Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has pledged to rid the state of criminal activities and restore peace and security to the region, known as the Heartbeat of the Nation. Speaking on Monday during a ceremony to swear in new appointees, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that criminals have no place in Edo.

“We will not allow criminals to disrupt the relative peace we have enjoyed in Edo State,” Governor Okpebholo declared. “Under my watch, no one will get away with murder or any act that threatens the safety and wellbeing of our people.”

The swearing-in event, held at the New Festival Hall in Benin City, marked the appointment of key officials tasked with leading efforts to improve education, security, and financial management in the state. Among the appointees were Emmanuel Okoebor as Commissioner for Finance, Paddy Iyamu as Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), and retired Commissioner of Police Friday Ibadin as Coordinator of the Edo Security Network.

Governor Okpebholo used the occasion to lay out his expectations for the newly appointed officials, urging them to prioritize the welfare of the state above personal interests. “Edo State must come first in all that you do,” he said. “You have been chosen for these roles because of your dedication, expertise, and track record. Now is the time to use your positions to uplift our state.”

The governor emphasized the critical roles that each appointee will play in his administration’s broader mission to develop Edo State. He called on the new SUBEB chairman to focus on revamping the education sector, which he described as vital to the state’s future.

“It is because of trust that you were selected for this position,” he told Iyamu. “I believe in your ability and capacity to deliver. With hard work and determination, I am confident you will rebuild and transform our educational system. You have been supporting education with your personal resources, but now you have the full backing of the state to make an even greater impact.”

Addressing retired Commissioner of Police Friday Ibadin, who will lead the Edo Security Network, Governor Okpebholo expressed his confidence in Ibadin’s capability to tackle the state’s security challenges.

“I know you are not a pushover when it comes to security,” the governor said. “Your track record speaks for itself. Now is the time to pursue criminals relentlessly and ensure they are driven out of Edo State. Our people deserve to feel safe in their homes and communities.”

For the newly appointed Commissioner for Finance, Emmanuel Okoebor, the governor outlined a clear mandate: to stabilize and enhance Edo’s financial resources. Drawing attention to Okoebor’s extensive experience in the banking sector, Governor Okpebholo expressed optimism that the appointee would bring valuable expertise to his role.

“You are not a novice in this field,” the governor said. “We selected you because of your proven experience. Now, you must apply that knowledge to safeguard Edo’s treasury and ensure that our resources are used wisely to drive development across the state.”

Speaking on behalf of his fellow appointees, Emmanuel Okoebor thanked the governor for the opportunity to serve and pledged their commitment to achieving the administration’s vision. “We understand the magnitude of the task before us,” Okoebor said. “Together, we will work to help the governor realize his five-point development agenda and make Edo State a better place for all its citizens.”

The ceremony was attended by several prominent figures in Edo’s political and administrative circles. Among them were Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Secretary to the State Government Barr. Musa Ikhilor, Chief of Staff Gani Audu, Head of Service Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, and various permanent secretaries.

The appointments followed approval from the Edo State House of Assembly, which last week adopted the report of its Committee on Rules and Business. The legislature’s endorsement underscores the importance of these roles in driving the state’s development forward.

Governor Okpebholo’s vision for Edo State is one of transformation and progress. By assembling a team of capable individuals to address pressing issues like education, security, and financial management, he is laying the groundwork for a brighter future. His call to action was clear: “This is the time to show the world that a new Edo is rising.”

The swearing-in ceremony marked not just the beginning of new roles for the appointees but also a renewed commitment to the values of hard work, accountability, and service. As the officials step into their respective positions, all eyes will be on how they deliver on the governor’s ambitious agenda.

The tasks ahead are significant, but the governor’s unwavering determination and the support of a dedicated team offer hope for meaningful change in Edo State. From pursuing criminals to enhancing education and securing financial stability, the administration is poised to tackle challenges head-on.

As Edo State enters this new chapter, the message is clear: with strong leadership and collective effort, the Heartbeat of the Nation will beat stronger than ever.