The Edo State House of Assembly has witnessed a significant shift in its political landscape, as the immediate Deputy Speaker, Hon Maria Edeko, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This development was announced by the Speaker of the House, Hon Blessing Agbebaku, during the plenary sitting on Monday, December 22, 2025.
Hon Maria Edeko, who represents the Esan North-East II constituency, held the position of Deputy Speaker in the previously PDP-dominated House during the latter part of former Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration and the early period of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s tenure. Her defection has altered the political balance in the House, with the APC now boasting 22 members, while the PDP has only two remaining members: Hon Charity Ighodala, the minority leader representing Ovia North-East II, and Hon Natasha Irobosa Osawaru, representing Egor constituency.
According to Speaker Agbebaku, Hon Maria Edeko’s defection to the APC occurred in her ward in Esan North-East Local Government Area over the weekend. Agbebaku welcomed his former deputy to the party, noting that her constituents are likely to benefit from her decision, as they will now have access to more dividends of democracy.
This development is not an isolated incident, as the Speaker had previously cautioned members of opposition parties about the potential difficulties they may face in attracting development to their constituencies. On December 15, 2025, Agbebaku announced the defection of Hon Frank Omosigo, representing Oredo East constituency, to the APC, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing constituents’ interests above personal interests.
The shift in the political landscape of the Edo State House of Assembly may have significant implications for the state’s governance and development. As the APC consolidates its majority, it is likely that the party will play a more dominant role in shaping the state’s policies and initiatives. The remaining PDP members will likely face challenges in promoting their party’s agenda and interests in the House. The defection of Hon Maria Edeko and other lawmakers may be a sign of the evolving political dynamics in the state, and it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the lives of Edo State’s citizens.
