An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Edo State, Julius Olele, has identified improved security, infrastructure development and renewed public confidence as major achievements of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration ahead of its second anniversary.
Olele, a member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council in Edo State, said the governor had demonstrated commitment to addressing challenges facing residents through road construction, stronger collaboration with security agencies and closer monitoring of government projects.
Okpebholo is scheduled to mark two years in office on Thursday, November 12, having been sworn in alongside his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, on November 12, 2024.
Speaking in an interview with The PUNCH ahead of the anniversary, Olele said the administration had prioritised security following concerns over kidnapping, cult-related violence and other criminal activities affecting residents, businesses and movement across the state.
He said the governor had strengthened collaboration with security agencies and introduced community-based security initiatives, describing the measures as part of efforts to make Edo safer.
“Before this administration came into office, kidnapping, cult-related violence and other criminal activities had become major concerns for residents. These problems affected businesses, restricted movement and discouraged many Edo indigenes in the diaspora from returning home.
“Governor Monday Okpebholo has made security a major priority through stronger collaboration with security agencies, community-based security initiatives and tougher measures against criminal activities.
“While security remains an ongoing responsibility, there is a renewed determination to make Edo safer for everyone,” he said.
On infrastructure, Olele commended the administration’s road construction and rehabilitation projects across the state, particularly the Ramat Park and Adesuwa flyovers in Benin City.
READ ALSO: Okpebholo Reinstates N100m Monthly Subvention to Edo State University
He said the government’s infrastructure drive extended beyond the state capital, with projects also being pursued in other parts of Edo, including rural communities.
The APC chieftain also identified the restoration of public confidence as another achievement, arguing that residents wanted a government that was visible, accessible and committed to delivering results.
He said Okpebholo’s regular visits to project sites to monitor construction work reflected his hands-on approach to governance.
Assessing the impact of the administration’s policies, Olele said efforts to tackle criminal activities and improve residents’ confidence in their personal safety were among the significant developments since the governor assumed office.
He added that investments in road infrastructure would improve transportation and stimulate commercial activities across the state.
However, Olele identified unfinished road projects as one of the administration’s major outstanding responsibilities, urging the government to sustain the pace of construction and ensure quality delivery.
He acknowledged that the rainy season had posed challenges to construction activities but expressed optimism that contractors would maintain progress.
“The governor has personally visited project sites to monitor progress and ensure quality. Edo people should therefore expect continued progress, with the government maintaining its commitment to timely delivery and quality assurance,” he said.
Olele urged residents to give the administration more time, arguing that its achievements within two years offered prospects for further development if the momentum was sustained.
“Remember, this administration is barely two years old. Imagine what can be achieved if this momentum is sustained for eight years,” he added.