The Edo State House of Assembly has experienced a notable shift in its political landscape following the defection of Deputy Speaker Hon. Maria Edeko from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The announcement was made by House Speaker Hon. Blessing Agbebaku during a plenary session on Monday, 22 December 2025. Hon. Edeko, who represents the Esan North‑East II constituency, served as Deputy Speaker in a previously PDP‑dominated House during the latter part of former Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration and the early months of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s tenure.
Edeko’s departure has altered the balance of power in the Assembly. The APC now holds 22 seats, while the PDP is reduced to two members: Hon. Charity Ighodala, the minority leader from Ovia North‑East II, and Hon. Natasha Irobosa Osawaru of the Egor constituency. According to Speaker Agbebaku, Edeko’s switch to the APC took place in her ward in Esan North‑East Local Government Area over the weekend. He welcomed her to the party, suggesting that her constituents stand to gain from greater access to democratic dividends.
This is not an isolated incident. Earlier, on 15 December 2025, Speaker Agbebaku reported the defection of Hon. Frank Omosigo, representing Oredo East, to the APC, emphasizing that legislators should prioritize their constituents’ interests over personal ambitions. The Speaker had previously warned opposition members that they might encounter difficulties attracting development to their constituencies.
As the APC consolidates its majority, it is poised to play a more dominant role in shaping Edo State’s policies and initiatives. The remaining PDP members are likely to face challenges in advancing their party’s agenda within the House. The defections of Hon. Maria Edeko and other lawmakers signal evolving political dynamics in the state, and their impact on the lives of Edo State’s citizens remains to be seen.
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