LG Poll Triumph Bolsters Edo APC's 2027 Tinubu Vote Pledge

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State declared on Monday that its significant triumph in the recent local government elections serves as a clear indication of the party's strong position ahead of the 2027 general elections. Jarrett Tenebe, the Edo State APC Chairman, conveyed this message to journalists at the party secretariat while discussing the outcomes of the council polls.

Tenebe revealed that the APC garnered an impressive 2,158,600 votes, further asserting the party's readiness to secure 2.5 million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential contest. He commended the orderly conduct of the local government election, clarifying that the newly elected chairmen and councillors would assume office in September, aligning with the stipulated legal framework for local government elections and inaugurations, once the terms of the current officeholders conclude.

Furthermore, the chairman criticized certain opposition parties for questioning the electoral process. He emphasized that the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo has expanded democratic participation, noting that 11 opposition parties were involved in the election, a contrast to the approach of the previous government. Tenebe stated, “The APC secured 2,158,600 votes, an overwhelming mandate that is a clear expression of the confidence the people of Edo State have reposed in our great party, the leadership of Monday Okpebholo and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.” He added, “This resounding victory did not come by chance. It is the product of hard work, purposeful leadership, effective grassroots mobilisation, and the unwavering support of the good people of Edo State.”

Tenebe recollected that during the tenure of former Governor Godwin Obaseki, the APC, despite facing the challenges of being in opposition, including intimidation, harassment, and an uneven playing field, still participated in local government elections. He alleged that despite winning in several local government areas, the party was denied victory, with the administration hastily swearing in its preferred candidates, a move he described as contrary to democratic norms. He dismissed the justifications of political parties that opted to boycott the election, affirming, “The people of Edo State have consistently demonstrated their faith in the APC. In 2024, despite being in opposition, we defeated the PDP and the Obaseki administration in the governorship election.”

Extending an olive branch, Tenebe urged those who were unsuccessful in the elections to join hands for the state's progress, remarking, “Elections come and go, but the development of Edo State is a shared responsibility.” He concluded by saying, “The time for political contests is over; the time for unity, reconciliation, and collective progress has begun. We invite all well-meaning Edo people to join hands with Governor Monday Okpebholo as we continue to build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Edo State.”

Earlier, the successful candidates, comprising chairmen-elect and councillors-elect, were presented with their certificates of return at the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission office. Among those who received their certificates were Osagie Osamudiamen (Orhionmwon), Iyoha Saturday (Esan North-East), Azamegbe Endurance (Igueben), Imafidon Augustine (Uhunmwode), Tega Amiegbehor (Esan South-East), Osawaru Eru (Ikpoba-Okha), Ebhodaghe Blessing (Esan West), Enahoro Aikpokpo (Owan West), Vera Sadoh (Etsako Central), Akande Robert (Akoko-Edo), Omoike Aloaye (Etsako West), Iduseri Gabriel (Oredo), Osaro Eribo (Egor), Osarobo Anthony (Ovia South-West), Eriamiantoe Christopher (Ovia North-East), Sunny Ekpeson (Etsako East), and Abdullahi Momoh (Esan Central).