Okpebholo’s Lightning Strides: Achieving What Obaseki Couldn’t Do In Eight Years In Weeks -By Isaac Asabor

The transition of leadership often carries with it promises of continuity, change, and hope. In Edo State, the emergence of Senator Monday Okpebholo as governor has brought an apparent whirlwind of accomplishments in just a few weeks, achievements that critics argue eclipse the eight-year tenure of his predecessor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki. While the jury is still out on whether Okpebholo can sustain this pace, his initial strides deserve recognition and analysis.

Within the first three weeks of his administration, Okpebholo has embarked on a transformative journey, addressing issues that plagued Edo State during Obaseki’s tenure. These initiatives are both symbolic and practical, reflecting an approach that prioritizes immediate action over prolonged deliberations.  

Okpebholo’s administration swiftly flagged off the construction of the 7.5KM Temboga Road and initiated palliative work on the Benin-Auchi Road, particularly around the Obadan Junction section. These projects address long-standing grievances over the state of Edo’s road network, an area where Obaseki faced criticism for delays and perceived neglect.  

The commencement of work on the Ramat Park flyover and the reconstruction of Sapele Road further underscores Okpebholo’s commitment to modernizing Edo’s infrastructure. Such projects, which remained stagnant or absent during Obaseki’s reign, signal a decisive break from the past.

One of the standout reforms of Okpebholo’s tenure is his crackdown on the “Agbero” menace and the disbandment of exploitative market associations. These entities had become synonymous with extortion, burdening traders and worsening the cost of living. Obaseki’s inability to decisively address these issues left many questioning his administration’s priorities. Okpebholo’s actions not only provide economic relief but also demonstrate political willpower.

Looking at his efforts toward bettering the state of education in the state, it is germane to note that the state of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma and the plight of its staff, were sore points during Obaseki’s administration, with allegations of mismanagement and staff maltreatment. Therefore, Okpebholo’s immediate allocation of ₦500 million to offset accumulated bills, the reinstatement of unjustly sacked lecturers, and the donation of a luxury bus for free transportation underscore his dedication to education. These measures contrast sharply with Obaseki’s perceived inertia in resolving the university’s crises.

Another area of notable progress is Okpebholo’s decision to swear in three judges whose appointments were delayed under Obaseki’s administration. By correcting this oversight, Okpebholo reaffirms the importance of the judiciary in governance. Additionally, the establishment of a Conflict Resolution Committee aims to address longstanding communal disputes, further emphasizing his hands-on leadership style.

The plan to reactivate Edo Line and transform Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS) into an international-standard station is also a bold move to restore public enterprises that had fallen into obscurity. These initiatives suggest an understanding of the broader socio-economic impact of efficient public services, an area where Obaseki’s administration struggled to make a mark.

While Obaseki’s administration had its moments of progress, particularly in the realm of industrialization and technology, several areas stand out as missed opportunities. Such areas, without intent to malign his efforts, cut across inadequate infrastructure progress, economic stagnation, neglect of education, and disconnected governance.   

To put the foregoing view in details, it is germane to opine that despite high-profile projects, Obaseki’s tenure was marred by delays and abandoned initiatives, particularly in road construction and urban renewal. Projects like the Benin Stormwater Master Plan became symbols of unfulfilled promises, leaving many questioning his commitment to infrastructure development.

In a similar vein, Obaseki’s inability to tackle systemic issues such as extortion by market associations and the unchecked activities of “Agberos” created economic bottlenecks that stifled growth. His administration’s approach was often seen as reactive rather than proactive.

Still in a similar vein, the state of Ambrose Alli University is a case study in administrative oversight. The lack of timely intervention during Obaseki’s administration allowed problems to fester, resulting in strikes and a deteriorating academic environment.

Worse still, critics often accused Obaseki of being out of touch with grassroots realities, a perception that Okpebholo appears keen to counter. The latter’s swift actions and visible presence suggest a more engaged and responsive leadership style.

Given the foregoing viewpoints, it is not a misnomer to in this context ask, “Can Okpebholo deliver, and sustain the momentum?  The answer, no doubt, cannot be farfetched as he has shown readiness to be different from his predecessor. After all, an African proverb which says “The whiff of the fart determines that of the faeces that would be expelled by the anus thereafter finds interpretation in this instance.  

However, while Okpebholo’s initial achievements are commendable, sustaining this momentum will be the true test of his leadership. Quick wins are important, but long-term impact requires consistency, transparency, and effective resource management. Critics and supporters alike will be watching to see if these early gains translate into lasting progress.

In fact, there are Lessons for leadership in this instance.  This is as contrasting leadership styles of Obaseki and Okpebholo offer valuable lessons for governance in Nigeria. Okpebholo’s pragmatic and people-centered approach resonates with a population hungry for change. His actions highlight the importance of prioritizing public welfare over political expediency.

Obaseki’s tenure, while not without achievements, underscores the dangers of over-promising and under-delivering. Leaders must balance ambition with execution, ensuring that plans are not only well-conceived but also effectively implemented.

In fact, Edo State stands at a crossroads, with Okpebholo’s leadership offering a glimmer of hope for a brighter future. His administration’s early successes challenge the narrative of inertia that characterized Obaseki’s tenure, raising the bar for governance in the state.  

If Okpebholo sustains this tempo, his tenure could redefine the benchmarks for leadership in Edo State, potentially cementing his legacy as one of the best governors in its history. For now, the people of Edo have every reason to be optimistic, as they witness what true governance can achieve within a matter of weeks.