Mr Viral
By Ozioruva Aliu
BENIN CITY – Four members of the Edo State House of Assembly, elected on the platforms of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), have defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The defecting lawmakers are: Hon. Donald Okugbe (Akoko-Edo Constituency II – PDP), Hon. Bright Iyamu (Orhionmwon Constituency II – LP), Hon. Richard Edosa (Oredo West – PDP) and Hon. Sunday Ojiezele (Esan South East – PDP).
They pledged their commitment to working with the Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo-led administration, to drive development in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Hon. Richard Edosa cited internal divisions within their former parties as the primary reason for their decision.
“There are divisions in the PDP from the national level down to the state, local government, and ward levels. The party that gave us the platform to win the election also created the atmosphere that made us leave. We believe in unity and progress, and that is what the APC represents.”
He further expressed confidence in the leadership of Governor Okpebholo, stating:
“We believe in the governor’s vision for Edo State, as well as the leadership of President Bola Tinubu. That is why we have decided to join forces with the APC to move Edo forward. We promise to work together with the governor and the party to build a new Edo State.”
With this defection, the APC has now gained a majority in the Edo State House of Assembly. The Minority Leader, Hon. Eric Okaka (APC – Owan East), commended the lawmakers for their bold decision, attributing it to Governor Okpebholo’s performance and leadership style.
“Before now, we were in the minority, but with this defection, we are now the majority in the House. We will work closely with the governor to ensure Edo State experiences rapid development for the benefit of our people.”
The Chairman of APC in Edo State, Emperor Jaret Tenebe, officially received the lawmakers at the party secretariat, presenting them with the party’s symbol. He assured them of equal treatment within the party and hailed their defection as a strong endorsement of Governor Okpebholo’s administration.
“These lawmakers bring a wealth of experience and have recognized that the APC is the party of progress. They have seen the clarity of Governor Okpebholo’s leadership and his unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Edo people.”
He reiterated the party’s commitment to economic growth, education, social harmony, and security in the state.
With the APC now holding a majority in the state assembly, the defectors’ move is expected to strengthen Governor Okpebholo’s legislative support and influence the upcoming political landscape in Edo State.
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