The Southern Governors’ Forum (SGF) has congratulated Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on his victory at the Supreme Court, describing the judgment as a well-deserved affirmation of the people’s will.
Chairman of the Forum and Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, in a statement issued on behalf of his colleagues in Abeokuta on Thursday, said the ruling has finally put to rest all doubts surrounding Okpebholo’s electoral mandate.
Abiodun noted that the September 21, 2024 governorship election, in which Okpebholo polled 291,667 votes to defeat his closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who garnered 247,655 votes, was free, fair and a reflection of the electorate’s choice.
“On behalf of my brothers in the Southern Governors’ Forum, I heartily welcome the verdict of the Supreme Court today, affirming what the good people of Edo State and Nigerians already knew – that Governor Monday Okpebholo was genuinely elected to serve,” Abiodun said.
According to him, the ruling validates the position earlier taken by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Election Petitions Tribunal and the Court of Appeal, and clears the path for the governor to fully concentrate on governance without political distractions.
“This victory is great news not just for democracy in Nigeria and for the people of Edo State, but also for our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC),” he added. “It strengthens democratic institutions and inspires faith in the electoral process.”
The Forum further expressed confidence in Okpebholo’s ability to deliver on his promises, describing him as a “pro-people, focused and dynamic leader” whose administration will bring progress and prosperity to Edo people.
Governor Abiodun concluded by urging the people of Edo to remain supportive and united, adding that the victory marked the beginning of greater development in the state and across the southern region.
