The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Okpebholo

  • Okpebholo sets out 5-point agenda for Edo devt.

    Okpebholo sets out 5-point agenda for Edo devt.

    Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo on Tuesday unveiled a five-point agenda for the development of the state after he was sworn in as the 5th civilian governor of the state.

    Okpebholo, in his inaugural speech, pledged to prioritise security, infrastructure, healthcare, food sufficiency, and education.

    The governor declared war on criminals, saying the era of incessant kidnapping and other violent crimes was over.

    “Our citizens is top priority for us. To achieve this, we shall implement programmes carefully outlined in my five-point agenda, designed to grow robust economic growth and improve the lives of our people.

    “We will not betray this confidence you have reposed in me and the Deputy Governor, Rt. Honourable Dennis Idahosa,” Gov. Okpebholo said.

    While bemoaning incessant cases of kidnapping and other crimes, the governor said his administration would be firm in dealing with criminals and improve the security of the state.

    “For a long time now, our people have become victims of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

    “To end this ugly situation, we will be firm in dealing with criminals and improve the security of our land so that farming and other business activities will flourish again.

    “The deplorable condition of our roads has made it difficult for people to move from one part of the state to another

    “Our policy to develop road infrastructure is targeted at constructing roads, drainages, and bridges to ease transportation for all.

    “We shall immediately commence work to make the roads passable again.

    “We are also ready to partner with the Federal Government, the private sector, non-governmental organisations, those in the diaspora, and other stakeholders, to develop our state across all sectors”, he said.

    According to him, the new administration will support small businesses and market women with soft loans.

    “Our teeming youthful population will not be left out. We shall support them to acquire relevant skills for self-empowerment.

    “My administration shall immediately swing into action to recruit teachers and rebuild the deplorable classrooms.

    “Tertiary education will be strengthened in many ways, too, to ensure quality education,” Okpebholo said.

    The new governor announced a panel of inquiry into the remote cause of the failure to inuagurate 14 House of Assembly members-elect in the state in 2019 for seventh assembly.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Okpebholo, Idahosa sworn-in as Edo Governor, Deputy

    “Fellow citizens, my administration is ready to link communities that have not yet been connected to the national grid to ensure that they have electricity.

    “Our traditional institution shall be given the necessary support to play their role as custodians of our rich cultural heritage.

    “It is in recognition of this that my administration shall support the decision of the Federal Government to uphold the Oba of Benin as the exclusive owner of the returned artefacts, that were looted by British Colonial Forces during the Benin Massacre of 1897,” he said.

    He promised to work closely with other arms of government to strengthen democracy and good governance in the state.

    (NAN)

  • Shettima, others grace inauguration of Okpebholo as Edo Governor

    Shettima, others grace inauguration of Okpebholo as Edo Governor

    Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday led the Federal Government delegation to grace the inauguration of Sen. Monday Okpebholo as the fifth democratically elected governor of Edo.

    Shettima was joined by governors across the country, who were elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The APC governors include  Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Hope Uzodinma of Imo, and Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto, among others.

    The National Chairman of the APC, Dr Umar Ganduje and his predecessor, now Sen. Adams Oshiomhole were also part of the ceremony, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin.

    Amidst heavy crowd and security presence, Okpebholo, accompanied by his two daughters, took the oath of office and allegiance at 1:00p.m administered by the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Daniel Okungbowa.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Okpebholo, Idahosa sworn-in as Edo Governor, Deputy

    Earlier, Dennis Idahosa, accompanied by his wife, had mounted the podium to take the oath as the Deputy Governor of the state.

    The governor later went ahead to inspect the guard of honour as well as parade by the officers and men of the Nigeria Police.

    (NAN)

  • Okpebholo, Idahosa: New era in Edo

    Okpebholo, Idahosa: New era in Edo

    Senator Monday Okpebholo will take over from Governor Godwin Obaseki today in Edo State. Deputy Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU examines the challenges that will confront the new administration.

    A new chapter opens in Edo State today as Governor Godwin Obaseki vacates the Ogbemudia House, Benin city, for his sucessor, Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Obaseki’s dream of handing over to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) flagbearer, Asue Ighodalo, crumbled at the recent poll, where the APC suprisingly bounced back.

    One of the achievements treasured by governors is the ability to handover to party colleagues, who are trusted to defend and build on their legacies. That feat eluded the two-time governor, who governed Edo on the platforms of APC and PDP.

    Although the battle between Ighodalo and Okpebholo has shifted from the ballot box to the tribunal, PDP is counting its losses while APC is counting its blessings.

