By Margaret John, House of Assembly Correspondent
The new Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Hon. Eteng Jones Williams has promised Cross Riverians that, the 9th Assembly under his watch will ensure that the lingering Local Government elections will be conducted.
He also promised that his leadership will train and retrain Honorable members and staff of the Assembly as a means of improving their capacity. Hon. Eteng made the pledge while giving his acceptance speech during the inaugural plenary of the 9th Assembly.
His words, “We shall make training a priority for members and staff. One of our major concerns is the welfare of members. Also, we will make a deliberate effort to involve NGOs in public hearings and develop a cordial relationship with civil societies.
“Consensus cannot be good without effective communication. I will encourage the State to conduct Local Government elections.” The second term member said.
The inauguration had in attendance 9 newly elected members, 16 re-elected members as well as some out gone members.
During the session, Hon. Eteng Williams nominated by Hon. Peter Odey replaced Hon. John Gaul as Speaker with Hon. Joseph Bassey, nominated by Hon. Hillary Ekpang Bisong retained his office as the Deputy Speaker.
Also, on the approval of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as Hon. Peter Odey was elected as the Leader of the House while Hon. Fred Osim emerged the Deputy Leader. In the same vein, Honourables Okon Ephraim and Regina Anyaogo are the Chief Whip and Deputy Whip, respectively.
The session was adjourned for two weeks.
Below are pictures from the plenary:
