OT YET OVER? After INEC Declared APC’s Okpebholo As Winner, SEE First Message Obaseki Sent To Edo People
Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has called on the people of the state to remain peaceful and calm after the results of the September 21st governorship election were announced.
On Sunday, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the closely contested election. Okpebholo, 54, secured 291, 667 votes, defeating Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 247, 274 votes. Labour Party (LP) candidate, Olumide Akpata, finished third with 22, 761 votes.
In a statement issued shortly after the results were announced, Governor Obaseki expressed disappointment with how the election was conducted. He claimed that the election showed a blatant disregard for the rule of law and proper procedures. Obaseki urged those who feel wronged by the outcome to seek justice through legal channels instead of resorting to violence.
” The various political parties worked hard over the past few months, campaigning and promoting their candidates to the people of Edo State. This all culminated in the governorship election held yesterday, ” the statement read. ” The beauty of democracy lies in the power it gives the people to choose their leaders. When this power is forcefully taken away from the people, it becomes a tragedy and an insult to democracy. ”
Governor Obaseki acknowledged the frustration of many Edo residents who feel disillusioned by the election process. He recognized the widespread sentiment of disappointment, stating, ” The outcome of the September 21st election has dampened the spirits of many Edo people, who feel powerless against the misuse of authority by institutions meant to safeguard them. It is understandable that many feel aggrieved and sad. ”
However, despite these concerns, the governor strongly urged the people of Edo State to refrain from violence or destruction of property. ” In the face of this provocation, I am calling on all Edo citizens to remain peaceful. Do not resort to violence. Peace and justice will ultimately prevail, and that is my message to all the good people of Edo who feel hurt at this moment. ”
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Obaseki further criticized the conduct of the election, describing it as filled with ” impunity and reckless disregard for processes and law. ” He called on those affected to explore the legal routes available to them. ” Democracy provides safeguards for addressing grievances, and I hope that those impacted by this blatant disregard for the law and proper processes will seek redress through the courts. ”
In conclusion, the governor reassured the people of Edo that the government is committed to ensuring their safety and wellbeing. He urged everyone to go about their daily activities without fear, expressing confidence that the situation will be resolved peacefully.
The election, which was highly anticipated, saw fierce competition between the major political parties in the South- South state. Governor Obaseki, though not directly contesting, has been a key figure in the political dynamics of Edo State. His reaction to the election results highlights the tension that often follows highly competitive political races in Nigeria.
As legal proceedings and political responses unfold, all eyes will be on how the situation in Edo State evolves in the coming days.
