Monday Okpebholo was inaugurated on Tuesday as the governor of Edo State, succeeding Godwin Obaseki after his eight-year tenure. The swearing-in ceremony took place at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, just two months after Okpebholo’s All Progressives Congress (APC) secured victory in the September 21 election.

Okpebholo, joined by his deputy Dennis Idahosa, took the oath of office around 12:55 pm, followed by a ceremonial tour in an open van, acknowledging cheers from supporters. In his inaugural address, the new governor expressed gratitude to Edo’s citizens for their support, calling his victory a “triumph of democracy.”

“Today, you have officially given me the mandate to preside over our dear state as governor for the next four years,” Okpebholo stated, pledging to focus on security, infrastructure, and support for small businesses. “The welfare of our citizens is a top priority.”

The event attracted prominent dignitaries, including Vice President Kashim Shettima representing President Bola Tinubu, several APC governors, Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, and former Edo governor Adams Oshiomhole. This inauguration followed an intense election season, which saw former political allies Obaseki and Oshiomhole on opposing sides.

In the election, Okpebholo defeated PDP’s Asue Ighodalo by polling 291,667 votes against Ighodalo’s 247,274, with Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata securing 22,763 votes. Despite Obaseki’s backing, the PDP was unable to retain its hold on Edo State, which analysts attribute partly to internal rifts within the party.

The PDP has, however, challenged the results, alleging that the victory was marred by irregularities and does not reflect the will of Edo voters. The party has vowed to contest the outcome in court.

Governor Okpebholo’s inauguration marks a new chapter for Edo State, with promises of economic development and enhanced security under his administration.