By kawaekwune Jeffrey
The Edo State House of Assembly on Wednesday formally recalled two suspended lawmakers, Honorable Donald Okogbe and Honorable Adeh Isibor, who have been on suspension for five months.
The Assembly also used the occasion to congratulate the State Governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo on his victory at the just concluded Edo governorship election.
Recall that the suspension of the recalled lawmakers which was initiated on May 6, was tied to allegations of an alleged plot to impeach the Speaker and other principal officers of the House of the Assembly.
The Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly, Hon Blessing Agbebaku announced the recall of Okogbe and Isibor on Wednesday during the assembly’s plenary session in Benin City.
He said: “After due deliberation and extensive discussions, we have agreed to recall our colleagues, Donald Okogbe and Adeh Isibor, from their suspension.
“Their return marks the end of this chapter, and we hope for unity moving forward.”
The Speaker also used the opportunity to extend his congratulations to the state’s governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo, following his victory at the recently concluded governorship election.
Agbebaku stated: “Monday Okpebholo is the governor-elect for all Edo people, not just for the All Progressives Congress (APC). I urge him to be cautious of sycophants and to lead with fairness and inclusivity,”
It would be recalled that the lawmakers in question, Okogbe (PDP-Akoko-Edo II), Isibor (APC-Esan North-East I), and Bright Iyamu (Orhionmwon South), were earlier suspended following serious allegations leveled against them bordering on plot to undermine the Speaker and other principal officers of the House.
Recall that Iyamu was earlier reinstated in June after reportedly showing remorse, as confirmed by Agbebaku.
The New Diplomat reports that the suspended lawmakers’ reinstatement followed persistent calls for reconciliation by stakeholders in the state, urging the assembly to foster peace among its members.
During the plenary, the speaker used the opportunity to thank the lawmakers for their diligent work and dedication, especially regarding the passage of impactful bills and resolutions before the assembly went on recess.
He said: “I commend you all for your hard work in ensuring that we pass bills that will benefit the people of Edo State. Our unity and dedication remain essential to this institution,”
The Edo State House of Assembly also approved a 57-sitting day calendar for the second quarter of its second session, with plans to continue its legislative duties.
