In a significant political development, the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Mr. Blessing Agbebaku, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The move, announced earlier today, dramatically shifts the balance of power in the state legislature.
Mr. Agbebaku, who assumed the Speakership under the PDP on June 16, 2023, attributed his decision to Governor Monday Okpebholo’s focus on constituency development initiatives. “I defected to retain the benefits of the speakership seat for the development of my constituency. As Speaker, relinquishing this position solely due to party allegiance would be a disservice to my constituents.” Agbebaku stated
His defection was accompanied by two other PDP members, Yekini Idiaye and Fada Sunday Igbiremonlen. This shift increases the APC’s representation in the Assembly to 18 seats, while the PDP’s dwindles to six.
The APC’s national leadership, including National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and National Secretary Senator Ajibola Bashiru, formally welcomed the defectors. Senator Bashiru hailed the defection as a crucial step in the APC’s efforts to consolidate its presence across Edo State. He further commended Governor Okpebholo’s administration for its commitment to good governance, citing the consistent payment of salaries and infrastructure development projects.
Governor Okpebholo himself welcomed the new members to the APC, pledging accelerated development for Edo State, bolstered by support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and ongoing federal initiatives. He highlighted ongoing investments in roads, flyovers, education, youth employment, agriculture, and food security. “Edo is experiencing real progress because of our president’s support for the people,” the Governor stated. He also affirmed Edo’s commitment to ensuring President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
Former Governor Adams Oshiomhole described Agbebaku’s return as a “homecoming,” acknowledging his early contributions to building the APC in Edo State. House of Representatives Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, lauded the decision as strategic for political balance and stability within the APC structure in Owan and throughout the state. The defection is expected to have significant implications for the political landscape of Edo State in the lead-up to future elections.
