The Abia State House of Assembly on Tuesday swore in Aaron Uzodike, eight months after the Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos pronounced him as the duly elected member to represent Aba North in the state House of Assembly.
This was even as the Abia State Peoples Democratic Party said the inauguration, after several months of delay, represented a significant milestone in the democratic journey to perfection.
Recall that the court had, in November 2023 voided the election of Mr Destiny Nwagwu of the Labour Party and pronounced Uzodike of the PDP as the member-elect to represent Aba North at the state Assembly.
Uzodike was, however, not sworn in due to some controversies, including court actions.
Speaking after the inauguration and oath of office and allegiance was administered on Uzodike during plenary by the Clerk of the House, Sir Johnpedro Irokansi, the Speaker, Emmanuel Emeruwa, urged other members to give him the necessary support.
Uzodike, speaking after the inauguration, said he had no grudge against anyone, saying, “It is better delayed than denied.”
In a statement signed by the Head of the Abia PDP Media Team, Abraham Amah, the PDP commended Emeruwa for facilitating the event, stating that “Uzodike’s tenacity and perseverance in the face of the unwarranted delay is a testament to his dedication and commitment to serving the people of his constituency.
“The Abia PDP calls on the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly to urgently release all entitlements due to Uzodike in the past 15 months.
“Addressing this matter promptly will enable him to execute his duties effectively and fulfil the “We also congratulate all members of the PDP caucus of the Abia State House of Assembly, led by Solomon Akpulonu for their unwavering commitment toward achieving this milestone. Your collective efforts have brought us to this day, and they do not go unnoticed.
“Lastly, we congratulate the people of Aba North State Constituency and the members of the Abia PDP on this important occasion. Together, we will strive for progress, unity, and the betterment of our communities,” the statement read.