The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has commissioned the New Edo Line Transport Service, alongside top dignitaries which includes: FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and former Edo State Governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole.
The commissioning ceremony, held in Benin City, brought together key stakeholders from government, security agencies, traditional institutions, and the transportation sector.
FCT Minister Wike, who was the guest of honour, used the occasion to back Governor Okpebholo on the need for high-profile individuals like former Anambra Governor Peter Obi to observe security protocols when visiting states. He referenced Obi’s visit to him in Rivers, stating that proper clearance was obtained—a gesture he believes should have been replicated in Edo.
According to Wike, “When Peter Obi came to visit me in Rivers, he informed me and security arrangements were made. I wonder why the same courtesy wasn’t extended to Governor Okpebholo. Leadership comes with responsibility—nobody wants harm to befall any visitor.”
He praised Governor Okpebholo’s leadership style, noting that in just eight months, the governor has made tremendous progress. “He hit the ground running, just like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The revival of Edo Line is not just about transportation—it’s a direct strike against insecurity and a boost for students, traders, and travelers across the state.”
Governor Okpebholo, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for what he called “unwavering support” that has translated into development strides across Edo State. He also reaffirmed his focus on service delivery, promising not to be distracted by criticism stemming from his earlier statement about Mr. Peter Obi.
Clarifying his comments, Okpebholo said, “What I said was not a threat; it was advice for Peter Obi’s own safety. As the Chief Security Officer of the state, I must be informed of high-profile visits. That’s the responsible thing to do.”
He referenced a tragic incident during a past administration when one of his security details was killed upon his arrival in Benin City, a memory he said shapes his insistence on security protocol.
The governor further pledged massive support for President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, vowing to deliver 2.5 million votes from Edo. “We are ready to stand with Mr. President. He loves Edo, and we are feeling the impact of that love.”
The event also attracted heavyweights such as Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor; Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa; Chief of Staff, Gani Audu; and former Deputy Governors, Pius Odubu and Lucky Imasuen.
Others in attendance were Gen. Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd), Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, representatives of security agencies, market leaders, youth bodies, and transport stakeholders.
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