Politics
Governor Monday Okpebholo: A Flurry of Activities That Lead Nowhere
Edo State recently witnessed the swearing-in of its new governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, with much fanfare and high expectations. But, if his first few weeks in office are anything to go by, it appears that the new administration is more focused on creating spectacles than achieving meaningful progress.
Governor Okpebholo’s actions, though seemingly frantic, have left many Edo residents wondering if he is merely busy doing nothing. Beneath the surface of his activities lies an apparent desperation to impress, yet the people see through what they perceive as a charade aimed at discrediting his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki.
The Inaugural Act: A Boutique Commissioning
Upon assuming office, Governor Okpebholo “hit the ground running,” but not quite in the way many expected. His first official act as governor was the commissioning of a boutique owned by Kelly Okungbowa, aka Ebo Stone, an APC party foot soldier.
For a state grappling with pressing issues such as unemployment, insecurity, and poor infrastructure, this act was a curious choice. Residents were left scratching their heads, wondering how this event addressed the urgent needs of Edo State. The ceremony seemed more like a personal favour than an act of governance.
Ramat Park Flyover: An Unconvincing Beginning
One of the governor’s most high-profile projects thus far has been the announcement of a flyover at Ramat Park, a bustling area in Benin City. Shortly after his inauguration, heavy-duty equipment, including graders and tractors, were mobilized to the site amidst much fanfare. Representatives of the Chinese construction company CCECC, purportedly awarded the contract, were present to mark the occasion.
However, sceptics immediately raised valid questions. Constructing a flyover in a densely populated area is no small feat. It requires meticulous planning, feasibility studies, environmental and social impact assessments, and an open bidding process.
The residents have been asking: Have these steps been carried out? How had CCECC secured the contract in the few short days since the governor took office? Was there an open and transparent bid process that led to the award of the contract to CCECC?
The most baffling part came days later when all the mobilized equipment disappeared from the site, leaving the area exactly as it was before the spectacle. The Ramat Park flyover project now seems more like a public relations stunt than a serious infrastructure initiative.
A Visit to EBS: A Curious Directive
Governor Okpebholo’s surprise visit to the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS) revealed critical issues at the station, including power shortages, outdated infrastructure, and a poorly designed digital studio.
Guided by the Managing Director, Sulaiman Aledeh, the governor appeared disappointed and swiftly issued a directive for the state-owned Ossiomo Power Plant to step aside for “more capable competitors.”
This statement raised eyebrows across the state. The Ossiomo Power Plant, a project of the previous administration, powers key state institutions and streetlights. Critics wondered: What “more capable” competitors exist in Edo State, apart from the notoriously unreliable Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC)?
Why didn’t the governor investigate the root cause of the Ossiomo Power plant’s challenges and work toward a solution instead of undermining a functioning state-owned asset?
Aeroplane Assembly: Pie in the Sky?
In another headline-grabbing move, the governor announced a collaboration with an aircraft company to begin assembling light aircraft in Benin City. He and other officials were at the Benin Airport for a flag-off event, complete with a test flight.
Governor Okpebholo declared this project a “huge investment” in Edo State, promising opportunities for training and employment. While the initiative sounds ambitious, many are sceptical. Questions abound about the project’s feasibility, funding, and alignment with the state’s immediate priorities.
Critics argue that a state struggling with basic infrastructure and social services might be overreaching with a project as complex as aircraft assembly.
Praise Singers and Hype Men: A New Low
Perhaps the most peculiar hallmark of Okpebholo’s administration has been the introduction of praise singers and hype men into his entourage.
Wherever he goes, these fully-fledged adults heap exaggerated adulations upon him, creating embarrassing scenes that have become a signature of his appearances. For a governor barely a month into office, the excessive praises feel premature and insincere, leaving many Edo residents cringing rather than impressed.
The Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi Road: An Obsession
If there’s one project that seems to consume most of Governor Okpebholo’s time, it’s the inspection of the Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi Road, a federal government project that has been abandoned for years. Curiously, the road received renewed attention shortly after his inauguration.
While the governor’s involvement in advocating for its completion by the Federal government is commendable, many question the frequency of his visits. Is this focus detracting from other pressing state matters?
The Return of the Lions and Tigers
Another troubling development under Okpebholo’s watch has been the resurgence of the combative arm of the APC, the street enforcers known as “Lions and Tigers,”. These groups appear to be a government of their own receiving directives from some other sources.
Despite the governor’s directive terminating levy collection by any task force, these groups have reportedly continued to operate, defying his orders. Their actions, which include extorting commercial drivers and traders, suggest a lack of control or authority on the governor’s part.
A Pattern of Showmanship Over Substance
From boutique openings and premature flyover projects to questionable directives and theatrical events, Governor Okpebholo’s first few weeks in office have been marked by a pattern of showmanship over substance.
While his activities generate headlines and photo opportunities, they lack the depth and planning necessary for long-term impact.
It’s hard to ignore the undercurrent of rivalry with his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki. Many of Okpebholo’s actions seem aimed at discrediting Obaseki’s achievements, from sidelining the Ossiomo Power Plant, and stopping the Edo E-Governance platform, to announcing flashy new projects with little groundwork.
However, Edo people are not easily swayed by theatrics. They see through the charade and are demanding real governance, not distractions.
Governor Monday Okpebholo has an opportunity to pivot from a rocky start and focus on meaningful, well-thought-out initiatives that genuinely address the needs of Edo people. The state deserves leadership that prioritizes substance over spectacle, governance over grandstanding, and progress over personal ambition.
As his administration continues, the question remains: Will Governor Okpebholo rise to the occasion, or will he remain busy doing nothing?