Senator Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Edo State governorship election scheduled for September 21, 2024, has expressed a pressing need for a “panel beater” to address the state’s deteriorating infrastructure and restore it to its former splendor.
Okpebholo’s remarks came in response to criticism from political opponents who have disparagingly referred to him as a “panel beater.” In his view, such a designation is irrelevant to the pressing issues of insecurity, healthcare inadequacies, crumbling roads, declining respect for traditional institutions, and the failing educational system that currently plague Edo State.
During a media interaction with members of the Edo State Correspondent Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Benin, Okpebholo articulated his vision for the state and outlined his plans to tackle its numerous challenges.
He emphasized that his approach does not rely on grandiloquent speeches or theoretical frameworks but rather on practical solutions and immediate action.
Okpebholo made it clear that if elected, his administration would prioritize declaring a state of emergency on insecurity. He believes that this decisive step is necessary to address the pervasive violence and instability that have affected many communities across the state. This move, he argues, will pave the way for more effective measures to restore peace and safety in Edo State.
In addition to addressing insecurity, Okpebholo criticized the current administration led by Governor Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He pointed out that despite receiving substantial monthly allocations, security votes, and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) over nearly eight years, the state continues to grapple with significant issues.
Okpebholo challenged Obaseki to provide a detailed account of how these funds have been utilized and questioned the impact they have had on improving the lives of Edo State residents.
“If elected by the special grace of God on September 21st, I am dedicated to doing things differently,” Okpebholo asserted. “My goal is to restore Edo State to its lost glory. What the state needs now is a courageous leader who can implement effective solutions for the benefit of our people.”
Okpebholo highlighted that Edo State currently receives approximately N11 billion in monthly allocations. However, the state’s debt profile stands at around N135 billion, which he argues is compromising the future of its children. He stressed that this financial burden is a significant concern and requires urgent attention to ensure the state’s economic stability and development.
The candidate outlined his vision for Edo State, emphasizing the need for substantial reforms. He described his approach as that of a “panel beater” who will work to fix the state’s problems methodically and with determination. This includes tackling issues such as thuggery, revitalizing industries like Bendel Brewery, repairing infrastructure, and improving the educational system.
Okpebholo’s plan also involves ensuring that classrooms are well-equipped and teachers are present to provide quality education to students.
Okpebholo emphasized his commitment to serving as a leader who governs with empathy and a deep understanding of the people’s needs. He believes that practical governance, combined with a compassionate approach, will lead to meaningful improvements in the lives of Edo State residents.
Prince Kassim Afegbua, Media Consultant for the Edo State APC Governorship Campaign Council, also weighed in on the discussion. Afegbua stressed the importance of electing a governor with emotional intelligence and genuine empathy. He praised Okpebholo’s humility and candor, noting that these qualities resonate strongly with voters.
Afegbua further highlighted Okpebholo’s track record of interventionist projects, which include the provision of electricity transformers, the construction of classrooms, the supply of security vehicles to Edo Central, and the distribution of scholarships and boreholes to various communities. These initiatives, according to Afegbua, demonstrate Okpebholo’s commitment to addressing the practical needs of the people and improving the state’s infrastructure and services.
