Wike to Okpebholo: Don’t be distracted by politicians seeking power through back door

Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), has congratulated Monday Okpebholo, governor of Edo, on his victory at the election tribunal.

On Wednesday, the tribunal upheld Okpebholo’s victory in the September 2024 governorship poll, while dismissing the petition of Asue Ighodalo, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the election.

In a statement on Wednesday signed by Lere Olayinka, his senior special assistant on public communications and social media, Wike described the ruling as a reaffirmation of the mandate freely given to Okpebholo by the Edo people.

He urged the governor to remain focused on governance and not be distracted by those who “are only interested in getting power through the back door”.

The minister said the tribunal verdict was for the people of Edo state while imploring the governor to remain committed to service.

Wike expressed confidence in Okpebholo’s leadership, saying he believes the governor will bring development to the state.

“I believe in him and with the way he has started, I believe that his government will impact positively on Edo State and its people,” he added.

Wike is a member of the PDP while Okpebholo is of the All Progressives Congress (APC).