    Edo is PDP and APC state. Its first governor in this dispensation, Lucky Igbinedion, ran its affairs for eight years on the platform of the PDP. He handed over to Senator Monday Osunbor, but the stolen mandate was restored to Adams Oshiomhole, who waged war against the godfathers, led by Chief Tony Anenih, to retain power for eight years.

    The former labour leader handed over to Obaseki, but the relations turned sour, making the governor to defect from the PDP to the APC.

    APC and PDP resumed hostilities ahead of the governorship poll. They were careful in selecting competent people as candidates. Okpebholo, a grassroots politician, is a senator. Ighodalo is a financial expert, investor and lawyer. The candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Olumide Akpata, former president of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) merely warmed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) register. He could not fly on poll day, despite the bravado and threats by the disarticulated, scattered and structureless Obedients

    The two main parties also zoned their tickets to Edo South, which has not produced a governor, the temporary crowning of Osunbor notwithstanding. PDP and APC had previously zoned the governorship ticket to Edo Central in the spirit of equity, fairness and  justice.

    The candidates embarked on aggressive campaigns, backed by their formidable structures and financial resources.

    Read Also: EFCC clears Goje’s daughter for alleged naira abuse invites Nigerien bridegroom

    Their selections of running mates were also strategic. They chose from the South, in recognition of its high population and voting strength. Ighodalo’s running mate, Osarodion Ogie, former Secretary to Government, and Denis Idahosa, House of Representatives member, who paired with Okpebholo, were well known personalities in the State. While Osagie Ize-Iyamu played a crucial role in the emergence of Okpebholo as standard bearer, the need for inclusion necessitated the choice of Idahosa, who is a follower of Oshiomhole, as runing mate.

    Indeed, key gladiators in both APC and PDP were not strangers to one another. But, politics threw the wedge between the two platforms. They could also not overcome politics after the election. For example, the transition has not been seamless. The presentatives of Okpebholo and Ighodalo have been at war during the meetings of the joint committees.

    Also, Obaseki has accused the APC of vendetta, insinuating that the anti-graft body was being instigated to clamp down on key functionaries of his government.

    As from today, eyes will be on Okpebholo and his deputy, Idahosa. Both are expected to vacate the National Assembly and relocate to Benin city, the state capital. Then, the struggle for the vacant seat in Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovie Federal Constituency will start.

    The governor’s attention may be distracted by post-election litigation. The case is expected to terminate at the Supreme Court. It may take up to a year.

    Okpebholo is expected to make crucial appointments, which are expected to reflect the diversity in the state. The partisan exercise may be hectic, judging by the need to satifying the criteria that are germane to inclusion and unity.

    Historically, Edo governors who profitted from godfatherism are fond of packaging still resistance to remote control. While Oshiomhole was the pillar of support for Obaseki, the cordial relations did not last.

    During the campaigns, Oshiomhole was at the forefront. Would the two still continue to work together, fortify and strengthen the APC ahead of future challenges.

    Edo looks forward for a better and brighter future. There is much work to me done, judging by the huge infrastructural deficit across the three senatorial districts. The governor that the state would remember for long is a governor of infrastructural development.

    It is not part of the mandate of the governor to witch-hunt perceived opponents. He should proceed to implement his blueprint and tackle the problems threatening the state across the sectors.

    Obaseki has tried his best. The onus is now on Okpebholo to prove his worth. Schools have to be rebuilt and rehabilitated. Many roads require reconstruction and rehabilitation. Pensioners need succour, public servants deserve regular salaries.

    Raising and spending of money is the business of government. The new governor should strive to expand the state’s revenue base.

    Obaseki claimed that he had made efforts to hunt for investors. This should be sustained. Industrialisation will create jobs and this should be tge target of the new helmsman.

    Okpebholo may come with new styles. But the bottom line is the defense of public welfare. There is need for transparency. A corrupt government cannot wrought miracles. Graft can only draw Edo backwards. Therefore, the governor should shun the culture of ‘steal and go.’ Transparency should be the watchword.

    According to observers, Okpebholo will succeed if he avoids the mistakes and errors of the previous administrations.

  • Ogbemudia Stadium hosts Tinubu, others at Okpebholo’s inauguration

    Ogbemudia Stadium hosts Tinubu, others at Okpebholo’s inauguration

    • Governor-elect receives report of APC transition committee
    • Itua becomes CPS

    Edo State Government-owned Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, which is wearing a new look, will today host President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, other leaders and chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as well as personalities, at the inauguration of Governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo.

