APC Battles Ahead of August 16 By-Elections with Strong Grassroots Momentum

Governor Monday Okpebholo has declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) battle-ready ahead of the August 16, 2025 by-elections, citing renewed grassroots momentum and a significant exodus of key figures from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The declaration was made during a political rally in Okada, where the governor formally received a fresh batch of prominent defectors into the APC fold, including Hon. Andrew Edobor Uzamere and Hon. Peter Ekhator. Their defection, coming barely three weeks to the by-elections, is seen as a significant political gain for the APC and a setback for the PDP.

Key Takeaways:

  • APC receives 5 high-profile defectors, including Hon. Andrew Edobor Uzamere and Hon. Peter Ekhator, from the PDP.
  • Defections happen barely three weeks to the by-elections, indicating a significant shift in support in favor of the APC.
  • Governor Monday Okpebholo attributes the wave of defections to growing confidence in his administration's performance and commitment to tangible governance.
  • The APC's campaign for the Ovia Federal Constituency by-election is set to be in full swing, with the party's candidate being referred to as "madam projects" due to her record of public service.
  • Deputy Governor Idahosa emphasizes the APC's expanding appeal across Edo is not just about political slogans, but the concrete transformation citizens are witnessing in their communities.
  • The high-profile defections are seen as a clear endorsement of the Okpebholo administration's results-driven governance by top party stalwarts, including Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku.

Statistics:

  • The APC has received 5 high-profile defectors from the PPD, including Hon. Andrew Edobor Uzamere and Hon. Peter Ekhator.
  • The defections happen barely three weeks to the by-elections.
  • The APC's campaign for the Ovia Federal Constituency by-election will soon be in full swing.
  • Governor Okpebholo has a campaign pledge to deliver 2.5 million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the upcoming elections.

Sources:

  • "Governor Okpebholo declares APC battle ready as prominent defectors join party" – ETW (no date mentioned)
  • Okpebholo's speech at the political rally in Okada (no specific date mentioned)
  • Governor Monday Okpebholo (video interview) – VGTV (no specific date mentioned)
  • Jarrett Tenebe, State APC Chairman (speech at the political rally) – ETW (no date mentioned)