By Tony Osauzo, Benin City
The new Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Kabiru Adjoto, Tuesday presided over the plenary session of the House, with 18 lawmakers in attendance.
Adjoto, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), representing Akoko-Edo Constituency 1, emerged as speaker on Monday after he was elected by 16 members of the house in the aftermath of the impeachment of the former speaker, Justin Okonoboh (APC) representing Igueben constituency, his deputy speaker, Elizabeth Ativie (APC), Uhunmwode and the majority leader, Foly Ogedengbe (APC), Owan East constituency.
The impeached three principal officers were absent at Tuesday’s sitting.
Also absent was Magnus Ezehi-Igbas (PDP) representing Esan North-East 11, who was suspended for three months for allegedly attempting to obstruct the impeachment of the erstwhile speaker.
Other members absent were Audu AbdulGaniyu (APC), Etsako West 1 who sent an apology and Chris Okaeben (APC) Oredo West who was absent without any reason.
During the session, Adjoto commended the members of the house for the new leadership and assured that they will provide purposeful and proactive leadership to ensure that members legislate for the betterment of the entire people of the state.