Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki has appealed to citizens to remain calm and avoid violence or property damage following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s, INEC, declaration of Monday Okpebholo as the winner of Saturday’s governorship election.
In a broadcast, Obaseki urged peaceful acceptance, emphasizing that his party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, will seek redress for alleged electoral irregularities through democratic channels.
The election saw Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress, APC, secure 291,667 votes, surpassing Asue Ighodalo of the PDP, who garnered 247,274 votes. Despite the outcome, Obaseki reassured citizens that peace and justice will ultimately prevail.
He acknowledged the intense campaigns by various parties in the lead-up to the election, which culminated in the gubernatorial poll.
Obaseki’s call for calm reflects his commitment to maintaining stability in the state.
The PDP plans to challenge the election results through democratic means.
Read Also: Okpebholo of APC Declared Winner of Edo Governorship Election
The governor’s message serves as a reminder that peaceful resolution and adherence to democratic processes are essential.
In the face of electoral disagreements, Obaseki’s appeal for calm encourages citizens to prioritize peace and stability.
He said: “It is obvious to the least discerning, the amount of impunity and reckless disregard for processes and law that was displayed in this gubernatorial election
“But in the midst of this despair, I am urging all my fellow Edo citizens to maintain calm and not resort to violence and destruction of property in spite of this provocation.
“The attractive thing about democracy is the power it bestows on the people to choose who governs them. Therefore, when this power is blatantly seized from the people, it is not just a tragedy, but a travesty of democracy.
“Regrettably, the outcome of the September 21st governorship election appears to have daunted the spirit of many Edo people who feel powerless in the face of the brute force of the institutions that are supposed to protect them. It is therefore understandable that many people feel sad and aggrieved.
“But in the midst of this despair, I am urging all my fellow Edo citizens to maintain calm and not resort to violence and destruction of property in spite of this provocation.
“Peace and justice will always win in the end and this is my prescription to all the good people of Edo State who feel vexed and violated at this time.
“Clearly, it is obvious to the least discerning, the amount of impunity and reckless disregard for processes and law that was displayed in this gubernatorial election.
“In a democracy, there are safeguards for addressing grievances, and we hope that those affected will seek resolution for this blatant disregard of law and process.
“With this in mind, I implore all Edo people to go about their lawful businesses and rest assured of the commitment of our government to your wellbeing and security.”
