BY EMMA OVUAKPORIE

ABUJA-Representatives yesterday stalled attempts to reverse the newly introduced open secret voting method to elect the new speaker for the Seventh Assembly.

The method, which was introduced last Tuesday, replaces the electronic voting method, since over 260 new members-elect do not have the electronic data card.

Ita Enang, PDP, Akwa-Ibom State, at the sitting re-introduced the matter, describing the manner in which the voting method was changed as illegal.

Enang said amendment of any aspect of the House rule required that a proper motion be brought to the House and that the House must be put on notice for at least a period of seven days.

According to him, the motion, sponsored by Rep Cyril Maduabum, for the amendment of the rule to change the voting pattern, did not put the House on notice as required by section 15(6) of the House Standing Rule.

This instantly threw the House into some moments of confusion and disquiet as many lawmakers shouted No!

Terngu Tsegba, PDP Benue State, quickly accused Ita Enang of playing double standard game, pointing out that it was Ita Enang who moved a motion that section 15 (6) of the rule be suspended to allow for immediate amendment of the rule.

Speaker Dimeji Bankole, who had been finding it difficult to restore orderliness to the House, simply asked Ita Enang to respond to Tsegba’s allegation.