The Edo State House of Assembly has officially reinstated two suspended lawmakers, Donald Okogbe and Adeh Isibor, after a five-month suspension. The suspension of the two lawmakers, along with Bright Iyamu, occurred on May 6, 2024, following accusations that they were involved in a conspiracy to impeach the Speaker and other principal officers of the assembly. However, Iyamu was reinstated earlier in June after showing remorse for his involvement in the plot.

Donald Okogbe, a member representing Akoko-Edo II under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Adeh Isibor, representing Esan North-East I under the All Progressives Congress (APC), were among the lawmakers accused of undermining the leadership of the Edo Assembly. The alleged plan to impeach the Speaker, Blessing Agbebaku, alongside other key officials, led to their suspension.

The suspension created tension within the assembly, as the lawmakers had been tasked with significant legislative duties. Okogbe and Isibor’s absence was felt, and there were growing calls for their reinstatement as the assembly resumed its plenary sessions.

In June, Bright Iyamu, who was also suspended, was the first to be reinstated after publicly expressing remorse for his actions. The assembly leadership acknowledged his apology and allowed him to return to his legislative duties. However, Okogbe and Isibor’s suspension remained in place until Wednesday, when the Speaker announced their recall at the resumption of the plenary session in Benin.

During the plenary session, Speaker Blessing Agbebaku officially declared the recall of Donald Okogbe and Adeh Isibor. This decision was seen as a move toward fostering reconciliation and restoring unity within the Edo Assembly. The Speaker emphasized that the assembly had agreed to reinstate the lawmakers to allow them to continue serving their constituencies.

In his speech, Agbebaku also congratulated Monday Okpebholo, the governor-elect of Edo State, on his recent victory in the governorship election. Agbebaku stressed that Okpebholo’s role is not just to serve the interests of the All Progressives Congress (APC), but to govern fairly for all Edo people, regardless of political affiliation. He also cautioned the governor-elect to be wary of sycophants who might try to influence his decisions for personal gain.

The recall of the suspended lawmakers is a significant step toward stabilizing the Edo State House of Assembly. With Okogbe and Isibor back in their legislative seats, the assembly can move forward with a complete team of representatives, working on key issues affecting the state.

Speaker Agbebaku used the plenary session to commend the lawmakers for their dedication and hard work, especially in passing important bills and resolutions during the assembly’s previous sittings. He acknowledged their efforts in ensuring that the assembly continues to make impactful decisions for the benefit of Edo citizens.

As part of the plenary proceedings, the assembly also approved a 57-day sitting calendar for the second quarter of its second session. This calendar outlines the assembly’s legislative activities over the next several weeks, indicating a busy schedule ahead as lawmakers return to work after a long recess.

The decision to recall Okogbe and Isibor highlights the assembly’s commitment to unity and progress. The Edo Assembly has faced challenges in recent months, including internal conflicts and political rivalries, but the leadership’s focus on reconciliation is seen as a positive step toward restoring order.

With the governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo, set to take office soon, the cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government will be crucial in driving development in Edo State. The Speaker’s remarks during the plenary suggest that the assembly is eager to work with the new governor for the benefit of all citizens.

The reinstatement of Okogbe and Isibor ensures that their constituencies will continue to have representation in the assembly, as the state’s lawmakers work together to address pressing issues and improve governance in Edo State.

As the assembly resumes its full legislative functions, it is expected that the coming weeks will see the passage of several important bills and resolutions aimed at improving the lives of the people of Edo State. The recall of the suspended lawmakers marks a turning point for the Edo Assembly, signaling a renewed commitment to effective governance and the promotion of unity within the house.

The assembly’s efforts, combined with the upcoming administration of Governor-elect Monday Okpebholo, create an atmosphere of hope for continued progress in Edo State.