Our reporter
In a dramatic political development, Hon. Dickson Ahonsi, the suspended Chairman of Owan West Local Government Area (LGA), alongside his suspended Vice Chairman, Asije Victoria, and five other prominent members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday.
The move comes shortly after Ahonsi and his deputy were impeached by the LGA lawmakers for alleged gross misconduct and financial misappropriation. This has marked a significant shift in local politics, with the defectors citing the recent political strides in Edo State as their primary motivation.
Ahonsi explained that the decision to join the APC was driven by the positive changes he had witnessed under the current administration, particularly the swift appointments made by Governor Okpebholo shortly after taking office.
“The government is active, and in less than two months, we’ve seen key positions filled promptly. Unlike the previous administration, which took months to make appointments, this administration is moving quickly and efficiently,” Ahonsi remarked.
He further emphasised that Edo State’s potential for growth was becoming evident, with projects already underway and plans for more developments in the pipeline. “If this momentum is maintained, Edo State will soon be a model for others to follow,” he said.
Ahonsi also assured his supporters that his defection was not just a personal decision, but one that reflected the will of many in his constituency. “I am a man of the grassroots, and my people are with me. This is not just about the few who are with me today, but I have the support of many more,” he stated.
The APC received the defectors warmly, with the party’s State Secretary, Lawrence Okah, expressing delight at the addition to the party’s ranks. He praised Ahonsi for his strong ties with the grassroots and assured him that the APC was committed to welcoming anyone who wished to join.
“Our doors are wide open for those who want to come on board. We know the importance of grassroots mobilisation, and we are pleased to have leaders like you join our fold,” Okah said.
Okah also noted that Ahonsi’s defection would have a significant impact, as he was joined by key council figures, including the Majority Leader, Chief Whip, and Deputy Majority Leader. He optimistically predicted further defections in the near future, especially in the West, and promised that the APC would continue to strengthen its grassroots presence.
In addition to Ahonsi and Victoria, the following PDP members defected to the APC: Hon. Oni Anthony Johnbull (Chief Whip, Sobe Ward II), Hon. Tunde Akele (Ward II), Hon. Thomas Goodluck Eseigbe (Majority Leader, Ward VI), Hon. Anthony Uadia (Sobe Ward IV), and Hon. Elijah Ohimai (Deputy Majority Leader, Ward I).
Earlier in the day, the Owan West Council lawmakers had impeached Ahonsi and Asije for alleged financial mismanagement and other charges. Hon. Saturday Ezomo was subsequently sworn in as the new Leader of the House and acting Chairman of the Council, taking over from the impeached officials.
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