Benin City: The Deputy Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly, Mrs. Maria Oligbi-Edeko, representing Esan North East II under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has voluntarily resigned from her position. Her decision comes in light of the PDP's minority status within the Assembly.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Oligbi-Edeko was appointed as Deputy Speaker of the 8th Assembly on June 16, 2023, and has served in that role until her recent resignation. In her resignation speech, she emphasized her decision was motivated by a desire to promote justice, fairness, and equity across all constituencies.
Oligbi-Edeko expressed gratitude to the PDP leadership and members for their trust in her ability to represent her constituency in the assembly. Colleagues in the House commended her strong commitment to public service and her integrity, which she upheld throughout her tenure. Her leadership was described by many as impactful and dedicated to the legislative process.
Following her resignation, Mr. Osamwonyi Atu, an APC representative from Orhionmwon East, was unanimously voted in as the new deputy speaker. In acknowledgment of Oligbi-Edeko's contributions, the Majority Leader, Jonathan Aigbokhan of APC-Esan West, proposed that she receive all entitlements due to the office of the deputy speaker. This motion was supported by Charity Airobarueghian, the minority leader from PDP-Ovia North East 1, and was adopted by the other lawmakers.