From Ebohon Joan
The Okuokpellagbe of Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, His Royal Majesty Michael Sado, has called for stronger collaboration between traditional rulers and government at all levels to tackle insecurity across the country.
The monarch made the call during activities marking his first anniversary on the throne and the maiden edition of Okpella Day held on Sunday in Okpella.
The colourful celebration attracted several traditional rulers from Edo North Senatorial District, including the Olokpe of Okpe, Oba Okhishimede Eshimokhai Idogu; the Aideloje of South Ibie, Alhaji Aliyu Kelvin Danesi; the Ogiagia of Three Ibie Clan, Mallam Alli Suleman; and the Ogieneni of Uzairue Kingdom, Alhaji Kadiri Imonikhe Omogbai IV, among others.
Speaking at the event, the royal father said ensuring the safety of lives and property remains one of his top priorities, stressing that meaningful development cannot take place in an environment plagued by insecurity.
According to him, security should not be left to government alone. He revealed that shortly after ascending the throne, he purchased a drone to monitor forests within Okpella and neighbouring communities to help identify illegal occupants. Security personnel were also trained to operate the drone, a move he said has produced positive results.
As part of efforts to strengthen security, the monarch also built and donated an Area Command office for the police, which was commissioned by the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika. He also constructed a vigilante office to support local security operations.
On education, the Okuokpellagbe commended BUA Cement and Dangote Cement for providing scholarships to students in the community as part of their corporate social responsibility initiatives.
He further disclosed that the community has established its first indigenous microfinance institution, describing it as a major milestone in Okpella’s history. He explained that the institution was created to provide financial support for traders, entrepreneurs and organisations in need of short-term business loans.
Reflecting on his first year in office, the monarch said the achievements recorded within the period demonstrate that Okpella is making steady progress and is on the path to greater development.
