Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has officially kickstarted the campaign for President Bola Tinubu's re-election in 2027. This move marks an early start to what promises to be a highly competitive presidential race. Okpebholo made the announcement during a ceremony at the Government House in Benin, where he also welcomed a new member into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The event saw the defection of Kaycee Osamwonyi, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmaker representing the Uhunmwonde Constituency, to the APC. Osamwonyi's decision to join the APC was attributed to the disunity within the PDP and the developmental strides achieved by Governor Okpebholo's administration in Edo State. With Osamwonyi's defection, the APC now holds a majority in the Edo State House of Assembly, with 14 members compared to the PDP's 10.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized the importance of mobilizing youths in Edo State to support President Tinubu's re-election bid. He assured new APC members that they would be part of a conducive environment for collaboration and development.
The governor highlighted his administration's efforts to transform Edo's economy and improve residents' lives, which he believes will continue to attract more supporters to the APC.
The PDP in Edo State, however, remains critical of Okpebholo's administration, citing concerns over insecurity across the state. The party's chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, expressed hope that the Court of Appeal would overturn the Election Petitions Tribunal's decision regarding the 2024 governorship election, potentially paving the way for a new leadership in the state.
As the campaign for Tinubu's re-election gains momentum, it reflects the ongoing political dynamics in Nigeria, where alliances and defections play a significant role in shaping electoral outcomes. The early start to the campaign also underscores the strategic importance of Edo State in national politics, as well as the APC's efforts to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 elections.