In a significant development at the Edo State House of Assembly, Maria Oligbi-Edeko has resigned her position as Deputy Speaker.
Oligbi-Edeko, who represents Esan North-East Constituency II under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), said her decision was voluntary and stemmed from the reality of her party’s minority status in the House.
She explained that she stepped down in the interest of fairness, justice, and equity, thanking the PDP leadership and members for their support and for trusting her with the responsibility of legislative service.
Her resignation was met with widespread commendation from fellow lawmakers, who praised her commitment to public service, her integrity, and the impact of her legislative contributions.
Many described her as a principled leader whose tenure as Deputy Speaker left an indelible mark on the Assembly.
Following her departure, the Majority Leader, Jonathan Aigbokhan of the All Progressives Congress (APC), representing Esan West, moved a motion that all entitlements due to the office of the Deputy Speaker be granted to Oligbi-Edeko.
The motion was seconded by Minority Leader Charity Airobarueghian (PDP – Ovia North East I) and supported unanimously through a voice vote.
Subsequently, the House elected Osamwonyi Atu, the APC lawmaker representing Orhionmwon East, as the new Deputy Speaker.
His emergence reflects the APC’s majority control in the Assembly and marks a continuation of the shifting political dynamics within the state’s legislature.
