~ Denies wrongdoing, demands release of constituency funds, action on ₦6bn road project
By Emmanuel Chigbata
The Member representing Ayamelum Constituency, Bernard Udemezue, has disclosed that he almost resigned from politics when his suspension from the Anambra State House of Assembly became overwhelming and was later renewed for another three months.
Honourable Udemezue, who resumed plenary yesterday after his recall, made the revelation while addressing Assembly correspondents at the legislative complex.
According to him, the prolonged suspension took an emotional and political toll, especially as some constituents who initially supported his cause began to withdraw and question his stance.
“I felt that what was considered light depended on who was winning. I didn’t come into politics empty-handed but in the interest of my people. At a point, I considered resigning and withdrawing completely from politics,” he said.
The lawmaker clarified that there were no formal conditions tied to his reinstatement. He explained that upon receiving information about his recall, he immediately went on social media to tender an apology and appeal for reinstatement.
“I didn’t want to resume as someone who defeated the government or the Assembly. I wanted to return as someone given the privilege to serve again. I don’t want to win against the Governor or appear as a strongman. I only want what is due to my people to reach them.”
He added that although many believed his reinstatement was conditional on the apology, there was no such agreement.
Honourable Udemezue maintained that he did not breach any standing order of the House or any provision of the Constitution.
“We have standing orders, and I violated none, including the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I have no regrets because I committed no offence,” he insisted.
Speaking on constituency empowerment funds, the Ayamelum lawmaker lamented that no funds were released to his constituency during his suspension.
He stressed that constituency allocations are meant for the people and not for personal benefit.
“Suspending me should not mean suspending my constituency. If empowerment funds are withheld, it is not me alone that is being punished but the entire people of Ayamelum. That would be unfair and unconstitutional,” he said, while appealing to the state government to release the funds.
He also called on the state government to take firm action against contractors handling the rehabilitation of the Igbariam–Awkuzu–Ayamelum Road, reportedly awarded in 2025 at ₦6 billion but yet to be completed.
Honourable Udemezue urged the authorities to ensure that the contractors deliver on the project to ease the suffering of road users in the area.
