Edo Assembly Deputy Speaker resigns

Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Maria Oligbi-Edeko, has formally stepped down from her position as political realignments continue to reshape the legislature.

Oligbi-Edeko, who represents Esan North-East II Constituency under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), announced her resignation during plenary on Monday in Benin City, the state capital. Her exit follows a wave of defections from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC), including the House Speaker, leaving the PDP in the minority.

Her resignation ends a tenure that began on June 16, 2023, when she was elected Deputy Speaker of the 8th Assembly.

Following her announcement, the House unanimously elected Hon. Osamwonyi Atu, an APC lawmaker representing Orhionmwon East, as the new Deputy Speaker.

In a gesture of appreciation, the Majority Leader, Hon. Jonathan Aigbokhan, moved a motion urging the Assembly to ensure that all entitlements and privileges attached to the office of the Deputy Speaker be granted to Oligbi-Edeko. The motion, seconded by Minority Leader Hon. Charity Airobarueghian, received unanimous support from the chamber.

In her resignation letter, Oligbi-Edeko explained that her decision was driven by her commitment to justice, fairness, and equity across all constituencies in the state. She also expressed deep gratitude to the PDP leadership and members for trusting her with the opportunity to serve.

Members of the House praised her dedication, describing her as a passionate and principled public servant who brought integrity to the legislature.