Four members of the Edo State House of Assembly have defected to the All Progressives Congress.

The lawmakers — Hon. Donald Okugbe (Akoko Edo Constituency II), Hon. Bright Iyamu (Orhionmwon South Constituency II), Hon. Richard Edosa (Oredo West Constituency), and Hon. Sunday Ojezele (Esan South East) — stormed the APC Secretariat in Benin on Wednesday, where they were received by the APC State Working Committee, led by the acting state chairman, Jarret Tenebe.

With this development, the APC now has 13 members in the House, while the Peoples Democratic Party has 11. The Labour Party lost its only representative to the APC.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Edosa described the move as a defining moment for them.

Four Edo lawmakers defect to APC

12th March 2025

Edo-Assembly

Edo House of Assembly

By 

Adeyinka Adedipe

Four members of the Edo State House of Assembly have defected to the All Progressives Congress.

The lawmakers — Hon. Donald Okugbe (Akoko Edo Constituency II), Hon. Bright Iyamu (Orhionmwon South Constituency II), Hon. Richard Edosa (Oredo West Constituency), and Hon. Sunday Ojezele (Esan South East) — stormed the APC Secretariat in Benin on Wednesday, where they were received by the APC State Working Committee, led by the acting state chairman, Jarret Tenebe.

With this development, the APC now has 13 members in the House, while the Peoples Democratic Party has 11. The Labour Party lost its only representative to the APC.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Edosa described the move as a defining moment for them.

He stated that divisions within their former parties, from the national level down to the state and local governments, prompted their decision to leave.

He said, “A house divided against itself cannot stand. We believe in the vision of Governor Monday Okpebholo and have decided to join him in achieving his goals for Edo State. We promise to work with the governor

to build both the party and the state.”

Also speaking, Tenebe described the lawmakers’ defection as a significant moment for the ruling APC in Edo.

He assured them that the party would grant them the same rights and privileges as other members.

He said, “These Honourable Members, who bring with them a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives, have recognised that the APC offers the most promising path forward for Edo State and Nigeria. They have seen the clarity of the party’s policies, the integrity of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s leadership, and his unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Edo people.

“We understand that changing political allegiance is not a decision taken lightly. It requires courage, conviction, and a belief in a better future. We commend these Honourable Members for their bravery and willingness to stand with us as we join hands with Governor Okpebholo to build a stronger economy, improve education, promote social harmony, and secure the lives of Edo residents.

“This is not merely about increasing our numbers but about strengthening our collective resolve. It is about uniting individuals who share a common purpose and a desire to make a real difference. We value the contributions of every member, and we are confident that our new Honourable Members will play a vital role in our journey towards success.”

Earlier, the acting APC chairman, Jarret Tenebe, presented brooms — the party’s symbol — to each of the new APC lawmakers.

A triumph that lifts Edo football to continental spotlight

A wave of celebration swept through Benin City on Monday as Edo State marked a defining moment in its sporting history. The spotlight fell on the women of Edo Queens after their commanding success in West Africa.

At a reception held inside the Festival Hall, Government House, Governor Godwin Obaseki announced a ₦100 million cash reward for the team.

The gesture followed their dominant run at the 2024 WAFU-B Women's Champions League qualifiers in Côte d’Ivoire.

The champions secured a 3–0 victory over Ainonvi FC of Benin Republic in the final in Abidjan.

That win sealed their place in the CAF inter-club competition later this year.

Edo Queens WAFU-B Champions League win marks historic run

The Edo side did not just win the title. They controlled the tournament from start to finish.

They played five matches. They won all five.
They scored 14 goals. They conceded only once.

Their only defensive lapse came in a 2–1 win over Inter D’Abidjan.

The performance adds to an already impressive domestic record.
The team previously won the Sheroes Cup, Betsy Obaseki Cup, and the NWFL Premiership title.

This makes them one of Nigeria’s most consistent women’s teams in recent years.

