Defections rock Edo North as Okpebholo consolidates grip

… Pushes devt drive

AUCHI (EDO STATE) — Governor Monday Okpebholo on Tuesday tightened his political hold on Edo North as he welcomed a wave of defectors into the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that his administration remains firmly on course to deliver sustained development and improved living standards across the state.

Addressing a massive rally at Auchi Open Field in Etsako West Local Government Area, the governor said his government had made visible strides within a short period despite limited resources, stressing that the SHINE Agenda was already yielding measurable results across critical sectors.

He assured the new entrants of equal opportunities within the party, maintaining that the APC remains a cohesive platform committed to transforming Edo State for the benefit of its people.

“I thank those who have joined us today. By the time our 2.5 million votes are delivered, no one will challenge it. Edo has shown that government resources can be used to develop the state for the benefit of the people,” Okpebholo declared.

The Edo State APC Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, alongside party leaders and key stakeholders from Edo North, formally received the defectors, describing the development as a significant boost to the party’s growing dominance in the region.

Tenebe also reaffirmed the endorsement of Adams Oshiomhole as the sole candidate for Edo North Senatorial District ahead of the party’s forthcoming primary election, a decision ratified by members through a voice vote.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, former Etsako East Local Government Chairman, Hon. Benedicta Attoh, described the move as a “homecoming,” explaining that many of them were original members of the APC who had merely returned to their political base.

“We are not defecting; we are returning home. Even the Bible speaks of the prodigal son who left, but later realised there was no better place than his foundation and returned,” she said.

The rally also witnessed the defection of prominent figures, including former Edo State House of Assembly member, Hon. Sylvester Eruaga, alongside hundreds of members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who described the APC as a beacon of hope for the state’s future.