The Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Maria Oligbi-Edeko, has resigned from her position.
Oligbi-Edeko, who represents Esan North-East II, announced her resignation during plenary on Monday in Benin City, the state capital.
Her decision follows the recent shift in the Assembly’s political balance, after several members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including the Speaker, defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), rendering the PDP a minority in the House.
Oligbi-Edeko was elected Deputy Speaker on June 16, 2023. Following her resignation, lawmakers unanimously elected Hon. Osamwonyi Atu, who represents Orhionmwon East under the APC, as the new Deputy Speaker.
During the session, Majority Leader Hon. Jonathan Aigbokhan moved a motion requesting that all entitlements due to the office of the Deputy Speaker be accorded to Oligbi-Edeko. The motion was seconded by Minority Leader Hon. Charity Airobarueghian and was unanimously adopted.
In her resignation letter, Oligbi-Edeko cited the need to uphold justice, fairness, and equity across all constituencies. She also expressed appreciation to PDP leaders and members for the opportunity to serve her constituency in the House.
Fellow lawmakers commended her commitment and dedication to public service.
