By: Fred Itua
Governor Monday Okpebholo is fast becoming a symbol of transformative leadership in Edo State. Since assuming office in September 2024, his administration has redefined the ethos of governance, revitalized state infrastructure, and set in motion a new political culture anchored on unity, inclusivity, and competence.
His emergence as governor, following a decisive victory in the 2024 gubernatorial election where he polled 291,667 votes against Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who secured 247,274 votes, signaled a clear mandate from the people for a new direction. This electoral triumph reflects voter confidence marking a break from the past and the beginning of a dynamic shift in Edo’s political alignment under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Governor Okpebholo is a symbol of unification, reaching beyond partisan lines to build bridges across Edo’s diverse political spectrum. He has consistently demonstrated that governance is not about partisanship, but about capacity, service, and commitment to the people. By appointing capable individuals from both his party and the opposition, the governor has created a unity government that prioritizes meritocracy and the collective interest of Edo people.
The APC in Edo State now enjoys a renewed sense of purpose and cohesion under Governor Okpebholo’s leadership. He has earned a reputation within the party as a leader who rewards diligence and competence. Rather than operating with authoritarian tendencies, he respects party structures, consults stakeholders, and embraces the wisdom of collective decision-making. This consultative approach has fortified the APC, making it more inclusive, attractive, and representative of a wide array of political interests and talents.
Furthermore, Governor Okpebholo has not ignored those in the opposition who recognized his potentials early on and lent their support during the election. Prominent figures across party lines have found opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the administration, with appointments based on merit rather than political affiliations. This posture has accelerated defections to the APC and underscored the governor’s commitment to putting Edo first.
The decline of the PDP in Edo State appears increasingly inevitable, hastened by internal fractures, ego-driven leadership, and a disconnection from the people. While the APC is consolidating its strength, the PDP is grappling with the consequences of its own missteps—alienating core supporters and watching influential figures cross over to the APC in droves. The movement has included high-profile defections such as the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, Hon. Sunny Ifada, Hon. Yekini Idiaye, Hon. Bright Iyamu, Hon. Sunday Ojezele, Hon. Richard Edosa, Hon. Richard Okogbe, former Deputy Speaker Hon. Roland Asoro, former House Majority Leader Hon. Nosa Nosayaba, and former PDP State Secretary Gabriel Ọlọ́runtoba, among others.
Governor Monday Okpebholo’s leadership is a new dawn for Edo State—a governance model grounded in inclusion, integrity, and progress. His commitment to meritocracy, cross-party collaboration, and the welfare of the people has reshaped Edo’s political narrative and set a standard for responsive leadership in Nigeria. As the state continues on this trajectory, it becomes increasingly evident that Governor Okpebholo is leading a government—he is leading a movement that puts the people first and reclaims the promise of good governance. If this momentum is sustained, Edo State could well become a national example of what purposeful leadership can achieve.
Fred Itua is the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor.
