Imo lawmakers Tuesday, elected Hon Lawman Duruji representing Ehime Mbano state constituency as speaker to replace Rt. Hon. Acho Ihim who officially resigned from his position following a misunderstanding that ensued between him and his fellow lawmakers some days back.
The election of new speaker was conducted after Ihim reached an agreement with his colleagues that he would resign officially.
Also elected as deputy speaker was Hon Chika Madumere representing Nkwerre state constituency who defeated three others to get the position.
Hon Duruji had defeated Hon. Chinedu Offor of Onuimo state constituency 14-11 to emerge speaker, while Madumere who would replace already resigned deputy speaker, Hon Ugonna Ozuruigbo of Nwangele state constituency had polled 11 votes to defeat Hon. Ngozi Obiefule of Isu state constituency 9 votes; Hon. Henry Ezediaro of Oguta state constituency 3 votes; and Hon. Uju Onwudiwe of Njaba state constituency 2 votes.
Speaking with newsmen after the exercise, the victorious lawmakers thanked their colleagues for finding them worthy to be elected into those positions and promised to discharge their duties to the best of their abilities.
Duruji went a step further to assure that his leadership would work with Chief Emeka Ihedioha who would take over the mantle of leadership in a few hours’ time for the benefit of the state.
The new leadership of the House which adjourned plenary to June 4, would expire on June 6, this year to pave way for the next assembly.
