Monday Okpebholo has officially assumed office as the Governor of Edo State, concluding Godwin Obaseki’s eight-year administration in the South-South region. The inauguration ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, two months after Okpebholo’s All Progressives Congress (APC) secured a decisive victory.
At around 12:55 p.m., Okpebholo and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, took their oaths of office, followed by a celebratory tour around the stadium as supporters cheered. In his inaugural address, Okpebholo expressed gratitude to Edo citizens for their support, calling his election a “triumph of democracy.”
“Today marks a humbling moment,” he said, “made possible by all of you. You have entrusted me with the mandate to serve as governor, and we pledge to honor this trust. The welfare of our citizens is paramount.” Okpebholo outlined his administration’s priorities, promising to enhance state security, improve road infrastructure, and support small businesses to stimulate economic growth.
The ceremony saw dignitaries in attendance, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu, APC governors, Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, and former Edo governor Adams Oshiomhole.
Okpebholo’s victory over Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September 21 election concluded a heated political season. Okpebholo secured 291,667 votes, while Ighodalo received 247,274. Labour Party candidate Olumide Akpata placed third with 22,763 votes. Despite former Governor Obaseki’s backing, the PDP was unable to retain control of Edo State, marking the APC’s comeback. Analysts attribute this shift to internal discord within the PDP and the influential role of Oshiomhole in supporting Okpebholo’s campaign.
The PDP, however, has contested the results, alleging that Okpebholo’s victory does not reflect the people’s will. The party has pledged to challenge the outcome, arguing that the mandate was unfairly taken from them.
