Says Executive-Legislature harmony under Okpebholo should be template for future administrations_.
August 2026 – A leading voice in the Edo religious community has publicly commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for what he described as “exceptional statesmanship, inclusiveness, and respect for democratic institutions” during his administration.
In a note of appreciation released this week, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu singled out the Governor’s relationship with the former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, as a clear example of leadership that puts the interest of the people above partisan politics.
“It is important for history and posterity to record that _Governor Monday Okpebholo_ has been exceptionally good to the former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, _Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku_,” Bishop Amasihohu stated.
According to the Bishop, for _2 full years_, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku served as Speaker under the administration of Governor Okpebholo. Throughout that period, he noted, the Governor accorded the legislature the respect, cooperation, and constitutional support due to it as an independent arm of government.
“During those two years, the relationship between the Executive and the Legislature was marked by mutual respect,” Bishop Amasihohu said. “The Governor did not interfere unduly with the House, and he ensured that the office of the Speaker was accorded its rightful dignity.”
The clergyman highlighted what he called the most remarkable aspect of the Governor’s leadership — his willingness to rise above party affiliation in the interest of unity.
“Despite the fact that _Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku came from the PDP_, Governor Okpebholo did not victimize him or work against him,” Bishop Amasihohu noted. “Instead, after Governor Okpebholo won the election, he extended a hand of fellowship and brought the former Speaker into the _All Progressives Congress - APC_.”
Bishop Amasihohu described the move as “a singular act that demonstrates leadership that rises above party lines, a commitment to unity, and a focus on governance over politics.” He added that such actions are rare in Nigeria’s political climate, where winners often sideline members of the opposition.
The Bishop argued that Edo State stands to benefit greatly when leaders prioritize collaboration over confrontation.
“This is the kind of leadership Edo State needs — one that prioritizes stability, collaboration, and the progress of our people above political differences,” he said. “When the Executive and Legislature work together, and when political opponents are given room to contribute, democracy is strengthened and development is accelerated.”
He therefore commended _Governor Monday Okpebholo_ for his “magnanimity, wisdom, and statesmanship,” while also acknowledging _Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku_ for his service to the state during his tenure as Speaker.
“Leadership is not just about winning elections. It is about building bridges after the elections,” Bishop Amasihohu added. “Governor Okpebholo has shown that.”
In closing, the Bishop prayed that the example set by the Governor and the former Speaker would continue to guide governance in Edo State.
“May this spirit of unity and accommodation continue to guide the affairs of our dear state,” he said. “We need more leaders who can disagree politically but still work together for the good of the people.”
_God bless Edo State._
_God bless Governor Monday Okpebholo._
_By Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu_
