The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has made a startling allegation, claiming that four members of the Edo State House of Assembly received N200m each to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The PDP APC defection development has significant implications for the political landscape of Edo State. The four lawmakers who defected from the PDP to the APC are:
- Bright Iyamu (Orhionmwon South Constituency II)
- Richard Edosa (Oredo West Constituency)
- Sunday Ojezele (Esan South East)
- Donald Okugbe (Akoko Edo Constituency II)
The PDP swiftly condemned the defections, accusing Governor Monday Okpebholo of using state funds to bribe lawmakers. Chris Nehikhare, the PDP Caretaker Committee’s Publicity Secretary, criticized the governor for prioritizing political realignment over governance, particularly at a time when insecurity is escalating in Edo State.
The APC acting chairman, Jarret Tenebe, welcomed the lawmakers, describing their move as a major boost for the ruling party. Tenebe dismissed the PDP’s bribery allegations, insisting that the lawmakers defected out of conviction, not financial incentives.
With this defection, the APC now holds 13 seats in the 24-member Assembly, while the PDP has 11. The Labour Party also lost its only lawmaker to the APC. This shift in the balance of power has significant implications for the governance of Edo State.
The PDP has criticized Governor Okpebholo for prioritizing political realignment over governance. The party argues that the governor should focus on addressing the escalating insecurity in Edo State, which has resulted in the loss of lives and property.
The defection of the four lawmakers has significant implications for Edo State politics. The APC’s gain in the State Assembly may strengthen the party’s grip on power, while the PDP’s loss may weaken its ability to influence governance.
In conclusion, the defection of four lawmakers from the PDP to the APC amidst allegations of bribery has significant implications for Edo State politics. The development highlights the complexities of Nigerian politics, where defections and alliances can shift the balance of power.