The Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Maria Omezele Oligbi-Edeko, has resigned her position.
Oligbi-Edeko, who represents Esan North-East II, announced her resignation during plenary on Monday, May 19, 2025, in Benin City. Her decision follows the shift in the Assembly’s balance of power, after several members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including the Speaker, defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), leaving the PDP in the minority.
Elected Deputy Speaker on June 16, 2023, Oligbi-Edeko said in her resignation letter that her decision was made in the interest of justice, fairness, and equity across constituencies. She expressed gratitude to PDP leaders and members for the opportunity to serve.
Following her resignation, the Assembly unanimously elected Hon. Osamwonyi Atu (APC – Orhionmwon East) as the new Deputy Speaker.
Majority Leader Hon. Jonathan Aigbokhan moved a motion for Oligbi-Edeko to retain all entitlements due to the office of the Deputy Speaker. The motion, seconded by Minority Leader Hon. Charity Airobarueghian, was adopted by the House through a voice vote.
Lawmakers praised Oligbi-Edeko’s commitment and service during her tenure.