The Big Masquerade is Home’ as Chief Tony Aideloje Joins APC in Edo

A prominent community leader, Chief Tony Igbadia Aideloje, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ward 1, Ozalla, Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, in a move described by supporters as a major political boost ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The defection, which took place on Sunday, March 22, 2026, was marked by jubilation among party faithful, who warmly received the new entrants under the slogan, “The Big Masquerade is Home.”

Party executives at Ward 1, led by Chairman Elder Ogedegbe, alongside the LGA Vice Chairman, Hon. Oleh, and the Women Leader, Madam Florence Alfred, were on ground to formally welcome Chief Aideloje and other defectors into the party.

Presenting the party’s symbol, the broom, to the new members, the chairman urged them to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the APC in Owan West and the overall development of Ozalla Kingdom.

Also speaking at the event, Chief (Hon.) Dr. Inumidu Idehen, a party leader who represented the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, welcomed the new members and charged them to remain committed to the party’s success in future elections.

Dr. Idehen, a former Commissioner for Women Affairs in Edo State, described Chief Aideloje as an accomplished retired civil servant with vast experience, urging party members to remain united and focused ahead of upcoming electoral contests.

In his response, Chief Aideloje, a retired police officer, the Esama of Ozalla Kingdom, and President of Ozalla Patriots and Elites Worldwide, expressed appreciation to the party leadership for the warm reception.

He pledged his commitment to working collaboratively with party stakeholders to strengthen the APC’s presence in the area.

The event also attracted several notable figures, including Hon. Henry Ehizoje, Hon. Blessing Edionwemen, Chief Godwin Ominu Ajayi, Mr. Ugelugbo Osunde, Mr. Obanor, and Azekhumen Ehizoje, among others.

The atmosphere remained electrifying as party supporters chanted and celebrated, declaring repeatedly that “The Big Masquerade has arrived.”

Chief Aideloje used the occasion to declare his support for the re-election of Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, as well as Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, and Speaker Blessing Agbebaku, citing satisfaction with their developmental strides and leadership direction ahead of the 2027 elections scheduled