Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has sworn in 19 commissioners alongside several chairmen and members of boards and commissions, with a firm warning that his administration will not tolerate corruption or indiscipline.
The swearing-in ceremony, held on Tuesday at the Government House, Benin City, was attended by top government officials, including Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Secretary to the State Government Musa Ikilor, Chief of Staff Alhaji Gani Audu, and other senior aides and technocrats.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo emphasized that all appointments were made strictly on merit, noting that the new positions are not political rewards but a call to serve the people.
“Your nominations did not come as a reward or patronage, but as a call to serve the people of Edo State,” the governor said. “This administration came into office on the promise of practical governance — to touch the lives of our people directly.”
Governor Okpebholo charged the new commissioners and board members to approach their roles with discipline, teamwork, and integrity, stressing that his government’s priority is service delivery, not propaganda.
“Our focus is not on propaganda but on tangible results that can be felt in every community across our state,” he said. “Your appointment is not for personal enrichment. You are not here for money-making but for service, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a better life for the people of Edo State. This administration has zero tolerance for corruption.”
He urged the appointees to view their positions as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Edo’s development, reminding them that history will judge public servants not by their intentions but by their actions.
Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s commitment to “practical governance” — policies and projects that directly impact communities across Edo State.
He called for collective responsibility and loyalty to the people, insisting that the new team must deliver measurable progress across all sectors.
“I expect discipline, unity, and a shared sense of purpose,” he said. “Our people are watching, and we must justify the trust they have placed in us.”
The ceremony marks a major step in consolidating Okpebholo’s cabinet as his administration pushes forward with its development agenda for Edo State.
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