Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has pledged that the people of Edo will deliver 2.5 million votes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election as a token of appreciation for the developmental strides witnessed across the State under his administration.
Governor Okpebholo made the declaration at Okaijesan Town Hall in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, during a political gathering to welcome thousands of decampees from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to the Governor, the APC in Edo remains an open and inclusive platform for all citizens committed to progress. He stated that the State’s development requires collective input, and the party welcomes all new members eager to contribute to the advancement of Edo.
“I want to commend the members of the PDP who have made the decision to join our great party, the APC,” he said. “This defection is a testament to the fact that the PDP has lost relevance in Esan Central, my own constituency. Today marks the political end of the PDP in this local government.”
He noted that while efforts had previously been made to persuade many of the decampees to join the APC, they have now come voluntarily, moved by the visible impact of his administration’s developmental agenda. “Their decision to align with our party is a clear endorsement of our direction and leadership,” he added.
Governor Okpebholo expressed gratitude to key political figures who have returned to the APC fold, including former Edo State APC Chairman, Anselm Ojezua, describing his return as a boost to the party’s consolidation in the State.
He also welcomed members of the Edo State House of Assembly, former local government chairmen, councillors, and former PDP leaders who have now pitched their tents with the APC.
“In 2027, we will reward President Tinubu’s love for Edo with 2.5 million votes. The people have spoken through their actions. Edo is APC, and APC is the vehicle of our development under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he declared.
The Governor assured the people of his continued commitment to service, promising not to betray the trust reposed in him. “I will not fail you. I will continue to work diligently to ensure that Edo enjoys sustained development under my watch,” he concluded.
Also speaking at the event, leader of the APC in Edo Central Senatorial District, Major General Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd.), assured the new members that the party does not discriminate, but instead offers a level playing field for all committed to the growth and unity of Edo State. “Join this movement of peace and purpose. Together, we will move Edo forward,” he said.
Dignitaries at the event included Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor; Chief of Staff, Gani Audu; Acting Deputy State Chairman of APC, Sylvester Aigboboh; among others.
