By Uzoma Akobundu
The speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, Acho Ihim is walking a tight rope as he may face suspension from the All Progressive Congress (APC) and even removal from his position over unilateral removal of the Majority leader and alleged impeachment plot against the Deputy Governor of the State, Eze Madumere.
The Imo APC has therefore expressed surprise over the unilateral removal of the Majority leader of Imo State House of Assembly,Uche Oguike, saying the responsibility is the prerogative of the party.
In a release on Saturday signed by the State Chairman of the APC, Dr. Hillary Eke, the party declared the removal of Oguike as unconstitutional and aberration to the rule of law.
He recalled that on December 4, 2017, the Party exercised such responsibility through a letter titled: “Withdrawal and Replacement of two Principal officers of the House.”
It also frowned at the alleged impeachment plot against the Deputy Governor, Madumere by some members of Imo State House of Assembly, describing it as ungodly mission, while urging them to desist from such.
His words: “The attention of the State executive has been drawn to the news making the rounds that Imo State House of Assembly intends to initiate an impeachment process against the Deputy Governor of the state, His Excellency, Prince Eze Madumere.
“We wish to advise anyone involved in this ungodly mission to desist as such news is not healthy as this point in time the party is making concerted effort to unite. You may recall that Mr. President, Alhaji Mohammadu Buhari has recently appointment Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as the Chairman of Peace and reconciliation Committee to that effect.”
He described Madumere as a man of honour and outstanding personality who has served the government and the people meritoriously.
He said like any other Imolite, the Deputy Governor has the right to vie for any elective position.
Eke added: “As responsible executive, we cannot allow financial inducement to undermine our sense of responsibility and integrity. The APC in Imo state as we all know is committed to providing level playing ground for all aspirants. The party therefore frowns at any form of victimization to subdue one aspirant to the advantage of another using our privileged position. Let me remind us of the saying that when you point one finger at someone, the remaining four point back to you.”
He appealed to all Imo citizens, especially APC family to remain calm and focused and stressed that they cannot be brewing violence at this time so as not to mar the ongoing national congresses as approved by the National Working Committee.
“The APC in the State remains one big strong indivisible family that abhors intimidation. We are bonded in unity and together we shall overcome and conquer,” he said.