Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has stated that no contractor or political interest can influence or compromise his development agenda, stressing that the funds of Edo State are strictly for the benefit of the people. The Governor made the declaration during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Edo State Chapter, at Government House.
He recalled the unity of purpose that characterized the last election, noting that political actors from different parties rallied around a shared desire to end bad governance and reposition the state. “During the campaign, many of you stood firm because we had a common mission — to remove bad governance from this land,” he said. “Our shared interest remains good governance and sustainable development for Edo State.”
Governor Okpebholo explained that his administration is focused on performance and accountability rather than political drama or praise-singing. He emphasized that his leadership approach is to allow his achievements to speak for him. “I am not going to carry knives, guns or force my leadership on anybody,” he said. “People will judge me by what they see. My goal is that at the end of my tenure, I should be able to return to my village with pride, not hide from the people.”
Speaking on project execution, the Governor issued a strong warning to contractors. He said no contract is awarded based on personal benefit or kickbacks, and that only the interest of Edo people is considered. “No contractor in this state can say I collected money from them,” he declared. “If I go to a project site and I am not satisfied with the work, I will revoke that contract immediately. I visit sites without prior notice — day, night, Sundays — because I know what I want and Edo people are expecting results.”
He noted that the period of abandoned projects and weak supervision had ended, as contractors are now aware that the government is strictly performance-driven.
ALSO TRENDING:
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Edo State IPAC Chairman praised the Governor’s early achievements, describing the ongoing flyover and road expansion project at Ramat Park as a long-awaited development that will ease traffic, transform the urban landscape and stand as a legacy for the state. He also commended the Governor for the regularization of over 5,000 teachers previously engaged on a non-permanent basis, saying the decision restored dignity and stability to families across the state.
Another IPAC leader, who doubles as the Edo State Chairman of the Labour Party, emphasized that the council’s advisory function is not symbolic but practical, aimed at strengthening governance rather than promoting opposition for its own sake. A representative of the Accord Party also lauded the Governor’s respect for traditional institutions and his reputation for action rather than empty promises, praying for strength and wisdom to continue.
The meeting ended with assurances of constructive collaboration as stakeholders resolved to support policies and programmes that align with the interest of the Edo people. The Governor, on his part, reiterated that his administration will remain focused on results, transparency and development.
