UPDATE: Bayelsa speaker steps down

The Bayelsa State House of Assembly, in accordance with the standing order of the House, has elected Hon. Abraham Ingobere as the new Speaker of the House, following the stepping aside of Rt. Hon. Monday Bubou- Obolo.

Hon. Ingobere, the Deputy Speaker of the 5th Assembly, took over from Bubou-Obolo, who stepped down because the new Governor of the state, Senator Douye Diri, is from his Central Senatorial District, comprising Southern Ijaw, Yenagoa and Kolokuma/Opokuma LGAs.

It could be recalled that Bubou-Obolo took over from Rt. Hon. Tonye Isenah, who was impeached from office under controversial circumstances in November 2019.

In his acceptance speech, Rt. Hon. Ingobere expressed gratitude to members of the House for counting him worthy to lead the House.

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He stated that having been saddled with the responsibilities of piloting the affairs of the House, irrespective of party affiliations and ideological differences, he would not betray the confidence reposed on him.

The Speaker also entreated the House to work in synergy with the Executive so as to achieve the collective objectives in the interest of Bayelsa state.

In the same vein, the House has appointed Hon. Michael Ogbere, member representing Ekeremor constituency 3, as the Deputy Speaker of the House.

Also, Hon. Monday Obolo, representing Southern Ijaw constituency 2, was made Majority leader of the House, and Hon. Ebiuwou Obiyai, representing Yenagoa constituency 2 was made Chief Whip.

In addition, while Hon. Bernard Kenibai, member representing Sagbama constituency 2, became the Deputy Leader and Hon. Munalayefa Gipson, representing Ogbia constituency 2, was made the Deputy Whip.

The former Speaker, Rt. Hon. Monday Bubou-Obolo, while stepping aside, thanked all members of the House for the cooperation accorded him throughout his tenure.

He expressed gratitude for the opportunity given him to lead the House since 20th September 2019.

According to him, he learnt a great deal, working with his equals, and was humbled, knowing that the privilege to serve was not based on the fact that he knew better than anyone else.

The former Speaker used the privilege to implore the House to accord the new Speaker all necessary cooperation and assistance to achieve great success.