Yesterday, 10th December, 2024, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, presented the proposed N605 billion 2025 budget to the State House of Assembly in Benin City. Out of this, N223 billion was allocated to recurrent expenditure, while N381 billion was earmarked for capital projects, reflecting a 25% increase from 2024. This budget dedicates 37% to recurrent expenses and 63% to capital projects, targeting key areas such as road infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, and agriculture.
While the Governor admittedly made a minor error during his presentation, critics were so consumed with this, rather than focusing on the broader picture – the vision and intent behind the budget.
Over the past eight years, Edo people endured hollow rhetoric and empty promises. In response, they placed their trust in Senator Okpebholo – not for his eloquence, but for his proven capacity to lead and deliver results. Even with just one month in office, his actions already provide a glimpse of Edo’s brighter future. Let us be clear: Edo did not elect a speechmaker; they chose a builder and reformer. And if critics are scrambling to find fault in how he speaks, they can rest assured that 99% of Edo’s real challenges are already being not only addressed but tackled.
Some individuals seem perpetually ready to exaggerate small missteps, blowing them out of proportion to suit their narrative. But since taking office, Governor Okpebholo has demonstrated leadership, focus, and resilience, proving he cannot be derailed by baseless distractions.
Constructive criticism matters. A leader who declares himself open to critique- as the Governor did during a state media tour shows the strength and humility required to address weaknesses and grow. Rather than tear him down, why not recognise the significant steps he is already taken?
Think back: where were these critics when he began delivering on his campaign promises?
– When he started remodelling public schools and flagged off major road projects like the Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi Road, they were silent.
– When he launched a book distribution programme and vowed to rebuild schools, they looked the other way.
– When he uncovered construction errors at the Stella Obasanjo Hospital or revamped Edo’s e-governance platform, they were busy elsewhere.
– When he dissolved exploitative market unions and improved workers’ welfare with a 13th-month salary, their voices were absent.
– When he prioritised jobs for first-class graduates, declared war on cultism, and resolved lingering traditional disputes, their pens and platforms were quiet.
And now, because of a minor slip, an error the Governor has already owned up to, they emerge as loud critics. The energy they bring is misplaced.
What Edo needs is not baseless fault-finding but collaborative efforts to ensure this administration succeeds. Governor Okpebholo’s humility in acknowledging his mistakes speaks volumes about his leadership. What is more valuable than a leader who learns, grows, and delivers on their promises?
Edo is on the path to progress. Let us focus on the work ahead, not petty distractions.
Lois Otse Adams, Ph.D Pol.Comm.(in view); M.A. Med.Arts & C.Edu.; B.Sc. Journ.; PGD Journ. & Theo.; HND Print Med.; nipr; Hon. D. Letters.
Edo State, Nigeria
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