Chike Olemgbe, a newcomer to the world of legislation, has emerged as the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly. This accomplishment was made possible by a crucial decision taken by the Imo lawmakers in 2011 when they decided to amend their rules, allowing for the appointment of a first-time lawmaker as Speaker. During the assembly’s inauguration on Friday, Olemgbe’s nomination faced no opposition.
Amara Iwuanyanwu, who previously served as the Deputy Speaker in the ninth assembly, was re-elected unopposed to the same position in the state’s 10th Assembly. Iwuanyanwu represents the Nwangele Constituency.
At the inaugural event held in the esteemed chambers of the Imo State House of Assembly in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, Olemgbe was nominated by Azodo Vitalis, the representative of Ideato South State Constituency. The motion was seconded by Obodo Augustine, the representative of Owerri Municipal.
This marks Chike Olemgbe’s first foray into legislative work within the State House of Assembly. Both the Speaker, Chike Olemgbe, and his deputy, Amara Iwuanyanwu, are members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
What are your thoughts on the appropriateness of electing first-time lawmakers as Speakers?
