APC Gains Majority in Edo State House of Assembly as Four Lawmakers Defect

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally informed the Edo State House of Assembly of its new majority status following the defection of four lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP). The notification was conveyed in a letter addressed to Speaker Blessing Agbebaku, which was read during the plenary session on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.

The defecting lawmakers are Hon. Bright Iyamu (Orhionmwon II) and Hon. Chief Sunday Ojiezele (Esan South-East), both from the PDP; Hon. Roland Okogbe (Akoko-Edo II), also from the PDP; and Hon. Richard Edosa (Oredo West), who previously belonged to the LP. Their move has shifted the Assembly’s composition, granting the APC a 13-member majority, while the PDP’s representation has decreased to 11.

Speaker Agbebaku acknowledged receipt of the letter and confirmed that he would await further communication from the APC regarding the nomination of principal officers. He also extended best wishes to the defecting lawmakers, expressing hope for their success in their new political alignment.

Political Implications of the APC’s Majority Status

The APC’s newly acquired majority in the 24-member Assembly is expected to influence legislative activities, particularly in relation to the executive branch led by Governor Godwin Obaseki of the PDP. With the opposition now in control of the House, the passage of bills, budget approvals, and oversight functions may face increased scrutiny and potential roadblocks.

Historically, Edo State politics has been characterized by fierce rivalries between the APC and PDP, especially following Governor Obaseki’s defection from the APC to the PDP in 2020. The APC’s resurgence in the House could create a more adversarial relationship between the legislature and the executive, potentially leading to heightened political tensions in the state.

Reactions from Political Stakeholders

The defections have sparked mixed reactions from various political stakeholders in Edo State. APC leaders have celebrated the development, viewing it as a sign of growing confidence in the party’s leadership ahead of the upcoming gubernatorial elections. A senior APC member described the defections as a “turning point” in the state’s political landscape.

Conversely, PDP officials have condemned the defections, accusing the lawmakers of political opportunism. A PDP spokesperson stated, “These lawmakers were elected on the platform of the PDP and LP, and their decision to switch allegiance is a betrayal of the mandate given to them by the people.” The Labour Party has also decried the defection of its sole representative, arguing that it undermines democratic principles and voter trust.

Legislative Realignment and Potential Leadership Changes

With the APC now holding the majority, a leadership shake-up within the House of Assembly appears imminent. Speaker Blessing Agbebaku, who has remained neutral in his approach to governance, may face pressure to realign the House leadership in favor of the APC.

The APC’s notification letter hinted at forthcoming changes, stating that the party would inform the Assembly about the nomination of principal officers. This suggests that key leadership positions, including Majority Leader and Committee Chairmanships, could see new appointments favoring the All Progressives Congress. Political analysts predict that these changes will be pivotal in shaping legislative decisions leading up to the 2024 Edo State gubernatorial election.

Historical Context and the Future of Edo Politics

The Edo State House of Assembly has been a battleground for political influence in recent years. In 2020, tensions escalated when the APC accused Governor Obaseki’s administration of interfering in the Assembly’s affairs, describing such actions as unconstitutional. The current shift in majority status echoes past struggles for control within the House and highlights the fluid nature of Edo State politics.

Moving forward, the All Progressives Congress’s newfound dominance in the legislature could impact governance in the state, particularly in policy direction and executive-legislative relations. As the 2024 gubernatorial election approaches, both the APC and PDP are expected to intensify their political strategies, making the Edo Assembly a focal point of political maneuvering in the coming months.