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  • I am not at war with MOWAA investors, says Okpebholo

    I am not at war with MOWAA investors, says Okpebholo

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has said that his administration was not at war with investors in the state, including the management of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).

    Governor Okpebholo said he would not hesitate to prosecute any wrongdoing uncovered in the MOWAA project.

    Okpebholo spoke, Friday when he received the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, Benin City.

    He said he remained committed to transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity in the ongoing controversy surrounding MOWAA.

    Governor Okpebholo insisted that his administration was deliberately excluded from crucial information and developments, including the arrival of foreign delegates for what he described as a questionable commissioning ceremony.

    “I didn’t want to speak publicly on this again, but the time has come to state the facts.

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     “At the end of the day, there will be criminal prosecution on this matter. We are not fighting investors. Our duty is to protect Edo State and, by extension, Nigeria. There will be no hiding place for criminals in our land.”

    He stated that available documents obtained by the state showed major changes to MOWAA’s registration details six days before his swearing-in.

    Describing the action as suspicious and deeply troubling, Okpebholo said he was never informed about the arrival of expatriates to the state.

    He said the move reinforced the lack of transparency that has characterized the project’s operations.

    The Minister said the federal government was aware of the MOWAA issues and pledged a collaborative approach to resolving what she termed “an original sin.”

    She said the issue must be addressed to restore dignity to traditional institutions and safeguard Nigeria’s international cultural reputation.

    “Sir, I want you and your fantastic team to work closely with the traditional institution that has been grossly wronged.

     “We want to find a balanced solution that respects history, protects traditional institutions, and strengthens Nigeria’s global credibility. The federal government is willing to listen and support all efforts to bring lasting succour.”

  • Edo Traditional Council hails Okpebholo’s transformational strides

    Edo Traditional Council hails Okpebholo’s transformational strides

    The Eziobe Traditional Council (ETC) of Igarra, in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, has hailed Governor Monday Okpebholo for his exceptional leadership, inclusive governance and remarkable developmental achievements within his first year in office.

    In a statement at the council’s meeting in Igarra, the traditional rulers extolled the governor for demonstrating a clear vision for growth and for restoring the confidence of Edo people in government through visible and people-oriented projects.

    The council applauded the governor for the ongoing rebuilding of the long-abandoned Auchi–Ikpeshi–Igarra–Ibillo Road, describing the project as a major economic lifeline for the people of Akoko-Edo and other travellers.

    The monarchs noted that the road, when completed, would boost commerce, improve accessibility and enhance the quality of life for residents and commuters along that corridor.

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    They also commended the governor for the award of 28 new road contracts covering over 255 kilometres across the three senatorial districts of Edo State, as well as the commencement of the first-ever flyovers at Ramat Park and Adesuwa–Sapele Junction in Benin City.

    “These projects demonstrate a leadership that is both visionary and inclusive,” the council stated.

    “For the first time in many years, rural and urban communities are receiving equal attention in Edo State’s development plan.”

    The statement signed by the Secretary of the council, Sunday Saiki, hailed Governor Okpebholo’s proactive approach to security, citing the enactment of a new anti-cultism law, the recruitment of over 2,500 operatives into the Edo State Security Network, and the provision of operational vehicles and motorcycles to security agencies across the state.

    According to the council, ‘’these initiatives have led to a significant reduction in crime and have made Edo safer for residents, investors, and visitors alike.’’

    The monarchs pledged continued collaboration with the state government and security agencies to ensure lasting peace in their domains.

    The statement also listed the governor’s achievements in the health and education sectors, including the building of new Primary Health Centres in rural communities, establishment of a 100-bed Specialist Hospital in Udomi, and the deployment of diagnostic equipment to enhance medical care delivery across the state.

    In education, the council lauded the employment of over 5,000 teachers, the rehabilitation of 63 public schools, and the increase of monthly subvention to Ambrose Alli University from N41 million to N500 million.

    These, the monarchs said, reflected the administration’s commitment to human capital development and the future of Edo youths.

