From Moshood Karim
Chief Emma Iyase, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State and a member of the Edo State Local Government Commission, has lauded the leadership qualities of the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo. He described the governor’s administration as the best thing that has ever happened to the State, commending his humility, accessibility, and commitment to grassroots development.
In an interview with journalists on Tuesday, Chief Iyase expressed his admiration for the governor’s governance style, highlighting his respect for traditional institutions and his people-centric leadership.
“The administration of Governor Okpebholo is the best thing that has ever happened to this State. One, it is not about window dressing. Governance, first of all, is about leadership, and I think Okpebholo embodies that perfectly. He is humble, respectful of the traditional institution, and he carries himself with the common people, walking the streets without airs of superiority. You can barely distinguish him from commissioners or permanent secretaries,” Iyase remarked.
Chief Iyase praised the governor for setting clear developmental goals and implementing practical measures to address the State’s pressing challenges. He specifically commended Okpebholo’s decisive actions in tackling cultism and violent clashes among youths.
“The governor has made it clear that any cult-related violence will be met with swift and firm action. If anyone is shot, the leader of the cult group will be held responsible until they produce the perpetrator. This bold stance has significantly reduced cult-related killings in the State,” he stated.
The APC chieftain noted that the governor’s security initiatives, coupled with plans to improve infrastructure, electricity, transportation, healthcare, and education, demonstrate his dedication to holistic development.
“He is discussing roads, healthcare, transportation, education, and even electricity. What more can you expect from a government? With all he has achieved in this short time, I am confident that by the next four years, the people of Edo will be begging him to continue for another term,” Iyase added.
Chief Iyase also praised the governor for restoring the dignity and pride of the Benin Kingdom, which he claimed was undermined by the previous administration. He accused the former government of embarrassing the revered Benin monarchy but hailed Okpebholo for his efforts in preserving and respecting the kingdom’s heritage.
“The Benin Kingdom has no oil or gold; its pride lies in its palace and the Oba. The immediate past government almost embarrassed that legacy. But Governor Okpebholo, with his nickname ‘Akpakomiza’ or ‘Akpako Rescue,’ has come to rescue the Benin Kingdom. We salute his courage,” he declared.
In light of ongoing violent clashes between farmers and herders in the State, Chief Iyase advised Governor Okpebholo to establish a Neighbourhood Watch to complement the efforts of the police and other security agencies.
“If the governor can introduce a Neighbourhood Watch to work in synergy with the police and State security services, it will significantly improve security. While vigilante groups cannot replace the police, they can enhance their efforts. The Neighbourhood Watch would add another layer of protection,” he suggested.
He further explained that recruiting local residents into the Neighbourhood Watch scheme would not only enhance security but also provide employment opportunities.
“By recruiting people from their own communities, you give them a sense of belonging and responsibility. They will be able to identify criminal elements in their areas and report them to the authorities. This will help reduce crime significantly,” he noted.
Chief Iyase also urged the governor to implement reforms in the approach towards tackling herder-farmer clashes, citing instances where alleged criminals were released due to external influence.
“There is a tradition where, if a Benin or Esan man reports a Fulani man for violence, before he leaves the police station, a phone call comes in, and the Fulani man is released. This must stop. The government must ensure that, once arrested, thorough investigations are conducted and offenders are prosecuted. Only then will the situation improve,” he advised.
Chief Emma Iyase reaffirmed his support for Governor Okpebholo’s administration, expressing confidence in his leadership to transform Edo State. He urged other governors across the country to emulate Okpebholo’s people-oriented leadership style and his commitment to restoring security and promoting development.
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That’s the truth we don’t have oil or gold but what we have is our OBA and the Palace
And any body that is come to stand between us and the Palace will not be left out God’s of our land will make sure the person’sand his family does not see a new done