By Jamiu Yusuf
BENIN: Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday swore in 19 new commissioners and several board members with a blunt warning that his administration will not tolerate corruption, self-enrichment or actions that undermine public trust.
Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, in a statement said the ceremony, which held at the Government House, Benin City, was attended by top dignitaries including Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa; the Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Lateef Fagbemi SAN; Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Musa Ikhilor; and Chief of Staff, Alhaji Gani Audu.
Okpebholo told the new appointees that their nominations were not political rewards but calls to serve Edo people, insisting that his government’s focus is on “practical governance, not propaganda.”
“Your appointment is not for personal enrichment,” the governor declared. “You are not here for money-making, but for service, for sacrifice, and for a better life for Edo people. This administration has zero tolerance for corruption. History will judge us not by our intentions, but by our actions.”
He charged them to deliver results that can be felt across every community in Edo State, stressing that discipline, teamwork and loyalty to the people must define their tenure.
Reaffirming his commitment to rebuilding and repositioning the state, Okpebholo said: “Today marks another important step in our journey to prove that government can work for the people. Together, let us write a new chapter where service comes before self and show that a new Edo has truly risen.”
Speaking on behalf of the new commissioners and board members, Hon. Ebea Festus Odianonsen pledged loyalty and assured the governor of their readiness to support his developmental agenda and deliver on his promises.