    The council also praised the N1 billion interest-free loan scheme for small business owners and traders, as well as the governor’s renewed investment in agriculture — increasing the sector’s budget from N4.5 billion to nearly N70 billion, with over 400 hectares of farmland already cultivated and producing harvests.

    “Governor Okpebholo’s leadership has brought a new wave of hope to our people,” the council noted. “His focus on agriculture, education and enterprise empowerment shows Edo’s growth is being built on sustainability and inclusion.”

    It reaffirmed its total support for the administration’s agenda and pledged continuous partnership in the pursuit of peace, prosperity and unity in Edo State.

    “From Akoko-Edo to Esanland and Benin, our people now see government as a partner, not a distant authority. Governor Okpebholo has proven that with sincerity of purpose and fairness to all, Edo can once again take its pride of place as the heartbeat of the nation,” the council said.

  • Okpebholo sacks two traditional rulers

    Okpebholo sacks two traditional rulers

     Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has sacked traditional rulers of Ososo and Ikpeshii/Egbegere Clans, Akoko-Edo local government area.

    The traditional rulers sacked are Bamidele Obaitan of Ososo Kingdom and Zaiki Luckman Odamah III of Ikpeshi/Egbegere clan.

    Their sacking was contained in a statement by Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikhlor.

    The statement said Governor Okpebholo revoked appointments of both Monarchs in the interest of peace, stability, and due process after reviewing circumstances surrounding ongoing disputes relating to the traditional leadership of both communities.

    It said Governor approved appointment of Mr. Nicholas Odamah as the Regent of the Ikpeshi/Egbegere Clan while elders of the four quarters (Unukhus), the Council of Chiefs, and the Elders of Ososo were directed to meet, consult widely, and submit a consensus candidate for appointment to the vacant stool of the Ososo Kingdom.

    According to the statement, “Odamah shall oversee the affairs of the clan in a custodial capacity and ensure full cooperation with government directives.

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    “Submission of a consensus candidate shall be made through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs within a timeframe to be communicated formally by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. This process must reflect the customs, rotation principles, and collective will of the Ososo people.

    “Both Mr. Bamidele Obaitan and Mr. Luckman Odamah are directed to immediately hand over all Government properties, instruments of office, and materials in their possession to the Chairman, Akoko-Edo Local Government Council without delay.”

    Odamah III had earlier protested the appointment of Prof. Roland Otaru as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.

  • Beyond Rhetoric: Okpebholo’s one year of possibilities, moving Edo towards safety, development

    Beyond Rhetoric: Okpebholo’s one year of possibilities, moving Edo towards safety, development

    By Augustine Eboigbe

    On November 12, 2024, Senator Monday Okpebholo took the oath of office as the Governor of Edo State. In just one year, his administration has ushered in a new chapter defined not by memoranda or political showmanship, but by visible, measurable, and meaningful progress. 

    Gone are the days when Edo’s development was stalled by bureaucratic inertia and unfulfilled promises. Today, under Governor Okpebholo’s leadership, the state is witnessing a bold transformation rooted in action, integrity, and a deep commitment to rebuilding trust between government and the people.

    Governor Okpebholo’s journey began amidst a troubled transition. The outgoing administration did not provide a smooth handover. His team inherited a state reportedly burdened by nearly ₦600 billion in debt and stalled or uncompleted projects. Political appointments and contracts were hastily issued in the final days of the previous administration, leaving what could be best described as a booby trap for the incoming government.

    Moreover, many of the grand projects inherited were only agreements on paper, Memoranda of Understanding (MOU’s), that never translated into infrastructure. 

    His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, moved into action from day one, swiftly halting wasteful spending and restructuring governance to prioritize delivery over declarations. His declaration of an end to “cosmetic governance” and deceptive commissioning is laudable: no more ribbons on unfinished projects, no more politics of illusion, only the politics of results.

    Frankly, when Senator Monday Okpebholo took the oath of office as the Governor of Edo State, many expected continuity in the familiar rhythm of promises and rhetoric. Instead, what Edo State has witnessed in just one year is a paradigm shift. From the politics of words to the politics of tangible results.

