Anambra Assembly Suspends Lawmaker Over Alleged Misconduct

The Anambra State House of Assembly has suspended Bernard Udemezue, the member representing Ayamelum Constituency, for three months without pay.

The suspension was announced by the House Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics, and Privileges, following allegations of misconduct, including inciting comments on social media and abuse of legislative privileges.

Udemezue was accused of posting on social media that his constituency was being marginalized in terms of constituency allowances. However, the House Committee found him guilty of unparliamentary conduct, citing his failure to honor an invitation to clarify the allegations.

Instead, he allegedly mocked the process by sharing the invitation on WhatsApp with a song.

The committee also highlighted multiple petitions against Udemezue, including allegations of intimidation, threats, and misconduct during his tenure as Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland and Boundary Affairs.

As part of his suspension, Udemezue is required to tender a public apology to the Speaker and members of the Assembly, both in writing and via social media, and undergo compulsory training on parliamentary ethics.

Reacting to his suspension, Udemezue claimed he was being victimized for exposing corruption in the Assembly. He stated that his social media posts, which revealed that lawmakers receive N10 million quarterly for constituency projects, were intended to keep his constituents informed.

The suspension has sparked outrage among Ayamelum youths, who vowed to resist the decision. They claim that Udemezue’s suspension is a result of his efforts to expose corruption in the Assembly. The House Committee has also called on security agencies to investigate Udemezue’s claims concerning alleged plots and murder.