… Mulls partnership with LAPO MfB to empower civil, public servants
The Edo State Government has clarified recent remarks by Governor Monday Okpebholo regarding the visit of former Anambra State Governor, Mr Peter Obi, urging the public to disregard misinterpretations suggesting any form of hostility.
In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Fred Itua, the government emphasised that Governor Okpebholo’s comments were not directed as a threat to Mr Obi or any other political figure, but rather underscored the need for adherence to standard security protocols during high-profile visits.
“As the Chief Security Officer of the State, Governor Okpebholo is constitutionally mandated to ensure the safety of lives and property of both residents and visitors,” the statement said.
“This duty includes the coordination of security arrangements for events or appearances involving politically exposed persons or activities that may attract large gatherings and media attention.”
The government noted that bypassing such security procedures creates avoidable vulnerabilities and puts both the visitor and the general public at risk.
It stressed that the call for clearance is a standard precautionary measure, not a political maneuver.
Governor Okpebholo’s stance, the statement added, is particularly relevant in the context of growing insecurity across Nigeria, including targeted attacks on religious leaders.
Edo State has witnessed several such incidents in recent years, including the abduction of seminarians and the murder of Christian clerics.
The Governor also appealed for caution in public giving, particularly within faith-based institutions, explaining that highly publicised donations could inadvertently expose these institutions to security threats.
He rooted this advice in both intelligence assessments and scriptural counsel. Quoting Matthew 6:2–4, the statement recalled Christ’s instruction that acts of charity should be done discreetly: “Do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing … Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
Governor Okpebholo, the statement noted, has never acted vindictively, unlike past incidents involving other state officials, such as when Mr Obi, while serving as Governor of Anambra State, allegedly ordered the detention of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai during a political visit.
The Edo State Government urged political actors and commentators not to exploit the Governor’s remarks for partisan purposes.
“We will not permit politically motivated activities that endanger the lives of our people,” the statement read.
“Every leader, no matter how highly placed, must align with the security realities and protocols of the areas they visit.”
Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s commitment to keeping Edo State safe, secure, and welcoming to all Nigerians.
“However, he appealed for mutual cooperation to ensure that visits and public engagements take place in an orderly and secure manner.
The government concluded by reaffirming its hospitality towards all well-meaning Nigerians, provided that established procedures are respected in the interest of public safety.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with Lift Above Poverty Organization Microfinance Bank (LAPO MfB) to boost the economic empowerment of civil and public servants through indigenous initiatives and credit support systems.
The renewed position was disclosed by the Edo State Head of Service (HOS), Dr Anthony Okungbowa, during a meeting with a delegation from LAPO MfB in Government House, Benin City.
Dr Okungbowa emphasised that Governor Monday Okpebholo remains steadfast in his belief in grassroots-driven, homegrown solutions, stating that the proposed partnership with LAPO would be a significant step towards improving the public service landscape and enhancing financial inclusion for workers in the state.
“Our Governor is very unique. He believes in indigenous systems—in how government is run, in how people are empowered, and in the way the civil and public service is structured. That guiding principle makes initiatives like LAPO, which was founded here in Edo, worthy of priority and prominence,” he said.
Reiterating the Governor’s support, the HOS assured the delegation that the state would back LAPO’s efforts to provide financial services to civil and public servants, while also advising the organisation to ensure its products and rates remain competitive.
“We will support this venture to ensure its success. Yes, there are many financial institutions, but LAPO stands out. It has a credible track record, and I believe it will deliver in a distinct manner.
“This is a highly competitive space. What you offer will determine how our officers engage with you. It’s not just about business—impact matters too,” he added.
The HOS also noted that LAPO’s roots in Edo are a point of pride and a reason to trust its capacity to deliver sustainable and impactful services. He further praised the values of its founder.
“When LAPO began operations, we recognised the quality behind its establishment. Over time, LAPO has consistently proven its credibility.
“Undoubtedly, it remains a leader in Nigeria’s microfinance industry. I know the founder personally—his work ethic and integrity are qualities every worker should emulate. I hold him in high regard,” Dr Okungbowa said.
On his part, LAPO’s Head of Communication, Mr Oluremi Akande, expressed deep appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to empowering Edo State workers and grassroots communities.
He said LAPO’s renewed engagement with the state government aims to deliver accessible and affordable financial services to help civil servants manage their obligations with ease.
“LAPO is a household name in Edo State. We are proud of our origins here and recognise the State Government’s commendable efforts to improve workers’ welfare.
“We believe public-private partnerships like this are critical to sustaining progress.
“This visit is to reintroduce our services through your office and create awareness among civil and public servants about our fairly priced, tailored loan products. A financially secure worker is a more productive worker,” Akande stated.
He added that LAPO is passionate about economic empowerment and social intervention, noting that the organisation has awarded over 3,000 scholarships and provided skills training to more than 1,500 beneficiaries, many of whom are from Edo State.
