In a dramatic twist that underscored the evolving political landscape in Edo State, two suspended local government chairmen—Dickson Ahonsi of Owan West and Edosa Enowoghomenma of Ovia South West—have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) along with 13 councillors from their councils.
The defection, which took place on Friday, signaled a growing wave of realignments in Edo’s political scene ahead of anticipated local government and state-level contests.
Ahonsi, who led five councillors into the APC, was received by top party officials at the APC state secretariat in Benin City.
He cited Governor Monday Okpebholo’s developmental strides and inclusive leadership as key reasons for switching allegiance.
“I decided to join the APC because Governor Okpebholo has demonstrated a clear vision for Edo State.
His appointments so far and ongoing projects give us confidence that the state is in capable hands,” Ahonsi said.
In Ovia South West, Enowoghomenma and his eight councillors, including the Leader of the House, Nosakhare Edobor, were welcomed into the party by APC’s local government chairman, Emmanuel Ogbomo.
Ogbomo assured the defectors of equal treatment and promised to protect their interests within the party.
“The APC is a party of inclusion. As someone who also left the PDP after 20 years, I can assure you that your contributions will be valued here,” Ogbomo stated.
Enowoghomenma emphasized that their defection was driven by a desire to support the Okpebholo-Idahosa administration in delivering democratic dividends to their constituents.
“We see this move as a step towards unity and progress for Ovia South West. Working alongside Governor Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, who is one of our own, will enable us to attract development to our people,” he said.
Leader of the House, Edobor, dismissed speculations of coercion, insisting the decision was voluntary and motivated by the need to prioritize the interests of their communities.
The defection comes amid growing cracks within the PDP, following the APC’s victory in the 2024 governorship election.
Political analysts suggest it could trigger further defections as both parties prepare for future elections.
Meanwhile, Edo APC Secretary, Lawrence Okah, hinted at more defections in the coming weeks, describing the ruling party as a welcoming platform for progressive-minded individuals.
“Our doors remain open to all who believe in Governor Okpebholo’s vision of transforming Edo State. The APC is a party of growth and development,” Okah said.
The mass defection is already generating debates across the state, with supporters hailing it as a testament to APC’s rising popularity, while PDP loyalists dismissed it as political opportunism driven by personal interests rather than ideology.
As Edo’s political chess game intensifies, all eyes will be on the APC to see how it leverages this new wave of support to consolidate its hold on the state.