The Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, has fired back at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over what he described as misleading claims ahead of the upcoming bye-elections in the state.
Responding to remarks made by Jonny Ikponmwosa Aikpitanyi, PDP’s candidate for the Ovia Federal Constituency, Ohonbamu dismissed the opposition’s criticism of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s projection of 2.5 million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027, calling it a deliberate attempt to deceive the public and undermine Edo’s current political realities.
“The PDP in Edo State is now merely symbolic—it exists only in name,” Ohonbamu stated in a press release issued from Benin City.
He highlighted what he called a “political tsunami” of defections from the PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), adding that notable sons and daughters of the state are abandoning the opposition party in droves.
“No serious politician wants to remain in opposition,” he said. “Staying with a party that cannot deliver for the people is not in Edo State’s best interest.”
Ohonbamu further applauded President Tinubu’s administration for the “massive support” being extended to the Edo State Government, saying this backing is already translating into improved welfare for residents.
He also emphasized that Governor Okpebholo’s leadership is attracting renewed confidence in the APC across Edo State, pointing to the government’s development strides and grassroots outreach.
PDP Living in Dreamland – Ohonbamu
He advised PDP candidates for both the Ovia Federal Constituency and Esan Central Senatorial District bye-elections, scheduled for August 16, 2025, to “wake up from their fantasy” as the party has, in his words, lost all political relevance in the state.
“The remnants of the PDP should stop dreaming about winning any election in Edo. The people have already moved on,” he added.
Ohonbamu, a former Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, called on eligible voters across the state to support APC candidates in the upcoming elections, insisting that only alignment with the center (federal government) can guarantee dividends of democracy.