Obaseki praises progress and promises continued support

Governor Obaseki described the victory as part of a wider transformation in Edo sports.

He said the success reflects years of investment in youth and women’s football.

“Before now, there was little recognition for Edo women in sports,” he said. “That has changed.”

He linked the achievement to sustained funding and policy support over the past eight years.

He also congratulated the players and encouraged them to target continental glory in the upcoming CAF competition.

“I will not say what comes next in rewards,” he added. “But you have made Edo and Nigeria proud.”

The governor’s remarks were delivered during a reception marking Edo State’s anniversary celebrations.

Coach Aduku credits funding and preparation

Head coach Moses Aduku praised government support, especially the swift release of funds before the tournament.

He said financial backing boosted team morale and preparation.

“We went in as underdogs,” he said. “But belief and support carried us through.”

Aduku added that the team’s early preparation for the CAF Women’s Champions League is already underway.

He described the next stage as tougher but achievable with the right preparation.

“We want to bring another trophy home,” he said.

Broader context: rise of women’s club football in Nigeria

Edo Queens’ success comes amid growing investment in women’s football across Nigeria.

State-backed clubs have begun to challenge traditional dominance in the NWFL.

The trend reflects wider continental changes, where women’s club competitions are gaining visibility and funding.

Edo’s model is now being closely watched as a possible blueprint for development.

what comes next for Edo Queens

The ₦100 million reward signals both recognition and expectation.

Edo Queens now shift focus to continental competition in Egypt.

Their performance in West Africa has raised expectations at home and abroad.

Consistency, preparation, and squad depth will determine how far they go next.

Edo Queens WAFU B Champions: Commanding Win in Bouaké

West African women’s football has a new statement side.

Edo Queens FC sealed the WAFU B title with authority, defeating Aïnonvi FC of Benin Republic 3-0 in the final.

The match took place at the Stade de la Paix de Bouaké in Côte d’Ivoire.

From the opening whistle, Edo Queens controlled the tempo. Their pressing was sharp. Their passing was precise.

According to match officials’ reports, the Nigerian side never lost control of the contest.

The result confirms them as Edo Queens FC and WAFU B champions.

Edo Queens WAFU B Champions: A Statement of Intent

This victory was more than a trophy win.

It also secured qualification for the CAF Women’s Champions League final stage.

That competition brings together the strongest women’s clubs across Africa.

Edo Queens will now represent West Africa on the continental stage.

Football analysts note the consistency of their performances throughout the qualifiers. Their defensive structure remained solid. Their attack was clinical when it mattered.

Edo Queens WAFU B Champions: How the Final Was Won

The final followed a clear pattern.

Edo Queens dictated possession early. Aïnonvi FC struggled to break their rhythm.

By halftime, the Nigerian champions had already established control.

In the second half, they pushed further forward and sealed the result with a third goal.

No late pressure shifted the balance.

The game closed with Edo Queens in full command.

Background: Rising Force in West African Women’s Football

WAFU B competitions have become a key pathway to continental football.

They often reveal emerging teams from Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Benin Republic.

Edo Queens’ rise reflects growing investment in women’s football in Nigeria.

It also signals a shift in regional dominance, with Nigerian clubs maintaining strong performances in recent editions.

What Happens Next

Edo Queens now prepare for the CAF Women’s Champions League finals.

Their focus will shift to squad depth, fitness, and tactical discipline.

The challenge ahead is significantly tougher, with North and North African champions expected in the mix.

But confidence is high inside the camp after this dominant run.

Edo Queens’ WAFU B triumph is both a regional victory and a continental warning.

They have shown structure, discipline, and ambition.

The next stage will test whether they can translate West African dominance into African success.

