Almost three weeks after the emergence of Senator Monday Okpebholo as governor-elect in Edo, his colleagues in the upper legislative chamber of the National Assembly and journalists covering the Red Chamber, have continued to turn in their congratulatory messages, while setting an agenda for the incoming administration.

On September 22nd, 2024, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Okpebholo winner of the Edo State governorship election.

He defeated his closest rival of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Asue Ighodalo, with about 50,000 votes. The candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Olumide Akpata, came in a distant third position, with a paltry 21,000 votes.

In separate letters to the governor-elect, the senators and newsmen described his victory as a true reflection of the will of Edo people.

Former Abia State governor and senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, in a letter addressed to Senator Okpebholo, remarked: “Your emergence as the Governor-Elect of Edo State is a testament to your exceptional leadership qualities, unwavering dedication, and the trust the people have placed in you.

“As a fellow member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), I am thrilled to see our party’s vision for a better Nigeria take shape under your governance. Your campaign slogan, which resonated with the masses, will undoubtedly guide your administration’s efforts to rebuild and uplift Edo State.

“Your victory is not just a triumph for our party but also a demonstration of the people’s faith in your ability to drive positive change. I urge you to remain committed to your campaign promises, ensuring that every citizen benefits from your tenure.

“As you prepare to assume office, stay connected to the people; listen to their concerns, address their needs, and be accountable. Foster unity and inclusivity. Bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds to build a stronger, more harmonious Edo State.

“Prioritise development. Focus on infrastructure, education, healthcare, and the economy. Lead with integrity. Uphold transparency, accountability, and good governance.

“Engage in strategic planning. Develop a comprehensive roadmap for Edo State’s growth. Leverage technology Harness innovation to drive efficiency and progress. Empower the youth. Create opportunities for education, employment, and entrepreneurship.”

Senate committee chairman on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, noted: “I join millions of your admirers, your family, our distinguished colleagues, political associates, well-meaning party members and Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), to extend our very warm congratulations to you on your landslide victory at the polls as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as the Governor-Elect of Edo State.

“I humbly implore you to work on bringing an agenda that will bring Edo people together, unite them; foster development, and benefit the people of Edo State irrespective of Party affiliations.

“It is my prayer that you will live-up to the expectations of the electorate that voted for you. I fervently believe that you will strive to continue to enjoy the confidence which the good people of Edo State have reposed in you, and that you would approach the office of Governor of Edo State with the required hard work, dedication, prudence, transparency and accountability which the office demands.”

In another letter sent to the governor-elect by over 100 journalists covering the activities of the Senate, and signed by the chairman, James Itodo, and the secretary, Taiye Odewale respectively, said Okpebholo’s emergence is critical at a time like this.

The letter read: “We on behalf of the entire members of the Senate Press Corps, joyfully congratulate you sir, on your well-deserved victory from the gubernatorial election conducted in Edo State.

“Your emergence as Governor Elect of Edo State, the heartbeat of the Nation at this critical time, is a welcome development in terms of required good governance for the people of the state. We at the Senate Press Corps, wish you very successful tenure on assumption of office and passionate to contribute and be part of your success story as Executive Governor of Edo State.

“Mandate given to you sir, by Edolites from the election as their New Governor, is a very popular one as reflected in the clear margin of victory between you and your closest rival (291,667 votes to 247, 274 votes).”