ABUJA: President Bola Tinubu has officially congratulated Senator Monday Okpebholo on his recent election as the Governor of Edo State, offering words of encouragement and wisdom as he steps into this significant role. In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Okpebholo’s victory as a testament to the people’s support for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and its progressive ideals.
Senator Okpebholo, representing the APC, was declared the winner of the governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Sunday, securing a decisive victory over his opponents. In light of this achievement, President Tinubu advised him not to gloat but to regard this victory as a “challenging call to service” for the citizens of Edo State.
“Your election is not merely a triumph; it is an obligation to serve the people with integrity and dedication,” President Tinubu emphasized. He urged the governor-elect to demonstrate magnanimity by reaching out to his political rivals and uniting all factions within the state, thereby fostering an environment conducive to growth and development.
President Tinubu also took the opportunity to commend the hard work of APC national leaders, Edo State leaders, and fellow party governors, acknowledging their collective efforts in securing this significant win. “This victory reflects the commitment of our party to improve the lives of Nigerians through our economic reengineering programs and progressive policies,” he noted.
In addition to congratulating Okpebholo, President Tinubu praised all candidates who participated in the election, recognizing their roles in enhancing Nigeria’s democratic landscape. He highlighted the importance of peaceful political contests, which serve to reinforce Nigeria’s image as a stable democracy. The president encouraged those who may feel aggrieved by the election results to pursue redress through appropriate legal channels, underscoring the importance of upholding democratic norms.
President Tinubu expressed his gratitude to the citizens of Edo State for their orderly and peaceful conduct during the elections, remarking on the maturation of Nigeria’s democracy over the past 25 years. “Your commitment to a peaceful electoral process is a testament to the strength of our democratic values,” he stated.
He also commended the INEC and security agencies for their tireless efforts in ensuring a successful and largely hitch-free electoral exercise. “INEC has once again demonstrated its commitment to organizing free and fair elections in our country,” President Tinubu affirmed, acknowledging the integrity and professionalism displayed throughout the electoral process.
As Senator Okpebholo prepares to take on the responsibilities of governance, the words of President Tinubu serve as both a reminder of the challenges ahead and an encouragement to lead with vision and inclusivity. The path to unity and progress for Edo State is paved with collaboration, and the expectation is set for the new administration to foster an environment where all citizens feel represented and engaged in the development of their state.
