By DADA AYOKHAI
Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has been identified as one of the link responsible for declining of democracy in the state.
The verdict was made by a watch dog of democracy in Edo State ,Gidigba Group,.through a statement.
”Its is quite alarming that since assumption of office by Senator Monday Okpebholo, democratic institutions in the state has been at the receiving end.”
Although, his victory in the september 2024 election was marred with obvious irregularities and now strongly contended by the PDP and its Governorship candidate, Dr Asue Ighodalo in the Election tribunal, in his short spell in office he has largely promoted disregard to the rule of law.
The state’s economic and democratic downturn has reached embarrassing levels, prompting multinationals to flee due to lawlessness and disregard for the rule of law.
In stark contrast, the Peoples Democratic Party’s PDP reign, under Former Governor Godwin Obaseki, saw economic growth in power and energy as well as other critical infrastructure development, attracting investors and fostering a thriving business environment.
The Obaseki administration brought about respect to the authority and sanctity to government operations where thugs could not resonate with its usual oppressive tendencies.
However, Okpebholo’s leadership has been marred by incessant impeachments, and removal of structural policies of his predecessor, a move deemed backward by democrats.
In his nearly two months in office, he has displayed autocratic rulership with Key concerns, including total disregard for the Rule of Law, and the principles of Procurement with his government persistently demonstrating a lack of understanding of governance.
This is no surprise to hear from a man who described the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike as his master who is transforming Edo State.
How can Nyesom Wike be the one transforming Edo State? The question is, has Wike become the President Of the Federal Republic of Nigeria or the Edo State Governor?
In a sane society, one would like to know how a man who is not a governor anymore of River State is now the one transforming a state where Okpebholo is believed to be the seating Executive Governor.
For us, Nyesom Wike’s involvement in transforming Edo State credited to Monday Okpebholo in his recent remarks in River State is a pure gaff and raises several unbelievable questions.
As a former governor of Rivers State, Wike’s current role is Minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, not the President of Nigeria or the Governor of Edo State.
This begs the question: how can someone outside of Edo State’s government be instrumental in its transformation?
It’s puzzling that Governor Okpebholo, the supposed elected leader of Edo State, appears to be relying as a puppet on Wike who is a minister to drive development in the state.
This not only undermines Okpebholo’s authority but also sensor clear disregards to the intellectual capabilities of the people of Edo State.
In a sane society, one would expect the elected governor to take charge of governance and decision-making.
His poor understanding of governance has created a sense of instability and undermined democratic institutions.
Ultimately, the people of Edo State deserve a clear understanding of who is driving development in their state and why.
Transparency and accountability are essential in governance, and it’s crucial that Governor Okpebholo prioritizes the needs and aspirations of his constituents rather than playing to the gallery and embarrassing Edo People.
Okpebholo’s vindictive approach to governance is another clear indication that he only came to serve his Godfathers, a testament to his campaign promises to serve his Godfathers when he becomes the governor against the will of the people.
Trusting Okpebholo’s government is akin to planting crops in a barren land, destined for failure.
Despite his public appearances, inspecting some roads in Benin City, the underlying issues remain unaddres
Okpeholo ;A Culprit Behind Decline of Rule of law in Edo _ Group
