Former majority leader emerges RSHA Speaker

By Precious Akutamadu

The Rivers State House of Assembly (RSHA) has elected Edison Ehie as its Speaker.

Ehie emerged on Monday after 26 members of the assembly elected him during plenary, following the suspension of some key officers of the house.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the new speaker emerged after the impeachment of Martins Amaehule, his predecessor, by 26 members of the house.

Ehie, while briefing newsmen shortly after his emergence, thanked his colleagues for rising to the challenge and finding him worthy to pilot the affairs of the legislature.

Ehie promised to discharge his duty without fear or favour and to uphold principles of equity, justice and fairness.

“My commitment to Rivers people is that I will be just and fair to all and sundry; I will ensure that the rule of law takes its course.

“I will not betray my colleagues. I will not betray Rivers people. I will not betray my constituency.

“I will ensure the independence of the Rivers State House of Assembly is adhered to, with mutual respect for the judiciary and executive arms of government,” he said.

The new speaker said that he would give fair hearing to suspended members of the House through the Committee on Petitions.

Ehie also announced that the House had adjourned sine dine, following a circular served by the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), to commence an indefinite nationwide strike. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Janefrances Oraka and Ephraims Sheyin