Okpebholo receives defectors, reaffirms development drive

From Tony Osauzo, Benin

Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has welcomed defectors into the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo North, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sustained development and improved living standards for the people of the state.

Speaking during a mega rally at the Auchi Open Field in Etsako West Local Government Area, the Governor said his government had made visible progress within a short period, despite limited resources, noting that the SHINE Agenda was already yielding results across key sectors.

He assured the new members of equal opportunities within the party, emphasising that the APC remains a united family focused on transforming Edo State.

“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,” he said.

State chairman of the party, Jarrett Tenebe, Edo North party leaders and other stakeholders, who were present to formally receive the defectors, described their decision to join the APC as a boost to the party’s growing strength in the state.

Tenebe also used the occasion to reaffirm the endorsement of Senator Adams Oshiomhole as the sole candidate for Edo North ahead of the party’s forthcoming primary election, a move that was unanimously supported by party faithful through a voice vote.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Benedicta Attoh described their move as a “homecoming,” noting that many of them were original members of the APC.

“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,” the former Etsako East Local Government Council Chairman said.

Among those who defected at the rally were former Etsako East Local Government Chairman, Benedicta Attoh and former Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) member, Sylvester Eruaga, alongside hundreds of members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who described the APC as a beacon of hope.