From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Three Peoples Democratic Party members and one Labour Party member of the Edo State House of Assembly, yesterday, defected to the All Progressives Congress, giving the APC majority members of 13 with the PDP now having 11 members.
The lawmakers that defected are Donald Okugbe, (Akoko Edo Constituency II); Bright Iyamu, (Orhionmwon South Constituency II ); Richard Edosa, (Oredo West Constituency) and Sunday Ojezele (Esan South East).
The defected lawmakers were received at the APC party Secretariat in Benin by the state Working Committee of the party led by the Acting State Chairman, Jarret Tenebe.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Richard Edosa, described the development as a defining moment for them, adding that the obvious division in their various parties that gave them platform also provided the platform for them to dump the party due to intractable crisis from the National to the state and local government.
“A house divided against itself cannot stand. We believe in the vision of Governor Monday Okpebholo and decided to join him to achieve his vision for Edo State. We promise to work with the governor to build the party and the state”.
Acting Chairman of the party, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, said the defection of the lawmakers remains a significant moment for the APC in the state.
He assured the lawmakers that the party would accord them the same right and privileges just like any other members of the party.
“This is not merely a matter of increasing 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.
“We value the contributions of each and every member, and we are confident that our new Honorable Members will play a vital role in our journey towards success,” Tenebe said.