Okpebholo Welcomes Defectors in Edo North, Reaffirms Development Agenda

Urbanscopnews reporting 

The Governor of Edo State, , has formally received a significant number of defectors into the (APC) during a high-profile rally in Edo North, underscoring his administration’s commitment to accelerated development and inclusive governance.

The event, held at the Auchi Open Field in , drew a large crowd of party faithful, stakeholders, and community leaders, marking what observers described as a notable consolidation of political support for the ruling party in the region.

Addressing attendees, Governor Okpebholo highlighted the early achievements of his administration, noting that measurable progress has been recorded across critical sectors despite fiscal constraints. He emphasized that the government’s SHINE Agenda—focused on sustainable development, human capital advancement, and infrastructural renewal—is already delivering tangible outcomes for residents.

“We have demonstrated that with prudent management, public resources can be effectively deployed to improve the lives of our people,” the governor stated, while assuring new entrants into the party of equal opportunities and full integration. He reiterated that the APC remains cohesive and forward-looking in its mission to transform Edo State.

Also present at the rally was the Edo State APC Chairman, , alongside prominent leaders from Edo North. Party officials collectively described the influx of defectors as a strategic boost to the APC’s grassroots strength and electoral prospects.

In a significant political development, party stakeholders at the event reaffirmed their endorsement of as the sole candidate for the Edo North Senatorial District ahead of the party’s forthcoming primary election. The endorsement, ratified through a voice vote, signals a unified front within the party’s regional leadership.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, former Etsako East Local Government Chairman, , characterized the move as a return rather than a defection. Drawing a parallel with the biblical “prodigal son,” she noted that many of the returnees were founding members of the APC who had chosen to realign with the party’s vision.

The rally also witnessed the formal entry of notable figures, including former Edo State House of Assembly member , alongside hundreds of members from the (PDP), many of whom cited the APC’s governance direction as a motivating factor.

The development is widely seen as reinforcing the APC’s political momentum in Edo North, as the state government continues to position itself around a platform of development-focused governance and party cohesion.