Nigeria’s Edo Queens maintain perfect run to set up Inter D’Abidjan clash

Key Takeaways

• Edo Queens topped Group B with 9 points and no goals conceded
• They scored 10 goals across the group stage
• Semi-final opponent: Inter D’Abidjan on Tuesday
• Inter qualified after a 4–3 comeback win over AS Kozah
• Hasaacas Ladies exited despite a 6–1 victory

Momentum continues to build behind Nigeria’s Edo Queens FC, who have stormed into the semi-finals of the CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU-B qualifiers in Abidjan without conceding a single goal.

Their latest statement came on Saturday evening in Côte d’Ivoire, where they edged Burkina Faso’s Omnisports Etincelle 1–0 to finish top of Group B with nine points from three matches.

The result confirms a high-stakes semi-final meeting with host side Inter D’Abidjan on Tuesday.

Dominance without compromise

Edo Queens have been one of the standout sides of the tournament so far. They completed the group stage with a perfect defensive record and an impressive attacking return.

Across three matches, they scored 10 goals and conceded none. That balance has underlined their status as one of the strongest contenders for qualification to the continental tournament proper.

Their campaign opened with a 5–0 win over AS Garde National of Niger. That was followed by a controlled 3–0 victory over Ghana’s Hasaacas Ladies.

Each performance has reinforced their discipline, structure, and physical edge.

Etincelle edged in tight contest

The decisive clash with Omnisports Etincelle was more restrained. Edo Queens did enough to secure victory, but the game remained competitive throughout.

Etincelle, however, could not break through a disciplined Nigerian backline. The defeat ended their hopes of topping the group.

Hasaacas miss out despite heavy win

Elsewhere in the group, Ghana’s Hasaacas Ladies delivered the biggest win of the round, beating AS Garde National 6–1.

Fatoumata Tamboura opened the scoring after 20 minutes. Grace Animah and Comfort Owusu added further goals before the break.

AS Garde briefly responded, but Hasaacas regained control in the second half. Owusu added her second goal, while late strikes from Animah and Abigail Sakyiwaa completed the scoreline.

Despite the emphatic result, Hasaacas finished level on points with Etincelle. Goal difference ultimately worked against them, ending their qualification hopes.

Inter D’Abidjan stage dramatic comeback

In Group A, Inter D’Abidjan produced one of the tournament’s most remarkable turnarounds. They recovered from 3–0 down at half-time to defeat Togo’s AS Kozah 4–3.

AS Kozah had looked in full control after goals from Solim Kadanga, Tatiana Kayaba, and Kpandjapou Gbati.

But Inter returned with renewed intensity after the break. Esperance Cousso Agbo led the fightback with a hat-trick. Melissa Sandrine Behinan completed the comeback with a decisive fourth goal.

Despite the defeat, AS Kozah’s Ijeoma Anagha was named Player of the Match for her first-half influence.

Inter finished second in Group A behind Benin’s Ainonvi FC.

What the semi-final means

Tuesday’s clash between Edo Queens and Inter D’Abidjan now shapes as a defining moment in the qualifiers. The winner moves a step closer to the CAF Women’s Champions League proper later this year.

Edo Queens will enter as group leaders with defensive confidence. Inter arrive with attacking momentum and home support.

Edo Queens FC 3-0 Hasaacas Ladies: Second-half surge seals semi-final place

Key Takeaways

• Edo Queens dominated the second half after a 0–0 first period.
• Emem Essien scored twice, including a key opener.
• Captain Suliat Abideen sealed a 3–0 win.
• The result confirms semi-final qualification early.
• Focus now shifts to the final group match.

Momentum shifted sharply after the break as Edo Queens FC overpowered Ghana’s Hasaacas Ladies with a decisive 3–0 win in the CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU B Qualifiers in Côte d’Ivoire.

The match remained tightly balanced in the first half. Neither side found a breakthrough. But Edo Queens returned with greater urgency and control.

Essien sparks the turnaround

The deadlock broke in the 57th minute. Emem Essien struck first after a well-delivered assist from Folashade Ijamilusi. The finish lifted the Nigerian side’s intensity.

