By Mercy Akuba
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has recorded a major political boost in Edo Central following the defection of prominent opposition figures, including Senator Clifford Odia, Hon. Joe Edionwere, and Mrs. Philomena Ihenyen.
The decampees formally declared their allegiance to the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, at a political gathering in Edo Central, where they pledged their full support for his administration.
Addressing supporters, Senator Odia said the decision to join the APC was motivated by the need to support ongoing development in the state.
“Your Excellency, our amiable Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, we have come with humility to join our brother in the struggle to ensure Edo State achieves the development it deserves.
“This is a clear call to all Esan people, and indeed all Edo citizens across the North and South, that the time has come to support what is good.”
According to him, The government is working, and everyone must align with progress.
“We have joined him and we will continue to support him. God bless you all.”
On his part, Hon. Edionwere described the APC as the dominant political force in Esan land and Edo State, attributing this to the governor’s performance.
“We are here to celebrate the fact that the APC has become the leading party in Esan land and Edo State. The Governor has demonstrated visible performance for all to see.
We are not here to compete with anyone but to complement the good work already being done.
“From today, party leaders and stakeholders should open their doors, as more people will continue to join the APC. This is our time, and our focus remains the development of Edo State.”
Also speaking, Mrs. Ihenyen described the defection as a historic moment, emphasizing unity and collective progress.
“Today is historic for us in Esan land. When two sons contest and one wins, it is only right to support the one who has won for the benefit of all.
“Any Esan man or woman who refuses to support Governor Okpebholo and the progress of Edo State is not acting in the interest of the people.”
“We are mobilizing through groups like Edo Women for Okpebholo and Esan Women for Okpebholo to support this administration and drive development across the state.”
The defection of these political figures is seen as a significant gain for the APC in Edo Central, potentially strengthening the party’s grassroots support and consolidating its political influence in the region.