Senator Monday Okpebholo has been officially sworn in as the Governor of Edo State, following his victory in the September 21 gubernatorial election. Representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), Okpebholo triumphed over his opponents, Barr. Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Barr. Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party.

The ceremony took place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin, where Vice-President Kashim Shettima led a Federal Government delegation that included several APC governors: Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Hope Uzodinma (Imo), and Ahmad Aliyu (Sokoto). APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and former Edo State Governor Senator Adams Oshiomhole were also present.

The Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okongbowa, administered the oath of office to Okpebholo at 1:00 p.m., with his daughters by his side. Prior to this, Hon. Denise Idahosa was sworn in as the Deputy Governor, joined by his wife on stage. Following the ceremony, Okpebholo inspected the guard of honor, accompanied by a police parade.

Governor Okpebholo has already made significant appointments, naming Musa Ikhilor as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG). Dr. Samson Osagie has been nominated as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, while Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, son of Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has been selected as Health Commissioner-designate. According to Fred Itua, the governor’s spokesperson, Osagie’s and Oshiomhole’s nominations await confirmation by the Edo House of Assembly.

Ikhilor brings over 11 years of legislative and legal experience to his role. Born in Benin City, he holds an LL.B from Ahmadu Bello University and an LL.M in Telecommunications Law. He has previously served in multiple roles at the National Assembly, specializing in legislative drafting, governance, and constitutional amendments.