Felix Ikhuenbor Says Governor Okpebholo’s Leadership Inspired His Defection
Benin City, Nigeria – August 6, 2025 – In a major political realignment, a prominent figure in the Obidient Movement in Edo State, Ikhuenbor Felix Igbinevbo, popularly known as Mr. Figo, has officially dumped the Labour Party and joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Mr. Ikhuenbor, who served as the Edo State Coordinator of the Peter Obi-led Obidient Movement during the 2023 presidential elections, declared his defection during a visit to the APC leadership in Ohuan Ward, Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, on Tuesday.
“I Joined APC Because of Governor Okpebholo” – Ikhuenbor
Speaking during his declaration, Ikhuenbor explained that his decision to become a card-carrying member of a political party — for the first time in over five decades — was inspired by the leadership style and sincerity of Governor Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State.
“For the first time in my life, I have taken the decision to become a card-carrying member of any political party. I’m doing so because of one man, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo,” he said.
The former Obidient coordinator said that traveling with the governor across Edo North and Edo Central opened his eyes to the sincerity, grassroots connection, and developmental passion of the APC governor.
“My engagement with the governor in the past week, and particularly during my journey with him to several local government areas, shifted my perspective. I saw firsthand the zeal and sincerity in his developmental drives for Edo State,” Ikhuenbor stated.
From Activism to Active Politics
Well-known in Edo State for his activism and social advocacy, Mr. Figo noted that it was no longer enough to support good governance from the sidelines. He stressed that his defection to the APC was a deliberate step to “strengthen his voice” within a political structure that aligns with his values.
“I have been an activist and advocate for good governance for years. But now, I want to add value from within. Supporting Governor Okpebholo from the outside is no longer enough,” he declared.
Ikhuenbor pledged to work tirelessly to help the APC-led administration achieve people-focused governance in Edo State.
APC Welcomes Strategic Political Asset
The leadership of the APC in Ohuan Ward welcomed Ikhuenbor with enthusiasm, describing his defection as a boost to the party’s credibility and grassroots reach. His departure from the Obidient Movement, a major grassroots force during the 2023 elections, is seen as a significant shift that could influence political dynamics ahead of the 2025 governorship race.
Implications for Peter Obi and the Obidient Movement
Political observers say Mr. Figo’s departure highlights the growing internal challenges within the Labour Party and raises questions about the sustainability of the Obidient Movement at the grassroots level. Though the movement played a significant role in energizing youth participation in the 2023 general elections, recent defections could signal fragmentation or a shift in loyalty among former key coordinators.
