The Delta State House of Assembly (DSHA) has lifted the suspension on Barr. Mathew Omonade, the member representing Ughelli North 1 Constituency.
The decision followed the adoption of recommendations by an ad hoc committee chaired by the Majority Leader of the House, Emeka Nwaobi, which investigated allegations of gross misconduct against Omonade.
Despite the reinstatement, Omonade was warned against actions that could undermine the integrity and sanctity of the offices of the State Governor and the Speaker of the House.
Speaker Dennis Guwor announced the restoration of all Omonade’s rights and privileges as a member of the 8th Assembly.
Presenting the report during Thursday’s session, Nwaobi noted, “Hon. Omonade has made a public apology, appealing to this Honourable House to temper justice with mercy.
He acknowledged his mistake and deeply regretted his actions in a letter dated May 23, 2024, pledging that such actions would not recur.”
Nwaobi emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful and collaborative atmosphere in the House and recommended that Omonade carefully study the House Rules to understand the universal nature of laws.
“The suspension placed on Hon. Omonade Mathew Onojighofia is hereby lifted forthwith,” he declared.
During the session, members, including Oboro Preyor (Bomadi Constituency) and Austin Uroye (Warri South 1 Constituency), urged forgiveness for Omonade, highlighting that his constituents had missed their representative in the state legislature.
The lifting of the suspension was unanimously adopted following a voice vote.
Speaker Guwor expressed concern over attempts to bring the Assembly into disrepute and reiterated that laws are universal and can be domesticated anywhere, advising members to always adhere to the rules.
Omonade’s suspension was initially triggered by controversy over a bill on the generation and distribution of electricity, intended to be domesticated in Delta State.
Omonade had conducted extensive research on the bill and submitted it to the Speaker, who later forwarded it to the Governor.
When the bill was presented to the House as an Executive Bill without crediting Omonade, he persistently demanded the opportunity to present his work, leading to his suspension for allegedly “harassing” the Speaker.
At a recent press conference marking the first anniversary of the 8th Assembly, the Speaker commented on the matter, stating, “It is very unfortunate that a member was suspended. That is not our prayer.
However, laws are universal and cannot be plagiarized.”
Omonade, who serves as the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Petitions, is expected to resume duties on the next adjourned date.
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