The recent public conduct of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has left many residents and observers questioning the direction of the state under his leadership. While leadership demands humility, vision, and the ability to inspire confidence, the governor’s actions over the last two months have showcased a worrying trend of public missteps, perceived incompetence, and questionable governance practices. These actions undermine not only his administration but also the dignity of Edo State, a region with a proud history of intellectual achievement and cultural heritage.
A key issue that has drawn public attention is the governor’s habitual use of the term “father” to describe various individuals he feels indebted to. While showing respect and deference to elders or mentors is commendable, the sheer frequency and tone of these proclamations raise concerns about his leadership posture. In just two months, Governor Okpebholo has referred to no fewer than ten individuals as his “father” or “leader.” These include figures such as President Bola Tinubu, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, the Oba of Benin, various clergymen, and most recently, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. The governor’s latest declaration during a public event, referring to Wike—a man in his 50s and a contemporary—as his “father,” struck many as unnecessarily subservient and out of place.
“Dignity does not consist in possessing honors, but in deserving them,” Aristotle once said. For the people of Edo State, whose identity is steeped in dignity, pride, and intellect, this overt and repeated self-abasement from their leader presents a jarring image. It fosters a perception of weakness and dependency, which is damaging not only to the governor’s personal reputation but also to the collective image of the state. Leadership should project strength, independence, and a commitment to the well-being of the people, rather than a string of public displays that diminish the office.
Beyond these symbolic gestures, there are substantive governance issues that warrant urgent attention. During the presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill to the Edo State House of Assembly on Monday, December 10, 2024, Governor Okpebholo fumbled over the budget figures in a manner that embarrassed not just himself but the state he represents. He stammered, “The Edo State 2025 appropriation bill of six billion, six hundred and five billion, seventy-six million, seventy-six… let me take it again. Five hundred and six billion, sorry, six hundred and five billion, seven hundred seventy-six million, sorry it is confusing me.” This display of unpreparedness erodes public confidence in the government’s ability to manage the state’s affairs.
In addition to this, the governor’s approach to local governance has raised constitutional concerns. His directive for the executive chairmen of Edo’s 18 local government areas to submit their financial reports to him is an affront to the principles of federalism and constitutional democracy. Local governments are constitutionally autonomous entities, and such overreach from the governor undermines the rule of law. Furthermore, the state assembly’s recent suspension of several local government chairmen, reportedly orchestrated by the governor, has fueled allegations of a personal vendetta disguised as governance.
Another troubling trend is the governor’s apparent reliance on external figures rather than tapping into the immense talent and expertise within Edo State. This dependency on outsiders has become increasingly evident. His recent visit to the Governor of Imo State, coupled with his proclamation in a viral video that Nyesom Wike is currently developing Edo State alongside the FCT where Wike serves as minister, raises serious questions about his priorities. Such statements diminish the contributions and capacity of Edo people, further alienating the local populace.
Good governance requires leveraging the resources and intellect of one’s constituents. Governor Okpebholo risks alienating the very people he was elected to serve by sidelining Edo’s capable leaders and relying on external figures. His actions portray a lack of trust in the state’s human capital and send the wrong message to Edo’s vibrant and highly educated population.
“Real leaders must be ready to sacrifice all for the freedom of their people,” Nelson Mandela’s words remind us. Unfortunately, Governor Okpebholo’s administration so far appears more focused on discrediting his predecessor, consolidating personal control, and seeking validation from external allies than on addressing the pressing needs of the Edo people. This reliance on outsiders further underscores a leadership crisis that undermines the pride and independence of Edo State.
Edo State is blessed with a rich cultural heritage, a legacy of intellectuals, and a people who pride themselves on their resilience and independence. The current trajectory of governance, however, threatens to erode these values. The governor’s public missteps and governance style have cast a shadow over the state’s image, leaving many questioning the future of leadership in Edo.
The hope of Edo people lies in swift corrective measures. The ongoing legal challenges to the September 2024 governorship election must be resolved expeditiously to ensure that the rightful winner, Dr Asue Ighodalo, when proven, is restored to office. More importantly, the state deserves a leader who embodies the values of dignity, competence, and respect for the rule of law—a leader who can steer Edo toward a future of progress and pride. Anything less would be a disservice to the rich legacy of Edo and its people.
Deacon Darlington Okpebholo Ray, a Fellow of the British College of Journalism, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of Truth Live News International, Sociopolitical Activist writes from London, England.
