As Edo State gears up for the September 21 governorship election, a significant political shift has occurred. On Saturday, five political parties formally endorsed the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo. The parties backing Okpebholo include the National Rescue Movement (NRM), the Alliance Peoples Movement (APM), the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and the Action Democratic Party (ADP).
The endorsement took place at the APC State Secretariat in Benin City, where Senator Okpebholo, along with his running mate Hon. Dennis Idahosa, the Acting State Chairman of the APC Emperor Jarret Tenebe, the party’s Secretary Lawrence Okah, and the Director General of the Edo APC Governorship Campaign Council Sen. Matthew Uroghide, welcomed the representatives from the five parties.
Sam Arase of the NRM spoke on behalf of the endorsing parties, highlighting the importance of the endorsement as Edo State marks 33 years of its existence. Arase emphasized the parties’ collective decision to support Okpebholo, citing his commitment to reforming the state’s educational system as a key factor in their decision.
“We have closely observed the APC’s campaign and recognize Okpebholo’s dedication to fixing the state’s ailing educational sector,” Arase stated. “Today, we are united in our support for the APC and its candidate. Our goal is the growth and development of Edo State. We believe Okpebholo’s track record and vision for the state make him the right choice for our people.”
The endorsement signals a strong coalition among these political parties, with a unified focus on revitalizing Edo State. The parties’ decision to back Okpebholo reflects a broader consensus on the need for effective leadership and sustainable development in the state.
As the election date approaches, the backing from these diverse political groups is expected to bolster the APC’s campaign and potentially influence voter sentiment across Edo State.
