Anambra State Lawmaker Summoned for Exposing Colleagues’ Fund Diversion
A Nigerian lawmaker, Bernard Udemezue, has been summoned by the Anambra State House of Assembly for revealing details of how his colleagues allegedly divert funds meant for public good. Udemezue, who represents Ayamelum Constituency, shared the information on his social media handles, sparking outrage among his fellow lawmakers.
According to reports, the House passed a resolution to summon Udemezue following a matter of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon Tony Mobike, a member representing Aguata 2 constituency. Hon Mobike described Udemezue’s social media posts as not only damaging to the assembly’s reputation but also threatening the safety of its members.
Udemezue, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had revealed that his colleagues collect and pocket their constituency allowances, meant for projects that benefit the people. He also disclosed that each lawmaker takes home a substantial sum, which has been deemed excessive and potentially threatening to their safety.
In an interview with journalists, Udemezue defended his actions, stating that he had promised his constituents transparency before the election. He explained that he had shared information about his constituency’s empowerment fund and his overhead allowance, which amounts to N7.5 million every three months, later increased to N10 million.
Udemezue alleged that his colleagues are unhappy with him for revealing the truth about the funds, which they keep for themselves rather than using them for the people. He maintained that he did nothing wrong by updating his constituents about what accrues to them through his representation.
The matter has been referred to the House Committee on Rules, Businesses, Ethics, and Privileges, which is expected to report back to the House next Tuesday. The development has sparked a heated debate about the activities of state lawmakers, who have been accused of portraying the state governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, as being responsible for underfunding them.
A respondent, Mr Chuka Eze, commented that the issue would expose the true selfish nature of the representatives in the assembly. “All along, they portray Soludo as being wicked and not giving out any money to the assembly, but the real truth is coming out,” he said.
The controversy highlights the ongoing challenges of transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s governance system, where corruption and fund mismanagement remain significant concerns. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Anambra State House of Assembly will address the allegations and work towards restoring public trust.
