Oshiomhole, who made this known at a meeting with leaders of the party in state in Benin, described the defectors as politicians who did not have the interest of the people of the state at heart.

Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, has said the All Progressives Congress in the state has been strengthened following the defection of some of its members.

He said the party, through the state government, was working tirelessly across the state to improve the lives of the people, despite the lean federal allocation, and would not relent in its efforts to place the state in an enviable position.

He also assured the party leader that his administration would continue to evaluate party activities through meetings and consultations and bridge the gap at the grassroots.

He said, “The APC is much stronger now than before because those who are in this party now are people who are here not because of what is in it for them, or what is in it for me and this is what distinguishes this party from others.

“After the party registration, ward, Local, State Congresses and National Congresses, this is the first meeting we are having with you and I think it is a very important meeting and I am happy that you have come here and there is no struggling at the gate about accreditation or fighting. It shows how disciplined our leaders are at the grass root level.

“Let me reassure party leaders here this afternoon from the 77 wards of Edo South that the APC government under my watch will continue to work for the people in spite of the lean financial resources, especially the drop in the Federal Allocation to the State.”

Meanwhile, the governor has approved the appointment of Mr. Dennis Idahosa as Commissioner-designate in the state.

According to a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Julius Ihonvbere, the swearing-in ceremony of Idahosa would be announced sequel to his confirmation by the state house of assembly.