Obaseki Says Edo People Supported Him to Defeat Godfatherism
. Ize–Iyamu: I’m Studying Election Results
Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has celebrated his victory at the Saturday governorship election in the state, saying the collective will of the people made it possible for his triumph over godfatherism.
Obaseki defeated his closest rival, Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), polling a total of 307,955 votes against APC’s 223,619 votes.
He commended the people of Edo State and supporters of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for their display of immense courage and support in the face of threats, intimidation and brutalisation as he emerged victorious in the Saturday gubernatorial election in the state.
Obaseki praised President Muhammadu Buhari, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other stakeholders who participated in the conduct of the gubernatorial election for ensuring a free, peaceful and credible poll in the state.
However, Ize-Iyamu has also commented on his electoral defeat, saying he’s studying the results along with other party members and would announce the next line of action soon.
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Obaseki, in his appreciation message in Benin City on Sunday, said: “The great people of Edo State have spoken. They have spoken loud and clear. We thank God Almighty and give Him all the glory for this victory.
“Thank you, President Muhammadu Buhari, for defending our democracy and allowing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agencies to perform their constitutional functions without interference.
“INEC and the security services have shown to Nigerians and the world that they are capable of conducting free and credible elections.
“Words fail me in saluting our teeming supporters who displayed immense courage in the face of threats, intimidation and brutalisation. The collective will of Edo people made it possible for this triumph over godfatherism.
“I am eternally grateful to my party the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and my brother governors not only for giving me the umbrella during my political storm but for the hard work which has brought me back to office.
“Our success has reinforced my belief that there is nothing we cannot achieve as a people if we pull forces together and collectively call on God for support.
“I reiterate that working with my Deputy, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, we are committed to Making Edo Great Again. Thank you for your support.”
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But, speaking on his electoral loss, Ize-Iyamu appreciated his supporters for enduring what he described as many evils including being prevented from exercising their franchise during the Saturday governorship election in Edo State.
According to him, “I hereby thank and appreciate my teeming supporters, who have had to endure many evils including being prevented from exercising their franchise, for their support and determination during the election process.
“I assure you all that I am studying the results along with other party members and will announce the next line of action soon.
“God bless you all.”
Idowu Sowunmi
