A top shot of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State and former Deputy Chairman of Bende LGA of the State, Hon Promise Uzoma Okoro described as “undemocratic” the election of Hon Emmanuel Emeruwa and Hon Austin Meregini of Labour Party as Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 8th Abia State House of Assembly. Speaking to Journalists in Umuahia after the emergence of the Assembly Speaker and his Deputy, Uzoma Okoro 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 recognize further nominations immediately the alleged 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.”
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. He vowed to continue his criticism of the State government, saying that his position as a member of the opposition places him as a watchdog in the State.
