“Kidnapping Won’t Win Elections” — Okpebholo Demands Release of Abducted Victims, Backs Tinubu

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called on kidnappers across the country to immediately and unconditionally release all abducted victims, insisting that political power cannot be attained through criminality, violence, or intimidation.

The governor made the declaration on Tuesday while flagging off the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the Edo South Senatorial District local government elections at Urhokpota Hall in Benin City.

Condemning the recent surge in kidnappings and insecurity in parts of the country, including the abduction of students, teachers, and other citizens, Okpebholo warned that criminal activities should not be used to distract governments from delivering on their mandates.

“Those seeking political power should not distract President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from delivering good governance to Nigerians. Kidnapping innocent citizens will not win elections. Political power cannot be secured through criminal activities,” the governor said.

He stressed that political ambitions must never be pursued through violence, fear, or banditry, adding that insecurity should not be allowed to derail national development efforts.

Okpebholo also praised President Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, which he said had boosted resources available to states for infrastructure and development projects.

Reaffirming his support for the President ahead of the 2027 general elections, the governor declared that Edo State would remain firmly behind the Tinubu administration.

“There is no vacancy in Aso Rock. Edo State will stand firmly behind President Tinubu and his Renewed Hope Agenda,” he stated.

On the forthcoming local government elections, Okpebholo unveiled what he described as a new political direction for Edo State, emphasizing the APC’s commitment to youth participation in governance.

According to him, the party has deliberately fielded youthful and energetic candidates capable of providing leadership at the grassroots level.

“We are changing the face of politics in Edo State by giving young and capable people the opportunity to lead at the grassroots level. The future belongs to our youths, and we are creating pathways for them to contribute meaningfully to governance,” he said.

Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, commended the governor’s focus on youth inclusion, noting that the administration had opened doors for young people to occupy strategic positions in government.

The event also witnessed the official unveiling of APC candidates for the Edo South Senatorial District local government elections. Among those presented were Engr. Ogbeide Ihama, Senatorial candidate; Dr. Paddy Iyamu for Oredo Federal Constituency; and Barrister Omorede Igbinedion for Ovia Federal Constituency, among others.

The APC campaign flag-off drew party leaders, supporters, and stakeholders from across the senatorial district as preparations intensify for the forthcoming polls.