Monday Okpebholo, the Edo State governor-elect from the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed that he expects a congratulatory message from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), particularly its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, who was defeated in the recent gubernatorial election.
Speaking after receiving his certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Okpebholo proceeded to the Presidential Villa to meet with President Bola Tinubu. He emphasized his intention to serve as a true servant leader for the people of Edo State.
In his remarks, Okpebholo reached out to his opponents from the just-concluded election, saying, “I am here to serve the people of Edo, and that’s what I’ll do. I am coming as a servant to fulfill the expectations of the people.”
He expressed his readiness to work with the opposition, noting that he would welcome ideas that contribute to the state’s development. “If they have ideas that are good for the people, I’m open to hearing them. My door is open to everyone who wants to see Edo progress,” Okpebholo stated.
Outlining his vision for the state, Okpebholo mentioned that his administration would prioritize critical areas such as education. “We’ll be hiring more teachers and renovating our schools. Over time, you will see Edo transform. A new era has begun,” he declared confidently.
He also called on his rivals to gracefully accept the outcome of the election and congratulate him on his victory. “If I had lost, I would have accepted it in good faith and congratulated the winner. So, I’m expecting them to do the same,” Okpebholo said.
Meanwhile, former Edo State Governor and APC stalwart, Adams Oshiomhole, expressed joy over the victory, describing Okpebholo as a governor the people of Edo can easily connect with. Oshiomhole, a former National Chairman of the APC, stressed that leadership is not just about infrastructure but about understanding the people’s needs.
“Governance isn’t only about building roads and schools. It’s about leadership with a heart—someone who listens and feels the pulse of the people,” Oshiomhole remarked. He pointed out that Okpebholo’s success was ultimately made possible by divine intervention. “No matter how hard you campaign, only God can crown your efforts with success,” he added.
Oshiomhole, reflecting on Edo’s political history, likened the recent victory to the one in 2007 when the APC first took back control of the state from the PDP. “What excites me most is that the people of Edo now have a governor who understands them, who they can approach without fear.”
He also made a subtle jab at the outgoing administration, recalling a past injustice where a pregnant woman was jailed over a minor fine, stating, “We now have a governor who won’t treat his people with such disregard.”
Praising Okpebholo’s deep connection with the ordinary citizens of the state, Oshiomhole concluded, “Edo people now have a governor they can truly embrace, someone who understands their struggles and is here to serve. This is a governor for the people.”
