Written by: Godswill Inegbe, Media Aide to the Governor of Edo State.
In just one week since his inauguration, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the newly elected Governor of Edo State, has redefined the state’s trajectory with bold actions and swift decisions, signaling a new era in governance.
Governor Okpebholo’s first week has been nothing short of historic, marked by the launch of the state’s first-ever flyover bridge and a series of groundbreaking initiatives. The governor wasted no time in kickstarting key infrastructure projects, including road rehabilitations and school improvements, while decisively banning exploitative market unions to ease the cost of staple foods for Edo residents.
Speaking to lawmakers and permanent secretaries shortly after assuming office, Okpebholo declared, “I am here to build Edo; therefore, we have a lot of work to do.” This commitment has already materialized in visible projects such as the rehabilitation of the Upper Mission Extension Junction, the Benin-Ekpoma expressway, and Ebomisi Community Primary School in Ovia North-East.
A sharp contrast to his predecessor’s administration, Okpebholo has impressed many with his action-oriented leadership. Within 48 hours of taking office, he announced key appointments, signaling his preparedness and focus. His decisive approach has positioned him as a man of action, breaking records as the first Edo governor to announce appointments so promptly and to take on significant infrastructure projects in his first week.
Unsurprisingly, his achievements have drawn criticism from opposition voices, particularly from former Commissioner of Information Chris Nehikhare, now the Publicity Secretary of the Edo PDP. Nehikhare dismissed Okpebholo’s projects as “white elephants,” a claim many see as politically motivated frustration.
Okpebholo’s supporters have been quick to counter these attacks, pointing out that what the previous administration failed to achieve in eight years, the new governor has initiated within days. “Governor Okpebholo will not be an ‘MOU Governor,’” a spokesperson remarked, taking a jab at the perceived inefficiency of the past administration.
The governor has emphasized his dedication to transforming Edo into a beacon of development and opportunity, with a vision of attracting investors and tourists across West Africa. “Governor Okpebholo is here to work for the people, not for political theatrics,” his administration asserted.
As Edo State witnesses this wave of rapid progress, it’s evident that Governor Okpebholo is setting a high bar for governance, silencing skeptics and inspiring hope for a brighter future.
