By Israel Adebiyi
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has said his administration has restructured the state’s security architecture, flushing out kidnappers from major flashpoints and drastically reducing cult-related activities.
Speaking on Thursday during an event held at the Government House in Benin City to mark this year’s Democracy Day, the governor assured citizens that his administration is committed to building a safer and more prosperous Edo.
He said his government is working to deliver tangible results while ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state.
“June 12 reminds us that democracy is not just a system of governance but a call to justice, unity, and collective purpose,” the governor stated.
He commended President Bola Tinubu, describing him as “a true hero of our time,” who has taken decisive steps to move the nation forward.
“In the face of immense pressure and uncertainty, Mr. President did what many before him couldn’t. Despite the odds against Abiola, he stood for the people and for democracy, giving Nigeria hope. It is from that legacy that President Tinubu drew his vision for renewed hope.”
Governor Okpebholo declared that Edo is no longer in the shadows. “We are rising. We are building a new Edo—one that works, protects its people, and delivers real, tangible results,” he said.
According to him, these achievements are the result of a deliberate security strategy, community intelligence, and the establishment of the Edo State Security Corps.
“Over 2,500 personnel trained by the Nigerian military and police are now being deployed to safeguard our streets, schools, and villages,” he revealed.
“These are not just political statements; they are practical, life-changing actions that show what leadership can achieve when purpose meets political will,” he added.
He urged citizens to continue upholding the values of culture, unity, and progress. “We are not here to make noise, but to make an impact. With your support, Edo will not just be the heartbeat of the nation—it will be the standard.”
In his remarks, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, thanked the governor for his cooperation despite their political differences, assuring him of the legislature’s support to fulfill all campaign promises.
Also speaking, the Edo State APC Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, congratulated Nigerians on 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance and praised Governor Okpebholo for what he described as rescuing Edo from anti-democratic forces that, according to him, plagued the state for eight years.
In a goodwill message, Senator Mathew Uroghide, Director of Administration and Logistics for the Chief Moshood Abiola/SDP Presidential Campaign Council during the 1993 election, praised the sacrifices made for democracy, highlighting the significant roles played by Edo sons.
APC chieftain, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, also commended the governor for convincing opposition members to join the APC, which has now become the majority in the House of Assembly.
Retired General Cecil Esekhaigbe, APC leader in Edo Central, described Governor Okpebholo as a true embodiment of democracy, citing his leadership in the past six months.
A major highlight of the event was the defection of Senator Neda Imasuen, representing Edo South Senatorial District, from the Labour Party to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Dignitaries in attendance included Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa; Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor; Chief of Staff Gani Audu; former Deputy Governor Pius Odubu; Acting APC State Deputy Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh; APC State Secretary, Engr. Lawrence Okah; State Youth Leader Tony Adun; commissioners, special advisers, and members of the State House of Assembly.
