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Tag: Okpebholo

  • Okpebholo, Edo PDP clash over Tinubu’s re-election campaign kick-off

    Okpebholo, Edo PDP clash over Tinubu’s re-election campaign kick-off

    The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Edo Chapter, have clashed over Okpebholo’s kick-off of President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign.

    Okpebholo, on April 9 this year, while receiving in Government House, Benin, another defecting member of the main opposition PDP in the 24-member Edo House of Assembly, Kaycee Osamwonyi, the representative of Uhunmwonde Constituency, into the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), disclosed that he and his allies had kick-started the campaigns for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. 

    Edo PDP, through its Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, the immediate state’s Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, however, described as an insult, and affront to Nigeria’s Constitution, Edo governor kick-starting President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign.

     It said: “We read with concern and disappointment, the reckless statement by Senator Monday Okpebholo, where he declared to have kick-started the campaign for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, in his continuous scheming to hoodwink the President and the leadership of the APC.

    “We want to unequivocally state that his (Edo governor’s) comments and actions are in direct contravention of Section 94 (1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which explicitly states that the period of campaigning in public by every political party shall commence 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours before that day.

    “It is troubling and deeply embarrassing that Okpebholo, who should be a custodian of the rule of law, is kicking off campaigns nearly two years ahead of the legally allowed period. This is not only illegal but also sets a dangerous precedent for abuse of power and disrespect for our Constitution and constitutional democracy.

    Read Also: Okpebholo opens campaign for Tinubu’s re-election

    “Even more laughable is Okpebholo’s boastful claim that he would deliver Edo State to President Tinubu in 2027. This is the same man who could not secure a victory for himself during the September 21, 2024 governorship election, who lost convincingly at the poll, and has since then, along with his allies, been fighting tooth and nail, resorting to all sorts of illegalities and machinations to suppress the truth and sustain the electoral heist.”

    The main opposition PDP also stated that the Edo governor’s continuous resort to subterfuge was nothing more than a smokescreen to ingratiate himself with the presidency while attempting to distract from his failures in government, his loss of control over the political space, and the growing rejection he had been facing among the residents of the state.

    It said: “We sincerely hope President Tinubu will not fall for these deceitful gimmicks and baseless assurances. If the President hopes to win Edo State in 2027, he cannot rely on Okpebholo and the Edo APC leadership, as they lack the capacity to deliver Edo to him.

     “We call on the relevant authorities, especially those tasked with upholding our constitution and the rule of law, to take note of this gross violation and invoke the appropriate sanctions as enshrined in our Constitution.”

     Edo PDP also insisted that no individual, no matter how highly placed, should be allowed to trample on the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and go scot-free.

    The Chief Press Secretary to Edo governor, Fred Itua, while defending his boss yesterday, described the state PDP’s statement as the last kick of a dying horse.

    Itua said: “A weak statement credited to the factional Edo State Chapter of the PDP, wherein the once-vibrant party attempted, albeit feebly, to misinterpret a patriotic remark made by His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State, concerning his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, surfaced on Friday. 

    “Let it be categorically stated that Governor Okpebholo has at no time violated any section of the Electoral Act, including Section 94 (1), as falsely alleged by the Edo factional PDP. Edo governor, like every well-meaning Nigerian, reserves the right to express support for President Tinubu’s vision and administration.

    “It is laughable that the Edo PDP, in its desperation to stay relevant, has now resorted to twisting every statement from the governor to score cheap political points. Governor Okpebholo’s statement was made in the context of strengthening collaboration with the Federal Government for the development of Edo State. Besides, Governor Okpebholo reserves the right to kick-start the re-election campaign for President Tinubu without apologies.”

    The CPS to Okpebholo also stated that Edo PDP’s knee-jerk reaction once again exposed its deep-seated insecurity and dwindling influence in the state.

    He said: “Rather than issue press statements riddled with inaccuracies and political bitterness, the Edo PDP should take time to reflect on the massive goodwill Governor Okpebholo enjoys across party lines and among the people of Edo State who are already witnessing a breath of fresh air in governance.

