Governor Monday Okpebholo has set up a door-to-door campaign squad to boost the chances of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Joe Ikpea, ahead of the 16 August senatorial by-election in Edo Central.
Speaking on Friday in Uromi, the governor urged the team to mobilise support across the district, especially among young voters.
“This is the time to go from house to house for APC,” he said. “We’re not just contesting this election to win. We’re laying the groundwork to deliver 2.5 million votes to President Tinubu in 2027.”
Okpebholo dismissed the credibility of candidates from other parties, warning supporters not to be swayed by past failures.
“Youths must not fall for recycled promises,” he said. “This is your first big test. Show that you can deliver results and prove your relevance.”
He also said that his administration had brought real progress to the state since taking office.
“Where there is light, darkness cannot stay,” the governor said. “Before now, we saw years of decay. No schools. No electricity. No roads. Nothing. But look around today. The story has changed.”
The campaign is targeting all five local government areas in Edo Central, with the governor declaring confidence in sweeping the zone.
“APC will take five out of five,” he said. “We’re not leaving anything to chance.”
Also speaking at the event, retired General Cecil Esekhaigbe, the party’s leader in the district, urged youths to take the campaign seriously and ensure victory for Ikpea.
“This is not just a campaign. It’s a mission,” he said.
