Confusion in Edo as lawmakers impeach Deputy Speaker

Suspected political thugs on Monday invaded Edo State House of Assembly following the impeachment of the deputy speaker, Hon Victor Edoror.

The member representing Owan East and Etsako West 11 constituencies, Folly Ogedegbe and Gani Audu were also suspended for three months respectively over alleged unruly behaviour.

Former speaker of the House, Justin Okonobo, representing Igueben constituency was thereafter nominated as the new deputy speaker.

Chief Whip of the House, Osaigbovo Iyoha, who drew the attention of the House to the impeachment notice purportedly signed by 16 members, accused the deputy speaker of misappropriation of funds, corruption and act of desperation capable of throwing the House into confusion.

The impeachment motion was seconded by the member reperesenting Akoko Edo constituency 11, Emmanuel Agbale, amidst chaos.

The plenary was however thrown into confusion when the embattled deputy speaker rushed for the mace and laid hold to it for over 40 minutes, an aftermath of unfruitful attempt to move a counter motion of impeachment against the speaker.

The speaker equally refused to recognise Foly Ogedegbe, who in a counter motion, accused him of embezzling N100million fund belonging to the House.

Meanwhile, it took the effort of the security men, mainly riot policemen, who were stationed at the three entrance gates to the assembly as early as 7 am from stopping the fierce looking thugs armed with dangerous weapons from attacking the anti-speaker lawmakers.

Addressing the crowd, the speaker, Kabiru Adjoto, appreciated the thugs for coming to defend democracy.

He said: ‘’ I will always be loyal to the APC. The interest of the state is much greater than the interest of an individual. As APC members, we are working hard to ensure President Buhari wins come 2019”