Minna – Gov. Sani Bello of Niger has described the victory of Mr Godwin Obaseki, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governor-elect of Edo, as a reward for dedication and commitment to service by the party.

This was contained in a statement signed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Malam Jibrin Ndace and made available to newsmen on Friday in Minna,

Bello said that the victory of Obaseki at the polls was a testimony, which showed that the people of Edo appreciated the developmental progress recorded in the last eight years.

The statement urged the governor-elect to ensure that he built on the foundation laid by his predecessor, so as to take the state to a greater height.

“I want to congratulate Obaseki and Mr Philip Shaibu, his deputy, on their victory at the just concluded governorship election in Edo state.

“Your track record as a seasoned technocrat and your antecedents as an astute administrator must have informed your choice by the people.

“Your emergence at the polls as the governor-elect in the keenly contested election was a testimony of the confidence the people have in you, as a teamplayer whose contributions to Edo development are outstanding.

“As the people have willingly and massively gave you the mandate, I enjoin you to build on the good foundation laid by your predecessor. Also ensure that this is taken to the next level,’’ the statement said.

It, however, enjoined the elected to fulfill their campaign promises to the people, adding that fulfilment of promise would bring about dividends of democracy in the state.

“I urge you to live up to your vision of building a modern and progressive Edo where every citizen is empowered with opportunity to live life in its fullness’’.

“Above all, you must realize that you are now governor of all, irrespective of political, ideological, religious and ethnic differences,’’ it added.