The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has revealed how he overcame challenges to win the 21st September governorship election, attributing his success to the grace of God, constant prayers, and the support of the people.
Governor Okpebholo made these remarks on Wednesday evening during his post-swearing-in Thanksgiving Service, which took place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, the state capital.
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In his testimony, the governor shared an unusual experience he encountered just before the election results were announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He discovered a dead bat on his bed, which he viewed as a sign of divine intervention.
“I want to thank God. In this last election, while I was praising God, my traducers were busy working through television, social media, and other platforms. But I took the battle to God because I knew the secret,” Governor Okpebholo said.
He recounted how, just before the election, he was mocked on television and social media, with some even questioning his sanity. Despite the negative remarks, he chose to trust in God’s guidance. โA few days before the election, they said I was crazy. We gathered to praise God in this state, and they mocked me on TV. But I listened to the voice of God, and I won the battle,โ he added.
The Governor continued, โAfter the election, on Sunday morning, I went to my room and found that a bat had died on my bed, without me firing a single arrow. But the spirit of God was there. The arrow of God, the hand of God, delivered me.โ
He expressed deep gratitude to the clergymen and other men of God who prayed for him throughout the election. He also thanked his supporters, emphasizing that with God, all things are possible. โTrust in God alone, because He will do it for you,โ he advised others.
Okpebholo made it clear that during his election campaign, he did not resort to consulting native doctors, prophets, or seeking assistance from shrines.
The Thanksgiving Service, which celebrated the Governor’s victory, was attended by notable politicians, music artists, and clergymen.