The political landscape in Edo State shifted significantly on Friday as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) welcomed new members from the local government area. Hon. Edosa Enowoghomenma, the Chairman of Ovia South West Local Government Area, led a group of eight elected councillors—including Hon. Nosakhare Edobor, the Leader of the House—into the APC fold. This move signals a strategic effort by the party to consolidate its influence across all 18 local government areas in the state.
In a related development, Hon. Dickson Ahonsi, the Chairman of Owan West Local Government Area, along with five other councillors, also announced their defection to the APC. This shift comes amid ongoing tensions between local councils and Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration.
Ahonsi cited the governor’s proactive measures for state development as a key factor in their decision. “Firstly, his activities on the assumption of office were impressive as he made important appointments, unlike the previous government. Soon the list of commissioners will be released, and it is a welcome development,” he stated.
He further expressed confidence in the governor’s initiatives, asserting that “the projects that he has embarked upon show clearly that Edo is in safe hands, and that is why I am here to join the party.”
The newly defected members were officially welcomed by Engr. Lawrence Okah, the State Secretary of the APC, who emphasized the party’s openness to further defections. “We have long been expecting you to join us. APC now has five councillors, and more will come. Use the broom to mobilize other people to join the party,” Okah encouraged.
The reception for the Ovia South West defectors was led by Emmanuel Ogbomo, the chairman of the APC in the state. He assured them that their decision would be beneficial, stating, “There is nothing new about what you are doing today. I was in the PDP for 20 years before I left, and now I am the LGA chairman of the party, which means that in the APC everybody is treated equally, and you will not regret your action. We will join to protect you and your office.”
Enowoghomenma articulated the rationale behind their defection, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with the state leadership. “We have thought it wise to pitch tent with the APC in Ovia South West LGA, to work harmoniously with our governor, Distinguished Sen. Monday Okpebholo, and our very own, Mr. Project Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa,” he said. He underscored the necessity of aligning with the governor and deputy governor to foster local development.
Hon. Edobor reinforced that their decision was made voluntarily and in the best interest of their constituents. “I am happy with my other colleagues of the Ovia South West legislative arm to join forces and ensure that there is development in Ovia South West. The essence of being in politics is to bring development,” he affirmed.
