By DADA AYOKHAI
The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku has urged his former party, the PDP, to focus on reviving the party instead of dwelling on his recent defection to the APC.
His recent defection caused a major political stir and unsettled many political figures in Edo State.
Some chieftains within the PDP are still struggling to come to terms with his departure .
In response to the sudden defection of the Speaker to the APC, the Edo PDP is attempting to regain its footing.
Since the announcement, various accusations have been directed at the Speaker, with one notable allegation relating to a betrayal of trust.
In particular, he has been accused of being an APC sympathiser while masquerading as a member of the PDP.
The Edo PDP chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, claimed that the actions of the Speaker had shown that he was heading to the APC even before the actual shift took place.
In swift response to these allegations, the Speaker firmly denied the claim of being an APC sympathiser.
He emphasised the years he dedicated to the PDP, asserting that he served as a rallying point for the party in Owan West, utilising his influence and resources to support the PDP during a time when political loyalty was particularly risky.
In a statement released by his office, the Speaker emphasised that the interests of Edo State are paramount, surpassing any other concerns.
He further accused his detractors of failing to understand how the legislative arm, which he leads, operates.
He asserted that Edo State cannot progress unless the legislature and the executive find common ground to work together for the benefit of the people.
The Speaker clarified that the harmonious relationship he has with Gov Okpeholo has been misinterpreted by his critics as merely serving the interests of the APC.
He accused the leadership of the PDP in the state of abandoning him when he faced challenges, leading him to feel politically isolated.
The Speaker lamented, “It is shameful that the PDP chairman would forget so soon how I was left to be harassed by thugs at the party secretariat without any so-called party members coming to my rescue”
He attributed the troubling situation within the PDP to the state party chairman’s failure to maintain order, which he believes has resulted in the exodus of party members.
The Speaker also shared his perspective on the national troubles within the PDP, suggesting that the party may struggle to withstand the political shifts occurring in the southern region of the country leading up to the 2027 general elections.
He described the PDP as “fragmented,” citing irreconcilable political differences among its leaders.
Using proverbs to illustrate his political struggles, the Speaker stated, “A man cannot wrestle twice and still claim a state of unpreparedness, nor can a fire be extinguished while remaining among the ashes.”
Regarding the suspension of the council chairmen under his watch, he explained that it was not solely his decision but a collective one made by the House, including inputs from some PDP members.
In a conclusive tone, he advised the PDP to move forward, just as he has with his own life.
Agbebaku Urges Edo PDP To Focus On Revival Of Party Not his Defection
