Gov. Martin Elechi
The Deputy Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Hon. Valentine Okike, was on Thursday removed from office over alleged improper dressing to official functions.
The embattled lawmaker was also accused of insubordination, and promotion of disaffection among members.
His removal came through a motion by the member representing Ezza South, Hon. Chris Usulor, who alleged that Okike committed acts which negated the corporate existence of the House.
He said: “The Deputy Speaker is fond of committing gross insubordination against the leadership of the house, causing disaffection among members, and dressing improperly to official functions.
“He even wears ‘boxer shorts’ to functions among other acts which negates the exalted office he swore an official oath to protect.
“This motion is in consonance with section 92 sub section 2C of the 1999 constitution. It stipulates that a Speaker or Deputy Speaker of the House shall be removed from office with a 2/3 majority votes”.
The motion was seconded by Hon. Frank Onwe, representing Ohaukwu North. The Speaker, Hon. Chukwuma Nwazunku, later put the motion into voice vote, and it was supported by majority of the members.
The Speaker in his remarks, said that the Deputy Speaker, after being impeached was again suspended as a member for two weeks, adding that “a committee will be constituted to thoroughly look into this matter and report back to the House accordingly before subsequent actions will be taken”.
Very quickly, Hon. Blaise Orji, representing Afikpo South East constituency was nominated and endorsed by members as the new Deputy Speaker.
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