The Edo State House of Assembly has officially reinstated two suspended lawmakers, Donald Okogbe and Adeh Isibor, after five months of suspension. This decision was announced during a plenary session held in Benin on Wednesday, marking the end of their lengthy absence from the legislative chamber.
According to reports, Okogbe, representing Akoko-Edo II under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and Isibor, an All Progressives Congress (APC) member representing Esan North-East I, were suspended alongside Bright Iyamu from Orhionmwon South on May 6. The suspension was a result of their alleged involvement in a plot to impeach the Speaker of the House and other key officers.
However, Bright Iyamu was recalled earlier, in June, after he was found to have shown remorse for his actions. The Speaker of the House, Blessing Agbebaku, confirmed this at the time.
At the Wednesday plenary, Agbebaku officially announced the recall of the two remaining lawmakers, Okogbe and Isibor, bringing an end to the suspension saga. “The House has agreed to recall the two suspended lawmakers,” he said during the session.
In addition to this significant development, Agbebaku took a moment to congratulate the newly elected governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, for his victory in the recently concluded governorship election. He described Okpebholo as a leader for all citizens of Edo State, not just for his political party, the APC. The Speaker expressed his hope that Okpebholo would not be misled by individuals with selfish motives.
Welcoming the members back after a long recess, Agbebaku thanked the legislators for their hard work in passing important bills and resolutions that have positively impacted the state. He emphasized the importance of unity and diligent service for the betterment of Edo State.
During the same plenary session, the assembly also approved a 57-sitting day calendar for the second quarter of the legislative session, signaling the assembly’s plan to continue with its legislative duties effectively.