This is to specially wish the good people of Edo State well on the special occasion of the Diamond Jubilee Independence Anniversary of our dear country Nigeria.
In the last 60 years, our country has gone through several moments which are not uncommon in the difficult and challenging tasks of nation-building. We must thank God Almighty for preserving the country in existence, even as we continue to explore better and more promising ways to strengthen our nationhood for the betterment of the people.
For Edo State in particular, it’s heartwarming that nearly 30 years since its creation in August 1991 from the old Bendel State, the state has remained a beacon of hope. I urge every Edo citizen to keep up faith not only in the country but in the state as well, no matter the circumstances.
We have just recently concluded a rigorous governorship election in the state. As the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the election, I have not issued any public statement on the outcome, not out of disrespect to the good people of the state, or due to any bitterness about the outcome. On the contrary, I am mindful that an election is more than the declaration of its outcome. It includes pre-election and post-election proceedings, all of which constitute integral parts of the entire electoral process within the rule of law.
Therefore, as we celebrate the 60th year independence anniversary of our dear country, I urge the good people of Edo State to remain law-abiding, while keeping hope alive of a bright future for the state and the country as a whole.
Finally, I wish to use this opportunity to warmly thank the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces for his statesmanship; the Oba of Benin, Omo ‘N Oba ‘N Edo, Ewuare II and all our royal fathers for their fatherly dispositions and their unceasing appeal for peace in the state, and all other stakeholders, including especially religious leaders too numerous to mention, for their prayers.
The leadership of my great party the APC across the state and the entire nation are sincerely appreciated for their immense support and contributions. To my teaming supporters, I want to specially appreciate you all for your amazing love and dedication to our cause.
I also appreciate our religious leaders for their ceaseless prayers for peace in our state. We thank all our people for their contributions to the peace and progress of the state.
I wish to also specially thank all APC members in Edo state and our people who though not party members supported me in the elections. I will forever appreciate your devotion and sacrifice. You did your noble duty and did enough to enhance our cause. We cannot thank you enough.
May God Almighty continue to strengthen us all.
Pastor Dr. Osagie Ize-Iyamu.
1st October, 2020
