On resumption back to plenary, the Edo State House of Assembly, has deliberated on two major executive bills aimed at strengthening economic planning and enhancing regulation within the state.
During plenary, lawmakers considered the bill seeking to establish the Edo State Economic Planning and Development Council. The bill, which scaled its second reading, received unanimous support as members noted its importance in boosting internally generated revenue, promoting even infrastructural development across all Local Government Areas, and creating employment opportunities for citizens.
The House referred the bill to the Committees on Finance and Economic Planning and on Local Government for further legislative work, with a report expected in two weeks.
The Assembly also deliberated on the bill proposing the establishment of the Edo State Housing Estate and Real Estate Regulatory Agency. The Majority Leader, Hon. Jonathan Ibhamawu, emphasized the challenges caused by unregulated real estate agents, who often complicate rental processes and increase housing costs. Hon. Dr. Edosa Richards, representing Oredo West, further highlighted the prevalence of agent-related extortion, especially in the GRA area of Benin City.
After extensive debate, the bill was thereafter referred to the Committee on Commerce, Urban and Regional Planning for final inputs, with a two-week deadline for submission of its report.
In addition, The Speaker Rt.Hon Blessing Agbebaku announced that the Assembly will hold a public investigative hearing on the findings of two ad hoc committees probing the construction of the Museum of West Africa Art (MOWA) and the Radisson Blu Hotel. The hearing is scheduled for Thursday and Friday, November 20 and 21, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at the Edo State House of Assembly Complex in Benin City.
The Speaker reaffirmed that the legislative actions taken reflect the commitment of the Edo State House of Assembly to addressing economic and regulatory challenges while ensuring transparency, accountability, and good governance.
The Speaker also on behalf of the 8th Edo State House of Assembly Congratulated the Governor Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo for his one year in office, commending him for various achievements he has recorded in the State from Edo South,to Edo Central and Edo North senatorial districts with equitable distribution of People oriented and developmental projects.
The House subsequently adjourned sitting to Wednesday, 19th November, 2025.
