Ughelli North Lawmakers Impeach Assembly Leader Over Alleged Misconduct

Leader of the Ughelli North Local Government Legislative Arm, Rt. Hon. Ajero Prosper Okeoghene, has been impeached over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office.

The impeachment was carried out on Wednesday during a plenary session at the legislative chamber, with 12 out of the 18 councillors in attendance endorsing the action.

In a statement signed by the councillors, they accused the former leader of breaching constitutional and legislative requirements guiding the leadership of the 8th Assembly. They said the decision to remove him followed a thorough review of his conduct and performance.

The statement cited allegations including misappropriation of funds, inability to effectively pilot the affairs of the House, high-handedness, gross misconduct, refusal to convene plenary sessions when due, and excessive drunkenness.

The motion for his impeachment was moved by Hon. Onome Isherhe, Councillor representing Ughelli Ward 12, and seconded by Hon. Clever Erhuvwu Ofariko of Orogun Ward 3.

Following his removal, a motion for the emergence of a new leader was moved by Hon. Collins Oghenebrorhie Arhiakpore of Agbarha Ward 2 and seconded by Hon. Felicia Diedjomaho of Agbarho Ward 1.

Rt. Hon. Solomon Oghenero Agbini, Councillor representing Ogor Ward 1, was subsequently elected as the new Leader of the Ughelli North Local Government Legislative Arm.

Efforts to reach the impeached leader for comments were unsuccessful as calls to his phone were not answered or returned as at the time of filing this report.