By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
The Secretary to the Edo State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, has described the ongoing developments across the state under Governor Monday Okpebholo as “a miracle” that will be remembered for generations, as he spoke at the official handover of rebuilt shops destroyed by fire in Ekpoma.
Speaking at the event in Esan West Local Government Area, Ikhilor said Edo people are privileged to witness what he called a historic transformation, noting that the speed and scale of projects being executed by the administration are unprecedented.
“What we are witnessing in Edo State today is something history is made of. Many years from now, people will look back at this era and testify that a man was raised to rescue Edo people,” he said, referring to the governor, popularly known as Akpakomiza.
He particularly highlighted the reconstruction of the burnt shops belonging to police officers’ wives, noting that the project, completed in less than 80 days, demonstrates the governor’s commitment to rapid development.
“These blocks of shops were delivered in under three months. That has never happened before. What we are seeing is beyond ordinary; it is something close to a miracle,” he added.
The SSG also recounted a recent development involving popular Nigerian musician Eedris Abdulkareem, who had previously criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu but changed his stance after being taken on a tour of ongoing projects in Edo Central by the governor.
“By the time he saw the projects himself, he became a convert and is now speaking positively about the administration. That shows that what is happening here is real and visible,” he said.
Ikhilor further noted that the economic revival in Ekpoma and surrounding areas as a result of the ongoing construction of the Auchi-Ekpoma-Benin-Express Way is already evident, with previously dormant business corridors springing back to life.
“It is not just about infrastructure. What matters most is that economic activities that were once dead along this road are coming back to life. Shops that were deserted are now active again, and the impact is spreading across Esan West, Esan Central, and Esan North East,” he added.
Also speaking, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, expressed appreciation to the governor for rebuilding the shops destroyed in the January 11 inferno.
He described the incident as devastating for families of police officers who relied on the businesses for their livelihood, noting that the swift intervention by the state government has restored hope.
“Our job is very risky, and when we go out to protect lives, we want to be assured that our families are safe. When these shops were burnt, it affected many homes. Today, we are grateful because what has been rebuilt is even stronger and more secure,” he said.
Agbonika added that the gesture would further motivate officers to intensify efforts in securing lives and property across the state. He also acknowledged the governor’s support to the police, including the provision of operational vehicles, motorcycles, allowances, and infrastructure upgrades.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, the APC Deputy State Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh, commissioners, and party leaders.
The event also featured the presentation of cheques of N8 million each to 25 beneficiaries, marking a significant step in the recovery and economic revitalization of the area.
