By Suleiman Anyalewechi
Four members of the Edo State House of Assembly, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, formally defected to the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC.
Hon Donald Okogbe, Bright Iyamu and Sunday Ojiezele all cross-carpeted from the Peoples Democratic Party PDP, while Hon Richard Edosa signed on from the Labour Party, LP .
The Source reports that the defection of the Lawmakers comes less than a week after the leadership of Edo PDP accused Governor Monday Okpebholo and the APC of luring some its members in the House with as much as N200 million each.
Although the APC had dismissed the allegation as a mere ranting and a part of PDP’s distracting antics, events have to some extent vindicated the party.
Receiving the defected law makers at the APC State Secretariat in Benin on Wednesday ,the Acting Chairman, Jarret Tenebe, promised that they will be accorded equal opportunities,and privileges ,as old members .
He described their decision to join the APC as a good step in the right direction,noting that it is a defining moment for the party .
“These Honourable members who bring with them a wealth of experience and diverse perspective have recognized that the APC offers the most promising path forward for Edo State and our Nation, Nigeria.
“They have seen the clarity of the polices, the integrity of the leadership of Governor Monday Okpepholo ,and the unwavering dedication to make the lives of Edo people better.
“We understand that the decision to change political allegiances is not taken lightly . It requires courage ,conviction ,and a belief in a better future.
“We commend these Honourable members for their bravery and their willingness to stand with us as we join hands with Governor Monday Okpebholo to build a stronger economy, improve education ,promote social harmony and secure the lives of Edo People.
“This is not merely a matter of our numbers, it is about strengthening our collective resolve .It is about bringing together individuals who share a common purpose and a desire to make a real difference”, the APC chairman stated.
Earlier the new members noted that they were goaded into joining forces with the APC ,and Governor Okpebholo because of their conviction that a lot will be achieved when they come together .
The defected legislators who spoke through Hon Edosa described the occasion as a defining moment for them .
They blamed their decision to quit their original political nest ,the PDP on the division and disagreement within its fold .
They pledged to work in concert with the Governor ,to provide dividends of democracy to the good people of Edo state .
The source further reports ,that with the development, APC has taken over control of the Assembly with 13 members and 11 for PDP.
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