Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has kicked off mobilization efforts for the 2027 reelection campaign of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking in Benin City, the governor made the announcement during a reception for Hon. Kaycee Osamwonyi, a member of the Edo State House of Assembly who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Osamwonyi, who represents the Uhunmwonde constituency and sits on the House Committee on Budget and Appropriation, was first received by APC State Chairman Jarrett Tenebe before being formally presented to Governor Okpebholo.
The governor commended Osamwonyi and four other new members for their decision to join the APC, describing it as a significant boost for the party. “Your defection has made our party stronger,” he said. “Many others are ready to join — very soon, it will be a carnival of defections.”
Reaffirming his administration’s development agenda, Okpebholo said, “Let’s work together to transform Edo and improve lives, especially in Uhunmwonde, a local government dear to my heart.”
On the 2027 elections, he declared, “We have already begun campaigning for President Tinubu’s reelection. Youth engagement is key — they are central to our mission.”
Presenting Osamwonyi, APC Chairman Tenebe stated that the party now holds a majority in the Edo State Assembly. “Osamwonyi’s return reflects the visible progress achieved under the current administration,” he said.
Explaining his defection, Osamwonyi cited deep-rooted internal crises within the PDP. “From the national level down to the wards, the party is riddled with divisions. I’ve returned to the APC, where I originally belong.”
He praised the development strides in Edo State, particularly in Uhunmwonde, saying, “The ongoing projects reflect a genuine commitment to my constituency. I’m here to ensure sustained progress for my people.”
