Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has declared that Edo people will deliver 2.5 million votes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election as a demonstration of gratitude for the state’s ongoing development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Governor Okpebholo made the declaration at Okaijesan Town Hall in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, during a well-attended political rally to receive thousands of decampees from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Describing the APC as an open, people-focused, and progressive political family, the Governor emphasized that the growth and prosperity of Edo State requires the collective effort of all well-meaning citizens, irrespective of previous party affiliations.
“I want to sincerely commend our brothers and sisters from the PDP who have made the wise decision to join the APC. This mass defection is proof that the PDP has lost its political footing in Esan Central, my constituency. Today marks the political end of PDP’s influence in this local government,” Okpebholo declared.
He noted that while overtures had been made to woo some of the decampees in the past, they have now voluntarily pitched their tents with the APC, inspired by the visible developmental strides and people-oriented governance delivered by his administration.
“Their decision today is a clear vote of confidence in our leadership direction and an endorsement of our shared vision for Edo,” he added.
Governor Okpebholo also expressed appreciation for the return of several prominent political figures, including former Edo State APC Chairman, Anselm Ojezua, describing his homecoming as a morale booster for the APC ahead of future elections.
He further welcomed members of the Edo State House of Assembly, former local government chairmen, councillors, and ex-PDP leaders who officially defected to the APC.
“In 2027, Edo will reward President Tinubu’s love for our state with nothing less than 2.5 million votes. The people have spoken with their actions. Edo is APC and APC is the development vehicle that will drive the future of our state under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the Governor declared.
Okpebholo also reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to good governance and promised never to betray the trust reposed in him by the people of Edo State.
“I will not fail you. My resolve is to continue working diligently to ensure Edo State enjoys sustained, inclusive, and people-driven development under my watch,” he affirmed.
Also speaking at the event, APC leader in Edo Central Senatorial District, Major General Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd.), assured the new members of equal opportunities within the party, stressing that the APC remains a platform for peace, unity, and meaningful progress.
“Join this movement of peace and purpose. Together, we’ll move Edo forward,” Esekhaigbe said.
Dignitaries at the colourful event included the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor; Chief of Staff, Gani Audu; Acting Deputy State APC Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh; and other party leaders.
