5 quick facts about Edo’s newly elected governor, Okpebholo

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially announced Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State.

Prof. Faruq Adamu Kuta, the Returning Officer and Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, made the declaration on Sunday at the INEC collation centre in Benin City.

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Okpebholo led the polls with 291,667 votes, claiming victory in 11 out of the 18 local government areas (LGAs). His closest rival, Ighodalo from the PDP, secured 247,274 votes, while Akpata of the Labour Party came third with 22,763 votes.

Here are five key things to know about Edo’s new governor:

Background and Age
Okpebholo was born in Uromi, Edo State. He is 54 years old.

Academic Background
After attending local schools in Uromi, he moved on to the University of Benin, where he earned a degree in Agricultural Economics. He later pursued a Master’s in Public Administration and a PhD in Agricultural Economics from the University of Ibadan.

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Entrepreneurial Ventures
Beyond politics, Okpebholo is a businessman with interests in various sectors, including hospitality, construction, oil and gas, and agriculture. His ventures reflect his drive to diversify and create opportunities.

Philanthropist
Through his foundation, the Monday Okpebholo Foundation, he has provided scholarships, healthcare, and vocational training for less-privileged communities.

Family and Faith
Okpebholo is a family man, happily married with four children. He is also a Christian and a member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

Okpebholo’s political journey started in 2003 when he was elected to the House of Representatives under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).