Remodeling Edo for Greatness: SHINE Agenda to the Rescue (1) By Richard Eweka

 

Governance in Edo State has entered a defining phase under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, whose administration is steadily redefining public service through people-centred, results-driven governance. With the trust of Edo people secured at the polls, the governor has assumed the driver’s seat, steering the affairs of the state with a clear focus on delivering tangible dividends of democracy.

Despite sustained criticism from opposition elements, it has become increasingly difficult to persuade Edo people that the Okpebholo-led administration is under performing. The reason is simple: the projects and policies implemented within just over a year speak loudly for themselves, underscoring a governance style rooted in action rather than rhetoric.

Ahead of the 2024 governorship election, opposition parties invested heavily in negative campaigns, questioning the personality and capacity of Senator Monday Okpebholo. While critics were preoccupied with noise-making, the All Progressives Congress (APC) remained focused on showcasing its candidate’s credentials, competence, and readiness to lead.

The electorate, weary of what many described as “consultancy and Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) governance,” opted for a leader who speaks less but allows projects to speak on his behalf. Against all odds, Okpebholo emerged victorious, reflecting the people’s desire for practical governance that delivers visible results.

THE SHINE AGENDA

Though naturally reserved, Governor Okpebholo is deliberate and calculated in policy formulation and execution. His administration’s transformation drive cuts across all sectors, with projects spread evenly across Edo North, Central, and South Senatorial Districts.

At the core of this transformation is the SHINE Agenda, a development blueprint anchored on Security, Health, Infrastructure, Natural Resources/Agriculture, and Education. The agenda seeks to build a prosperous, united Edo State where every citizen feels the impact of governance, moving decisively away from the consultancy-driven model experienced over the previous eight years.

Through the SHINE framework, the Okpebholo administration has begun addressing deep-rooted challenges inherited from the past, confronting systemic setbacks head-on with renewed urgency and focus.

SECURITY: TACKLING THE CHALLENGE HEAD-ON

Security remains a cornerstone of the SHINE Agenda. Prior to this administration, Edo State grappled with rising cases of kidnapping, cultism, ritual killings, armed robbery, and other criminal activities that threatened lives and investment.

Governor Okpebholo has consistently reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on insecurity, emphasizing that the safety of citizens and investors is non-negotiable. His approach combines legislation, enforcement, logistics, and strategic collaboration among security agencies.

CULT KILLINGS AND THE ANTI-CULTISM LAW

Before November 12, 2024, Edo State frequently made headlines for the wrong reasons. Cult-related violence was rampant, with over 300 cult-related killings recorded in 2024 alone, painting the state as unsafe.

Determined to reverse this narrative, Governor Okpebholo worked closely with the Edo State House of Assembly to enact a strengthened Anti-Cultism Law. The new legislation has become a powerful legal tool in the fight against cultism and related crimes, sending a strong signal that criminality will no longer be tolerated.

LAUNCH OF THE SPECIAL SECURITY SQUAD

The administration further established a Special Security Squad, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists.” Led by the Principal Security Officer (PSO), the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the Governor, and a designated coordinator. The squad has made remarkable progress in confronting criminal gangs across the state.

Since its inception, cult-related activities have significantly reduced. The enforcement strategy—backed by strict penalties including long jail terms and demolition of properties used for criminal activities—has heightened public awareness and deterrence.

Joint operations involving the Nigerian Army and other security agencies led to the arrest of over 50 cult members across Edo South, Central, and North. Properties linked to cultism and kidnapping in Uromi, Ekpoma, Ubiaja, Auchi, Jattu, and other communities were demolished, with affected lands reverting to the Edo State Government.

The enforcement of the law has also compelled property owners to properly profile tenants, thereby strengthening community vigilance.

EDO STATE TASKFORCE

Another strategic intervention is the Edo State Taskforce, led by the Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Hon. Festus Ebea, and Commander of the Taskforce, CSP Michael Anetor. The taskforce has recorded notable successes in dismantling criminal networks, particularly drug syndicates whose activities often fuel violent crimes.

Through targeted raids, the taskforce has apprehended drug dealers and users, disrupted kidnappers’ hideouts, and forced criminal elements to flee the state, reinforcing Edo’s renewed reputation as hostile terrain for crime.

SECURITY LOGISTICS AND SUPPORT

To further strengthen security architecture, the Okpebholo administration procured 80 Hilux patrol vehicles and 400 motorcycles, which were distributed to security agencies. Additionally, 2,500 officers were recruited, trained, and absorbed into the Edo State Security Corps (EDSC) to complement federal security efforts.

This coordinated approach has yielded visible results. Cult killings have drastically reduced, incidents of kidnapping and robbery are down, and investor confidence is steadily improving.

RESULTS OF COMMITMENT

Within just one year, Edo State has witnessed a remarkable turnaround in security under Governor Monday Okpebholo’s visionary leadership. The state is now safer, more peaceful, and increasingly attractive to investors and visitors alike.

As the SHINE Agenda continues to unfold, the security sector stands as clear evidence that purposeful leadership, backed by political will and decisive action, can restore public confidence and transform society.