The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has dismissed the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s celebration of the alleged defection of the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, calling it “comical,” “misleading,” and “a public spectacle.”
In a strongly worded statement issued by Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, chairman of the PDP’s caretaker committee in the state, the party accused the APC of theatrics aimed at misleading the public and appeasing its national leadership. According to the PDP, Agbebaku’s loyalty to the APC had long been evident in his conduct, even before this week’s announcement.
“What played out in Benin City on Tuesday was not news—it was merely the official coronation of what had become a public secret,” the statement read. “It was a desperate spectacle designed to impress the President and the APC national leadership—an illusion worthy of a David Copperfield performance.”
The PDP also accused the Speaker of using his office to serve partisan interests. It cited his refusal to reinstate suspended local government council chairmen—mostly PDP members—even after the expiration of their suspension, describing his actions as a “clear partisan bias” and a subversion of democracy. The party alleged Agbebaku acted in concert with APC figures including Senator Monday Okpebholo.
Further rejecting claims made by the APC that 17 local government council chairmen had defected alongside Agbebaku, the PDP insisted these individuals were political appointees rather than elected officials. The party dared the APC to publicly name any legitimately elected PDP chairman who had officially joined the opposition.
The statement likened the APC to “a party of sorcerers,” accusing it of political deception, and compared its methods to the sleight-of-hand illusions of a stage magician.
Calling for calm among its supporters, the PDP reiterated its legal pursuit of the September 2024 governorship election outcome, which it claims was marred by “brazen manipulation.” Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the party’s gubernatorial candidate, has filed an appeal challenging the election tribunal’s validation of Senator Monday Okpebholo’s victory.
“To our members, supporters, and indeed all Edolites: remain resolute. Stay focused, united, and strong. Do not be distracted by the desperation of those who put personal gain above public good,” Dr. Aziegbemi urged.
The PDP concluded with a reassurance to Edo citizens that “joy is coming,” vowing that justice and political accountability would prevail.
