Edo Assembly Speaker Quits as 18 Lawmakers Plot His Removal, New Leader Takes Over

High-stakes political drama unfolded at the Edo State House of Assembly as Speaker Blessing Agbebaku tendered his resignation just hours ahead of an impending impeachment vote.

Agbebaku’s decision to step down came after learning that 18 out of the 24 state lawmakers had already signed a petition seeking his immediate removal. With statutory rules requiring a two-thirds majority—equivalent to 16 members—to unseat a presiding officer, the signatures effectively sealed his political fate. His media aide, Ivy Ebojele, confirmed the development online, signaling a major shift in the state’s legislative leadership.

Following Agbebaku’s exit, lawmaker Yekini Idiaye, who represents Akoko-Edo Constituency 1, was sworn in as the new Speaker of the Assembly. Although standard assembly procedures typically elevate the Deputy Speaker upon a Speaker’s departure, lawmakers bypassed that route to preserve Edo State’s power-sharing arrangement. Under the zoning formula, the Speakership is designated for Edo North since Governor Monday Okpebholo hails from Edo Central. Being the most ranking member from the northern district, Idiaye assumed the role.

Addressing reporters shortly after taking charge, the new Speaker cited severe leadership flaws as the driver behind the house’s swift action. Idiaye leveled heavy allegations against his predecessor, pointing to poor management, corruption, and arbitrary month-long adjournments that stalled legislative business and hindered executive progress. He assured residents that under his leadership, the Assembly will work closely with the state government to accelerate development across Edo State.