Vice President Kashim Shettima, Lagos Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his Ogun counterpart, Dapo Abiodun, and other governors graced the inauguration of Sen. Monday Okpebholo as Edo governor with their presence on Tuesday.
Persecondnews reported that Barr. Asue Ighodalo of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Barr. Olumide Akpata (SAN) of the Labour Party were defeated by Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the September 21 governorship poll.
The state’s Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okongbowa, administered the oaths to Okpebholo and his deputy governor, Hon. Denise Idahosa.
Governors of the All Progressives Congress (APC) joined Shettima as he led the Federal Government delegation to the inauguration.
The governors included Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Hope Uzodinma (Imo), and Ahmad Aliyu (Sokoto).
The National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, and one of his predecessors, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, were also part of the ceremony at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin.
In his inaugural speech, Okpebholo thanked the people of Edo State for their support in his emergence as governor, describing it as the triumph of democracy.
“Let me start by thanking God for His grace and incredible blessings. Democracy has triumphed again in our dear state,” he said.
“For me, this is a humbling moment made possible by you all,” he said, adding, “Today, you have officially given me the mandate to preside over our dear state as governor for the next four years.
“We will not betray this confidence you have reposed in me and the deputy governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa. The welfare of our citizens is a top priority to us,” he promised.
He also promised to strengthen the security of the state, link communities together by road, and support small businesses to boost the economy.
Amidst a heavy crowd and tight security, Okpebholo, accompanied by his two daughters, took the oath of office and allegiance at 1:00 p.m.
Dennis Idahosa had earlier ascended the podium with his wife to take the oath as the Deputy Governor.
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