Edo Election: Okpebholo Vows to Serve All, Open to Working with Opposition

Meet Monday Okpebholo, the newly elected Governor of Edo State, He has pledged to serve every citizen of the state, regardless of political affiliation, and expressed his willingness to collaborate with the opposition for the greater good. Okpebholo, a seasoned Nigerian businessman and politician, has been representing Edo Central senatorial district in the National Assembly since 2023. Now, with his recent election as governor, his commitment to uniting the state and fostering development is clearer than ever.

Early Life and Education

Born on 29 August 1970 in the Udomi-Uwessan community of Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, Okpebholo's roots are deeply tied to Edo State. He began his education at Udomi Community Primary School before moving on to Ujabhole Community Secondary School, both in Uwesan Irrua. After completing his secondary education in Jos, Plateau State, he earned his senior school certificate. Driven by a thirst for knowledge, he pursued a degree in Business Administration at the University of Abuja and later obtained a Master’s degree in Policy and Leadership Studies from the same institution.

Political Journey

Okpebholo’s political career took off when he ran for the Senate seat representing Edo Central senatorial district under the All Progressives Congress (APC) and won during the 25 February 2023 election. In June of the same year, he was inaugurated as a senator in the 10th National Assembly, where he gained recognition for his contributions.

In February 2024, Okpebholo further solidified his political influence by winning the APC gubernatorial primary election. Despite facing controversies, including allegations of falsifying his date of birth on certain official documents, he remained undeterred. His gubernatorial campaign gained additional momentum when Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie endorsed him, urging voters to back him for a fresh approach to the state's governance.

On 21 September 2024, Okpebholo was elected as the Governor of Edo State, emerging as a unifying figure who has since declared his readiness to work with members of the opposition to deliver progress and development to the state.

Vision for Edo State

Following his election, Okpebholo promised to build bridges across political divides, emphasizing that his administration will be inclusive and focused on improving infrastructure, healthcare, education, and job creation. He has publicly vowed that his government will serve all Edo citizens, no matter their political affiliations, underscoring the need for cooperation to achieve tangible results for the people of the state.

Okpebholo has set his sights on addressing long-standing challenges in Edo State, such as improving access to essential services like water, electricity, and security, while positioning the state as a hub for economic growth.

Personal Life

Beyond politics, Okpebholo is a family-oriented man. He is married to Blessing Okpapi Ekpe, and together they have two children. A devout Christian, Okpebholo is an active member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, balancing his public service with his personal commitments to family and faith.

As he prepares to assume office, Monday Okpebholo's leadership approach is grounded in transparency, collaboration, and a commitment to the people, as he vows to build a better Edo State through cooperation and shared progress.