BENIN CITY – A group of former political appointees who served under the administration of former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has declared support for Governor Monday Okpebholo, citing his developmental achievements and commitment to improving the lives of Edo residents.
The endorsement was made during a visit to Government House in Benin City by members of the Edo Women Ambassadors for Renewed Hope Agenda (EWARHA), who also pledged their support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.
The delegation comprised several prominent former government officials, 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, among others.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Hon. Mrs. Philomena Ihenyen said EWARHA, which has more than 78 members drawn from different professional backgrounds, was motivated by Governor Okpebholo’s visible impact across the state.
She explained that many members of the organisation are non-partisan professionals who became attracted to the APC due to what they described as the governor’s results-oriented approach to governance and infrastructure development.
According to Ihenyen, the group plans to establish structures across Edo State’s three senatorial districts and will actively mobilise grassroots support for the APC and President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
She commended the governor for prioritising projects that directly impact communities, noting that ongoing development efforts have strengthened public confidence in the administration.
“Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to infrastructure development and people-centred governance has inspired many of us to identify with his administration and support its vision for Edo State,” she said.
Responding, Governor Okpebholo expressed appreciation to the women for their endorsement and confidence in his leadership, assuring them that his administration would continue to deliver projects that improve the quality of life of Edo people.
The governor highlighted ongoing road construction and rehabilitation projects across the state, particularly in areas that had previously suffered years of neglect, describing the interventions as critical to economic growth and connectivity.
Okpebholo also praised the economic reforms introduced by President Tinubu, especially the removal of fuel subsidy, which he said had enhanced the financial capacity of states to undertake development projects.
While acknowledging the temporary challenges associated with the reforms, the governor maintained that they were necessary measures aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s economy for sustainable growth and long-term prosperity.
He further commended the members of EWARHA for their support and pledged continued collaboration with women groups, community leaders and other stakeholders to accelerate development across Edo State.
The endorsement is seen as a significant political boost for Governor Okpebholo, coming from individuals who previously served under the administration of his predecessor and reflecting growing support for his governance agenda.
