Imo Assembly Lifts Suspension Of former Speaker Paul Emeziem, Others

The Imo House of Assembly on Tuesday lifted the suspension of a former Speaker Paul Emeziem (APC Onuimo).

The Assembly made the decision on Tuesday following the recommendations of the four-man committee set up to investigate the allegations, which led to his suspension on November 8, 2021.

Members of the committee are: Kanayo Onyemaechi (APC Owerri West); Frank Ugboma (PDP Oguta); Emeka Nduka (APC Ehime Mbano) and Johnson Duru (APC-Ideato South).

The report, which was treated at a committee of the Assembly presided over by Speaker Kennedy Ibeh, stated that Emeziem had admitted guilt and apologised for his actions.

Emeziem was suspended with Orsu representative, Mr Ekene Nnodumele (APC Orsu) for gross misconduct.

The Nation further recalls that Nnodumele on November 2, 2021 presented a document purportedly signed by 18 members calling for removal of Deputy Speaker, Amarachi Iwuanyanwu (APC Nwangele).

This led to the speaker’s impeachment.and suspension on November 8, 2021.

The Assembly also lifted the suspension of the Isu representative, Ngozi Obiefule (APC) who was suspended on December 23, 2021 for alleged dereliction of duty.

The Speaker stated that Obiefule had apologised for her offence and returned to the full service of the Assembly.

Obiefule was suspended on the day the budget was presented following her absence at the sitting.

However, she told the Nation that she attended the burial ceremony of Uche Nwosu’s mother after she had submitted her report for the day.