Governance, as the renowned political philosopher Aristotle once posited, “is the art of ruling men for their good.” In this regard, the first 30 days of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration in Edo State have been anything but exemplary. While it is acknowledged that a single month may not suffice to fully evaluate a government expected to lead for four years, certain glaring missteps have already begun to overshadow any nascent efforts at statecraft.
From the outset, the administration has displayed an unsettling tendency to dwell on the shortcomings of the previous government under Godwin Obaseki. While contextualizing challenges is an essential part of governance, the persistent finger-pointing suggests an absence of clear vision and direction. It appears the campaign rhetoric has bled into the governance phase, much to the dismay of citizens who expected a shift toward policy implementation and problem-solving.
Perhaps the most conspicuous of these lapses occurred during the presentation of the 2025 budget to the Edo State House of Assembly. The governor’s inability to articulate critical figures in the budget left observers baffled and disappointed. This unforced error did not merely undermine his personal credibility but also cast a shadow over the competence of his administration. Worse still, it handed critics and social media satirists an opportunity to ridicule the state, tarnishing its image in the process.
Former U.S. President John F. Kennedy aptly remarked, “Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” This observation rings true in the case of Governor Okpebholo. While his gaffe was unseemly, the greater concern lies in the evident failure of his aides to prepare him adequately for such a pivotal moment. Speechwriters, policy advisors, and public relations experts within his team must bear a significant portion of the blame for this monumental lapse. Their primary responsibility is to ensure the governor projects competence, and in this instance, they failed resoundingly.
In a more structured and accountable administration, such an embarrassment would necessitate immediate repercussions. Heads would roll, systems would be overhauled, and measures would be implemented to prevent a recurrence. However, the absence of visible corrective action within the Edo State Government raises troubling questions about its commitment to excellence.
Furthermore, the administration’s fixation on ceremonial activities—inspecting projects, hosting praise-singing rallies, and endlessly castigating the previous administration—betrays a lack of substance. Governance is not a pageant but a purposeful exercise aimed at improving the lives of citizens. The focus must shift from optics to outcomes.
Equally concerning is the apparent absence of a coherent developmental blueprint. One month into his tenure, Governor Okpebholo has yet to articulate a clear policy direction or a set of priorities for the state. This vacuum of leadership has created a climate of uncertainty, leaving Edo’s residents to wonder whether their mandate was entrusted to a government that understands the enormity of its responsibilities.
Leadership requires not only ambition but also humility—the humility to acknowledge one’s limitations and to seek counsel from those more experienced. Governor Okpebholo must eschew arrogance and surround himself with individuals who possess the technical expertise and moral clarity necessary to navigate the complex terrain of governance.
In addition, the governor must learn to harness the symbolic power of his office. As the state’s chief executive, his demeanor, rhetoric, and actions set the tone for the entire administration. Embarrassing moments, such as the budget presentation fiasco, detract from the dignity of his office and erode public confidence in his leadership.
The administration’s early blunders suggest that Governor Okpebholo’s ascent to power may have been more about winning an election than preparing to govern. While political ambition is not inherently problematic, it must be matched by a commitment to the arduous task of governance. As Benjamin Disraeli once said, “The secret of success in life is for a man to be ready for his opportunity when it comes.” Governor Okpebholo, it seems, was unprepared for his.
Edo State, a land rich in history and potential, cannot afford to languish under an administration that prioritizes theatrics over results. The state’s challenges—ranging from infrastructure deficits to youth unemployment and economic stagnation—demand focused and innovative leadership. The people of Edo deserve a government that delivers on its promises, not one that perpetuates mediocrity.
It is imperative for Governor Okpebholo to pivot swiftly. He must establish a robust framework for governance, centered on transparency, accountability, and measurable outcomes. This framework should include the recruitment of competent professionals, the development of a clear policy agenda, and the institution of regular performance reviews for his team.
Furthermore, the governor must invest in personal growth. Attending leadership development programs, engaging with seasoned administrators, and dedicating time to studying the principles of governance will enhance his capacity to lead effectively.
In conclusion, while the first 30 days of Governor Okpebholo’s administration have been fraught with errors, the situation is not irredeemable. To restore public confidence, the governor must implement immediate corrective measures. First, he should conduct an internal audit of his team and replace underperforming aides with qualified professionals. Second, he should articulate a clear vision for Edo State, outlining his priorities and the steps his administration will take to achieve them. Finally, he must embrace humility and the continuous pursuit of knowledge, recognizing that effective leadership is a journey, not a destination.
Edo State stands at a crossroads. With decisive action and a commitment to excellence, Governor Okpebholo can transform his administration’s narrative from one of mediocrity to one of meaningful progress and enduring legacy. The choice, ultimately, is his to make.
Deacon Darlington Okpebholo Ray, Publisher/Editor-In-Chief of Truth Live News Int’l, a Journalist and Socio-Political Activist writes from London, England.