As the political campaigns commence in Edo State for the upcoming governorship election scheduled for September 21, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, has expressed his commitment to respecting and preserving the cultural heritage of his constituents.
As reported by PUNCH, Okpebholo, who emerged as the party's sole candidate after defeating 11 other aspirants on February 23, has pledged that his government, if elected, will hold the office of the Benin monarch, Oba Ewuare II, and other royal fathers in high esteem.
He criticized the current administration of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for what he perceives as a lack of respect towards traditional institutions.
In a statement issued by his media office in Abuja on Wednesday, Okpebholo said, "Our traditional institutions have been messed up.
The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N'Oba N'Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, and other Royal Fathers will be held in high esteem, unlike the Peoples Democratic Party's disrespectful arrogance towards our traditional institutions."
The senator emphasized that he and his running mate have prior experience as elected officials, being members of the National Assembly.
He dismissed their opponents as inexperienced "baby politicians" who rely solely on eloquence but lack the necessary credentials for victory. Okpebholo assured that he and his team would teach them a lesson they would not forget on Election Day.
"When we unveil our manifesto and campaign team, we will hit the ground running. For us, this is a marathon, and we will win the race in the end. No amount of intimidation or blackmail will derail us. We are in this contest to win, and we will take over Edo State by the grace of God," Okpebholo declared.
The senator also highlighted that contractors working on federal roads have resumed work on abandoned projects after his intervention alongside Adams Oshiomhole, the leader of the Edo APC.
He promised that more capital projects would be secured when the APC reclaims the state and collaborates with the central government.
Okpebholo urged his loyalists and supporters to remain calm and focused, advising them not to be provoked into causing unrest in the state.
He assured them that his running mate, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, and himself, along with other party faithful, would directly address the people during the campaigns.
Okpebholo pledged to address the concerns of the people, ensure inclusivity, and provide reasons why they should entrust him and his team with the opportunity to serve.
He emphasized that their word would be their bond, and they would not deceive the people.