    The governor-elect yesterday at the highbrow Viewpoint Hotel and Suites, in Government Reservation Area (GRA), Benin, received the report of the 25-member APC transition committee, which was put in place on October 14 and chaired by a former deputy governor of Edo State, Dr. Pius Odubu.

    He said Okpebholo would find the committee’s recommendations useful in charting a new roadmap that would signpost a new dawn in Edo State, stressing that the issues involved were not only important, but would also form a strong basis to understand the status report of Edo.

    He said: “A snippet of some of our recommendations will suffice. We recommended a review of all Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) on the management of the Central Hospital and Stella Obasanjo Hospital, both in Benin. We recommended that the local and foreign debts must be accounted for. All employment carried out in recent past should be cancelled.

    “The incoming Edo governor should investigate the true ownership of Ossiomo Power Plant and Raddisson Blu Five-Star Hotel in Benin City. The same with Museum of West Africa Art (MOWAA), Edo, at the site of the demolished Central Hospital, Benin City. We deserve to know the state’s equity in these companies, as the outgoing government went blank on these enquiries.

    Read Also: Okpebholo appoints Fred Itua as Chief Press Secretary

    “We also demanded a comprehensive review of the World Bank-funded Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EdoBEST) programme, and that a probe should be instituted to uncover its rather opaque operations. All major contracts issued by Edo State Government under the Ministry of Roads and Bridges should be reviewed, as they appeared not to have followed due process, including payment advance awarded to the contractors.

    Obaseki’s government could not account for the number of teachers in Edo State. Hence, we demand a proper teacher head count.”

    Responding, Okpebholo said the committee’s report would be useful to his administration.

    The governor-elect had earlier appointed Fred Itua as his Chief Press Secretary (CPS).

    The appointment, the first by the incoming administration, will take effect from today.

  • Governor Okpebholo: A bright Edo beckons

    Governor Okpebholo: A bright Edo beckons

    • By Fred Itua

    Sophocles, a Greek philosopher and writer in his Play, Antigone, noted: ‘I have nothing but contempt for the kind of governor who is afraid, for whatever reason, to follow the course that he knows is best for the State.’ As Senator Monday Okpebholo assumes office today as the 6th elected Governor of Edo State, Sophocles’ sacred letters ring out loud.

    Okpebholo’s emergence as the Governor of Edo State is both symbolic and historic. First, it has eclipsed the long marginalisation of the Esan (Ishan) ethnic group. In the last 33 years, the ethnic group, despite its cerebral population, has only held sway as managers of the State for an infinitesimal period of one year and six months. Today, Edo people have proven to the rest of the world that everyone in the State matters.

    Senator Okpebholo is not oblivious to the enormous tasks ahead of him. He is not also unaware of the damage the eight years of cankerworms and caterpillars Godwin Obaseki ruinously brought upon Edo people. Okpebholo may not have the full grapse of Obaseki’s damage yet. He is, however, ready to change the narratives, notwithstanding.

    The emergence of Senator Okpebholo signals a new era of hope, progress, and transformative leadership. Born from humble beginnings, Okpebholo’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to service. Despite the financial constraints faced by his family, his parents instilled in him the values of hard work, honesty, and perseverance. These early lessons would shape his character and lay the foundation for his future successes

    Upon laying a strong foundation, Monday Okpebholo ventured into the world of business with a bold vision and unwavering determination. Drawing upon his innate entrepreneurial spirit and keen business acumen, he established successful ventures across various industries.

    Through strategic decision-making, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, Okpebholo’s businesses flourished, creating jobs, driving economic growth, and contributing to the socio-economic development of Nigeria and Edo State.

    Motivated by a desire to effect positive change and uplift the lives of his fellow citizens, Okpebholo transitioned into the realm of politics and public service. Recognising the need for visionary leadership and principled governance, he answered the call to serve his kinsmen and champion the aspirations of the people. As the Senator representing Edo Central Senatorial District, Monday distinguished himself as a principled leader, a tireless advocate for justice and equality, and a voice for the voiceless.

    As a Governor, his conviction will be grounded in a profound commitment to the people of Edo State and a bold vision for the future. He envisions a State where every citizen has access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

    His economic blueprint prioritises job creation, infrastructural development, and investment in key sectors,  such as agriculture, technology, and tourism.

