In a recent statement, Solomon Okoduwa, the former Senior Special Assistant to Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, has hailed the newly elected Governor Monday Okpebholo as a divine blessing for the state.

Okoduwa expressed that Okpebholo’s victory represents a triumph not just for his party but for all residents of Edo State.

He emphasized that Okpebholo’s rise to power serves as a form of retribution for Obaseki, reflecting what he described as God’s judgment against the outgoing governor.

According to Okoduwa, the circumstances surrounding Okpebholo’s election signify a punishment for Obaseki’s perceived wrongdoings, including his alleged harsh treatment of returnees and other Edo indigenes.

“Okpebholo’s character and approach to governance are a testament to his divine mission,” Okoduwa stated.

He praised Okpebholo’s humility and ability to engage with the community without exhibiting arrogance.

This connection to the people, he noted, was a significant factor in the recent election, where many returnees rallied in support of Okpebholo, demonstrating their discontent with Obaseki’s leadership.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently announced Okpebholo as the victor of Saturday’s governorship election, where he represented the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The Returning Officer, Prof. Faruk Adamu Kuta, confirmed that Okpebholo secured a total of 291,667 votes, defeating the Peoples Democratic Party candidate Asue Ighodalo, who garnered 247,274 votes.

Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party came in third with 22,763 votes.

Okoduwa’s remarks highlight a growing sentiment among many Edo residents, who view the election results as a necessary shift toward a more compassionate and responsive governance.

His comments reflect a broader narrative of change and renewal that many hope will accompany Okpebholo’s administration.

Sam Amadi, the Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thoughts, has recently voiced strong criticism of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), labelling it as a significant obstacle to credible elections in Nigeria.

In a statement posted on X, Amadi pointed out that opposition political parties often hold the misconception that INEC can be their ally in rigging future elections.

He questioned why these parties have not united to advocate for urgent constitutional reforms that would replace INEC with a new, independent body, as previously suggested by the Uwais Commission.

Amadi expressed his frustration, stating, “The real problem with elections in Nigeria is INEC.

Why can’t opposition politicians come together and demand quick constitutional amendments to end INEC and create a new body appointed as Uwais recommended? Why? Do they believe INEC will rig for them next time? Foolishness.”

His comments come in the wake of the recent governorship election in Edo State, which has been marred by serious allegations.

Observers have raised concerns over vote-buying and claims that INEC officials colluded with politicians to manipulate the election results.

The ongoing debates surrounding the integrity of INEC and the electoral process in Nigeria highlight the urgent need for reform and accountability in the country’s political landscape.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has labelled Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate from 2023, as a persistent complainer who refuses to accept electoral outcomes that do not favour him or his party.

Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, made these remarks during an appearance on Arise TV.

He criticized Obi’s ongoing disputes regarding the recent governorship election in Edo State, asserting that the former presidential candidate has been in denial since the 2023 elections.

Morka emphasized that Obi’s views on the Edo election hold no significance.

“Peter Obi is a serial complainer who will not accept the results of any election that does not align with his interests or those of his candidates,” Morka stated.

“Since the 2023 election, he has consistently denied the outcome, and now he has turned his attention to undermining the legitimacy of the Edo State election.”

Morka encouraged those who are dissatisfied with the election results, such as the Labour Party’s gubernatorial candidate, Olumide Akpata, and the Peoples Democratic Party’s Asue Ighodalo, to pursue legal action if they believe there are grounds for challenge.

He criticized the opposition for spreading what he described as unfounded allegations without providing substantial evidence.

According to the election results, Akpata received 22,763 votes, while Monday Okpebholo of the APC won decisively with 291,667 votes, followed by Ighodalo, who garnered 247,274 votes.

Morka concluded that any claims made in the court of public opinion must be substantiated by tangible evidence rather than mere headlines.