- Vows to Sack Incompetent Contractors, Reaffirms Zero Tolerance for Corruption
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has declared that no contractor has paid any bribe to secure government projects since he assumed office, reiterating his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and performance-driven governance.
Chief Press Secretary Owaen Fred Itua, the Governor made the statement when the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Edo State, comprising chairmen of 17 registered political parties, paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, Benin City, over the weekend.
Governor Okpebholo, flanked by top leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), thanked the delegation for its show of support and assured that his administration remains focused on delivering meaningful development to Edo people.
“My mission is clear — to serve Edo people selflessly and transform their lives through development,” he said. “We will not tolerate mediocrity. Any contractor who fails to meet project standards will be removed. Edo’s resources are for the people, not for compromise or favoritism.”
Reaffirming his zero-tolerance policy for corruption, Okpebholo said his administration would not shield anyone found guilty of corrupt practices. “No one has paid a dime to secure contracts under my government. I personally monitor projects and revoke contracts when necessary. This is what accountability means,” he emphasized.
The Governor also urged IPAC to collaborate with his administration in promoting good governance beyond political differences. “The elections are over. I am not the Governor of APC alone; I am the Governor of all Edo people. Let’s unite to build the Edo we all dream of,” he said.
He restated his commitment to the SHINE Agenda, which prioritizes Security, Health, Infrastructure, Nutrition and Agriculture, and Education, noting that Edo’s progress depends on collective effort and transparency.
“Our focus is development, not division. When I leave office, I want to return to my village with pride, knowing I left Edo better than I met it,” Okpebholo said.
The Governor also called on political leaders to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, urging IPAC to mobilize Edo’s 3.5 million eligible voters in preparation for the 2027 general election.
Speaking on behalf of the IPAC delegation, Greg Igbinomwanhia, Chairman of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), commended Governor Okpebholo for his commitment to development and integrity in governance. He particularly lauded the Ramat Park Flyover, describing it as “a bridge of hope and progress that will outlive this administration.”
Other members, including Kelly Ogbaloi of the Labour Party (LP) and Hon. Joseph Omorogbe of the Accord Party (AP), praised the Governor’s pace and direction, describing his leadership as “impressive and inspiring.” They pledged continued cooperation to strengthen participatory governance in Edo State.
The IPAC delegation included chairmen of 17 registered political parties, among them the APC, Labour Party, Accord Party, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Young Progressives Party (YPP), and Action Alliance (AA).
