Senator Monday Okpebholo Inaugurated as New Edo Governor, Adams Oshiomhole’s Son Joins Cabinet

In a grand ceremony in Benin, Governor Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Dennis Idahosa take office, pledging to prioritize development and security while announcing key cabinet positions

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo took office amid much anticipation in Benin City, assuming the governorship from his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki. Okpebholo’s inauguration marks a new era for Edo State as he begins his tenure alongside Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa. The inauguration ceremony, held on Tuesday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, witnessed a large gathering of supporters and officials.

As Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo began his administration, he outlined a five-point agenda aimed at improving security, infrastructure, healthcare, food sufficiency, and education. In his inaugural speech, Okpebholo assured citizens of his commitment to addressing key challenges facing the state. “Our citizens are our top priority, and my administration will focus on fostering an environment that supports economic growth and improves the quality of life for all,” he declared.

Governor Okpebholo emphasized a commitment to tackling crime, specifically targeting incidents of kidnapping and other violent offenses. He vowed to strengthen security measures to make Edo a safer state, one where “farming and business activities can flourish without fear.” With the vision to restore normalcy in daily life, Okpebholo highlighted his administration’s focus on infrastructure, pledging that road improvements would be swiftly implemented to enhance transportation and access across the state.

On his first day in office, Governor Okpebholo made strategic appointments, including the designation of Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, son of former Edo governor Adams Oshiomhole, as Commissioner for Health. This choice underscores Okpebholo’s intent to bring in experienced professionals committed to advancing the state. Cyril, an accomplished public health expert with credentials from institutions like Harvard University and Tulane University, is expected to contribute significantly to Edo’s healthcare development.

Okpebholo also appointed Musa Ikhilor as Secretary to the State Government and named Samson Osagie, a legal practitioner with extensive experience in governance, as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice-designate. Osagie, who previously served as Minority Whip in the House of Representatives, brings a wealth of experience to his new role, positioning the administration to reinforce justice and good governance in Edo State.

In response to calls from the Edo Youth Parliament, Governor Okpebholo expressed his commitment to engaging the youth in state governance. The Parliament, represented by its Chairman, Fawaz Muhammad, emphasized the importance of including young people in decision-making processes. Governor Okpebholo acknowledged this and reiterated that his administration would prioritize youth development initiatives, particularly in skill acquisition, economic empowerment, and educational opportunities.

Governor Okpebholo also pledged collaboration with various stakeholders to achieve comprehensive state development. He emphasized the significance of partnerships with the Federal Government, private sector, and international organizations to drive sustainable growth in Edo State. “We are open to partnerships across all sectors,” he stated, signaling his openness to local and global collaborations.

As Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo begins his term, he has called on the support of all Edo citizens to realize his administration’s vision for a prosperous and secure state. President Bola Tinubu also congratulated Okpebholo, urging him to lead with dedication and strengthen democratic values in the state.