I’ll probe non-inauguration of 14 assembly members in 2019 — Okpebholo
CHIGOZIE AMADI
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has vowed to probe the non inauguration of 14 members of the State House of Assembly in 2019 by his predecessor Godwin Obaseki.
He disclosed this on Tuesday while delivering his acceptance speech after being sworn in as the 5th Executive Governor of the State.
Also, he promised to prioritize the welfare of civil servants, as well as strengthen the judiciary to enable it administer justice freely and promptly.
He said: “Recall that on the 17th of June, 2019, 14 members of the Edo State House of Assembly were denied inauguration into the 7th Assembly. It was a big blow to our democracy. My administration will setup a panel of inquiry to investigate the remote cause of this incident to avert such occurrence.
“The delay and refusal by the previous administration to swear in the three judges recommended by the National Judicial Council is indeed regrettable. The Chief Judge will look into this and take necessary action without delay.
“Our traditional institution shall be given the necessary support to play their roles as the custodian of our rich cultural heritage.
“It is in recognition of this that my administration shall support the decision of the federal government to uphold the Oba of Benin, as the exclusive owner of the returned artifacts that were looted away by the colonial forces during the Benin massacre of 1897.
“My administration is ready to link communities that are yet to be linked to the national grid to ensure that they have electricity,” he said.
In his speech, Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noted that Okpebholo’s election is a decision made by the entire state.
This gathering is proudly sponsored by the will of the people. We are here because you have spoken eloquently and decisively.
“Election of Monday Okpebholo as governor and Dennis Idahosa as deputy governor is not the victory of one man, but an achievement of the entire state,” he noted.
While noting that elections do bring joy and division, Shettima, however, urged Governor Okpebholo to shun politics of bitterness to enable him deliver on his campaign promises.
“A leader must overcome this in order to deliver on his promises to the people. Election is over, the atmosphere that nourishes that mentality must be dismantled instantly,” he added.
