President Bola Tinubu has urged Edo’s governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo, to prioritize the development of the state, assuring him of full support from both the federal government and the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF).
The president made these remarks during a meeting on Thursday in Abuja with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC). At the gathering, Okpebholo and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, presented their certificates of return following their recent election victory.
Emphasizing the importance of effective governance, President Tinubu stated, “Governor-elect, you can now focus on the task of development. We are here to work alongside you. You’ve seen the APC progressive governors, and they are truly progressive. Work with them and learn the ropes; I believe you are ready for the task ahead.”
President Tinubu acknowledged the complexity of navigating democracy, particularly in developing nations like Nigeria. “You have earned this victory. Democracy is challenging, especially in emerging democracies and economies such as ours. Even in places like America, you hear complaints about how difficult it is to navigate. But democracy remains the best form of governance,” he said.
Congratulating Okpebholo and Idahosa, Tinubu praised their partnership, describing it as a “good symbol of people ordained by God to work together.” He added, “You started as rivals and ended up as partners. You represent good political understanding, and the party’s leadership has been through similar experiences.”
The president also recognized the significant role of former Edo state governor Adams Oshiomhole, the APC progressive governors, and party leadership in securing the successful outcome of the Edo gubernatorial election. “I saw Adams Oshiomhole radiating with joy. The governors really impressed me with their efforts in Edo. They defended the party and worked tirelessly,” Tinubu remarked.
In addition, Tinubu commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for their role in ensuring a peaceful and organized election, free from violence or unrest. “I must thank the security agencies. There was no bloodshed, no riots; people cast their votes and returned home in peace. The fears were immediately dispelled,” he said.
The president also emphasized the importance of unity within the APC, urging party members to stay focused on delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda. He noted, “Ignore the noise makers. I frequently conduct statistical analysis, and when politicians say ‘all politics is local,’ you must respect that idea. The stability in the Edo North Senatorial District speaks volumes.”
President Tinubu humorously reflected on the dedication of Edo voters, particularly noting the downpour on election day. “It’s a striking illustration. Despite the heavy rain, people came out to vote without using an umbrella, which says a lot about their determination,” he said, referring to the election-day conditions noted by APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje.
In his remarks, Ganduje praised the leadership of the president, governors, and stakeholders in securing the Edo election victory. “On election day, it rained heavily, but people came out to vote without umbrellas. This shows their confidence in our party,” Ganduje said.
Looking ahead, Ganduje highlighted the APC’s focus on upcoming gubernatorial elections in Ondo and Anambra, stressing the importance of expanding the party’s influence in the Southeast. “The election in Anambra is part of our program to address the political marginalization of the Southeast. Two APC states in the region are not enough; we need more,” he asserted.
