The political tides in Edo State have taken a decisive turn as Hon. Marcus Onobun, the last remaining opposition federal lawmaker in the state, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), further cementing the party’s dominance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Governor Monday Okpebholo, who formally received Onobun into the APC fold, described the development as “the final nail in the coffin” for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State.
“We are not lobbying anyone to join the APC; they are coming because they see the results of our governance. In 2027, 2.5 million votes from Edo are guaranteed for President Bola Tinubu,” the Governor declared.
Speaking during the defection ceremony in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo dismissed the PDP’s perceived strength, particularly on social media, arguing that electoral victories are won through performance and grassroots impact not hashtags.
“Last week, we finally buried the PDP in Edo. I saw someone crying at Ring Road, talking about having 65%. That is what we call social media winning,” he said, taking a jab at opposition claims of popularity.
Highlighting ongoing infrastructure projects across the state, the Governor noted, “When I said I would become the Governor, I meant it. Today, we are turning Edo into a construction site and they can see it.”
Governor Okpebholo also addressed what he described as “reckless political interference” from outside players, notably taking a swipe at Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, whose recent visit to Benin allegedly triggered unrest.
“That man who says he has no ‘shishi’ came and dropped ₦15 million. Where did he get it from? After he left, three people were killed. For this reason, Obi must not come to Edo without security clearance,” the Governor stated.
Turning his criticism toward broader opposition elements, Okpebholo accused several high-profile politicians of past failures and corruption.
“Some of them stole railway funds. Some were Senate Presidents for years and could not build roads to their villages. Some sold Nigeria’s assets and ushered in Boko Haram and kidnappers. Now they want to form new parties. Today, SDP; tomorrow, ADC; next, ADA. We don’t need insecurity merchants in Edo.”
Despite the strong words, the Governor extended an olive branch to Onobun and his supporters, urging them to contribute meaningfully to the state’s transformation agenda.
Hon. Marcus Onobun, a former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, was elected under the PDP banner. His defection marks a critical shift in Edo’s political realignment ahead of the 2027 polls.
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