Supreme Court judgement: Okpebholo reacts, extends olive branch to opposition

By Jethro Ibileke

Governor Monday Okpebholo has reacted to the judgement of the Supreme Court that affirmed his election as Edo State governor.

Asue Ighodalo, the PDP candidate in the September 21, 2024 governorship election in the State had asked the apex court to overturn the judgments of the lower courts, which had upheld INEC’s declaration of Okpebholo as winner.

However, the five-man panel led by Justice Mohammed Garba Lawal, dismissed the appeal for lacking merit.

It held that the appellants could not establish their claims of election non-compliance, unlawful votes, and that Monday Okpebholo was not duly elected.

Reacting in statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo noted that the victory signals the beginning of a fresh chapter rooted in unity, inclusiveness, and accelerated development.

Read the full text of the statement:

“The Supreme Court of Nigeria today delivered a landmark judgment affirming Senator Monday Okpebholo as the duly elected Governor of Edo State, bringing to a conclusive end all legal contestations arising from the 2024 Governorship Election.

“This definitive verdict is not merely a legal triumph—it is a solemn reaffirmation of the sacred mandate freely given by the people of Edo State. It signals the beginning of a fresh chapter rooted in unity, inclusiveness, and accelerated development.”

“His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, extends profound gratitude to the judiciary for its courage and fidelity to justice, and to the great people of Edo State for their unflinching support, patience, and faith in democracy.

“He views this moment not as a personal victory but as a shared triumph for every Edo citizen, regardless of political, ethnic, or religious affiliation.

“Governor Okpebholo renews his vow to lead with humility, compassion, and accountability. His administration remains fully committed to its developmental blueprint—prioritizing security, infrastructure, education, agriculture, healthcare, youth empowerment, and job creation. The focus remains clear: to deliver tangible benefits that uplift lives and restore confidence in public leadership.

“In the true spirit of statesmanship, Governor Okpebholo extends a sincere olive branch to all his opponents and members of the opposition. The elections are over; the real work of governance and healing must begin.

“He urges political leaders across party lines to rise above division and contribute constructively to the task of building a greater Edo State.

“Constructive criticism and diverse perspectives will always be welcomed, but they must be rooted in a sincere desire to see Edo thrive.

“Edo belongs to all of us. The time has come to set aside our differences, close ranks, and march forward—united in purpose, anchored in peace, and driven by a shared vision of progress.

“Let this victory ignite a new era of unity, dialogue, and impact-driven governance. Let history remember this moment as the point when Edo chose collaboration over conflict, vision over vendetta, and service over self.”