Governor Monday Okpebholo has praised the large turnout of All Progressives Congress (APC) members during the party’s presidential primary held in Edo State on Saturday.

The governor spoke after participating in the exercise at Ward 2, Udomi, in Esan Central Local Government Area, where party members voted using the Option A4 system adopted by the APC National Working Committee for the nationwide presidential primary.

Okpebholo said the turnout reflected growing support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

According to him, the peaceful conduct of the exercise and the enthusiasm displayed by party supporters showed that Edo residents were prepared to support Tinubu’s re-election bid.

“People came out happily and voted overwhelmingly for the President. What happened here today is a reflection of what will happen across Edo State during the general election,” the governor said.

Okpebholo also reiterated his earlier claim that Tinubu could secure 2.5 million votes from Edo State in 2027, insisting that the target was achievable despite doubts from critics.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Tinubu is the sole APC presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

Speaking on the outcome of the exercise, the returning officer for the primary, Mr. Favour Ehimegbe, said the process was conducted in line with party guidelines, with members verified through their party cards before voting.

Ehimegbe added that Tinubu polled 360 votes in Ward 2, Esan Central Local Government Area, to emerge winner of the primary in the ward.