By Okey Alozie
Without stepping into the chambers of the Imo State House of Assembly for inauguration to commence business of lawmaking, members-elect of the state legislature are already beaming with cheers and smiling to the bank courtesy of free cash given to them by colleagues seeking election as Speaker.
Barring no unforeseen circumstances, the House will have a new speaker early June at the expiration of the tenure of Ben Uwajumogu-led lawmakers. The race for who succeeds the outgoing Ihitte Uboma representative has changed gear with some of the aspirants employing several methods to gain favour from their colleagues.
Trumpeta was told that money-game has been imported with suspected aspirants spoiling others with cash gifts and other items.
The two major contenders from Okigwe and Onuimo are said to be at the centre stage during the induction course which took place in Abuja last week.
The newly elected house members had good movement as they have entertained lavishly by the Hot contenders of the speaker’s seat.
The succession war was clearly narrowed between the two major contenders and this for now have brought division between the elected members. Moreover, the cold war between the ranking members and first time law makers is said to have began immediately after the induction programe.
Further, information revealed that those who want to gain favour entered into special agreement after spending N100,000 to each member including plate of pepper-soup.
Meanwhile the state Government has sett up special committee to coordinate the swearing in ceremony.
The committee is made up of three commissioners to SSAs, Head of Service and Principal Secretary to the Governor.
Millions of naira has been budgeted for the ceremony. Governor Okorocha and his Deputy, Prince Eze Madumere who have been away for more than three weeks now are expected to come back this week.
Our reporter gathered that the venue for the swearing-in will be decided by the Governor as soon as he comes back.
From all indication, Dan Anyiam’s stadium Owerri will be chosen because of security and capacity. The new House member is likely to be inaugurate 8th of June.
