Okpebholo Reaffirms Development Agenda, Says Edo People Voted for Progress, Not Rhetoric

Okpebholo Reaffirms Development Agenda, Says Edo People Voted for Progress, Not Rhetoric

Kingsley Ohens reporting For Urbanscoopnews

Benin City — Edo State

Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to delivering tangible, people-centred development across the state, insisting that his mandate from the electorate is clear and non-negotiable.

Speaking at a town hall meeting in Benin City with members of the Akpakomiza Movement for Tinubu, also known as Team FIGO-Connect, the governor said Edo people voted for transformation and improved living conditions, not political excuses or distractions.

“You voted for me for a reason, and that reason is the development of Edo State,” Governor Okpebholo declared. “I have a clear vision to move Edo from an ancient city to a modern city, and I am not losing focus.”

He explained that projects currently being executed across the state are driven by the genuine needs of communities rather than personal or political considerations, noting that his administration’s development priorities are informed by firsthand encounters with the challenges faced by residents.

Recalling a campaign visit to Temboga, the governor said the severe gully erosion in the area left a lasting impression and directly influenced his policy direction.

“I went to Temboga and I couldn’t even walk inside because of the depth of the gully erosion. I promised the people I would return if elected, and I kept that promise. Today, the results are visible,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo stressed that development should be seen as a collective achievement rather than a personal accomplishment of the governor.

“Without your votes, I wouldn’t be here. So there is no special thank you to me. What we are seeing today belongs to all of us,” he added.

On governance and accountability, the governor noted that his administration receives the same statutory allocation as previous governments but has chosen to channel resources into projects with lasting social and economic impact.

“Our work will speak for us. A time will come when Edo people will ask questions and demand accountability,” he said.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold and people-oriented economic reforms, citing the removal of fuel subsidy and recent tax reforms, which exempt Nigerians earning below ₦150,000 from paying taxes.

“Our president is carrying the common man along. Leakages have been blocked, and those who were benefiting from the old system are now uncomfortable,” the governor stated.

Governor Okpebholo highlighted ongoing projects across the state, including the durable reconstruction of Sapele Road, erosion control and road works in Ogheghe, as well as interventions in long-neglected public schools, as evidence of his administration’s commitment to sustainable development.

The meeting was attended by the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Emperor Jarrett Tenebe; the Commissioner for Energy and Water Resources, Barrister Washington Osifo; members of the Edo State Executive Council; and other party leaders.

Also present were members of the Labour Party’s Obedient Movement, who announced the collapse of their structures in Edo State and declared support for the re-election of President Tinubu in 2027.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the Edo State Obedient Movement Coordinator, Comrade Ikhuenbor Felix Igbinevbo, said the decision followed careful consideration of the president’s reform agenda.

“About 95 per cent of those here are members of the Obedient Movement and Labour Party stakeholders. We supported Peter Obi in 2023, but we have resolved to support President Tinubu for a second term because we believe his reforms will benefit the common man,” he said.

The town hall meeting ended with renewed assurances of support for Governor Okpebholo, as participants pledged to work collaboratively to sustain development and economic growth across Edo State.

The report was issued by Dr Ebojele Akhere Patrick, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State, on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.