Deputy Speaker of Ebonyi state House of Assembly, Odefa Obasi Odefa has raised alarm over plots to remove him from office. He raised the alarm in a statement on Saturday in Abakaliki, the State capital. He also alleged that some persons in the state are also plotting to harass, intimidate and incarcerate him, members of his family and political associates. He however did not name those plotting such moves against him.
Odefa said those plotting to remove him from office are planning to do so through illegal means. Odefa, who is the brother to the Southeast National Vice Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), Ali Odefa, reaffirmed that he is still a member of the party despite speculations to the contrary. He said they reaffirmation became necessary because for over one year since the defection of Governor David Umahi to the All Progressive Congress (APC) from the PDP, there have been speculations as to which party he belongs.
He noted that under the constitution, a lawmaker is allowed to defect to another party if there is crisis in his party. “My party, the PDP from ward, local government, state and national levels remain peaceful united and so, not in any way present the avenue that could engender my defection from the parry to another political party. Also, it is well established tradition and convention that a lawmaker who wishes to defect from his political party to another is required to formally write to the Speaker informing him and other lawmakers in plenary of such decision.”
He alleged that the plot to remove him as deputy speaker may not be unconnected to his decision to remain with the party. “I therefore, hereby affirm that I remain loyal committed and proud member of the PDP, Ebonyi State chapter,” he said.
While assuring his party members, supporters and constituents of his resolve to remain firm on the side of the law, Odefa vowed to deploy all legal means to protect his fundamental human rights. He however, stated that his relationship with Mr Umahi remains cordial as he has tremendous respect for the governor. He assured the people of the state of his commitment to the growth of democracy in the state promising to join other good spirited and patriotic citizens in pursuit of progress and development of the state.