Edo assembly commutes speaker’s impeachment to resignation

The impeachment of Francis Okiye as speaker of the Edo state house of assembly, has been commuted to resignation.

Okiye was impeached on Monday over allegations of “high-handedness” following a motion moved by Henry Okhurabo, house majority leader, and seconded by Yekini Idaiye, lawmaker representing Akoko-Edo I.

He was also placed on a three-month suspension to allow for “a peaceful transition”, while Marcus Onobun, representing Esan west constituency, was sworn in as the new speaker.

Moving the motion for reversal of the impeachment on Wednesday, Okhurabo, representing Ikpoba Okha constituency, said the decision was a sign of respect for the people of Edo state.

“Mr Speaker, I want to sincerely crave your indulgence and the indulgence of all my colleagues that the said impeachment be commuted to resignation as a mark of respect to our constituents,” Okhurabo said.

Emmanuel Okoduwa, lawmaker representing Esan north II, seconded the motion, and it was supported by all members present at the plenary.

The suspension of the former speaker was also lifted.

Okiye, who joined the plenary immediately after the reversal of his suspension, expressed delight over the decision of the house, and said he’s ready to work for the good of his people.

Speaking with journalists after the sitting, Onobun explained that there was no rift between the house and the executive arm of government.

“I’ll like to urge every one of you to clear the erroneous impression that there’s crisis in the Edo state house of assembly. As you all are aware, the people who are standing here are not cartoon [figures]; these are members representing their various constituencies. We’re all here and there’s no dissenting voice,” he said.

“The issues that happened a few days ago have been laid to rest. We’re back to work for the betterment of the Edo people. The leadership of the house is intact. We’re in harmonious working relationship with the executive. There are no issues at all.”

Meanwhile, Okoduwa was appointed as the chief whip of the house.