The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to embrace purposeful governance, institutional discipline, and people‑centered development as his administration enters its second year.
Speaking at a press conference in Benin City on Thursday, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, the state chairman of the PDP, reviewed the governor’s first year in office and urged him to build on the developmental foundation laid by the previous administration rather than abandon existing projects.
Aziegbemi noted that the past year offered an opportunity to consolidate gains made under the former government, particularly in digital governance, education reform, infrastructure renewal, and institutional accountability. However, he expressed concern over what he described as a “slow start” in policy implementation.
“For months, the state operated without a functional cabinet, which affected policy direction and execution,” Aziegbemi said, stressing that governance requires stability and clear leadership structures.
The PDP chairman highlighted several areas needing urgent attention:
- Land Administration: He pointed out that the Edo Geographic Information Service (EdoGIS), once a model of transparency in land management, has slowed in performance, with implications for investment flow and property rights.
- Infrastructure: He called for accelerated maintenance of urban facilities, road rehabilitation, and improved sanitation, describing them as fundamental to a thriving state capital.
- Education and Health: Aziegbemi urged the revitalisation of schools and hospitals, warning against reversing earlier gains achieved under the EdoBEST initiative, which modernised classrooms and introduced digital learning.
- Transparency in Procurement: He emphasized the need for due process in contract awards and public procurement, noting that credibility in governance rests on accountability.
Reaffirming the PDP’s role as a constructive opposition, Aziegbemi said the party remains Edo’s only organised, policy‑driven, and people‑centered political platform.
He referenced legacy projects of the previous administration, including the Edo Tech Park, Ossiomo Power Plant, Edo Modular Refinery, EdoJobs Initiative, and the John Odigie‑Oyegun Public Service Academy, describing them as models of strategic development that should be sustained and expanded.
“Edo people deserve stability, focus, and continuity in governance. The first year should be a learning curve; the coming years must deliver measurable progress,” Aziegbemi concluded.
