The Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) on Sunday declared Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) winner of the Edo State gubernatorial election today.
Mr. Obaseki will return as the Governor of the state for a second term of four years.
The results were announced by INEC on Sunday afternoon after the results were counted from all LGA’s on Saturday.
Obaseki had 307,955 votes, which was enough to be declared a clear winner over Ize-Iyamu’s 223,619 votes.
Obaseki took to his Twitter handle to thank the people of Edo State for their votes. He stated,
“Words fail me in saluting our teeming supporters who displayed immense courage in the face of threats, intimidation and brutalization. The collective will of Edo people made it possible for us to triumph over godfatherism. Congratulations to all Edo people. This is our victory!”
Meanwhile, congratulatory messages have started pouring in for the triumph of Obaseki in the September 19 governorship election.
In a statement on Sunday, the National Peace Committee congratulated Governor Obaseki for his re-election also the people of Edo State over the peaceful conduct of the election.
He urged the governor to “repay the good people of the state with all the ingredients of good governance, justice (and) equity” as he commences his next tenure.
The NPC chairman also congratulated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and even Obaseki’s closest rival in the election and the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Osagie Ize-Iyamu.
“I want to congratulate the Chairman of INEC, Professor Mahmoud (Yakubu) and his team, the Inspector General of Police, other security agencies, and civil society groups for doing such an excellent job and making great sacrifices. It is our prayer that every election will bring us closer to peace.
“I want to thank the Oba, His Royal Highness, Omonoba who teamed up with our committee to deploy his moral authority in the appeal for peace.
“Finally, our congratulations to the contestants, to Godwin Obaseki, the winner, Pastor (Osagie) Ize-Iyamu and others who sought the office of governor.
“Your Excellency, Governor, it is our prayer that you will repay the good people of Edo state with all the ingredients of good governance, justice (and) equity. Once again, accept our congratulations and may God guide you,” he said.
