By Abiola Olawale
All is finally set for the electorate of Edo State to go to the polls to elect the candidate of their choice for the next four years.
One of the leading candidates in the election is Senator Monday Okpebholo, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the September 21 governorship election.
Okpebholo was declared winner of the APC governorship primaries which was held at Lushville Hotel and Suites in Benin, Edo State.
Declaring the outcome of the election, Chairman of the election committee and Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Otu, said following the collation of results from the 18 Local Government Areas, Okpebholo polled 12,433 votes to defeat Dennis Idahosa who polled 6,541 votes and other 10 aspirants who contested the primary election.
Since that time, Okpebholo, who serves as the Senator representing the good people of Edo Central Senatorial district of Edo state in the Senate, has spearheaded campaigns throughout the 18 local government areas within the state.
In his manifesto, Okpebholo promised free transportation and emphasized developing the Edo state’s mobility and economic sectors.
Below is a profile of the APC’s candidate;
Monday Okpebholo was born on 29 August 1970. He is a Nigerian businessman and politician who is currently serving as a senator in the National Assembly.
Okpebholo was born in the Udomi-Uwessan community of Irrua, Edo State. He attended Udomi Community Primary School and Ujabhole Community Secondary School, both in Uwesan Irrua, Esan Central LGA.
He completed his secondary education and obtained his senior school certificate in Jos, Plateau State. Thereafter, he obtained a degree in Business Administration from the University of Abuja. In addition, he holds a Master’s degree in Policy and Leadership Studies from the same institution.
In order to advance his skills and policy acumen, Okpebholo has acquired certificates in Legislative Studies and Management from Nigerian institutes, a fact which highlights his dedication to continuous personal and professional development.
In 2003, Okpebholo embarked on his political journey by running for the House of Representatives under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
His victory marked the beginning of a meaningful political career dedicated to serving the public. Throughout his time in office, he actively advocated for important issues such as agriculture, rural development, and legislative reform, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact on his constituents.
Okpebholo contested for the Senate Seat in Edo Central senatorial district, under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and was elected on 25 February 2023. On 13 June 2023, he was inaugurated into the 10th National Assembly of Nigeria, as the senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing Edo Central senatorial district.
In February 2024, he won the Edo State APC gubernatorial primary election.
Okpebholo is married to Blessing Okpapi Ekpe, and together, they have 2 children.
Besides being a politician and a family man, he is also a committed Christian and an active member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
