* As Party Unveils House of Assembly Aspirants
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has recorded a significant political gain in Edo Central, following a wave of defections from the district of Governor Monday Okpebholo, a development party leaders say booast its growing strength ahead of the 2027 elections.
The defectors, drawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), were received in Ewohimi, Esan South East Local Government Area, by the ADC State Chairman, Tony Alile, alongside party leader, Kenneth Imansuagbon.
The influx, described as a strategic breakthrough, is seen as a major inroad into the governor’s political base in Edo Central.
Addressing journalists, Alile said the defection was a clear reflection of public discontent and a sign of shifting political loyalty in the region.
“This is an organic, people-driven movement. Nobody was induced to be here. The turnout speaks volumes about the frustration in the land and the desire for a credible alternative,” he said.
He added that the development signals a changing tide in Esan land.
“The political tide has shifted. If elections were held today in Esan land, ADC would emerge victorious. Even committed members of other parties are identifying with us. ADC has come to stay.”
On internal party matters, Alile acknowledged existing grievances but noted that reconciliation efforts were ongoing.
“In every contest, there are bound to be aggrieved persons. However, we have activated our conflict resolution mechanisms to bring everyone together,” he stated.
Also speaking, Imansuagbon described the mass defection as a rejection of entrenched political structures.
“Edo people have made it clear that power does not belong to a few cartels. What you are seeing here is a revolt by the people,” he said.
“We are tired of kidnapping, hunger and unemployment. The people have found a platform they believe can take them to a better future.”
The event also featured the unveiling of new aspirants, including House of Assembly hopeful, Engr. Barnabas Odion, who declared his intention to contest the Esan South East State Constituency seat under the ADC.
Odion, a former PDP member, said his decision to defect was driven by the need to address neglect and poor representation in the area.
“Esan South East has suffered neglect in infrastructure and representation. I am offering myself as a vehicle for positive change,” he said.
Party leaders reiterated their commitment to consolidating the ADC’s presence across Edo State, describing the latest defections from the governor’s district as a major boost to the party’s grassroots expansion.
