Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has marked his first year in office with a firm declaration on security, health sector reforms, and his administration’s political prospects for 2027.
During a media interface on Friday, Okpebholo delivered a message centred on “action, discipline and results.”
Okpebholo stated that his administration has “crushed the criminal gangs destabilising the state”, resulting in the full return of nightlife to Benin after years of violence.
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He detailed the decisive measures taken to tackle insecurity in the state.
The governor explained that his administration had warned criminal elements, but after they tested the government’s resolve, decisive action followed, leading to several arrests and the demolition of criminal hideouts.
Speaking on kidnapping, he noted that the state had “turned the corner,” adding that more than 300 vigilante personnel had been trained and deployed, resulting in three consecutive weeks of reduced crime rates.
He maintained a firm stance, declaring unequivocally that Edo is not a place for criminals.
The governor also reaffirmed his strong support for a state police, describing grassroots policing as the future of Nigeria’s security architecture.
Okpebholo described the health sector as “comatose” before he took office but confirmed that sweeping reforms are now underway.
He added that over 80 primary healthcare centres have been renovated across all 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
Okpebholo added that newly recruited doctors and nurses were deployed and retained through improved remuneration.
He cited an instance where a former deputy governor personally thanked him after the official’s mother’s community received its first-ever resident doctor.
In the area of infrastructure, the governor highlighted the revival of the iconic Edo Line, which has been strengthened with 50 new CNG buses, adding to the 100 already delivered under his administration.
He also pointed to ongoing infrastructure projects, including flyovers at Ramat Park and Adesuwa and new road networks along Sapele Road, as proof of performance.
Ahead of the 2027 general election, Okpebholo expressed confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains the party to beat.
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“We promised 2.5 million votes, and we are not joking,” he stated, adding that President Bola Tinubu’s support has amplified the party’s popularity across the state.
He promised the people of the state, saying, “Edo people trusted me to deliver. I will not betray that trust.”
