Ihim, Ozuruigbo to lead Imo lawmakers, as Abia Assembly takes off

After weeks of political maneuverings, the hitherto 27 members-elect of the Imo State House of Assembly, yesterday, settled their squabble, electing a returning member under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and representing Okigwe Constituency, Acho Ihim, Speaker and Ugonna Ozuruigbo, Deputy Speaker for the 8th Assembly, 3rd House, respectively.

Ihim, a former Deputy Majority Leader of the 7th Assembly, 3rd House, took his oath of office and allegiance at about 12.30 p.m. and Ozuruigbo took his at 1 p.m.

The duo hail from Imo North senatorial district of the state, were nominated and returned unopposed.

The Guardian gathered that the Speakership post had been under contest between Ihim and Chinedu Offor, a former staff of The Guardian and a known loyalist of Governor Rochas Okorocha. He is of the APC member, representing Onuimo Constituency.

Sources said the governor waded into the matter last night when the members allegedly had nocturnal meeting with him in Owerri.

Ike Amuka (APC Ideato South) nominated Ihim, while Ifeanyichukwu Duruji (Ehime constituency), seconded the nomination. For Ozuruigbo, Dr. Uche Oguike (Ikeduru constituency) made the nomination and was seconded by Ngozi Obiefule (Isu constituency). Both hold Bachelor degrees in Government and Public Administration and have been in the assembly since 2011.

The Speaker immediately differed the elections of other principal officers’ to the next legislative sitting (Tuesday, June 16).

Okorocha addressed the House in a short speech, pledging to work with the elected principal officer and the legislators.

While promising to provide enabling environment for them to thrive, the governor solicited their cooperation.

In his acceptance speech, Ihim noted that there were enormous challenges to tackle, adding that stabilizing relationships and observance of the rules of the house, including extant laws, would be top priority.

Stressing that the independence of the legislature would not be compromised, he solicited for the cooperation of fellow members.