A Councilor from the Isi-Uzo Legislature in Enugu State has been suspended on allegation of embezzlement involving funds meant for relief items for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), News About Nigeria reports.
The Councilor’s suspension was announced, following a series of petitions submitted to the Isi-Uzo Legislative Council by the Umualor Community.
The petitions demanded an urgent investigation, recovery, and proper disbursement of the funds intended for individuals displaced by the Eha-Amufu-herders crisis.
The motion for the Councilor’s suspension was presented by Hon. Nnabuike Ugwu, the Majority Leader of the Legislature and Councilor representing Neke Ward 2.
Hon. Ugwu expressed concern over the prolonged delay in releasing the palliative funds to the IDPs in Umualor Community, months after the initial disbursement.
The Councilor was accused of disclosing confidential information from closed-door legislative sessions, violating Rule 3(e) of the Isi-Uzo Legislature.
Hon. John Nwodo, the Councilor representing Eha-Amufu Ward 1, seconded the motion and expressed disapproval of the alleged misconduct.
He emphasized that their role as elected representatives was to serve the people and improve their well-being, not exacerbate their difficulties.
Following the debates that ensued after adopting the motion, Hon. Irenus Anene Nnaji, the Leader of the Isi-Uzo Legislature, characterized the allegations as grave and unfortunate.
The Legislature stressed the importance of transparency and accountability, vowing to uphold these principles as their guiding values.
The Councilors also commended the development efforts of Hon. Obiora Obeagu, the Isi-Uzo Council Chairman, and expressed their continued support for his administration, as well as Governor Peter Mbah’s leadership.
