Governor Monday Okpebholo’s leadership in Edo State has been marked by a clear and consistent commitment to inclusive governance. Yet, recent ethnic slurs and divisive rhetoric aimed at his administration threaten to derail the unity and progress that the state so urgently needs.
According to the 1999 Constitution, the governor of a state is the Chief Executive Officer not of a single tribe, senatorial district, or political faction, but of the entire state. From the beginning, Governor Okpebholo has embraced this role, leading with a vision rooted in fairness, balance, and service to all Edo people, regardless of their ethnic background or political affiliation.
His record speaks louder than any accusation. The governor’s policies and projects reveal an intentional spread of development across the state, with Edo South being a major beneficiary. From roads and hospitals to education and housing, the district has seen massive investments under his watch.
Notable among them is the long-overdue reconstruction of the Benin–Abraka Road a ₦21.22 billion project that will unlock economic opportunities for thousands and the revival of the Benin–Sapele Road, now being rebuilt by the state after a failed federal contract. In Benin City, the Rahmat Park Flyover and Agbor Park Bypass projects are transforming urban mobility, while upgrades to the Stella Obasanjo Hospital are elevating healthcare delivery.
Governor Okpebholo’s focus extends beyond infrastructure. His vision for digital innovation through the Edo Tech City project is positioning youths for global competitiveness. In rural communities, electrification and clean water initiatives are reaching underserved areas, proving that governance is not confined to city centres or political strongholds.
Edo South has not been left out politically either. The governor has made numerous key appointments from the district and has included its voices in top government decisions, ensuring balanced representation. Claims of marginalisation, therefore, fall flat in the face of reality.
It is troubling, then, that a few individuals have chosen to overlook these strides and resort to ethnic provocations, particularly over commissioner appointments. These divisive narratives do not serve the interests of the people—they serve only the ambitions of a few. At a time when the state needs unity and focus, political blackmail and sectional agitation only sabotage collective progress.
The legacies of past leaders like Dr. Samuel Ogbemudia and Professor Ambrose Alli were not built on bickering and suspicion—they were forged through shared purpose and commitment to the common good. Governor Okpebholo is walking in those footsteps, prioritising legacy over short-term applause.
Now is not the time for Edo people to retreat into tribal or political corners. It is a time to rally around a governor who is delivering tangible results. Infrastructure is improving, economic corridors are opening, young people are being empowered, and communities long forgotten are finally being seen.
The stakes are high. The decisions made today will shape the future of Edo State for generations. Will the people choose unity over division? Will they back a leader with vision and integrity or allow petty grievances to stall progress?
Governor Okpebholo has chosen the path of substance. It’s time the people choose the same. The promise of a greater Edo—an Edo that works for all can only be realised if we reject divisiveness and embrace the leadership that is already making a difference.
