“Opposition Still Can’t Believe They Lost Edo Election” – Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has claimed that opposition parties remain in denial over the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s victory in the September 21 Edo governorship election. Speaking during Wednesday’s plenary session, Akpabio took aim at the opposition, suggesting their silence reflects disbelief.

The remarks followed a farewell visit to the Senate by Governor Monday Okpebholo, who recently assumed office after serving as a senator representing Edo Central for two years. Akpabio noted the contrasting reactions in the chamber. “This side (majority senators) is excited because they won. This side (minority senators) is quiet because they still can’t believe that they lost,” Akpabio said.

He also made light of PDP Senator Abdul Ningi’s silence on the matter, attributing it to fears of party sanctions. “For the first time, Senator Ningi did not raise his hand because he does not want to make the mistake of saying something, and when he leaves here, his political party will go and sanction him,” Akpabio remarked.

The PDP has contested the outcome of the election, with its Senate Caucus, led by Minority Leader Abba Moro, insisting their candidate, Asuerinme Ighodalo, won. Alleging manipulation, the party has vowed to retrieve its mandate, and Ighodalo has filed a petition with the Edo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal. The tribunal recently commenced proceedings in Benin City.