BENIN CITY: Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed that his administration is focused on delivering visible, people-centred development, insisting that nothing would distract his government from transforming the state.
The governor spoke in Benin City at a town hall meeting with members of the Akpakomiza Movement for Tinubu, also known as Team FIGO-Connect, where he reminded supporters that their mandate was based on development, not rhetoric.
“You voted for me for a reason, and that reason is the development of Edo State,” Okpebholo said, adding that his vision is to move Edo from an ancient city to a modern one.
He said projects being executed across the state were driven by the real needs of communities rather than personal or political interests, noting that his priorities were shaped by firsthand encounters with challenges faced by residents.
Recalling a campaign visit to Temboga, the governor said the severity of gully erosion in the area influenced his development agenda.
“I couldn’t even walk inside because of the depth of the erosion. I promised the people I would return if elected, and today the results are visible,” he said.
Okpebholo stressed that development should be seen as a collective achievement of the people, not a personal success of the governor, adding that accountability remains central to his administration.
He said his government receives the same statutory allocation as previous administrations but has chosen to invest resources in projects with long-term impact.
“Our work will speak for us. A time will come when Edo people will ask questions and demand accountability,” he said.
The governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, describing them as bold and people-focused. He cited the removal of fuel subsidy and tax reforms, noting that Nigerians earning below ₦150,000 are now exempt from paying tax.
According to him, ongoing projects such as the durable reconstruction of Sapele Road, erosion control and road works in Ogheghe, and interventions in public schools long neglected by past administrations reflect his government’s commitment to sustainable development.
The town hall meeting was attended by the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Emperor Jarrett Tenebe; the Commissioner for Energy and Water Resources, Barrister Washington Osifo; members of the Edo State Executive Council; and other party leaders.
Members of the Labour Party’s Obedient Movement were also present and announced the collapse of their structures in Edo State, declaring support for the re-election of President Tinubu in 2027.
Speaking for the group, the Edo State Obedient Movement Coordinator, Comrade Ikhuenbor Felix Igbinevbo, said the decision was based on confidence in President Tinubu’s reform agenda, which he said would benefit the common man.
The meeting ended with renewed assurances of support for Governor Okpebholo, as participants pledged to work together to sustain development and economic growth across Edo State.
