Okpebholo Launches Tinubu's 2027 Bid as PDP Lawmaker Crosses Floor to Join APC

Edo State’s Governor, Monday Okpebholo On Wednesday, they initiated President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign in the state.

As part of a similar development, an additional legislator from the opposing People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Kaycee Osamwonyi, who represents the Uhunmwonde constituency in the 24-person Edo State House of Assembly, has switched allegiance to join the governing All Progressives Congress (APC).

Osamwonyi is part of the House Committee on Budget and Appropriation.

Following his defection, the APC now commands a majority with 14 legislators, whereas the PDP retains only 10 members.

Governor Okpebholo welcomed Osamwonyi at the Government House in Benin City after he was formally introduced to the APC by the state party leader, Jarrett Tenebe. The latter officially handed over Osamwonyi to the governor.

Okpebholo welcomed Osamwonyi and the others joining the APC, assuring all of them a collaborative and nurturing atmosphere where they can collectively strive for the advancement of Edo State.

He reaffirmed his government’s dedication to continuing development initiatives designed to rejuvenate every sector of the state’s economy and enhance the well-being of its citizens.

He stated: "Congratulations (Osamwonyi) on your return home. Your arrival is an asset to the party (APC), since we now have five new members joining us, which has fortified our organization."

“Many individuals belonging to different political groups are eager to become part of our party, and we have an exciting celebration coming up soon. I am reaching out for assistance in driving progress, and with our combined efforts, we can advance Edo State and improve the quality of life for everyone here.”

Uhunmwonde Local Government holds a special place for me, and with our combined efforts, we can enhance the region and pave the way for progress and development.

The upcoming general elections, particularly the presidential election in 2027, find us prepared in Edo State. Our efforts towards campaigning for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have already begun in 2027. It’s crucial that we rally the youth within our state, and you are counted among them. I assure you that your experience with our party will be rewarding now that you’ve decided to join us.

The Edo chairman of APC, during the presentation of the defector Osamwonyi to Okpebholo, emphasized that the party now had complete control over the state's House of Assembly due to the majority of legislators being part of their ranks.

Tenebe stated: "Hon. Osamwonyi became part of the APC party due to the progress and development initiatives accomplished under your (Okpebholo's) governance within the short period you've been leading Edo State."

In his comments, Osamwonyi mentioned that he decided to join APC due to the lack of unity within the PDP at both national and local levels, along with Okpebholo’s accomplishments during their brief tenure in office.

The defector stated: "The rift within my party, the PDP, led me to join the APC. To me, this feels like returning home since I previously belonged to the APC. Okpebholo’s progressive developments drew me back, as I aim for the best interests of my constituents."

The numerous initiatives outlined in the budget for the residents of Uhunmwonde are quite remarkable. Therefore, I must align myself with the party (APC) to contribute to the progress of my community.

The Edo chapter chairman of the PDP, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, stated that Okpebholo faced significant security challenges throughout all 18 local government areas of the state. He also expressed confidence that Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the party’s gubernatorial nominee for the September 21, 2024 elections in Edo, will prevail at the Court of Appeal after losing the election petition tribunal case held in Abuja, thereby ensuring effective leadership.

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