The Edo State House of Assembly has witnessed a major leadership shake-up following the resignation of its Speaker, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku.
Agbebaku’s resignation came amid reports that he could face impeachment during Monday’s plenary.
However, before any impeachment proceedings could commence, the Speaker tendered his resignation and subsequently confirmed the decision on the floor of the House.
Following the resignation, the Deputy Speaker, Osamwonye Atu, who presided over the transition plenary, formally acknowledged the development.
Member representing Esan South-East Constituency, Hon. Sunny Ojiezele, thereafter moved a motion nominating the member representing Akoko-Edo One, Hon. Yekini Idiaye, as the new Speaker.
The motion was seconded by the member representing Owan East, Hon. Eric Okaka.
Idiaye was subsequently sworn in and immediately assumed the leadership of the 8th Assembly.
In his first major action as Speaker, Idiaye accused his predecessor of corruption and incompetence and ordered his suspension and immediate investigation.
He also directed the removal of all political appointees attached to the office of the former Speaker and ordered the withdrawal of their privileges.
The leadership changes extended to other principal offices of the Assembly.
The Speaker read a letter from the All Progressives Congress announcing new nominations for the Majority and Deputy Majority Leader positions.
Ojiezele was nominated to replace Hon. Jonathan Ibamawu as Majority Leader, while Hon. Ajay Inegbedion of Igueben was nominated to replace Hon. Ade Isibor as Deputy Majority Leader.
Hon. Natasha Osawaru emerged as the new Minority Leader, replacing Hon. Charity Aiguobarueghian, while Hon. Uyi Frank of Oredo East takes over as Deputy Minority Whip.
The House subsequently adjourned to Tuesday, August 18, 202