From Moshood Karim
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has received commendation for his first 100 days in office, with a former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Frank Okiye lauding the governor’s efforts in delivering good governance. The former Speaker, who addressed a press conference on Tuesday, underlined the governor’s accomplishments, despite criticism from opposition parties.
The former Speaker acknowledged that Governor Okpebholo has defied detractors who had initially branded him a weak leader. According to the ex-Speaker, Okpebholo has demonstrated a clear vision for governance, rolling out policies aimed at improving the State’s infrastructure, tackling insecurity, and creating employment opportunities.
“He has proven to critics and the opposition that he is not a weakling,” the former Speaker said. “From new staff recruitments to tackling insecurity with newly acquired vehicles, and the construction of road networks, Governor Okpebholo has shown that he is capable of delivering tangible benefits to the people of Edo State.”
The ex-Speaker also commended the governor’s approach to governance, particularly his ability to clearly outline his plans and his proactive stance in addressing the state’s problems. “What stands out in these first 100 days is that the governor has been able to present a clear vision for the future. He has identified key issues and positioned himself as the solution,” he explained.
Notable achievements during Okpebholo’s initial period in office include significant infrastructure projects, such as the construction and rehabilitation of key roads, alongside a recruitment drive aimed at bolstering the state’s civil service. The governor has also prioritised education with the reconstruction of about a hundred schools, including the recruitment of new teachers.
While lauding these accomplishments, the former Speaker stressed that the pace of progress should be balanced with steady and sustainable growth. “Slow and steady wins the race,” he remarked, urging the governor to continue building on his successes while remaining open to new ideas and feedback from various sectors of society.
The former Speaker also noted that Okpebholo’s administration is open to contributions from all quarters, not just from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He cited the governor’s promotion of teachers and the employment of qualified individuals, as well as his focus on expanding critical infrastructure such as roads, including the rehabilitation of federal roads within the State.
Looking forward, the former Speaker advised the governor to begin preparations for the 2026 budget, with a focus on boosting State revenue and attracting foreign investment. “Edo State needs to become more self-sufficient. We must think about how to generate our own revenue and foster an environment that attracts investors,” he said.
The ex-Speaker spoke on the necessity of expanding the governor’s team, urging the recruitment of more capable individuals to contribute to the State’s growth. He also referred to the recent Policy House summit, which he described as a “brilliant” initiative aimed at providing recommendations to the government.
Addressing rumours that Okpebholo was overly focused on the development of Edo Central Senatorial District, the former Speaker rejected such claims, emphasising the need for inclusive governance. “Edo State is diverse, and every culture and region must have an opportunity to thrive,” he stated. “The governor is working to ensure that no part of the State is left behind.”
On the controversial suspension of the State Attorney General, the former Speaker acknowledged that while it was unusual to suspend an appointee so early in office, the move indicated that Okpebholo was committed to financial accountability. “It shows that he will not tolerate financial recklessness,” he said, though he refrained from celebrating the suspension itself.
In response to a question about former President Ibrahim Babangida’s apology for the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, the former Speaker called for justice. “Time does not run out on criminal matters,” he said, advocating for a trial to ensure that justice is served.
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