I’ll not tolerate excuses, Abia Gov’ Otti warns, as he inaugurates 8th Assembly
By Charity Uwakwe, Abia
Governor Alex Otti, of Abia State has charged the newly constituted members of State House of Assembly to always consider the interest of their Constituents while performing their duties, saying the anticipation of the masses is high.
Governor Otti who insisted that his administration would not contend with lapses, whatsoever, stressed he would, in collaboration with members of the 8th Assembly, provide dividends of democracy to Abians.
Otti stated this when he inaugurated the 8th assembly at chamber of the State Assembly yesterday, Wednesday, reiterating that; “I’ll not tolerate excuses. The expectations of Abia people are high. We’ll collectively provide dividends of democracy to Abians”, he assured.
The inauguration had Hon. Emmanuel Ihuoma Emeruwa a first time Legislator and member of the ruling party, Labour Party (LP) emerge unopposed as Speaker of the House.
In his remarks, the newly elected Speaker and member representing Aba South State Constituency, expressed profound gratitude to all who facilitated his emergence as Speaker.
Addressing his colleagues after he was sworn in by the Clerk, Mr John Pedro Irokansi, Emeruwa said he will take the House to a higher pedestal, adding that some reforms are in the offering.
Moreso, the 24-man assembly also elected Austin Nmeregini (LP, Umuahia East) the Deputy Speaker.
The Speaker appreciated God for the opportunity and saluted Governor Otti, the Labour Party and members of his constituency for their support while thanking his colleagues in the House for electing him as Speaker.
He pledged to lead the House without prejudice but rather to serve with unwavering dedication while promising to legislate good laws that would impact positively on the people.
Meanwhile, inspite of the majority status of the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) which has 11 members against LP’s 10, the lawmakers unanimously agreed to pick a Labour Party Legislator as Speaker.
Meanwhile, both the Young Progressive Party (YPP) and All Progressive Congress (APC) have two members and one member respectively.