    Governor Okpebholo’s leadership has redefined governance in Edo, bringing clarity, sincerity, and a renewed sense of direction to a people long yearning for genuine progress.

    In just one year, Edo State under Governor Okpebholo has demonstrated that leadership is not about elaborate speeches or endless memoranda of understanding, but about visible results that improve daily life. 

    His administration has embarked on massive infrastructural projects across the state, constructing and expanding roads, initiating flyovers to ease congestion, and investing in rural electrification and building rural and farm roads to connect long-neglected communities to the grid of development.

    Where the previous administration was known for endless MOUs and publicity ceremonies, Okpebholo’s government is known for foundations, walls, and roofs. Undoubtedly, critics once called Edo’s former system “cosmetic governance.” And the former governor is an MOU governor. Today the story is different; Edo citizens are witnessing an era of concrete governance, one marked by visible projects, community involvement, and a focus on completion, not commencement. 

    In twelve months, the Okpebholo administration has rekindled confidence in public leadership. Edo is no longer defined by words, but by works. No longer by MOUs, but by monuments. No longer by excuses, but by execution. As the state celebrates one year under a governor who builds more than he promises, one truth resonates across its 18 local government areas.

    From education to healthcare, from security to agriculture, the Okpebholo-led administration has been pragmatic, deliberate, and people-centered. Schools are being rehabilitated, teachers are being employed, and students now have renewed hope through government-backed educational interventions.

    In health, the governor’s expansion of primary healthcare centers and ongoing revitalization of general hospitals speak to a government that values life and wellness above politics.

    One of the defining features of Okpebholo’s first year has been his bold stance on security. strengthening security and curbing cultism. Understanding that no development can thrive in chaos, his administration has tackled cultism and cult-related violence with firm resolve. 

    Collaborative measures between the state government, security agencies, and community leaders have led to a significant reduction in violent crimes, restoring peace and stability across volatile areas. 

    Governor Okpebholo campaigned on cracking down on cultism and kidnapping, declaring the battle one that is decisive and irreversible, vowing that every life in Edo matters.

    His government intensified intelligence-led operations, arresting cultists and gunmen. Indeed, Edo is now safer, calmer, and freer than it has been in many years, with nighttime crime drastically reduced. After a long time, security agencies are being given new resources. 

    The state government has provided vehicles, patrol boats, and logistics support to police and the DSS. Okpebholo is also promoting community policing, urging better collaboration between police and local communities. These measures have helped restore public confidence, as more police patrols are more visible and effective than before.

    Through the creation of local community safety networks, increased police support, and improved intelligence gathering, the administration has made Edo safer for businesses, investors, and citizens alike. The results are evident: markets are thriving, night activities have resumed in many areas, and confidence in governance is being restored.

    Governor Okpebholo made a promise that every life in Edo matters; that promise is taking shape in practical, visible reforms. Through collaboration with police, vigilante groups, and community leaders, Edo has seen a sharp decline in cult-related violence and nighttime crime. 

    Patrols have been strengthened, logistics improved, and morale restored. The administration’s emphasis on community policing and intelligence gathering is redefining security as a shared civic duty.

    Healthcare delivery under the Okpebholo administration has witnessed renewed investment and expansion.

    Modernization of medical facilities, improved access to maternal care, and rural outreach programs are making a real difference in the lives of ordinary Edo people. 

    The state’s commitment to preventive healthcare, immunization drives, and the establishment of community health centers across the senatorial districts demonstrate a long-term vision for a healthier Edo.

    Governor Okpebholo’s administration launched major road and bridge works across Edo. For example, the state’s first-ever flyover at Ramat Park Ikpoba Hill, Benin City, is under construction, and many more are like the upcoming flyover on Sapele Road. 

    In addition to these bridges, multiple highways are being rehabilitated and other key corridors are being repaired in partnership with the Federal Government, while many more road projects (paving, drainage, and intersections) are ongoing using durable concrete foundations to ensure longevity. Edo is resurfacing/rebuilding major arteries.

    Governor Okpebholo’s deep humility and reverence for traditional institutions stand out as a model of leadership in modern governance. 

