The speaker of the Kogi state house of assembly, Ahmed Umar, on Thursday said he was not afraid of being impeached as speculation emerged over the alleged plans of some members to remove him.
The protagonists of the alleged move were said to be plotting his impeachment for his alleged failure to align with some of the policies of the state governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.
But the members of the house unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the speaker, with some of the alleged masterminds saying they were not aware of the move.
Speaking at the resumed sitting of the house, the speaker said, “I am not afraid to be removed. When you think am not performing well, just approach me and I will tender my resignation letter.”
He however lauded his colleagues for the confidence repose in him, describing legislative arm as the fulcrum of democracy.
Moving the vote of confidence on the speaker, member representing Mopamuro state constituency, Abayomi Pedro, said the current leadership has helped to sustain the legislature as an indivisible entity.
He said, “Actions leading up to reconciliation and genuine desire for peaceful assembly as well as the conduct of the House will continue to be the essential reasons for me to appreciate leadership, and accordingly make a statement showing continuing support and approval for that individual that provides a rallying point and leadership.”
One of the lawmakers alleged to be behind the plot, Bello Hassan from Ajaokuta state constituency, said he was never part of any plot to remove Umar.
Hevsaid he only learnt of the development on social media.
Hassan said, “I Bello Hassan, member representing the people of Ajaokuta state constituency, knows nothing about such plans. This is completely the hand work of the enemies of Kogi State.”
The majority leader of the house, accused of planning to benefit from the move, Mathew Kolawole, from Kabba Bunu state constituency, also noted that he saw in a platform ‘Chat with the Speaker’ of his involvement to unseat the Umar
” I decided to take it personal because the speaker should have called me to verify if it was true. Where was the meeting held, that I Honourable Kolawole wants to become speaker?.
“My advice to you Mr speaker is that, you should not be carried away by all this encomiums, just keep on with your good work and we are here beside you.” he added.
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