In a significant political shift, the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, along with two other lawmakers, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move increases the APC’s representation in the 24-member Assembly to 18 seats, solidifying its majority.
The defection was announced during a gathering in Benin City, where APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, welcomed the new members on behalf of the party’s National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje. Bashiru praised Governor Monday Okpebholo for his leadership, attributing the party’s growing influence in Edo to the governor’s developmental initiatives, including infrastructure projects and timely salary payments.
Former Edo State Governor and current Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, described Agbebaku’s return to the APC as a homecoming, noting his foundational role in the party’s establishment in the state. Oshiomhole expressed confidence that the APC’s strengthened position would facilitate the governor’s agenda and contribute to President Bola Tinubu’s re-election prospects in 2027.
Governor Okpebholo commended the defectors for their decision, emphasizing the state’s ongoing development and the importance of unity in achieving further progress. He called on all Edo residents to support the APC’s efforts to advance the state’s growth and ensure continued federal support.
Speaker Agbebaku, speaking on behalf of the defectors, cited the governor’s achievements as a key factor in their decision to join the APC. He encouraged remaining PDP lawmakers to consider aligning with the ruling party to collectively drive the state’s development.
With the APC now holding a commanding majority in the Edo State House of Assembly, the party is poised to implement its legislative agenda more effectively, setting the stage for intensified political activity leading up to the 2027 general elections.
