Four Edo Lawmakers Dump Parties for APC

Four members of the Edo State House of Assembly have officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), increasing the party’s strength in the state legislature.

The defecting lawmakers; 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) made the announcement during a formal reception at the APC Secretariat in Benin City on Wednesday. The event was led by the acting APC State Chairman, Jarret Tenebe. This move shifts the balance of power in the House, with the APC now holding 13 seats compared to the 11 of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The Labour Party, which previously held one seat, has lost its sole representative to the APC.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Hon. Edosa said that the divisions within their former parties at both the national and state levels were central to their decision to switch allegiance. “A house divided against itself cannot stand,” Edosa said. “We believe in the vision of Governor Monday Okpebholo and have decided to join him in working towards a stronger Edo State.”

In his response, APC’s acting chairman, Jarret Tenebe, welcomed the lawmakers and assured them of equal treatment within the party. He commended their decision, describing it as a positive step for both the APC and Edo State. 

The defection has boosted the APC’s numbers in the House, positioning the party to exert greater influence over legislative affairs in the state.

As part of the ceremony, each of the new APC members was presented with a broom, the party’s symbol, signifying their official membership in the party.