Benin City, the capital of Edo State, witnessed a moment of significance on Thursday as Governor Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa returned to the state from Abuja, following the election petition tribunal’s ruling which affirmed them as the duly-elected Governor and Deputy Governor, respectively, in the September 21, 2024 governorship election.
Accompanied by Deputy Governor Idahosa, Secretary to the State Government Musa Ikhilor, and other key government officials, the Governor made his way in a motorcade from the airport to the palace of the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, where he was greeted by the cheers of the residents.
During the visit, the Governor and his entourage paid homage to the Oba of Benin, expressing their gratitude for the support and prayers offered by the monarch and the people of Edo State since the administration took office.
Governor Okpebholo also took the opportunity to thank the judiciary for their unanimous decision in his favour, based on the evidence presented by all parties involved in the tribunal proceedings. He assured the people of Edo State that his administration would continue to push forward with its developmental agenda to ensure that the citizens reap the benefits of democracy.
He remarked, “I am here in the palace to inform you that the issues surrounding the election petition tribunal between myself, Monday Okpebholo, and Asue Ighodalo have been resolved. The tribunal ruled in my favour and that of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The three judges concurred that I won the September 21st governorship election in Edo State. All cases brought against APC by three other parties were dismissed. This affirms that I am the duly elected Governor of Edo State.”
“Your Majesty, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to you and to the people of Edo State for the overwhelming love, prayers, and support shown to my administration. I pledge to continue doing my best to serve the people of Edo and ensure that they experience the full benefits of democracy.”
His Royal Majesty, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, expressed his delight at the outcome of the tribunal, acknowledging the Governor as a traditional son of the palace. In an unprecedented gesture, the Oba personally offered prayers for Governor Okpebholo, rather than delegating the task to a palace chief. The Oba praised the Governor’s leadership, noting that while some individuals had tried to harm the Kingdom, Governor Okpebholo had emerged to steer the state towards development and progress.
The Oba further stated, “The tribunal’s judgment was a victory for the people of Edo. The Governor has already made an impact, demonstrating his commitment to the state’s growth. I had planned to travel today on a work visit, but upon hearing of the Governor’s return, I chose to wait for him. He is my traditional son, and we will continue to offer our prayers and support.”
“We will ensure that the Governor does not kneel for long, as it is customary to lift our son from his knees in accordance with the directives of our ancestors. I encourage you to continue working hard, as I know you are, even when there is little time to rest. Thank you for coming here first, and we deeply appreciate your presence.”
