The President of the Nigerian Senate and former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has described the electoral mandate of Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State as “divinely ordained by God to bring respite and development to Edo State.”
Akpabio made these remarks on Saturday when he hosted Governor Okpebholo at his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. He attributed Okpebholo’s victory in the September 2024 governorship election to God’s divine choice, asserting that the Edo State governor has been appointed by God at this pivotal time to lead the state toward progress and transformation.
“Every leadership comes from God, and God chooses whom He pleases. It pleases Him at this time to choose you and the APC to lead Edo people,” Akpabio said. He commended Okpebholo as a man of action, noting his ability to connect with the common people of Edo State. “Edo people have not misplaced their votes in choosing you. You have the heart of the common man, and I am confident your leadership will bring development and transformation to your state,” he added.
Akpabio also praised the bold steps taken by the Okpebholo administration in its first month, stressing that the governor has renewed the hope of the Edo people, giving them a clear insight into the administration’s commitment to development and progress. He further thanked the people of Edo for choosing the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the September 2024 governorship election.
The Senate President emphasized the significance of Edo State aligning with the federal government under the APC, noting that this will strengthen the state’s voice in national affairs. “Aligning with the Government at the center brings many positives for Edo and the South South region, making the zone a stronger negotiating voice at the federal level,” Akpabio explained.
Akpabio highlighted the importance of linking with the federal government to ensure the South South region plays a significant role in nation-building. He noted that the region’s resources have been vital to the country’s economy but lamented that, in terms of representation at the national level, the region has often been underrepresented. He cited Dr. Goodluck Jonathan’s presidency as a rare exception, where the South South region enjoyed substantial national influence.
Reflecting on his own political journey, Akpabio explained that his decision to move to the APC was driven by the need to better represent the South South region and ensure that its people had a voice at the national level. He also expressed confidence that the APC is poised for further electoral victories in the South South, which he believes will positively change the region’s developmental trajectory.
Governor Okpebholo, in turn, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to learn from Akpabio’s extensive experience in governance and politics. He explained that his visit to Akwa Ibom was to seek advice and ideas from Akpabio, especially in regard to the ongoing development of Akwa Ibom State.
“I have come to learn from my leader, seek his advice, and draw from his wealth of experience. He has graciously advised me,” Governor Okpebholo said.
The meeting between the two leaders marks a significant moment of collaboration and mentorship, as Governor Okpebholo seeks to continue the path of development in Edo State.