The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally notified the Edo State House of Assembly that it now holds the majority, a development confirmed by Speaker Blessing Agbebaku during Tuesday’s plenary session. The shift in power dynamics stems from the defection of four lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) to the APC.
The letter, addressed directly to Speaker Agbebaku and titled ‘Notification of APC majority status in the Edo State House of Assembly,’ was read aloud during the session.
“We write to inform you that APC has achieved majority status in the House following the defection of several members from the PDP and LP,” the letter stated. “Hon. Bright Iyamu of Orhionmwon II, Hon. Richard Edosa of Oredo West, Hon. Chief Sunday Ojiezele of Esan South East, and Hon. Roland Okogbe from Akoko-Edo are now APC members.”
The letter further indicated that the APC would soon communicate the implications of this change. “At the appropriate time, we will notify your office of the consequential effects resulting from this change in the House,” it added.
Speaker Agbebaku acknowledged receipt of the communication from the APC secretariat. “Distinguished members, as you heard, the letter confirms APC now holds the majority in the House,” he stated, also wishing the defecting lawmakers well in their future political endeavors.
He also indicated his anticipation for further communication from the APC regarding leadership positions. “We await further letters of nomination of their principal officers,” Agbebaku said.
With the addition of Hon. Bright Iyamu (Orhionmwon II), Hon. Richard Edosa (Oredo West), Hon. Chief Sunday Ojiezele (Esan South East), and Hon. Roland Okogbe (Akoko-Edo), the APC now controls 13 seats in the 24-member House. The PDP’s representation has subsequently decreased to 11.
The defection marks a significant turning point for the Edo State Assembly, potentially impacting future legislative agendas and political alliances within the state. All eyes are now on the APC to see how they will leverage their newly acquired majority and who they will nominate for principal officer positions.
