The All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of conceding defeat ahead of the August 16 by-elections in Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Constituency.

The ruling party described the opposition’s recent outcry against the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) as a panic move.

Naijaonpoint reports that APC’s assertions come as the Edo PDP, through its chairman, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, demanded the removal of Anugbum Onuaha, alleging bias in the electoral process.

Reacting in a statement issued on Wednesday, Edo APC Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, dismissed the PDP’s claims, insisting that the party was already preparing excuses for an inevitable defeat at the polls.

“Aziegbemi and his weary and tired political urchins fear the impending defeat that awaits them,” Tenebe stated.

He attributed the PDP’s anxiety to what he described as the “unprecedented achievements” of Governor Monday Okpebholo in just eight months in office.

“We have torn the umbrella into shreds. Edo people have made up their minds to vote massively for our party, the APC,” he declared.

Only APC Exists in Edo – Tenebe

Tenebe claimed that the APC was now the only party with real structure and presence in Edo State, pointing to defections from the PDP as evidence of the ruling party’s growing dominance.

“Governor Okpebholo’s performance has attracted many PDP members with good conscience to join us in our mission to develop the state,” the statement added.

He cited several state-led initiatives, including road rehabilitation, school upgrades, hospital projects, security reforms, and massive teacher recruitment, as reasons for the APC’s increasing popularity.

Tenebe said Edo people were prepared to reward good governance by voting for the APC candidates, Hon. Joe Ikpea and Hon. Omosede Igbinedion, in the upcoming by-elections for the Senate and House of Representatives seats.

“Come August 16, Edo people will troop out en masse to vote for our candidates,” he affirmed.

Naijaonpoint reports that the APC’s remarks come amid rising political tension in the state as the by-election date draws closer, with both parties intensifying their campaigns.