President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Senator Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, on his triumph in the Edo State governorship election held on Saturday.
Okpebholo was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), having secured a decisive victory over his opponents, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, and the Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata.
In a statement released on Sunday, President Tinubu commended the APC leadership at both the national and state levels for their dedicated efforts that resulted in the party’s victory.
He remarked that the win reflects the trust of the Edo people in the APC’s commitment to economic transformation and bettering the lives of Nigerians.
The President urged Senator Okpebholo to embrace his victory with humility and focus on fostering unity across the state.
He advised the governor-elect to reach out to his political opponents and work towards the collective development of Edo State.
“This is a time to bring people together and serve all citizens, not a moment for triumphalism,” Tinubu said, emphasizing leadership rooted in inclusivity.
President Tinubu also praised the other candidates for their roles in promoting Nigeria’s democratic progress, highlighting the peaceful conduct of the election as a sign of the nation’s growing democratic maturity.
He stressed that Saturday’s election underscored Nigeria’s stable democracy, 25 years after the return to civilian rule.
The President expressed his appreciation to the people of Edo State for their orderly and peaceful participation during the election, underscoring their role in reinforcing democratic values.
He also commended INEC and security agencies for conducting a smooth, transparent election, reaffirming his belief in INEC’s dedication to upholding free and fair elections in Nigeria.
For those dissatisfied with the election outcome, President Tinubu encouraged the use of lawful and constitutional means to seek redress, reiterating the importance of preserving the rule of law in the country.