    Okpebholo is a firm believer in the transformative power of good governance, transparency, and accountability. He has pledged to govern with integrity, fairness, and inclusivity, ensuring that the voices of all Edo citizens will be heard and adequately represented.

    Read Also: Tinubu honours Ogoni Martyrs

    Central to Okpebholo’s leadership philosophy is a deep-seated belief in servant-leadership and people-centred governance. He understands that leadership is not about wielding power or advancing personal agendas but about serving the needs and interests of the people.

    Senator Okpebholo will lead by example and demonstrate humility, empathy, and a genuine concern for the welfare of his constituents – Edo people. He will foster collaboration, dialogue, and consensus-building and recognise that collective action is essential for driving meaningful change and progress.

    Okpebholo’s vision for Edo State is grounded in a grassroots approach that prioritises community engagement, outreach, and empowerment. He understands the importance of connecting with people on a personal level, listening to their concerns, and earning their trust.

    Okpebholo represents the embodiment of hope, progress, and transformative leadership. His life story, marked by resilience, determination, and a commitment to service, resonates with the aspirations of the people of Edo State.

    With his vision, integrity, and proven track record of success, Okpebholo is poised to lead Edo State into a new era of prosperity, unity, and inclusive development.

    As the Governor of Edo State, he will not retreat and place his responsibilities on the shoulders of others. He will make tough decisions that will move Edo forward. Unlike Obaseki, who earned himself a name as the most famous MoU Governor, Okpebholo will rely on the expertise of the vibrant Edo State Civil Service and other capable hands he will hire to drive home his agenda for the Heart Beat of the Nation.

    Okpebholo repeatedly assured during the campaigns that ‘Edo will witness a new development. This is the time the civil servants in the state will have a free hand and enjoy their job. There will be no consultants coming from somewhere to do their jobs. We will give them a chance to do their job. Their salaries would be guaranteed and no one would reduce their salary.’

    As an ICT guru, Okpebholo will harness the skills of Edo entrepreneurial youths and make the State the hub of IT experts in the West of the Savanah. Under his watch as Governor, the vibrant youths of Edo will be put to gainful use and add to the growth and prosperity of the State.

    No section, ethnic group, or religious aligners will be left out in Okpebholo’s Government. With him as the Captain of the ship, Edo State will berth successfully, and the people shall echo the Book of Proverbs 29:2, that ‘When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.’

    Rohini Nilekani, an Indian writer, author, and philanthropist, posited that ‘As citizens, we have to co-create good governance, we cannot outsource it and hope to be passively happy consumers. Like everything worth its while, good governance must be earned.”

    What more can I add than to urge Edo sons and daughters to rally behind their worthy son, Okpebholo. He will make Edo State safe and great again.

    From the Kukuruku Hills in Iyamho to the Anthills in Udomi; vast arable lands in Sobe, to the oil-rich Gele Gele; fear not! With Governor Monday Okpebholo, AKA, Akpako-Messiah, help has come!

    As a Christian, I offer this prayer from the second stanza of a hymn, titled Abide With Me by Henry Francis Lyte for Governor Okpebholo.

    ‘Abide with me, fast falls the eventide. The darkness deepens Lord, with me abide. When other helpers fail and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, oh, abide with me.’

    May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, rest and abide with Governor Monday Okpebholo, now and forevermore, amen.

    Long Governor Okpebholo!

    Long live Edo State!

    Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

    Fred Itua is the spokesman to Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo

  • Edo Gov-Elect Okpebholo makes first appointment

    Edo Gov-Elect Okpebholo makes first appointment

    Edo Governor-Elect Senator Monday Okpebholo has named Fred Itua as his Chief Press Secretary, making it the first appointment made by the incoming administration. 

    Itua’s appointment came ahead of the inauguration of the new administration in Benin tomorrow. 

    Itua, an accomplished writer, journalist, and communications consultant with over 13 years of experience, is recognised for expertise in covering diverse and critical issues, from humanitarian crises to national governance. 

    Known for his strategic and resourceful approach, Itua excels in crafting compelling narratives and breaking down complex topics for wide audiences. With extensive experience covering the National Assembly, migration issues, health, anti-corruption, and environmental concerns, Fred possesses deep insight into national and international affairs. 

    With a strong foundation in public relations and communication strategy, Itua effectively builds and maintains relationships across government, media, and public spheres.

    Read Also: Why Okpebholo pulled out of Obaseki’s transition team

    Itua demonstrates resilience, diligence, and professionalism in fast-paced environments, making him adept at both live and pre-recorded broadcasting, news writing, and editorial roles. 

