The Ondo State House of Assembly on Tuesday elected a new Speaker, Mrs Jumoke Akindele, to fill the gap created by death of the former Speaker, Mr Samuel Adesina.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Adesina died on Feb. 25 after an ailment.

NAN reports that the election, which took place at the hallow chamber of the House, was contested by Soji Akinkurolere, Oyebo Aladeitan and Mrs Jumoke Akindele.

At the end of the voting, Akindele pulled 13 votes; Aladeitan , 9; while Akinkurolere scored zero vote.

The House, which was presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Mr Dare Emiola, representing Akoko South-West Constituency 1, declared Akindele, representing Okitipupa Constituency 2, the winner.

Earlier, the motion for the election of a Speaker was moved by the Majority Leader, Mr Ifedayo Akinsoyinu, representing Ondo West Constituency 2.

It was seconded by Mr Olujuyigbe Adekunle, representing Akure South Constituency 2.

Akindele, who could not control her emotion, burst into tears, saying she was overwhelmed for being the first female Speaker of the state.

According to her, her leadership style will be transparent, accountable, fair, accommodating and loyal.

She said that her kudos went to the women folks starting from Mrs Kemi Mimiko, the governor’s wife, market women and all women in other profession.

She, however, dissolved all ad-hoc and standing committees and directed the members of such committees  to hand over official items  belonging to the assembly to the clerk within 24 hours.

NAN reports that the three contestants are from the Southern Senatorial District, which produced the late speaker. 

(NAN)