“Edo Assembly Sees Leadership Shift as PDP’s Maria Oligbi-Edeko Resigns as Deputy Speaker”

In a significant political development within the Edo State House of Assembly, Maria Oligbi-Edeko, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker representing Esan North East II, has stepped down from her role as Deputy Speaker. Her voluntary resignation, announced during Monday’s plenary session, has marked a pivotal moment in the legislative structure of the 8th Assembly.

Oligbi-Edeko, who was elected Deputy Speaker on June 16, 2023, served in the position for nearly a year before her decision to resign, citing a shift in the Assembly’s political composition. With the PDP now in the minority, she emphasized that stepping down was necessary to ensure justice, fairness, and equitable representation for all constituencies.

“I have taken this decision in good faith, to preserve the democratic ethos and to guarantee a level playing ground for all members of this hallowed chamber,” Oligbi-Edeko stated on the floor of the House. She also expressed gratitude to the PDP leadership and her constituents for entrusting her with a role of such responsibility.

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PDP Lawmaker Prioritizes Justice Amid Minority Status

The resignation of Maria Oligbi-Edeko underscores the shifting dynamics within the Edo legislative framework. Her departure from the deputy speakership is widely seen as a principled stance amid growing concerns about fair representation and political balance within the Assembly.

During her farewell remarks, Oligbi-Edeko was applauded by colleagues across party lines. Several lawmakers described her as a model of integrity, known for her passionate advocacy and dedication to the legislative process. Her leadership was characterized by a focus on inclusive policymaking and ethical standards, which have left a lasting impression on the Assembly.

Jonathan Aigbokhan, the APC Majority Leader representing Esan West, acknowledged her legacy while also steering the chamber toward a swift transition. Aigbokhan moved a motion for the Assembly to honor her successor with all official entitlements due to the Deputy Speaker’s office, a motion that received unanimous backing.

In a rare display of bipartisan unity, the motion was seconded by Charity Airobarueghian, the Minority Leader and a fellow PDP member from Ovia North East 1. This cooperative gesture highlighted a shared respect for the institution’s procedures and a commitment to maintaining stability amid political realignments.

Osamwonyi Atu Emerges as New Deputy Speaker

Following Oligbi-Edeko’s resignation, the House unanimously elected Osamwonyi Atu, an APC lawmaker representing Orhionmwon East, as the new Deputy Speaker. The decision reflects the Assembly’s current political majority and ensures leadership continuity.

Atu’s emergence marks a new chapter for the Assembly, as lawmakers look to navigate the remainder of their tenure with a reinforced leadership team. Known for his pragmatic approach and solid constituency engagement, Atu is expected to build upon the foundation laid by his predecessor while steering the legislative body in alignment with the APC’s majority vision.

Observers suggest that this shift in leadership may influence legislative priorities, especially as the state prepares for future political contests. With Edo State being a battleground for both APC and PDP interests, changes in leadership within its legislature could signal broader strategic maneuvers ahead of upcoming elections.

Maria Oligbi-Edeko’s resignation as Deputy Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly symbolizes more than a routine change in leadership—it reflects a conscious move toward political integrity and institutional equity. Her decision to step aside amid a changing party dynamic stands as a notable example of putting democratic values before personal or party gain.

As Osamwonyi Atu steps into the role, the Edo Assembly is poised to continue its legislative duties with renewed structure and bipartisan respect. While political tides may continue to shift, the commitment to justice and fair representation remains a guiding principle within the halls of the Assembly.