    Skilled in content development, social media management, and comprehensive media strategies, Itua is committed to delivering accurate, high-impact journalism. 

    Itua holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, a Masters degree in Media Arts from the University of Abuja and is in the final stages of his Ph.D. thesis in Development Communication at Veritas University, Abuja.

  • Okpebholo appoints Fred Itua as Chief Press Secretary

    Okpebholo appoints Fred Itua as Chief Press Secretary

    Edo Governor-Elect, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, on Monday announced the appointment of Mr Fred Odianosen Itua as his Chief Press Secretary.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the appointment,  the first of the incoming administration, would take effect on November 12, 2024, according to a statement signed by Okpebholo.

    Read Also: Why Okpebholo pulled out of Obaseki’s transition team

    Itua is a distinguished journalist with a wealth of experience, having previously served as the Assistant Political Editor at The Sun Newspapers

    (NAN)

  • Obaseki dissolves cabinet ahead of Nov. 12

    Obaseki dissolves cabinet ahead of Nov. 12

    Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo has dissolved his cabinet ahead of the Nov.12  swearing-in of Sen. Monday Okpebholo, of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the new governor of the state.

    The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that Obaseki who came into office on November 12, 2016 is expected to end his eight years tenure on November 12, 2024.

    Obaseki dissolved the cabinet shortly after a valedictory session held at the Government House on Friday in Benin.

    The motion for the dissolution of the State Executive Council for 2020-2024 was moved by his deputy, Godwins Omobayo, and was seconded by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Osilama Okuofu.

    At the valedictory session, the governor commended members of the council for helping him in driving the government’s vision of making Edo great again.

    Obaseki also commended citizens of the state for supporting, praying and collaborating with his administration throughout his tenure.

    Members of the cabinet  took turns to eulogise the governor and acknowledged his many achievements in various sectors.

    They also commended the governor for the opportunity given to them to serve the people of the state in their various capacities.

    The outgoing commissioners and Heads of Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) also took turns to present awards and gifts to honour the governor.

    The valedictory session for the outgoing state executive council climaxed with a dinner in honour of the state governor.

    (NAN)

  • Focus on good governance, Ganduje counsels Edo governor-elect Okpebholo

    Focus on good governance, Ganduje counsels Edo governor-elect Okpebholo

    • Focus on good governance, Ganduje counsels Edo governor-elect Okpebholo

    • ‘There’s no need to probe Obaseki’

    The National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has advised Edo State Governor-elect Monday Okpebholo against probing the outgoing administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki.

    Ganduje gave the advice when Okpebholo visit APC’s National Working Committee (NWC) at the party’s national secretariat yesterday in Abuja.

    The national chairman asked Okpebholo to focus on giving the state good governance when he assumes office.

    “The ideals of democracy were upheld, the election was executed, and we are on the winning side. You should not focus on the previous administration. Look forward; don’t look back, and don’t waste your time fighting the person you took over from. There is no need (for doing so). A progressive government does not have time for that.

    Read Also: Seven things to know about late veteran actor Agbako

    “Focus on the manifesto you painstakingly produced; follow it to the letter with the socio-economic development of the people; and build bridges. Establish good relationships with the stakeholders; think forward and be an action governor,” he counseled the incoming governor.

    Ganduje recalled that during the campaign, Okpebholo was an action candidate and has now become an action governor-elect.

    The national chairman said the APC believed that he would succeed and make the people of Edo State proud.

    Okpebholo said winning the election was not an easy task.

    The governor-elect noted that the presence of Ganduje in Edo State before the election played a significant role in the party’s success at the poll.

    “It wasn’t an easy one. I know how many times the chairman called me, asking how I was preparing for the election.

    “He said he wanted to be in Edo State five days before the election. Yes, he came to the state; he was there and everybody knew he came, and his impact was great,” he said.

    Okpebholo expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the President helped the party to secure Edo State and ensure absolute peace in the state during and after the election.

  • Waiting for Okpebholo to mount the saddle in Edo

    Waiting for Okpebholo to mount the saddle in Edo

    • By Solomon Odemwingie

    On November 12, a new sheriff will be in town in Edo, as Senator Monday Okpebholo is sworn in as governor of the Heartbeat state, Solomon Odemwingie writes.

    Edo State will welcome its new governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, after his inauguration on November 12, about three weeks from now. Things will no longer be the same as the liberation movement towards true democracy where the welfare of the people matters begins to receive swift attention.

