The Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Maria Omozele Oligbi-Edeko (PDP, Esan North East II) has voluntarily resigned from her position, citing a commitment to justice, equity, and democratic principles.
She resigned in light of the Peoples Democratic Party’s new minority status in the 24-member 8th Assembly.
Following her resignation, Osamwonyi Atu of the All Progressives Congress, representing Orhionmwon East constituency, was elected as the new Deputy Speaker on Monday.
Speaking during Monday’s plenary in Benin, Oligbi-Edeko explained that her decision followed extensive consultation with her constituents and stemmed from her desire to uphold constitutional values and the public trust.
“We’re at a political crossroads in Edo and Nigeria. I choose to act with honour, integrity, and responsibility.
“For equity, peace, and democracy, I resigned after consulting my constituency,” she said.
The lawmaker noted that, despite political pressure, she refused to defect from the PDP, choosing instead to abide by constitutional provisions that prohibit such moves while holding elected office.
“As a law teacher and rule-of-law advocate, I cannot justify defection. My principles won’t allow me to follow that path, even if others do,” she added.
According to Oligbi-Edeko, democracy requires sacrifice and fidelity to ethical leadership, urging her colleagues and public officials to prioritise national interest and generational impact over personal ambition.
She expressed gratitude to PDP leaders, colleagues, and constituents for the trust reposed in her, and called for the gender imbalance left by her departure to be urgently addressed.
“My exit leaves a gap in women’s representation. I urge the leadership to fix this disparity to preserve inclusion and diverse perspectives in governance.”
Reflecting on her achievements, Oligbi-Edeko described her journey as inspiring and fulfilling, underpinned by her commitment to due process, integrity, and institutional development.
As Chair of the Assembly’s Tender Board Committee, she spearheaded reforms in procurement practices, aligning operations with the Edo Procurement Law to promote accountability and transparency.
“Together, we created procurement frameworks, ensured contract compliance, and enhanced transparency in all Assembly-related transactions,” she explained.
In closing, she apologised to anyone who might have been offended during her tenure, affirming that her decisions were guided by conscience and public service ideals.
“I want peace in life and in death, with honour preserved beyond the grave,” she said.
Oligbi-Edeko reaffirmed her commitment to public service and democracy, pledging to continue contributing to the state’s development from her current political platform.
