Benin Shuts Down as Okpebholo, Idahosa Celebrate Tribunal Victory
Benin City, the capital of Edo State, came to a standstill on Thursday as jubilant supporters welcomed Governor Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa following their victory at the election petition tribunal.
The tribunal upheld their win in the September 21, 2024, governorship election, solidifying their mandate. Accompanied by Secretary to the Edo State Government Musa Ikhilor and other top officials, Okpebholo’s convoy moved from the Benin Airport to the palace of the Oba of Benin, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II.
During the visit, the governor expressed gratitude for the Oba’s prayers and the unwavering support of Edo residents. He also commended the tribunal judges for their unanimous verdict in his favor.
“I am here in the palace to let you know that the issues of the election petition tribunal between Monday Okpebholo and Asue Ighodalo have been resolved. It was resolved in favor of Monday Okpebholo and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“The three judges agreed that Senator Monday Okpebholo won the September 21, 2024, governorship election in Edo State. Three parties took APC to the tribunal, and all the cases were thrown out by the judges. This means that I am the duly elected governor of Edo State.
“Your Majesty, I am here to thank you and Edo people for the love, prayers, and support shown to my administration. I will continue to do my best and work for Edo people and ensure that Edo enjoys the dividends of democracy.”
In response, the Oba of Benin, visibly pleased with the tribunal’s judgment, described Okpebholo as a traditional son of the palace and offered personal prayers for his success.
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“The tribunal’s judgment was a victory for Edo people. Edo governor has been doing well for the state, as he has hit the ground running. I am supposed to travel today on a working visit, but when I heard that the governor was coming, I had to wait for him.
“We heard that he wants to bring the victory to his father. I had to wait for him. He is my traditional son. We will do our best to be praying for him and play a fatherly role.
“The governor is a traditional son. We will not speak much. This is significant as we have not done this before. I appeal to the sons and daughters of the Oba, chiefs in the palace, as we will not allow our son to kneel for too long. We have not done this before, leaving the throne to lift a person up from his kneels. The ancestors directed us to do this.
“I encourage you to work harder, and I know you have been working so hard that sometimes you have no time to play. We thank you for coming here first. Thank you so much.”
With the tribunal ruling in their favor, Governor Okpebholo has promised to focus on delivering development projects and ensuring that Edo State continues to benefit from good governance.
