On Saturday, Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo addressed supporters during a homecoming reception in celebration of his victory in the recent governorship election. The event took place at the Esan Central Local Government Council Secretariat, where Okpebholo expressed his gratitude to the people of Esan for their overwhelming support during the election. He highlighted a contradiction in the claims of those who had previously falsified election results on social media, asserting that the same individuals are now lamenting about electoral rigging. This pointed criticism underlined his position that those who engage in deceitful practices will continue to fail, urging that their efforts are in vain as the people of Edo have decisively chosen development, peace, and unity.
In his speech, Okpebholo acknowledged the crucial role of President Bola Tinubu and his party’s leadership in maintaining integrity throughout the electoral process. He emphasized that their commitment to justice and equity helped facilitate the success of the election for his party. The Governor’s remarks echoed sentiments of gratitude for the support received, pledging to deliver on the confidence the people placed in him. He assured his constituents that he would uphold the values of justice and focus on fulfilling the promises made during the campaign.
The event also witnessed appreciation from traditional leaders, including His Royal Highness, Anselm Aidenojie II, the Onojie of Uromi. He voiced the collective happiness among the people of Esan at having one of their own serve as governor. Aidenojie further reflected on the efforts made by traditional rulers across the state to garner support for Okpebholo’s election, signifying the celebration not just as a personal victory but a communal achievement for Esan land. He expressed hope and confidence that the new Governor would prioritize delivering the promised dividends of democracy to all citizens of Edo State.
The APC state chairman, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, also took the opportunity to acknowledge the trust bestowed upon Okpebholo by the Edo people. He commended the Governor for quickly engaging in governance since his inauguration, establishing a contrast with the previous administration, which he characterized as bereft of significant leadership. Tenebe’s remarks indicated optimism that Okpebholo’s leadership would usher in a new phase of governance in the state over the coming years, starting from the foundation laid by former Governor Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.
The gathering was a unifying event that brought together a diverse array of dignitaries, including traditional rulers from Edo Central, the Secretary to the State Government, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, members of the Edo State House of Assembly, and numerous party loyalists. This collective presence illustrated the strong political backing that Okpebholo enjoys within the community, as well as the hopes and aspirations of the people as they look towards a future of effective governance.
In conclusion, the reception served as a platform for reinforcing community ties and political solidarity following the election. Governor Okpebholo’s message resonated throughout the event, emphasizing accountability, dedication, and hope for progress in Edo State. The sentiments shared by traditional leaders and party officials echoed a collective expectation for a transformative governance era under Okpebholo’s administration, with a renewed focus on bringing political promises to fruition for the benefit of all Edo citizens.
