“We Warned Them — They Tested Us!” Okpebholo Declares Victory In Edo’s Security Battle

According to Ireporter Online, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has declared that the state’s security landscape experienced a major turnaround shortly after he assumed office. The governor, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, to commemorate his first year in office, said nightlife has returned to communities previously plagued by violent attacks.

Reflecting on the government’s approach to security, governance, health reforms and the political atmosphere ahead of the 2027 elections, Okpebholo stressed that public safety demands firmness, even though leadership thrives on mutual respect. He insisted that his administration responded swiftly and forcefully to criminal activities. “We warned them. They tested us. We acted decisively,” he stated, noting that several arrests had been made and illegal gang hideouts demolished.

The governor explained that the state has begun to overcome its kidnapping challenges, adding that more than 300 trained vigilante personnel have been deployed, contributing to a steady reduction in crime for three consecutive weeks. He reiterated that Edo State has no place for criminal operations.

Okpebholo reaffirmed his strong support for the establishment of State Police, describing it as the foundation of effective grassroots security and the inevitable direction for Nigeria’s safety framework.

Speaking on health sector reforms, the governor said the system was in a near-collapse state before he took charge. He revealed that more than 80 primary healthcare centers have now been renovated across the 18 local government areas, with newly hired doctors and nurses adequately compensated to ensure retention. He also noted that a former deputy governor had personally expressed gratitude after a resident doctor was posted for the first time to his mother’s community.

On infrastructure, Okpebholo announced the revitalization of the once-dormant Edo Line, now bolstered with 50 new CNG buses in addition to the 100 earlier delivered under his tenure.

Turning to politics, the governor voiced confidence that the All Progressives Congress remains the dominant party ahead of the 2027 elections. He reiterated his administration’s target of delivering 2.5 million votes, noting that President Bola Tinubu’s backing has further strengthened the APC’s influence across Edo State. He cited the ongoing construction of flyovers at Ramat Park and Adesuwa, as well as new road networks along Sapele Road, as evidence that performance—rather than propaganda—will shape future political outcomes.

Okpebholo reaffirmed his commitment to the electorate, stating that he has no intention of betraying the trust they placed in him.