Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced significant strides in the state’s security landscape, declaring that kidnappers have been flushed out from notorious flashpoints and cultism has been curbed to its barest minimum.
Speaking during an event at Government House to mark this year’s Democracy Day celebration, Governor Okpebholo stated that his administration is committed to building a new Edo—one that safeguards its people and delivers measurable progress.
He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to serve the collective interest of Edo people, stressing that June 12 symbolizes more than a political event—it is a call to justice, unity, and purposeful leadership.
Paying tribute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Okpebholo described him as “a true hero of our time,” noting the President’s courage in pushing through transformative reforms despite immense challenges.
“In the face of uncertainty and pressure, Mr. President has done what many before him could not—steering the nation toward a brighter path,” he said. “Just as Chief M.K.O. Abiola stood for hope and democracy, President Tinubu has drawn from that legacy to reignite a vision of renewed hope for Nigeria.”
Highlighting progress in security, the Governor explained that these successes were not accidental but the result of a deliberate strategy involving community intelligence and the establishment of the Edo State Security Corps.
“To date, over 2,500 operatives, trained by the Nigerian Army and Police, have been deployed across our streets, schools, and communities to ensure safety and restore public confidence,” he revealed. “These are not political gimmicks—they are real, impactful measures that reflect what leadership can accomplish when guided by vision and will.”
Governor Okpebholo urged citizens to stay united in upholding the values of democracy—culture, unity, and progress—as the state positions itself not only as the heartbeat of the nation but as a model for others.
“We’re not here to make noise—we’re here to make a difference. And with your continued support, Edo will set the standard for governance in Nigeria,” he affirmed.
Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, commended the Governor for fostering bipartisan collaboration, assuring that the legislature would work with him to ensure the fulfillment of his promises to the people.
In his remarks, APC State Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, congratulated Nigerians on 26 years of uninterrupted democracy and praised the Governor for rescuing the state from what he described as “eight years of anti-democratic misrule.”
Delivering a goodwill message, Senator Mathew Uroghide—APC leader in Edo South and former Director of Administration and Logistics for Chief M.K.O. Abiola’s 1993 presidential campaign—recalled the long struggle for democracy, noting that Edo sons played crucial roles in the June 12 movement.
Prominent APC chieftain, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, lauded Governor Okpebholo’s political leadership for persuading members of the opposition to join the APC, thereby giving the party a majority in the House of Assembly.
Also speaking, Gen. Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd), APC leader in Edo Central, praised the Governor’s democratic credentials, citing his performance in the past six months as evidence of genuine leadership.
The event’s highlight was the defection of Senator Neda Imasuen, representing Edo South Senatorial District, from the Labour Party to the APC.
Notable attendees included the Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa; Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor; Chief of Staff Gani Audu; former Deputy Governor Pius Odubu; Acting State APC Deputy Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh; State APC Secretary, Engr. Lawrence Okah; State Youth Leader, Tony Adun; commissioners, special advisers, and members of the State House of Assembly, among others.