Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo has pledged 2.5 million Edo votes for President Bola Tinubu in 2027 following the president’s developmental impact across the state.

This is contained in a statement by Fred Itua, chief press secretary to Mr Okpebholo, in Benin on Monday.

Mr Itua said Mr Okpebholo made the declaration at Okaijesan Town Hall, during a gathering to welcome defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.

The governor emphasised that the APC remained all inclusive and welcomed all Edo citizens ready to contribute meaningfully to the continued growth and development of the state.

“I commend PDP members who have joined the APC. This proves that PDP has lost relevance in Esan Central, my constituency,” he said.

He added that while efforts had been made to convince them earlier, they joined voluntarily due to the administration’s tangible developmental achievements.

Their decision, he said, endorsed the government’s vision and confirmed growing confidence in the leadership and policies of the APC administration.

Mr Okpebholo applauded the return of influential figures, including former APC chairman Anselm Ojezua, calling it a boost to the party’s strength in Edo State.

He welcomed other returnees, members of the state House of Assembly, former chairmen, councillors, and former PDP leaders now backing the APC.

“In 2027, Edo will give Tinubu 2.5 million votes. Edo is APC, and APC is the engine of our progress,” he added.

Also speaking, APC leader in Edo Central, Major General Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd.), reassured defectors of inclusion and fairness within the party’s structure.

“Join this movement of peace and purpose. Together, we will move Edo forward,” he stated.

(NAN)