Clergyman cites Governor’s inclusive handling of former Speaker Blessing Agbebaku as model for governance
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.
**Two Years of Cooperation Between Executive and Legislature
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
For a better society
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