The inauguration of the Abia State House of Assembly is still being delayed days after it was suspended by the Clerk of the House, Don Pedro Irokansi, who cited some portion of the constitution as the reason behind the decision.
A visit to the premises of Abia State House of Assembly showed an empty chamber and quiet atmosphere with no legislative activities going on.
Hon Irokansi said that there were only 23 members out of the 24 elected members that had received their Certificates of Return and that the House could not be inaugurated without the member from the Isiala Ngwa South State Constituency receiving his Certificate.
According to an Umuahia based lawyer, Barrister Nnamdi Eluwa, the portion of constitution referred to by the clerk of the House does not constitute inauguration proceeding.
He stressed that the clerk had no jurisdiction to make such a pronouncement.
However, the Attorney-General of the State, Mr Umeh Kalu, differs from this opinion saying there is the need for the three arms of the government to function effectively.
Meanwhile, the Abia State All Progressive Grand Alliance has frowned at the suspension of the inauguration, with the Chairman, Augustine Ehiemere, insisting that the decision is unconstitutional and an act of illegality.
