By DADA AYOKHAI
In a bold and historic political move, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has formed a strategic alliance with Prince Tom Iseghohi-Okojie, the gubernatorial candidate of the Action Alliance
(AA), ahead of the forthcoming Edo State elections.
This unprecedented collaboration is seen as a game-changing factor in securing a landslide victory, with the combined power of both parties expected to mobilize at least 500,000 voters on election day.
In a press statement titled “Let the Masses Live,”Prince Tom expressed his heartfelt commitment to the people of Edo and outlined his reasons for stepping down from the gubernatorial race to support APC’s candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
The decision, he emphasized, was a move rooted in the desire to unify efforts and ensure the prosperity of Edo State.
Prince Tom, whose grassroots network boasts over 65,000 members and capacity to mobilize 250,000 to 500,000 votes on election day, explained that the alliance with APC brings together
the strength of two powerful structures, with a vision to transform Edo State.
“I ran because I believe in a better Edo, but I now realize that the best way to deliver on my promise to the people is by aligning with someone who has a stronger party platform and whose vision is consistent with mine,” he stated.
Why APC and Senator Monday Okpebholo?
Prince Tom said he acknowledged that while Senator Monday Okpebholo may not be known for his public charisma, he possesses the quiet strength, strategic thinking, and grassroots connections necessary to lead Edo out of its current challenges.
Drawing parallels with historic leaders like Winston Churchill and Abraham Lincoln, Prince Tom praised Okpebholo for his behind the scenes leadership and ability to make tough decisions for the greater good.
Senator Okpehbolo’s leadership qualities, Prince Tom highlighted, are what make him the right person to lead Edo forward. “He is a grassroots man, deeply connected to the people, and he understands their pain,” said Prince Tom. “His humility is his strength, and his ability to navigate complex issues behind the scenes is what makes him the leader Edo needs.”
It said that the power of collaboration between the APC and the AA is expected to bring unprecedented voter turnout.
Prince Tom’s grassroots network will re-engage the estimated 1.5 million silent voters in Edo who have been disengaged from the political process, thereby expanding APC’s reach and resources.
Prince Tom’s trusted leadership among this silent majority is seen as the key to delivering a clear
victory.
Prince Tom also assured his supporters that he would remain deeply involved in the campaign,
helping to manage media relations, acting as a surrogate for Okpebholo when necessary, and crafting an economic plan to pull Edo out of inflation and unemployment.
He outlined a vision to attract billions of dollars in investment and create 250,000 jobs over the next three years.
A Historic win for Edo
This alliance between APC and AA, he said is not just a power-sharing agreement—it is a carefully
orchestrated strategy designed to deliver a historic victory.
“The collaboration will combine
APC’s federal might, Okpebholo’s community affinity and Prince Tom’s grassroots mobilization structure, setting the stage for a decisive win that neither APC nor PDP could achieve on their
own.
With a strong message of unity, Prince Tom called on his supporters and all citizens of Edo State to rally behind the APC and Senator Monday Okpebholo, promising a future of peace, unity,
growth, stability, and prosperity for the state.
“This election is the APC’s to win, but it will not be easy,” Prince Tom concluded. “With APC’s
candidate at the helm, supported by AA’s grassroots structure and my leadership, we will deliver
a historic win and a brighter future for Edo State.”
As the election draws near, the APC-AA collaboration is expected to change the political
landscape of Edo, with both parties working in tandem to deliver real change and progress for
the people of the state.
Beyond the elections, in the joint press conference hosted by Prince
Tom and The APC, the APC reiterated their commitment to forming a unity government in
November.
