The Edo State political landscape has undergone a significant shift as four members of the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Their decision, driven by internal turmoil within their former parties, consolidates APC’s control over the legislative body and fortifies Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration.
The defecting lawmakers, Hon. Donald Okogbe (Akoko-Edo Constituency II), Hon. Bright Iyamu (Orhionmwon Constituency II), Hon. Sunday Ojiezele (Esan South-East) from the PDP, and Hon. Richard Edosa (Oredo West) from the Labour Party made the announcement on Wednesday, citing their commitment to stability and development under the APC-led government.
Hon. Edosa, speaking on behalf of the group, highlighted disunity within the PDP and LP as their primary reason for defecting. He affirmed their dedication to governance that prioritizes progress and effective leadership, aligning with Governor Okpebholo’s development vision.
“Both the PDP and Labour Party are riddled with internal conflicts at every level, creating an environment where effective governance is impossible. We want to be part of a system that fosters growth, and we see that in Governor Okpebholo’s leadership,” Edosa stated. “We are ready to work with him and President Bola Tinubu to build a stronger Edo State.”
The Minority Leader of the EDHA, Hon. Eric Allison Okaka (APC, Owan East), commended the defectors, attributing their decision to Governor Okpebholo’s strong leadership within his first 100 days in office. Their defection, he noted, significantly shifts the Assembly’s power dynamics in favor of the APC.
“Previously, we were in the minority, but with this defection, we now hold the majority in the House. This gives us the legislative strength to support the governor’s policies and drive meaningful development for the people of Edo State,” Okaka remarked.
Edo APC Chairman, Jaret Tenebe, officially welcomed the lawmakers at the party’s secretariat in Ikpopkan GRA, describing their move as a vote of confidence in Governor Okpebholo’s administration. He emphasized that the governor’s focus on economic growth, security, and social harmony has made the APC a magnet for progressive-minded politicians.
“The defection of these lawmakers underscores the credibility and effectiveness of Governor Okpebholo’s leadership. They recognize that the APC offers the best platform for real governance and development, and we are pleased to have them on board,” Tenebe said.
Tenebe also assured Governor Okpebholo and President Tinubu of the Edo APC’s commitment to delivering two million votes for the party in the 2027 general elections, positioning Edo as a key player in national politics.
“Edo State will be a decisive factor in 2027. We will mobilize the largest voter turnout for the president and ensure the APC remains dominant at all levels,” he declared.
Further escalating political tensions, Tenebe accused the PDP of fueling insecurity in the state, alleging that certain elements within the opposition were behind recent criminal activities, including kidnappings.
“The same PDP thugs who killed a policeman at the Benin Airport before the last governorship election are responsible for the ongoing wave of criminal activities. The firearms they acquired during the past administration are still in circulation, and they are using them to destabilize the state,” Tenebe alleged, calling on security agencies to take decisive action.
With the APC tightening its hold on the Edo State Assembly, the stage is set for a new era in the state’s governance. Political observers are keenly watching how this power shift will shape policies and governance in the months ahead.