Former Senator now Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo has bid farewell to the Senate in an emotional speech presented on the floor of the house on Wednesday.
This was after Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, declared his seat vacant and asked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct elections as soon as possible to fill the vacant seat.
Okpebholo represented Edo Central Senatorial district before he was elected the Edo state governor.
In a valedictory speech presented to the entire members of the 10th Senate, Okpebholo who first reeled out his entire journey in the Red Chamber, said he could not take the “warm” relationship he shared with the lawmakers for granted.
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“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-emphasised.
“Even as Governor, 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 my 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.
