BENIN CITY – The National Leader of the newly formed Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Seriake Dickson, has declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State is currently in a state of terminal collapse under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
Dickson’s assessment comes on the heels of a high-profile exodus of lawmakers and party stalwarts, signaling a major realignment in the state’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Exodus Begins
The most significant blow to the ruling party in Edo came yesterday, May 7, 2026, when Engr. Esosa Iyawe, representing Oredo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, officially resigned his membership from the APC.
In a strongly worded resignation letter, Iyawe cited “irreconcilable differences” and a lack of internal democracy within the party under Governor Okpebholo. Iyawe has since announced his move to Dickson’s NDC, describing it as a “haven for disciplined politics.”
The “Wike Factor” and Internal Sabotage
Insiders within the Edo APC suggest that the “collapse” is being fueled by a deepening rift between Governor Okpebholo’s administration and legacy party members.
- External Interference: There are growing allegations that the Governor is prioritizing a “strategic partnership” with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over the interests of his own party loyalists.
- Marginalisation in Edo South: Stakeholders in Edo South have raised alarms over the “imposition” of candidates for the 2027 primaries, claiming that the Governor’s office is sidelining those who were instrumental in his 2024 victory.
Dickson’s NDC: The New Third Force?
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, Senator Dickson pointed to the Edo situation as evidence that the APC’s foundation is cracking.
“There is no doubt that the APC in Edo State under Governor Okpebholo is collapsing,” Dickson stated. “What we are seeing is the result of a party that has abandoned its grassroots for transactional alliances. The NDC is here to provide a stable, principled alternative for Nigerians who are tired of this chaos.”
Government Response
In a swift reaction, the Edo State Government, through its spokesperson Kassim Afegbua, dismissed Dickson’s claims as “political grandstanding.” Afegbua insisted that Governor Okpebholo remains focused on his “A New Edo” agenda and that the departure of a few individuals would not affect the party’s strength.
However, with more lawmakers reportedly in talks with the NDC, the “collapsing” narrative is gaining momentum, threatening the APC’s grip on the heart of the South-South.
