On Tuesday, the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa, officiated the swearing-in ceremony of Senator Monday Okpebholo, marking his official induction as the sixth executive governor of the state. The event was a highly anticipated occasion, drawing a wide array of dignitaries, political leaders, and citizens who were eager to witness the beginning of Okpebholo’s governance.
Okpebholo’s appointment to the office follows the end of former Governor Godwin Obaseki’s tenure, which had seen various initiatives aimed at enhancing the state’s infrastructure, education system, and governance structures. Obaseki’s administration was noted for addressing significant challenges in the state while trying to position Edo as a progressive hub in the region.
With Okpebholo’s ascension, the state is now under new leadership, which inherits both the successes and the ongoing challenges from the previous administration. The new governor is expected to build upon Obaseki’s work, while bringing forward his own vision for the future of Edo State. His transition into office is seen as a crucial moment in the state’s political landscape, as citizens look forward to how he will navigate governance and introduce new policies.
Okpebholo won the September 21 Edo Governorship election with 291,667 votes, defeating his main rival, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who received 247,244 votes. The election was a fierce contest that saw significant political engagement, making Okpebholo’s victory an important milestone for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
As part of the swearing-in ceremony, the Chief Judge also administered the oath of office to the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Mr. Dennis Idahosa, who was accompanied by his wife and close associates. This event was also attended by family members, friends, political associates, APC leaders, and party supporters from within and outside the state, all of whom gathered to show their support for the new leadership.
The inauguration ceremony followed a separate event where former Governor Godwin Obaseki, who was absent at the inauguration of his successor, held a valedictory session at the Government House in Benin City. During the valedictory session, Obaseki dissolved his cabinet, which consisted of commissioners and special advisers, acknowledging their efforts and contributions to his administration. He praised the members of the State Executive Council for their work in helping to implement his vision for the state, ensuring that Edo was able to make significant strides in several key areas during his time in office. The valedictory session was a bittersweet moment as it marked the end of an era under his leadership while signaling a new chapter for the state with Okpebholo’s administration taking over.