By DADA AYOKHAI
In a rare display of integrity and honour, qualities increasingly scarce within the political sphere, the Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Mrs. Maria Omozele Edeko, has taken the bold step of resigning from her position.
Her courageous action has continued to garner widespread recognition for the Edo Central district lawmaker, who is now heralded as a “principled politician” by a diverse group of her constituents.
Following her resignation, Hon. Maria Omozele Edeko has promptly returned to her role as an member of the House, a position she held before she was elected Deputy Speaker.
She was replaced by Hon Osamwoyi Atu ,member representing Orhionmwon East Constituency in Edo South Senatorial district.
Hon. Omozele Edeko’s resignation took many by surprise.
Speculations are rife that her resignation may not be unconnected with the current dynamics within the PDP in the Assembly, as the party’s majority has diminished recently due to several defections, including that of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku.
In a terse statement that was read on the floor of the House, Hon. Omozele Edeko stated that her decision to resign was propelled by her desire to uphold her integrity, safeguard our vibrant democracy, and facilitate equitable power sharing among the senatorial districts in the state
She further emphasised that her resignation came after thorough consultations with her constituency and key stakeholders
Expressing her apologies to anyone who may have felt slighted during her tenure or those who perceive her decision to resign as “sudden,” Hon. Omozele Edeko declared, “I hereby voluntarily resign with utmost humility from the office of Deputy Speaker, an honour bestowed upon me by your grace. I trust this decision will foster peaceful coexistence in our state and enhance governance and democracy not only in Edo State but in Nigeria as a whole.”
The moment her resignation broke, her kinsmen swiftly showered her with accolades for maintaining her integrity amid the tumult within the PDP in the state.
Observers unanimously hailed her as “courageous”
Still, some even labelled her action as “principled,” noting that she could have easily defected to the ruling APC to hang onto her position. Instead, she chose to resign, effectively sidestepping the usual chaos that accompanies such moves.
One of her constituents, Mr. Egbefueire Khueire, praised her bravery, declaring that the Esan nation stands proud of her decision.
Reflecting on her exceptional tenure as Deputy Speaker, Mr. Egbefueire pointed out how she served as the “stabiliser” during tumultuous times in the House.
He remarked that individuals of her calibre are rare and expressed hope that others would follow her exemplary lead.
Esan Pour Encomium on Edeko for Relinquishing Deputy Speaker’s Seat With Honor
