By Sunny David, Awka
The Anambra State House of Assembly has suspended Hon. Bernard Udemezue, member representing Ayamelum constituency, following a damning report by its Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics and Privileges.
The committee indicted Udemezue for alleged unparliamentary behavior, inciting comments on social media, and abuse of legislative privileges.
In its report presented at plenary on Monday, August 25, 2025, it recommended that he be suspended for three months without pay, issue a public apology, and undergo mandatory training on parliamentary ethics.
The matter originated from a motion of urgent public importance moved on August 19 by Hon. Tony Muobike, and seconded by Hon. Jude Ngobili, accusing Udemezue of making inflammatory statements on social media that could threaten public peace and tarnish the image of the legislature.
The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Nkem Udeze, referred the case to the committee for investigation.
According to the report, Udemezue ignored a formal invitation to appear before the committee, instead mocked the process by posting the letter on his WhatsApp status alongside a song titled “Ndi Ara.”
The committee also cited multiple petitions and reports against him, including accusations of intimidation and threats to colleagues on the Assembly’s WhatsApp group, as well as complaints from lawyers, private citizens, and even the security department of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, alleging threats to life, interference, and abuse of office.
Further allegations claimed that during his tenure as Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland and Boundary Affairs, he influenced the release of suspected cultists and violent offenders.
Records also showed he missed 43 out of 57 sittings between June 2024 and June 2025, and was often late when present.
Most notably, the report said Udemezue publicly alleged that the state government was involved in the kidnap and murder of former lawmaker, Hon. Justice Azuka, linking the case to an alleged impeachment plot against the governor.
Based on its findings, the committee directed that Udemezue must apologize to the Speaker and his colleagues both in writing and across his social media platforms within five working days. He is barred from the Assembly Complex during his suspension period.
It also called on the Anambra State Commissioner of Police and the State Director of the DSS to investigate his claims regarding the alleged plot and murder.
Condemning his conduct, the committee stated: “The actions of Hon. Bernard Udemezue have dented the image of the legislature. This House cannot condone behaviors that undermine our collective integrity.”
The recommendations, endorsed by Committee Chairman Hon. Ofodeme Ikenna and ten other members, will be subjected to further consideration by the full House.
