A blow too hard to ignore – TrendyNewsReporters

Ogbeide-Ihama and Francis Alimikhena’s move to APC: A blow too hard to ignore

In a spectacular show of strength, the All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday closed its governorship campaign with a rally that will be talked about for years to come. Led by Deputy President Senator Kashim Shettima and no fewer than eight incumbent governors, the event was a resounding success, cementing the APC’s position as the party to beat in the upcoming September 21, 2024 elections.

But beneath the banners, cheers and colourful displays, there was an unmistakable sense that something truly momentous had happened. Two of Edo State’s most prominent political figures, Rt. Hon. Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama and Distinguished Senator Francis Alimikhena, officially announced their defection to the APC, sending shockwaves through the political landscape of the state.

Ogbeide-Ihama, a two-term member of the House of Representatives, is widely respected for his deep popular influence in Oredo, a district with one of the largest voting populations in Edo State. His political acumen and strong connection with the people make him an invaluable asset to the APC. Meanwhile, Alimikhena, who represented Edo North for two terms in the Senate, brings with him his substantial following. Both men were once steadfast pillars of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), but their decision to switch allegiances has left the PDP camp in shock.

Their move to the APC could not have come at a worse time for Governor Godwin Obaseki and PDP gubernatorial candidate Asue Ighodalo. Ogbeide-Ihama had been a central figure in the PDP strategy during the last general elections, while Alimikhena was closely aligned with Obaseki. Now, both political heavyweights are firmly in favor of the APC, reshaping the dynamics of the election.

As one political observer put it, “This is not just a defection; it is a turning point.” With Ogbeide-Ihama’s influence in Oredo and Alimikhena’s stronghold in Edo North, APC gubernatorial candidates Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa are now in an even stronger position to claim victory in the next election.

This development signals more than just the loss of two high-profile politicians for the PDP. It highlights a growing disillusionment within the party ranks, as key figures continue to shift their loyalties to the APC. For Governor Obaseki and Asue Ighodalo, the path to victory has become increasingly uncertain, with critical support eroding in the crucial final days of the campaign.

The APC, on the other hand, is riding the wave of this momentum. With the final rally drawing a huge crowd and showcasing the party’s unity, the mood was one of celebration and confidence. Monday Okpebholo, backed by the solid support of his running mate Dennis Idahosa, is emerging as the clear frontrunner to lead Edo State into a new era of progress and development.

As the dust settles, one thing is certain: the defection of Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama and Francis Alimikhena to the APC has dramatically changed the balance of power in Edo State. What was once shaping up to be a close contest now appears to be tipped heavily in favor of the APC, with many already predicting a decisive victory for Monday Okpebholo and his team.

The countdown to the election has begun, but for many the outcome already seems inevitable.

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah is the President and CEO of Bush Radio Academy.