In a dramatic twist that is set to redefine the political landscape of Edo State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially claimed majority status in the Edo State House of Assembly. This power shift comes on the heels of a significant defection of lawmakers from rival parties, signaling an imminent reshuffling of leadership positions within the Assembly.
Speaker of the House, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, confirmed on Tuesday that the APC has formally communicated its new standing to the Assembly. A letter submitted by the APC leadership notified the House of the party’s bolstered numbers, following the defection of four lawmakers previously aligned with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Although the contents of the letter were not disclosed to the public, its implications are far-reaching and have set the political class abuzz.
The lawmakers who switched allegiance from the PDP to the APC are Hon. Donald Okugbe (Akoko Edo Constituency II), Hon. Bright Iyamu (Orhionmwon South Constituency II), Hon. Richard Edosa (Oredo West Constituency), and Hon. Sunday Ojezele (Esan South East Constituency). Their defection not only tilted the balance of power but also left the PDP reeling, reducing its presence in the House to 11 members.
In a further blow to the opposition, the Labour Party lost its only seat, as its sole representative also crossed over to the APC. This development has brought the APC’s tally to a commanding 13 members in the 24-member Assembly.
The letter from the APC, titled “Notification of APC Majority Status in the Edo State House of Assembly,” formally informed the Speaker and the Assembly of the party’s ascension to majority control. It also hinted at future legislative moves, stating that the APC would provide further communication regarding “consequential actions” stemming from its new status.
Acknowledging the development, Speaker Agbebaku stated, “Going by this letter, it means APC now has a majority in the House.” He also extended goodwill to the lawmakers who defected, adding, “I want to wish the decampees well and I wish them good endeavours.”
With this shift, anticipation is mounting as the House awaits the APC’s next steps, including the formal nomination of its principal officers. This move is expected to trigger a significant leadership shake-up, which could alter the direction of legislative activities and policy priorities in Edo State.
Observers are closely watching how this change will affect governance and inter-party relations in the state, especially as the political temperature rises ahead of future elections. For now, Edo’s political chessboard has been reset, and all eyes are on the APC as it consolidates its newfound dominance in the House.
Stay with Hobnob News for updates on this developing story and more political insights from across the nation.
