The Anambra State House of Assembly has suspended Hon. Bernard Udemezue, member representing Ayamelum Constituency, for three months over what colleagues described as “damaging” social media posts against the legislature.
Udemezue, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker, had accused the Assembly of marginalising his constituency in the distribution of constituency allowances.
He also disclosed details of his own allocation, sparking outrage among colleagues who said his comments threatened the integrity and security of the House.
His suspension followed a motion of urgent public importance raised at plenary by Tony Muobike, representing Aguata 2 Constituency, and seconded by the Chief Whip, Jude Ngobili of Ihiala 1 Constituency.
Speaker Somtochukwu Udeze subsequently directed the House Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics and Privileges to investigate the matter.
At Tuesday’s plenary, the committee submitted its report, recommending a three-month suspension, which was adopted by the House.
In moving the motion, Muobike warned that Udemezue’s comments were not only damaging to the reputation of the Assembly but could also endanger the safety of lawmakers.
“Mr. Speaker, one of our colleagues has been on social media making comments that are concerted and maliciously damaging the image of this House.
“Most of these comments are also threatening the safety of members. If not addressed, the consequences will be dire,” he said.
The development came days after a Facebook platform, APGA Initiative Forum, circulated a 14-minute video allegedly featuring Udemezue linking the December 2024 killing of the late Justice Azuka, member representing Onitsha 1 North Constituency, to a plot involving top political figures.
Azuka, a Labour Party lawmaker who regained his mandate through the courts, was kidnapped on December 24, 2024, in Onitsha, and his decomposing body was later discovered near the Second Niger Bridge in February 2025. His death has remained unresolved.
Following the circulation of the video, the Assembly, through a letter dated August 20 and signed by Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme, Chairman of the Committee on Ethics and Privileges, invited Udemezue to appear before the panel for questioning.
“Your presence is required to discuss matters pertinent to the Committee’s mandate. We value your cooperation and look forward to your contributions during this engagement. Please treat this invitation with utmost importance,” the letter read.
The committee eventually ruled that Udemezue’s conduct violated the House’s code of ethics and warranted disciplinary action.
With the suspension, the embattled lawmaker is barred from participating in plenary sessions or committee activities until the end of the three-month period..
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