Blessing Agbebaku, the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly on Tuesday led 17 Local Government Chairmen, numerous councilors, and several notable members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, Fred Itua made this known in a statement, disclosing that the Speaker’s move was aimed at aligning with Governor Okpebholo to fast-track development across the State.
The party’s National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, while receiving the defectors on behalf of the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, assured of equal opportunities within the APC, emphasizing the significance of their defection as a milestone for the party’s
Among those who decamped with the Speaker are Hon. Sunny Ifada, Hon. Yekini Idiaye, former Deputy Speaker Hon. Roland Asoro, former House Majority Leader Hon. Nosa Nosayaba, and former PDP State Secretary Gabriel Oloruntoba, among others.
Governor Monday Okpebholo welcomed the new entrants into the APC fold, promising that the State is on a path to accelerated growth with the full backing of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Edo is witnessing unprecedented development because we have a president who believes in our people. From roads to flyovers, education, youth employment, and agriculture, we are investing massively to ensure food security and economic stability,” the governor stated.
He further declared that Edo would play a leading role in ensuring President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. “We will lead the South-South in supporting Mr. President. We have the structure and the momentum, and we will launch this mission from Edo State,” he affirmed.
Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, commended the Speaker’s return to APC as a homecoming, describing Agbebaku as one of the original builders of the party in the state.
“This defection is a testament to the governor’s impressive performance. Out of 24 Assembly members, APC now holds 18 seats, providing the needed legislative support to move the state forward,” Oshiomhole said.