    “If Governor Okpebholo opts for an open re-election campaign for President Tinubu, it is within his rights. Unfortunately, what now exists in the infamous PDP is a political party in disarray, struggling to reclaim lost relevance by grasping at straws.”

    Itua also stated that the good people of Edo State were not fooled, thereby knowing that Okpebholo was focused on delivering on his mandate, restoring public confidence in governance, and bringing Edo back to the path of peace, prosperity, and progress.

  • Edo Gov offsets medical bills of detained mother, newborn

    Edo Gov offsets medical bills of detained mother, newborn

    Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo has paid the medical bills of a mother and a newborn detained for over two weeks by the management of University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in Benin, Edo State. 

    Okpebholo, besides settling the outstanding medical bills, also facilitated the discharge of the mother and baby.

    The Governor, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Health Matters, Precious Ogboru, and the Executive Assistant, James Iorkusah, visited the mother and newborn at UBTH, while stating the State Government’s commitment to the health and welfare of the residents, especially the vulnerable.

    Okpebholo reiterated his administration placed a premium on the well-being of Edo residents, promising that health intervention programmes would soon be launched across the state to support indigent people facing similar challenges.

    Ogboru and Iorkusah said: “This intervention aligns with the SHINE transformational agenda of the present administration of Governor Okpebholo in Edo State.

    “Edo governor, upon learning of the case, immediately instructed us to ensure that the medical bills were paid, first thing this (Saturday) morning. This gesture reflects the compassionate leadership that defines Senator Monday Okpebholo’s administration.

    Read Also: Okpebholo promises Edo workers better welfare package

    “Plans are underway to roll out a comprehensive and state-wide health support initiative, targeting indigent residents. Some beneficiaries are already being attended to, even ahead of the formal launch.”

    The affected family, led by Mr. Innocent Akpan, expressed deep appreciation to Edo Governor for the timely intervention, which led to the release of his wife, Mercy Bassey, and the newborn.

    Akpan said: “I am overwhelmed with joy. For over two weeks, my wife and baby have been held here (UBTH), because we could not afford the hospital fees. 

    “Today (Saturday morning), thanks to the generosity of Edo State governor, we are going home free. God bless him (Okpebholo).”

    The Head of Public Relations and Protocol of UBTH, Dr. Joshua Uwaila, also hailed Edo Governor’s prompt action, while describing it as a true demonstration of compassion and responsive leadership.

  • Okpebholo promises Edo workers better welfare package

    Okpebholo promises Edo workers better welfare package

    Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo has assured that his administration will do everything within its powers to take care of Edo workers and make them happy.

    He gave the assurance at Government House, Benin, when he received the executive of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Edo chapter, led by its Acting Chairman, Comrade Bernard Egwekhide.

    Okpebholo noted that whatever Edo workers were enjoying was the responsibility of his worker-friendly administration.

    He said: “Whatever we are doing, which is favouring Edo workers, is done because it is our responsibility as a government. Edo people voted for us to work for them, and that is what we are doing to ensure life is made better for our people, including the workers.

    Read Also: Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo has paid a condolence visit to Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin

    “We embrace transparency in all what we do as a government, so as to enable the people to trust us, as we are not afraid of criticisms. Positive criticisms will put us on our toes to work harder for Edo people.

    “The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given us room and platform to perform and serve Edo people better, as we embark on practical governance.

    “We are doing everything in Edo State to ensure peace, unity, growth, and development. That is why we ensure smooth collaboration among the three tires of government. In all we do in the state, we ensure the three senatorial districts are carried along.”

    NLC’s acting chairman stated that he and members of his executive were in Government House to congratulate Edo governor on his victory at the governorship election petitions tribunal in Abuja that affirmed his victory in the September 21, 2024 election.

    He hailed Okpebholo for his developmental strides and the friendly environment created for Edo workers to operate.

    Egwekhide said: “Workers in Edo State are proud of you (Okpebholo) for your developmental strides in the state. You have created a friendly relationship between your administration and Edo workers, as you have always taken steps to favour the state’s workers.

    “Without asking, workers received their 13th month salary. You raised the subvention of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma from N41 million to N500 million. You regularised casual workers in Edo State. You increased what is due pensioners monthly from N50 million to N1 billion for both local and state pensioners.”

