Maria Oligbi-Edeko has resigned her position as deputy speaker of the Edo state house of assembly.
Oligbi-Edeko, who represents Esan north-east II under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), cited the minority status of her party in the house as the reason for her resignation.
She was elected on June 16, 2023, and served in the role until her voluntary exit on Monday.
In her speech, she said the decision was taken “in the interest of justice, fairness and equity across all constituencies”.
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“I want to sincerely thank the leadership and members of the PDP for finding me worthy to represent my constituency and for the opportunity to serve as deputy speaker,” she said.
Lawmakers in the house commended her commitment to public service and the integrity she maintained during her time in office.
Following her resignation, Osamwonyi Atu, who represents Orhionmwon east under the All Progressives Congress (APC), was unanimously elected as the new deputy speaker.
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Jonathan Aigbokhan, the majority leader and member representing Esan west, moved a motion that all entitlements due to the office be granted to the former deputy speaker.
The motion was seconded by Charity Airobarueghian, minority leader from Ovia north-east I, and unanimously adopted by the house.
On May 6, Blessing Agbebaku, speaker of the Edo state house of assembly, defected from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
A statement issued by Fred Itua, chief press secretary to Monday Okpebholo, governor of Edo state, said Agbebaku joined the APC with 17 LG chairpersons, councilors, and other members of the PDP.
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