By Ayodele Quadri, Lagos Times Correspondent
BENIN CITY, NIGERIA — Newly elected Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Yekini Idiaye, has revealed why lawmakers moved against his predecessor, Blessing Agbebaku, forcing his resignation.
Addressing journalists shortly after plenary on Monday, August 17, 2026, Idiaye cited poor leadership, financial corruption, and erratic adjournments as the core reasons behind the decision by Assembly members to initiate impeachment proceedings that led to Agbebaku’s exit.
Core Allegations Raised by Lawmakers
-
Alleged Corruption: Idiaye stated that the 8th Assembly had faced persistent corruption issues under Agbebaku’s tenure since its inauguration on June 16, 2023.
-
Prolonged Adjournments: The new Speaker complained about frequent, uncalled-for legislative halts, alleging that plenary was sometimes adjourned for up to 30 days without cause, hindering government business.
-
Slow Pace of Legislation: Idiaye noted that the previous leadership style was actively drawing the progress of the state government backward.
-
Impeachment Pressure: Prior to the resignation, 18 out of the 24 lawmakers had already signed an impeachment notice against Agbebaku—exceeding the required two-thirds majority (16 members).
