By Tony Osauzo, Benin
The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) boosted its membership in the state House of Assembly to 14 on Tuesday, April 8, with the defection of another Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker, Hon. Kingsley Osamwonyi (Kaycee), representing Uhunmwode Constituency.
Speaking at the event held at the party secretariat in Benin, APC State Chairman Emperor Jarrett Tenebe hailed it as an epoch-making moment. “Today, another historic chapter has been opened for both the APC and the good people of Edo State,” he said.
“First, let me congratulate Edo people for the successes recorded at the tribunal and salute their unwavering support throughout the legal process. Another golden chapter has been added to the growing history of the APC in Edo State.”
Tenebe credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership for repositioning the APC. “I am proud to say, with all sense of responsibility, that the leadership provided by His Excellency, the Grand Commander of the Armed Forces, has made the APC the new sheriff in town,” he stated.
“That same leadership style has been emulated by our own governor, distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo. In just a few months, his unprecedented developmental strides have caused opposition parties to fade into political oblivion. I think it is only fitting that we stand and give three hearty cheers to our governor!”
He explained Osamwonyi’s move: “The decision by Hon. K.C. Osamwonyi to defect from the PDP to the APC was informed by the irreconcilable crisis and internal quagmire that have plagued his former party—conditions which have made the realisation of their political goals impossible.” Tenebe cited Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), noting that Osamwonyi’s defection reflects his commitment to Edo’s betterment.
Tenebe welcomed him warmly. “As we welcome him into our great party, let us remind ourselves of the need to promote unity, collaboration, and unwavering support for the Renewed Hope agenda of Mr President—an agenda we are determined to nurture here in Edo,” he said.
“On behalf of the APC in Edo State, I want to reaffirm that the party remains committed to supporting Governor Monday Okpebholo in the full implementation of his five-point agenda and campaign promises.”
He assured Osamwonyi of an inclusive environment, adding, “As our governor has always said, the doors of the APC are wide open to all well-meaning Edo sons and daughters who wish to key into this transformative movement.”
Osamwonyi, in his remarks, expressed relief. “For me, I’m back home. I started my active political career in APC. It’s more or less like a prodigal son. So, I’m back home,” he said. He cited the PDP’s divisions—from national to local government levels—as his reason for leaving.
“I have decided to align with the developmental strides of Governor Okpebholo, as I did not join politics for money but to attract dividends of democracy to my people of Uhunmwode.”