    The acting chairman of NLC in Edo also revealed that a committee had been set up to look into the compulsory pension scheme, which he said had become a burden on retired civil servants, and that the report would be submitted to Okpebholo for his action.

    He said: “We thank Edo governor for many employment opportunities given to our people in your very short time in office.”

    Meanwhile, Okpebholo also received the new branch Controller, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Edo state, Apanke Utande, who was on a courtesy visit to Government House, with Edo governor urging him to collaborate with his administration to improve the lives of the residents of the state.

  • Edo moving forward under Okpebholo’s leadership — Commissioner

    Edo moving forward under Okpebholo’s leadership — Commissioner

    Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communications Paul Ohonbamu has said Governor Monday Okpebholo is steering the state toward greater heights through the execution of capital-intensive and people-focused projects.

    Speaking on Thursday in Benin City, Ohonbamu noted that the increasing defection of prominent politicians from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was a clear endorsement of the transformation agenda being implemented by Okpebholo’s administration.

    “As the 2027 general elections approach, Edo APC and its leader, Senator Monday Okpebholo, are gaining momentum with strong support from opposition members and well-meaning residents of the state,” he said.

    He added that it was crucial for Edo people to prioritise the political and socio-economic development of the state, especially in light of what he described as eight years of underdevelopment under previous leadership.

    Ohonbamu also called on political leaders to engage in door-to-door sensitisation campaigns across the three senatorial districts to sustain the benefits of the state’s growing relationship with the federal government.

    Read Also: Okpebholo opens campaign for Tinubu’s re-election

    He said: “The APC will dislodge other political parties in Nigeria, with Governor Okpebholo at the helm of affairs, as the 2027 general elections draw closer, for continuity sake

    “Let us give full support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027, so as to bring more development and real dividends of democracy to Edo and other states of Nigeria. We have confidence in the capacity of President Tinubu to transform the country.

    “Let us continue to pray and support Governor Okpebholo’s government, which is determined to ensure greater Edo.”

    Ohonbamu also pointed out that with the unity currently reigning in Edo APC, the party was ready for victory in the 2027 general elections.

  • Okpebholo opens campaign for Tinubu’s re-election

    Okpebholo opens campaign for Tinubu’s re-election

    • Another PDP lawmaker defects to APC

    “The next general election, especially the 2027 presidential election, we are ready in Edo State. We have kick-started our own campaigns for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027. We have to mobilise youths in our state, and you are part of the youth. I promise you that you will enjoy our party as you have chosen to join us.”

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo said this yesterday while kick-starting President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign in the state.

    Another member of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 24-member House of Assembly, Kaycee Osamwonyi, the representative of Uhunmwonde Constituency, who is a member of House Committee on Budget and Appropriation, yesterday defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    With Osamwonyi’s defection, APC now has 14 members, while PDP is left with 10 members in the House of Assembly.

    Okpebholo spoke at the Government House, Benin, when he received the defecting lawmaker (Osamwonyi), who was earlier received into the APC by the state Chairman of the party, Jarrett Tenebe, who later presented him to the governor.

    Read Also: Assembly okays Okpebholo’s request to recover state funds with consultants

    Okpebholo hailed Osamwonyi and his colleagues, who decided to join APC. He assured them that his administration would create a conducive atmosphere for all of them to operate and collaborate to develop Edo.

    The governor said his administration had embarked on developmental strides to transform all sectors of Edo economy, thereby making life better for residents.

    He said: “We congratulate you (Osamwonyi) on your returning home. Your coming is a plus for the party (APC), as we have five of you who have joined. You have made our party stronger.

    “A lot of people from other parties are ready to join our party, and soon there will be a carnival. I seek your help to drive development, and together, we will develop Edo State, and make life better for our people.

    “Uhunmwonde Local Government is very special to me, and together we can develop the area and open it for growth and development.

    Edo chairman of APC, presenting Osamwonyi to Okpebholo, said: ‘’APC is now in full control of the House of Assembly, in view of having the majority of the lawmakers.’’

    Tenebe said: “Osamwonyi joined the party (APC), following the developmental strides your (Okpebholo’s) administration has achieved in the few months you have led Edo State.”

