
Mon Sep 23 21:24:46 UTC 2024: ## Oshiomhole Credits Okpebholo’s Reserved Approach for Edo State Election Victory
**BENIN CITY, NIGERIA** – Former Edo State Governor and Edo North Senator, Adams Oshiomhole, has attributed the victory of Monday Okpebholo in the recent governorship election to the governor-elect’s strategic decision to avoid extensive media appearances. Speaking on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” program, Oshiomhole asserted that Okpebholo’s reserved approach was instrumental in securing the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate’s win.
Oshiomhole dismissed concerns surrounding Okpebholo’s absence from television interviews, stating that the media often exaggerates the importance of such appearances. He emphasized that Okpebholo’s direct communication with voters proved more effective, claiming that “speaking to the people about what he will do differently” resonated more than “high-profile English.”
The senator further argued that radio was a more effective medium for reaching voters in Edo State, surpassing television’s influence. He highlighted his role as the public face of the campaign, focusing on showcasing Okpebholo’s qualities and emphasizing the need for voters to understand his vision for the state.
Okpebholo’s victory was declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Sunday, with the APC candidate securing 291,667 votes, defeating PDP candidate Asue Ighodalo who garnered 247,274 votes. This win marks a return to power for the APC in Edo State, which lost control in 2020 following Governor Godwin Obaseki’s defection to the PDP. Obaseki, who will end his term in November 2024, actively supported Ighodalo during the election.
Oshiomhole’s assertion that Okpebholo’s reserved approach was key to his victory highlights the evolving dynamics of political campaigning in Nigeria. The senator’s comments suggest that a more targeted and personalized approach to voter engagement, rather than relying solely on mass media, might be increasingly effective in securing electoral success.