In a formal ceremony, Okpebholo and Idahosa are sworn in as the new Governor and Deputy Governor of Edo State, marking the beginning of their administration.
Monday Okpebholo has been inaugurated as the governor of Edo State, following months after his election to succeed Godwin Obaseki, who finished his second term in office.
At Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Chief Justice Daniel Okungbowa administered the oath to both the governor and deputy governor. They pledged their commitment to upholding the constitution and working for the well-being of Edo State’s citizens.
Dignitaries such as Vice President Kashim Shettima, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Chairman of the Governors’ Forum, Philip Shaibu—the reinstated deputy governor of Edo—and other governors from the APC were present for Okpebholo’s oath-taking ceremony.
The ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including Vice President Kashim Shettima representing President Bola Tinubu; governors affiliated with the APC; Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo; and former Edo governor Adams Oshiomhole, among others.
Their inauguration encapsulates a fascinating political season in Edo State, characterized by former allies turning into rivals and godfathers clashing with their mentees.
Okpebholo emerged victorious over Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a closely contested election on September 21. The APC candidate secured 291,667 votes compared to his main opponent’s total of 247,274. Meanwhile, Labour Party (LP) candidate Olumide Akpata finished in third place with just 22,763 votes out of fourteen contestants in the race.
Despite having the support of then-Governor Obaseki, the PDP was unable to maintain its grip on power in Edo State and conceded to the APC, allowing a former governor to secure his first ticket to office.
Analysts suggest that the APC reclaiming Edo State reflects the broken relationship between Philip Shuaibu, Obaseki’s former deputy, and Oshiomhole. This rift contributed to Okpebholo’s rise.
However, the PDP has contested the victory, asserting that its mandate was unjustly taken. The party pledged to challenge Okpebholo’s win, claiming it did not reflect the will of the people.
