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By Oscar Okhifo
The Anambra State House of Assembly has suspended the member representing Ayamelum Constituency, Hon. Bernard Udemezue, for three months without pay over alleged unparliamentary conduct, inciting social media comments, and abuse of legislative privileges.
The suspension, announced on Tuesday, followed the adoption of a report by the House Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics, and Privileges.
Udemezue was accused of posting on social media that his constituency was being marginalised in the distribution of constituency allowances. He also alleged that lawmakers receive N10 million quarterly for constituency projects.
The matter was first raised through a motion sponsored by Tony Muobike (Aguata 2) and seconded by Chief Whip, Jude Ngobili (Ihiala 1), prompting the House to summon Udemezue for clarification.
According to the committee’s report, signed by Chairman Ofodeme Ikenna and 10 other members, the lawmaker failed to honour the invitation. Instead, he allegedly ridiculed the process by sharing the letter of invitation on WhatsApp alongside a song, an act the committee described as disrespectful.
The report further cited multiple petitions against him, ranging from intimidation and threats to colleagues to alleged unlawful interference and misconduct during his tenure as Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland and Boundary Affairs.
As part of the sanctions, Udemezue was directed to tender a public apology to the Speaker and members of the Assembly in writing and on social media.
He is also required to undergo compulsory training on parliamentary ethics and is barred from entering the Assembly Complex throughout his suspension.
Reacting, Udemezue said his suspension was an act of victimisation for exposing corruption in the Assembly. He insisted that his posts were meant to inform his constituents about how public funds were being spent.
“Youths from Ayamelum have expressed outrage over the suspension,” said John Udemezue, a local youth leader. “We know our lawmaker was suspended because he exposed the rot in the Assembly. We will react to this development very soon.”
The committee also urged the Anambra State Police Commissioner and the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate Udemezue’s allegations, including claims of political plots and the murder of the late Justice Azuka.
“The actions of Bernard Udemezue have dented the image of the legislature. This House cannot condone behaviours that undermine our collective integrity,” the committee concluded.