At a major political rally in Esan Central, Governor Okpebholo celebrates mass defections from the PDP, promising Edo’s overwhelming support for Tinubu’s re-election under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has promised that the people of Edo will deliver 2.5 million votes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, in gratitude for what he termed the developmental strides made under the current administration.
Governor Okpebholo made this declaration at the Okaijesan Town Hall in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, during a political rally welcoming thousands of defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
At the gathering, the Governor described the APC as an inclusive platform for all progress-minded citizens, emphasizing that the growth of Edo requires a collective effort. “I want to commend those who have chosen to leave the PDP and join our great party, the APC. This defection demonstrates that the PDP has lost its footing in Esan Central, my own constituency,” Gov Okpebholo stated. “Today marks the political end of the PDP in this local government.”
He acknowledged that while previous efforts had been made to persuade these defectors to join the APC, they have now done so voluntarily, inspired by the visible progress achieved under his leadership. “Their decision is an endorsement of our leadership and the path we are taking as a government,” he added.
The Governor particularly welcomed the return of key political figures, including the former Edo State APC Chairman, Anselm Ojezua, calling his return a significant step toward solidifying the party in the state. He also expressed satisfaction in welcoming serving members of the Edo State House of Assembly, former local government chairmen, councillors, and other former PDP leaders who have joined the APC. “In 2027, we will show our gratitude for President Tinubu’s commitment to Edo by delivering 2.5 million votes. The people have spoken: Edo is APC, and the APC is the vehicle for our progress under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he declared.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his commitment to providing good governance, promising not to betray the trust placed in him. “I will not fail you. I will continue to work diligently to ensure sustained development across Edo State,” he said.
Major General Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd.), the APC leader in the Edo Central Senatorial District, also spoke, assuring the new members that the party operates fairly and welcomes all who are dedicated to the unity and growth of the state. “Join this movement of peace and purpose. Together, we will advance Edo,” he stated.
Prominent figures present at the event included Secretary to the State Government Musa Ikhilor, Chief of Staff Gani Audu, Acting Deputy State APC Chairman Sylvester Aigboboh, and several other party leaders.
