Okpebholo: A steady hand at the helm 

By John Mayaki 

When Senator Monday Okpebholo left the Senate and took over the reins of leadership as governor of Edo state, following his victory at the polls in 2024, many viewed his elevation as a mere twist of fate.

Yet, in the 15 months since he took office, Okpebholo has demonstrated a remarkable ability to govern, delivering the dividends of democracy and proving that his leadership was far from accidental. He came fully prepared, just as he was destined. 

Now we all agree that Edo state deserves Okpebholo. Even those who worked against him at the election now confess that it was a wrong judgment. Today, Okpebholo has disappointed naysayers and shut their mouths with humongous projects everywhere - who would have done what Okpebholo is doing today, if not a “God-sent”? He has shown a keen understanding of the state’s needs and aspirations. 

Okpebholo has made it clear through his actions that he is the governor to take Edo State to new heights, building on the solid foundation Comrade Adams Oshiomhole left behind since governance was on holidays when Godwin Obaseki held sway.

One thing that has featured prominently in this administration and the leadership of governor Okpebholo is infrastructure development, economic growth, and social welfare. The consistency with which he pursues these priorities shows the man with steady hands at the helm. His attention to details will be part of those things that will define him and already shaping the narratives. 

This administration has prioritized rural development, an area that had long been neglected by previous government. His decision to focus on the grassroots has been one of his most applauded moves. He distributed 54 construction equipments across the 18 local government areas and work has commenced in the various areas. 

He is committed to improving the lives of the people, especially those in rural areas and ensuring that no part of the state is left behind in development.

Okpebholo’s belief in education as the cornerstone of development is evident in his administration’s investment in the sector. The N1 billion allocated for bursaries and scholarships for students of Edo origin was not only a financial lifeline for many families but a clear statement of the government’s recognition of the importance of human capital development.

Moreover, the governor’s efforts in agriculture have been widely lauded. Recognizing the state’s agricultural potential, he has facilitated the purchase of tractors, empowered farmers by way of grants. This move is seen as a masterstroke in ensuring food security and economic growth for the state.

While Governor Okpebholo’s leadership has earned him widespread admiration, his focus on infrastructure development is unprecedented and unparalleled. This is even more so at a time bold vision was essential. 

He is not a noisy type. Not one who dances to the gallery. Not an attention seeker. A quiet revolutionist, who could ease tensions with grace and consistently lead with clarity and conviction. A principled man with deep conviction.

The consistency of Governor Okpebholo is something intriguing. What about his clarity of vision and the ability to inspire confidence in the people? These are the qualities of the very man with steady hands at the helm; the man guiding with purpose and pragmatism. 

His methodical style of building structures that would endure tells of a leader who values substance and result-oriented. The stability in the polity and governance is another important character of this man at the helm. Okpebholo has shown ability to remain composed even under immense pressure. Of course nobody can satisfy everybody, but Okpebholo understands these competing interests in the polity and has often treated all in his balancing act. 

His inclusivity in governance and in decision making also gave reason for this headline. He understands that sustainable progress both in politics and in developmental governance cannot be achieved in isolation. And so, Okpebholo encourages dialogue and divergent opinions. A leader who can be said to respect participatory governance which has also strengthened relationships across different segments of society. Talk or leadership that listens, think Okpebholo. 

This steady hand at the helm in Edo has a track record. He is navigating the complexities of governance with calm and resolve. He is steering the course with clarity and conviction. He is committed to progress and at the same time, grounded in responsibility with lasting impact. Ladies and gentlemen, I welcome you all to Edo state, where you have governor Monday Okpebholo with his steady hand at the helm.