By DADA AYOKHAI
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Etsako West Local Government Area suffered a significant setback with the high-profile defection of Chief Lucky James to the All Progressives Congress (APC)
Chief James, the trailblazing Executive Chairman of Etsako West LGA (1999-2003) and former Best LGA Chairman in the state, pledged to leverage his experience to bolster the APC’s growth and presence across all wards.
After his defection, Chief James, who previously served as Director General of the Asue Ighodalo campaign organization, stated, “I’m thrilled to be back home in the APC after a brief absence. My aim is to add value to the party and support the current administration led by Sen. Monday Okpebholo, not to drag party leadership positions.
Chief James is returning to the party he helped establish in the state, alongside former Edo State Governor Comrade Adams Oshiomhole. Interestingly, both leaders share a common heritage, hailing from the same ward and local government area.
In acknowledgment of Chief James’s contributions, Governor Adams Oshiomhole appointed him as Special Adviser and later Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, recognizing his value in helping achieve gubernatorial ambition.
Chief James was warmly received into the party by the duo of Alhaji Adams Mumin, Chairman of APC Ward 10, and Hon. Dauda Ahmed, Chairman of APC Etsako West LGA. Both leaders extended a warm welcome, praising his decision to join the party and assuring him of equal opportunities within the APC.
Ward Chairman Adams Mumin described Chief James as a grassroots politician with a strong base across Edo North. He noted, “With his background as a former commissioner, local chairman, and director-general of the Asue Ighodalo campaign organization, his return to APC signifies a major boost for us. In Ward 10, the PDP has lost a key figure, and it’s clear that Ward 10 is now firmly APC territory.”
APC Etsako West Chairman Hon. Dauda Ahmed warmly welcomed Chief James, saying his return would bolster the party’s strength. “His experience and grassroots clout are invaluable assets. I’m delighted to formally welcome him back to the APC, and I’m confident he’ll contribute significantly to our future successes.”
