President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Senator Monday Okpebholo, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following his victory in the Edo State governorship election held on Saturday.
Okpebholo was officially declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after defeating his main contenders, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, and Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata.
In a statement released by the State House on Sunday, President Tinubu lauded the efforts of APC leaders at both the national and state levels, crediting their hard work for securing the party’s victory in Edo.
He noted that the win was a reflection of the people’s confidence in the APC’s progressive agenda, which aims to improve the economy and the lives of Nigerians.
The President urged Senator Okpebholo to approach his victory with humility, emphasizing the need for unity and inclusion.
He encouraged him to reach out to his political opponents and focus on the development of Edo State.
“This victory is not for gloating but a call to service,” President Tinubu said, stressing the importance of magnanimity in leadership.
President Tinubu also extended praise to the other candidates who participated in the election, acknowledging their role in advancing Nigeria’s democracy.
He noted that the peaceful conduct of the election reflects the maturity of Nigeria’s democratic process, 25 years after its return to civilian rule.
Furthermore, the President commended the people of Edo State for their orderly participation, stating that their peaceful conduct during the election was a testament to Nigeria’s growing democratic values.
He also applauded INEC and security agencies for successfully organizing a transparent and largely hitch-free election, reaffirming his belief in INEC’s commitment to free and fair elections in the country.
The President concluded by urging any parties aggrieved by the election outcome to seek redress through lawful and constitutional channels, reinforcing the rule of law and democratic principles.