    Osamwonyi said his decision to join APC was as a result of the disunity in the PDP from the national to unit level, as well as the achievements of Okpebholo in a very short time in office.

    He said: “The division in my party, the PDP, made me to join the APC. For me, it is a homecoming, as I was once in the APC. Your (Okpebholo’s) developmental strides attracted me back home, as I want the best for my people.

    “The many projects captured in the budget for Uhunmwonde people are impressive. I have no choice but to join the party (APC), for the development of my people.”

    Edo Chairman of PDP, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, however, declared that Okpebholo was overwhelmed by insecurity across the state’s 18 local governments.

    He hoped the party’s governorship candidate during the September 21, 2024 election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, would emerge victorious at the Court of Appeal, having lost at the Election Petitions Tribunal in Abuja, to ensure good governance.

  • Okpebholo: Because I am involved

    Okpebholo: Because I am involved

    • By Fred Itua

    Sir: At every defining moment in a nation’s journey, the call to give account of stewardship becomes not just necessary but inevitable. This duty is more profound for those whom providence has favoured to sit at the helm, guiding the affairs of the state and shaping the future of the people. In 1989, the late Ikemba Nnewi, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, published Because I Am Involved, a 208-page introspective chronicle that offered a gripping account of his political convictions, nationalist ideals, and reflections on Nigeria’s unrealised potentials, and the personal sacrifices he made for a country he so deeply loved.

    In that same spirit, this article borrows its title and energy from Ojukwu’s classic. Today, in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo personifies that commitment. Since he assumed office, it is no longer business as usual. The tides have shifted, and the wheels of governance are now being turned by a sense of duty, urgency, and resolve.

    Because Governor Okpebholo is involved, educational transformation is underway, and a solid foundation is being built for tomorrow’s leaders. Governor Okpebholo’s approach to education is holistic and strategic. His administration is actively implementing a three-pronged intervention model: infrastructure, manpower, and pedagogy.

    Firstly, several dilapidated schools across the three senatorial districts are undergoing comprehensive rehabilitation to create safe and conducive learning environments. Secondly, the recruitment of qualified teachers is ongoing to plug manpower deficits in critical subjects. Thirdly, the retraining and retooling of educators is being carried out to align teaching methodologies with 21st-century pedagogical standards, including digital literacy and learner-centred techniques.

    Read Also: NRC suspends Warri-Itakpe train operations as engine develops fault

    Because he is involved, agriculture has received unprecedented attention. Governor Okpebholo’s administration has significantly increased budgetary allocation to the agricultural sector. Over 3,000 hectares of arable farmland are being cultivated under various agricultural empowerment initiatives.

    Beyond mere cultivation, partnerships with private investors are being explored to establish agro-processing hubs that will reduce post-harvest losses, promote value addition, and create employment opportunities, especially for youth and women in rural areas.

    Governor Okpebholo has embarked on an ambitious infrastructural renewal program, particularly in road construction. His administration has flagged off several strategic road projects that serve as vital arteries, linking communities, enhancing commerce, and easing transportation. Among these are the Ekpoma-Uromi-Ubiaja Road and the Uromi-Onewa-Udomi-Ibhiolulu-Afuda-Idumoza axis, all crucial to inter-community trade. Urban renewal projects in Benin City are also receiving a facelift, with several roads being re-asphalted, drainages reconstructed, and streetlights installed for enhanced security and aesthetics.

    Because he is involved, security is being tackled both in policy and practice. Governor Okpebholo has led the enactment of anti-cultism and anti-kidnapping laws to strengthen the legal framework for fighting insecurity. Complementing this legislative stance is the purchase of thousands of operational vehicles and logistics support for the Nigeria Police and other security agencies across the state.

    Community policing structures are being revived, and a feedback mechanism has been introduced where citizens can report threats anonymously to a centralized command centre.

    In the health sector, the renovation of primary health care centres and recruitment of frontline health workers have been intensified. Governor Okpebholo’s administration is also working toward the expansion of the Edo Health Insurance Scheme to cover more vulnerable populations.

    His interest in digital governance is birthing innovations that streamline internal processes, curb leakages, and promote transparency. This includes the digitization of land administration, tax payments, and record-keeping for government workers.

