The numerical strength of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Edo State House of Assembly has received boost as two members elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) have officially defected to the ruling APC, reports Business Today NG.
The defecting lawmakers are Eugene Ojie Inegbeboh, representing Igueben Constituency, and Andrew Uzamere, representing Ovia North East II Constituency. Their formal declaration took place at the APC state secretariat in Benin City, reducing PDP’s representation in the assembly to just four members.
Receiving the lawmakers, Edo State APC chairman, Emperor Jarrett Tenebe, described their decision as a reflection of growing political consciousness in the state and a clear endorsement of the APC vision of inclusive governance.
Tenebe, who commended the lawmakers for their move, explained that APC does not distinguish between old and new members but remains a single united family.
“Your coming is a reinforcement of what we stand for. We are welcoming two proven leaders whose experience will further enrich our party’s vision and grassroots reach. Let us all take today as a reminder that the strength of the APC lies not just in our numbers, but in our unity, our discipline and our shared belief in a better Edo.
“As a party, we urge all Edo citizens to continue to give our governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the full support and enabling environment he needs to implement his people-centred programmes, ” he said.
The lawmakers, in their separate remarks, said their defection would strengthen the party as it heads into the forthcoming by-election and promised to work with the APC structure to deliver on the expectations of their constituents.