Emmanuel lkpeama, Felicia Asuquo
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Senator Monday Okpebholo on his inauguration as the governor of Edo State.
It will be recalled that Okpebholo took over the reins of leadership on Tuesday from the immediate past governor, Godwin Obaseki, in a ceremony that attracted dignitaries including Vice President Kashim Shettima.
In a statement by presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the President asked “Governor Okpebholo to diligently work to enhance the living standards of the people of Edo State and make a significant impact during his tenure.”
The President went further to expressed joy that Edo has joined the ranks of states governed by the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He also called on the new governor to justify “the confidence placed in him and the APC while fostering true democracy and effective governance in the state.”
In doing this, he encouraged Okpebholo to empower the Legislature and other vital government institutions throughout his administration, underscoring that a robust and independent legislature is essential for achieving democratic good governance.
Tinubu “lamented the previous administration’s attempts to undermine the legislative branch, which hindered its effectiveness for much of its tenure.”
He also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for the successful conduct of the Edo Governorship Election and urged the Commission to strive for even greater excellence in the upcoming Ondo Governorship Election, scheduled for November 16, 2024.
The President celebrated this milestone as a new chapter in Edo State’s democratic journey and rejoiced with the people of Edo for this momentous occasion.
In the same vein, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also congratulated the newly sworn in Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, describing his assumption into office as the beginning of a new chapter in Edo State.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who is the Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum, urged the people of Edo State at home and in the diaspora to rally around the new Governor for the development and growth of the State.
Sanwo-Olu in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, wished Governor Okpebholo and his deputy, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, a very successful tenure.
He said, “It gives me great pleasure today to be in Benin for the inauguration of Senator Monday Okpebholo as the new Governor of Edo State. I believe that his assumption into office will mark the beginning of a new chapter in Edo State.
“Looking at his track records, I am convinced Governor Okpebholo will justify the confidence the great people of Edo State reposed in him with greater performance in office, and I wish him a very successful tenure.
“I believe that Governor Okpebholo has the heart to transform Edo State. He has the heart to touch the lives of the people and make life meaningful for the people of Edo State.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who attended Okpebholo’s inauguration ceremony held at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin today, also reassured his Edo counterpart of necessary support to make the best of his time as a governor.
