Isreal Afere, popularly known as Isreal DMW and the logistics manager to music superstar Davido, has made a stark prediction about the political future of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State. He declared that the ruling party would not secure up to 200,000 votes in the state during the 2027 presidential election if the process is free and fair.
Youth Anger Sparks Protest in Ekpoma
This bold statement was a direct reaction to a demonstration staged by angry youths in Ekpoma community, Edo State, on Saturday, January 10. The protesters took to the streets to voice their frustration and fear over the rising cases of kidnappings plaguing the state. Their anger was visibly directed at the political establishment.
During the protest, the youths expressed their discontent by tearing down political banners featuring President Bola Tinubu and the state governor, Monday Okpebholo. This act symbolized a deep-seated grievance against the perceived failure of leadership to guarantee security and safety for the citizens.
A Political Forecast from Isreal DMW
Reacting to videos of the protest circulating online, Isreal DMW took to his Instagram Stories to issue his political forecast. He wrote emphatically, "Apc, won't get 200k votes in coming Presidential election in edo state, if the election is free and fair."
This commentary from a figure closely associated with one of Nigeria's biggest entertainment icons highlights how issues of security and governance are resonating beyond traditional political circles. It underscores the potential electoral consequences for parties perceived as failing to address critical concerns like the kidnapping epidemic.
Implications for the 2027 Political Landscape
The incident in Ekpoma and the reaction it provoked point to several key developments:
- Security as a Primary Electoral Issue: The protest confirms that insecurity, particularly kidnappings, remains a top concern for voters in Edo State and could be a major deciding factor in future elections.
- Youth Mobilization: The active role of youths in the protest demonstrates their willingness to hold authorities accountable, signaling a politically engaged demographic that parties cannot ignore.
- APC's Challenge in Edo: Isreal DMW's prediction, whether accurate or not, frames a narrative of significant electoral vulnerability for the APC in the state, suggesting that current grievances could translate into votes against the party at the national level.
The events of January 10th in Ekpoma serve as a potent reminder that public patience on security matters is wearing thin. As the 2027 elections draw closer, political parties, especially the APC, will need to demonstrate tangible results in combating crime to sway the electorate, particularly in states like Edo where voter sentiment appears to be turning.
