Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has described Governor lfeanyi Okowa as a unifier because he ensured Edo and Delta States remained united.
He spoke at a valedictory dinner held for him, the outgoing governor and his deputy, Mr Kingsley Otuaro, in Asaba on Sunday night.
He said history will be kind to Okowa for supporting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to emerge victorious in the governorship election.
Obaseki said no matter what people think about the Okowa-led administration, history has recorded Okowa’s achievements while on the saddle for eight years.
“I am here to celebrate and thank God for the life of our own chairman, Chairman of the South-South Governors Forum. You have done your part and that’s all you can do and we thank God for your wife and family that have been a pillar of support all through these eight years.
“I want to thank God that you have kept the tradition, you have played your own part, you have run your own session of the race. You inherited a Delta that is PDP and you are handing on a Delta that is PDP to your successor.
“People will have their own versions of history but history is history and history has recorded what you have achieved for your people in Delta State.
“I congratulate you and thank God for your life that as you move to the next phase of your calling, the Lord who has seen you through will be there to support you,” he stated.
Obaseki charged the Governor-elect, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, to brace up for the challenges ahead and wished him well as he assumes office on May 29.
On his part, Governor Okowa who was very emotional on the night, thanked Deltans for giving him and his deputy the opportunity to serve the state for eight years.
He also commended the legislature and the judiciary as well as the civil service for their contributions to his administration’s success.
“There is no doubt that we had some happy moments but we also had some challenging moments. Several challenges came our way but God was with us all through.
“God was with us and He will be with you through your tenure,” he said.
We’ve got the edge. Get real-time reports, breaking scoops, and exclusive angles delivered straight to your phone. Don’t settle for stale news. Join LEADERSHIP NEWS on WhatsApp for 24/7 updates →
Join Our WhatsApp Channel