A member of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Benue State, Hon. Godwin Abu Edoh, has said that the recent defection of Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso and other political heavyweights from the African Democratic Congress, ADC, to the New Democratic Coalition, NDC, has handed President Bola Tinubu a clear path to victory in the 2027 presidential election.
Edoh, who represents the Agatu State Constituency in the Benue State House of Assembly, made this assertion while speaking to journalists in Makurdi on Tuesday.
According to the lawmaker, the movement of the political gladiators from ADC to NDC has fragmented the opposition bloc and weakened any viable alliance that could challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in the next election cycle.
“The defection of these political gladiators is an open cheque for President Tinubu come 2027,” Edoh stated. “When you have major opposition figures pulling in different directions and forming another coalition outside the established structures, you are only making the job easier for the incumbent.”
He argued that rather than consolidating opposition forces under one platform to present a united front against the APC, the latest realignment has further scattered the political landscape and confused the electorate.
*Governor Alia’s Performance Commended*
Edoh also commented on the developmental strides of Governor Hyacinth Alia since assuming office. He said the governor has been consistent in *paying salaries, pensions, and clearing outstanding arrears*, alongside *massive infrastructural activities across the state*.
He particularly praised the governor for *undertaking the construction of an ongoing 35km road cutting across Egba – Okokolo – Obagai in Agatu LGA and extending to Agagbe along Naka in Gwer LGA*. According to him, the project, when completed, will open up the rural communities for trade, agriculture, and improved security.
“The governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare and road infrastructure is visible. In Agatu, we can feel the impact already, especially with the 35km road that has been a long-standing request of our people,” he said.
*PDP’s 2027 Governorship Prospects Dim*
On the PDP’s chances of clinching the governorship seat in 2027, Edoh maintained that the *ongoing crisis rocking the party continues to make its chances slimmer by the day*.
He lamented that internal wrangling and factional disputes within the Benue PDP have created an atmosphere of uncertainty, making it difficult for the party to present a united front ahead of the next election.
“If the PDP does not urgently resolve its crisis and reposition itself, then it will be difficult for us to even talk about winning the governorship in 2027. The people want stability, and right now, the APC under Governor Alia appears to be offering that,” he concluded.
Edoh called on PDP leaders at both state and national levels to put aside personal interests and work toward rebuilding the party if it hopes to remain a viable opposition force.