Why I chose my position as Speaker over allegiance to PDP – Agbebaku

By Jethro Ibileke

The Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, has revealed that his decision to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was motivated by the desire to retain his position in the Assembly.

Agbebaku made this disclosure on Wednesday, explaining his reasons for dumping the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the platform through which he was elected.

This comes after Agbebaku led four other PDP lawmakers to defect to APC on Tuesday.

He emphasized that his move was not about party allegiance but rather about fostering the growth and progress of his constituency.

Agbebaku pointed out that his constituents supported his decision, citing ongoing developmental projects in Owan West initiated by Governor Monday Okpebholo.

“For me, it is not about the party but about the development of our area,” he stated.

“As 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 explained.

“On that note, I took that decision, and I think to a large extent, my people are happy about it.

“I spoke about some of the projects the governor has taken to my area yesterday, and the people of Owan West are very happy.”

The Speaker stressed that his defection was not for personal gain but was driven by a commitment to the welfare of his constituents.

“Politics is all about interest: not my interest, but the interest of my people that gave me the mandate to be here today,” he said.

Agbebaku also reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining unity within the House, underscoring the importance of having opposition members.

He assured that the House would continue to collaborate in the best interest of the people of Edo State.

Concluding his remarks, Agbebaku downplayed the significance of party affiliations within the Assembly, saying:

“To me, there is no party in this House. We are all working with the governor to take the state to the next level so that the people will enjoy the dividends of democracy. So, the issue of party affiliations should not arise.”