Maria Omezele Oligbi-Edeko, who served as the Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, has resigned from her position.

She announced her decision during a meeting in the Assembly on Monday, May 19, 2025, in Benin City, the capital of Edo State.

Her resignation came after her political party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), lost its majority in the House. This happened because several PDP members, including the Speaker, switched to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Oligbi-Edeko was chosen as the Deputy Speaker on June 16, 2023, and served in that role until her recent resignation.

After she stepped down, the House members voted and elected Mr. Osamwonyi Atu of APC, who represents Orhionmwon East, as the new Deputy Speaker.

Shortly after, the Majority Leader, Hon. Jonathan Aigbokhan, suggested that Oligbi-Edeko should still receive all the benefits that come with the office of the Deputy Speaker.

The Minority Leader, Hon. Charity Airobarueghian, supported the idea, and other members of the Assembly agreed by a voice vote.

In her resignation letter, Oligbi-Edeko explained that she stepped down to promote justice, fairness, and equality for all parts of the state.

She also thanked PDP leaders and members for trusting her with the chance to represent her people in the Assembly.

Her fellow lawmakers praised her for her hard work and strong commitment to public service.