Why I Joined APC – Esosa Iyawe Explains Defection from Labour Party
Esosa Iyawe, the House of Representatives member representing Oredo Constituency in Edo State, has explained that his decision to leave the Labour Party (LP) and join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was driven by his personal political interests.
Iyawe, along with three other LP lawmakers, cited ongoing leadership crises within the party and the numerous court battles it faces as the main reasons for their defection to the APC.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Iyawe, who is serving his first term in the 10th National Assembly, revealed that after careful reflection and consultations with his family and constituents, he decided to make the switch. He emphasized that the ongoing leadership turmoil and uncertainty within the Labour Party had left him dissatisfied and uncertain about the party’s future stability.
“I am formally resigning from the Labour Party (LP) with immediate effect. This decision follows extensive reflection on my personal values and the current state of Nigerian politics. The Labour Party’s failure to establish a legitimate Caretaker Committee at both the national and state levels, coupled with the constant leadership conflicts and persistent court cases, has left me and many of my supporters confused about the party’s direction,” Iyawe stated.
He further cited his constitutional right to freedom of association as the basis for his defection, declaring his allegiance to the APC, whose values, he said, align more closely with his political vision.
“I hereby announce my defection from the Labour Party (LP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). After consultations with my family and supporters, I believe the APC’s ideas and ideology better resonate with my political aspirations,” he explained.
Iyawe also expressed gratitude to the Labour Party for the platform it had provided him and acknowledged its role in Nigeria’s democratic progress.
“I thank the leadership and members of the Labour Party for the support and opportunities they gave me during my time with the party. I leave with gratitude and respect for the party’s contributions to our democracy. I remain committed to serving my constituents and believe this move will enhance my ability to deliver more effectively,” Iyawe concluded.
