The Senator representing Edo South, Neda Imasuen, has announced his intention to leave the Labour Party (LP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on 12 June, attributing his decision to the prevailing disarray within his current party.
Speaking in Benin on Sunday to mark his second year in office, Imasuen who chairs the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions explained that the move is intended to better align Edo South with federal development plans under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He described the defection as a strategic, rather than opportunistic, move, and listed several of his legislative and constituency achievements. These include sponsoring the Federal College of Education, Abudu (Establishment) Bill, and facilitating the resolution of more than 20 public petitions.
Imasuen also cited the implementation of vocational training programmes, agricultural support schemes, and rural initiatives such as the training of traditional birth attendants. Scholarships, he noted, have been awarded to students within his senatorial district.
“I will be leaving the Labour Party for the APC, as the current disorganisation in the LP will not help me achieve my goals for my constituents,” he said.
“My move will also enable Edo South to align more effectively with the federal government and attract developmental benefits to our people.”
Also Read: Edo Assembly Speaker Defects to APC, Cites Developmental Strides
Reflecting on the challenges associated with sustaining constituency projects, the senator called for improved cooperation from local government authorities. He reiterated his commitment to healthcare, youth empowerment, and rural development, while expressing strong support for President Tinubu’s administration.
Under his leadership, he revealed, more than 20 public petitions from across the country have been successfully addressed. “These interventions have significantly impacted the lives of ordinary Nigerians,” he said.
Imasuen also emphasised his work in promoting agriculture, which he described as the backbone of national survival. Several agricultural programmes have been rolled out in Edo South to train farmers in modern methods and equip them with necessary tools.
“We have focused on crops such as rubber, cocoa, and cashew,” he added. “Many farmers have shared testimonies of increased yields due to our efforts.”
