Shaibu congratulates Opkebholo, urges magnanimity

The reinstated Deputy Governor of Edo, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has congratulated the governor-elect, Sen. Monday Opkebholo, on his victory in the keenly contested Saturday’s governorship election.

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Musa Ebomhiana quoted Shaibu as saying the Governor-elect should be magnanimous in victory and reach out to his opponents to foster inclusion and cooperation.

Shaibu said all acrimonies leading to the election should end with the announcement of results by the INEC.

He specifically called on governor Godwin Obaseki, Mr Asue Ighodalo, and all other candidates to set aside political differences and work with the governor-elect to advance the interests of the state.

“We have all fought a very good fight on the political turf, and in the process, may have offended one another.

“However, these were mistakes of the head, not of the heart, in the contest for power and position.

“Now that the election is over, we must unite and support the winner for a better and more prosperous Edo State,” he said.

Shaibu commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting a successful election, noting that it was one of the best off-season polls in recent times.

He acknowledged the police and other security agencies for their coordinated efforts to ensure maximum security before, during, and after the election.