Gale of defection descended on the Edo State House of Assembly as the Majority Leader, Donald Okugbe (PDP-Akoko-Edo II), and three other lawmakers on Wednesday. This is as the lawmakers defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
With the defection, the equation of the balance in the House has changed. The APC now has 13 members and the Peoples Democratic Party, 11.
Report gave the names of the other lawmakers who also defected as Bright Iyamu (PDP-Orhionmwon South II), Richard Edosa (PDP Oredo West), and Sunday Ojezele (LP Esan Southeast).
The lawmakers, cited deep political division and unresolved crises within the PDP as reasons for their defection.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Edosa described the move as a “defining moment”.
According to him, we believed in the vision of Governor Monday Okpebholo. And we are committed to working with him to advance the State’s development.
Welcoming the defectors into the party State Chairman, Tenebe praised their decision. He said their decision to join the APC was a bold step toward a better future for Edo State.
The party Chairman pointed out that they would enjoy equal rights and privileges like every other member of the party.
Tenebe, while praising their courage, noted that their defection has strengthened the party’s collective resolve. He noted that the party is working to improve governance, security, and economic development in the State.
The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that the event was capped with a symbolic handing over of APC brooms to the defecting lawmakers. A symbol that marked their official entry into the ruling party.