Mr Blessing Agbebaku, the former Chief of Staff to the immediate past Speaker of Edo State Assembly, Marcus Onobun, has emerged as the speaker of the 8th Assembly.
Agbebaku (PDP-Owan West) was made speaker on Friday shortly after a letter of proclamation of the assembly by Governor Godwin Obaseki was read on the floor of the House by the Clerk, Mr Yahaya Omogbai, in Benin.
Also, Mrs Maria Edekor (PDP-Esan North East II) was elected as the Deputy Speaker of the House.
24 members-elect were also inaugurated into the 8th assembly.
In his acceptance speech which was made after taking his oath of office, Agbebaku promised a unified assembly that would move the state to greater heights through effective legislation.
He appreciated God for his protection and guidance throughout the electoral process and for his emergency as the speaker.
He expressed gratitude to his colleagues for giving him the privilege and for believing in his capacity and competence to serve as speaker.
“Choosing me to lead this assembly is a great honour and privilege bestowed upon me with a sense of responsibility and acceptance.
“I will not take this position for granted. I will carry everyone along irrespective of their political affiliations.
“I commend the 7th assembly for setting the template in legislative activities which has placed the assembly on the right track.
“I assure all that we will put Edo people first as we perform our oversight functions and make the state great again,” he said.
Agbebaku thanked Gov. Obaseki and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, for leading the party in the right direction.
