By CHARLES IWUOHA

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State and former Deputy Chairman of Bende Local Government Area, Hon Promise Uzoma Okoro, has condemned what he described as “undemocratic” election of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker of the 8th Abia State House of Assembly.

Addressing journalists on Wednesday in Umuahia, Uzoma wondered why it was difficult for Governor Dr Alex Otti to reach a compromise with members of the opposition in the 8th Assembly which he said would have saved the state from avoidable embarrassment.

He condemned the alleged refusal of the clerk, Mr John Pedro Irokansi to recognise further nominations immediately the preferred candidates of Governor Alex Otti were nominated and their nominations seconded.

“What happened today is a pure rape of democracy; it is more worrisome that it happened under the watch of Governor Alex Otti who swore to protect the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“First, the standing rule of the Abia State House of Assembly is against electing a non-ranking member as Speaker and Deputy Speaker.

“The whole world has seen what we have been shouting that the current administration in Abia State won’t allow opposing voices, but we will resist it because opposition is the beauty of democracy.

“First, the Governor failed to issue proclamation for the Inauguration of the House on the 10th of June, but rather secretly brought a letter this morning dated 13th June 2023. The events that played out under his watchful eyes are undemocratic and shameful to say the least.

“I am calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to place a special watch on the activities of the present Abia State Government; let the government be reminded that we are in democracy and not autocracy, the provisions of the law must always prevail at all times,” he said.

Uzoma celebrated the courage of the member representing Obingwa East State Constituency, Hon Solomon Akpulonu for his bravery and courage to speak when it was necessary.

It was gathered that the House of Assembly on Wednesday elected Hon Emmanuel Emeruwa, member representing Aba South State Constituency as the Speaker, while Hon Okezie Meregini was elected as Deputy Speaker amid protests.

They are both members of LP, whereas the PDP enjoys the majority in the Assembly.

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