“No Vacancy in Aso Villa” as Edo Support Groups Back Tinubu, Ize-Iyamu for 2027

Strong political signals ahead of the 2027 general elections emerged in Benin City on Saturday as two major support groups — Amprance Alliance and Jagaban Apex Alliance — openly declared support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term ambition and the Edo South Senatorial aspiration of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.

The meeting, held at the private residence of Ize-Iyamu, attracted leaders and members of the groups from different parts of the country.

The gathering was led by Mr. Buchi Nwanbare and Dr. Ahmed Abdullahi, who described the event as part of a wider national mobilisation aimed at strengthening support for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda and preparing early for the 2027 elections.

During the meeting, the groups unanimously adopted the slogan, “No Vacancy in Aso Villa,” insisting that President Tinubu deserves another four years to consolidate ongoing reforms and economic policies.

They also endorsed Pastor Ize-Iyamu for the Edo South Senatorial seat with the campaign message: “Ize-Iyamu for Senate, Abuja Direct, 2027 Assured.”

Addressing the gathering, Ize-Iyamu praised President Tinubu for what he described as bold and courageous leadership despite criticisms from some quarters, saying the administration’s policies are gradually laying the foundation for national growth and stability.

He highlighted achievements in the health sector, particularly the free cancer treatment programme at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), which he said has already benefited more than 800 patients.

Ize-Iyamu also commended Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for acknowledging the support coming from the Federal Government.

According to him, increased federal allocations to states have enabled governors to execute projects such as roads, flyovers and other infrastructure aimed at improving the lives of citizens.

Leaders of the support groups said their movement now operates across the 36 states of the federation and remains committed to promoting the Renewed Hope agenda nationwide.

They also announced plans for an extraordinary meeting in Abuja with President Tinubu, where Pastor Ize-Iyamu is expected to be officially invited and honoured for his role in promoting political peace and unity in Edo State.

Accepting his appointment as National Patron of the alliance and the planned award, Ize-Iyamu thanked members of the groups for their continued mobilisation and support for the President.

He pledged to work closely with them in advancing development in Edo State, expressing optimism that the state could become one of the fastest-growing states in Nigeria.

The endorsement comes as political activities within the All Progressives Congress (APC) intensify ahead of the Edo South Senatorial primary election scheduled for May 18, 2026.

Ize-Iyamu, who has already obtained the APC nomination forms, is expected to contest against Senator Neda Imasuen and Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama for the party’s ticket.

Political observers believe the early endorsements and grassroots mobilisation by support groups may influence delegates and shape the direction of the contest as the APC prepares to conduct direct primaries.