By Ogochukwu Isioma, in Benin City
Two opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers in the Edo State House of Assembly, on Friday, defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The lawmakers are Eugene Inegbeboh, member representing Igueben constituency and Andrew Uzamere, who represents Ovia North East II constituency.
The defection added to the PDP’s loss in the ninth assembly, significantly reducing the party’s legislative strength from the initial 15 to 4. APC now has 20 members.
Reacting to the news of the defection, the APC, in a statement by its State Publicity Secretary, Barr. Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie welcomed the lawmakers into its fold which he described as a “progressive and people-oriented party.”
According to him, “This move is not only significant but symbolic — a clear and final testament to the crumbling edifice of the PDP in Edo State.”
The statement read in part, “With the departure of these lawmakers, it is evident to even the most casual observer that the PDP has lost every strand of credibility, cohesion, and relevance. What remains of the party in Edo State is but a shadow of its former self directionless, divided, and disconnected from the people.
“We commend the courage and political foresight of the honourable members who have chosen to join the moving train of progress, accountability, and people-driven governance under the visionary leadership of our dynamic Governor, His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo.
“Their decision reaffirms what the people of Edo already know, that the APC is the only party with the structure, capacity, and sincerity to deliver real dividends of democracy.
“Under Governor Okpebholo, Edo State is already experiencing a rebirth from the revitalisation of public infrastructure to the restoration of dignity in governance. His style of leadership continues to attract men and women of integrity, even from opposition parties who can no longer ignore the glaring truth: the future of Edo is in safe hands with the APC.
“We assure the new members of full integration and cooperation as they contribute their experience and strength to building a better Edo State. The APC remains a big, accommodating family for all well-meaning Edo sons and daughters who are ready to place the people first.
“The decamping of these lawmakers is not just a political shift, it is the final nail in the coffin of a party that once was. PDP has been rejected by the people, deserted by its key players, and now stands as a hollow structure with no ideological grounding or vision.
“Edo State has spoken. The tide has turned. The APC is the party of the people, and we are marching forward.”
