Chaos as Imo speaker suspends PDP, APC lawmakers over ‘misconduct’

Paul Emeziam, speaker of the Imo house of assembly, has suspended six All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers.

The development led to a rowdy session at the state house of assembly on Thursday.

Emeziam said the action was taken against the lawmakers as a result of “unparliamentary conduct”.

The suspended members are Uche Ogbuagu (APC); Anyadike Nwosu, minority leader (PDP); Ezerioha Dominic (APC); Philip Ejiogu(PDP); Micheal Onyemaechi (APC) and Kennedy Ibe (APC).

Authur Egwim, chief whip of the house, was also removed and replaced by Obinna Okwara.

All standing committees of the house were also dissolved.

Reacting to the news of the suspension, the APC state chapter called for peace.

Cajetan Duke, publicity secretary of the APC in Imo, urged the suspended lawmakers to desist from acts capable of jeopardising their public image and the house.

Duke described the assembly as “an independent organ of government”, noting that as law abiding persons, the party would not only respect the independence of the assembly but also align with any decisions taken by its leadership.

“APC respects the independence of the house of assembly and supports any disciplinary measures that make for decorum.,” he said.

“We urge the suspended lawmakers to resolve issues using internal resolution mechanism.”

He said the nature of the suspension was an indication that it was not a case of political witch-hunt against any  party.