Benin City- The Edo State Governor Sen. Monday Okpebholo has reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and equitable development across Edo State, assuring that no community will be marginalised under his leadership.

The governor gave the assurance while receiving members of Owan Conscience, a socio-political group led by its Chairman, Hon. Richard Ofen-Imu, during a courtesy visit to Government House in Benin City.

Addressing the delegation, Okpebholo said his administration is guided by the principles of fairness, justice and due process, stressing that every community in the state is entitled to benefit from government policies and programmes.

“Edo State under my watch will continue to safeguard the interest of every locality as we march towards the realisation of a new Edo where citizens can live life to the fullest,” he said.

The governor disclosed that he had taken note of the concerns raised by the group, particularly issues relating to appointments into the Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University.

“I have carefully listened to your appeal, especially regarding the Governing Council of AAU and other grey areas. We will examine your requests within the ambit of the law to ensure that the interest of Owan people is adequately captured,” he stated.

Describing Owan as his home, Okpebholo reaffirmed his bond with the people and pledged sustained support for their development aspirations.

“Owan is my home and I will continue to cherish the Owan people,” he added.

Earlier, Ofen-Imu congratulated the governor on his one year in office and on his recognition as Governor of the Year 2025 in Education by the New Telegraph Newspaper. He said the delegation visited Government House to convey concerns affecting Owan people, particularly in the areas of political inclusion, civil service representation, the Governing Council of AAU and the Judicial Service Commission.

“We are here to congratulate you on your one year in office and to express some concerns regarding the Owan people. We acknowledge and support the developmental strides of your administration,” he said.

A member of the delegation, Sabina Idowu, commended the governor for his sustained engagement with Owan people from the primary election period through the campaign and into his administration. She noted that ongoing projects in Owan had strengthened public confidence in the government.

“The projects currently ongoing in Owan have reassured us that we made the right choice. As a people, we will continue to support your administration and stand by you to ensure that your promises to Edo people are fulfilled,” she said.

She, however, appealed for greater consideration of Owan’s interests in political appointments, citing concerns about representation within Edo North.

The meeting ended with renewed assurances from the governor to run an administration anchored on inclusivity, fairness and balanced development across all parts of the state.

The press release is signed and made available to journalists by Patrick Akhere Ebojele, PhD the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.