You Voted for Me for Development, Not Stories” — Governor Okpebholo Reaffirms Commitment at Benin Town Hall

The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed that his administration remains steadfastly focused on a single, non-negotiable mission: delivering visible, people-centred development across Edo State.

Speaking in Benin City at a town hall meeting with members of the Akpakomiza Movement for Tinubu—also known as Team FIGO-Connect—the governor emphasised that the mandate given to him by the people of Edo State was unequivocal.

“You voted for me for a reason, and that reason is the development of Edo State,” Governor Okpebholo declared. “I have a clear vision to move Edo from an ancient city to a modern city, and I am not losing focus.”

He explained that all ongoing projects across the state are driven by the genuine needs of communities rather than personal or political interests, noting that his leadership approach is informed by firsthand experience of the challenges faced by residents.

Recalling a campaign visit to Temboga, the governor said the severity of gully erosion in the area left a lasting impression and directly shaped his development priorities.

“I went to Temboga, and I couldn’t even walk inside because of the depth of the gully erosion. I promised the people I would return if elected, and I kept that promise. Today, the results are visible,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo stressed that development should not be viewed as a personal achievement of the governor, but as a collective success driven by the will and participation of the people.

“Without your votes, I wouldn’t be here. So there is no special thank you to me. What we are seeing today belongs to all of us,” he stated.

On accountability, the governor noted that his administration receives the same statutory allocation as previous governments but has made deliberate choices to invest public funds in projects with lasting impact.

“Our work will speak for us. A time will come when Edo people will ask questions and demand accountability,” he added.

Governor Okpebholo also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold, people-focused economic reforms. He cited the removal of fuel subsidy and ongoing tax reforms, noting that Nigerians earning below ₦150,000 are now exempt from paying personal income tax.

“Our president is carrying the common man along. Leakages have been blocked, and those who were feeding fat on the old system are now uncomfortable,” he said.

Highlighting progress across the state, the governor listed the durable reconstruction of Sapele Road, erosion control and road works in Ogheghe, and interventions in long-neglected public schools as evidence of his administration’s commitment to sustainable development in Edo State.

The meeting was attended by the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Emperor Jarrett Tenebe; the Commissioner for Energy and Water Resources, Barrister Washington Osifo; members of the Edo State Executive Council; and other party leaders.

Also present were members of the Labour Party’s Obedient Movement, who announced the collapse of their structures in Edo State and declared support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Edo State Obedient Movement Coordinator, Comrade Ikhuenbor Felix Igbinevbo, said the decision was based on confidence in President Tinubu’s reform agenda.

“About 95 per cent of those here are members of the Obedient Movement and Labour Party stakeholders. We supported Peter Obi in 2023, but we have resolved to support President Tinubu for a second term because we believe his reforms will benefit the common man,” he said.

The town hall meeting ended with renewed assurances of support for Governor Okpebholo, as participants pledged to work collectively to sustain development and economic growth across Edo State.

SIGNED:
Ebojele Akhere Patrick, PhD
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State