In a significant political reshuffle, the Edo State House of Assembly has removed Hon. Natasha Osawaru Irobosa widely known for her relationship with iconic Nigerian musician 2Baba (Innocent Idibia) from her position as Minority Leader.
The shake-up also affected other high-ranking members of the Assembly, including Hon. Charity Aiguobarueghian, who was serving as Majority Leader, and Hon. Yekini Idaiye, who held the position of Chief Whip. All three are members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Despite the sweeping changes, two PDP members, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku and Hon. Maria Edeko retained their seats as Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the House, respectively. However, their continued hold on these positions could be in jeopardy as the political dynamics within the Assembly shift.
The reorganization follows a letter submitted to the Assembly by Jarret Tenebe, the acting chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which appears to have catalyzed the leadership transition.
The APC recently secured a majority in the House after four PDP lawmakers defected to its ranks. This realignment tilted the balance of power and paved the way for APC members to assume key leadership roles.
Announcing the new appointments, the Speaker declared Hon. Ibhamawu Jonathan Aigbokhan, representing Esan West under the APC, as the new Majority Leader. Hon. Addeh Emakhu Isibor, representing Esan North-East I, was named Deputy Leader, while Hon. Lecky Hussein Mustapha, representing Etsako West I, emerged as the new Chief Whip all from the APC.
The Speaker further stated that the PDP would be required to submit a revised list of its principal officers, signaling a broader reconstitution of the House’s leadership structure.
While Agbebaku continues to serve as Speaker, he cautioned that no position is guaranteed, suggesting further political realignment could unfold in the coming days. His remarks have raised questions about the stability of the current leadership and the future configuration of power in the Assembly.
This development underscores the fluid and often unpredictable nature of party politics in Nigeria, particularly as the state gears up for the 2024 governorship election. Political analysts say the reshuffle may be a strategic move to consolidate power ahead of the contest.