    Recognizing the pivotal role of traditional rulers as custodians of peace and development, he has worked closely with them, fostering mutual respect and collaboration. 

    His frequent consultations with traditional councils underscore his commitment to inclusive governance, one that values the voice of every community and sees cultural heritage as an instrument of unity and growth.

    Beyond development, Governor Okpebholo has redefined political leadership in Edo. He has created a system where the All Progressives Congress (APC) functions freely, with party officials empowered to operate independently and responsibly. 

    His non-interference in party administration has restored discipline, confidence, and cohesion within the APC, allowing internal democracy to thrive. 

    In this, he has proven that political leadership is not about control but about creating an environment where institutions can grow stronger. Okpebholo has sought cross-party cooperation. In a rare bipartisan gesture, it is no more secret as prominent PDP chieftains praise his performance as a transformative governance model that benefits Edo beyond party lines. 

    The governor has publicly stated that he governs for the next generation, not for electioneering. His actions of not politicizing appointments and engaging critics constructively are cited as evidence of respecting institutional processes.

    Today, over 60 public schools are currently being rebuilt or upgraded. For instance, the dilapidated Army Day Secondary School, Benin City, was fully renovated within 8 weeks of Okpebholo’s administration. 

    Other elementary and secondary schools have had leaking roofs repaired, classrooms repainted, and new furniture supplied. These improved conditions have restored parent confidence; student enrollment has surged since the upgrades.

    The administration has attracted outside partnerships to modernize learning. Notably, in October 2025, Okpebholo inaugurated the renovated Ujabholo Grammar School in Uwessan, Esan Central LGA (his alma mater). 

    This project is part of a China-Nigeria school reconstruction initiative; it delivered refurbished classrooms, ICT labs, and a new library. 

    Okpebholo also announced complementary interventions (solar electrification, perimeter fencing, and a 250-computer CBT center) to complete the school’s upgrade. 

    The government is rebuilding the education workforce. It has integrated 5,000 new teachers and 500 civil servants into the public service to reverse years of understaffing.

    For the first time in many years, Edo is experiencing a government that respects the rule of law and adheres strictly to the principle of separation of powers.

    Governor Okpebholo’s administration maintains a healthy relationship with both the judiciary and the legislature, ensuring that each arm of government functions within its constitutional limits. 

    His obedience to court judgments and legislative resolutions reinforces the credibility of his government and rebuilds public trust in democracy.

    Through partnerships with local and international agencies, the government is also driving digital literacy and agricultural empowerment, helping citizens transition from dependency to productivity. 

    This focus on people, not just infrastructure, defines the compassionate core of Okpebholo’s leadership. Obviously, at the heart of Okpebholo’s vision is human capacity development. 

    The administration has prioritized youth and women empowerment through skill acquisition programs, entrepreneurship grants, and job creation initiatives. 

    Thousands of Edo youths have been trained under government-sponsored vocational programs, preparing them for self-employment and innovation.

    One year may be short in the lifespan of an administration, but for Governor Monday Okpebholo, it has been a year of transformational groundwork. A year where possibilities became plans, and plans became visible realities. Edo today stands taller, safer, and more hopeful than it has been in years.

    Governor Okpebholo has proven that true leadership is not about self-promotion but selfless service, about restoring faith in governance and giving citizens a future they can believe in. As Edo celebrates this milestone, one truth is undeniable: the journey has just begun, and the best of Edo is yet to come. A new Edo has indeed risen.

  • Okpebholo lists achievements at first anniversary

    Okpebholo lists achievements at first anniversary

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo yesterday delivered a landmark anniversary address that resonated with optimism, gratitude and renewed determination, as he marked one year of purposeful, people-centred governance.

    Speaking before a distinguished audience in Benin City, the governor said his administration had “restored hope, rebuilt institutions and renewed the people’s confidence in government,” while reaffirming his commitment to deepening reforms across sectors of the state’s economy.

    Governor Okpebholo, whose address formed the highlight of a grand commemorative event, spoke with a tone of humility and resolve, reflecting on a journey that began with daunting challenges, but has now evolved into a story of courage, reform and measurable transformation.

