The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has stepped up its campaign efforts in Edo State for the 2027 general elections. Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, the party's Vice-Presidential Candidate, and Chief John Oyegun, a former governor of Edo State, led the campaign in the state capital, Benin City. They emphasized the need for political change and economic reforms in Nigeria. The town hall meeting, attended by party leaders, candidates, supporters, and dignitaries, showcased the party's vision for Edo State and Nigeria.
Amaechi criticized the economic policies of the President Bola Tinubu administration, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, which he said had worsened inflation and increased the burden on ordinary Nigerians. He argued that energy remained fundamental to economic production and that the subsidy removal was undertaken without sufficient consideration of its effect on inflation and the cost of living. Amaechi assured that an ADC-led government would introduce production subsidies and implement policies designed to make production easier.
The ADC vice-presidential candidate promised greater participation of women in government, saying the country could not be effectively governed without women. He stated that an ADC government would increase women's participation in governance and provide schools in all rural communities across the country. Amaechi also pledged to reduce the cost of school fees and make education more accessible to Nigerians. He recalled his experience as Rivers State governor, where he engaged directly with residents, enabling leaders to understand the realities facing the people.
Edo State ADC Chairman, Chief Anthony Alile, said the town hall meeting demonstrated that the party was fully preparing for the 2027 elections. Alile pointed out that Nigeria was at a critical crossroads and that the ADC was seeking power to restore effective governance. He said the people of Edo wanted jobs, security, and leadership they could trust, stressing that the party's message of change was resonating across the state.
Other ADC leaders, including Barr. Kenneth Imasogbon, Senator Ehigie Uzamere, and Naomi Lasara, the party's National Woman Leader, urged voters to use their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to effect political change. They accused the ruling party of leaving the state with bad roads and insecurity. Imasogbon said the people of Edo were not cowards and would support the ADC at the polls.
Chief John Oyegun, a former governor of Edo State, expressed concern over political intimidation in Edo State, particularly alleged threats of involving AK-47s, in the election. He questioned whether such a political environment was what the people wanted. Oyegun said he had closely observed Amaechi during his tenure as Rivers State governor and argued that Nigeria needed courageous leadership and experience to address its current challenges.
The town hall meeting featured the official commissioning of ADC campaign songs under the theme, "Entertainer for Good Governance." The event also included the presentation of ADC candidates and members of the party's state working committee. KEY_POINT: The ADC is seeking to make a significant impact in the 2027 general elections in Edo State. KEY_POINT: Amaechi and Oyegun emphasized the need for economic reforms and political change in Nigeria. KEY_POINT: The party aims to increase women's participation in governance and provide education and job opportunities to Nigerians.
