Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the 2020 All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in Edo state governorship election, has congratulated Monday Okpebholo on his victory in the state’s 2024 gubernatorial election. Okpebholo, the APC candidate, secured 291,667 votes, defeating his closest challenger, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 247,655 votes. Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP) finished a distant third with 22,763 votes.
In a statement released on Monday, Ize-Iyamu expressed his confidence in the choice made by the people of Edo, stating that Okpebholo’s victory represents a new chapter of growth and prosperity for the state. “I extend my heartfelt congratulations on your well-deserved election as the executive governor of Edo State,” Ize-Iyamu said. “This is indeed a significant accomplishment, and I am confident that under your leadership, Edo State will witness a new era of growth, development, and prosperity.”
Ize-Iyamu went on to highlight the trust and support that Edo voters have placed in Okpebholo, calling his victory a clear testament to their belief in his leadership. “Your victory is a testament to the overwhelming support and trust the people of Edo State have placed in you. I thank them for their commitment to ensuring this success, and I have no doubt that you will honor that trust by delivering the uncommon transformation you have promised.”
The APC stalwart also extended his appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for creating a level playing field that enabled a fair and transparent election. “I would like to express my profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) for ensuring a level playing field for all political parties. This contributed to a free, fair, credible, and transparent process,” he added.
Ize-Iyamu commended the efforts of APC leaders at both the national and state levels, particularly praising the dedication of former Edo governor and senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole. “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the leaders and members of the Edo State chapter of the APC, led by Comrade Senator Adams Oshiomhole, for their unwavering dedication and tireless work. Their faith in your candidature has been vindicated through this resounding victory.”
In addition to recognizing Oshiomhole, Ize-Iyamu acknowledged the contributions of key party figures such as Senate President Godswill Akpabio, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and the Progressive Governors’ Forum, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma. “Let me acknowledge the unparalleled support of His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio, President of the Nigerian Senate, His Excellency Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), the distinguished members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum led by His Excellency Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, and the members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC. Their solidarity has been instrumental to the attainment of this historic feat.”
Ize-Iyamu further expressed hope for Okpebholo’s success in office, urging him to fulfill his campaign promises and lead the state into an era of unprecedented progress. He assured the people of Edo that their decision to support Okpebholo would be rewarded with effective governance that addresses their needs and aspirations.