Just-ln: Burutu Legislative Arm gets new leader as Ekereke Odafe was impeached over financial recklessness and abuse of office

Francis Tayor 

Barely one year in office, wind of change hits Burutu Local Government Council of Delta State as the Leader of its Legislative Arm, Rt. Hon Ekereke Odafe Bibobra alongside his Deputy, Hon Akpososo Brigila and the Majority Leader, Hon. Azigbeotu Samson was  impeached on Monday August 25, 2025 from their various positions over alleged misappropriation of funds, gross misconduct, abuse of office, disregard to constituted authority and high-handedness.

The impeachment petition was signed by 14 out of 20 members for their removal, citing various allegations ranging from gross misconduct, abuse of office, financial misappropriation, high-handedness among other nefarious activities that is against legislative business.

 

The decision to impeach them was not taken lightly as it was based on concrete evidence and the majority support of the Legislative Arm. 

Meanwhile, following their impeachment, the house immediately elected Hon (Barr) Zimughan A. Martins as the new Leader. Others include; Hon Clement wagha as Deputy Leader, Hon Pondy Ebipadewei Stainless as Majority Leader, Hon Goodluck Ayangor as Chief Whip, and Hon Paul Florence (Miss) as Deputy Chief Whip respectively. 

The above new leaders have been chosen to steer the Legislative Arm in a new direction and bring a fresh perspective to governance in Burutu. The reasons for the impeachment of the former leaders are grave and cannot be taken lightly. Gross misconduct, financial misappropriation and abuse of office are serious offenses that cannot be ignored. 

The Legislative Arm has a responsibility to uphold the values of transparency, accountability, fairness and the decision to impeach the former leaders shows their commitment to these principles. The new leadership under Hon Zimughan A. Martins is expected to bring positive changes and restore the trust of the people in the legislative Arm. 

As a Barrister, Hon Zimuaghan is expected to brings his wealth of legal knowledge and experience to the position which will be crucial in ensuring that the legislative arm operates within the confines of the law. Along with the new Leader, the election's of Hon Clement wagha, Hon Pondy Ebipadewei stainless, Hon Goodluck Ayangor, and Hon Paul Florence (Miss) as Deputy Leader, Majority Leader, Chief Whip and Deputy Chief Whip are expected to bring a balance of experience, expertise and diversity to the legislative arm.

The town of Burutu can now look forward to a transparent and accountable government with the newly elected leaders at the helm of affairs. The people's voices have been heard, and their concerns have been addressed through the impeachment of the former leaders. This marks a new beginning for the legislative arm and a step towards a better and brighter future for the people of Burutu.

In conclusion, the impeachment of the Leader of Burutu legislative Arm and the subsequent election of new leaders is a significant event that will have a lasting impact on the council. It shows that the people's voices are being heard, and that the legislative arm is committed to upholding the values of good governance. The new leadership brings a promise of positive change and a renewed hope for the people of Burutu Local Government.

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‎The new Leader, Hon (Barr) Martins Zimughan in his acceptance speech was filled with humility and a deep sense of honor as he thanked God and his fellow members for entrusting him with the position. He made a promise not to let any personal vendetta affect his leadership rather he plans to reach out and mend any broken relationship among the members. 

Zimuaghan expressed gratitude towards his party and the council chairman, Chief (Dr) Julius Takeme for bringing uncommon developments to the grassroots level. He emphasized the importance of a harmonious and transparent working relationship between the legislative and executive arms in order to fulfill the promises made to the people who voted them into office. His tone of voice was sincere and genuine, as he reiterated his commitment to bringing about positive change for the Burutu people.

He made it clear that his ultimate goal is to deliver on the dividends of democracy and heal any divides caused by past poor leadership, the statement added.