    “Today’s celebration,” he began, “is not just about marking one year in office, but also a testimony that God rules in the affairs of men. I thank the good people of Edo State for their steadfast support before, during and after the 2024 elections.”

    He recounted that upon assumption of office, he met “a state weighed down by rot, debt, insecurity and distrust,” but through focus, prayer and teamwork, his administration had begun to lay a solid foundation for a new era of growth.

    “We came determined to restore hope, and by the grace of God, we have done just that. We are replacing PowerPoint governance with Practical Governance; one that touches lives, revives faith and renews communities,” he said.

    On security, the governor said Edo was previously “almost a war zone” plagued by cultism, armed robbery and kidnapping, with over 300 cult-related killings recorded in 2024 alone.

    “We acted decisively,” he declared. “We repealed the weak anti-cultism law, enacted a stronger one, equipped our security forces with 60 Hilux vans and 400 motorcycles, and recruited 2,500 officers into Edo State Security Corps. Today, Edo is safer, calmer and no longer a sanctuary for criminals.”

    Highlighting the administration’s reforms in health care, Governor Okpebholo described the sector as one of the worst-hit by neglect before his intervention.

    “We met a collapsing system where hospitals lacked basic drugs and health workers were demoralised,” he said.

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    “We have now begun the building of new Primary Health Centres across the 18 wards, equipped diagnostic facilities in councils and started work on a new 100-bed Specialist Hospital in Udomi, Edo Central. Our goal is to make quality health care accessible to every Edo indigene.”

    On infrastructure, the governor noted that his administration had redefined urban renewal and rural development in just one year.

    “We inherited deplorable roads and abandoned communities,” he said. “But today, we have awarded 28 new road projects covering over 255 kilometres. For the first time in our history, two major flyovers; at Ramat Park and Adesuwa-Sapele Road, are under construction simultaneously.”

    He further spoke on agricultural development, revealing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” inspired his government’s aggressive investment in food security. “We raised our agriculture budget from N4.5 billion to over N70 billion.

    “Over 400 hectares have been cultivated, and harvesting has begun. This is Renewed Hope in Action and funds meant for agriculture are now producing food, not funding corruption.”

    On education, Okpebholo said his administration had reversed years of decay in public schools. “When we took office, our children studied in leaking classrooms without teachers or learning materials,” he said. “Today, over 5,000 teachers have been permanently employed, and 63 schools have been renovated and upgraded to modern standards. We also increased Ambrose Alli University’s subvention from N41 million to N500 million monthly. Education is no longer a slogan, it is our priority.”

    In the area of economic reform, the governor revealed that he inherited over N600 billion in local and foreign debts and N180 billion owed to contractors.

    “Through prudent management, we have reduced this burden,” he explained. “We have created over 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, launched a N1 billion interest-free loan scheme for small businesses and traders, and restructured fiscal management to promote transparency and efficiency.”

    Governor Okpebholo also highlighted key achievements in governance, including the restoration of judicial integrity and intergovernmental relations.

    “We swore in judges previously sidelined, re-established the Customary Court and strengthened traditional institutions. Governance in Edo today is no longer about noise, it is about measurable impact and restored dignity,” he said.

    In a deeply reflective tone, the governor expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and guidance, acknowledging that “without his encouragement and support, much of our progress would have been difficult.”

    He also thanked his executive council (exco) members, political leaders, royal fathers and the people of Edo for their loyalty and cooperation.

  • Skyewise boss hails Okpebholo on first  anniversary, lauds progressive ideals 

    Skyewise boss hails Okpebholo on first  anniversary, lauds progressive ideals 

    The Chief Executive Officer of Skyewise Group, Elvis Abuyere, has congratulated the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, on his first anniversary in office as the leader of the South-south state, applauding his visionary and people-oriented leadership since assumption of office. 

    In a congratulatory message on Wednesday, Dr. Abuyere described the governor’s tenure so far as a model of progressive governance anchored on integrity, compassion, and inclusiveness.

    Abuyere, a humanitarian and youth advocate highlighted that the governor has demonstrated that true leadership is measured not by position but by tangible impact and commitment to the collective good of the people.

