According to a release from the Office of the Speaker, Ehie also suspended some members of the house, accusing them of falling short of principles.
The former Majority leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Edison Ehie, has emerged as the new Speaker of the state Assembly.
According to a release from the Office of the Speaker, Ehie also suspended some members of the house, accusing them of falling short of principles.
SaharaReporters earlier today reported that the rift between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Nyesom Wike who is currently the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), created tension and reached a crescendo in Rivers State with the plot by members of the State House of Assembly to impeach the governor.
The tension degenerated on Sunday night with the fire outbreak at the State House of Assembly.
The fire incident was described by some people in government as an arson attack by the Majority Leader of the House, Edison Ehie, to prevent the impeachment of the governor.
This led to the removal of Edie as the Majority Leader of the Assembly on Monday morning, as he was blamed for causing the fire incident.
SaharaReporters earlier reported that Governor Fubara while addressing his supporters in Port Harcourt on Monday on the plans by the state Assembly to impeach him, said that he did not commit any offence to warrant impeachment. He warned that any attempt to remove him through impeachment that is not justified will be resisted.
Meanwhile, in the release after he emerged speaker, Ehie said, “I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits. Today, I stand before you as the newly elected Speaker of the 10th Assembly of Rivers State House of Assembly, humbled by the trust you have placed in me to lead our great state.
“It is with a heavy heart and a deep sense of responsibility that I address you regarding recent events in our esteemed Assembly. As your chosen representatives, we have a sacred duty to uphold the values of integrity, accountability, and dedication to public service.
“Regrettably, it has come to my attention that some members of our Assembly have fallen short of these principles. In light of their actions, which undermine the trust and faith you have bestowed upon us, I have taken the difficult decision to suspend the defaulted members from their legislative duties.
“Rest assured, this decision was not made lightly. We are committed to ensuring that the Rivers State House of Assembly continues to be a beacon of hope and progress for all our people. We will work tirelessly to restore your trust in our institution and fulfill the promises we made to you.
“I urge you, my fellow citizens, to remain steadfast in your support for a united and prosperous Rivers State. Together, we will overcome challenges and build a future where honesty, accountability, and transparency prevail.”