Defection Rocks Edo Central As Ordia, Others Join APC

The political landscape in Edo State witnessed a major realignment on Tuesday as key leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) in Edo Central defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Among the prominent figures who joined the APC were Clifford Ordia, Hon. Joe Edionwe, and Sandra Ihenyen, alongside several grassroots mobilisers and supporters.

They were formally received by Governor Monday Okpebholo at a rally held at Eguare Public Field in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area.

Speaking at the event, Okpebholo described the defections as a clear endorsement of the APC’s governance approach and growing acceptance among the people.

He attributed ongoing developmental strides to policy decisions at the federal level, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy by President Bola Tinubu.

“That is the money we are using to work all over Nigeria today. The president’s actions reflect a strong belief in Nigeria’s future and long-term prosperity,” the governor said.

Okpebholo further disclosed that he had recently convinced a critic of the president after showcasing ongoing projects across Edo State, adding that more independent observers would be invited to assess progress.

“We will continue to open our doors for credible Nigerians to come and see what we are doing. Edo people can testify to the level of transformation on ground,” he stated.

The governor expressed confidence in the APC’s electoral strength ahead of future polls, insisting that the state was positioned to deliver massive support for the president.

In a related development, Okpebholo visited Ekpoma in Esan West Local Government Area, where he fulfilled a promise to victims of the January crisis by handing over reconstructed Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) shops destroyed during the unrest.

He also presented cheques of ₦8 million each to affected shop owners to support the resumption of their businesses.

Describing the incident as the handiwork of “evil men,” the governor said the reconstruction marked a turning point for the community.

“But today, it is a changed story. The reconstruction of the shops marks a significant step toward restoring economic activities and normalcy in the area,” he added.