Speaker of Ebonyi State House Of Assembly Impeached

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Following a series of allegations ranging from fraudulent activities, incompetence and gross abuse of political office, Mr Ikechukwu Nwankwo, the Speaker of Ebonyi State House of Assembly, representing the North West constituency has been impeached.

This was an offshoot of petitions and increasing complaints from members of the House, and influential stakeholders in Ebonyi State. An intensive session lasting about 30 minutes saw 20 or 24 members of the State House of Assembly voting in favor of the impeachment of the ousted Speaker. In his place, Mr Chukwuma Nwanzunku was elected the new Speaker.   He represents the   Ebonyi North East constituency.

Mr Obasi Odefa, representing Onicha East constituency moved the motion for the impeachment.   This was seconded by Mr Kingsley Ikoro, the Chief whip and member representing Afikpo North East constituency.

Odefa's defense for the motion was that Nwankwo's conduct had begun to affect the smooth operations of the house, and other members were now uncomfortable. In his words: 'We have the responsibility of defending our integrity to ensure we discharge our duties to the people without hindrances'.