The Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Maria Oligbi-Edeko, has officially resigned her position.
Her resignation was announced on Monday during plenary at the Assembly complex in Benin City, the state capital, according to a report by Daily Trust.
Oligbi-Edeko, who represents Esan North-East II Constituency, stepped down from her role following the defection of several members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including the Speaker, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The mass defection effectively reduced the PDP to a minority in the Assembly.
She was first elected Deputy Speaker on June 16, 2023, during the inauguration of the 8th Assembly.
Following her resignation, the lawmakers unanimously elected Hon. Osamwonyi Atu, who represents Orhionmwon East under the APC, as the new Deputy Speaker.
In her resignation letter, Oligbi-Edeko stated that her decision was guided by the principles of “justice, fairness, and equity” to ensure all constituencies in the state are equally represented.
“I wish to express my gratitude to the leaders and members of the PDP for giving me the opportunity to serve,” she said.
Meanwhile, the House moved quickly to honor her service.
The Majority Leader, Hon. Jonathan Aigbokhan, proposed a motion that all entitlements due to the office of Deputy Speaker be accorded to Oligbi-Edeko.
The motion was seconded by Minority Leader, Hon. Charity Airobarueghian, and unanimously adopted by the Assembly members.
The lawmakers praised Oligbi-Edeko for her commitment, integrity, and passion for public service during her time in office.
