The political crisis in Kogi state has taken a new dimension as two members of the state’s House of Assembly are laying claim to the position of speaker in the house.
Momoh Jimoh-Lawal, the speaker of the state assembly was reportedly impeached on Thursday, December 10, alongside his deputy, Aliyu Aku and minority leader, Hassan Bello.
He was said to have been replaced by Hon. Godwin Osiyi representing Ogori-magongo was reportedly elected as the new speaker while Hon. James Eneche from Olamaboro is the new minority leader.
Lawal has however insisted that he still remains the authentic speaker.
Speaking during a chat with journalists in Lokoja, the state capital on Thursday, December 12, he stated that the move to hijack the leadership of the assembly by some few members was unpatriotic and at variance with the legislative practice and principle all over the world.
Lawal informed the journalists that he is still in firm control of the assembly, adding that he has written to the Commissioner of Police in the state that the assembly complex should not be opened until Tuesday, Fecruary 2, 2016.
He called on members of the house to remain focused and be committed to the ideals of the founding fathers of the state.
He said: “It is important to let the public know that though Ukwubile Achanu Ochejenunu of Idah Constituency attempted to move an impeachment motion with some other members”.
The speaker added that when the attempt was made to impeach the principal officers, there was chaos in the house, noting that a peace loving leader quickly adjourned till February 2, 2016.
But on Thursday, December 10, members of Kogi State House of Assembly while addressing journalists in Lokoja, insisted that Lawal has been impeached as the speaker and replaced by Godwin Osiyi.
BY AMUDA DAN SULAIMAN FAB
