— Pledge Support for Tinubu, APC Ahead of 2027
Governor Monday Okpebholo has received a major political boost as former appointees who served under the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki have thrown their weight behind his government, citing his developmental strides across Edo State.
The endorsement came during a visit by members of the Edo Women Ambassadors for Renewed Hope Agenda (EWARHA) to the Government House in Benin City, where they pledged support for Governor Okpebholo’s administration, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
The group comprises several prominent former officials of the Obaseki administration, including former Special Adviser on Strategy, Policy, Projects and Performance Management, Mrs. Sera Esangbedo Ajose-Adeogun; former Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Oise Momoh Omorogbe; and Queen Obaseki, a member of the former governor’s family, among others.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Hon. Mrs. Philomena Ihenyen said the decision to support Governor Okpebholo was driven by what she described as visible achievements and impactful projects being executed across the state.
According to her, the over 78-member organisation consists of women from diverse professional backgrounds, many of whom are not members of any political party but have become attracted to the APC because of the governor’s performance.
“We are happy to meet with Your Excellency today. This group, EWARHA, will be inaugurated across the three senatorial districts of Edo State.
“These women are professionals from different fields and many are not card-carrying members of any political party. However, they have become interested in the APC because of the performance of Governor Okpebholo,” she said.
Ihenyen noted that the governor’s practical approach to governance and visible infrastructure projects convinced members of the group to identify with his administration.
“For your sake, we are ready to carry the message and work with you to achieve results, fulfil your promises to Edo people and deliver President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
“Many of us are impressed by your developmental strides and practical governance style. The projects are visible across Edo State,” she added.
She disclosed that the group had already commenced mobilisation efforts across communities and professional circles, while also reaching out to members of other political parties to support the APC ahead of future elections.
Responding, Governor Okpebholo expressed appreciation for the endorsement, assuring the women that his administration would remain focused on delivering more projects and improving the welfare of Edo people.
The governor highlighted ongoing road construction projects across the state, saying they were designed to improve connectivity and unlock economic opportunities in rural and urban communities.
“I am happy that today I can drive freely to access places like Temboga, Sapele, Gelegele, Church Road and other roads across the state. We are doing our best to ensure Edo roads are motorable, and work is ongoing in Gelegele and other areas,” he said.
Governor Okpebholo also praised the economic reforms of President Tinubu, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, which he said had increased resources available to states for development projects.
“The removal of fuel subsidy has brought positive changes to Nigeria. Reforms are difficult, but they are necessary for growth and development. Gradually, we will get there as a nation,” he stated.
