Senator Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State, has strongly disagreed with recent statements made by Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections. Obi had questioned the credibility of the September 21, 2024, governorship election in Edo State, alleging that it was neither free nor fair. Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, responded, stating that Obi’s remarks were baseless and disrespectful to the people of Edo State, who exercised their democratic rights peacefully and transparently.
Okpebholo emphasised that the election was conducted with the highest standards of integrity, a fact confirmed by both local and international observers. He pointed out that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had ensured a fair and equal playing field throughout the process, which was widely recognised as credible.
The Governor expressed disappointment that someone of Obi’s stature would undermine the democratic process with unfounded allegations, suggesting that the statements were politically motivated rather than based on legitimate concerns. Okpebholo called on Obi to retract his comments and to respect the people’s mandate. He also urged Obi to engage in constructive dialogue that would benefit the nation’s democratic principles, instead of resorting to divisive rhetoric.
Governor Okpebholo further affirmed that the peace and stability of Edo State were of utmost importance, and he would not allow anyone to disrupt the state’s democratic progress. He stated that the people of Edo had spoken clearly through the election, and their decision must be respected.
