The Digest:
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has made a bold pledge to resign from office if President Bola Tinubu fails to win the 2027 general elections. Speaking during an interview on African Independent Television (AIT), the governor expressed unwavering confidence in Tinubu's victory in Edo State, citing ongoing development projects as the reason voters will appreciate the president through the ballot. Okpebholo declared, "Bet me, if he doesn't win, I will resign as governor." He emphasized that his political approach focuses on grassroots mobilization rather than thuggery, having learned from veteran politician Chief Aneni. The governor dismissed any uncertainty about the outcome, stating there is "no election here for him" and that the projects across the state will speak for Tinubu.
Key Points:
- The unprecedented pledge stakes the governor's political future on Tinubu's electoral performance in Edo.
- It reflects an extraordinary level of confidence in the president's popularity within the state.
- The statement ties the governor's personal legitimacy directly to Tinubu's success, creating a high-stakes political gamble.
- The emphasis on grassroots politics seeks to differentiate his approach from traditional vote-buying or coercion.
- If Tinubu loses, the pledge would trigger a constitutional and political crisis requiring the governor to follow through on his vow.
Governor Okpebholo's dramatic pledge raises the stakes for Tinubu's 2027 campaign in Edo State, betting his governorship on the outcome and signaling intense personal and political investment in the president's re-election.
Sources: African Independent Television Interview
