Following the late announcement of the Edo State Governorship election results by the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC on Sunday night, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress APC, Senator Monday Okpebholo, was declared the winner after receiving the highest number of lawful votes. The governor-elect, along with his deputy Dennis Idahosa and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, promptly took their celebrations to the palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II.
The joyous Oba praised President Bola Tinubu for ensuring a peaceful election and expressed confidence that the new governor would develop the state and uphold traditional institutions.
Victory was in the air, especially at the residence of Senator Adams Oshiomhole in Benin City, where party leaders and Senate President Godswill Akpabio awaited the official election results. The moment they had anticipated arrived as INEC announced Senator Okpebholo as the winner of the September 21 election.
The elated governor-elect and his deputy thanked the people of Edo State for their support and reiterated their commitment to transforming the state.
Prominent APC members, led by Akpabio, also share their feelings on the election results.
After a brief celebration, around 10:30 PM, they proceeded to the Oba’s palace to continue the festivities. There, Senate President Godswill Akpabio introduced the governor-elect and his deputy, as the palace filled to capacity despite the late hour.
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In his remarks, Oba Ewuare II congratulated Senator Okpebholo and commended President Tinubu for facilitating a peaceful electoral process.
Earlier, several APC governors and prominent party figures were seen celebrating ahead of the final announcement. Senator Okpebholo scored 291,667 votes, defeating his closest rival from the PDP, Asue Ighodalo, who received 247,274 votes.
Senator Okpebholo will officially take office on November 12, 2024, following the end of Governor Godwin Obaseki’s tenure, which is less than two months away.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
