… Joins Benin Electricity Protest
BENIN CITY: Governor Monday Okpebholo on Monday unveiled plans to transform Ramat Park into a major tourist attraction, during an inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects in Edo South Senatorial District.
The governor toured the Ikpoba Hill flyover, ongoing erosion control works at Ramat Park, and the Sapele Road, linking Okhatu, Etiosa, Iyanomo, and Obaretin communities.
He said the Ramat Park redevelopment would go beyond easing traffic to reposition the area as a centre for leisure, tourism, and recreation.
Speaking to journalists at the site, Okpebholo said the park would be redesigned to meet modern urban standards and provide a relaxation hub for residents and visitors.
“By the time we are done with this place, it will look like Dubai,” he said, stressing the administration’s commitment to creating a landmark tourist destination.
He added, “We are not stopping at the flyover. We are building a park here to make this place useful. A lot of activities will take place here, and we are proposing structures to turn it into a tourist attraction. Edo should be known for tourism, not cultism or crises.”
The initiative aims to redefine Edo State’s image while promoting positive engagement, commerce, and recreation within Benin City. Mr. Lee, representing contractors CCECC, assured the project is on schedule and expected to be completed by May.
At the Sapele Road project, the governor described the reconstruction as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, acknowledging support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Before now, this road was almost impassable. This progress is thanks to Mr President and the cooperation of Edo people,” he said.
Okpebholo reiterated that road infrastructure remains a priority, but the transformation of Ramat Park will be a signature project enhancing leisure, commerce, and the aesthetic appeal of the state capital.
Meanwhile, Governor Monday Okpebholo on Monday joined youths protesting against prolonged blackouts and billing concerns by the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), urging calm while pledging swift engagement with stakeholders.
Speaking to demonstrators at Ring Road, Okpebholo expressed solidarity and noted that electricity challenges affect all Edo residents.
“Short-changing Edo people affect everyone—our parents, siblings, and all citizens. Why should anyone frustrate Edo people?” he asked.
The governor clarified that BEDC is privately owned but promised to address the grievances.
“We aim to bring new investors into electricity distribution to break the monopoly, similar to the telecom sector. More investors will give Edo residents options and improve service,” he said.
Okpebholo announced a stakeholders’ meeting for Tuesday and requested the protesters to nominate five representatives.
“We need to explore how to bring in more investors so everyone can enjoy stable power. Let us remain calm and allow the engagement to proceed,” he urged.
The peaceful protest saw residents carrying banners condemning outages, estimated billing, and the high cost of prepaid meters. Comrade Ogbidi Emmanuel, speaking for the group, challenged BEDC to publish names of beneficiaries of the free meter scheme, citing costs between ₦150,000 and ₦400,000. Security personnel ensured order as demonstrators dispersed after the governor’s address.
