The leadership of the Labour Party (LP) in Edo State on Friday made a desperate attempt to prevent the imminent defection of Senator Neda Imasuen to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Senator Imasuen, who represents Edo South and currently chairs the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, is reportedly on the verge of switching allegiance to the APC — a move that has stirred unease within the ranks of the LP.
In what appeared to be a last-ditch effort, senior figures within the LP stormed Senator Imasuen’s Amagba residence in Benin City, hoping to dissuade him from his planned departure. However, sources revealed that the party’s entreaties were firmly rebuffed.
Uptown Press gathered that Senator Imasuen has already secured the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his defection, paving the way for a seamless entry into the APC. In addition, he is said to have held consultations with key stakeholders within the Edo State chapter of the ruling party.
Political watchers have long anticipated the senator’s move, pointing to persistent internal crises and unresolved litigations that have plagued the Labour Party both in Edo State and nationally.
Speaking on the development, party stalwart Osifo Iguodalo expressed resignation at the news: “The Labour Party we all laboured to build is now a shadow of itself and in complete tatters. We are excited that our hardworking senator has finally made up his mind to leave. The rumour is true — Neda was with us today to inform us that he is moving us into the APC. We understand and are ready to go with him.”
Preparations are said to be underway within the Edo State APC to formally welcome Senator Imasuen into the party fold in the coming days. His defection would mark a significant political realignment in the State, especially in the run-up to the 2027 general elections.
