From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to confronting and defeating the twin scourges of cultism and kidnapping, which have long plagued the state.
Speaking at a special Thanksgiving service held at the Government House Chapel to mark his 55th birthday, the governor disclosed that his government is winning the war against the two criminal vices.
Represented at the thanksgiving by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Fred Itua, Okpebholo recalled that just 48 hours after his inauguration in November 2024, he was confronted with the grim reality of cult-related violence that claimed the lives of over 20 young people in Edo State while he was away on an official assignment in Akure, Ondo State.
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“News of that tragedy reached me in Ondo barely two days after I assumed office. Right there, I vowed to fight cultism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities to a standstill. Nine months on, by God’s grace and with the support of Edo people, we are winning that war,” he declared.
The governor stated that his administration came at a time of turbulence and uncertainty in the state but has since provided stability, restoring confidence among the citizenry, adding, “This is a government that makes promises and keeps them. Whether it is security, roads, schools, or healthcare, we are delivering for the people of Edo State.”
The Thanksgiving service drew government functionaries, advisers, religious leaders, and associates, who used the occasion to extol the governor’s leadership and developmental strides.
Special Adviser on Electronic Media, Mr. Paul Ezenwa, congratulated the governor on his birthday and underscored the significance of his leadership style, saying, “Many doubted him before he assumed office, but for those of us who believed in him, he has not disappointed. Edo people should continue to support him with prayers as he drives the state forward.”
Similarly, the Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Andrew Iyamu, lauded the governor for demonstrating wisdom in appointing credible men and women to key positions, disclosing that despite not having any personal connection to the governor, he was appointed strictly on merit, reflecting Okpebholo’s inclusive and performance-driven leadership.
“In nine months, roads, schools, flyovers, and other infrastructure are springing up across the three senatorial districts. The governor is on a rescue mission to put smiles on the faces of Edo people and to reverse years of retrogression,” Dr. Iyamu said.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Godswill Inegbe, described Governor Okpebholo as a humble leader whose Christian faith shapes his service. “He is not ashamed to be identified as a born-again Christian, and that moral compass is reflected in his work for Edo people.”
Clergymen present at the thanksgiving also lent their voices in appreciation of the governor’s efforts. Reverend Ezele Frank commended Okpebholo’s courage in tackling cultism head-on, a menace which, he noted, previous administrations avoided or addressed half-heartedly.
“This is the first time any governor will stick out his neck to confront cultism directly. His determination is saving lives, healing communities, and uniting our people,” Rev. Frank stated, adding that the governor is a detribalised Nigerian who appoints based on competence rather than ethnic affiliation.
Apostle Sule Farade, Special Adviser on Religion and Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, described the governor’s emergence as divinely ordained. “Governor Okpebholo is God-sent to bring peace and development to Edo State. His reign will fulfil God’s plan for our land,” he said.
The Thanksgiving service concluded with prayers for the governor’s continued health, wisdom, and strength, as well as for peace and prosperity in Edo State.
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