Edo State’s Governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo, is looking forward to receiving a congratulatory message from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, following his recent election victory.
Okpebholo, who is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressed his hopes during a ceremony where he received his certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
This event took place on Thursday, and afterward, Okpebholo visited President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa.
In his remarks, Okpebholo emphasized his commitment to leading as a “servant-leader.” He is determined to prioritize the needs of the people of Edo State.
“For me, I’m coming as a servant to serve the Edo people. That is what is required of me, and that is what exactly I’m going to do. So very soon, you will see a lot of development coming up in Edo,” he stated.
His plans for the state include significant investments in education, including hiring more teachers and renovating schools, signaling a focus on improving the educational infrastructure.
Okpebholo is also open to collaborating with the opposition party. He expressed his willingness to consider any valuable suggestions they might have to enhance the state’s development.
“If they have an idea that is beautiful, that is acceptable by the people, then why not? My door is open to everybody,” he said.
He urged the opposition to accept the election results, stating, “They have to bear it. They have to wait. It has happened. If I had lost, I would have borne it, and I would have, by now, congratulated the winner. So I’m expecting them to congratulate me.”
Former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who accompanied Okpebholo to the Presidential Villa, praised the new governor. He emphasized that effective governance is not solely about physical infrastructure but also involves compassion and understanding the needs of the people.
“Only God can confer power. Man can make all the effort. If God chooses not to crown it, it will be in vain,” Oshiomhole remarked, reflecting on the divine nature of political success.
Oshiomhole further stated, “My joy is the fact that Edo people will now have a governor that they can hug, they can touch, they can feel, and the governor that will open the doors.” He highlighted Okpebholo’s empathy, noting that he would not impose harsh penalties, like sending pregnant women to jail for minor offenses, as was previously done.
