Edo Assembly Confirms Four Commissioners, Extends Legislative Calendar

The Edo State House of Assembly, at its plenary on Wednesday, confirmed four commissioner nominees forwarded by Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo.

Those confirmed are Hon. Barr. Uwadia Osas Vincent, Hon. Ikpommwosa Etinosa Ogbewi, Hon. Saturday Idenen Uwuilekhue (J.P), and Hon. Charity Amayaenvbo.

Presenting the screening report, the Majority Leader, Hon. Jonathan Ibhamawu (Esan West), recalled the governor’s letter of August 25, 2025, nominating the commissioners. He said the House Committee on Rules, Business and Government House screened the nominees and found them qualified for confirmation. The Assembly unanimously adopted the resolution, making them commissioners-designate.

At the same sitting, lawmakers also extended the Business Calendar for the first quarter of the 8th Assembly’s third session. Ibhamawu explained that while the Constitution requires at least 181 sitting days annually, the Assembly had initially scheduled fewer sittings. The extension added 13 more days, shifting the end date to September 17, 2025.

The House also debated a bill to protect government property and establish the Edo State Property Protection Committee. Introducing the bill, Ibhamawu lamented the illegal sale of public assets, citing an Esan West hospital land allegedly sold to private individuals. Speaker Rt. Hon. Blessing Sheriff Agbebaku backed the bill, recalling how a public school in his constituency was converted into a private church. The bill was unanimously supported and referred to the Committee on Security, with a two-week deadline for report submission.

Another bill, presented by Ibhamawu, sought to amend the law on order of precedence and protocol at official functions. He said disregard for protocol had led to confusion at events when seats reserved for lawmakers were taken by unauthorized persons. Supporting the bill, Hon. Dr. Richard Edosa (Oredo West) stressed that protocol is essential for order, hierarchy, and smooth conduct of public engagements.

Meanwhile, Speaker Agbebaku announced the 34th anniversary of Edo State, congratulating Governor Okpebholo on his achievements and pledging the Assembly’s continued support.

The House adjourned sitting to September 8, 2025.