President Bola Tinubu has criticised the former Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, lamenting how his administration undermined the legislative branch, weakening its effectiveness for much of his tenure.
Tinubu made these remarks in a statement congratulating Senator Monday Okpebholo on his inauguration as the Governor of Edo State.
In his message, President Tinubu urged Governor Okpebholo to focus on improving the living standards of Edo residents and make a meaningful impact throughout his tenure.
Okpebholo officially succeeded former governor Godwin Obaseki following his victory in the state governorship election held on 21 September 2024.
Reflecting on the transition, President Tinubu noted that, after eight years of Obaseki’s administration, Edo State had rejoined the ranks of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He stressed the importance of Governor Okpebholo justifying the confidence placed in him and the APC, while promoting genuine democracy and effective governance in the state.
The President encouraged Okpebholo to empower the legislature and other essential government institutions, highlighting that a strong and independent legislative branch is crucial for achieving democratic good governance.
President Tinubu expressed his concerns over the previous administration’s attempts to sideline the legislative branch, which he argued diminished its effectiveness for a significant part of Obaseki’s term.
Additionally, Tinubu praised the Independent National Electoral Commission for successfully conducting the Edo Governorship Election and encouraged the Commission to pursue even higher standards in the upcoming Ondo Governorship Election, set for 16 November 2024.
The President celebrated this moment as a new chapter in Edo State’s democratic journey and shared in the people of Edo’s joy for this milestone occasion.
