Edo deputy speaker seizes mace in impeachment proceedings

Drama followed the impeached of Edo state assembly’s deputy speaker Victor Edoro, after the embattled speaker seized the House mace.

Armed security, comprising Department of State Security, Police and  Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) took over the House premises from as early as 8 am.

Men suspected to be political thugs also positioned themselves at strategic spots within the premises.

The presence of the security personnel it was gathered was to forestall alleged possible impeachment of the Speaker of the House, Kabiru Adjoto, representing Akoko-Edo I,  over alleged legal suit instituted against APC as a result of the alleged substitution  of his name with that of Peter Akpatason by the national leadership of the party.

Immediately the plenary commenced, the Chief Whip of the House, Osaigbovo Iyoha (APC), representing Oredo East constituency moved a motion for the impeachment of the deputy speaker,  over alleged misappropriation of funds, corruption and act of desperation tantamount to causing division in the house.

Iyoha alleged that the  impeachment letter was signed by 16 members of the House.

The impeachment motion was however seconded by Emmanuel Agbaje, (APC), representing Akoko-Edo II.

Meanwhile, member representing Owan East constituency, Foly Ogedengbe (APC), moved a counter-motion but was not recognised by the Speaker.

Infuriated by the action of the Speaker, Ogedengbe, then accused the Speaker of the House, Kabiru Adjoto of misappropriating N100 funds belonging to the house.

As the argument raged on  the embattled deputy speaker seized the mace of the house but was overpowered.

Thereafter, the Speaker Adjoto, announced the suspension of the impeached deputy speaker, Foly Ogedengbe and Gani Audu (APC), representing Etsako West I, over what he described as unruly behaviour for three months respectively.

The House Majority Leader, Roland Asoro, then nominated the former speaker of the house, Justine Okonoboh, as the new deputy speaker and seconded by Emmnauel Agbaje.

As soon as the house adjourned plenary, suspected thugs armed with sticks invaded the premises apparently to attack Foly Ogedengbe who moved a counter motion but failed in their attempt.