The All Progressives Congress (APC) has attributed its victory in the recent Edo State governorship election to the collective efforts of the party’s political actors in the state, according to National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka.
He credited the strong internal collaboration and resolve following the party’s primary election for the successful election of Governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo.
In an interview with Arise TV on Tuesday, Morka highlighted how the APC was able to address internal political issues that arose during the primaries, uniting all factions behind Okpebholo to secure his win. He also acknowledged the pivotal roles played by President Bola Tinubu, the party’s National Chairman, Umar Ganduje, and the National Working Committee (NWC) in ensuring the APC’s triumph in the governorship election.
“At the All Progressives Congress, what you witnessed in Edo was a rallying of all sectors of the party,” Morka explained. “Party primaries usually produce a lot of tension, sometimes even contradictions, and APC is no exception. We witnessed that during our primaries. However, what is unique about our party is that once we were done with the primaries, it was no longer about those who sought the ticket.”
He continued, “Once a flag bearer was named, you saw all leaders and members rallying behind the APC candidate. That’s what produced this outcome—the very committed support from everyone, not just the candidate but even those who opposed him during the primaries. They stood firmly behind him.”
Morka emphasized that the victory was not solely due to Okpebholo’s individual efforts, but rather a demonstration of the party’s unified strength. “The leadership of Mr. President, our national chairman, and the National Working Committee was key. Even those who didn’t support Okpebholo during the primaries rallied around once he became the flag bearer of the party.”
No Godfather Interference in Okpebholo’s Governance
Addressing concerns about potential interference by political godfathers in Okpebholo’s administration, Morka dismissed such speculations. He assured that the APC’s primary focus is on ensuring that the new governor delivers effective governance for the people of Edo State.
“Yes, because we need him to succeed,” Morka stated. “We didn’t win the state just to armstrong the new governor. No, we will allow him the freedom to govern in the best strategic interests of the people of Edo State. It’s not about any one individual, and no godfather is going to stand in his way.”
Morka further reiterated the APC’s commitment to supporting Okpebholo in implementing policies that would benefit the citizens. “Our party is vigilant and intentional about allowing governors to govern for the utmost benefit of the people. The good people of Edo State are in for a lot of good with this new governor.”
The Edo governorship election marks a significant victory for the APC, with the party now looking ahead to support Governor-elect Okpebholo as he prepares to assume office and begin delivering on his campaign promises.
