Senator Monday Okpebholo, the newly elected governor of Edo State, made a swift visit to the State House after receiving his certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the winner of the September 21 governorship election.
Accompanied by top members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Okpebholo knelt before President Bola Tinubu, thanking him for his support in securing victory amid growing political controversies over the election’s outcome.
The visit, attended by several APC governors and party leaders, highlighted the gratitude Okpebholo showed to Tinubu, who had earlier vowed to deliver Edo State to the APC.
Alongside Okpebholo were the APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, and governors from Imo, Kwara, Kogi, Ogun, and Kaduna states.
Adams Oshiomhole, the influential Senator representing Edo North, and Deputy Governor-elect Philip Shaibu, also joined the delegation.
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However, Okpebholo’s expression of gratitude comes as debates swirl around the integrity of the election process. Critics from opposition parties and independent observers have raised questions regarding allegations of vote manipulation and the overwhelming influence of federal power in Edo’s election.
Political analysts have pointed to the visible role of President Tinubu and APC heavyweights, including Oshiomhole, as central factors in the election outcome, sparking concerns about the democratic process in the state.
Speaking to reporters, political analyst Dr. Musa Bello expressed concerns about the implications of such a public display of allegiance.
“While paying respect to a leader is part of the political culture, the optics of a newly elected governor immediately kneeling before the president raises questions about autonomy. It reflects the power dynamics in Nigerian politics, where federal influence plays a decisive role in state elections.”
Dr. Grace Ogiemwonyi, a lecturer in political science, echoed these sentiments, stating, “Edo’s election result was not a surprise, given Tinubu’s earlier promise to deliver the state to the APC.
However, this ritualistic homage might deepen suspicions of undue influence. Edo citizens deserve a governor who serves their interests independently of federal pressure.”
Despite these controversies, Senator Okpebholo has remained firm in his loyalty to the president, crediting his victory to the united efforts of the APC.
In his remarks, he promised to govern Edo with a focus on development and inclusive governance.
“I am deeply grateful to President Tinubu and the APC leadership for their support. This is a victory for the people of Edo, and I pledge to bring the benefits of progressive governance to all citizens.”
As the political dust settles, the legitimacy of Okpebholo’s mandate is likely to remain under scrutiny.
Analysts expect that post-election litigations may arise, and the conduct of the election could become a critical talking point in Nigeria’s broader political discourse.