Edo Speaker Agbebaku Explains Defection to APC
Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, has explained the reasons behind his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC),Daily Trust reports.
Agbebaku, along with two other lawmakers—Hon. Sunday Fada Eigbiremonlen and Hon. Idaiye Yekini Oisayemoje—officially joined the APC on Tuesday. On Wednesday, he formally announced his defection during a plenary session of the House.
Speaking on the floor of the Assembly, Agbebaku stated that his decision was motivated by the need to retain the benefits and influence of the Speaker’s position in order to drive development in his constituency.
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“I defected to the APC to retain the advantages of the Speaker’s office for the development of my constituency,” he said. “For me, this move is not about political affiliation but about ensuring progress in my area. If I sacrifice this position for party loyalty and lose the chance to bring development to my people, then I am failing in my duty to serve them.”
Agbebaku emphasized that his constituents supported his decision, citing ongoing developmental projects in the Owan West constituency under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
“My defection was not about personal gain, but about fulfilling my commitment to the people who elected me. Politics is driven by interest—but in this case, it’s not about mine. It’s about the interests of my constituents,” he added.
