I’m Not Chasing A Title’ — Natasha Reveals Meaning Behind Her Edo Minority Leader Role

The lawmaker representing Egor Constituency, Natasha Osawaru, has described her emergence as the new Minority Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly as a responsibility built on trust rather than a mere title.

Natasha, a member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), assumed the position following a recent reshuffling in the Assembly and the resignation of former Speaker Blessing Agbebaku.

Reacting to her new role in a statement posted on her Facebook page, Natasha said the position comes with a responsibility to uphold democratic values and represent the interests of ordinary citizens.

“This new responsibility is not a title; it is a trust. Our democracy thrives on rigorous debate, accountability, and the courage to advocate for the ordinary citizen without compromise.”

Her emergence comes amid major leadership changes in the Edo State House of Assembly.

Agbebaku resigned as Speaker on Monday following an alleged move by 18 lawmakers to impeach him. He later explained that he decided to step down after being asked to do so in the interest of peace in the state.

His resignation was announced during plenary, after which Yekini Idaiye, representing Akoko-Edo I Constituency, was elected as the new Speaker.

Addressing lawmakers after his resignation, Agbebaku said he was willing to step aside rather than become an obstacle to peace in the state.

“I agree with all of you. The process is that today I have been asked to resign. Because of that, I was supposed to lead the procession here to resign on the red chair.”

He added:

“I was not born to be a speaker. I think today I am standing here as a hero.”

The leadership changes have resulted in a fresh configuration of principal officers in the Edo State House of Assembly, with Natasha now taking on the role of Minority Leader.