The Taraba State House of Assembly on Monday resumed and unanimously re-elected Mr Peter Abel Diah as the Speaker for the third time during the inauguration of the 9th Assembly.

Diah who is a five time member of the House representing the people of Mbamga State Constituency from Sardauna Local Government Area on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) was returned unopposed.

Mr Mark Useni representing Takum II nominated  Diah for the position of the speaker and was seconded by the Mr Kizito Bonzena of Zing Constituency.

The House also re-elected Mr Mohammed Gwampo of Yorro Constituency as the Deputy Speaker.

In his acceptance speech,  the speaker,  Diah appreciated his colleagues for the rare privilege to serve them again as the presiding officer for the third time.

The Speaker, who pledged not to joke with the mandate given him,  noted that  as a servant leader, he will ensure the welfare of members and worked closely with them in the interest of Taraba.

“I want to commend the Executive Governor of Taraba  Darius Ishaku  for the good working relationship we enjoyed in the 8th Assembly and we expect a more  robust working relationship between the legislature and the executive in this 9th Assembly.

“I also want to thank my colleagues for the rare privilege to serve them again as their presiding officer and I welcome the new members into the House as we prepare for the legislative business in the 9th Assembly.”

The Speaker who said the 9th Assembly under his watch will consolidate on the gains already made, added that many of the existing laws will be reviewed to address the challenges of the time.

Meanwhile,  there was commotion at the entrance gate of the Assembly as police threw tear gas to disperse the crowd that wanted to force themselves into the Assembly complex.

Many people fainted as a result of the tear gas action and were rushed out of the venue.

Hundreds of people had thronged the Assembly complex in solidarity with members elect who were billed for inauguration.

The situation was however,  brought under control and guests were allowed access into complex for the inauguration ceremony.