Edo State’s newly inaugurated governor, Monday Okpebholo, took office on Tuesday as the state’s 5th civilian governor, with the swearing-in conducted by the State Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa.

In his inaugural address, Okpebholo outlined a five-point agenda focused on security, infrastructure, healthcare, food sufficiency, and education, aiming to drive the state’s development. He pledged to prioritise the safety and welfare of Edo residents, stating that his administration would take a hard stance on crime.

“The wellbeing of our citizens is our top priority,” Okpebholo said. “To achieve this, we shall implement carefully designed programmes in line with my five-point agenda, all aimed at driving economic growth and improving the lives of our people. We will not betray the confidence that you have placed in me and the Deputy Governor, Rt. Honourable Dennis Idahosa.”

Expressing concern over the high rates of kidnapping and violent crime in Edo, Okpebholo promised a firm response to criminal activities, aiming to create a safer environment for residents and businesses alike.

“For too long, our people have been victims of kidnapping and other violent crimes,” he remarked. “To put an end to this scourge, we will be relentless in addressing these threats and enhancing the security of our communities, allowing farming and other businesses to thrive once again.”

He also addressed the state’s poor road conditions, which have hindered movement and trade within Edo, promising immediate work on roads, drainage systems, and bridges to improve transport infrastructure.

“We shall begin work at once to make our roads accessible again,” Okpebholo said. “Our policy on infrastructure will focus on constructing roads, drainages, and bridges that will ease transportation for all residents.”

Okpebholo invited collaboration from the Federal Government, the private sector, non-governmental organisations, the diaspora, and other stakeholders, aiming for a broad coalition to support Edo’s development across all sectors. He also announced initiatives to provide soft loans for small businesses and market women, along with skill acquisition programmes for the state’s youth.

“Our young people will not be neglected. We will support them in acquiring skills that empower them to be self-reliant,” he stated. “My administration will move swiftly to recruit teachers and rebuild classrooms in disrepair. Higher education institutions will also receive support to ensure quality education for all.”

The governor also announced the establishment of a panel of inquiry to investigate the failure to inaugurate 14 members-elect of the House of Assembly in 2019 for the seventh assembly.

Additionally, Okpebholo outlined plans to connect rural communities to the national electricity grid, ensuring improved power supply across Edo State. He reaffirmed his support for traditional institutions, especially the Oba of Benin, whom he acknowledged as the rightful custodian of Benin artefacts looted by British forces in 1897, aligning with the Federal Government’s stance.

Okpebholo concluded by pledging to work closely with other branches of government to strengthen democracy and ensure good governance in Edo State.