Governor Okpebholo Rebuke Peter Obi Over Remarks on Edo Election

By OSEHOBO OFURE,Benin City

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has rejected recent assertions made by Mr. Peter Obi regarding the integrity of the September 21st governorship election in the state.

The former Labour Party presidential candidate had criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Nigeria’s democratic process, particularly targeting the Edo governorship election, which he described as undemocratic. He further claimed that the true winner of the election is widely known among Nigerians.

In a public address, Obi said, “Let’s tell ourselves the truth. Nigeria is not a democratic country,” pointing to the Edo election as an example. “The election that happened in Edo, was it democratic? Everybody knows who won the Edo election.”

However, in response, Governor Okpebholo, through his Chief Press Secretary Mr. Fred Itua, dismissed Obi’s claims, stating that the election was not only free and fair but also a true reflection of the will of the Edo people, who exercised their democratic rights in a peaceful and transparent manner.

The statement added, “The Edo State Governorship Election was conducted in accordance with the highest standards of electoral integrity, as observed by both local and international observers. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ensured a level playing field, and the process was widely acknowledged as credible.

“Mr. Obi’s pronouncements are not supported by any credible evidence and appear to be driven by political expediency rather than a genuine concern for democratic principles. It is regrettable that a figure of his standing would choose to undermine the democratic process with such baseless allegations.”

The Edo State Government, which urged Mr. Obi to retract his statements and respect the mandate freely given by the people, called on him to contribute constructively to the nation’s democratic discourse rather than engage in divisive rhetoric.

Cautioning that the peace and stability of Edo State are paramount, the statement concluded that Governor Okpebholo will not allow anyone to jeopardize the hard-earned democratic gains made so far. “The people of Edo State have spoken, and their voice must be respected,” it affirmed.