Why I Stepped Down As Edo Speaker – Agbebaku Reveals

Former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, has explained that he resigned from office after being asked to step aside in the interest of peace and stability in the state.

According to Ireporter Online, Agbebaku announced his resignation during Monday’s plenary session, amid reports that 18 lawmakers were preparing to initiate impeachment proceedings against him.

Addressing his colleagues, Agbebaku said he accepted the decision to resign because he did not want his continued stay in office to create further tension or stand in the way of efforts to maintain peace.

He also acknowledged the support he received from Governor Monday Okpebholo during his tenure, saying he was willing to cooperate with any decision considered necessary to preserve peace in the state.

Following his resignation, the Assembly proceeded to elect a new Speaker, with Yekini Idaiye, representing Akoko-Edo Constituency I, emerging after securing 17 of the 24 votes cast.

Idaiye was subsequently sworn in as the new Speaker of the Eighth Assembly.

The leadership change came amid reports of disagreements between Agbebaku and some lawmakers, as well as alleged pressure from political leaders within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Agbebaku had reportedly faced opposition over several issues, including his handling of a nominee backed by the governor and other grievances raised by members of the House.

Before his resignation was formally announced, Agbebaku was said to have arrived at the Assembly complex early in the morning and directed his aides to move his personal belongings from the Speaker’s office.

After assuming office, Idaiye promised to reposition the Assembly and improve its legislative activities. He criticised what he described as repeated adjournments and a lack of progress in the House under the previous leadership.

The new Speaker also alleged financial misconduct involving the former leadership, including claims concerning the purchase of official vehicles, and called for an investigation into the allegations.

He further directed that Agbebaku should not perform any duties associated with the Speaker’s office pending the outcome of the proposed investigation.

The Assembly also approved changes to its principal officers, with Sunday Ojezele emerging as Majority Leader and Eugene Inegbeboh appointed Deputy Majority Leader. Uyi Omisigho was named Minority Whip, while Natasha Osawaru Idibia became Minority Leader.

Agbebaku’s resignation has therefore ushered in a major leadership change in the Edo State House of Assembly, with the new leadership promising to restore stability and focus on legislative duties.