The Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Mrs Maria Oligbi-Edeko, representing Esan North East II constituency under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has voluntarily resigned from her position following the party's new minority status in the Assembly.

Oligbi-Edeko, who was elected Deputy Speaker of the 8th Assembly on June 16, 2023, cited the need to "allow for justice, fairness and equity for all the constituencies" as the reason for her resignation.

In her resignation speech, she expressed gratitude to the leaders and members of the PDP for finding her worthy to represent her constituency in the assembly.

Following her resignation, Mr Osamwonyi Atu, representing Orhionmwon East constituency under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has emerged as the new deputy speaker after a unanimous vote by members of the House.

Lawmakers from across party lines took turns praising Oligbi-Edeko's tenure, highlighting her unwavering dedication, passion for public service, and high level of integrity throughout her time as deputy speaker. Many described her as a committed leader whose contributions made a lasting impact on the legislative process.

In a show of bipartisan respect, the Majority Leader, Jonathan Aigbokhan (APC-Esan West), moved that all entitlements due to the office of the deputy speaker should be accorded to Oligbi-Edeko despite her resignation. The motion was seconded by the minority leader, Charity Airobarueghian (PDP-Ovia North East 1), and subsequently adopted by other lawmakers.

This development marks a significant shift in the political dynamics of the Edo State House of Assembly, with the PDP now officially recognized as the minority party while the APC holds the majority.