The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State appears to be steering through a turbulent factional period as its State Working Committee (SWC) temporarily lifts suspensions for some party members while keeping others in limbo.
The developments emerged from a meeting held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, amid ongoing tensions surrounding the party’s leadership and the influence of senior figures associated with former national chairman Adams Oshiomhole and Minister of Regional Development Abubakar Momoh.
A statement signed by Peter Uwadiae, the APC Edo State Publicity Secretary, indicated that the SWC resolved to lift the suspensions of Valentine Asue, the 2023 Edo South senatorial candidate, and Mrs. Stella Ogbetta, the Woman Leader for Ward 10 in Oredo Local Government Area.
Asue, who currently chairs the Edo State Forestry Commission, was suspended on August 25, 2025, accused of inciting intra-party divisions and engaging in anti-party activities. Ogbetta’s suspension was similarly reversed with immediate effect, welcoming her back to active party duties and urging her to resume contributing to the party’s growth and unity in her jurisdiction.
Despite these lifts, the SWC chose not to restore several other high-profile loyalists tied to Oshiomhole, including those linked to the minister. The statement indicated that the committee has directed ongoing scrutiny of other figures to determine their next line of action, highlighting the delicate balance between reconciliation and discipline within the Edo APC.
Among those under review is Alhaji Abubakar Akokhia, a former chairman in Etsako West Local Government Area, whose relationship with the party in the locality will be reassessed. The SWC has demanded a comprehensive report from the current Etsako West LG chairman detailing Akokhia’s present status and alignment with the party, a move designed to guide potential recourse, including the possibility of lifting or maintaining suspensions.
In contrast, Mallam Adamu Ototobor, the Ward 9 Chairman in Etsako East Local Government Area, remains suspended as the SWC contemplates further steps. Uwadiae noted that Ototobor’s suspension would persist until further notice, signaling continued friction within that wing of the party.
The party also pointedly urged all members to uphold the APC’s core tenets of lawfulness and discipline while awaiting additional directives. Analysts suggest the tension within Edo APC reflects broader national dynamics, including the lingering influence of Oshiomhole’s allies and the ongoing maneuvers by other power centers within the party.