… Vows fair deal for Owan, reaffirms inclusive governance
BENIN CITY: Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has described the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent as a rare spiritual convergence and called on Nigerians to use the sacred period to pray for national renewal.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the governor said the alignment of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan with the Christian Lenten season offers a solemn opportunity for reflection, sacrifice and deeper commitment to peaceful coexistence.
According to him, both seasons emphasise shared values of faith, self-discipline, compassion and devotion to God.
Okpebholo urged Muslims and Christians to dedicate the period of fasting and prayer to seeking divine intervention in the affairs of the state and the country.
He appealed for fervent prayers for unity, economic stability, improved security and lasting peace.
Describing the moment as profound for the nation, he encouraged citizens to lift Nigeria before God in supplication, expressing confidence that collective prayers would help overcome present challenges and strengthen national cohesion.
He also wished Muslims a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan and Christians a grace-filled Lenten season, praying that the period would usher in renewed hope and blessings for families across Edo and beyond.
Meanwhile, Governor Okpebholo has reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and equitable development, assuring that no community will be marginalised under his leadership.
The governor gave the assurance when he received members of Owan Conscience, a socio-political group led by its Chairman, Hon. Richard Ofen-Imu, during a courtesy visit to Government House in Benin City.
Addressing the delegation, Okpebholo emphasised that his administration is guided by fairness, justice and due process, stressing that every part of Edo State must benefit from government policies and programmes.
He said decisions taken by his government would continue to reflect equity and serve the overall interest of the people.
“Edo State under my watch will continue to safeguard the interest of every locality as we work towards building a new Edo where citizens can live life to the fullest,” the governor stated.
He disclosed that he had carefully considered the concerns raised by the group, particularly issues relating to appointments into the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University (AAU).
He assured them that their requests would be reviewed in accordance with the law.
“I have taken note of your appeal, especially regarding the Governing Council of AAU and other grey areas. We will examine your requests within the ambit of the law to ensure that the interest of Owan people is adequately captured,” he said.
Describing Owan as his home, Okpebholo reaffirmed his strong ties with the people and pledged continued support for their development aspirations.
Earlier, Ofen-Imu congratulated the governor on his first year in office and on his recognition as Governor of the Year 2025 in Education by New Telegraph Newspaper.
He said the group’s visit was to commend the administration’s developmental strides while also drawing attention to concerns affecting Owan people.
According to him, the issues raised centred on political inclusion, civil service representation, appointments into the Governing Council of AAU and the Judicial Service Commission.
“We are here to congratulate you on your one year in office and to express some concerns regarding the Owan people. We acknowledge and support the developmental strides of your administration,” he said.
Another member of the delegation, Sabina Idowu, commended the governor for sustained engagement with Owan people from the primary election period through the campaign and into his administration.
She noted that ongoing projects in the area had strengthened public confidence in the government.
“The projects currently ongoing in Owan have reassured us that we made the right choice.
“As a people, we will continue to support your administration and stand by you to ensure that your promises to Edo people are fulfilled,” she said.
She, however, appealed for greater consideration of Owan’s interests in political appointments, citing concerns about representation within Edo North.
The meeting ended with the governor restating his resolve to run a government anchored on inclusivity, fairness and balanced development across all parts of the state.
