Yekini Idiaye, representing Akoko-Edo Constituency I, has emerged as the new Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly.
Idiaye, a third-term lawmaker, was elected to lead the Assembly following the resignation of Blessing Agbebaku, who stepped down as Speaker on Monday amid moves by lawmakers to impeach him.
The emergence of Idiaye was reportedly influenced by the Assembly’s zoning arrangement, which stipulates that when the governor is from Edo Central Senatorial District, the Speaker should come from Edo North.
Idiaye, being the longest-serving member from Edo North, was subsequently elected Speaker.
Speaking after his emergence, the new Speaker said that without the zoning arrangement, the Deputy Speaker would have automatically succeeded Agbebaku.
According to reports, members of the Assembly visited the Edo State Government House to formally inform Governor Monday Okpebholo of the leadership change.
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Meanwhile, Agbebaku’s resignation followed alleged moves by lawmakers to remove him from office.
Agbebaku’s resignation was confirmed by his media aide, Ivy Ebojele, who said further details would be made public.
“I can confirm the Speaker’s resignation but details will be made public later,” Ebojele said.
