Four members of the Edo State House of Assembly have officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), altering the balance of power within the legislative body. The lawmakers who made the switch include Hon. Donald Okogbe (PDP, Akoko Edo), Hon. Bright Iyamu (PDP, Orhionmwon), Hon. Sunny Ojiezele (PDP, Esan South East), and Hon. Richard Edosa (LP, Oredo West).
This move has bolstered the APC’s position in the 24-member House, granting the party a majority with 13 seats, while the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) now holds 11 seats. The Labour Party (LP), which previously had representation through Hon. Edosa, no longer has a presence in the Assembly.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Hon. Richard Edosa cited internal divisions within the PDP as a key factor influencing their decision. “The PDP is deeply fractured at all levels—national, state, and local government. We believe in unity and progress, which is why we have chosen to align with the APC and Governor Monday Okpebholo’s vision for Edo State,” he stated.
The APC leadership, represented by House Minority Leader Eric Okaka and APC Chairman Jaret Tenebe, welcomed the defectors with open arms. They praised the lawmakers’ decision as a testament to Governor Okpebholo’s leadership and commitment to development. “This defection is a strong endorsement of the governor’s agenda. Together, we will work to build a better Edo State,” Tenebe remarked.
Political analysts have noted that while defections are not uncommon in Nigerian politics, the timing and scale of this shift are noteworthy. The move comes amidst growing tensions on the ongoing Edo Election Petition Tribunal by the PDP, challenging INEC’s declaration of Monday Okpebholo and the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the September 21, 2024 governorship election.
