#EdoDecides2024: Tinubu hails APC victory, commends peaceful election

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the All Progressives Congress candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on his victory in the Edo State governorship election held on Saturday.

Okpebholo was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission on Sunday, having emerged victorious over his rivals in the keenly contested election.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu lauded APC national leaders, Edo State leaders, and party governors for their efforts in securing the win.

He described the victory as a testament to the people’s endorsement of the APC’s progressive ideals, economic reform agenda, and commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.

The President urged Okpebholo to approach his victory with humility, calling on him to unite the people of Edo State and work towards its development.

“This victory is not an opportunity to gloat but a challenging call to service. I encourage you to reach out to your political rivals and foster unity in Edo State,” Tinubu advised.

Tinubu also commended the other candidates for their participation, noting that the peaceful nature of the election was a positive sign for Nigeria’s growing democracy.

He emphasized that peaceful political contests reflect the stability of the country’s democratic process.

For those dissatisfied with the election results, the President encouraged them to pursue legal avenues for redress.

He further applauded the people of Edo State for their orderly conduct during the election, which he said underscored the maturity of Nigeria’s democracy after 25 years of uninterrupted civilian rule.

The President further praised INEC and the security agencies for their roles in ensuring a successful, peaceful, and largely hitch-free election.

“INEC has once again demonstrated its commitment to organizing free and fair elections in our country,” he said.

NNPP’s Ajadi tasks INEC on transparency in Edo, Ondo polls

A Chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party, (NNPP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has declared that Nigerians are watching the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on its conducts of two off- cycle elections in Edo and Ondo States, saying that its conduct will be a pointer to what to expect in 2027 general elections.

Ajadi, maintained that INEC should be painstaking and handled the two off- cycle elections in the two states well, saying this will boost Nigerians’ confidence in the 2027 general elections.

Ajadi who was the Ogun State NNPP gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 general elections advised the electoral umpire to put its integrity at stake and conducts the two elections well to buoy the people’s interest in the next general elections in 2027.

Ajadi said people’s reactions in the coming weeks on the election will judge whether the election was well conducted or not.

In a statement on Sunday and made available to journalists, Ajadi said INEC needs to convince all Nigerians about its independence with the two off cycle elections.

According to him: “INEC’ s conduct in the two off cycle elections in Edo and Ondo States will be a pointer to what to expect in 2027 general elections.

“I am therefore, admonishing our electoral umpire to let the results in the two elections reflect the actual decisions of the electorate. INEC should showcase its independence like its name suggests.

“If the conduct and the results of the two elections failed to reflect people’s wishes, then the country is doomed. Bad conducts of the two elections may set the country on fire as those who are looking to use the 2027 general elections to remove those not doing well in governments at different level will feel disillusioned.

“God forbid. INEC should not damm people’s hope. Professor Mahmood Yakubu should write his name in gold with a good performance in the two elections.

“A situation where the courts upturn the results of our elections is not the best. INEC is the election umpire and its decision should be fair. INEC should wear a transparent apparel and display honesty and diligence in the conducts of off cycle elections as this would boost its image.

“I also implore the National Assembly to approve enough resources for INEC to get prepared for the 2027 elections”.

*FEDERAL ROAD SAFETY CORPS HONORS AND DECORATES JESAM MICHAEL AS SPECIAL MARSHAL*

In a grand and prestigious ceremony, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has honored and decorated Chief Jesam Michael, the CEO of Afriq Group of Companies, as a Special Marshal. The event, held at the Nigeria University Commission (NUC), saw an array of dignitaries, including Senator Dr. Mohammed Abba Aji, who was also among the honorees. The occasion was graced by high-ranking officials of the FRSC, distinguished guests, and the staff of Afriq Group of Companies, all celebrating this remarkable achievement.

Jesam Michael’s induction as a Special Marshal is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service, road safety, and community empowerment. His philanthropic contributions, particularly through his work with the Jesam Michael Afriq Foundation, have earned him widespread recognition. This latest honor as a Special Marshal further solidifies his legacy as a leader dedicated to making positive changes in society.

During the ceremony, Jesam Michael expressed his deep gratitude and reinforced his lifelong philosophy of giving back to society. Notably, he supported the FRSC’s efforts with a generous donation to ensure the success of the event and further promote road safety initiatives. In his speech, Jesam Michael highlighted the importance of selfless giving and community service, stating:

“Giving back to the community is part of my calling. I believe that every individual has a role to play in uplifting society. It’s not just about success in business, but about using what we have to help others. The society needs help, and it is our collective responsibility to provide it.”

His words resonated deeply with the audience, reflecting his passion for philanthropy and his vision for a safer, more united society. By serving as a Special Marshal, Jesam Michael is set to further contribute to the FRSC’s mission of reducing road accidents and ensuring safer roads for all Nigerians.

As CEO of Afriq Group of Companies and founder of the Jesam Michael Afriq Foundation, Jesam Michael has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to humanitarian causes. His foundation has empowered thousands of individuals through educational scholarships, healthcare support, and economic initiatives for small-scale businesses. His passion for community development is now extending to road safety, as he steps into his new role as a Special Marshal.

In accepting the honor, Jesam Michael pledged to work diligently with the FRSC and use his influence to promote road safety measures. His dedication to giving back to society remains unwavering, and his role as a Special Marshal will further amplify his impact on national and local levels.

Jesam Michael’s decoration as a Special Marshal represents a milestone in his journey of service, demonstrating how leadership, philanthropy, and a heart for the community can come together to create lasting change. With his induction, Nigeria’s roads are bound to become safer, and more lives will be positively impacted by his dedication to public service.