The Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Maria Oligbi-Edeko, has formally resigned from her position.
Her resignation was announced during plenary on Monday, May 19, 2025, in Benin City, the Edo State capital. Oligbi-Edeko, who represents Esan North-East II, stepped down following the dwindling strength of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Assembly, which lost its majority status after several members, including the Speaker, defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Hon. Oligbi-Edeko was elected Deputy Speaker on June 16, 2023, during the inauguration of the 8th Assembly. Following her resignation, Hon. Osamwonyi Atu of the APC, representing Orhionmwon East, was unanimously elected by members to fill the vacant position.
In a letter addressed to the House, Oligbi-Edeko stated that her decision was made in the interest of justice, fairness, and equity for all constituencies. She expressed gratitude to the PDP leadership and members for the opportunity to serve and represent her people, while her colleagues praised her commitment and passion for public service.
A motion moved by Majority Leader Hon. Jonathan Aigbokhan, and seconded by Minority Leader Hon. Charity Airobarueghian, called for all entitlements due to the office of the Deputy Speaker to be accorded to Oligbi-Edeko. The motion was unanimously adopted.
