With the defection of the Edo State House of Assembly Speaker, Blessing Agbebaku, and other Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday, the member representing Oredo East Constituency, Frank Omosigho, has reaffirmed his loyalty to PDP.

In a statement released in Benin yesterday, Omosigho said he remains an unwavering member of the PDP.
He said that despite speculations linking him and others to defection, it is important to clarify that he was absent from the venue where the Speaker and others pledged allegiance to the APC.

He said: “I stand by the party that gave me the platform to serve my people. The PDP remained the most viable vehicle for democratic growth and development in Edo State. I urge my constituents and supporters to disregard any misleading reports and remain steadfast in their support for our collective cause.”

MEANWHILE, while officially informing House members of his defection yesterday, the Speaker said he joined the APC to retain the benefits of the Office of Speaker for the development of his constituency.

He said: “I defected to the APC to retain the benefit of the Speaker’s seat for the development of my constituency. For me, it is not about the party but about the development of our area. As a 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.

“Distinguished members, I want to formally let this House know that yesterday, the Speaker of this House, Blessing Agbebaku, defected to the APC,” he said.

Agbebaku explained that his constituents were in support of his decision, noting: “There are ongoing developmental projects in Owan West Constituency initiated by Governor Monday Okpebholo.”

“So, my defection was not driven by personal gains but commitment to the welfare of those who elected me. Politics is all about interest, but not my interest, the interest of my people that gave me the mandate to be here today,” he added.