Tinubu claims Edo win shows Nigerians back APC’s painful economic policies

President Bola Tinubu, on Sunday, congratulated the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Monday Okpebholo, for his victory in the Edo State governorship election.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu claimed that the win reflects popular support for his administration’s policies, despite mounting criticism of his economic decisions, which many believe have deepened hardship across the country.

While Mr Tinubu portrayed the outcome as proof of the people’s backing for his “economic reengineering” and APC’s “progressive ideals,” his statement overlooks the widespread public discontent.

Since taking office, the president’s policies—particularly the removal of fuel subsidies and currency devaluation—have led to inflation, skyrocketing living costs, and increased poverty, placing severe strain on millions of Nigerians.

The assertion that citizens are supportive of these policies seems more like a political statement than a reflection of reality, given the daily struggles Nigerians face under his administration.

In August, Nigerians held nationwide protests against the government’s policies, but the administration clamped down on protesters and charged those arrested with treason.

Edo Polls

INEC declared Okpebholo the winner on Sunday, with the APC triumphing over the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

However, the opposition PDP says the election was marred by reports of irregularities, vote fraud, and manipulation during the collation process.

The opposition party has rejected the outcome, accusing the APC of rigging the election and calling for an investigation into the conduct of the polls.

Mr Tinubu praised APC leaders, including those in Edo State, for working hard to secure the victory. He urged Okpebholo to approach his win with humility and reach out to his political opponents for the sake of unity.

Mr Tinubu also commended INEC for organizing what he described as a “largely hitch-free” election, though this claim contrasts with allegations of electoral malpractice.