    Ojukwu once wrote, “I do not seek to please, I seek to serve.” Governor Okpebholo, through his visible and people-centred governance, has made it clear: he is not in power for fanfare or personal gain. He is in office because he is involved — involved in the pains of his people, the cries of rural dwellers, the frustrations of commuters, the dreams of schoolchildren, and the aspirations of a new Edo State.

    The journey is not without its challenges, but one truth is undeniable: under Governor Monday Okpebholo, Edo State is no longer on autopilot. There is direction. There is purpose. Above all, there is involvement.

    •Fred Itua,

     Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Benin City.

  • Okpebholo flags off Tinubu’s 2027 campaign as another PDP lawmaker joins APC

    Okpebholo flags off Tinubu’s 2027 campaign as another PDP lawmaker joins APC

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

    In a related development, another lawmaker from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kaycee Osamwonyi, representing Uhunmwonde Constituency in the 24-member Edo State House of Assembly, defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Osamwonyi is a member of the House Committee on Budget and Appropriation.

    With his defection, the APC now holds a majority with 14 lawmakers, while the PDP has ten remaining members.

    Governor Okpebholo received Osamwonyi at the Government House in Benin City, following his formal reception into the APC by the state party chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, who presented him to the governor.

    Commending Osamwonyi and others who have joined the APC, Okpebholo assured them of an inclusive and supportive environment to work together for the progress of Edo State.

    He reiterated his administration’s commitment to ongoing developmental efforts aimed at revitalising all sectors of the state’s economy and improving the lives of its residents.

    He said: “We congratulate you (Osamwonyi) for returning home. Your coming is a plus for the party (APC), as we have five of you who have joined, and you have made our party stronger.

    “A lot of people from other political parties are ready to join our party, and soon there will be a carnival. I seek your help to drive development, and together, we will develop Edo State, and make life better for our people.

    Read Also: Tackling terrorism requires unified, regional strategy – Police Affairs Minister

    “Uhunmwonde Local Government is very special to me, and together we can develop the area and open it for growth and development.

    “The next general elections, especially the 2027 presidential election, we are ready in Edo State. We have kick-started our own campaigns for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027. We have to mobilise the youths in our state, and you are part of the youths. I promise you that you will enjoy our party as you have chosen to join us.”

    Edo chairman of APC, while presenting the defector (Osamwonyi) to Okpebholo, reiterated that the party (APC) was now in full control of the state’s House of Assembly, in view of having the majority of the lawmakers.

    Tenebe said: “Hon. Osamwonyi joined the party (APC), following the developmental strides your (Okpebholo’s) administration has achieved in the few months you have led Edo State.”

    Osamwonyi, in his remarks, stated that his decision to join APC was a result of the disunity in the PDP from the national to unit level, as well as the achievements of Okpebholo in a very short time in office.

    The defector said: “The division in my party, the PDP, made me to join the APC. For me, it is a homecoming, as I was once in the APC. Your (Okpebholo’s) developmental strides attracted me back home, as I want the best for my people.

    “The many projects captured in the budget for Uhunmwonde people is impressive. I have no choice, but to join the party (APC), for the development of my people.”

    Edo Chairman of PDP, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, however, declared that Okpebholo was overwhelmed by insecurity across the state’s 18 LGAs, while expressing optimism that the party’s governorship candidate during the September 21, 2024 election in Edo, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, would emerge victorious at the Court of Appeal, having lost at the election petitions tribunal in Abuja, to ensure good governance.

  • Assembly okays Okpebholo’s request to recover state funds with consultants

    Assembly okays Okpebholo’s request to recover state funds with consultants

    The 24-member Edo State House of Assembly has approved Governor Monday Okpebholo’s request to engage a consultant, Tiarua White Consults Ltd, in the recovery of state’s funds. 

    The consultant, yesterday, according to Okpebholo, would review, reconcile and recover the funds due to Edo government from project Gazelle Afriexim loan and other crude oil loan arrangements. The deduction at source of 10 per cent as professional fee was also approved.

    The request letter, signed by Okpebholo, was read to lawmakers during the plenary session by the Speaker, Chief Blessing Agbebaku.

