Esan South East local government area witnessed an unprecedented political gathering on Tuesday as Senator Joseph Ikpea, representing Edo Central senatorial district, hosted Prince Louis Osobase and his supporters in his hometown, Ewatto.
The event, which attracted a massive crowd, brought together leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across Esan South East, alongside key political stakeholders.
The occasion marked a significant political shift, as members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party officially defected to the APC in what many described as a major political realignment in the area.
Speaking at the event, the APC leader in Esan South East local government, Hon. Victor Eboigbe, expressed appreciation to all attendees for their presence.
He gave special recognition to the new entrants into the party, particularly Prince Louis Osobase, describing him as a strong political figure whose influence had previously shaped opposition politics in the locality.
Hon. Eboigbe noted that Prince Osobase’s decision to join the APC was inspired by the visible developmental strides of the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, as well as the impactful representation of Senator Joseph Ikpea.
He warmly welcomed the defectors and acknowledged the strength and capacity they bring into the party.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Senator Joseph Ikpea expressed his delight at the massive turnout and the influx of new members into the APC.
He described Prince Louis Osobase as a formidable political force whose presence in the APC would further strengthen the party’s structure in Esan South East.
“I am overwhelmed by this large gathering and the number of decampees we are receiving today. Prince Louis Osobase has been a major factor in the political landscape of this local government. Now that you have joined us, our work becomes easier,” Senator Ikpea stated.
He assured the new members of full acceptance and emphasized the need for unity and collaboration, stressing that the party would work in synergy to foster development and progress across the local government.
In his response, Prince Louis Osobase expressed gratitude to the APC for the warm reception accorded to him and his supporters. He reaffirmed his commitment to the party’s leadership and pledged loyalty moving forward.
Prince Osobase emphasized that his defection was not an individual move but a collective decision taken alongside his political structure across the ten wards of Esan South East. He stated that their decision to join the APC was driven by the desire to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing development efforts in Edo State.
He commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his performance and also appreciated Senator Joseph Ikpea for his leadership and hospitality. He further assured the party of his continuous support and dedication to advancing the political and developmental agenda of Esan land.
The event ended on a high note, with party faithful expressing optimism that the defection would further consolidate the APC’s dominance in Esan South East and strengthen grassroots mobilization ahead of future political engagements.
