By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
The general coordinator of the Edo Muslim for Equity and Good Governance (EMEGG), Shiekh Sirajudeen Muhammad has said that the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo has made history in Edo State with recent appointments.
Shiekh Sirajudeen made this known to journalists in Edo North while responding to the appointment of Hon Gani Audu as the Chief of Staff to the Governor which was announced today Friday November 15, 2024 in a press release from the state government house.
He noted that the appointment of Hon. Audu, coupled with the earlier appointment of Barr. Musa Ikhilor as SSG, marks the first time in the state’s history that two key positions in the government have been occupied by members of the Muslim community. This development he said has drawn praise from EMEGG, with the Muslim community commending the Governor for fulfilling his promise of inclusive governance.
According to him, “Governor Monday Okpebholo has truly made history in Edo State by appointing Barr. Musa Ikhilor as SSG and now Hon. Gani Audu as Chief of Staff. These are two positions among others that Muslims have never occupied in the history of this state. This is a clear demonstration of the Governor’s commitment to equity, inclusivity, and the recognition of competence in governance.”
"I can tell you that the entire Muslim community in Edo is happy and we say this is a good start. We have no doubt that the Governor by the grace of Allah will be successful. Where you have good, experience Muslims and Christians who have the requisite qualification coming together to make decisions in your cabinet, it is an assurance of a successful leadership "
"Muslims have always been active in the state politics. We are about 40% of the state's population. Yet, in the past government we didn't get a fair share when it comes to appointment. The past Governments have always played politics with this despite our continuous agitation. This is why, if Governor Okpebholo is able to balance and run an Inclusive governance, as the fifth Governor of the state, he will be the most successful Governor in the history of this state"
Sheikh Sirajudeen further emphasized the significance of these appointments, stating, “These decisions showcase Governor Okpebholo’s resolve to break barriers and build a government that reflects the diversity of Edo State. The Muslim community is proud of these appointments, and we remain committed to supporting the Governor’s vision for progress and development. We thank the governor for the appointments so far, we do hope for a similar balance in the areas of ministries, departments and agencies, boards and parastatals”
