A shifting political tide in Edo State, particularly the Central Senatorial District is raising fresh questions about the strength of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s base, as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) continues to attract defectors from across party lines, including members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The development is emerging as a potential hurdle to the governor’s widely publicised ambition to mobilise 3.5 million votes in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the next general election cycle. What was once projected as a confident political target is now being reassessed in light of growing dissent within the governor’s stronghold.
At the centre of the unfolding realignment is Esanland, Okpebholo’s home base, where recent political gatherings have underscored the ADC’s rising influence. In Ewohimi, Esan South East Local Government Area, the party staged a high-profile reception for new entrants, drawing defectors not only from opposition groups like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), but also from within the APC itself.
The optics of the event have not gone unnoticed. For many observers, the visible defection of APC members in the governor’s own senatorial district signals a deeper undercurrent of dissatisfaction that could complicate political calculations going forward.
Edo State chairman of the ADC, Tony Alile, described the surge in membership as a reflection of public sentiment rather than political engineering. He argued that worsening socio-economic conditions have left many residents disenchanted with established parties, creating an opening for alternatives.
Echoing this position, prominent political figure Kenneth Imansuagbon said the defections point to a broader awakening among voters. According to him, the growing support for the ADC represents a conscious rejection of entrenched political structures and a desire for a new direction.
Analysts, however, are particularly focused on the implications for the APC. Defections from within the ruling party, especially in a governor’s home district, are often seen as an early warning sign of internal fractures. Such shifts, they note, can weaken grassroots mobilisation networks that are critical during elections.
Beyond the political maneuvering, local concerns appear to be playing a significant role in shaping voter behaviour. Residents continue to grapple with economic hardship, unemployment, and security challenges, issues that opposition figures say have eroded confidence in the current system and fuelled the search for alternatives.
The ADC is also using the momentum to position new faces for elective offices. Among them is Barnabas Odion, who has declared his intention to contest for the Esan South East State Constituency seat. He framed his ambition around the need for better representation and stronger grassroots engagement.