Ogbeide-Ihama and Francis Alimikhena’s Switch To APC: A Blow Too Severe To Ignore
In a spectacular show of strength, the All Progressives Congress (APC) closed its gubernatorial campaign yesterday with a rally that will be talked about for years to come. Led by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima and no fewer than eight serving governors, the event was a resounding success, cementing the APC’s position as the party to beat in the upcoming September 21st, 2024 election.
But beyond the banners, cheers, and colorful displays, there was an unmistakable sense that something truly momentous had occurred. 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 state’s political landscape.
Ogbeide-Ihama, a two-term member of the House of Representatives, is widely respected for his deep grassroots influence in Oredo, a district with one of the largest voting populations in Edo State. His political acumen and strong connection to the people make him an invaluable asset to the APC. Meanwhile, Alimikhena, who represented Edo North for two terms in the Senate, brings his own substantial following to the fold. Both men were once staunch pillars of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), but their decision to switch allegiance has left the PDP camp reeling.
Their move to the APC couldn’t have come at a worse time for Governor Godwin Obaseki and the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate, Asue Ighodalo. Ogbeide-Ihama had been a central figure in the PDP’s strategy during the last general election, while Alimikhena was closely aligned with Obaseki. Now, both political heavyweights stand firmly with the APC, reshaping the dynamics of the election.
As one political observer put it, “This is not just a defection; it’s a turning point.” With Ogbeide-Ihama’s influence in Oredo and Alimikhena’s stronghold in Edo North, the APC’s gubernatorial candidates, Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa, are now in an even stronger position to claim victory in the upcoming 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’s ranks, as key figures continue to shift their loyalty to the APC. For Governor Obaseki and Asue Ighodalo, the road to victory has become increasingly uncertain, with critical support slipping away in the crucial final days of the campaign.
The APC, on the other hand, is riding high on this wave of momentum. With the grand finale rally drawing a massive crowd and showcasing the party’s unity, the atmosphere was one of celebration and confidence. Monday Okpebholo, backed by the solid support of his running mate Dennis Idahosa, is emerging as the clear favorite 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 shifted the balance of power in Edo State. What was once shaping up to be a closely fought race now appears to be leaning heavily in favor of the APC, with many already predicting a decisive victory for Monday Okpebholo and his team.
The countdown to election day has begun, but for many, the result already seems inevitable.
Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah is the Chairman and CEO of Bush Radio Academy.
