Edo assembly impeaches speaker, deputy

Victor Edoror, speaker of the Edo state house of assembly, and Bright Osayande, his deputy, have been impeached.

The two presiding officers were impeached on Tuesday by 16 members of the assembly for “incompetence and gross misconduct”.

After the removal of both men, Elizabeth Ative was elected as speaker of the assembly.

According to NAN, the impeachment followed a motion moved by Folly Ogedemgbe (APC, Owan-east), majority leader,  which was seconded by Patrick Illuobe (PDP, Esan north-east).

“This is an impeachment notice signed by 16 members that the speaker Victor Edoroh and his deputy, are hereby impeached,” Ogedemgbe said during the house sitting.

Shortly after moving the motion, Ogedemgbe nominated Illuobe to preside over the election; and Illuobe called for nomination for a new speaker and deputy.

Ativie’s name was submitted as speaker by Victor Assen (APC, Owan-east), while Justin Okonobo (APC, Igueben) was nominated as deputy speaker by Henry Okhuobo (APC, Orhionmwon).

The two were subsequently approved to lead the house.

A mild drama ensued immediately after the new speaker took her seat, as the assembly’s chamber was invaded by thugs, forcing situation made security operatives to intervene as staff scampered for safety.