The immediate past Deputy President of the 9th Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has lauded Thursday's Supreme Court judgment that affirmed the election of Senator Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, as Governor of Edo State.
Reacting to the apex court's verdict, which definitively resolved the September 21, 2024, poll, Senator Omo-Agege declared that Nigeria's institutions are proving to be "not only resilient but fair and responsive."
"Despite the challenges of nationhood Nigeria faces, our institutions, especially those that manage the electoral process, have often proved that they are alive to the spirit of an accountable and constitutional democracy," Omo-Agege stated. He emphasised, "After the several layers of contests available to all aggrieved parties, the courts have scrupulously proved that when people vote, their votes count."
The former Deputy Senate President extended his congratulations to the newly affirmed Governor: "I congratulate Governor Monday Okpebholo on his resounding victory not just at the polls but also at the courts." He highlighted the swiftness of the judgment, noting, "The joy in the judgment is that it came in quick time, removing all distractions to delivering on his promises to the people of Edo State, and he can get down to work."
Omo-Agege further urged Governor Okpebholo to prioritise unity and the common good: "I urge Governor Okpebholo to run an inclusive government while advancing the common interests of the citizens of the State." He also called on all parties to cooperate, stating, "I also urge the aggrieved parties and the people of Edo State to cooperate fully with Governor Okpebholo and watch him deliver on his campaign promises." He concluded by noting that Okpebholo has "already shown signs of restoring the hopes and expectations of the people of Edo State since his inauguration."
The Supreme Court's five-member panel, led by Justice Mohammed Garba, dismissed the appeal by Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, finding it lacked merit. The appeal had sought to nullify the outcome of the governorship election held on September 21, 2024.
