LP Caucus Condemns Suspension Of Anambra Lawmaker Over Criticism
Labour Party lawmakers from Anambra North Senatorial District have condemned the suspension of the member representing Ayamelum Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Abuchi Udemezue, describing the action as hasty and unjust.
In a statement on Thursday, jointly signed by Senator Tony Nwoye, Afam Ogene, Idu Emeka and Peter Aniekwe, the caucus accused the state government of orchestrating the suspension after Udemezue raised concerns about poor infrastructure and alleged misuse of local government funds in Ayamelum, a gas-producing area.
The lawmakers said, “Our democracy thrives on robust debate, constructive criticism and diversity of opinions. Silencing opposition voices through hasty suspension sets a dangerous precedent that should concern every Nigerian, regardless of party affiliation. We believe that Abuchi Udemezue was being gagged because he spoke against the illegal utilisation of local government funds belonging to his Ayamelum LGA.”
They added that instead of addressing issues of marginalisation and infrastructure decay, the House was reconvened during its annual recess to suspend Udemezue without a proper hearing.
“The suspension was carried out without adequate notice, undermining the element of natural justice embodied in the maxim ‘audi alteram partem’ – hear the other side. We expect the APGA-led Government under Prof. Chukwuma Soludo to address the pressing issues… irrespective of the unparliamentary and uncouth language used in his speeches and interviews,” the statement added.
The caucus argued that the suspension deprived Ayamelum constituents of representation and urged the Assembly leadership to revisit the decision, stressing that any disciplinary action should follow due process.
They further called on the state government to investigate Udemezue’s allegations instead of sweeping them under the carpet.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that the lawmaker was suspended for three months over critical remarks on social media, where he claimed his constituency was being marginalised in terms of constituency allowance.
He had also insisted that Ayamelum people, who contribute greatly to the state’s revenue, deserve better infrastructure and dividends of democracy.
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