BENIN-CITY: The Edo State House of Assembly has elected Yekini Idiaye, the lawmaker representing Akoko Edo Constituency I, as its new Speaker following the resignation of Blessing Agbebaku.
Agbebaku’s resignation was formally announced and acknowledged by the House during plenary on Monday, August 17, 2026.
The sitting was presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Osamwonye Atu, who informed lawmakers that the House had received Agbebaku’s resignation letter.
Shortly after the announcement, the member representing Esan South East Constituency, Sunday Ojiezele, nominated Idiaye for the position of Speaker. His nomination was seconded by the member representing Owan East Constituency, Eric Okaka.
Idiaye was subsequently elected by the lawmakers and administered the oath of office by the Clerk of the House.
He immediately assumed duties as the new Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly.
The leadership change followed the unexpected resignation of Agbebaku, who had previously presided over the affairs of the legislative chamber.
The plenary session was not without a brief moment of tension, as a mild disagreement reportedly arose concerning the member representing Owan West Constituency. However, the situation was quickly brought under control, allowing the proceedings to continue.
With his emergence, Idiaye becomes the latest lawmaker to take charge of the Edo Assembly, where he will be expected to provide legislative leadership and coordinate the activities of the House.
The development has also placed renewed attention on the political dynamics within the Edo State legislature as lawmakers begin work under the new leadership.
