Ebonyi assembly lifts suspension on two members

The Ebonyi State House of Assembly on Thursday lifted the suspension placed on two of its members, Lilian Igwe and Valentine Okike.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the action followed the adoption of recommendations of the two committees set up by the house to investigate both cases.
Igwe (PDP-Ivo) was suspended on June 4, 2012 on allegations of drinking to stupor during a function, thereby bringing the house in disrepute.
Okike (PDP-Onicha West) and former Deputy Speaker, was suspended on March 14 for alleged gossiping, indecent dressing and causing disaffection among members.
Kingsley Okoro (PDP Afikpo South West) and Deputy Chairman of the Committee that investigated Igwe’s case, said the committee’s independent investigations showed she was guilty of the alleged offences.
“The testimony of those invited by the committee attested to this fact, as she also accepted being guilty of the misconduct,” he said.
He, however, appealed to the House to forgive her, adding that she had shown signs of remorse through the three apology letters she sent to the committee during its investigation.
“She should, however, be conscious of her behaviour as she is representing the image of the House, her constituency and that of womanhood,” he said.
Julius Nwokpor (PDP-Ishiellu South) and Chairman of the committee investigating Okike’s case, said that the committee discovered that he actually involved himself in the act of gossip.
Nwokpor said: “Considering the fact that he has shown sufficient remorse, the committee recommends that his suspension be lifted to enable him join his colleagues in the act of legislation.
“His impeachment as the Deputy Speaker of the House should, however, remain irreversible.”
Samuel Nwali (PDP-Ikwo North) and House Leader, moved the motion for the lifting of their suspension and was seconded by Chike Ogiji (Ikwo South).
The members accepted the motion as the Speaker, Hon. Chukwuma Nwazunku, directed the House Clerk to communicate the resolution to relevant authorities.
The two suspended members were directed to read their letters of apology to the House when it dissolved into a committee of the whole.