… Receives PDP defectors to APC

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has assured that the people of Edo will deliver 2.5 million votes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election, citing visible development and strong support for the APC-led government in the state.

The Governor made this known during a political gathering at Okaijesan Town Hall in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, where thousands of former members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He hailed the mass defection as a clear sign of the PDP’s diminishing relevance in the region, particularly in his own constituency, noting that the decision of the new members to join the APC voluntarily reflected the impact of his administration’s developmental strides.

“Today marks the political end of the PDP in Esan Central,” Okpebholo said. “These defections are not forced. They are a recognition of the direction in which Edo is heading under APC leadership.”

The Governor welcomed notable political figures, including former APC State Chairman Anselm Ojezua, describing his return as pivotal to the party’s strength and unification efforts across the state. 

He also acknowledged the defection of serving lawmakers, former local government executives, councillors, and PDP chieftains who have now aligned with the APC.

Promising continued service to the people, Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his commitment to building a progressive and inclusive Edo under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “In 2027, we will repay the President’s love for Edo with 2.5 million votes. Our people have chosen progress,” he declared.

The event also featured remarks by Major General Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd.), APC leader in Edo Central Senatorial District, who assured the new members of fairness and inclusion within the party. “APC welcomes all who are ready to work for peace and progress,” he said.

Present at the event were the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor; Chief of Staff, Gani Audu; and the Acting Deputy State APC Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh, among other party leaders.