Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has once again drawn a clear line between politics and performance, declaring that his administration is firmly committed to one purpose: delivering tangible, people-focused development across the state.
Speaking at a town hall meeting in Benin City with members of the Akpakomiza Movement for Tinubu, popularly known as Team FIGO-Connect, the governor reminded supporters that his election was not about rhetoric or fanfare, but about real change that Edo people can see and feel.
According to Okpebholo, the mandate handed to him by the people was simple and unmistakable to transform Edo State and he is determined not to lose sight of that responsibility.
“You voted for me for a reason, and that reason is the development of Edo State,” he said. “My vision is clear: to move Edo from an ancient city to a modern one, and nothing will distract me from that goal.”
The governor explained that every project currently underway across the state is rooted in the actual needs of communities, rather than political interests. He noted that his approach to governance is shaped by direct encounters with the daily realities faced by residents.
He recalled a campaign visit to Temboga, where the severity of gully erosion made a lasting impression on him. The experience, he said, strengthened his resolve to prioritize interventions that address long-standing problems.
“When I went to Temboga, I couldn’t even walk freely because of how deep the erosion was. I promised the people I would return if elected, and I kept that promise. Today, the difference is clear,” he stated.
Okpebholo stressed that development should never be viewed as the personal achievement of a governor, but as a shared victory made possible by the collective will of the people.
“Without your votes, I wouldn’t be here. So there is no special praise for me. What we are seeing today belongs to all of us,” he said.
On the issue of accountability, the governor noted that his administration receives the same statutory allocation as past governments but has chosen a different path one focused on investments that will stand the test of time.
“Our work will speak for us. A day will come when Edo people will ask questions and demand accountability, and we will be ready,” he added.
The governor also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, describing them as bold decisions aimed at protecting the common man. He pointed to the removal of fuel subsidy and recent tax reforms, which now exempt Nigerians earning below ₦150,000 from taxation.
“The president is carrying the people along. Leakages have been blocked, and those who benefited from the old system are now uncomfortable,” Okpebholo said.
He highlighted key projects such as the durable reconstruction of Sapele Road, erosion control and road works in Ogheghe, and interventions in long-neglected public schools as evidence of his administration’s commitment to sustainable development.
The town hall meeting drew top party leaders, including Edo State APC Chairman, Emperor Jarrett Tenebe; Commissioner for Energy and Water Resources, Barrister Washington Osifo; members of the Edo State Executive Council; and other stakeholders.
Adding a political twist to the gathering, members of the Labour Party’s Obedient Movement announced the collapse of their structures in Edo State and declared their support for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
Speaking for the group, Edo State Obedient Movement Coordinator, Comrade Ikhuenbor Felix Igbinevbo, said the decision followed a careful assessment of the president’s reform agenda.
“Most of us here supported Peter Obi in 2023. But we have decided to support President Tinubu for a second term because we believe his reforms will ultimately benefit the common man,” he said.
The meeting concluded on a note of unity and renewed commitment, with participants pledging to work alongside the governor to sustain development and economic growth across Edo State.
