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 also saw the suspension of the former Speaker, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku.
Yekini was elected by a majority of members of the House during plenary in Benin City and was subsequently sworn in by the Clerk of the House, Alhaji Audu Yahaya Omogbai.
In his maiden address after assuming office, Yekini criticised the leadership of his predecessor, alleging that Agbebaku’s tenure was characterised by poor leadership and management.
He subsequently announced the dissolution of the leadership structure under the former Speaker and declared Agbebaku suspended pending the resolution of allegations against him.
The leadership changes also affected the Majority Leader, Hon. Jonathan Ibhamawu, representing Esan West Constituency, and his deputy, who were relieved of their 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.
The letter requested the replacement of the two principal officers with Hon. Inegbebor, representing Igueben Constituency, as Majority Leader, and Hon. Ojiezelen, representing Esan South East Constituency, as Deputy Majority Leader.
Following the changes, Yekini pledged to uphold fairness and justice in the discharge of his responsibilities as Speaker.
He said the new leadership would work towards strengthening the legislative arm of government and supporting efforts by the administration of Gov. Monday Okpebholo to deliver good governance and development to the people of Edo State.
The development comes against the backdrop of concerns over frequent and prolonged adjournments by the House in recent times.
