Winds of Change in Edo Politics
Edo State witnessed a dramatic political shift on May 6, 2025, as several high-profile political figures.
Including the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The move comes amidst rising developmental achievements in the state under Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration.
This political exodus marks a pivotal moment in Edo’s political narrative, reflecting a realignment of loyalties driven by visible progress and strategic leadership.
The defection not only boosts the APC’s influence in the state but also signals a possible future where is governance and development dictate political allegiance.
Key Defectors: A Growing Wave
Among those who abandoned the PDP for the APC were:
Speaker Blessing Agbebaku (Owan West Constituency)
Yekini Idaiye (Akoko-Edo I)
Sunny Ifada (Esan Central – Governor Okpebholo’s constituency)
Suspended local government chairmen
Numerous councilors
Former lawmakers such as Hon. Roland Asoro (former Deputy Speaker)
Hon. Nosa Nosayaba (former Majority Leader)
Gabriel Oloruntobi (a notable PDP chieftain)
Their mass defection has significantly altered the makeup of the Edo State House of Assembly, giving the APC a commanding majority of 18 out of 24 seats.
APC’s Reception: Equal Opportunities and Open Arms
The National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, through the party’s National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, received the defectors during a ceremonious gathering.
He stated, “I welcome you on behalf of the National Chairman of the APC and the National Working Committee.
Today is a significant moment not just for the APC, but for the future of Edo State.
You’re not joining a party; you’re joining a movement of progress.”
Bashiru also reiterated that all defectors would enjoy equal treatment and opportunities, assuring them that the APC does not discriminate between old and new members.
The Driving Force: Governor Okpebholo’s Achievements
The decision by many to abandon the PDP was heavily influenced by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s impressive achievements within a relatively short time in office.
He has prioritized:
Road construction and rehabilitation, including smoother access to Ekpoma
Timely salary payments to public workers
Ongoing school renovations and educational reforms
Creation of job opportunities for youth
Agricultural investments to ensure food security
These developmental strides have boosted public confidence and inspired many political figures to switch allegiance in order to support the momentum.
Governor Okpebholo, while addressing the crowd, emphasized unity and collaboration, saying, “We are building a new Edo one that serves the people, not just the party.
We are setting the pace for the entire South-South region.”
A Political Earthquake: Strategic Implications for 2027
This strategic alignment comes with clear political undertones as the APC begins laying the groundwork for the 2027 general elections.
The governor was direct in his commitment:
“2027 is not just possible; it is certain. Edo will lead the charge in the South-South to return President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
We’re not only developing infrastructure; we’re developing political will and capacity.”
Oshiomhole’s Support: “They’re Coming Home”
Former Governor of Edo State and current senator for Edo North, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, lent his voice to the moment, calling Speaker Agbebaku’s defection “a return home.”
“Blessing Agbebaku was part of the founding fabric of APC in 2007.
His return is symbolic it means this house is solid.
With 18 members now in the APC, legislative support for the governor’s initiatives will be stronger and more effective,” Oshiomhole said.
He encouraged the people of Edo to continue supporting Governor Okpebholo for continuity and further transformation.
Speaker Agbebaku: “We’re With the People Now”
In a passionate address, Speaker Agbebaku explained the reason behind the mass defection:
“We could no longer remain in a ship that is clearly sinking.
The PDP has lost its purpose, its structure, and most importantly, its people.
We are joining the APC to align with a government that delivers results.
Governor Okpebholo is working for the people, and we want to work with him.”
Agbebaku promised loyalty and vowed to contribute constructively to the state’s development, assuring the governor and party leaders of their unwavering commitment.
The Domino Effect: PDP’s Crumbling Structure
With this wave of defections, the PDP in Edo State appears to be in disarray.
Losing influential lawmakers, party chieftains, and grassroots politicians within a single sweep has not only weakened the party’s legislative strength but also cast doubts on its relevance ahead of future elections.
The defections, many believe, are just the beginning. Political analysts predict more exits in the coming weeks as the APC continues to consolidate its power.
Development As the Uniting Force
Governor Okpebholo’s strategy is simple but effective deliver results.From urban infrastructure to rural agriculture, the changes are visible.
Flyovers are emerging in city centers.Farm inputs are reaching remote villages.
Youths are getting jobs. Schools are being renovated.
“When governance works, politics aligns,” said one APC leader. “These defections are not just political calculations; they’re acknowledgments of real progress.”
Political Realignment in the South-South
Edo’s shift could influence neighboring states.
As the only South-South state currently under APC control, Edo may become a rallying point for further political reorientation in the region.
If Governor Okpebholo succeeds in using development to build political capital, Edo could lead the APC’s South-South campaign in 2027.
It also offers a blueprint: win loyalty by improving lives, not just canvassing votes.
A Message to the People: “This Is Just the Beginning”
Governor Okpebholo closed the event with a call to action:
“Let this day be remembered as the day we chose unity over division, progress over stagnation, and people over politics.
We’re just getting started. Together, we will build a state where everyone counts.”
He thanked the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for giving Edo full support and promised that the state would deliver results that would serve as a model for others.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Governance in Edo
With 18 out of 24 lawmakers now in the APC, and high-profile figures rallying behind Governor Okpebholo, Edo State is entering a new phase of governance.
The transition has been peaceful, strategic, and development-driven.
It shows that when leadership delivers on its promises, loyalty follows.
It also reaffirms the belief that development remains the most powerful political strategy.
As the countdown to 2027 begins, all eyes are on Edo not just as a political battlefield, but as a symbol of what happens when progress takes center stage.
Stay informed with NIGPOST as we continue to cover the evolving political landscape in Edo and across Nigeria.
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