In a recent article, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, responded to criticisms made by Ijeoma Osamor in her article, “Edo Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo: Think Again.” Ebojele argued that Osamor's article was not a constructive critique but rather a lengthy sermon on humility. He emphasized that the governor's administration has achieved significant milestones in various sectors. Ebojele's response highlights the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of the Okpebholo administration.
The Edo State government has made significant strides in healthcare, including the reopening of Anegbette General Hospital after 19 years, Obayantor after 22 years, and Usugbenu Cottage Hospital after five years. Additionally, the Central Hospital Annex now runs 24-hour services, and modern equipment has been supplied to all 36 secondary health facilities. These achievements demonstrate the government's commitment to improving healthcare services in the state. The administration has also increased enrollment in the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme, with over 600,000 residents currently enrolled.
In the education sector, the Deputy Governor announced the recruitment of over 5,000 teachers and the renovation of dilapidated school buildings. The governor also highlighted the increase in monthly subvention to Ambrose Alli University from N41 million to N500 million and to Edo University, Iyamho, from N25 million to N250 million. These investments aim to improve the quality of education in the state. Furthermore, the administration has implemented vocational and digital skills programs through EdoJobs, the Industrial Training Fund, and development partners.
Infrastructure development has also been a priority for the Okpebholo administration. In about 15 months, the government initiated approximately 28 road projects covering an estimated 255 kilometers across all 18 local government areas. The 2026 budget earmarked around N305 billion for road projects. Residents of Evbuotubu have commended the completed 6.5-kilometer Ekhenwan-Siluko road, which has restored economic activity in the area. Additionally, over 23 kilometers of the Benin-Sapele corridor are being rebuilt with concrete pavement.
The administration has also made efforts to improve security in the state. Between March and May 2026, the Edo State Police Command reported 119 arrests and the rescue of 58 kidnapping victims. In February, a joint operation arrested 113 suspected kidnappers across Edo Central. The state has also requested the Chief Judge to establish special courts for kidnapping and cultism cases. While security remains a concern, the administration points to these arrests and rescues as evidence of progress.
Ebojele also highlighted the achievements of the Edo Specialist Hospital, which secured full residency accreditation in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Family Medicine, and Dentistry. Furthermore, Edo won a $1 million Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Challenge award. These accomplishments demonstrate the administration's commitment to improving healthcare services and promoting development in the state. The governor's administration has also focused on employment and skills development through various initiatives.
In conclusion, Governor Okpebholo's administration has made significant achievements in various sectors, including healthcare, education, infrastructure, and security. While criticisms are welcome, Ebojele emphasized the importance of balancing criticism with acknowledgment of progress. The people will ultimately have the last word, and Governor Okpebholo can let them speak through the ballot box. Until then, the record deserves to be examined, shortcomings addressed, and achievements acknowledged.
Key points
- The Edo State government has made significant investments in healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
- The administration has prioritized security, with notable arrests and rescues reported in recent months.
- Governor Okpebholo's administration has achieved significant milestones, including the reopening of major hospitals and the implementation of vocational skills programs.
