Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Edo State House of Assembly has witnessed a major leadership shake-up, with Honourable Natasha Osawaru, the wife of legendary Nigerian singer Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, emerging as the new Minority Leader of the House. The lawmaker, who represents Egor Constituency, was appointed to the position during a plenary session on Monday, August 17, 2026, following a comprehensive reshuffle of the Assembly's principal leadership. Her emergence came on the platform of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), a party she joined after defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in May 2026.
The leadership change was triggered by the resignation of Speaker Blessing Agbebaku, who stepped down amid alleged moves by lawmakers to impeach him. He was subsequently replaced by Yekini Idiaye, the member representing Akoko Edo II Constituency. With the new Speaker in place, the Assembly also effected changes in the minority leadership, with Osawaru replacing Charity Iguodala, who had represented Ovia North-East I Constituency. Frank Omosigho, representing Oredo West Constituency on the NDC platform, was elected as the new Minority Whip.
Osawaru, who previously served as Deputy Majority Leader, has been described by colleagues as a legislator focused on grassroots development, parliamentary debate, and youth and women empowerment. Her elevation is seen as a reflection of the confidence reposed in her by fellow lawmakers and constituents alike. In a statement shared on her Facebook page, she described the appointment as more than a title, calling it a trust placed in her by the people. "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," she said. She reaffirmed her commitment to the development of Edo State, the progress of the NDC, and the prosperity of the people of Egor Constituency.
Osawaru's political journey has been marked by a significant realignment. She was among three Edo Assembly lawmakers who defected from the PDP to the NDC in May 2026, a move that bolstered the NDC's presence in the House. Her appointment as Minority Leader solidifies her position as a key opposition figure in the Assembly. The development comes amid ongoing public interest in her personal life, particularly her marriage to 2Baba, which has been the subject of recent media speculation. However, her political rise appears to have continued independently of the marital drama.
Osawaru married 2Baba in July 2025, following the singer's separation from his former wife, Annie Macaulay Idibia. The couple welcomed their first child together and held a dedication ceremony for the child in February 2026. Her emergence as Minority Leader adds a new dimension to her public profile, positioning her as a leading voice of the opposition in Edo State's legislative chamber. As she takes on this new responsibility, the people of Egor Constituency and the wider Edo State will be watching to see how she wields the influence and trust that her colleagues and constituents have placed in her.
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