    “Over the past year, Your Excellency has shown that leadership is not about holding office, but about making a difference. You have consistently demonstrated integrity, compassion, and an unwavering love for the people of Edo State,” Abuyere stated.

    He commended Governor Okpebholo’s efforts in driving growth through inclusive governance and policies aimed at creating a prosperous Edo State where citizens can thrive.

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    Dr. Abuyere further noted that Skyewise Group shares in the governor’s progressive ideals and vision for economic transformation, adding that the company has taken concrete steps to align with his development agenda.

    “At Skyewise Group, we deeply believe in your vision for a prosperous Edo State. In alignment with this vision, we have established one of our finest corporate offices in Benin City to serve the good people of Edo State with excellence across our service lines, including Financial Services, Automobile Solutions, Real Estate, Business Consultancy, Asset Management, and Youth Empowerment,” he said.

    He affirmed that through these initiatives, Skyewise Group remains committed to contributing to the economic growth and social advancement of the state.

    While celebrating the governor’s achievements, Dr. Abuyere prayed for continued divine guidance, wisdom, and renewed strength for Senator Okpebholo as he leads Edo State to greater heights.

    “May God continue to strengthen you, grant you sound health, wisdom, and renewed vision to lead Edo State to even greater heights,” he concluded.

  • First anniversary: Okpebholo pledges people-oriented projects

    First anniversary: Okpebholo pledges people-oriented projects

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has vowed to fulfill his electoral promises by executing projects that directly benefit the people.

    The governor made the declaration while inspecting several ongoing projects to mark his first anniversary in office.

    Among the sites visited were the Adesuwa Junction flyover, the 32-kilometre Benin-Sapele highway, the completed Army Day Secondary School, internal roads in Ogheghe Community, the 23-kilometre old Benin-Sapele highway, the Oba Erediauwa road, and the Ekiuwa-Ugbowo road, among others.

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    At Army Day Secondary School, Governor Okpebholo said all classrooms would be connected to off-grid solar power, and adequate security would be provided. 

    Speaking to journalists, he emphasized his commitment to developing Benin City, saying, “We are working, and the money does not come from my pocket. The funds are given to us to work, to beautify our state, and make it a modern city. My only goal is to develop Edo, build new roads, and improve the lives of our people. This is what you are seeing—our constant efforts day and night.”

    Phoebe Williams-Bello, Special Adviser on Project Monitoring, added that compensation would be paid to landlords affected by the Adesuwa Junction project.

  • Okpebholo revokes MOWAA’s Certificate of Occupancy

    Okpebholo revokes MOWAA’s Certificate of Occupancy

    Edo Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has revoked the Certificate of Occupancy granted to the Museum of West African (MOWAA) by the administration of Godwin Obaseki.

    In the revocation order dated October 21, 2025, Okpebholo said he revoked MOWAA’s C of O in ‘overriding public interest’.

    He cited the authority vested in him by Sections 28 and 38 of the Land Use Decree No. 6 of 1978 (now the Land Use Act).

    Okpebholo said the land previously allocated to the Edo Museum of West African Art Trust (EMOWAA) Ltd/GTE has been reclaimed by the state and would be restored to its original use as the Benin Central Hospital.

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    “Notice is hereby given that in exercise of the power conferred upon me by Section (28) 1 and 38 of the Land Use Decree No. 6 of 1978 and by virtue of all other laws enabling me on that behalf, I, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, Executive Governor of Edo State of Nigeria, hereby revoke the Statutory Rights of Occupancy granted to Edo Museum Of West African Art Trust (EMOWAA) Ltd/GTE for overriding public interest.

    “The land in question, known as Digital Plot No. 61977, Zone HI/A12/Ogboka, Benin City, in Oredo Local Government Area, measures approximately 6.210 hectares and was the site of the demolished Central Hospital.”

  • Okpebholo, EU Ambassador, others meet Oba of Benin over MOWAA controversy

    Okpebholo, EU Ambassador, others meet Oba of Benin over MOWAA controversy

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Monday, led a delegation of European diplomats to the Palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, amid the growing controversy surrounding the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).

