Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has pledged to drive a major infrastructural revolution in the Edo Central Senatorial District, with a particular focus on Esan land.
Okpebholo made the promise during a special reception held in his honor in Ewatto, Esan South East Local Government Area, on Saturday. The event, which marked his recent victory at the election petition tribunal, was organized by philanthropist Dr. Lemon Ikpea.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor expressed his gratitude to the people of Edo for their support and reiterated his commitment to delivering tangible development across the state.
“The people of Edo State will not regret voting for me as their governor,” Okpebholo assured the gathering. “I am proud to be part of a winning party—APC. A party that was once rejected by many is now the party of choice for many, and it will remain so, with the APC-led federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
He further stated that the APC would witness a surge in membership, with defections from other political parties like the PDP and LP, aligning with the ongoing reforms in the South-South region. “Very soon, you will see a lot of defections into APC. This marks the beginning of South-South’s participation in President Tinubu’s reform agenda,” he said.
The governor also emphasized his deep connection with the President, stating, “I am proud to say I am a son of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I carry uncommon grace and transformation, and I am using that grace to develop and transform Edo State.”
Okpebholo outlined key development priorities for his administration, including the construction of motorable roads, the provision of clean drinking water, and efforts to reduce travel time across the state. He also expressed his commitment to ensuring that the development extends to neighboring states in the South-South region. “South-South must speak with one voice as we approach 2027,” he remarked.
The governor also expressed his appreciation to the traditional rulers for their ongoing support. “Running two elections in a year and winning both offices is no small feat. I give God all the glory. I may not be the talking type or someone deeply involved in politics, but my focus is on developing Edo State,” he stated.
Reflecting on his entry into politics, Okpebholo shared that the loss of his sister to an illness caused by contaminated water was a key motivator. “In 2021, we couldn’t find an Esan man willing to contest for Senate under the APC, as many were focused on the PDP. But in 2022, when some people approached me to run for Senate, it opened my eyes to the need for change,” he explained.
“My sister’s death due to bad water pushed me to ensure that safe, clean water is available to every household in Edo State. This is a priority for me,” he added.
During the event, Okpebholo also visited the ongoing medical center project in Idumuiyase, Ewatto, donated by Dr. Ikpea, where he toured the facility and expressed his appreciation for the contributions to the healthcare sector in the region.
Okpebholo’s remarks underline his resolve to drive development in Edo State, with a focus on key infrastructure, public health, and water supply improvements, marking the beginning of a transformative period for the state.
