In a significant political development, eight former local government area chairmen in Edo State have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), pledging their allegiance to the party and committing to work for its victory in the upcoming September 4, 2024, election.
The notable defectors include John Osi Akhigbe (former Etsako Central Local Government chairman), Hon (Engr) Dr Josie Ogedegbe (Igueben), Hon Frank Ilaboya (Owan West), Hon Andrew Osigwe (Owan East), Hon Napoleon Agbama (Uhunmwonde), Scott Ogbemudia (Ovia North East), Hon Austin Okoibhole (Esan North East), and Hon Mrs. Ruth Osahor (Esan West).
These former chairmen, who were previously members of the APC but had defected with Governor Godwin Obaseki to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2020, made their return to the APC official at the Benin residence of the party’s leader, Sen Adams Oshiomhole. They were accompanied by the APC governorship candidate, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, his running mate Ry. Hon Dennis Idahosa, and the Acting State Chairman of the party, Emperor Jaret Tenebe.
Expressing his delight at their return, Oshiomhole welcomed them back into the APC fold, emphasizing the party’s open-door policy and its capacity to accommodate diverse perspectives. He commended their decision to rejoin the APC family, highlighting their past contributions to governance and their roles in building the party.
In his remarks, Ilaboya, speaking on behalf of the returnees, described the move as a “homecoming,” acknowledging Oshiomhole’s instrumental role in their political journey. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue working towards the realization of Oshiomhole’s vision and the progressive ideals of the APC.
Oshiomhole, in his response, reiterated his commitment to fostering unity within the party and ensuring the success of APC candidates in the upcoming election. He emphasized the need for collective efforts to advance the party’s agenda and steer the state towards development and prosperity.
The return of these former local government chairmen to the APC underscores the party’s growing strength and unity as it prepares for the forthcoming election. Their reintegration into the APC ranks is expected to bolster the party’s grassroots mobilization efforts and enhance its prospects for victory in Edo State.