Okpebholo Reaffirms Inclusive Governance, Promises Fair Representation for Owan People

Kingsley Ohens reporting For Urbanscoopnews

Benin City, Nigeria — February 18, 2026

Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and equitable development, assuring citizens that no community will be marginalised under his leadership.

The governor gave the assurance on Wednesday while receiving members of Owan Conscience, a socio-political group led by its Chairman, Hon. Richard Ofen-Imu, Esq., during a courtesy visit to Government House in Benin City.

Addressing the delegation, Okpebholo emphasised that his administration is anchored on fairness, justice and due process, noting that sustainable development can only be achieved when all communities are given a sense of belonging.

“Edo State under my watch will continue to safeguard the interest of every locality as we march towards the realisation of a new Edo where citizens can live life to the fullest,” the governor said.

He disclosed that he had carefully considered concerns raised by the group, particularly regarding appointments to the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), as well as other areas affecting Owan people.

“I have taken note of your appeal, especially regarding the Governing Council of AAU and other grey areas. We will examine your requests within the ambit of the law to ensure that the interest of Owan people is adequately captured,” he added.

Describing Owan as his home, the governor reaffirmed his personal bond with the people and pledged continued support for their socio-economic and political advancement.

“Owan is my home and I will continue to cherish the Owan people,” he said.

Earlier, Ofen-Imu congratulated the governor on his one-year anniversary in office and on his recognition as Governor of the Year 2025 in Education by the New Telegraph Newspaper. He noted that the visit was also aimed at presenting concerns affecting Owan people, particularly in the areas of political inclusion, civil service representation, appointments to the Governing Council of AAU, and the Judicial Service Commission.

“We are here to congratulate you on your one year in office and to express some concerns regarding the Owan people. We acknowledge and support the developmental strides of your administration,” Ofen-Imu said.

A member of the delegation, Sabina Idowu, commended the governor for his sustained engagement with Owan stakeholders from the primary election period through the campaign season and into his administration. She observed that ongoing projects in Owan had strengthened public confidence in the government.

“The projects currently ongoing in Owan have reassured us that we made the right choice. As a people, we will continue to support your administration and stand by you to ensure that your promises to Edo people are fulfilled,” she said, while appealing for greater consideration of Owan’s interests in political appointments, particularly within Edo North.

The meeting concluded on a note of reassurance, with Governor Okpebholo restating his resolve to lead a government defined by inclusivity, balanced representation and sustainable development across all parts of Edo State.

In a statement issued after the meeting, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Patrick Akhere Ebojele, PhD, said the administration remains committed to policies and decisions that reflect equity, legality and the collective interest of the people of Edo State.