Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, on Friday apologised to leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress in Owan West Local Government Area amid efforts to reconcile with the party’s local leadership.

Agbebaku tendered the apology during an enlarged APC meeting held at the residence of party leader Lucky Ohimai, popularly known as Tarex.

The apology was reportedly one of the conditions set by party leaders for the Speaker to align with the APC structure in Owan West and be recognised as one of the aspirants seeking election into the state assembly.

Addressing party members, Agbebaku said he was committed to working with the APC leadership in the area and described past disagreements as the result of actions by overzealous supporters.

“I have never, and will not dispute his party leadership in Owan West,” he said while referring to Ohimai.

The Speaker also appealed for forgiveness from anyone he might have offended, saying he remained committed to the progress of the party and the people of the constituency.

Agbebaku further informed party members of his intention to seek re-election to the House of Assembly and appealed for their support.

However, members at the meeting reportedly rejected his request for automatic backing, insisting that he should compete alongside four other aspirants interested in the position.

Ward 11 Chairman, Lewis Ekpenga, said the party should consider other aspirants, citing Agbebaku’s political conduct before and after the 2024 governorship election.

Another party member, Johnson Abolagba, urged the state governor to support aspirants who remained loyal to the party during the 2024 election, mentioning figures including Frank Ilaboya, George Ohioma, Atafo Gold and Juliana Ikharo.