The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Mr. Blessing Agbebaku, has explained his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing the need to preserve his position and continue developmental efforts in his constituency.
Agbebaku, along with two fellow lawmakers; Hon. Sunday Fada Eigbiremonlen and Hon. Idaiye Yekini Oisayemoje, formally defected to the APC on Tuesday.
While addressing members of the House on Wednesday, Agbebaku made his reasons clear: “I defected to the APC to retain the benefit of the speaker seat for the development of my constituency.”
He emphasized that his switch was motivated by service, not party loyalty.
“For me, it is not about the party but about the development of our area. As a speaker, if I throw away this position because of the party, the position that would enhance development in my area, it means that I am not ready to serve my people,” he said.
Addressing the assembly formally, he stated: “Distinguished members, I want to formally let this House know that yesterday, the Speaker of this House, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, defected to the APC.”
According to him, the move was endorsed by his constituents.
“There is ongoing developmental projects in Owan West constituency initiated by Governor Monday Okpebholo,” he noted.
Agbebaku stressed that his defection was not rooted in personal ambition, but in commitment to his people.
“So, my defection was not driven by personal gains but commitment to the welfare of those who elected him. Politics is all about interest, but not my interest, the interest of my people that gave me the mandate to be here today,” he added.
