‘Edo people have spoken,’ Reps congratulate Okpebholo, Idahosa

The House of Representatives has congratulated Edo State Governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo, on his victory in the Saturday governorship election.

The House also congratulated the deputy gov-elect, Dennis Idahosa, a lawmaker representing Ovia Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Healthcare Services in the 10th Assembly.

Okpebholo and Idahosa of the All Progressives Congress were declared winners by the Independent National Electoral Commission after polling a total of 291,667 votes to beat the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party, Asue Ighodalo and Olumide Akpata who garnered 247,274 and 22,763 votes respectively to finish in second and third places.

The congratulatory message was contained in a statement issued by the spokesman for the House, Akin Rotimi, on Monday.

Rotimi quoted the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, as describing the election as a reflection of the choice made by voters in Edo State.

“Edo people have spoken with their votes, reflecting their desire for positive change and progress. The Speaker lauds the election of the deputy governor-elect, Mr Idahosa, a sitting member of the House,” he said, noting that this victory highlights the increasing role of parliamentarians in shaping governance and politics across Nigeria.

Abbas urged Okpebholo and Idahosa to work together to serve the common good of the people of Edo State, urging the duo to “remain good ambassadors of the National Assembly.”

He also urged them to use their new positions to champion policies that would benefit the people and foster development in the oil-rich State.

“As the newly elected leaders prepare to assume office, the House calls for magnanimity in victory. Speaker Abbas urged Senator Okpebholo and Mr Idahosa to extend a hand of fellowship to their opponents, fostering unity and peace in Edo State.

“He also urged the people of Edo to remain calm and respect the democratic outcome, which reflects the collective decision of the majority.

“The House of Representatives remains committed to promoting democracy and good governance and looks forward to the positive contributions of Senator Okpebholo and Mr Idahosa in their new roles,” the statement added.