The Anambra State House of Assembly has summoned the member representing Ayamelum Constituency, Bernard Udemezue, over posts on social media alleging that his constituency was marginalised in constituency allowances.
The House, at its plenary on Tuesday, described the posts as “damaging content” and a threat to the image and safety of members.
Udemezue, elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, had shared posts alleging that Ayamelum Constituency was sidelined in the sharing of constituency allowances.
Moving a motion of urgent public importance, the member representing Aguata 2 Constituency, Tony Muobike, said Udemezue’s comments were “maliciously damaging the image of the House.”
He said, “One of our members, Hon. Bernard Udemezue, has been on social media, making comments that are maliciously damaging the image of this House. Most of the comments threaten the safety of the members of this eighth Assembly. It is a serious situation that should be investigated to avoid escalation.”
The motion was seconded by the Chief Whip, Jude Ngobili (Ihiala 1). Other members, including Emma Nwafor (Orumba South) and Deputy Majority Leader, Nobel Igwe (Ogbaru 1), backed the call, citing Order Seven of the House Standing Orders, which addresses abuse of legislative privilege.
They warned that Udemezue’s posts were capable of causing a breach of public peace and endangering colleagues’ lives.
Ruling on the matter, Speaker Somtochukwu Udeze referred it to the House Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics and Privileges, directing the committee to report back next Tuesday.
PUNCH
