The suspended chairmen of Owan West and Ovia South West Local Government Areas in Edo State, Dickson Ahonsi and Edosa Enowoghomenma, on Friday officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ahonsi, who joined the APC with five councillors, was warmly received by members of the party’s state executive in Benin City. Speaking on his defection, Ahonsi cited Governor Monday Okpebholo’s developmental strides as a key factor in his decision.
“The projects initiated by the governor clearly show that Edo is in safe hands, and that is why I am here to join the party,” Ahonsi stated.
The State Secretary of the APC, Lawrence Okah, assured Ahonsi and the councillors that the party remains open to welcoming more members, highlighting its inclusive approach.
In a parallel event in Ovia South West, Edosa Enowoghomenma, along with eight elected councillors, including the Leader of the House, Nosakhare Edobor, joined the APC. They were received by the council’s APC chairman, Emmanuel Ogbomo, who promised equal treatment and full support within the party.
“There is nothing unusual about your decision today,” Ogbomo said. “I was in the PDP for 20 years before joining the APC, and now I am the LGA chairman. Here, everyone is treated equally, and you will not regret your decision.”
Enowoghomenma explained that their defection was driven by a desire to align with Governor Okpebholo, the Deputy Governor, and Dennis Idahosa in their efforts to advance Edo State’s development.