President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasized that democracy provides the best opportunity for electing leaders, as demonstrated by the people of Edo State. He made this statement at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, where Senator Monday Okpebholo was sworn in as Edo State governor. Mr. Dennis Idahosa also took office as deputy governor before a packed arena.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented the President, led the dignitaries, which included governors, federal and state lawmakers, leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and all categories of leaders and leading lights of Edo State.
The President urged Okpebholo to stay focused and deliver the dividends of democracy to the people.
He also advised him to treat lawmakers and the legislative arm of government with dignity and respect.
The President said: “A strong and independent legislature is essential for achieving democratic good governance.”
For the best part of his tenure, immediate past Governor Godwin Obaseki declined to inaugurate many members of the House of Assembly.
The President added: “Democracy allows the people to express their wishes and make decisions.
Today, we gather to celebrate democracy in its truest form.
This joyful cheer, this resounding call for a brighter tomorrow, is what democracy sounds like. The will of the people proudly sponsors this gathering, and no barrier is strong enough to stop the force of those who have chosen their leaders from among a multitude of options.
“While some may seek to disrupt peace after the will of the people has been expressed, every elected leader has a duty that extends to all, including those who may have voted differently or ran against them.
The election of Senator Monday Okpebholo and Rt. Honourable Dennis Idahosa as Governor and Deputy Governor is not the victory of one man but the achievement of an entire state – a powerful endorsement of your collective will.
“This is what democracy means: every vote holding equal weight, every voice contributing to a choice made with trust and vision.
“It is often said that an honest leader is quick to see the legacy of problems they inherit. However, what truly defines such a leader is not the magnitude of these challenges, but the sincerity and courage to confront them.
When we took office, we knew that securing the future of our economy would demand serious reform—reform to stave off looming fiscal and monetary threats to the stability of this great nation.
“Today, we seek leaders of integrity who will use this foundation to benefit the people. I am proud that Edo State has chosen such men to lead the charge forward.
“I call on you to diligently work to enhance the living standards of the people of Edo State and make a meaningful impact during your tenure.
This is a historic return of Edo State to APC governance. The administration must justify the confidence placed in him and the APC by fostering true democracy and effective governance in the state.
“Attempts to undermine the legislative branch have hampered its effectiveness for much of its tenure.
“INEC has proven its commitment to democracy, and I urge them to strive for even greater excellence in the Ondo election”.
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