The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Monday Okpebholo, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner of the Edo State gubernatorial election held on Saturday.
The announcement was made on Sunday by the Returning Officer for the election, Prof. Faruq Adamu Kuta, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna, at the INEC collation centre in Benin City.
According to Prof. Kuta, Okpebholo secured a total of 291,667 votes, winning 11 out of the 18 local government areas (LGAs) in the state.
Ighodalo of the PDP garnered 247,274 votes, coming in second, while Akpata of the LP received 22,763 votes, placing third.
Here are 10 key points about Senator Monday Okpebholo, the newly elected governor of Edo State:
- Born in 1970 in Uromi, Edo State, Okpebholo was raised in a modest family that instilled values of integrity and diligence, which have greatly influenced his life and career.
- Okpebholo’s education journey began in local schools in Uromi before he advanced to the University of Benin, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics. He furthered his education with a Master’s in Public Administration and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics from the University of Ibadan, demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning.
- Beyond politics, Okpebholo is an entrepreneur with investments in hospitality, construction, oil and gas, and agriculture.
- Through the Monday Okpebholo Foundation, he has dedicated resources to charitable work, including scholarships, healthcare services, and vocational training for underprivileged communities.
- Okpebholo is deeply connected to his family, maintaining strong ties to his roots in Edo State. He is married with four children.
- Okpebholo’s political journey started in 2003 when he was elected to the House of Representatives under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
- Throughout his political tenure, Okpebholo has been a vocal advocate for issues such as agriculture, rural development, and legislative reforms, working tirelessly to represent the needs of his constituents.
- Okpebholo is a devout Christian and an active member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
- Okpebholo’s dedication to excellence in business and politics, along with his efforts to promote inclusive growth and support marginalised communities, have earned him widespread respect and recognition.
- As governor, Okpebholo envisions a prosperous, inclusive, and thriving Edo State. His campaign focused on driving development, economic empowerment, and sustainable growth to benefit all residents and future generations.
