Edo State House of Assembly impeaches former Speaker Blessing Agbebaku

The Edo State House of Assembly has formally impeached its former Speaker, Blessing Agbebaku, effectively reversing his recent resignation. Lawmakers argued that because Agbebaku’s resignation was not officially presented or documented following his indefinite suspension, the House converted the matter to a formal impeachment. The impeachment notice was reportedly signed by 17 of the 24 members.

Yekini Idaiye, representing Akoko-Edo Constituency I, has been elected as the new Speaker. Following the decision, the House directed Agbebaku to return all government property in his possession, with warnings that security agencies would be engaged if he fails to comply. The leadership changes also included the removal of Majority Leader Jonathan Ibhamawu and Deputy Majority Leader Addeh Emankhu Isibor.

In separate legislative developments, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo signed the Edo House of Assembly Funds Management Bill 2023 and the State Judiciary Financial Autonomy 2023 Amendment Bill into law. The signing occurred amid protests from the Judicial Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) regarding changes to financial autonomy. The Governor stated the legislation is necessary to ensure government resources are directed toward capital projects and to maintain the constitutional separation of powers.