House of Representatives Deputy Spokesperson Philip Agbese Resigns from APC to Join Labour Party in Benue Political Shift

Reps deputy spokesperson Philip Agbese dumps APC for Labour Party, citing a call for sincere service. He is now the highest-ranking LP official in Benue.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 31, 2026, 9:13 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Daily Post Nigeria

A Strategic Departure from the Ruling Party

The political landscape of Benue State has undergone a significant realignment following the resignation of a high-profile federal lawmaker from the All Progressives Congress. Philip Agbese, who currently serves as the deputy spokesperson for the House of Representatives, officially announced his exit from the APC on Tuesday. This move marks a notable loss for the ruling party’s caucus in the lower chamber and signals a growing shift in momentum toward the opposition as the 2027 election cycle approaches.

Answering the Call for Sincere Leadership

In a formal statement shared via his official Facebook page, Agbese characterized his defection to the Labour Party as a response to a "higher call" for sincerity and humility in public service. The lawmaker, who represents the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, emphasized that his new political home aligns more closely with his commitment to the people. He noted that he has been warmly received by his new colleagues in the House, describing the Labour Party as a "modest assembly of patriots" focused on national unity.

Acknowledging the Leadership of Senator Nenadi Usman

Agbese attributed his smooth transition partly to the leadership of the Labour Party’s National Chairman, Her Excellency Senator Nenadi Usman. He praised her "exemplary leadership mantra" as a guiding force in his decision to switch parties. By aligning himself with Usman’s administration, Agbese is positioning himself within the party’s reformist wing, which seeks to present a disciplined and inclusive alternative to the traditional dominant parties in Nigeria.