Udeme Otong (PDP), representing Abak State Constituency, has emerged the Speaker of the 8th Akwa Ibom House of Assembly.
Also, Kufreabasi Edidem (PDP), representing Itu State Constituency, emerged as the Deputy Speaker in the election preceding Friday’s inauguration of the house in Uyo.
Mr Otong, a two-term lawmaker, emerged after securing 20 votes to defeat his only contender, Ukpong Akpabio, who scored six votes.
Mr Akpabio (PDP) is representing Essien Udim State Constituency.
The speaker was earlier nominated and seconded for the position of speaker by Effiong Johnson (PDP, Mbo State Constituency), and Uwem Imo-Ita (PDP, Mkpat Enin State Constituency), a first-timer in the house.
In an inaugural speech, Mr Otong thanked his colleagues for their support which he said saw him emerge as the speaker.
He said that the members had placed a big responsibility on his shoulders and solicited for their support and cooperation to succeed.
He also urged them and people of the state to cooperate with the new administration to move the state forward.
(NAN)
