Crisis in Oshimili North Council as Legislators Impeach Leader, Deputy

The Oshimili North Legislative Arm in Delta State descended into turmoil on Friday following the impeachment of its Leader, Chris Nwamgbor, and Deputy Leader, Augustina Odogwu, over alleged gross misconduct.

In a dramatic session at the council chamber, councillors removed the duo and appointed the Chief Whip, Jeffery Mordi, as the new leader. Mordi had earlier moved the motion for their impeachment, with the House invoking Section 92, Subsection 2(c) of the 1999 Constitution to back its decision.

Tensions flared as Nwamgbor condemned the impeachment, describing it as an act driven by desperation. He alleged that the process was riddled with irregularities and marred by violence.

“You want to impeach a leader, you came with thugs. I was beaten up and the mace was not there.

The Clerk was forced to do what was not right because you want to be leader at all cost,” he said, claiming that the procedure fell short of legislative standards.

However, Mordi dismissed the allegations, insisting that the exercise followed due legislative process and that no thugs were brought into the council premises.

“We are 20 councillors; we impeached two. Sixteen signed, and the letter and paper were presented, so I don’t know the due process they are looking for again,” he stated.

“I personally moved the motion, and somebody seconded it. The mace was present when the motion was moved, and we were in our normal legislative session.”

The incident has deepened internal divisions within the Oshimili North Legislative Arm, raising concerns about governance stability in the local government area. Further reactions from stakeholders and the council’s executive arm are being awaited as the situation continues to unfold.