This followed a unanimous decision by the House after his nomination by the lawmaker representing Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni constituency one, Christian Ahiakwo and seconded by Martin Amaehule, the lawmaker representing Obio-Akpor constituency one.
Meanwhile, the lawmaker representing Ahoada East constituency two, Edison Ehie emerged as the Deputy Speaker of the 9th assembly.
Reacting to his redlection as Speaker of the State Assembly, Ikuinyi Owaji-Ibani appreciated members for his reelection and assured that the leadership of the ninth assembly will be totally participatory.
Other principal officers of the house are billed to be elected on the next adjourned sitting on Thursday 6th June.
Earlier, the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike while dissolving the eight Assembly and proclaimed the commencement of the ninth assembly, assured of a robust working relationship with the new leadership of the new assembly.
He said, “As we usher in the new term of this August House, I pray and hope that your deliberations will be constructive, democratic, progressive and people-oriented.
“And that you will continue to strive hard with total commitment and sense of accountability and facilitate the implementation of our policies and programmes to enable us set new benchmarks for development and shared prosperity for our people.
“On this positive note, it is my singular honour and privilege to officially proclaim the first session of the 9th Legislative Assembly of Rivers State.
“Let me assure you all that we will continue to respect and uphold your independence as a separate arm of government as our Constitution demands in the same way that we will continue to provide every support that you need to enable you discharge your constitutional responsibilities to the government and to the people of Rivers State. As I said before, ours should continue to be that of mutual respect, partnership and progress.
” I am proud to say that since inception, the Rivers State House of Assembly has been known for its high sense of decorum in the conduct of its proceedings, and I hope this August House will continue with this tradition and uphold its honour and dignity.
“You will agree with us that our plan for the next four years is comprehensive in scope and realistic in terms of deliverables. But, it is our constitutional responsibility to make collective efforts towards achieving these plans and goals for the benefit of our people.”