Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Wednesday suggested that the escalating insecurity across the country may be part of a deliberate plot to destabilize Nigeria and distract President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The Governor made the remark while receiving leaders of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Edo State chapter, at Government House, Benin City.
“No matter the intimidation, we will not succumb. What they are doing is to fuel kidnapping because they want to distract and discredit Mr. President. They did it to President Goodluck Jonathan; they succeeded then, but we will not allow it this time. Mr. President is resolute,” Okpebholo said.
He assured the delegation that their requests would receive due consideration from his administration, saying “Let me welcome you, the President-General of Ohaneze. Your requests are very important to me, and I am going to look into them.
“We have already started working around Uteh, near the market, ensuring proper drainage is in place. We are also addressing the deplorable condition of the mechanic road”.
Speaking on economic development, Governor Okpebholo stressed the importance of creating an enabling environment for businesses to flourish.
“As for the market, we will look into it. We must develop our state. Business must thrive here. People who want to do business must not be discouraged. The only way to support them is to ensure peace and a friendly environment. That way, government can also earn revenue through taxes,” he added.
The delegation was led by the President of the Edo chapter, Chief Benjamin Ezewere.
In their remarks, the Ohaneze Ndigbo leaders congratulated Governor Okpebholo on his one year in office and commended him for his achievements so far. They also reaffirmed their support for his SHINE Agenda and appealed for the construction of access roads leading to Monee Market along Agbor Road, among other infrastructure needs.
