Ughelli North Local Government Council was thrown into turmoil on Wednesday, following allegations of misconduct against the Leader of the Legislative Arm, Rt. Hon. Prosper Okajero, coupled with the mysterious disappearance of the council’s mace, a symbol of legislative authority.
The incident occurred shortly after the council resumed from recess. According to the Majority Leader, Hon. Ese Agbobore, who represents Oteri and Otor-Iwhreko Wards, plenary proceedings began peacefully until a motion was raised by a member that did not follow proper legislative procedures.
“As Majority Leader, I observed that the motion was neither properly raised nor seconded. The member later admitted that due process was not followed,” Agbobore explained.
However, the situation quickly escalated when unidentified persons reportedly invaded the chamber, forcing their way in and removing the mace. “They carted away the mace and drove off with it. As of now, we do not know who they are or where the mace is,” he stated, calling on the public to assist in its recovery.
The disruption coincided with reports that 12 out of 18 councillors allegedly signed a letter seeking the impeachment of Rt. Hon. Okajero over alleged gross misconduct, high-handedness, misappropriation of funds, excessive drunkenness, and failure to convene plenary sessions. The motion for his removal was reportedly moved by Hon. Onome Isherhe of Ughelli Ward 12 and seconded by Hon. Clever Erhuvwu Ofariko of Orogun Ward 3.
A motion to elect a new leader was also reportedly moved by Hon. Collins Oghenebrorhie Arhiakpore of Agbarha Ward 2 and seconded by Hon. Felicia Diedjomaho of Agbarho Ward 1, with Rt. Hon. Solomon Oghenero Agbini announced as the purported new leader.
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Despite these claims, Hon. Agbobore denied that any lawful impeachment took place. “Impeachment is a constitutional process that must follow laid-down legislative procedures. None of these steps occurred. Signatures alone do not amount to impeachment,” he stressed, affirming that Rt. Hon. Okajero remains the legitimate Leader of the House.
He added that the council maintains a cordial working relationship with the Executive Arm and continues to function normally. “The Leader is in his office attending to the needs of his constituents. The Clerk of the House and the Sergeant-at-Arms are present. There has been no impeachment,” he said.
Agbobore also suggested that the disturbance may have been instigated by individuals seeking to exploit council funds and called for calm among residents. “We are confident all issues will be resolved amicably. Normalcy will return, and you will see all of us reconvening as one family,” he assured.
Authorities, including the DSS and local police, have been notified and are currently investigating the disappearance of the mace. Members of the public are urged to report any information that could lead to its recovery.
