The chances of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Sen. Monday Okpebholo of winning the September 21 election received a boost as a section of the “Obidient” Movement in Edo on Monday pledged their support for the party and its candidate.
Recall that another section of the movement a few weeks ago also pledged their support for the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, Asue Ighodalo.
This group which comprised members from the Edo South Senatorial District on Monday said they are supporting Okpebholo because of his close ties with the people.
The coordinator general of the movement, Ikhuenbor Igbinevbo disclosed this during a meeting with the APC candidate where he said they are lovers of good governance, fairness and accountability.
According to him, “We supported Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election because we felt it was the turn of Igbo.
“Right now in Edo, it is the turn of Esan and we need the most qualified that will work for everybody and not a stranger.”
On his part, the APC candidate lauded the movement for the support and pledged to repay the confidence reposed in him if voted to power.
He said “If they had done well, I would not have contested. I urged you to punish them with your votes because if you leave it for them, our unborn children will suffer,” he added.
Reacting to the development, the Edo State LP Publicity Secretary, Sam Uruopa carpeted the move saying said, “It is absurd to hear that Obidient movement is supporting Okpebholo just the way some also said they were Obidient movement for Asue Ighodalo.
“The Obidient movement is synonymous with the Labour Party and are integral members of the party.
“They have forgotten so soon how the party was denied the use of the Sam Ogbemudia Stadium before the presidential election. So how can these people now say they are Obidient members and they are supporting Okpebholo or Ighodalo?
“For me, they have run out of ideas and do not know what they are doing at this point. They cannot be Obidient movement have work against the party candidate, Olumide Akpata.”
“They have forgotten so soon how the party was denied the use of the Sam Ogbemudia Stadium before the presidential election. So how can these people now say they are Obidient members and they are supporting Okpebholo or Ighodalo?
“For me, they have run out of ideas and do not know what they are doing at this point. They cannot be Obidient movement have work against the party candidate, Olumide Akpata.”