'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER — President Bola Tinubu has called on Edo State governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to prioritize the development of his state, pledging the full support of the Federal Government and the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF).
Speaking at a meeting held in Abuja with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), where Senator Okpebholo and his deputy, Rep. Dennis Idahosa, presented their certificates of return, the President emphasized the importance of good governance. He urged the governor-elect to learn from the experience of progressive APC governors and focus on delivering tangible results to the people of Edo State.
“Governor-elect, you can now face the task of development. We are here to work with you. You have seen the progressive governors of APC. They are truly progressive. Work with them. Learn the ropes, and I believe you are up to the task,” President Tinubu said.
The President acknowledged the challenges of democracy, particularly in developing nations like Nigeria, but reinforced that democracy, despite its difficulties, remains the best form of governance.
“You have earned the victory. Democracy is difficult, particularly in emerging democracies and economies like ours. But it remains the best form of government,” he stated, citing even mature democracies such as the United States facing similar challenges.
Tinubu congratulated both Senator Okpebholo and Rep. Idahosa, praising their journey from rivals to partners in governance, calling them a "symbol of good understanding in politics." He also applauded the contributions of APC stalwart, former Edo governor Senator Adams Oshiomhole, and the governors who actively supported the campaign during the Edo gubernatorial election.
“I saw Adams Oshiomhole radiating in joy… sincerely the governors showed up in Edo. They defended the party and worked hard for the party,” President Tinubu remarked, emphasizing the dedication shown by the APC leadership and its supporters during the election.
President Tinubu also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for conducting a peaceful and organized election. He expressed satisfaction with the absence of violence or disruptions, noting that voters were able to cast their ballots and return home without incident.
“There was no bloodshed, no riot. People voted and went back to their houses in peace, and the fears dissipated instantly,” Tinubu said, underscoring the success of the electoral process.
The President also highlighted the resilience of Edo voters, who braved a heavy downpour on Election Day to cast their votes, referencing the symbolic refusal of voters to use umbrellas, traditionally associated with the opposition party.
APC National Chairman, Senator Abdullahi Ganduje, echoed the President’s sentiments, lauding the leadership and commitment of party members. He pointed to the determination of Edo voters as a sign of confidence in the APC and signaled the party's intention to secure future victories in upcoming gubernatorial elections in Ondo and Anambra states.
“The election in Anambra is part of our programme, 'Political de-marginalization of Southeast geopolitical zone.' Having only two states in the Southeast as APC is too small for us. We need more states from the Southeast geopolitical zone,” Ganduje said.
The event highlighted the ongoing momentum within the APC as it continues to solidify its foothold in various states, with President Tinubu urging party members to stay united and focused on delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, confirmed the President's commitment to supporting the newly elected leadership in Edo as they prepare to embark on their term of governance.
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