The president of the Nigerian Senate and former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has described the mandate of the governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, as “divinely ordained by God to bring respite and development to Edo State.”

Akpabio made these remarks on Saturday during governor Okpebholo’s visit to his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

In a statement issued to newsmen yesterday in Abuja by his special assistant on media and communication, Mr Anietie Ekong, Akpabio credited Okpebholo’s electoral victory to divine intervention, emphasising that his emergence as governor is a turning point for Edo State.

“Your excellency, every leadership comes from God, and God chooses whom He pleases. It pleases Him at this time to choose you and the APC to lead the Edo people,” Akpabio said. “Edo people have not misplaced their trust in you. You are a man of action, and I am confident your leadership will bring development and transformation to the state.”

Akpabio praised the governor’s performance in his first month in office, noting that his administration has already renewed the hope of Edo residents and showcased its commitment to progress.

He further expressed gratitude to the people of Edo State for electing the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the September 2024 governorship election.

Akpabio highlighted the benefits of aligning the state with the federal government, noting that it strengthens the South-South region’s voice at the national level.

“Edo State is part of the South-South region and the Niger Delta, a predominantly minority area in Nigeria. To contribute meaningfully to nation-building, there is a need to align with the federal government,” he said.

He emphasised the region’s critical role in Nigeria’s economy, particularly as the source of the resources that have sustained the country for decades while lamenting its past underrepresentation at the national level.

“Under the APC administration, we saw the need to change the political narrative to ensure the South-South region has a stronger presence at the federal level,” he added.

Akpabio predicted that the APC’s growing influence in the South-South region would result in more electoral victories, further accelerating the region’s development.

Governor Okpebholo, in his response, expressed his admiration for the strides made in Akwa Ibom State under Akpabio’s leadership.

He noted that his visit was an opportunity to seek advice and draw inspiration from Akpabio’s experience.

“Seeing the development in Akwa Ibom, I have come to learn from my leader, seek his advice, and draw from his wealth of experience,” he stated.