The Anambra State House of Assembly has suspended Bernard Udemezue, the lawmaker representing Ayamelum Constituency, for a period of three months.
According to reports, Udemezue was suspended without pay during Tuesday’s plenary session over what was described as “unparliamentary conduct, inciting comments on social media, and abuse of legislative privileges.”
The suspension followed Udemezue’s disclosure in a WhatsApp group comprised mostly of his constituents, that he receives N10 million quarterly from the state government for constituency projects. The revelation reportedly angered other members of the Assembly.
The House Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics, and Privileges stated that Udemezue was initially summoned following a motion moved by Tony Muobike, member representing Aguata 2, and seconded by Jude Ngobili, member for Ihiala 1 and Chief Whip.
In its report, signed by Ofodeme Ikenna and 10 other members, the committee said Udemezue failed to honour the invitation to clarify the allegations. Instead, he allegedly ridiculed the process by posting the invitation in a WhatsApp group alongside a song an act the committee deemed disrespectful.
The report also cited several petitions against Udemezue, including allegations of intimidation, threats to colleagues, unlawful interference, and misconduct during his tenure as Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland and Boundary Affairs.
The committee recommended that Udemezue issue a public apology to the Speaker and members of the Assembly both in writing and via social media. It also advised that he undergo mandatory training on parliamentary ethics.
He is barred from entering the Assembly complex for the duration of his suspension.
Reacting to the decision, Udemezue claimed he was being targeted for exposing corruption within the Assembly. He maintained that his posts, which revealed lawmakers receive N10 million quarterly for constituency projects, were intended to inform the public.
The House committee further urged the Anambra State Commissioner of Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate Udemezue’s claims of an alleged murder plot.
“The actions of Bernard Udemezue have affected and dented the image of the legislature. This House cannot condone behaviours that undermine our collective integrity,” the committee concluded.
