By Mercy Akuba
The Edo State Government has dismissed claims of poor governance and lack of infrastructural development made by Mr. Samson Ifalani Isibor, insisting that the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo has significantly transformed the development landscape of the state.
The government stated that contrary to Isibor’s allegations, it has shifted Edo from what it described as “propaganda-driven governance” of the past administration to a practical, people-centered approach that is already yielding visible results under Senator Monday Okpebholo leadership.
This position was made known by the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Kassim Afegbua, while addressing journalists in Benin City.
Afegbua condemned Isibor’s remarks, describing them as baseless and misleading. He noted that Isibor, who has remained Chairman of registered political parties for nearly two decades, lacks the moral authority to criticise an administration that is working tirelessly to improve the lives of Edo people.
According to him, Isibor previously held an appointed position under the administration of Adams Oshiomhole and has since allegedly treated the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) as a personal platform.
He further described Isibor as a “faceless critic” seeking undue attention, stressing that it is ironic for him to criticise the present government when he has not shown accountability in the position he is occupying for close to 20years.
Afegbua maintained that the current administration has introduced a new era of purposeful leadership, noting that it inherited a state plagued by infrastructural decay, weak social systems, and poor healthcare delivery.
He said within just 18 months, the government has made measurable progress across critical sectors.
The government highlighted ongoing road projects, including:
Ramat Park fly over,
Adesuwa Junction by Sapele Road fly over
Ekenwan–Gelegele Road
Siluko and Ekehuan roads
Ewetobvo Road (over 80% completed) all the roads are
linking multiple drainage systems
He added that several road projects are ongoing in the City metropolis , Edo Central, as well as Edo North, to boost connectivity and economic activities.
The Commissioner noted that the administration met a dilapidated education system, with schools lacking roofs, furniture, and basic facilities. He said decisive steps have been taken and alot of public schools have been rebuilt and equiped across the three Senatorial District
Afegbua disclosed that about 75 primary healthcare centres have been constructed and renovated across the state, with a target of 160 health care centers within the administration’s tenure.
He added that the health care centres are fully equipped to serve rural communities, while work has also commenced at the Stella Obasanjo Hospital after settling inherited debts.
The Edo State Specialist hospital had also being strengthened to improve healthcare delivery in the state.
The administration has:
Recruited over 6,500 teachers into the civil service while
Employed more than 1,000 healthcare workers and has
Concluded plans to recruit additional teachers
In addition, the government has approved:
₦2 billion for infrastructure development and
Procurement of CNG buses for Edo State University of Iyamu
₦1 billion for student bursaries headed by John Akhigbe
₦1 billion loan without interest for market women
The Commissioner further stated that Edo State has recorded a reduction in kidnapping and criminal activities after drastic measures were put in place to fight kidnapping and cultism in the state
He said local government chairmen have been directed to collaborate with security agencies to flush out criminals from forests and communities.
Afegbua urged Edo residents to support the government’s efforts by paying their taxes and contributing to the state’s development.
He reaffirmed that the Okpebholo administration remains committed to practical governance and sustainable development, urging citizens to continue supporting ongoing reforms aimed at building a better Edo State.