Former Senator and current Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, delivered a heartfelt farewell speech on the Senate floor on Wednesday.
This followed the declaration by Senate President Godswill Akpabio that Okpebholo’s seat was vacant, with a directive to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to promptly conduct elections to fill the position.
Okpebholo, who previously represented the Edo Central Senatorial District, transitioned to his new role as Edo State Governor after his election.
In his valedictory address to the 10th Senate, Okpebholo reflected on his journey in the Red Chamber and expressed deep appreciation for the “warm” relationships he had built with his colleagues, emphasizing that he did not take their camaraderie for granted.
“Distinguished colleagues, this is quite emotional for me. From the moment I joined this 10th Senate in June 2023, every moment at the Red Chambers has remained especially memorable.
“We saw ourselves as forerunners of democracy, and we wanted the best for the nation. Barely one year in the Senate, I left to pursue the dream of becoming Governor. Today 1 am Governor of Edo state.
“There is no way my story can be told without my distinguished colleagues here. The support, advice, and prayers were awesome.
“Let me particularly thank the uncommon Senate President; Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCFR, his support and encouragement throughout my campaign period were truly uncommon.
“To my Distinguished Deputy Senate President; Senator Barau Jibrin, your words of advice were great political wisdom. My Senate Majority leader; Senator Opeyemi Bamidele. I say thank you for being a brother always. My consultations with you were never regretted.
“My other principal officers and indeed the entire Senators of this 10th Senate, this is a homecoming for me.
“The warm relationship among us, here in the chambers, can not be over-emphasiseover-emphasizedernor, the memories of the 10th Senate still linger in me. But one thing will assure you, will – remain your ambassador as I drive governance from the executive branch of government.
“My involvements in the business of legislation have helped to drive my passion for good governance, particularly in infrastructure development, Security, education, health and so on in m,y new role as Governor.
“We worked together, we gained successes together and we must always be proud of each other wherever.
“I want to express my gratitude to some of my close friends here, including Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, Senator Babangida Husseini Uba, and Senator Abdulaziz Yari just to mention a few.
“Thank you for standing by me throughout the campaign exercises.
“To all of you, I want to say Obilu!”, he said.