Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday swore in 19 new commissioners and several chairmen and members of state boards and commissions, with a stern warning against corruption, indiscipline, and any conduct capable of undermining the integrity of his administration.
The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Government House in Benin City, was attended by top government officials including the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa; Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi (SAN); Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Musa Ikilor; Chief of Staff, Alhaji Gani Audu; serving commissioners, special advisers, permanent secretaries, and heads of ministries, departments, and agencies.
A statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, said the event marked another milestone in the ongoing effort by the Okpebholo administration to strengthen governance and deliver on its campaign promises to the people of Edo State.
Addressing the appointees shortly after administering the oath of office, Governor Okpebholo reminded them that their appointments were based strictly on merit and competence, not political patronage or reward.
“Your nominations did not come as a reward or patronage, but as a call to serve the people of Edo State,” the governor declared. “This administration came into office on the promise of practical governance to touch the lives of our people directly.”
The governor charged the new commissioners and board members to see their appointments as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the rebuilding of Edo State, rather than as an avenue for personal enrichment.
“While I congratulate you on your deserved elevation, I must warn that your appointment is not for personal enrichment. You are not here for money-making, but for service, for sacrifice, and for a better life for Edo people,” he said.
Okpebholo emphasized that his government has zero tolerance for corruption and will not hesitate to sanction any official found guilty of abuse of office or misconduct.
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“This administration has zero tolerance for corruption. You are expected to display discipline, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose. I expect loyalty to the people of Edo State. History will judge us not by our intentions, but by our actions,” he cautioned.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to transparency and tangible development, the governor said his focus remains on service delivery and measurable results, not propaganda or empty promises.
“Our focus is not on propaganda but on service delivery and tangible results that can be felt in every community across our state,” he stated.
Okpebholo reiterated that his administration’s vision is to rebuild and reposition Edo State for sustainable development, good governance, and shared prosperity.
“Today marks another important step in our journey to rebuild and reposition Edo State for development. Together, let us prove that government can work for the people. Let us write a new chapter where service comes before self and show that a new Edo has truly risen,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the newly sworn-in appointees, Ebea Odianonsen expressed gratitude to the governor for the confidence reposed in them and assured him of their full commitment to his vision for the state.
“We thank the governor for finding us worthy to serve. We pledge to support your developmental agenda and ensure that all your promises to the people of Edo State and to President Bola Tinubu are fully realised,” Odianonsen said.
He further assured that the commissioners and board members would work tirelessly to ensure effective governance, political stability, and socio-economic transformation in the state.
