Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern warning to contractors handling state projects, vowing to dismiss those who perform poorly and insisting that no bribes have been paid to secure contracts under his administration.
The Governor made the remarks during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) at the Government House in Benin City over the weekend.
In a statement released on Sunday, and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Owaen Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo was quoted as reaffirming his commitment to transparency and service.
“My mission is clear; to serve Edo people selflessly and to transform their lives through meaningful development. We will not tolerate mediocrity. Any contractor who fails to meet project specifications will be shown the way out”, he said.
He directly addressed the issue of corruption, stating emphatically that his government’s decisions have not been influenced by financial inducements. “No one has paid a dime to secure contracts under my Government. I monitor projects personally and revoke contracts when necessary. This is how accountability works,” he asserted.
Emphasising the sanctity of public funds, Governor Okpebholo declared, “Edo’s resources are for the people, not for compromise or favouritism.”
The Governor also used the meeting, which was attended by chairmen from 17 registered political parties in the state, to call for an end to partisan divisions. “The elections are behind us. I am not the Governor of APC alone; I am the Governor of all Edo people. Let us unite to build the State we can all be proud of,” he stated, urging IPAC to become partners in progress.
The IPAC delegation praised the Governor’s early initiatives. Speaking on behalf of the group, the Chairman of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), Greg Igbinomwanhia, specifically commended the ongoing construction of the Ramat Park Flyover, describing it as a “signature infrastructure that will stand as a lasting symbol of progress and foresight.”
“You have started remarkably well, Your Excellency,” Mr Igbinomwanhia said. “The Ramat Park Flyover is not just a bridge of concrete; it is a bridge of hope that will outlive your administration.”
He also lauded the administration for regularising the appointments of over 5,000 teachers who were previously on contract, an action he said had “restored their dignity and confidence in government.”
Further endorsements came from the chairmen of the Labour Party and Accord Party, Kelly Ogbaloi and Hon. Joseph Omorogbe, who described the Governor’s performance to date as “impressive and inspiring.”
Governor Okpebholo concluded by reiterating his administration’s focus on the SHINE Agenda, which prioritises Security, Health, Infrastructure, Nutrition and Agriculture, and Education.
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