A member of the House of Representatives representing Oredo Federal Constituency in Edo State, Esosa Iyawe, has resigned from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing unresolved political differences within the party.
Iyawe disclosed his resignation in a letter dated Wednesday, May 7, addressed to the APC ward chairman in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State.
In the letter, the federal lawmaker explained that his decision followed what he described as irreconcilable differences between him and Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo.
He also announced plans to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), marking a new phase in his political journey ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the lawmaker, the decision was reached after careful reflection and consideration. Despite his exit, he expressed appreciation to the APC for the opportunity to serve under the platform of the ruling party.
Defection Linked to Ongoing Political Realignments
The resignation comes amid increasing political alignments and defections ahead of the next general elections, as politicians across different parties continue consultations over future political structures.
The development also follows recent political discussions surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s reported directive granting state governors significant influence over party primary processes in their respective states.
Reactions Trail Iyawe’s Exit From APC
The lawmaker’s resignation has generated mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media, with many expressing different opinions about his political movement.
Some critics accused the federal lawmaker of switching political platforms for personal political survival rather than ideological conviction.
Others referenced his previous political association with the Labour Party and questioned his consistency, especially amid the changing political landscape ahead of 2027.
A social media user, identified as Fadoro Tobi, criticised the move, alleging that politicians often abandon the mandate given to them by voters in pursuit of political advantage.
Another commenter, Itse, argued that the lawmaker’s latest defection was linked to concerns over securing political tickets within the APC.
Others also claimed that politicians frequently move between parties depending on prevailing political opportunities and electoral calculations.
Wave of Defections Continues in National Assembly
The latest resignation adds to the growing list of defections currently reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape.
Recently, several lawmakers in both the Senate and House of Representatives reportedly dumped their former political parties amid the ongoing coalition talks and party restructuring ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political observers believe the coming months may witness more defections and strategic alliances as parties prepare for future contests across the country.
