The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Esan North East local government area of Edo State has voiced strong opposition to the composition of the 24-member transition committee appointed by the governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo. The party claims that several individuals on the committee are not affiliated with the APC.
During a press briefing on Sunday, Emmanuel Ibhagbemien, the local government chairman of the APC, specifically highlighted the inclusion of former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Matthew Egbadon, in the committee. Ibhagbemien accused Egbadon of collaborating with the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the September 21 governorship election.
He alleged that the inclusion of Egbadon was orchestrated by a business mogul and a traditional ruler from Edo Central, which he described as a blatant affront to the integrity of the APC.
“This inclusion is not only unusual but is clearly a calculated attempt to infiltrate our ranks and install individuals in key positions within the incoming administration,” Ibhagbemien stated. He emphasized that the party will not tolerate what he referred to as “intruders or opportunists” seeking to benefit from the party’s success without having contributed to it.
Ibhagbemien further identified the individuals behind this alleged maneuver, issuing a stern warning to them: “For their own sake, they must cease these unholy attempts to meddle in our party’s affairs.” He called out a prominent business mogul from Ewatto and a traditional ruler from Esan land for their involvement in Egbadon’s inclusion, asserting that their actions undermine the party’s values.
He concluded by urging the governor-elect to govern without undue interference, advocating for the formation of a government free from external meddling and allowing the APC to operate independently.