Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has issued a strong directive to the newly sworn-in chairmen of the state’s 18 local government areas, charging them to put grassroots development ahead of personal interests and ensure residents feel the impact of government.
Okpebholo gave the charge on Friday during the swearing-in ceremony held at the Festival Hall of the Edo State Government House in Benin City, where the newly elected council chairmen officially assumed office.
The governor described their inauguration as the beginning of “a new chapter in grassroots governance and development” and reminded the new council bosses that local governments occupy a critical position because they are the tier of government closest to the people.
According to him, the mandate comes with significant responsibility, particularly following the renewed emphasis on local government autonomy under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Okpebholo urged the chairmen to work closely with the state government and ensure that development projects and government programmes reach communities across Edo.
“The overwhelming victory recorded by our party at the recent polls is a call for more work,” the governor said.
“I charge you to go and work for the people, complement the development efforts of the State Government and ensure that the impact of government is felt in every community.”
The governor also delivered a firm warning against corruption, describing public office as a “sacred trust” and an opportunity to serve rather than a platform for personal enrichment.
He told the chairmen that their performance would ultimately be judged by the lives they improve, the problems they solve and how responsibly they manage the resources entrusted to them.
“The best way to earn their continued support is through good governance and visible development,” Okpebholo said. “The people have entrusted you with leadership. Go and justify that trust. Serve with humility, lead with integrity and work with passion.”
The governor expressed confidence that the new administration at the local government level would contribute to greater progress, peace and prosperity throughout Edo State.
Responding on behalf of the chairmen, Oredo Local Government Chairman Gabriel Iduseri pledged to provide purposeful, transparent and people-oriented leadership at the grassroots.
He said the chairmen were prepared to support the governor’s development agenda and bring meaningful development to their respective councils.
The inauguration places the 18 council chairmen under increased public scrutiny as residents expect improved services, responsible management of local resources and visible development in their communities.
