Tinubu Committed to Nigeria’s Future, Says Okpebholo as Edo Rebuilds Ekpoma Shops, Compensates Fire Victims

By Esosa Omorogbe 

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to Nigeria’s long-term development, stating that the President’s policies reflect a strong belief in the nation’s future. 

The governor made the assertion during a political event in Irrua and Ekpoma, Esan Central Local Government Area, where he also handed over rebuilt shops to victims of the January fire incident.

Speaking at Eguare Public Field in Irrua during the inauguration of ward and local government coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and a defection rally, Okpebholo highlighted the impact of the Federal Government’s economic reforms. 

The event also witnessed the defection of members from opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), into the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Among prominent figures who led the defection were Senator Clifford Ordia, Hon. Joe Edionwele, and other political stakeholders. 

The governor described the development as a sign of growing confidence in the APC-led administration at both state and federal levels.

Okpebholo defended the removal of fuel subsidy by President Tinubu, describing it as a bold decision that previous administrations avoided.

 According to him, the policy has freed up resources now being invested in infrastructure and development projects across the country. He added that critics of the policy have begun to acknowledge its benefits after being exposed to ongoing projects.

The governor further disclosed plans to invite independent observers, including media personalities, to assess projects in Edo State, noting that transparency remains a key priority of his administration. He also pledged the state’s political support for President Tinubu, expressing confidence that Edo would deliver substantial votes in future elections.

In Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, Okpebholo fulfilled his promise to victims of the January fire incident by commissioning newly reconstructed shops belonging to members of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), which were destroyed during the unrest. He also presented cheques of ₦8 million each to affected shop owners to support their return to business.

Recounting the incident, the governor said he received news of the fire in the early hours of the day and promptly traveled from Abuja to Ekpoma to assess the damage. He described the destruction as the work of criminal elements seeking to destabilize the community, noting that the rebuilding effort marks a return to normalcy and economic recovery.

Okpebholo also revealed that President Tinubu closely monitored the crisis, underscoring the Federal Government’s concern for developments across the country. He assured residents of continued government support in safeguarding lives and property.

Dignitaries at the event included the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor; Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku; members of the State Assembly; National Assembly lawmakers; and party leaders. 

The inauguration and defection exercise were coordinated by the APC Deputy Chairman in Edo State, Sylvester Aigboboh, alongside other party officials.