Temisan Olaifa
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called on the defeated candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the September 21, 2024, governorship election in the state, Mr. Asue Ighodalo, to accept Thursday’s judgment of the Court of Appeal, which affirmed him ( Okpebholo) as the governor.
The Court of Appeal, in the judgment delivered on Thursday, reviewed the arguments presented by all parties and upheld the decision of the lower tribunal, which had earlier declared the governor as the winner of the election.
The governor, in a statement signed by his spokesman, Mr Fred Itua, said, “Governor Monday Okpebholo commends the judiciary for its diligence and commitment to justice and for once again demonstrating its role as the last hope of the common man.
“This ruling is not just a victory for our party, the ruling All Progressives Congress, but a triumph for democracy and the rule of law in our Edo State.
“Governor Okpebholo urges the opposition and Asue Ighodalo to reflect on the judgment, noting that prolonged litigation only serves to distract from the urgent task of governance and delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.
“His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo has consistently extended an olive branch to all, irrespective of political leanings, emphasising that the development of our dear state remains paramount.
“He reiterates this call. Now is the time to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and statesmanship. The legal process has run its course, and the judgment of the Court of Appeal is clear.”
Governor Okpebholo assured the people of Edo State that he remains fully committed to his “People First” agenda.
“The administration of Governor Okpebholo urges all well-meaning citizens to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities.
“The government of Governor Monday Okpebholo is re-energised by this affirmation of its mandate and will continue to work tirelessly to serve the best interests of every resident of Edo State,” the statement added.