Essien was again central to the action ten minutes later. She combined with Chioma Moses Esther to double the lead in the 67th minute. The coordination unsettled the Ghanaian defence.

Captain Abideen seals authority

Skipper Suliat Abideen added the final touch. Her powerful strike completed a dominant second-half display. The goal confirmed a 3–0 result and sealed Edo Queens’ passage to the semi-finals.

According to match reports from the tournament organisers, the win guarantees progression even with one Group B fixture still to play.

WAFU B qualifiers context

The WAFU B qualifiers serve as a gateway to continental glory. Teams compete for limited spots in the CAF Women’s Champions League. Every result carries significant weight.

Edo Queens have now strengthened their status as one of the tournament’s most consistent sides. Their defensive shape and quick transitions stood out throughout the match.

What next for Edo Queens FC

Attention now turns to the final group-stage match. Edo Queens will aim to maintain rhythm and finish top of their group. Confidence remains high within the squad.

A deeper run in the competition is now firmly within reach. Consistency will be key in the knockout rounds ahead.

Nigerian champions Edo Queens set for regional test

Fresh from securing their maiden Nigeria Women Football League title, Edo Queens will head to Côte d’Ivoire in August with hopes of reaching the continent’s biggest women’s club competition.

Tournament organisers confirmed on Wednesday that the 2024 WAFU-B Women’s Champions League qualifiers will take place in Abidjan from 10 to 23 August. The competition will determine which club earns the region’s lone ticket to the CAF Women’s Champions League finals.

The tournament brings together league champions from seven West African countries — Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Niger Republic, Nigeria and Togo.

Edo Queens eye historic CAF Women’s Champions League place

For Edo Queens, the trip represents another major milestone in a season already filled with breakthroughs.

The Benin City side sealed their first-ever NWFL Premiership crown in Yenagoa after finishing top of the Super Six standings in dramatic fashion last month. Their triumph earned them the right to represent Nigeria at the regional qualifiers.

The CAF Women’s Champions League, launched in 2021 by Confederation of African Football, has quickly become the premier club competition in women’s football across Africa. Nigerian clubs have consistently been among the strongest contenders in the WAFU-B qualifying series.

Nigeria-Ghana rivalry dominates WAFU-B qualifiers

The regional competition has largely been shaped by a fierce football rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana.

Each of the last three finals has featured clubs from both countries. Ghanaian teams, however, have edged the rivalry with two title victories.

In the inaugural 2021 edition, Nigeria’s Rivers Angels reached the final but were defeated by Ghana’s Hasaacas Ladies.

A year later, Bayelsa Queens restored Nigerian pride with a commanding 3-0 victory over Ampem Darkoa in Côte d’Ivoire.

But Ghana regained the upper hand in 2023 when Ampem Darkoa narrowly defeated Nigeria’s Delta Queens 1-0 in Benin City.

Côte d’Ivoire returns as host nation

Côte d’Ivoire has become a familiar venue for the competition. The country previously hosted the 2021 and 2022 editions before Nigeria staged the tournament in 2023.

Officials believe Abidjan’s growing reputation for organising regional football events influenced the decision to return the qualifiers to the Ivorian capital this year.

The tournament is expected to attract scouts, football administrators and supporters from across West Africa as women’s football continues to gain momentum in the region.

What Edo Queens must overcome

Edo Queens will face strong opposition, particularly from Ghanaian representatives who have dominated recent editions.

The Nigerian side must also manage the pressure that comes with representing the country after a memorable domestic campaign.

Football analysts say squad depth, tactical discipline and experience in high-pressure matches could determine who secures the only available CAF Women’s Champions League slot.

Conclusion

Edo Queens now stand on the brink of another defining moment in their rise within African women’s football.

After conquering the domestic league, the challenge shifts to the regional stage in Abidjan, where only one club will progress to the CAF Women’s Champions League finals. For Nigeria, the tournament also offers a chance to reclaim dominance from Ghana after recent disappointments.