BY MIKE OSAROGIAGBON
It was a historic and solemn event at the Dr. Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, when the newly elected governor of Edo State Senator Monday Okpebholo, and his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, were sworn in, Tuesday in front of expectant and enthusiastic audience.
The Chief Justice of the state, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, administered the oath to the state’s number one and two citizens about 12:55 PM, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the state’s political leadership.
During the event, the newly inaugurated Governor unfolded his administration’s five-point agenda, with a pledge to deliver on these promises over the next four years.
Okpebholo’s agenda focuses on five key priorities: security, infrastructure and road development, affordable healthcare, food and water sufficiency, and value-driven education. The Governor emphasized that the welfare of Edo’s citizens would be his administration’s top priority.
“We are committed to implementing programs designed to foster robust economic growth and improve the lives of our people,” Okpebholo said in his speech, adding that his administration would not betray the trust of the people who elected him.
Security and Law Enforcement
One of the key points in Okpebholo’s speech was his administration’s approach to tackling the state’s security challenges, particularly kidnapping and violent crime. He vowed to take decisive action to restore law and order, stating that improving security would be crucial for enabling economic activities, including agriculture, to flourish.
“For a long time, our people have suffered from the dangers of kidnapping and other violent crimes,” Okpebholo said. “We will be firm in dealing with criminals to ensure the safety and security of our citizens.”
Infrastructure Development
Governor Okpebholo also addressed the urgent need for infrastructure development, particularly the rehabilitation of the state’s roads, many of which are in a poor condition. His administration will prioritize the construction of roads, bridges, and drainage systems to ease transportation and boost economic activity in the state.
“The deplorable state of our roads has hindered movement and commerce. We will immediately begin work to make roads passable and improve transportation for all,” the Governor stated.
Healthcare, Education, and Youth Empowerment
Governor Okpebholo expressed his commitment to improving healthcare services across the state, particularly in underserved rural areas. He also outlined plans to improve education by recruiting teachers and rebuilding dilapidated classrooms. He emphasized that his administration would also focus on empowering the youth by providing skill acquisition programs to enhance self-empowerment.
“We will support small businesses, market women, and young people, giving them access to soft loans and relevant skills for self-reliance,” Okpebholo said.
Cultural Heritage and National Unity
In addition to his focus on economic and social development, Governor Okpebholo reiterated his commitment to preserving Edo’s cultural heritage. He expressed support for the return of the Benin artifacts looted during the British colonial era, pledging to back the Federal Government’s decision to uphold the Oba of Benin as the exclusive custodian of these historical treasures.
A Call for Collaboration
The Governor also emphasized the importance of working collaboratively with other arms of government. He pledged to strengthen the relationship between the Executive and the Edo State House of Assembly, underscoring the importance of democratic institutions for the state’s progress.
“My administration is ready to collaborate with the legislature to ensure that governance is effective and that we meet the needs of the people,” Okpebholo said.
A Historic Moment for Edo State
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by thousands of citizens, dignitaries, and political figures. After taking the oath of office, Governor Okpebholo and his deputy, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, inspected a guard of honor, followed by a parade organized by the Nigeria Police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigerian Correctional Service.
Among the prominent figures present at the event were Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, the Oba of Benin’s representatives, including Chief Oghafua Oyeoba, the Oyeoba of Benin, and Chief Igiemwin George Ekhator, the Obasogie of Benin.
Several APC governors, including Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Hope Uzodinma of Imo, and Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto, also attended the ceremony, along with the National Chairman of the APC, Umar Ganduje, and former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole.
The oath taking was witnessed by the families of both Governor Okpebholo and his deputy Dennis Idahosa.
