Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has declared that the outcome of last Saturday’s by-election in the state has further affirmed the legitimacy of his victory in the September 21, 2024 governorship election.
Governor Okpebholo made the remark on Monday when he received the Member-elect of Ovia Federal Constituency, Hon. Gabriella Omosede Igbinedion, who was led on a thank-you visit by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa.
According to the governor, the resounding victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the by-election reflects the genuine love of the people of Edo for the party.
“This by-election result shows that Edo people have spoken. They said we stole their mandate, but I waited for this election to confirm the truth. From Edo Central to Ovia, the outcome shows that no mandate was stolen. APC won all 51 wards convincingly. The people freely gave us their votes,” he said.
Governor Okpebholo further noted that both past and present candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including their chairmen, lost in their wards and units—proof, he said, that Edo people never truly voted for them.
He assured that the APC remains firmly rooted in Edo State, pledging continued support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration while reaffirming his commitment to mobilizing 2.5 million votes for the president in future elections.
“Edo is APC, and we love President Tinubu. We will not rest but continue to work hard to deliver on our promises and secure victory for our party,” the governor stressed.
In his remarks, Deputy Governor Idahosa introduced Hon. Igbinedion as his successor, following her victory in the Ovia Federal Constituency by-election held on Saturday, August 16, 2025.
“She is my successor, and I am here to present her to you while also thanking you for your purposeful leadership. The people of Ovia asked me to appreciate your support,” he said.
Hon. Igbinedion, in her response, expressed gratitude to the governor and the people of Ovia for their confidence in her. She pledged effective representation at the National Assembly, leveraging her prior legislative experience.
“The people should expect that I will hit the ground running. I am not new to the National Assembly and will use my experience to deliver projects that benefit Ovia and Edo State. The votes we received were a reflection of the people’s recognition of your leadership and the impact of your administration across the state. I promise not to let them down,” she assured.