    Okpebholo will identify with the hopes and aspirations of the people as against the antics of those who constituted a clog in the wheel of democracy and held the state by the jugular for years.

    Some people fought for this day to come. They are former Governor Adams Oshiomhole and the unsung hero of Edo democracy, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, a former governorship candidate, the state chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jaret Tenebe, and former Deputy Governors Lucky Imasuen and Pius Odubu whose immense contributions to Okpebholo’s victory cannot be forgotten.

    Deputy Governor-elect Dennis Idahosa  also garnered support for the party. Throughout the campaign, he was always on the move. Senator Matthew Urhoghide headed the frontline campaign team while the Deputy Chairman, Edo South, Benson Edosomwan was busy working the grass roots.

    It is on record that Ize-Iyamu, a gifted and savvy politician, withdrew from the governorship race and urged his followers to support Okpebholo because of the understanding that it was time for Edo Central Senatorial District to produce the next governor.Many party faithful are waiting for more events to unfold in future to justify the confidence reposed in their leaders because of this singular gesture. After all, as the amiable pastor would often say, election is not a do-or-die but the triumph of the will of the people.

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) took the opposite path and that was the last straw that broke the camel’s back. Armed with their voter’s card, the people were determined to prove the leadership of the PDP wrong. They did it in grand style. The presence of adequate security men prevented rigging and thuggery. Snatching of ballot boxes was checked as area-boys withdrew into their shells.

    The beauty of democracy is in recognising where the power of individuals stop. The PDP leadership failed in this regard. Also, the leadership was found wanting over some questionable behaviour towards tradition and culture which Edo people do not joke with. This, to the people, constitutes a grave offence.

    As a result, the PDP strong hold in Edo South became divided between those who accepted late apology through body language and those who were not in a hurry to forgive the party. In addition, top leaders of the party had broken away and pitched tent with the APC. Among such great politicians were Urhoghide, two former members of the House of Representatives, Omosede Igbinedion, and Ogbeide Ihama, and a host of others. Those who grumbled over the running of the party were there for the APC. In fact, the PDP was near empty. In Edo Central, the voters were divided by the two sons of the soil, the major contestants – Okpebholo and PDP candidate Asue Ighodalo.

    The battle field then shifted to Etsako where Oshiomhole and the arbitrarily impeached Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, Obaseki’s estranged facilitator, who paved the way to his rise to prominence, teamed up to sweep almost all the votes. Whoever is talking of rigging should do a rethink. The PDP broke its own calabash, as they say. As for the Labour Party, it could not have performed more than it did because Edo people felt that its presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, was not in a position to pick who becomes governor for Edo People. Moreover, the people remembered as if it was yesterday, the advice left behind by the late Dr. Samuel Ogbemudia that Edo people should learn not to be in opposition to the government at the centre.

    Read Also: Obaseki to Okpebholo: wait till Nov 12 to begin governance

    Okpebholo’s antecedents are well known. He is not likely to change now as a developer, public spirited character and man of the people who knows his onions, his soil and his tradition without pretences. His era will witness rapid developments reminiscent of the epoch of the late Ogbemudia and recently, Oshiomhole.

    Education will receive more attention. So also will infrastructure. More roads will be constructed and the dilapidated ones reconstructed and well macadamised. Trade will boom as all forms of artificial scarcity would be stopped by the abolition of all cartels and unions inflating prices. More importantly, is Okpebholo’s arsenal against hunger. In accordance with his electoral promises, the Ekpoma Rice Mill and the cassava mills in the state will be revived to produce enough food for consumption and exportation to boost revenue.

    He has promised to employ 5,000 teachers as soon as he assumes office. Okpebholo is not the kind of politician who would renege on his electoral promises. As a politician who worked closely with the late Chief Tony Anenih, he knows the danger of toying with the wishes and aspirations of the people.

    He may not be an orator who likes painting the pictures of unseen things without much or nothing on the ground to show, but like Anenih would say, “it is better to listen to people carefully, gather ideas from them and enrich yourself with what they have in their heads. By the time you come out with yours, you become a very good political administrator and richer in wisdom.”

    The election has been won and lost. It is time for governance. As a seasoned politician, Okpebholo will not discard what is good. He will complete projects started by his predecessors, especially those that concern youth empowerment, after a needs assessment. He will welcome ideas that will ensure his administration’s success and will not run a one-man show. Edo people are waiting for Okpebholo and the many good days ahead under his watch.

    •             Odemwingie was an editor in Daily Times