- Safiu Kehinde
President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Monday Okpebholo over his inauguration as new Edo state governor.
Tinubu, in his congratulatory message contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, urged Okphebolo to be diligent in his service to Edo people and make significant impact during his tenure.
Recall that NPO reported the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 All Progressive Congress’ (APC) governorship candidate who defeated the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) Asue Ighodalo at the September election to bring an end to the PDP’s eight years reign.
While reflecting on the APC’s victory at the governorship poll, Tinubu charged Okpebholo to foster true democracy, effective governance in the state and also justify the confidence the party placed in him.
The president further encouraged the new governor to encourage the legislature and other viral governmental bodies.
The statement read in part; “President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Senator Monday Okpebholo on his inauguration today as the Governor of Edo State.
“In his message, President Tinubu urged Governor Okpebholo to diligently work to enhance the living standards of the people of Edo State and make a significant impact during his tenure.
“Following his triumph in the state governorship election held on September 21, 2024, Okpebholo officially took over from former governor Godwin Obaseki.
“Reflecting on the transition, President Tinubu noted that after eight years under Obaseki’s administration, Edo State is rejoining the ranks of the All Progressives Congress.
“He emphasised the importance of Governor Okpebholo justifying the confidence placed in him and the APC while fostering true democracy and effective governance in the state.
“The President 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.
“Expressing concerns, President Tinubu lamented the previous administration’s attempts to undermine the legislative branch, which hindered its effectiveness for much of its tenure.
“Additionally, President Tinubu commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for the successful conduct of the Edo Governorship Election and encouraged 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.”