From our Political desk, Benin
The State Working Committee (SWC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Edo; have ratified the adoption of Hon. Joe Ikpea as candidate of the Party for the bye-election to fill the vacant seat of the State Central Senatorial District.
The Party’s Caucus in the district last Sunday, 29 June, 2025 in a meeting held in Benin City, adopted Ikpea as the candidate for the bye-election.
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The SWC of the APC made the ratification weekend; 4 July, 2025 in Benin, in an extra ordinary meeting where critical decisions aimed at strengthening the Party’s unity, internal cohesion, and political outreach across the State, were reached.
This was made known in a statement by the Party’s State Publicity Secretary, Prince Peter Uwadiae and availed the media in the State Capital.
“In line with the Party’s commitment to inclusiveness and respect for grassroots leadership, key discussions were held regarding the forthcoming bye-elections.
“The Party reaffirmed its recognition and respect for the leadership structures at both the Federal Constituency and Senatorial District levels.
“As the Vice Chairman of Edo Central Senatorial District, Hon. Esangbedo formally informed the SWC that the APC Caucus in Edo Central had unanimously adopted Hon. Joe Ikpea for the sole candidacy of the Senatorial bye-election.
“Following his presentation, the SWC, through a voice vote, ratified the adoption of Hon. Ikpea as the Party’s official candidate.”
On the matter concerning the Ovia Federal Constituency, the Vice Chairman of Edo South Senatorial District, Hon. Benson Edosomwan, briefed the Committee that a meeting has been scheduled for Monday, 7th July, 2025 to deliberate and resolve the issue, it was stated.
“Consequently, the SWC has fixed Tuesday, 8th July, 2025 for final resolution and ratification.”
Also, the SWC took some decisions to instill discipline and promote respect within the Party, as it frowned at the unbecoming behaviour of some members in Oredo and Ovia South-West Local Government Areas of the State, it was stated.
“In its effort to enforce discipline and maintain decorum within the Party, the SWC expressed strong disapproval over recent misconducts by some members in Oredo and Ovia South-West Local Government Areas.
“It was particularly concerned about damaging social media publications attributed to Mrs. Stella Ogbetta, which have tarnished the image of the Party.
“The State Secretary, Engr. Lawrence Okah, reported that the Oredo LGA Executive Committee had convened and recommended a six-month suspension for Mrs. Ogbetta.
“Having received the formal communication from the LGA, the SWC ratified the suspension and further resolved that at the expiration of the six-month period, Mrs. Ogbetta must tender a formal letter of apology to the SWC. Failure to do so will result in her expulsion from the Party.
“However, in contrast, the SWC noted the remorse shown by Mrs. Mabirie and acknowledged the intervention of the Ovia South-West LGA Executive.
“Accordingly, the LGA Chairman has been directed to ensure amicable reconciliation between the concerned parties.
“Both women are expected to work collaboratively for the success of the APC in the upcoming bye-election in the LGA.”
This is as the “SWC reaffirmed its commitment to fairness, discipline, and strategic unity as it prepares for the bye-elections and future electoral victories across the state,” it was stated.
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