From Tony Osauzo, Benin
President Bola Tinubu has said the election of Monday Okpepbolo and Dennis Idahosa as Governor and Deputy Governor, respectively, is not a victory for one man but a victory for the entire state.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented the president at the swearing-in ceremony at the Dr Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, said that the powerful endorsement of the people’s collective will is what democracy means, just as he added that every voice contributing to a choice made will be respected.
“Over 25 years into our democracy, we have evolved, and today’s Inauguration is another testimony that no individual can hold the collective will of the people,” he stated.
“It is often said that an honest leader is going to see the legacy of problems to inherit. However, what truly defines a leader is not the magnitude of his challenges but the sincerity and courage to confront them.
“It is not fair that we share the future of Edo State but our commitment to the common good of the people, both the supporters and opponents.
“Though it may seem daunting to take the risk of power at such a time, I assure you that this is the best moment to serve one’s people. For in these uncertain times, the people demand true leadership, stronger than ever before.
“The people of Edo have placed their trust in Monday Okpepbolo and Hon. Dennis Idahosa, leaders who have demonstrated characters and results through their tireless dedication to the development of Edo State, he added.
The President, while noting that the people have pointed to the future they desire “for this great state, and you have chosen the captains of this journey,” reminded the governor and his deputy that “a leader must be diligent to overcome obstacles in order to deliver the promises he made to the people.”
He also cautioned, “Election is over and any atmosphere that nourishes and acts fascism mentality must be dismantled instantly as some may want to disrupt peace after the will of the people been expressed.
“When we took office, we knew that sincerity of our economy, we demand serious reform of fiscal and monetary policy and stability of this nation. We have embarked on these reforms with determination to lay a foundation for opportunities.
“Today, we see leaders of integrity who laid this foundation to benefit the people. I am proud Edo State has chosen such men to lead the charge forward. The journey before us transcends partisan lines.
“We need people that would render service to our people. And no political party has managed the affairs of unity and purpose of our people better than the APC since we take charge.
“A house divided cannot stand. And the APC’s commitment to harmonious governance has assured that we are ready to lead. This is why we are here. Because the people recognised in us dedication but not only to political victory but to the nation’s progress.
“Today is without a doubt the dawn of a new era for Edo State and I promise that this is not an empty promise. Senator Okpepbolo has committed to building Edo State you envisaged, a place where jobs would be plenty, where education is accessible, where infrastructure is within the reach of every citizen. He understands the pains of the people and has the vision to bring those dreams to light.
“I stand before you in confidence knowing that we have weather the hard days as a nation. We have pulled back from the brink of economic collapse and now we are stepping forward into time of growth. Edo State, central to this progress,” President Tinubu stated.
