Abia Assembly Orders Deputy Governor to Address Assault on Lawmaker

The Abia State House of Assembly has directed the state’s Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, to apologize over his alleged involvement in the assault of Kalu Mba Nwoke, the lawmaker representing Ohafia South constituency.

The decision came after a motion was raised by Godwin Adiele, the member for Ukwa West constituency, who emphasized that the issue was not personal but about preserving the dignity of the House. Adiele stressed the importance of maintaining the sanctity of the Assembly.

Solomon Akpulonu, representing Obingwa East constituency, supported the motion, expressing disappointment over the incident and underscoring the need for mutual respect between the three arms of government. Akpulonu, the most senior member of the Assembly, also urged colleagues to handle matters with maturity, even in the face of provocation.

In a statement to the press in Umuahia, Nwoke explained that the assault occurred during the November 2 local council elections at the Ohafia LGA headquarters. He said the attack followed his request for the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission’s result sheets prior to the election.

Nwoke, reflecting on the Assembly’s resolution, emphasized that the issue was about protecting the integrity of the institution, not his personal grievance. He expressed his decision to move forward despite the public humiliation and assault, stating that his focus remains on advancing the interests of his constituency.