Edo governor promises Tinubu 100% votes in 2027, as first lady donates food to vulnerable

The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has assured President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of unwavering support ahead of the 2027 presidential elections, pledging that the state will deliver 100 per cent of its votes to the President.

Governor Okpebholo made this declaration during a food outreach event organised by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City. The outreach, spearheaded by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, aims to alleviate the plight of vulnerable Nigerians through its Social Investment Programme.

Commending the First Lady for her motherly compassion, Governor Okpebholo described the initiative as a demonstration of President Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring the dividends of democracy reach every Nigerian.

“We are happy in Edo State, and the people are beginning to see and enjoy a new dawn,” the Governor said. “Look at food items all over the place in this hall. All thanks to the President and his wife for this great initiative. We assure you, Mr President, of our 100 percent votes in 2027, and if possible, we will deliver more than 100 percent.”

The RHI food outreach, which began in March 2024, has already benefitted seven states, including Edo, with plans to extend to Kwara, Kogi, and Abia. Items distributed during the event included noodles, semovita, and pasta, among others.

Representing the First Lady at the event, Hajia Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President, highlighted the programme’s focus on empowering women and youths. She urged beneficiaries to use the items wisely, adding, “This programme aims to complement the renewed hope agenda of the Tinubu administration, covering areas such as education, health, economic empowerment, and agriculture.”

Mrs Edesili Anani Okpebholo, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady in Edo State, expressed gratitude to Senator Oluremi Tinubu for the impactful initiative. She also lauded Governor Okpebholo for his developmental strides and support for RHI’s programmes, which she said have transformed countless lives in the state.

The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Musa Ikhilor; Deputy Chief of Staff, Pius Alile; political and market women leaders; serving commissioners; heads of security agencies; and numerous widows.

The outreach underscores the Tinubu administration’s commitment to fostering social welfare and improving the lives of vulnerable Nigerians nationwide.