Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, says opposition parties in the state will be history before the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during the APC flag-off for the August 16 Senatorial by-election in Uromi, Okpebholo invited opposition candidates to defect and join him in “developing Edo.”

Flanked by APC State Chairman Jarrett Tenebe, the Governor welcomed several high-profile PDP defectors, including Alhaji Esiwele Musa and Abraham Osazuwa, claiming the state is consolidating behind the ruling party.

“This is a test for 2027,” Okpebholo declared. “We will sweep all five LGAs in this senatorial race. The opposition is finished. If they give you money, take it—but vote APC. That money is our money.”

He promised President Bola Tinubu 2.5 million votes in 2027 from Edo alone, calling this by-election the first step toward that goal.

Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa echoed the rallying call, stating: “The President sees our Governor as his son. This is our chance to show appreciation.”

Tenebe presented the APC flag to Hon. Joseph Ikpea, the party’s candidate, urging him to “continue the development legacy” Okpebholo started in the Senate.

Former Speaker Victor Edoror, Gen. Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd), Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, and other APC heavyweights urged voters to maintain a door-to-door campaign approach to secure total victory.