Oredo Constituency Representative, Esosa Iyawe, Defects from Labour Party to APC Citing Leadership Crisis
Esosa Iyawe, the House of Representatives member representing Oredo Constituency in Edo State, has announced his defection from the Labour Party (LP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Iyawe stated that his decision was motivated by his political interests and concerns over the leadership crisis within the Labour Party.
Iyawe, alongside three other LP members in the House, recently joined the ruling APC, attributing their move to ongoing internal disputes and court cases within their former party.
Leadership Crisis and Consultations
In a statement released on Thursday, Iyawe explained that his defection came after extensive consultations with his family, supporters, and constituents. He highlighted the Labour Party’s instability and its inability to resolve disputes concerning the party’s leadership at the national and state levels.
“My decision to resign from LP is as a result of the party’s inability to declare who should emerge as the legitimate Caretaker Committee from the National to State levels. Moreover, due to the incessant tussle rocking the leadership of the party and the numerous perpetual court cases, my supporters and I are in a state of confusion as to the party’s stability,” he said.
Citing his constitutional right to freedom of association, Iyawe declared his alignment with the APC, stating that its ideals better align with his political aspirations and ideology.
Gratitude to the Labour Party
Despite his defection, Iyawe expressed gratitude to the Labour Party for providing him with a platform to launch his political career.
“I thank the leadership and fellow members of Labour Party (LP) for the support, collaboration, and opportunities provided to me during my membership. I leave with gratitude and respect for the party’s efforts and contributions to our democracy,” he said.
Commitment to Constituency
Iyawe emphasized that his move to the APC was aimed at improving his service delivery to the people of Oredo Constituency. He assured his constituents of his continued dedication to their welfare.
“I hereby re-emphasize my resolve to continue my service and representation to my people, as this decision will certainly improve my past performance at all levels,” he added.
Background
Iyawe, a first-time lawmaker in Nigeria’s 10th House of Representatives since the country’s return to democratic rule in 1999, joins the ranks of other politicians who have recently defected from opposition parties to the ruling APC, often citing internal crises and ideological differences.
The defection underscores the growing instability within the Labour Party, which has faced several legal battles and leadership challenges since its stronger-than-expected performance in the 2023 general elections.
