My Electoral Victory Not From Prophets Or Herbalists — Gov Okpebholo

Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Sunday, distanced himself from native doctors or prophets, who claimed he sought their help to win the 2024 Edo State governorship election, saying that his victory at the poll came from God.

Okpebholo disclosed this to worshippers at the Winner’s Chapel Akho in Irrua, Esan Central local government area of the State, where he worshipped alongside top members of his administration.

Okpebholo’s assertion may not be unconnected with speculations and claims in some quarters, especially among herbalists and prophets, that they were responsible for his electoral victory.

But, apparently, setting the records straight, Governor Okpebholo said, “I want to thank God for his wonderful deeds in my life, as no one can accomplish this except Him alone. My life is filled with testimonies, and God has consistently granted me victory in all my endeavours.”

“This is the first instance where someone has contested an election without seeking help from native doctors or prophets. My faith is in Christ alone. If God does not will it, then let it not be done.

“In Nigeria, and indeed the world, no prophet or native doctor can claim that I visited them for help in winning the election.

“The only factor I recognise is God. If He will not accomplish it, then let it not be done. This marks the first time in Nigeria that a person has contested an election, and the prevailing sentiment is that God’s grace is upon him or her.

“As a member of Winner’s Church, I am confident that we cannot be losers, especially since both my Deputy and I are part of this community. How can we lose? While others were strategising and utilising media outlets, I trusted in the Lord, and He granted me victory,” the governor revealed.

The Pastor of Winner’s Chapel Church, Akho, Peter Osawe, spoke on the topic ‘Wisdom Kits for Joy and Rejoicing,’ emphasising that God is the pivotal factor in human life.

He noted that nothing occurs without God’s knowledge and encouraged the congregation to continue drawing strength from God’s word.

“Nigeria will become a better nation if we work together, as the process of improvement begins with us,” the cleric said.

Governor Okpebholo also attended a service at God’s People Worldwide Prayer Ministry in Illeh, Ekpoma, Esan West local government area of the State.

The General Overseer of the church, Apostle Ehijele Unuayan, urged the governor to remain focused on his vision for the state’s development and the welfare of its people.

Apostle Unuayan expressed gratitude to the governor for approving automatic employment for First Class graduates of Edo origin from universities in Nigeria and beyond.

In his address, Governor Okpebholo stated that he was in the church to seek prayers for success in governing the state.

“I am here to pray for the strength to move the state forward, to work for the Edo people, to utilise the state’s resources for development, and to promote justice and fairness for the Edo people.”

The highlights of both church services were the prayers offered for the success of Governor Okpebholo-led administration over the next four years.