'Seun Ibukun-Oni
DAILY COURIER – Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has extended his congratulations to Senator Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, on his victory in the Edo State Governorship election held on September 21, 2024. Senator Okpebholo was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Sunday, securing 291,667 votes to defeat his closest rival, Mr. Asue Ighodalo of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 247,274 votes.
In a statement today by his spokesperson, Ismaila Isah, the Governor Ododo praised the resilience and determination of Senator Okpebholo and the APC leadership, which led to the party’s return to power in Edo State. He specifically commended the people of Edo for their peaceful conduct during the election and their commitment to electing the APC candidate as their next governor.
Governor Ododo, who was present in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area to support the APC’s campaign, noted that the party’s victory in the region was crucial. Akoko-Edo delivered the highest number of votes for the APC, with 34,847 votes, contributing significantly to Senator Okpebholo’s overall success. Ododo praised the local voters for their strong support and for demonstrating their belief in the APC’s agenda.
The Kogi State Governor also lauded INEC and law enforcement agencies for maintaining law and order throughout the election. He commended their professionalism, which ensured that the election process was peaceful and credible.
Governor Ododo reiterated the APC’s commitment, alongside the Edo Governor-elect, to prioritize the welfare of the people and foster inclusive development across Edo State. He emphasized that Senator Okpebholo’s administration will align with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, focusing on economic growth and social development.
In addition, Governor Ododo expressed his desire to strengthen the partnership between Kogi and Edo, as neighboring states with close social, cultural, and economic ties. He prayed for God’s guidance for the Governor-elect as he prepares to lead Edo State into a new era of progress and development.
Senator Monday Okpebholo’s victory marks the APC’s return to power in Edo, after a competitive race in which he outpaced PDP’s Asue Ighodalo by a margin of over 44,000 votes.
The Edo State Governorship election has been hailed as a testament to the maturing democracy in Nigeria, with peaceful conduct across the state and a strong turnout in favor of the APC.
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