The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has recorded a significant influx of new members in Ward 4, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, following the defection of several residents drawn from the Arewa, Kogi and Esan communities.
The new members were received by the party’s candidate for Esan Central, Esan West and Igueben Federal Constituency, Hon. Louis Ebodaghe, alongside the Edo State ADC Woman Leader, Hon. Stella Alli, and the party’s House of Assembly candidate for Esan West, Hon. Anthony Asuan Osazuwa.
The gathering, which attracted women and other community members, was described by the party as a demonstration of growing political support and acceptance of its platform across different ethnic communities in the constituency.
Speaking during the reception, Ebodaghe welcomed the new members and assured them of equal treatment and participation in the party, irrespective of their ethnic backgrounds.
He said the ADC was committed to promoting inclusiveness and ensuring that all members had opportunities to contribute to the party’s activities and political direction.
According to him, the decision by members of the Arewa and Kogi communities, alongside their Esan counterparts, to join the party reflected a shared desire for political change and improved governance.
Also speaking, Alli welcomed women from Ward 4, Esan West, into the party, describing their decision to join the ADC as an important step towards greater women’s participation in politics.
She said women should no longer remain spectators in political processes, particularly those affecting their families, children and communities.
Alli maintained that the ADC recognised the importance of women’s contributions to governance and would provide opportunities for them to participate in decision-making.
She also encouraged more women across Esanland to join the party, arguing that economic challenges, rising living costs, unemployment and other social concerns made women’s participation in political affairs increasingly important.
In his remarks, Osazuwa expressed satisfaction with the turnout, describing the development as an indication of growing political interest in the ADC within Esan West.
He joined other party leaders in welcoming the new members and called for unity and collective commitment towards strengthening the party at the grassroots.
The event brought together women, community representatives and other residents, with the party highlighting the participation of different ethnic groups as evidence of its commitment to inclusiveness.
The latest development comes as political parties intensify grassroots mobilisation and efforts to expand their membership ahead of future electoral contests in Edo State.
However, the extent to which the reported influx of new members will translate into electoral support remains to be determined as political activities gather momentum.
