Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has accused opposition parties of exploiting insecurity as a political tool to discredit the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting that such tactics will not alter the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Tuesday during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the forthcoming local government elections in Edo South Senatorial District, the governor maintained that the opposition’s efforts would not secure them victories in future elections, including the presidential race.
Declaring unwavering support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid, Okpebholo stressed that the presidency remains out of reach for opposition forces.
“There is no vacancy in Aso Rock. They can even kidnap all of us — yes, there is no vacancy in Aso Rock,” he said.
The governor blamed recent security challenges on political opponents, arguing that their actions were driven by desperation after failing to gain public support.
“What is happening today is the handiwork of the opposition.
“They have failed. Have they not failed? Is it by kidnapping children? Then who are you going to govern?
“There will be nobody for you to govern. So let them give us peace so that we can rule well.”
Okpebholo further asserted that President Tinubu’s administration has achieved more than previous governments, pointing to visible developmental projects across Edo State as evidence of the benefits arising from the removal of fuel subsidy.
The governor also congratulated candidates who emerged victorious in the APC primary elections ahead of the July 11 local government polls, expressing confidence that their success would strengthen the party’s grassroots support and help deliver the 2.5 million votes the state has pledged to Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
Also speaking at the event, APC Edo State Chairman Jarrett Tenebe described the ruling party as the most viable political platform in the state.
He urged candidates to take the message of the governor’s developmental achievements to every corner of Edo and replicate similar progress in their respective local government areas.
The event featured the official presentation of APC candidates for Edo South by Governor Okpebholo.
Among those unveiled were Ogbeide Ihama for the Senate, Paddy Iyamu for the Oredo Federal Constituency, and Omorede Igbinedion for the Ovia Federal Constituency.
The Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) has scheduled the local government elections across the state’s 18 local government areas for July 11, 2026.
