In a stunning display of political might, the All Progressives Congress (APC) wrapped up its gubernatorial campaign yesterday with a rally that will be remembered for years. Headlined by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima and supported by at least eight serving governors, the event solidified the APC’s status as the frontrunner in the upcoming September 21, 2024 election.

Beneath the vibrant banners, enthusiastic cheers, and lively displays, an undeniable shift in the political landscape was evident. Two of Edo State’s most influential political figures, Rt. Hon. Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama and Distinguished Senator Francis Alimikhena, made headlines by officially announcing their defection to the APC, sending shockwaves throughout the state.

Ogbeide-Ihama, a two-term member of the House of Representatives, is highly regarded for his strong grassroots influence in Oredo, one of the largest voting districts in Edo State. His deep connections with the community make him an invaluable addition to the APC. Similarly, Alimikhena, who served two terms representing Edo North in the Senate, brings a considerable following to the party. Both politicians were previously significant supporters of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and their shift has left the PDP reeling.

This defection could not have come at a more challenging time for Governor Godwin Obaseki and the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate, Asue Ighodalo. Ogbeide-Ihama had played a crucial role in the PDP’s strategy during the last general election, while Alimikhena was closely aligned with Obaseki. Now, with both political stalwarts firmly in the APC camp, the election dynamics have changed dramatically.

As one political analyst remarked, “This is not just a defection; it’s a turning point.” With Ogbeide-Ihama’s influence in Oredo and Alimikhena’s stronghold in Edo North, APC’s gubernatorial candidates, Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa, are now positioned even more favorably to secure victory in the upcoming election.

This development is more than just the loss of two high-profile politicians for the PDP; it reflects a growing disillusionment within the party as key figures continue to align with the APC. For Governor Obaseki and Asue Ighodalo, the path to victory has become increasingly uncertain, with critical support slipping away in these crucial final days of the campaign.

Conversely, the APC is riding high on this wave of momentum. The grand finale rally attracted a massive crowd, showcasing the party’s unity and fostering an atmosphere of celebration and confidence. Supported by his running mate, Dennis Idahosa, Monday Okpebholo is emerging as the clear favorite to lead Edo State into a new era of progress and development.

As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the defections of Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama and Francis Alimikhena to the APC have dramatically reshaped the balance of power in Edo State. What was once anticipated to be a closely contested race now appears to heavily favor the APC, with many predicting a decisive victory for Monday Okpebholo and his team.