Dismissing Claims of APC’s Governance Dominance
Professor Oselhimen Osunbolu, former governor of Edo State and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) national legal adviser, expressed skepticism regarding assertions that the All Progressives Congress (APC) controls 31 governorship positions. He characterized these claims as politically inconsequential to the upcoming 2027 presidential election. This reaction comes in light of Governor Okpeboro’s recent pledge to deliver 3.5 million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election, which Osunbolu dismisses as a “hoax.”
Rising Alternative Support Base Among Nigerians
Speaking at the ADC conference in Ewohimi, located in the Esan South East Local Government Area, Osunbolu emphasized the party’s expanding support, which is bolstered by recent defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He believes this shift indicates a growing desire among Nigerians for a viable alternative as the 2027 general election approaches.
Self-Interest Over Public Welfare in Political Alignments
Osunbor challenged the APC’s claims of political strength through its governors, arguing that these alliances are primarily motivated by personal interests rather than the welfare of the populace. “These governors have not felt the struggles faced by ordinary Nigerians. Their motivations seem more aligned with maintaining their privileges,” he stated.
Potential Consequences of Misguided Political Moves
The former governor further warned that many defectors aligning with the APC may be misjudging the situation. He cautioned that the provisions of the electoral law might ultimately hinder their political aspirations. “Don’t be surprised if some of those currently celebrating within the APC fail to make it onto the final candidate list submitted to INEC. At that stage, it may be too late for them to seek alternative political platforms,” he asserted.
Questioning the Feasibility of Vote Predictions
Responding to Governor Okpeboro’s claim about securing 3.5 million votes for Tinubu in Edo State, Osunbolu deemed this prediction unrealistic and deceptive. “It’s essential to ask, what is the total number of registered voters in Edo State? Achieving 3.5 million votes would surely require electoral malpractice,” he remarked, underscoring that such figures do not align with electoral reality.
Calls for Accountability and Electoral Integrity
Osunbor urged caution regarding statements from political figures lacking a history of electoral credibility. “This is nothing but a fabrication. Those making these assertions have yet to validate their claims through past elections. The public should remain vigilant against these misleading promises,” he advised.
Political Sentiment Shifting Against APC
The ADC’s leader and former governorship aspirant, Ken Imansuagbon, echoed Osunbolu’s sentiments, asserting that political momentum is shifting away from both the APC-led federal government and the Edo State administration. He stressed that Nigerians are determined to reclaim their mandate in the 2027 elections. “It’s evident that the citizens of Edo State and Nigeria as a whole are ready to reject President Tinubu and Governor Okpeboro,” he declared, emphasizing that the voice of the people will ultimately prevail against any form of intimidation.
Voter Sentiment Trumps Political Calculations
Highlighting the ongoing defections to the ADC, Imansuagbon described this trend as a “tsunami,” indicative of rising discontent with the ruling party. He argued that, despite the APC’s control over numerous states, electoral success must resonate with the populace. “While 31 governors may possess 31 votes, the people’s sentiments are not aligned with them. The 2023 elections may have favored one individual, but in 2027, it will be the turn of the Nigerian people,” he concluded.
