Recently, in the spirit of the 2026 Easter celebration, members of the Edo State House of Assembly, led by the Speaker, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, visited Governor Monday Okpebholo at his country home in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area.
At first glance, it may have seemed like a simple festive visit; the executive and legislative arms of government coming together to share in the joy of Easter. However, beyond the pleasant moment shared, the visit carried a deeper meaning. It was a moment of reflection, appreciation and, more importantly, reassurance.
The Speaker made it clear that the lawmakers were not only there to celebrate, but also to acknowledge the Governor’s performance and restate their readiness to support his administration. In a political climate where tensions between the executive and legislature are often the norm, as witnessed in some states, such a move by the Edo legislators stands out.
For ordinary Edo people, this kind of unity matters if the state is to continue on a progressive path. It means fewer distractions and greater focus on governance. In essence, energy is being directed towards solving problems and improving lives, rather than settling political scores. In recent times, this working relationship between both arms of government appeared to have been non-existent.
In some states, Houses of Assembly have at times descended into crisis-ridden law-making bodies, manipulated by political actors to serve their own interests and advance the selfish agendas of so-called ‘godfathers’, often to the detriment of the state.
Today, however, both arms of government in Edo are on the same page; policies move faster, decisions are clearer, and governance feels more purposeful and seamless. It may not have solved every challenge overnight, but it certainly creates the right atmosphere for peace and harmony, which are the main ingredients of development and progress.
There was a time when disagreements and political divisions slowed things down, leaving the state caught between opposing camps. That experience is still fresh in the minds of many. Today, seeing a different approach, one built on cooperation rather than confrontation, offers a sense of relief and cautious optimism. Governor Okpebholo himself acknowledged this when he said that the unity between the executive and legislature has already begun to yield positive results.
For many residents, what matters most is that this cooperation translates into real improvements, such as better roads, improved welfare for citizens, stronger institutions and more opportunities for the governed.
Edo has always had a reputation for resilience and forward-looking governance.
Like every other state, it has its share of challenges; however, moments like this suggest a willingness to move in the right direction. It is not about perfection, but about progress and development that translate into the welfare of citizens.
Interestingly, the same Governor who once faced doubts and scepticism is now being judged by what people can see and feel. That shift from criticism to acceptance did not happen by chance; it reflects growing confidence, even if gradual.
For these gains to be sustained, citizens must also play their part by holding those in government accountable, supporting good policies, and contributing their quota, no matter how small, to the development of the state.
Besides, this collaboration between both arms of government offers important lessons that should guide future engagements, especially in the conduct of governance.
Now is the time for all stakeholders, irrespective of tribe or political affiliation, to jettison parochialism and support a shared developmental agenda.
