Anambra State House Of Assembly has celebrated the one year anniversary of the 8th Assembly even as some law makers passed a vote of confidence on the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon Somtochukwu Udeze.
The lawmakers who said that the House of Assembly, in the last one year, has witnessed an exemplary and purposeful leadership, pledged their total support and good collaboration to ensure that the state witness unprecedented turnaround in line with the Governor Chukwuma Soludo policy thrust of evolving a liveable and prosperous homeland.
They noted that they have no regrets becoming lawmakers and unanimously electing Rt. Hon. Udeze as the Speaker of the House.
Hon. Innocent Ojike, Representing Oyi Constituency, praised the Speaker for inclusive leadership, carrying all members along regardless of party affiliation.
Hon. Ojike, who is the Chairman of the House Committee on Trade and Commerce, explained that he engaged stakeholders to ensure peace and harmonized levies in markets. He also revealed that they ensure revenue collection transparency.
While also noting that he has empowered many of his constituents with shuttle buses and motorcycles, fenced schools, and attracted development projects. He further urged continued support for Governor Soludo’s administration, working harmoniously with the legislature to deliver democracy dividends.
On his own part, Hon. Umennajiego, representing Onitsha South Constituency 2, praised the 8th Assembly for its cohesion, contributions, and constituency representation. He commended Speaker Udeze for his inclusive leadership and decorum.
According to him, he has delivered tangible benefits to his constituents, including town hall meetings, road rehabilitation, sports tournaments, mosquito fumigation, and scholarships for students.
His Onitsha North Constituency 1 Counterpart, Hon. Justice Azuka observed that despite joining the 8th Assembly in December 2023 after wining a long court process, he has co-sponsored three bills and over thirty motions so far.
He explained that he has also been able to sponsor some of his constituency for JAMB and WAEC examinations as well as co-sponsored schools inter-house sports, while also promising that much better days ahead.
Contributing, the Member representing Ogbaru Constituency 1, Hon. Igwe praised the 8th assembly for prioritizing plenary over executive sessions, unlike previous assemblies. He commended the Governor for signing 11 bills into law within a year, which he described as a rare feat.
Hon. Igwe, who is the Chairman, Public Accounts Committee, further hinted that his constituents in Okpoko are already benefiting from his representation, with improved roads and infrastructure from the Governor.
Contributing, the Member representing Orumba South Constituency, Hon. Nwafor described the lawmakers as vibrant, peace-loving, and dedicated to their constituents’ and Anambra’s development.
Being the Chairman of the Works Committee, he recounted some of his efforts towards ensuring that taxpayer money was utilized effectively through legislative oversight. He commended the House leadership and highlighted his achievements, including job creation, road constructions, boreholes, and school renovations, demonstrating his legislative impact.
Majority Leader, Mr. Ikenna Ofodeme, praised the lawmakers for their dedication to serving the state and constituents through sound legislation, stressing that since their inauguration, the 8th Assembly has collaborated with the Executive and Judicial arms to actualize plans for the people.
He commended the lawmakers for living up to their responsibilities, including making laws, oversight, and representation, despite having four different political parties; adding that over 12 bills have been passed, with 15 more undergoing scrutiny.
Also speaking, the Member representing Ekwusigo Constituency, Hon. Ofodeme, highlighted his achievements, including attracting development, creating job opportunities, and empowering individuals through monetary donations.
Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Okoye, hailed the 8th Assembly as progressive minds united in making Anambra great through legislative excellence, despite political differences.
He praised lawmakers for their commitment to supporting Governor Soludo’s vision through legislation and appropriations.
Mr Okoye boasted of unprecedented development and empowerment in his constituency, including cheques for business startups, a borehole in Nibo, a health post in Mbaukwu, and other attracted projects.
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze had earlier in a press briefing noted that the 8th Assembly will continue to remain focused and determined towards making Anambra a liveable prosperous homeland for all through legislative backings and support to the executive arm of government.
