• Obaseki, Ighodalo kick
By Lami Ibrahim
Jubilation erupted in Benin City, the Edo State capital, following yesterday’s verdict of the Supreme Court, which affirmed the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo in the September 21, 2024 election.
The governor described the outcome as a victory for citizens of the state.
He said: “The verdict brought to a close all legal contestations arising from the election.”
Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Asue Ighodalo, who lost at all three levels – tribunal, Court of Appeal and finally at the Supreme Court – and former Governor Godwin Obaseki rejected the judgment, but said there was nothing else to do.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Okpebholo extended an olive branch to Ighodalo and other opposition members.
The statement reads: “This definitive verdict is not merely a legal triumph, it is a solemn reaffirmation of the sacred mandate freely given by the people of Edo State.
“It signals the beginning of a fresh chapter rooted in unity, inclusiveness, and accelerated development.
“His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, extends profound gratitude to the judiciary for its courage and fidelity to justice, and to the great people of Edo State for their unflinching support, patience, and faith in democracy.
“He views this moment not as a personal victory but as a shared triumph for every Edo citizen, regardless of
“Governor Okpebholo renews his vow to lead with humility, compassion, and accountability. His administration remains fully committed to its developmental blueprint — prioritising security, infrastructure, education, agriculture, healthcare, youth empowerment and job creation.
“The focus remains clear: to deliver tangible benefits that uplift lives and restore confidence in public leadership.
“In the true spirit of statesmanship, Governor Okpebholo extends a sincere olive branch to all his opponents and members of the opposition. The elections are over; the real work of governance and healing must begin.
“He urged political leaders across party lines to rise above division and contribute constructively to the task of building a greater Edo State.
“Constructive criticism and diverse perspectives will always be welcomed, but they must be rooted in a sincere desire to see Edo thrive.
“Edo belongs to all of us. The time has come to set aside our differences, close ranks, and march forward — united in purpose, anchored in peace, and driven by a shared vision of progress.
“Let this victory ignite a new era of unity, dialogue, and impact-driven governance. Let history remember this moment as the point when Edo chose collaboration over conflict, vision over vendetta, and service over self.”
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