The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, has resigned from office, saying he accepted the decision to step down in the interest of peace in the state.

Agbebaku announced his resignation during plenary on Monday, amid reports of moves by some lawmakers to remove him from office.

Shortly after his resignation, the Assembly elected Yekini Idaiye, representing Akoko-Edo I Constituency, as the new Speaker.

Explaining his decision, Agbebaku said he was asked to resign and chose to respect the decision, stressing that his priority was to ensure peace in Edo State.

“I was not born to be a speaker. I think today I am standing here as a hero,” he said.

The former Speaker also expressed appreciation to Governor Monday Okpebholo for his support during his tenure, saying he had no reason to resist the governor’s decision if it would help maintain peace in the state.

“We want peace in the state. And I have resigned,” Agbebaku added.

His resignation followed reported tensions within the Assembly and alleged moves by lawmakers to remove him. He was also reportedly accused of failing to facilitate the clearance of a governor’s nominee for an appointment, among other issues.

Following his exit, Deputy Speaker Osamwonyi Atu Osamwonyi presided over plenary, where Idaiye was nominated and elected Speaker with 17 of the 24 votes cast.

In his acceptance speech, Idaiye pledged to prioritise effective legislative practices and the interests of Edo people. He also criticised what he described as prolonged disruptions to plenary and unresolved legislative matters.

The new Speaker further alleged financial impropriety involving his predecessor, including claims concerning the procurement of Lexus 570 vehicles and Hilux vans, and called for the allegations to be investigated.