‘We want peace’ – Ex-Edo Speaker speaks on resignation
Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, on Monday said his resignation was in response to a decision he had been asked to accept in the interest of peace in the state.
Agbebaku announced his resignation during plenary shortly before the House elected Hon. Yekini Idaiye, member representing Akoko-Edo I Constituency, as his successor.
Speaking before his replacement, Agbebaku said, “I agree with all of you. The process is that today I have been asked to resign. Because of that, I was supposed to lead the procession here to resign on the red chair.
“I was not born to be a speaker. I think today I am standing here as a hero.”
Agbebaku thanked Governor Monday Okpebholo for his support during his tenure, saying he had no choice but to respect the governor’s decision if it was aimed at ensuring peace.
“If he has a decision contrary to giving his government a peaceful trade deal, I think I have no choice but to obey his decision.
“We want peace in the state. And I have resigned,” he added.
The resignation came amid reports of growing tension within the House and alleged moves by lawmakers to remove the Speaker.
Agbebaku was reportedly accused of failing to facilitate the clearance of a nominee of the governor for an appointment, among other issues.
He was said to have arrived at the Assembly complex around 8 a.m. on Monday, summoned his staff and directed them to move his personal belongings from the Speaker’s office to the office of the member representing Owan West Constituency, which he represents.
Following his resignation, the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Osamwonyi Atu Osamwonyi, presided over plenary.
Hon. Sunny Ojezele, representing Esan South-East Constituency, nominated Idaiye for the Speakership. The nomination was seconded by Hon. Eric Okaka, representing Owan East Constituency.
Idaiye subsequently emerged Speaker after securing 17 of the 24 votes cast by members of the House. The Clerk of the House administered the oath of office to him.
Addressing lawmakers after his election, Idaiye promised a new approach to legislative business, saying his administration would prioritise effective parliamentary practices and the interests of Edo people.
He said the leadership change was necessary to ensure that the House discharged its legislative and oversight responsibilities effectively.
Idaiye also alleged financial impropriety against the former Speaker, including claims concerning the procurement of Lexus 570 vehicles and Hilux vans.
He said the allegations against Agbebaku should be thoroughly investigated and directed security agencies to ensure that no official functions of the Speaker were accorded to him pending the outcome of the process.