    Some of the diplomats were reportedly inside the museum during its Sunday preview event when suspected thugs stormed the venue and forced them to leave.

    Addressing the delegation, Oba Ewuare II urged them to cooperate with the Senator Adams Oshiomhole-led committee set up to investigate issues related to the museum.

    The monarch accused former Governor Godwin Obaseki of attempting to “mortgage” the rights of the Benin people over their ancestral artifacts, alleging that Obaseki became hostile after he refused to sign documents that would have ceded those rights.

    “It is like history wanting to repeat itself,” Oba Ewuare II said. “My forefathers suffered during the British invasion of 1897, and it is not fair that this is happening again. The documents they brought for me to sign would have taken away our rights to these artifacts, and I refused.”

    The Oba further explained that funds had already been raised for the construction of the Benin Royal Museum, which is distinct from MOWAA.

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    Speaking to journalists after the palace visit, Governor Okpebholo expressed surprise that he was not notified about the visit of foreign envoys to Edo State for activities related to MOWAA.

    He described the incident as yet another example of the “lack of transparency” that has trailed the MOWAA project since its inception.

    “We are here with the European and German Ambassadors, and their colleagues from the Netherlands and Belgium, to see His Royal Majesty. They have spoken about areas of collaboration and also about what happened yesterday. Honestly, I wasn’t aware that such a gathering was going to take place; that’s the truth. However, we have spoken with the Oba and gotten his side of the story.”

    “The committee I set up will look into the matter comprehensively and make appropriate recommendations. There will be fairness. 

    “The controversy surrounding MOWAA stems from the lack of openness by the previous government. It is curious how the project evolved from the Benin Royal Museum to the Edo Museum of West African Art (EMOWAA), and now to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), without clarity or consultation with our revered traditional institution.”

    Okpebholo noted that the State Government was never briefed on the project’s financials, ownership structure, or operational details, stressing that even the Oba of Benin had personally expressed concern over its handling.

    “The previous administration never briefed me about MOWAA nor handed over any documentation concerning the project. I know nothing about its transactions or agreements,” he said.

    He further condemned the demolition of the historic Central Hospital in Benin City to make way for MOWAA, noting, “Why destroy a functioning hospital to build a museum? We are proud of our heritage, but development must be responsible and people-centred.”

     EU Ambassador Gautier Mignot said the mission discussed the MOWAA project and the unfortunate incidents that occurred.

    He said they exchanged views in a spirit of dialogue and partnership on how they intended to move forward.

    Mignot explained that the European Union, as an institution, has no direct investment in MOWAA but that some EU member states, including Germany, are partners in the initiative.

    German Ambassador Dr. Annett Günther, in her remarks, commended Governor Okpebholo and the Oba of Benin for their hospitality, reaffirming Germany’s longstanding partnership with Edo State in migration management, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation.

    “I am honoured to have paid a courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty, the Oba of Benin, and His Excellency, the Governor of Edo State,” she said. “During my visit, I will attend the graduation of 450 youths from IT training programmes and visit several project sites. Our cooperation extends beyond development; it includes support for cultural heritage, including the return of over 1,200 Benin Bronzes to Nigeria.”

    “On MOWAA, which is a completely different matter, we are very proud to be a part of and a sponsor of this very unique museum. Not only a museum, a campus, a centre of cherishing Nigerian and Benin heritage and culture in particular.

    “To make this heritage part of our cooperation and available to the people of Benin City, Nigeria, including many foreign visitors.

    “This will be an enormous attraction for tourism, for industry, for investors, for researchers, for architects to come together. But this, of course, this wonderful place of cherishing heritage and culture can only exist and flourish if there is a peaceful environment.

    “And that’s why we regret the incidents of yesterday, but we are looking forward to a peaceful future of the MOWAA and to a normal operation of the MOWAA.”

