Abuja, Nigeria
The Deputy Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly, Maria Oligbi-Edeko, has resigned.
Oligbi-Edeko announced the development during the plenary in Benin City, the state capital, on Monday, Daily Trust reports.
Edeko, elected as deputy speaker on June 16, 2023, who is representing Esan North-East II, resigned following a change in the majority status and composition of the assembly based on political parties.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had the majority in the Assembly until defection of PDP members, including the speaker, to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The house, thereafter, elected Osamwonyi Atu (APC Orhionmwon East) as the new deputy speaker following voting by members.
Meanwhile, the majority leader, Jonathan Aigbokhan, moved a motion for all entitlements due to the office of the deputy speaker to be conferred on Oligbi-Edeko.
The motion was seconded by the minority leader, Charity Airobarueghian, and unanimously approved through a voice vote by the members.
In her resignation letter to the House, Oligbi-Edeko stated that her decision was driven by a commitment to justice, fairness, and equity for all constituencies.
She expressed gratitude to the leaders and members of the PDP for entrusting her with the opportunity to represent her constituency in the Assembly.
Lawmakers praised her for her steadfast dedication and passion for public service.
