Former Edo Assembly Deputy Speaker Maria Edeko Defects from PDP to APC, Shifting House Balance

The political balance in the Edo State House of Assembly has tilted further in favour of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the defection of former Deputy Speaker, Maria Edeko, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Ms Edeko, who represents Esan North-East II constituency, was a key figure in the PDP-controlled legislature during the closing phase of former Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration and the early months of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s tenure.

Her defection was formally announced on Monday, 22 December, during plenary by the Speaker of the House, Blessing Agbebaku, who confirmed that Ms Edeko joined the APC at her ward in Esan North-East Local Government Area over the weekend.

With her switch, the APC now controls 22 of the 24 seats in the Assembly, leaving the PDP with just two lawmakers.

The remaining opposition members are Charity Ighodala, the minority leader representing Ovia North-East II, and Natasha Irobosa Osawaru, who represents Egor constituency.

Welcoming his former deputy into the ruling party, Mr Agbebaku said the move would place Ms Edeko and her constituents in a stronger position to benefit from government-backed development projects.

The Speaker has in recent weeks openly urged lawmakers to align with the ruling party, arguing that opposition status limits access to development opportunities for constituencies.

Speaking earlier this month while announcing the defection of Frank Omosigo, the lawmaker representing Oredo East constituency, Mr Agbebaku warned that remaining in opposition could hinder legislative effectiveness.

“It is very dangerous for a member of the House to be in opposition,” he said at the time. “Taking development to your area will be very difficult. It is not about you; it is about your people.”

Ms Edeko’s defection further consolidates the APC’s dominance in the Assembly and underscores the rapid political realignments reshaping Edo State’s legislative landscape ahead of future electoral contests.