Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has flagged off the construction of a 14-kilometre road in Uhunmwode Local Government Area, linking the community of former Governor Godwin Obaseki with nine neighbouring communities in what he described as a significant stride towards fulfilling campaign promises and improving rural infrastructure.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on Tuesday, Governor Okpebholo expressed appreciation to the people of the area for their support during the last election and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equitable development across all parts of the state.
He noted that the Uhunmwode area enjoys strong representation in his government, with two key commissioners, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, and the Commissioner for Energy and Water Resources, both hailing from the locality.
“We appointed nine commissioners, and this community has two of them. That shows we are inclusive,” he said.
Recalling his campaign visit to the community, the governor reminded residents of their appeals for the road project and his vow to act if elected.
“When I came here to campaign, I made a promise that this road would be done. Seven months into the office, we are here to keep that promise,” he declared, adding, “This road is only the beginning; more will come.”
Okpebholo used the occasion to contrast his administration’s swift execution with what he characterised as neglect by past leaders.
“You voted for your son before, but he forgot you,” he said in a veiled swipe at his predecessor, Obaseki. “If I have a son who won’t remember me, I won’t pray for such a son.”
He praised the quality and preparedness of the contractors, noting the use of new construction equipment as evidence of the seriousness and capacity behind the project.
He also highlighted other ongoing infrastructure works in the state, including the Temboga Road in Benin and the now rehabilitated Benin-Ekpoma Road, which has reduced travel time from hours to just 45 minutes.
In a broader political remark, the governor projected confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s growing support base in Edo ahead of the 2027 elections.
“I am expecting 2.5 million votes for President Tinubu in the next election,” he said. “He is solidly behind you.”
Reflecting on development narratives in the state, Okpebholo said: “They used to say ‘Edo no be Lagos,’ and truly, we weren’t developing. But now, we are. You can see flyovers. We’re not dreaming anymore; we are seeing results.”
Dignitaries at the event included Dr. Washington Osifo, Commissioner for Energy and Water Resources; Hon. Iredia Benjamin, Uhunwode Local Government Chairman; Hon. Kaycee Uhunoma Osamwonyi, member of the Edo State House of Assembly; and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, among others
