Edo Speaker, 17 Council Chiefs Defect To APC

The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, led 17 local government chairmen, councillors, and some members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The Speaker said the move was aimed at aligning with Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo to fast-track development across the state.

Receiving the defectors on behalf of the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, the party’s National Secretary, Ajibola Bashiru, assured them of equal opportunities within the APC, stressing the significance of their defection as a milestone for the party’s consolidation in Edo State.

Okpebholo welcomed the new entrants into the APC fold, promising that Edo State is on a path to accelerated growth with the full backing of President Bola 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 State 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 added.

Speaking, Bashiru commended Okpebholo for his leadership, particularly for ensuring regular salary payments and infrastructural renewal such as the ongoing road projects in Ekpoma.

He noted that the wave of defections signifies a shift in political tides and reflects growing confidence in the APC-led administration.

Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, described the Speaker’s return to the APC as a homecoming, saying Agbebaku is one of the original builders of the party in Edo State