The Abia House of Assembly, on Tuesday, inaugurated Aaron Uzodike of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Aba North State Constituency.

Mr Uzodike replaced Destiny Nwangwu of the Labour Party (LP) who was sacked by the Court of Appeal.

His inauguration is coming almost nine months after the Court of Appeal, sitting in Lagos, nullified the election of Mr Nwangwu.

The court had, on November 27, 2023 declared Mr Uzodike, who was a member of the seventh legislature, winner of the March 25, 2023 state assembly election.

The court had ordered the immediate withdrawal of the certificate of return earlier issued to Mr Nwangwu by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In compliance with the order, INEC issued a fresh certificate of return to the PDP candidate.

Mr Uzodike’s inauguration was, however, delayed after it was alleged that the court judgement was surrounded by controversies.

The Clerk of the House, JohnPedro Irokansi, administered the oath of office and oath of allegiance on him during the plenary session.

In a brief remark after the inauguration, the Speaker, Emmanuel Emeruwa, congratulated Mr Uzodike, on behalf of other lawmakers, for returning to the House.

Speaking with journalists, Mr Uzodike promised to provide good representation to his constituents.

He expressed gratitude to God, Gov. Alex Otti and the speaker for his inauguration.

“Delay is not denial, the end justifies the means and I want to say that every position you are occupying is from God,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Assembly has passed the Local Government Amendment Bill.

The executive bill, sponsored by the majority leader, Uchenna Okoro, representing Arochukwu Constituency, is expected to pave the way for the smooth conduct of the upcoming local government elections.

The lawmakers, thereafter, adjourned for a recess to reconvene on September 24.

(NAN)