Legislative Council suspends Vice Chairman amid allegations of misconduct, absenteeism

Chinedum Ukaegbu

Ezinihite Mbaise Legislative Council in Imo State has announced the indefinite suspension of the Vice Chairman of the council, Hon. Prince Matthew Igbokwe, following allegations of misconduct and other related concerns.

According to the Special Assistant on Media/Publicity to the Executive Chairman, Ezinihite Mbaise Local Government Area, Hon. T.C. Nwamaghiro, the decision was reached during a plenary session held on Monday and presided over by the Leader of the Council, Rt. Hon. Deaconess Mbechi Benson, who represents Ife/Chokoneze/Akpodim Ward 12.

According to the council, the suspension was based on several allegations, including absenteeism from official duties and alleged unauthorized travel outside the state without prior approval from the legislative authorities.

The council further cited allegations linking the Vice Chairman to criminal activities, including claims of involvement in armed robbery and other offences.

It was alleged that he had been arrested and detained by the Lagos State Police Command, though no official police confirmation was provided at the time of the council’s sitting.

Lawmakers also accused the Vice Chairman of conduct considered capable of bringing embarrassment and public ridicule to the administration of Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, as well as the Executive Chairman of Ezinihite Mbaise Local Government Area, Hon. Sir Ambrose Chinedum Nwachukwu.

They described the alleged actions as unbecoming of someone occupying the office of Vice Chairman, stating that such conduct had negatively impacted the image of the local government and its leadership.

The motion for suspension was moved by Hon. Ajaa Echezolachi, the Chief Whip and representative of Onicha Ward IV. It was supported by Hon. Steven Echeta, Deputy Leader and representative of Eziudo Ward 8, and seconded by Hon. Vincent Kelechi Egwurugwu, the Majority Leader representing Amumara Ward 1. The motion was unanimously adopted by members present.

Following the resolution, the council issued a seven-day ultimatum to Hon. Igbokwe to appear before the House to respond to the allegations against him. Lawmakers described the directive as part of an ongoing process that could lead to further disciplinary measures, including possible impeachment proceedings.

The leadership of the council stated that the action was taken in line with relevant constitutional provisions and standing legislative rules guiding local government administration.

They added that the decision was necessary to safeguard the integrity of the council and restore public confidence in governance within the area.

The council also emphasized that the move was aimed at protecting the image of Ezinihite Mbaise and ensuring accountability in public office.

Those present at the sitting included:
Rt. Hon. Deaconess Mbechi Benson – Leader of Council; Hon. Steven Echeta – Deputy Leader; Hon. Vincent Kelechi Egwurugwu – Majority Leader; Hon. Ajaa Echezolachi – Chief Whip; Hon. Donald Chiwendu Alozie; Hon. Ekwueme Chinedu; Hon. Sylvester Nwokie; Hon. Austin Eguzoro; Hon. Thedius Madukwe and Hon. Echegini Stanley.

Also, Clerk of the House, Nwagbara Ijeoma; Sergeant-at-Arms, Nwanna Sampson C.; and Recorder, Ogbuanu Precious C.