Hon. Blessing Agbebaku has resigned from his position as Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly following mounting pressure and reported support from 18 lawmakers for his removal.

During the plenary session, Agbebaku stated that his resignation was intended to foster peace in the state and align with the administration's objectives. He expressed gratitude to Governor Monday Okpebholo for his support during his tenure and noted that he stepped down to support a harmonious working relationship with the executive branch. 

Following his resignation, Deputy Speaker Hon. Osamwonyi Atu Osamwonyi temporarily presided over the session. Hon. Yekini Idaiye, representing the Akoko-Edo I Constituency, was nominated by Hon. Sunny Ojezele and seconded by Hon. Eric Okaka. Idaiye subsequently secured 17 of the 24 votes cast and was sworn in by the Clerk of the House.

In his inaugural address, Idaiye emphasized the need to prioritize effective parliamentary practices, legislative oversight, and the welfare of Edo State citizens. He criticized past disruptions to legislative business and announced plans to investigate allegations concerning financial impropriety and official procurements during the previous administration. Additionally, Idaiye directed security agencies to restrict official functions from being accorded to the former Speaker pending the outcome of investigations.

Principal Office Changes

Alongside the change in leadership, several principal offices were reallocated:

• Majority Leader: Hon. Sunday Ojezele (replacing Hon. Jonathan Ibhamawu)

• Deputy Majority Leader: Hon. Eugene Inegbeboh (replacing Hon. Adeh Isibor)

• Minority Leader: Hon. Natasha Osawaru Idibia

• Minority Whip: Hon. Uyi Omisigho