President Bola Tinubu has said that before the governorship election took place in Edo State last week Saturday, September 21, he had already made his calculation and arrived at a conclusion that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would emerge winner.
”Never mind the noise makers. I do a lot of statistical sampling and results. When you hear politicians saying ‘all politics is local’, you must respect that notion.
”When you see the stability in the Edo North senatorial district, we see a man that won the Central senatorial district and a candidate who has won a seat in the south senatorial district; we did a match- which turned out to be a winning match,” he said.
President Tinubu made the remarks when he received in audience, at the presidential villa today, September 26, the Edo State Governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, along with his deputy, Rep. Dennis Idahosa and the leadership of the APC. They presented their certificates of return to the President.
Tinubu acknowledged the role played by the former Edo state governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, the progressive governors and the APC leadership in the successful outcome of the elections.
”I saw Adams Oshiomhole radiating in joy… sincerely, the governors showed up in Edo, they impressed me. “They defended the party. They worked hard for the party.”
He advised the incoming Governor to prioritize the development of the state, even as he assured him of the full support of the Federal Government and the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF).
President Tinubu emphasised the importance of good governance and delivering results to the people of Edo State.
‘’Governor-elect, you can now face the task of development. We are here to work with you. You have seen the progressive governors of APC. They are truly progressive. Work with them. Learn the ropes, and I believe you are up to the task.”
The President reminded the Governor-elect that democracy is difficult, particularly in emerging democracies and economies like Nigeria, adding: “if you hear complaints from places like America, you know how difficult it is to navigate democracy. But it remains the best form of government. ”
Tinubu described the Governor-elect and his deputy as a ”good symbol of people ordained by God to work together.
”You started as rivals and ended us as partners. You are a symbol of good understanding in politics; the man at our party’s helm has been through it before.
”In Kano, he was a front runner, became a second runner, and became a deputy before he eventually became a governor.”
President Tinubu commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agencies for ensuring a peaceful and organised election, with no reports of violence or disturbances.
”I must thank the security agencies. There was no bloodshed, no riot, people voted and went back to their houses in peace, and the fears dissipated instantly.”
The President called on the party leadership and membership to remain united and focused on achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda.
