By Segun Adeyanju

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described Governor Monday Okpebholo’s electoral mandate as “divinely ordained to bring development and respite to Edo State.”

Akpabio made the remarks on Saturday while receiving Governor Okpebholo at his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media and Communication, Anietie Ekong, Akpabio said, “Every leadership comes from God, and He chooses whom He pleases. It has pleased Him to entrust you and the APC with the leadership of Edo State at this time. Edo people made no mistake in electing you.”

He praised Governor Okpebholo as a leader with a heart for the common man, expressing confidence that his administration would deliver transformation and progress.

Highlighting the Governor’s achievements in his first month in office, Akpabio commended his bold steps, noting they have “renewed the hope of Edo people and signaled a determination to drive development.”

Akpabio also emphasized the benefits of aligning Edo State with the federal government under the APC, describing it as a strategic move that strengthens the South-South region’s negotiating power at the national level.

“Edo State and the South-South are crucial to Nigeria’s development, contributing significantly to the nation’s resources. By aligning with the federal government, we can better represent our people and secure developmental gains,” he added.

Governor Okpebholo, in response, said his visit to Uyo was an opportunity to learn from Akpabio’s leadership experience. “I am here to seek advice and tap into his wealth of experience, which he has graciously shared,” the Governor stated.

Akpabio expressed optimism about the APC’s growing influence in the South-South, predicting more electoral victories that would reshape the region’s developmental trajectory.