By Ogochukwu Isioma
Four members of the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), on Wednesday, defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing internal divisions within their former party.
The lawmakers include: PDP—Hon. Donald Okogbe (Akoko-Edo Constituency II), Hon. Bright Iyamu (Orhionmwon Constituency II), and Hon. Sunday Ojiezele (Esan South-East) as well as Hon. Richard Edosa (Oredo West) from the LP.
They pledged their commitment to working with Governor Monday Okpebholo to advance the development of Edo State.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Hon. Edosa stated that the deep-seated divisions within the PDP and the LP at all levels—national, state, and local government—left them with no choice but to seek a new political direction.
He emphasized their belief in unity and progress, which led them to align with the APC and Governor Okpebholo’s vision for a “rising Edo.”
“We need to let the world know that both the PDP and the Labour Party are plagued by divisions from the national to the local level. The party that gave us the platform to win elections also created an environment that made it necessary for us to leave,” he said. “We believe in the governor’s vision and that of the president, and we are ready to work with them to build a new Edo State.”
The Minority Leader of the EDHA, Hon. Eric Allison Okaka (APC, Owan East), commended the defectors for their bold step, attributing their decision to Governor Okpebholo’s performance within his first 100 days in office. He noted that their defection has shifted the Assembly’s power balance in favor of the APC.
“Before now, we were in the minority, but with this defection, we now hold the majority in the House. This strengthens our ability to work with the governor in ensuring Edo State progresses for the benefit of its people,” Okaka stated.
Receiving the defectors at the party secretariat in Ikpopkan GRA, Edo APC Chairman, Jaret Tenebe, described their decision as a strong endorsement of Governor Okpebholo’s leadership. He highlighted the governor’s commitment to economic prosperity, social harmony, and security as key factors that attracted the lawmakers to the APC.
“The defection of these lawmakers is a clear indication that Governor Okpebholo is delivering on his promises. They recognize that the APC provides a platform for progress and good governance, and we are proud to welcome them,” Tenebe said.
He added that the movement of the lawmakers to the APC was not just about increasing party numbers but about strengthening collective resolve and uniting capable individuals who will drive meaningful change.
“As a party, we are confident that our new members will play a significant role in the growth and development of Edo State,” he affirmed.
Tenebe also assured the governor and President Bola Tinubu that the APC in Edo State is committed to mobilizing two million voters ahead of the 2027 general elections to secure victory for the party at all levels.
“Edo State will deliver the highest number of votes for the president in 2027,” he declared.
The APC chairman further alleged that the PDP has been involved in orchestrating insecurity in the state, accusing its members of sponsoring criminal activities, including kidnappings. He called on security agencies to take decisive action against those responsible.
“The same PDP thugs who killed a policeman at the Benin Airport before the last governorship election are behind the current wave of criminal activities. The firearms procured for them by the past administration are still in circulation, and they are using them to make Edo ungovernable,” Tenebe alleged.
He urged law enforcement agencies to investigate and bring those responsible to justice, ensuring that peace and security prevail in Edo State.
