By Imelda Osayande

Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo on Sunday led cabinet members and All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders to a thanksgiving service at Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Auchi.

The event marked the governor’s first anniversary in office. He was elected Edo governor on Nov. 12, 2024.

Okpebholo, in a statement by his media aide, Fred Itua, expressed profound gratitude to God for His grace and faithfulness.

He reaffirmed his administration’s firm commitment to eradicating insecurity and promoting development across all sectors for the benefit of the people.

Okpebholo recalled making a solemn vow a year ago to return in thanksgiving after winning both the primaries and the governorship election.

“Today, I have come to redeem that vow I made a year ago. I also reaffirm my commitment to ensure a brighter future for Edo people,” he said.

The governor extended heartfelt appreciation to the Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr Gabriel Dunia, and the Catholic faithful for their prayers and support.

He described the Church as a vital partner in the journey of faith, leadership, and community development throughout the state.

“I thank the Bishop for his prayers and support. When he spoke today, he truly spoke my mind,” Okpebholo said.

He used the occasion to reflect on his administration’s priorities, highlighting road infrastructure and security as major areas requiring urgent attention.

“We will continue to fight insecurity and ensure that the evil ones are driven out of our midst,” he assured.

Okpebholo sympathised with the Church and families affected by recent kidnappings of priests within the Diocese, pledging swift government intervention.

“There is never a day we are not concerned about insecurity in our land. With prayers and efforts, we shall overcome soon,” he said.

He reiterated his resolve to rebuild Edo on the pillars of peace, faith, and purposeful, people-centred leadership across the state.

The governor stressed that governance must embody compassion, service, and accountability, promising sustained development in every part of Edo.

The thanksgiving service was officiated by Bishop Gabriel Dunia, who preached on cleanliness, holiness, and gratitude as virtues of true leadership.

The Bishop commended Okpebholo for reintroducing the monthly environmental sanitation exercise, calling it a vital step for public health and moral discipline.

He also praised the governor’s integrity and faithfulness, recalling his vow during last year’s service to return for thanksgiving if elected. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo