The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party experienced another significant political setback on Friday following the defection of one of its most influential figures, Chief Tom Irehovbude, to the All Progressives Congress.
Chief Irehovbude, the Egbonghon of Ekpoma and a respected grassroots mobiliser from Esan West Local Government Area, led a large contingent of PDP supporters in crossing over to the APC.
The development adds to the recent wave of defections that have continued to reshape the state’s political landscape.
Earlier in the week, the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessings Agbebaku, along with four other PDP lawmakers, also joined the APC.
Their exit reduced the PDP’s representation in the 24-member Assembly from 14 to six.
Speaking to party members and supporters during his formal declaration, Chief Irehovbude credited his decision to join the APC to the leadership style and achievements of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
“I am joining the APC because I have seen what Sen. Monday Okpebholo is doing — touching lives, initiating meaningful development, and bringing governance closer to the people,” he declared. “I believe in leadership that works, and I am ready to contribute to that vision.”
Lauding the administration’s approach to governance, Chief Irehovbude described the APC’s leadership as “a breath of fresh air” and expressed full support for both Governor Okpebholo and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He also pledged to mobilise his political base to back the APC in future elections.
“This is a journey for the good of our people. I will work with the APC to ensure progress and prosperity reach every corner of our land. And come 2027, we shall stand by President Tinubu to ensure continuity of purposeful leadership,” he affirmed.
The defection is being interpreted as a strategic victory for the APC and a reflection of shifting political dynamics, especially within the Edo Central Senatorial District. Party leaders and supporters have celebrated the move as further evidence of Governor Okpebholo’s expanding influence and a sign of more high-profile defections to come.
Crowds of supporters erupted in cheers following the announcement, hailing Chief Irehovbude’s switch as a long-anticipated development that could bolster grassroots support for the APC across Esanland.
