Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Governor of Edo State, has confidently asserted that the opposition parties in the state will face a complete collapse ahead of the 2027 general elections. He made this declaration during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the Edo Central Senatorial District by-election scheduled for August 16, 2025.
Okpebholo urged candidates from opposition parties to defect to the APC and join his administration in developing the state. He expressed optimism that the APC’s developmental achievements would attract members from other parties, leading to a mass defection.
“This is a test for 2027. I can tell you that 2027 is sure. Before 2027, there will be no opposition in Edo State anymore as all will join the APC because of the developmental achievements in the State,” Okpebholo stated.
The governor also guaranteed 2.5 million votes for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, emphasizing that the senatorial election would serve as a major test. He advised opposition candidates not to waste their resources, suggesting they take any money offered and vote for the APC.
Several members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including Alhaji Esiwele Musa, Abraham Osazuwa, Sunny Ejie, and Robert Okoneme, defected to the APC during the event.
Jarrett Tenebe, the chairman of the APC, welcomed the new members and assured them of equal opportunities within the party. He also urged all Edo citizens to support Governor Okpebholo’s administration in implementing people-centered programs.
Dennis Idahosa, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, called on the people of Esan to support Governor Okpebholo, highlighting the development brought to the state through his relationship with President Tinubu. He emphasized that the election is an opportunity to show appreciation to the President.
The APC candidate for the Senatorial by-election, Hon. Joseph Ikpea, promised to continue the developmental strides initiated by the Governor in the Senatorial District if elected.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the by-election for the Edo Central Senatorial District for August 16, 2025. The seat became vacant, and the election is expected to restore full legislative representation to the area.
