On Monday in Owerri, the Imo House of Assembly elected its fourth speaker in four years.

The previous speaker, Mr. Kennedy Ibe (APC-Obowo), has been replaced as the new speaker by Mr. Emeka Nduka (APC-Ehime Mbano).

The two predecessors to Ibe were both removed from office in 2020 and 2021, respectively.
Following the impeachment of Mr. Paul Emeziem (APC-Onuimo) for forgery and haughtiness, Ibe was sworn in as speaker on November 8, 2021.

After Dr. Collins Chiji (APC-Isiala Mbano) was impeached for improper behavior and gross misconduct in November 2020, Emeziem succeeded him.

Chiji, however, requested that his impeachment be removed from the legislative records and replaced with a resignation, and the House granted his request.

Monday’s special meeting was held behind closed doors, and the Deputy Speaker, Mr. Amarachi Iwuanyanwu (APC-Nwangele), presided. After reading Ibe’s letter of resignation, he called for nominations.

Dr. Uju Onwudiwe seconded Mr. Kanayo Onyemaechi’s (APC-Owerri West) nomination of Nduka as the majority leader (APC-Njaba).

Ibe’s resignation was without explanation.