APC chieftain hails Okpebholo’s infrastructure projects

File photo: Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo.

An All Progressives Congress chieftain in Edo State, Julius Olele, has identified improved security, infrastructure development and the restoration of public confidence as major achievements of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration ahead of its second anniversary on Wednesday.

Olele, a member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council in Edo State, said the governor had demonstrated commitment to addressing the challenges confronting residents through investments in road construction, stronger collaboration with security agencies and closer monitoring of government projects.

Okpebholo will mark two years in office on Thursday, November 12, having been sworn in as governor alongside his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, on November 12, 2024.

Speaking in an interview with The PUNCH ahead of the anniversary, Olele said the administration had made security a priority following concerns over kidnapping, cult-related violence and other criminal activities that had affected residents, businesses and movement across the state.

He said the governor had strengthened collaboration with security agencies and introduced community-based security initiatives, adding that the measures demonstrated the government’s determination to make Edo safer.

“Before this administration came into office, kidnapping, cult-related violence and other criminal activities had become major concerns for residents. These problems affected businesses, restricted movement and discouraged many Edo indigenes in the diaspora from returning home.

“Governor Monday Okpebholo has made security a major priority through stronger collaboration with security agencies, community-based security initiatives and tougher measures against criminal activities.

“While security remains an ongoing responsibility, there is a renewed determination to make Edo safer for everyone,” he said.

On infrastructure, the APC chieftain commended the administration’s road construction and rehabilitation projects across the state, particularly the Ramat Park and Adesuwa flyovers in Benin City.

He said the government’s infrastructure drive was not limited to the state capital, noting that projects were also being pursued in other parts of Edo, including rural communities.

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Olele further described the restoration of public confidence as another significant achievement, arguing that residents wanted a government that was visible, accessible and committed to delivering results.

According to him, Okpebholo’s regular visits to project sites to monitor work demonstrate his hands-on approach to governance.

On the impact of the administration’s policies on residents, Olele said improved confidence in personal safety and efforts to tackle criminal activities were among the important developments since the governor assumed office.

He added that investments in road infrastructure would also improve transportation and stimulate commercial activities across the state.

However, identifying unfinished road projects as one of the administration’s major outstanding responsibilities, Olele said the government must sustain the pace of construction and ensure quality delivery.

He acknowledged that the rainy season had presented some challenges to construction activities but expressed optimism that contractors would maintain progress.

“The governor has personally visited project sites to monitor progress and ensure quality. Edo people should therefore expect continued progress, with the government maintaining its commitment to timely delivery and quality assurance,” he said.

Olele urged residents to give the administration more time, arguing that its achievements within two years offered prospects for greater development if the momentum was sustained.

“Remember, this administration is barely two years old. Imagine what can be achieved if this momentum is sustained for eight years,” he added.