Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese, on Tuesday, announced his defection from the ruling All Progressives Congress to the opposition Labour Party, a move that has generated reactions within the National Assembly.
Agbese, who represents Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, formally announced his defection during Tuesday’s plenary following the House’s resumption.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who read Agbese’s letter, said the lawmaker attributed his exit from the APC to lingering internal crises within the party.
Agbese, however, reaffirmed his support for President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stating that his constituency remains aligned with the vision and that he would continue to support it.
Reacting, Speaker Abbas expressed surprise at the development, noting that no lawmaker had left the APC for another since the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly.
“Honourable colleagues, we have the first member of the 10th House of Representatives leaving the majority party to join the Labour Party. Members of the Labour Party should please appreciate him,” Abbas said.
Agbese, in a chat with newsmen shortly after, said his decision was driven by the interests of his constituents, dismissing speculations linking his defection to a governorship ambition in Benue State.
The lawmaker explained that the move followed consultations with his people, who opted for a new political direction under the Labour Party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Agbese also pledged loyalty to the Labour Party leadership, including its National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, and acknowledged Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, as a key leader of the party.
He stressed that his focus would be on strengthening the party in Benue and mobilising support for future elections, rather than engaging in political conflicts.
On why he did not join the African Democratic Congress, despite its leadership having roots in Benue South, Agbese said the decision was based purely on the preference of his constituents, whom he described as strongly aligned with the Labour Party.
He revealed that within days of commencing registration in his constituency, the Labour Party recorded over 10,000 new members, surpassing other parties in the area.
While acknowledging his position as a leading figure in the party in Benue, Agbese ruled out any immediate governorship ambition, saying the party would present another candidate for the position when the time comes.
He also reaffirmed his loyalty to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, describing him as a mentor and benefactor.
According to him, his defection was not influenced by individuals or political pressure but by the collective will of his constituents, whom he said he remains committed to serving.
