According to Vanguard, The All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, have received a significant endorsement ahead of the September 21 election. A faction of the "Obidient" Movement in Edo State has announced their support for the APC and Okpebholo. This development comes on the heels of another section of the movement pledging their support for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, a few weeks ago. The shifting alliances within the movement highlight the fluid political landscape in Edo as the election approaches.
The faction endorsing Okpebholo consists of members from the Edo South Senatorial District. They stated that their support stems from Okpebholo's strong connections with the local populace, suggesting a candidate who is in tune with the needs and aspirations of the community. This endorsement underscores the importance of local ties and grassroots support in the electoral process, particularly in regions where personal relationships and community engagement play a pivotal role in political success.
Ikhuenbor Igbinevbo, the coordinator general of this faction of the Obidient Movement, expressed their reasons for backing Okpebholo during a meeting with the APC candidate. Igbinevbo emphasized their commitment to good governance, fairness, and accountability as the driving forces behind their decision. This declaration indicates a shift in the movement's focus, from national politics to local leadership, aligning with candidates who they believe can deliver on these principles at the state level.
The Obidient Movement's support for Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, was based on a sense of regional fairness, as they felt it was the Igbo people's turn for the presidency. This recent endorsement of Okpebholo, however, reflects a more localized strategy, prioritizing candidates who can effectively address the specific needs of their communities. The movement’s evolving stance highlights the dynamic nature of political allegiances and the critical role of local issues in shaping voter preferences.
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.