By DADA AYOKHAI
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has kicked off activities marking his first year in office with a Thanksgiving Mass at Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Auchi.
According to Governor Okpebholo, choosing Auchi in Edo North fulfils a vow he made in the church: “Sometimes last year, I was in this church and I said, by God’s grace, that if I win the primaries and the gubernatorial election, I will return here to give thanks to God. Today, I have come to redeem that vow.”
During the Thanksgiving service, Governor Monday Okpebholo expressed sympathy to the Church and families affected by recent priest kidnappings in the diocese. He assured them of the government’s resolve to restore peace and order across Edo State, saying:
“While I sympathize with the Church over the kidnapped priests in recent times, I want to say that there is never a day we are not concerned about the insecurity in our land. We are doing everything possible to bring it to an end. I assure you that very soon, with your prayers and our efforts, we will overcome.”
He added that his administration remains committed to rebuilding Edo State on the foundation of peace, faith, and purposeful leadership.
The thanksgiving service was officiated by the Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel G. Dunia, who delivered a sermon on cleanliness, holiness, and gratitude in leadership.
Bishop Dunia commended Governor Okpebholo for re‑introducing the state’s monthly environmental‑sanitation exercise, calling it a vital step for public health and moral discipline. He also praised the governor for keeping his word—a vow made during last year’s service to return for thanksgiving if elected.
You made a promise before God and His people that you would return to this altar to give thanks if you emerged victorious. Today, you have kept that promise. This is the mark of a man of faith and truth,” the Bishop said.
Among the dignitaries at the Thanksgiving Mass were Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, and the party chairman, Jarret Tenebe.
Former governor Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and former deputy governor Philip Shaibu were noticeably absent.
Okpebholo Holds Thanksgiving Mass in Auchi,; Oshiomhole, Shaibu Absent
