Maria Oligbi-Edeko, the Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, officially stepped down from her position during a plenary session held on Monday in Benin City.
Her resignation comes in the wake of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) losing its majority influence in the Assembly, triggered by several defections, including that of the Speaker, to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Oligbi-Edeko, who represents Esan North-East II, had been elected to the deputy speakership on June 16, 2023.
Following her exit, lawmakers elected APC’s Osamwonyi Atu, who represents Orhionmwon East, as the new Deputy Speaker after a unanimous vote.
In a show of respect, Majority Leader Hon. Jonathan Aigbokhan put forward a motion calling for all privileges associated with the office of the Deputy Speaker to be granted to Oligbi-Edeko.
The motion received immediate support from Minority Leader Hon. Charity Airobarueghian and was passed unanimously.
In her resignation letter, Oligbi-Edeko stated that her decision was driven by a commitment to uphold justice, equity, and fairness across all constituencies.
She also extended her gratitude to the PDP for the opportunity to serve and received praise from colleagues for her steadfast service and dedication.