First female speaker of Edo assembly steps down after 2 months

Elisabeth Ativie, first female speaker of the Edo state house of assembly, stepped down on Monday, while Justin Okonoboh (APC-Igueben) was sworn-in as the new speaker.

Ativie was sworn-in on the May 9 after Victor Edoror was impeached over alleged financial misappropriation.

The change of guard followed a motion on a matter of urgent public importance moved by Folly Ogedengbe (APC-Owan East), majority leader of the house.

Ogedengbe said the motion became imperative to create political balance in governance in the state, to reflect equitable representation of the three Senatorial Districts.

The majority leader, therefore, urged the house to suspend the house rules 1, 20, 22 and 73, to allow members effect the needed change in the leadership of the house.

Consequently, Okonobo got the support of 19 of the 24 lawmakers through voice votes.

His emergence as speaker balances the political equation with Adams Oshiomhole from Edo north, Pius Odubu, deputy governor Edo south, Godwin Obaseki, while APC governorship candidate, Edo south and his running mate, Philip Shaibu, from Edo north.

Okonoboh, in his acceptance speech, assured his colleagues to operate an all-inclusive administration and to retain all appointments made by the former speaker.

Ativie, while stepping down as speaker, thanked her colleagues and staff of the parliament for the support accorded her in the 10 weeks of her reign.

She said the change in leadership was without any external influence, but a reflection of members’ loyalty to the party.

Ativie is now the new deputy speaker of the house.