Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has declared that no contractor has paid a single kobo in bribes to get government projects since he assumed office last year.
Speaking when the leadership of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Benin City on Saturday, Okpebholo said his administration would continue to run on the principles of transparency, accountability, and performance.
“My mission is clear: to serve Edo people selflessly and 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. Edo’s resources are for the people, not for compromise or favouritism.”
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor reaffirmed that his government has zero tolerance for corruption and undue influence.
“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.
Okpebholo, flanked by top leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), urged IPAC to partner with his government to build a united and progressive Edo.
“The elections are behind us. I am not the governor of APC; I am the governor of all Edo people. Let us unite to build the state we can all be proud of,” he said.
He restated his commitment to the SHINE Agenda, focusing on Security, Health, Infrastructure, Nutrition and Agriculture, and Education, stressing that Edo’s progress depends on collective effort and integrity in leadership.
“Your presence today gives me hope. Together, we can deliver good governance, restore confidence, and bring enduring prosperity to the Edo people,” the governor added.
On behalf of the delegation, the Chairman of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), Greg Igbinomwanhia, hailed the governor’s achievements, describing the Ramat Park Flyover as “a signature infrastructure that will stand as a lasting symbol of progress and foresight.”
“You have started remarkably well, Your Excellency. The Ramat Park Flyover is not just a bridge of concrete; it is a bridge of hope that will outlive your administration,” he said.
Igbinomwanhia also applauded the governor for regularising the appointments of over 5,000 teachers previously on contract, saying he had restored their dignity and faith in government.
Leaders of the Labour Party and Accord Party, Kelly Ogbaloi and Hon. Joseph Omorogbe, equally praised Okpebholo’s leadership style, calling his performance “impressive and inspiring.”
The IPAC delegation, which included chairmen of 17 political parties, promised continued collaboration with the government to promote participatory governance and accountability across Edo State.
Since taking office in 2024, Okpebholo has launched multiple road projects, reclaimed government properties, renovated schools, and formalised the employment of 5,000 teachers on a monthly stipend of N65,000 — a move aimed at revitalising the state’s education sector and boosting morale in the civil service.
