Hon. E. Yekini, representing Akoko-Edo Constituency I in the Edo State House of Assembly, has emerged as the new Speaker of the House following a leadership shake-up that led to the suspension of his predecessor, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku.
Hon. Yekini was elected by a majority of lawmakers during plenary in Benin City and subsequently sworn in by the Clerk of the House, Alhaji Audu Yahaya Omogbai.
In his maiden address after assuming office, the new Speaker criticised the leadership of Agbebaku, alleging that his administration was characterised by poor leadership and ineffective management of the House.
Hon. Yekini subsequently announced the dissolution of the leadership structure constituted under his predecessor and declared Agbebaku suspended pending the resolution of allegations against him.
The shake-up also affected the Majority Leader, Hon. Jonathan Ibhamawu, representing Esan West Constituency, and his deputy, who were removed from their respective positions.
Their removal followed a letter from the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jarrett Tenebe, which was received by the House.
In the letter, Tenebe requested the replacement of the two principal officers, nominating Hon. Inegbebor, representing Igueben Constituency, as the new Majority Leader and Hon. Ojiezelen, representing Esan South East Constituency, as Deputy Majority Leader.
Following his emergence, Yekini pledged to uphold fairness, justice and transparency in the discharge of his responsibilities as Speaker.
He said the new leadership would focus on strengthening the legislative arm of government and supporting the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo in its efforts to promote good governance and accelerate development across Edo State.
The leadership changes come against the backdrop of concerns over the frequent and prolonged adjournments of legislative proceedings by the House in recent times, which have raised questions about the effectiveness and productivity of the Assembly.
The new leadership is expected to restore stability to the House, improve legislative productivity and ensure that the Assembly effectively performs its constitutional responsibilities of lawmaking, representation and oversight.
