Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on Wednesday welcomed defectors from major political parties in the state, pledging to deliver 2.5 million votes for Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
The governor made the declaration while addressing supporters and party leaders at a rally of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held at Garrick Memorial Ground on Ekenwan Road in Benin City.
Members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Labour Party (LP) were among those who joined the APC during the event.
Okpebholo also declared that Edo State remains firmly under the control of the APC as preparations gradually build toward the 2027 general elections.
The governor attributed the increasing support for the ruling party to what he described as ongoing development projects across the state. According to him, the visible improvements in infrastructure and governance have encouraged many politicians and supporters from other parties to align with the APC.
He expressed strong confidence in the party’s chances ahead of the election cycle.
“2027 and 2.5 million votes are sure for Tinubu. The president should relax and come to Edo to commission projects, not to campaign, as the state is sure and settled for APC,” the governor stated.
Okpebholo further linked the state’s development progress to support from the federal government, noting that the achievements recorded by his administration were made possible through collaboration with the presidency.
He said, “I thank members of the APC for the unity we are enjoying in the party. We have a good father in President Tinubu and we all stand here today because we are proud of him and ready to deliver Edo for APC come 2027.”
“All we do in Edo State is practical governance and the people can see development. Every kobo spent in Edo State is from President Tinubu.”
During the rally, the governor also invited Rufai Oseni and Reuben Abati, anchors with Arise Television, to visit Edo State and inspect projects carried out by his administration.
“I invite Rufai and Abati to Edo State and I will take them on a project tour in the state. By the time I take them round for a few days inspecting projects, you will not only campaign but vote for President Tinubu in 2027,” he said.
The governor also noted that the APC currently controls 31 states across the country, describing the party as politically strong ahead of the next general election.
Reaffirming his administration’s loyalty to the ruling party and the presidency, Okpebholo said Edo State remains politically stable for the APC due to unity within the party and ongoing developmental efforts.
He also recalled that the Edo chapter of the APC has continued to receive new members since he assumed office, adding that he has repeatedly assured the party leadership of his commitment to delivering 2.5 million votes for President Tinubu in the 2027 election.
