Speaking with newsmen after the plenary that that saw his emergence as speaker, Rt Hon. Ehie Edison thanked the people for electing him the speaker of the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly.
“My commitment to Rivers people is that I will be fair,, I will be just to all and sundry and I will ensure that the rule of law takes its course. I will not betray my colleagues. I will not betray Rivers people and I will not betray my constituents.”
“The honourable members that have been suspended, the House Committee on information will publish their names. The house has urged the House Committee on Petitions to give them fair hearing.
“This house has adjourned sine die because the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) has served us notice of their indefinite strike. So, no further sitting can hold.”
He pledged to uphold the independence of the legislature and ensure mutual respect to the judiciary and executive arms of government.
Meanwhile, in an official statement released to newsmen on Monday, Rt. Hon. Ehie Edison announced the decision to suspend the defaulting members of the Rivers Assembly from their legislative duties.
He said as the chosen representatives, members of the Assembly have a sacred duty to uphold the values of integrity, accountability, and dedication to public service, adding that the some members of the Assembly have fallen short of these principles, hence the suspension.
The newly elected speaker urged citizens to remain steadfast in their support for a united and prosperous Rivers State, adding that together, they will overcome challenges and build a future where honesty, accountability, and transparency prevail
While thanking the people for the confidence reposed in him to lead, he expressed commitment to ensuring that the Rivers State House of Assembly continues to be a beacon of hope and progress for all the people.
The election of Hon. Edison Ehie followed the impeachment of the former speaker, Hon. Martin Amawhule and the suspension of other members of the house.
NIM