Wike commends Okpebholo’s commitment to developing Edo

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has commended the developmental strides of the Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, stressing that the governor, despite distractions, is focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to his people.

Speaking at the launch of modern mass transit buses by the Edo State government in Benin City on Tuesday, Wike also commended the people of the State for standing resolute behind Okpebholo and electing him as Governor.

He said, “A man who passed from the tribunal to the court of appeal, to the Supreme Court, he was focused on making sure he delivers the dividends of democracy to the people of Edo State.

“So many people would have used that as an excuse, you know, we are in court…I’m distracted. But this Governor refused to be distracted, and in eight months, see where we are today. He took the bull by the horns, just like what Mr. President did. The moment Mr. President was inaugurated, he hit the ground running. That is what Senator Okpebolo has done in Edo by making sure there is nothing like excuses.”

Wike further stated that Governor Okpebholo has demonstrated his commitment to good governance with the revitalisation of the moribund Edo Line, saying it will address transportation challenges in the State as well as improve security and the living standard of the people.

“When I saw these, I now said, indeed, you’ve done two things. One of the things you have done by bringing back the Edo Line is to solve the problem of insecurity. So many things happened. On the road, you don’t know the vehicle you are about to ply. You don’t know who the driver is. But now, nobody will take the risk, seeing that a new Edo line is here. You know the vehicle you are going to board, and you know the driver. If anything happens, the transport authority will know. You have solved that problem.

“Again, you have reduced the burden on the people, students, our market women and men. You have reduced the burden of transportation. That is touching the lives of the people. This is not 3D. This is the reality you are seeing. Seeing is believing.

“In Edo here, what you are doing is giving confidence to the President and Commander that yes, the people of Edo State will support me by providing what they need.”

The Minister who stressed that the State governor was right to have asked the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi for prior notice before visiting the state, dismissed claims that Okpebholo threatened Obi against visiting the state, pointing out that the Governor was merely concerned about Obi’s safety, as a member of the coalition movement, while in Edo State.

He insisted that high-profile Nigerians like Peter Obi need to inform the Governor of any State about their visit to ensure that their security is guaranteed.

He said, “When I was Governor, when Peter Obi was coming to my state, he notified me that he was coming to my state. I provided logistics, vehicles for him to use because at that level, as a presidential candidate, if he does not tell you and anything happens, the governor will be held responsible.

“And people should stop politicking when the truth is being told. Obi, knowing fully well, with the so-called coalition, anything can happen, they will accuse the governor that he was behind it.

“So, the statement you made, you are quite right. You didn’t say, don’t come. What I’m saying is, if you are coming, tell me because I’m here to protect you.

“So, Governor, you are right. If the man says he won’t listen to you, it’s okay. You have done your own work. People play to the gallery. This is not where a presidential candidate will be going to serve food. You know this is a pretence. How long will you be serving the food? As a president, you will carry food and be serving, and Nigerians are laughing.”

Wike also extended an unreserved apology to former Chairman of the APC, Senator Adams Oshiomhole and the people of Edo State for supporting the reelection of former Governor Godwin Obaseki in 2020, against better candidates, accusing him of non-performance.

Speaking earlier, the Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, insisted that his assertion that the 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party, Peter Obi, should not come to the state without informing him was not a threat, but an advice that was meant for his good.

“What I said was to advise him, and it was never a threat. Do not come to Edo without telling me. This is a clear statement. I am not here to only work for Edo people but also in government to protect Edo people and visitors coming to the State”, the Governor said.

“I only told Mr. Peter Obi to notify me as the Chief Security Officer of Edo State when coming to the State. Is that a crime?”, he queried.

Okpebholo recalled an incident that led to the death of one of his security details during the administration of Godwin Obaseki: “The Commissioner of Police asked me to remain at the Benin Airport when I arrived at Benin City, and I was attacked at the airport as one of my security guards was shot dead right in my presence.

“I had a security report and advised the former governor of Anambra State to inform me whenever he comes to Edo State. If he likes, let him take my advice.”

Governor Okpebholo had also, in his remarks, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, which, according to him, continuously translated into growth and development for the Edo people while assuring the President that in 2027, Edo State will give him 2.5 million votes to ensure he returns for a second term in office to continue his good works.

Former governor of Edo State and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Comrade Adams Oshiomole, and other top government dignitaries across the country joined in the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service.

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