  • Okpebholo’s giant strides in Edo

    Okpebholo’s giant strides in Edo

    In one year in office, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo is turning heads with his development programmes and projects, writes Solomon Odemwingie

    In just about one year, Edo State is in a silent revolution and the age of renaissance occasioned by the developmental strides of Governor Monday Okpebholo. The level has dramatically changed yet Akpakomiza is not making noise as his humility has brought true democracy to the doorsteps of the people. Governance can now be measured in figures and numbers and not rhetoric as we have seen in the recent past.

    From infrastructure projects like the flyover bridges at Ramat Park, Adesuwa on Sapele Road to various initiatives in education, health care, interest free loans, increase in internally generated revenue, investment strides, legal framework against cultism, disarmament of firearms, renovation of schools, education grants, civil service improved welfare, health insurance to social welfare schemes, the state developmental machines are grinding on and there is no going back.

    The report card of the governor so far in office is loaded with unbelievable chapters in Edo political chronicle. With a formidable team of goal-getting players, Okpebholo is moving towards standing out as one of the best All Progressives Congress (APC) governors in Nigeria.

    Edoline welcomed numerous fleets of vehicles like never before and commuters and travellers now do so with ease. The stresses and strains in the transportation sector in the past have given way to a new comfort and confidence. Adequate attention has also been paid to the rehabilitation and reconstruction of old and new roads without exception. Even major highways hitherto branded as federal roads by the past regime are being resuscitated and macadamised. The action governor has made his party the envy of all. The resultant effect is the large scale defection by political actors to the ruling APC on a daily basis.

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    The education sector has undergone total transformation with the upgrading of the hitherto moribund Usen College of Education to a modern polytechnic, with state of the art facilities in place. Auchi Polytechnic has also been transformed and upgraded remarkably comparable with any other in the country. Edo State University, Iyamho and Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma have similarly witnessed innovations and upgrading. 

     The governor has also put new policies in place to check exploitative excesses of private schools entrepreneurs, thereby making learning easy and more accessible to the poor. Optimistic projections can now be made that the future of Edo is in education.

    There are still more noticeable features of the Okpebholo administration. That he has zero tolerance for cultism and related offences has inspired confidence in the people. He has equipped security personnel in the state with vehicles and mobile machines to comb all nooks and crannies not only to nip in the bud all criminal activities but also to facilitate arrests. In fulfilment of his vow to halt all criminal activities in the state, he has taken the fight to the dens of cultists and criminals, pulling down their structures wherever they are found. He has done this with caution to ensure that the innocent do not suffer for the sin of others.

    Wherever or whenever Akpakomiza features in discussion, people eulogise him. He is not known for casting aspersions on others or even his predecessors. He believes that his works would speak for him.

    A man with a highly developed sense of dignity, his leadership style of setting the standards to be emulated cannot be ignored. He is easy going but firm, as well as respects and accommodates opposite views without coercion. Those close to him compare him with the late Chief Tony Anenih who was noted for hard work and for talking less.

    There is no gainsaying that Okpebholo has laid the foundation for progress across all critical sectors with a divergent developmental programme for governance.

    Okpebholo has lived up  to his words that: “I will restore hope in leadership, create opportunities and set Edo on the path of lasting progress.” Edo State has undergone a high degree of transformation in Okpebholo’s “decisive steps of turning vision into reality.”

    Everyday witnesses a new mark of development. Agriculture has been given a major boost, with the governor procuring tractors to enhance farming. Beaming with smiles after inspecting the harvesting of maize, he reaffirmed his administration’s determination to ensure enough food for the people. “You can see for yourself, I don’t just talk, I do it,” he said without fear of contradiction.

    Practical governance may have come to stay in Edo as Okpebholo has set the standard for future leaders. The governor has given the people practical examples of how best to assess any government that is doing well and ready to identify itself with their yearnings and aspirations. True governance will no longer be in rhetoric, oration, propaganda, fictitious memoranda of understanding or hearsay but visible practice. Dividends of democracy can now be counted in numbers and figures. This will be Okpebholo’s legacy by the time he completes his tenure as governor. He has just started, but Edo people are yearning for more, having seen what he has to offer. They see him as a political leader of immense value. 

    • Odemwingie, a former newspaper editor, writes from Edo