By Jethro Ibileke
The Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Mrs. Maria Oligbi-Edeko, on Monday voluntarily resigned her position due to the minority status of her party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in the Assembly.
Until her resignation, Oligbi-Edeko, who represents Esan North-East II, in the Assembly, was elected Deputy Speaker of the 8th Assembly on June 16, 2023.
In her resignation speech, Oligbi-Edeko, said she resigned her position to allow for justice, fairness, and equity for all the constituencies.
She thanked the leaders and members of the PDP for finding her worthy to represent her constituency in the assembly.
Lawmakers in the House took turns to shower accolades on Oligbi-Edeko following the announcement of her resignation.
They praised her unwavering dedication, passion for public service, and the high level of integrity she consistently demonstrated throughout her tenure.
Many of the lawmakers described her as a committed leader whose contributions left a lasting impact on the legislative process during her tenure as Deputy Speaker.
Following her resignation, the Majority Leader, Jonathan Aigbokhan (APC-Esan West), moved a motion that all the entitlement due to the office of the Deputy Speaker should be accorded her.
The motion was seconded by the Minority Leader, Charity Airobarueghian (PDP, Ovia North East 1), was supported by other lawmakers, and was finally adopted.
The APC lawmaker representing Orhionmwon East, Osamwonyi Atu, was unanimously
voted as the new Deputy Speaker.