One Year In Office: Gov Okpebholo’s War on Cultism, Drive for Sustainable Growth Earns Lawmaker’s Praise

Edo marks one year of security, economic progress, and sustainable development under the Governor

From Moshood Karim

The member representing Oredo West Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Dr Richard Edosa, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for what he described as “an exceptional first year in office defined by economic growth, sustainable development, and a decisive war against cultism.”

In a viral video message marking the Governor’s one year in office, Dr Edosa, who also serves as Deputy Chief Whip of the Assembly, said Okpebholo’s achievements within just 12 months have restored public confidence and positioned Edo as a model for effective, people-focused governance.

“In less than a year, despite the distractions of post-election litigation, Governor Okpebholo has delivered far beyond expectations,” Dr Edosa said. “He has fought cultism to a standstill, improved security across our communities, and put Edo on a sustainable path of development and growth.”

The lawmaker lauded the Governor’s bold steps in tackling cult-related violence, noting that Edo had long suffered from the menace until Okpebholo’s administration took decisive legislative and enforcement action.

“His anti-cultism drive has yielded concrete results. Cult-related killings and crimes have reduced significantly across the state. The Governor’s courage and commitment have restored peace in communities once under siege,” he said.

Dr Edosa further highlighted the Governor’s progress in meeting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in education, economic empowerment, and healthcare.

According to him, the Okpebholo administration has integrated over 5,000 teachers and 500 civil servants into the state workforce, renovated more than 60 schools, and launched free malaria testing across public hospitals. In the security sector, the government donated 60 electric vehicles and 400 motorcycles to strengthen law enforcement operations.

He added that the state’s Internally Generated Revenue has increased by ₦10 billion, while 400 small business owners have received government grants to cushion economic hardship.

In agriculture, the Governor’s policies have boosted production by over 1,000%, alongside the launch of interest-free loans for market women, farmers, and artisans.

Dr Edosa also pointed to ongoing road projects, including the Ramat Park Flyover the first of its kind in Edo State, as evidence of the Governor’s focus on infrastructure and urban renewal.

“Governor Okpebholo has proven that governance can be practical, visionary, and inclusive,” Dr Edosa said. “He is fulfilling his campaign promises with honesty and speed, showing the people that government can truly work for them.”

The lawmaker congratulated the Governor on his first anniversary, describing his leadership as “a beacon of renewed hope and sustainable progress for all Edo people.”