Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has expressed confidence that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, will not succeed in their appeal against the verdict of the election petition tribunal.

Speaking at the Okaijesan Town Hall in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, during a celebration hosted by Edo Central leaders in honour of his tribunal victory, the governor described the opposition’s move to challenge the ruling as futile.

A statement released by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, on Friday quoted Okpebholo as saying:
“The opposition has been making noise, but the people of Edo spoke loudly on 21 September, 2024. They voted for the right candidate — Senator Monday Okpebholo. We defeated them at the Tribunal, and if they wish to go to the Appeal Court or even the Supreme Court, we’ll defeat them again.”

He accused the PDP of wasting public funds on legal proceedings, adding: “They have stolen enough money from Edo people. Now they’re wasting it on court cases. But they will never steal the mandate freely given to me and the All Progressives Congress (APC) by the people.”

RELATED STORY: Edo Election Confirms Okpebholo as Governor, Dismisses PDP’s Petition

Governor Okpebholo also unveiled plans to develop Esan land through road infrastructure, including the dualisation of the old Ekpoma–Ubiaja road, which he said would ease transport and boost economic activity.

“As soon as we won, we prioritised fixing roads across Edo State. If you go to Enewa now, it’s beginning to look like Abuja. We are transforming communities and ensuring free movement of vehicles,” he said.

He further promised that residents who applied for soft loans from the state government would start receiving funds within two weeks. “The money is ready, and names of interested applicants are being compiled,” he stated.

Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, who also addressed the gathering, described the tribunal ruling as a “double victory” for the people of Edo State. He said the tribunal’s affirmation of Okpebholo’s election reinforced the people’s will.

Meanwhile, the leader of the Arewa community in Esan land, Bawa Umar, praised the governor for his leadership, especially his swift response to the Uromi killings. Umar also commended Okpebholo’s visit to Kano to condole with the state’s governor, describing it as a gesture that reflected the governor’s peaceful and unifying nature.