Governor Okpebholo’s Declaration of Confidence and Reception of PDP Defectors
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, brimming with confidence, boldly asserted the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s impending triumph in the forthcoming by-elections. This declaration, made public through a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, followed a significant event where the governor received a wave of defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at Okada, the administrative heart of Ovia North-East Local Government Area. The governor’s unwavering belief in the APC’s electoral success underscored his commitment to the people of Edo State and his deep-rooted connection to the region, emphasizing that his indigenous origins fuel his dedication to serving the populace.
Governor Okpebholo’s address to the gathering resonated with a strong sense of local pride and responsibility. He stressed his and his deputy’s Esan heritage, emphasizing their shared identity with the people they serve. This connection, he explained, is the driving force behind their relentless pursuit of development, exemplified by their continuous implementation of projects across the state. He contrasted his administration’s approach with the practice of some who only initiate projects during election periods, highlighting his commitment to consistent development rather than politically motivated gestures. This commitment, he believes, will resonate with the people and contribute to the APC’s electoral success.
Beyond the by-elections, Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his earlier pledge of delivering 2.5 million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing increasing confidence in achieving this ambitious target. He assured the people that his administration’s dedicated work would soon earn their widespread appreciation, predicting a tangible transformation in the state that would demonstrably improve their lives. Focusing on the immediate electoral contest, the governor announced his imminent return to the area to campaign vigorously for the APC candidate in the Ovia Federal Constituency by-election. He introduced the candidate, Omosede Igbinedion, as “Madam Projects,” mirroring the moniker “Mr. Projects” he bestowed upon his Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, signaling their commitment to delivering tangible results to the constituency.
The event marked a considerable shift in the political landscape of Edo State, symbolized by the defection of prominent PDP figures into the APC fold. Among these were Andrew Uzamere, the incumbent representative of Ovia North Constituency II in the Edo State House of Assembly; Peter Ekhator, a former council chairman; Hon. Uwaifo; Christopher Igodalo; and a significant number of their supporters. Their collective decision to switch allegiance underscored a growing momentum towards the APC, suggesting a potential realignment of political forces within the state. The defectors’ expressed enthusiasm and commitment to working within the APC framework further strengthened the party’s position and signaled a potential shift in the political balance of power.
Andrew Uzamere and Peter Ekhator, speaking on behalf of the defecting group, articulated their reasons for joining the APC and their hopes for the future. Their pronouncements reflected a sense of optimism and a belief in the APC’s vision for Edo State, suggesting a broader shift in political sentiment within the region. They pledged their full support and collaboration with the APC, highlighting their eagerness to contribute to the party’s progress. Their declarations further bolstered the perception of the APC as a growing force in Edo State’s political arena, indicating a potential reshaping of the political landscape.
The event garnered significant attention and drew a large assembly of key stakeholders within the APC. Prominent attendees included the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku; several other members of the House of Assembly; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Ganiyu Audu; Senator Mathew Urokhide; and former Deputy Governor Chief Lucky Imasuen. Their presence underscored the significance of the event and the party’s growing influence within the state. Deputy Governor Idahosa and State APC Chairman Jarrett Tenebe lauded Governor Okpebholo’s performance, attributing the influx of new members to his impactful leadership and the tangible results his administration has delivered. This praise served to solidify the governor’s position as a key figure in the APC and underscored the party’s growing appeal in Edo State. The event served as a potent display of the APC’s increasing strength and influence in the state, setting the stage for a potentially significant shift in the upcoming by-elections and beyond.