    The governor said the purpose of the letter was to draw the attention of the lawmakers to the challenge, and to request approval to join the 35 other states to recover the amount due to it from the project Gazelle Afriexim loan.

    Read Also: The Road to 2027

    Agbebaku said there was need to support and grant the request of Okpebholo, noting that the funds would aid socio-economic development in Nigerian states.

    The lawmakers, in a voice vote, approved the governor’s request to engage the consultant to recover the loan.

    Also at plenary, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Edo chapter, in a letter to the House of Assembly dated April 8, 2025, nominated Mr. Charity Aiguobarueghian for the position of minority leader and Yekini Idiaye as the minority whip.

    Airobarueghian, until April 7, was the majority leader, but a change was effected, in view of the fact that the governing APC now has 13 members, while the main opposition PDP is left with 11 lawmakers in the assembly.

  • Edo Assembly backs Okpebholo’s move to hire consultant for fund recovery

    Edo Assembly backs Okpebholo’s move to hire consultant for fund recovery

    The Edo State House of Assembly has approved Governor Monday Okpebholo’s request to engage Tiarua White Consults Limited to assist in the recovery of funds owed to the state from the Project Gazelle Afriexim loan and other crude oil loan arrangements.

    Governor Okpebholo’s letter, read during Tuesday’s plenary by Speaker Chief Blessing Agbebaku, also secured the Assembly’s approval for a 10 percent deduction at source as the consultant’s professional fee.

    The governor explained that Edo State seeks to join 35 other states in reclaiming funds due from the loan initiative, emphasizing the need for legislative support to move forward.

    Speaker Agbebaku backed the request, noting the potential for the recovered funds to drive socio-economic development across the state.

    Read Also: Edo Assembly gets new Majority Leader, Chief Whip

    Following a voice vote, lawmakers granted approval for the consultancy engagement.

    In a related development, the House also received a letter from the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dated April 8, 2025, nominating Mr. Charity Aiguobarueghian as the new Minority Leader and Yekini Idiaye as Minority Whip.

    The changes followed a shift in the Assembly’s composition, with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) now holding 13 seats, and the PDP reduced to 11. 

    Aiguobarueghian had previously served as the Majority Leader until April 7, 2025.

  • Ganduje, Okpebholo, Ebie, others to welcome DUG members to APC

    Ganduje, Okpebholo, Ebie, others to welcome DUG members to APC

    The national chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Edo state governor, Monday Okpebholo and Chiedu Ebie, Chairman, Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), along other notable political figures in Delta state, are among the dignitaries expected to welcome members of the Delta Unity Group (DUG), to the ruling APC.

    According to the statement by Jerome-Mario Utomi, Ebie’s media aide, the event slated for this Saturday at the old Bendel Hotel, Boji Boji Owa, Agbor, Delta state, would have the National Chairman of the APC and Governor Okpebholo as special guests of honour.

    Described as a major political earthquake, the switch to the APC by the members of the DUG, watchers of Delta politics posit, will significantly alter the balance of party dominance in the state as the group is majorly peopled by hardcore Peoples Democratic Party, PDP grassroots politicians who have been the life wire of the party in Delta since the return of democracy 26 years ago.

    According to the statement, “The DUG, defection to APC is part of honest, strategic and concerted efforts by the Patriots in Delta to rescue the state from the harrowing and inept leadership of the PDP.”

    Read Also: Alausa, Ganduje, Marwa, others for LASU convocation

    “Ebie, who was suspended by the PDP for a trumpet anti-party activities, and afterward, in August 2023, joined the APC, party insiders and stakeholders stress, has engraved his name in the hearts of Deltans with life-changing projects.” 

    DUG, a PanDelta political association promoting unity and brotherliness within the political landscape of Delta State, has Ebie, a former Delta State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education and Secretary to the State Government (SSG), respectively, as co-convener.

    Since 2023 when it was birthed, DUG has, through persistent promotion of objective inclusivity and participatory democracy, people focused leadership anchored on equity, justice, fairness and other collaborative efforts made great inroad in Delta state political landscape, and presently has in its kits well over 5,000 registered members in Ika Federal Constituency alone.