Governor-elect Monday Okpebholo has affirmed his resolve to prioritise the development of Edo.

Mr Okpebholo made the pledge during a thank-you visit to Governor Hope Uzodimma at the Imo Government House, Owerri, on Wednesday.

He said, “We have contested the election. By His grace, we have won the election, and we are here to tell you that the next step is to develop Edo.”

Okpebholo extolled the leadership, brotherly and fatherly role Uzodimma played during the governorship poll in the state.

“The confidence I have in you is that what you can do, you can do it anytime. I urge you to again play the role of the father of progressives on the 12th of November when I will be sworn in as governor of Edo.” 

Mr Okpebholo was accompanied by former APC national chair Adams Oshiomhole, among other party chieftains.

Mr Uzodimma described the visit as “symbolic,” commending the governor-elect and his entourage for finding time to come.

“It is a thing of joy that the election came in Edo state, and our party won. I am particularly happy that Edo people and members of our party are happy with the victory at the election,” Mr Uzodimma said.

While congratulating Mr Okpebholo on his victory, the Imo governor prayed to God to grant him the wisdom to fulfil his campaign promises and give Edo a new look.

“Bring prosperity and development to Edo to justify the confidence reposed in you by the leaders and members of the party in the state and, indeed, the entire Edo indigenes.

“Go home with confidence with the support you have got from the people and the support you have got from President Bola Tinubu. What you will use to achieve that, you will not lack,” Mr Uzodimma said.

Mr Okpebholo emerged as the winner of the election with 291,667 votes to defeat the PDP’s Asue Ighodalo, who garnered 247,274 votes. The Labour Party candidate, Olumide Akpata, came third with 22,763 votes. 

(NAN)