Anambra West Councillors Take Oath as Kingsley Okeke Emerges Speaker

By Our Reporter

The newly elected councillors of Anambra West Local Government Area have been inaugurated, marking the commencement of a new legislative administration with Hon. Kingsley Okeke emerging as Speaker of the Legislative Council.

The inauguration and election of principal officers took place on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the Chambers of the Legislative Council, Anambra West Local Government Secretariat, Nzam.

The ceremony was performed by the Executive Mayor of Anambra West, Hon. Dr. Tony Obierike, who formally inaugurated the councillors into office.

As part of the proceedings, the newly elected councillors took the Oath of Allegiance, formally affirming their commitment to the responsibilities entrusted to them as representatives of their respective wards.

Following the inauguration, the councillors proceeded to elect the principal officers who will oversee the affairs of the legislative arm.

Hon. Kingsley Okeke was elected Speaker following a motion moved by Hon. Chinonso Obeche of Umuem Ward and seconded by Hon. Ollota Ben of Olumbanasa Ward 1, Inoma.

Hon. Sunday Emegini of Nzam Ward emerged as Deputy Speaker. His election was moved by Hon. Augustine Nnalue of Umueze Anam Ward 2 and seconded by Hon. Onyedika Udekwe of Ezi-Anam Ward.

Other principal officers elected are:

• Hon. Okonkwo Celestine, Abegbu-Iyiora Ward — Majority Leader
• Hon. Onyedika Udekwe, Ezi-Anam Ward — Deputy Majority Leader
• Hon. Udeoba Ernest, Olumbanasa Ward 2, Odeh — Chief Whip
• Hon. Augustine Nnalue, Umueze Anam Ward 2 — Deputy Chief Whip

With the election of the principal officers, the Legislative Council now has a leadership structure to coordinate proceedings, facilitate effective representation and ensure the orderly discharge of its legislative responsibilities.

The new legislative leadership is expected to provide a platform for councillors to articulate the concerns, needs and aspirations of their respective wards while contributing to deliberations on issues affecting residents across Anambra West.

The inauguration marks the beginning of a new legislative chapter for the local government, with expectations that the council will prioritise constructive engagement, accountability, effective representation and people-oriented governance.

The newly elected councillors are also expected to work with the executive arm and other relevant stakeholders to advance development initiatives and address issues affecting communities across the local government area.

The event attracted council officials, political leaders, community stakeholders, supporters and well-wishers, who witnessed the formal inauguration of the councillors and the constitution of the Legislative Council.

The emergence of the new leadership sets the stage for the council to commence its legislative responsibilities and contribute to the governance and development of Anambra West.

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