Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has officially declared the commencement of his campaign efforts in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid for the 2027 general elections.
Governor Okpebholo made the announcement during a public event, stating that his political activities and mobilization efforts are now directed toward ensuring President Tinubu secures a second term in office. His declaration marks one of the earliest endorsements and campaign initiatives for the president’s re-election, coming more than two years ahead of the next presidential poll.
While addressing supporters, Okpebholo emphasized his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and praised President Tinubu’s leadership since taking office in 2023. He noted that despite challenges, the administration has made significant strides in economic reforms, infrastructure development, and national security.
The governor’s early endorsement is expected to resonate within the APC and could influence political dynamics in Edo State and the South-South region, where the party has been working to strengthen its support base. Okpebholo’s move is also being seen as an effort to align himself closely with the presidency, potentially consolidating his influence within the party at the national level.
Political observers have pointed out that such early campaign declarations are unusual but not unprecedented. Okpebholo’s announcement may prompt similar expressions of support from other APC governors and leaders as the political landscape begins to take shape ahead of the 2027 elections.
There has been no official response yet from the presidency or the APC national leadership regarding Okpebholo’s declaration. However, party insiders suggest that the move could be welcomed as part of efforts to build early momentum and mobilize grassroots support for the president’s second-term agenda.
President Bola Tinubu was elected in 2023 under the platform of the APC, defeating major challengers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party. His administration has faced both commendation and criticism for its policy directions, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates, which have sparked national debates on their economic impact.
With Governor Okpebholo’s announcement, political attention may increasingly turn toward 2027, even as the current administration continues to navigate governance challenges and implement its development agenda.
