Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has marked his first year in office with a strong message of resolve, stressing that his administration will continue to prioritize security, healthcare renewal, accountability in governance, and political stability ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking during a media engagement in Benin, the governor said leadership is most effective when built on respect, but insisted that securing lives and property demands firmness and decisive action.
Okpebholo said nightlife has fully returned to Benin City after years of insecurity, adding that his administration has dismantled the criminal gangs that once terrorized residents.
“They were warned. They challenged us. We responded without hesitation,” he said, confirming that law enforcement agencies have made arrests and demolished criminal hideouts.
On kidnapping, the governor said the state is witnessing significant progress, disclosing that more than 300 vigilante personnel have been trained and deployed across various communities, leading to three consecutive weeks of reduced crime rates.
“Edo is no longer a safe haven for criminals,” he declared.
Reiterating his support for the establishment of State Police, Okpebholo said localized security structures remain the future of Nigeria’s safety framework.
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The governor also detailed a broad overhaul of the health sector, which he described as “near collapse” before he assumed office. According to him, more than 80 primary healthcare centres have been renovated across all 18 LGAs, with newly recruited doctors and nurses posted and retained through improved welfare packages.
He recounted that a former deputy governor personally expressed gratitude after his mother’s community received its first resident doctor in history.
On infrastructure, Okpebholo highlighted the revival of the Edo Line transport service, now upgraded with 50 new CNG-powered buses, complementing the 100 buses previously delivered by his administration.
Turning to politics, the governor expressed confidence that the APC remains the dominant force heading into 2027.
“We promised 2.5 million votes, and we mean it,” he said, adding that President Bola Tinubu’s backing has further boosted the party’s acceptance across the state.
He pointed to ongoing construction works, including the Ramat Park and Adesuwa flyovers, as well as newly opened road corridors on Sapele Road, stating that performance, not propaganda, will determine electoral outcomes.
Okpebholo ended with a pledge of commitment:
“Edo people entrusted me with this mandate. I will not betray that trust.”
