Okpebholo Breaks Silence: ‘I Didn’t Want To Contest, But APC Leaders Convinced Me

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has revealed that his political journey with the All Progressives Congress (APC) began in 2022 after he was persuaded by several individuals to run for the Senate.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

According to Okpebholo, before that period, most politicians in Edo preferred to contest elections under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). However, with the APC now firmly in control at the national level, he predicted a wave of defections from opposition parties in the South-South region ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

“APC is here to stay, especially as it remains the ruling party at the center,” Okpebholo asserted.

Naija News reports that the governor made these remarks during a special homecoming reception held in Ewatto, Esan South East Local Government Area, to celebrate his recent victory at the election petition tribunal.

Expressing gratitude, he said:

“I want to use this opportunity to thank our royal fathers for their unwavering support and prayers. I also appreciate the people of Edo State for deeming me worthy of their votes during the September 21 governorship election.

Running and winning two major elections within a year is no small feat. I give all the glory to God. Politics wasn’t originally part of my plan—what truly drives me is the desire to develop Edo State.”

Recalling the start of his political ambition, he explained:

“In 2021, we searched for an Esan man willing to run for Senate under the APC but couldn’t find anyone—everyone preferred the PDP. Then, in 2022, I was approached and encouraged to contest, and that conversation changed everything for me.”

He also spoke emotionally about a personal tragedy that shaped his priorities:

“I lost a dear sister due to the consumption of contaminated water. That incident fueled my determination to ensure access to clean water across the state. Development for me isn’t just about roads and schools—it includes safe drinking water, quality healthcare, and better living conditions for our people.”

Governor Okpebholo, accompanied by his team, paid a courtesy visit to the Onojie of Ewatto, His Royal Highness Osagie Sylvanus Ikhumen I, and received blessings from several other traditional rulers in Edo Central.

He also toured the Chief Lee Ikpea Medical Center in Idumuiyase, Ewatto—a facility still under construction by philanthropist Dr. Lemon Ikpea—where he was briefed on the progress of the project.