INEC Declares APC’s Monday Okpebholo Winner of Edo Governorship Election

INEC Declares APC’s Monday Okpebholo Winner of Edo Governorship Election

After months of intense political activity in Edo State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the winner of the governorship election held on Saturday, September 21, 2024.

Okpebholo, 54, secured a total of 291,667 votes to defeat Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 247,274 votes, and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP), who finished third with 22,763 votes. Fourteen other candidates participated in the election but fell short of the top three contenders.

INEC’s Returning Officer for the poll, Prof. Faruk Kuta, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, declared the results on Sunday at 9:27 PM in the state capital, Benin City. Kuta announced that Okpebholo met the legal requirements to be declared governor-elect, eliciting cheers from APC supporters at the collation centre.

10 Key Facts About Newly Elected Edo Governor, Monday Okpebholo:

1. Birth and Family: Born in 1970 in Uromi, Edo State, Okpebholo grew up in a humble family that emphasised integrity and hard work.
2. Education: He began his schooling in Uromi and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Benin. He also holds a Master’s in Public Administration and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics from the University of Ibadan.
3. Entrepreneurship: Okpebholo is a successful businessman with investments spanning hospitality, construction, oil and gas, and agriculture.
4. Philanthropy: Through his Monday Okpebholo Foundation, he has provided scholarships, healthcare, and vocational training to underprivileged communities.
5. Family: Okpebholo is a family man, married with four children, and deeply rooted in Edo State.
6. Political Journey: His political career began in 2003 when he was elected to the House of Representatives under the PDP, advocating for rural development and agriculture.
7. Advocacy: He has consistently focused on legislative reforms, agriculture, and rural empowerment throughout his political career.
8. Religious Affiliation: Okpebholo is a devout Christian and an active member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
9. Business and Politics: His contributions to business and politics, as well as his commitment to marginalised communities, have earned him widespread respect.
10. Vision as Governor: Okpebholo’s governorship campaign centred on driving economic empowerment, development, and sustainable growth for all Edo State residents.

The victory signals a new chapter in Edo State politics as Okpebholo prepares to implement his vision for a more prosperous and inclusive future.