Chika Nwabueze
Engr. Chinedu Orji, the scion of the Orji family and member representing Umuahia Central state constituency has emerged the speaker of the 7th Abia State House of Assembly following his nomination and unanimous vote by the 24-member House.
News Critic reports that the Abia state assembly was inaugurated today after the governor Dr Okezie Ikpeazu issued the proclamation for the dissolution of the 6th house of assembly. Following the inauguration of the new house, the Clerk of the House called for nomination for the post of speaker and Hon. Alozie representing Ugwunagbo state constituency nominated Hon. Orji, while Ginger representing Isiala-Ngwa North seconded the nomination.
In a voice vote, all the members elected Hon. Orji also called Ikuku as the new speaker, while Hon. Uchenna Idika representing Ohafia south constituency became the deputy speaker. Both Orji and Idika emerged unopposed as speaker and deputy speaker respectively.
In his inaugural address, Rt. Hon. Orji thanked the members for the honour bestowed on him and assured that he will do his best not to disappoint. He said he will roll out his agenda for the house.
It is expected that the new house will at plenary consider the commissioner nominee, Chief J.O.Kalu. Also it is expected that the majority and minority leaders of the house will be decided by the party caucus.
Present at the inauguration were the Deputy Governor, Ude Oko Chukwu, former speakers Enweremadu, Alwell Asiforo, Uzo Azubuike, Emeka Stanley, Chidiebere Nwoke, Ndukwe Adindu,former commissioner Chief Charles Ogbonnaya, and PDP state chairman Chief Johnson Onuigbo, Chief Donatus Nwankpa APC Chairman and former minority leader among others.
