Okpebholo warns sponsors of insecurity, defends Tinubu’s leadership

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday, urged those he described as sponsors of insecurity in the country to desist and allow President Bola Tinubu to focus on governance.

He made the appeal during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress campaign for the Edo South Senatorial District local government elections at Urhokpota Hall in Benin City.

Okpebholo said incidents of kidnapping, banditry and terrorism had increased in recent times, alleging that they were being orchestrated to undermine Tinubu’s leadership.

He said promoting insecurity would not guarantee political positions, stressing that there was no vacancy in Aso Rock.

“There is no vacancy in Aso Rock. They can even kidnap all of us, yes, there is no vacancy in Aso Rock. What is happening today is in the hands of the opposition.

“They have failed. Have they not failed? Is it by kidnapping children? Then who are you going to govern? There will be nobody for you to govern. So let them give us peace so that the President and other elected officials can govern effectively,” Okpebholo said.

He said the President had performed more than previous leaders, adding that the impact of fuel subsidy removal was being reflected in ongoing projects across the country and in Edo State.

Okpebholo also commended APC candidates for the forthcoming council elections, saying their victories would signal strong support for the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, where the party is targeting 2.5 million votes for President Tinubu in the state.

The Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, praised Okpebholo’s commitment to youth inclusion and leadership development, noting that the administration had created opportunities for young people to occupy key positions in government.

The APC State Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, described the party as the only viable political platform in Edo State.

He urged council election candidates to take the message of the governor’s developmental strides to grassroots communities and ensure effective performance if elected.