Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been sworn in as the 6th Civilian Governor of Edo State amid controversy between the new governor and his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki.
Okpebholo took his oath of office at about 1.02 pm on Tuesday in Benin, the state capital.
Dennis Idahosa was also sworn in as Edo’s deputy governor.
At the swearing-in ceremony held at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, many dignitaries were in attendance, including Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
But, Okpebholo’s predecessor, Godwin Obaseki did not attend the inauguration.
Obaseki failed to formally hand over to his successor.
However, the event was presided over by the Chief Justice of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, who administered the oaths, marking the formal transition of leadership in the state.
Okpebholo and Idahosa both pledged to uphold the Nigerian Constitution and work diligently for the welfare of Edo residents.
The new governor, while addressing the audience, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead and promised to work tirelessly to advance the development of the South-South state.
Investors King had reported that Okpebholo polled 291,667 votes in the September election to defeat Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who came second with 247,274 votes.
Olumide Akpata, candidate of the Labour Party (LP), came third with 22,763 votes.
