Okpebholo Flags Off Tinubu’s 2027 Campaign as PDP Lawmaker Defects to APC

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has officially flagged off the 2027 re-election campaign of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Edo State. The announcement came on Wednesday during a gathering at the Government House in Benin City.

In a political shift that strengthens the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state legislature, Hon. Kaycee Osamwonyi, a member of the House Committee on Budget and Appropriation representing Uhunmwonde Constituency, defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC. His defection brings the APC’s majority in the 24-member Edo State House of Assembly to 14, leaving the PDP with 10 lawmakers.

Receiving Osamwonyi, Governor Okpebholo praised the lawmaker and other recent defectors, noting their move as a boost to the party’s strength. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and developmental initiatives across the state.

“We congratulate you (Osamwonyi) for returning home. Your coming is a plus for the party, as we have five of you who have joined, and you have made our party stronger,” the governor stated. “A lot of people from other political parties are ready to join our party, and soon there will be a carnival. Together, we will develop Edo State and make life better for our people.”

Okpebholo underscored the importance of Uhunmwonde Local Government Area and called on Osamwonyi to join efforts in opening the area to growth. He also declared the state ready to begin mobilization for Tinubu’s 2027 presidential bid, calling on youths to get involved and promising an inclusive and vibrant party experience.

APC State Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, who formally presented Osamwonyi to the governor, said the lawmaker’s defection was a reflection of the progress seen under Okpebholo’s leadership. “Hon. Osamwonyi joined the party following the developmental strides your administration has achieved in the few months you have led Edo State,” Tenebe remarked.

Speaking on his defection, Osamwonyi cited internal divisions within the PDP and the governor’s achievements as motivating factors. “The division in my party, the PDP, made me join the APC. For me, it is a homecoming, as I was once in the APC,” he said. “Your developmental strides attracted me back home, as I want the best for my people.”

He also lauded the governor for the projects included in the state budget that directly benefit Uhunmwonde.

In response to the developments, Edo PDP Chairman Dr. Tony Aziegbemi criticized the governor’s handling of insecurity across the state’s 18 local government areas. He expressed confidence that the party’s governorship candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, would overturn the tribunal’s ruling at the Court of Appeal and secure victory in the upcoming September 21 election to deliver quality governance.