Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has expressed strong optimism that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will secure decisive victories in the forthcoming by-elections across the state.
The governor made this known on Sunday while receiving a group of defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at Okada, the administrative headquarters of Ovia North-East Local Government Area. The development was disclosed in a statement issued Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua.
Reaffirming his administration’s dedication to the people of Edo State, Okpebholo emphasized his deep-rooted ties to the land, stating that his commitment to development stems from his identity as a true son of the soil.
“This administration is committed to serving Edo because we are indigenous to this land. We weren’t brought from elsewhere. My mother is an Esan woman. My father is an Esan man. I grew up here, and so did my deputy,” he said. “As genuine sons of the soil, it is our duty to work for our people.”
The governor added that his administration prioritizes ongoing development beyond electoral cycles, saying, “We don’t wait for election season to begin projects that’s not how we believe development should happen.”
Okpebholo also reiterated his earlier promise to deliver 2.5 million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that recent political developments were giving him renewed confidence in fulfilling that target.
On the upcoming Ovia Federal Constituency by-election slated for August 16, the governor announced his readiness to return to the area to campaign, noting, “Our candidate is the right choice for the people.”
He introduced the party’s House of Representatives candidate, Omosede Igbinedion, as “Madam Projects,” and described his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, as “Mr. Projects”, a nod to their focus on infrastructure and development.
The event also saw the formal defection of several notable PDP figures into the APC, including Hon. Andrew Uzamere, the current member representing Ovia North-East Constituency II in the Edo State House of Assembly; former council chairman Peter Ekhator; Hon. Uwaifo; and Christopher Igodalo, along with their supporters.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Uzamere and Ekhator expressed delight at joining the APC and pledged their loyalty and support to the party’s growth and success in the state.
Other party leaders, including Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa and State APC Chairman Jarrett Tenebe, hailed Governor Okpebholo’s performance, which they said was a key factor behind the growing support for the party.
The event was attended by top APC stakeholders such as the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; other state lawmakers; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Ganiyu Audu; Senator Mathew Urhoghide; and former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Chief Lucky Imasuen.
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