Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate, has emerged as the Governor-Elect of Edo State, according to the results declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Sunday evening. As one of the top contenders in the 2024 governorship race, Okpebholo’s victory is seen as a significant win for the entire APC party.
Monday Okpebholo, a successful businessman and philanthropist, centered his campaign on three key pillars: economic growth, infrastructural development, and fostering a secure and prosperous Edo State. His campaign, perhaps, resonated with voters, particularly in a state seeking progress and development.
The Edo governorship election was a closely contested three-horse race among Okpebholo, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP). With 17 candidates vying for the seat, Okpebholo’s win demonstrates his strong support base (including federal might) and campaign strategy.
Early Life of Monday Okpebholo
Monday Okpebholo was born and raised in Edo State, where he gained first-hand knowledge of the challenges faced by his community. He pursued his early education locally and later earned a degree in Business Administration. His academic foundation played a crucial role in his development as a business leader and has influenced his approach to problem-solving in governance.
Professional Background and Business Leadership
Okpebholo is the founder and CEO of Stonemark Group, a conglomerate with diverse interests in construction, real estate, and agriculture. Under his leadership, the company has grown into a major player in Edo State’s economy, contributing to large-scale projects that have improved infrastructure and provided jobs. His contributions include the development of housing estates, road construction, and agricultural initiatives aimed at boosting food security. Through Stonemark Group, Okpebholo has provided employment opportunities for thousands of Edo residents, particularly youth and women.
His success in business and passion for development have made him a respected figure within both the private and public sectors. Okpebholo’s experience running a diverse business portfolio provides him with unique insights into managing the state’s resources efficiently.
Political Experience and Public Service
Though Monday Okpebholo’s formal political career began relatively recently, his public service roots run deep. He has been a key consultant and advisor on several state projects, particularly in infrastructure and rural development. His role as a political leader within the APC has helped shape pro-business policies that prioritise job creation and economic development in Edo State.
Okpebholo has also been active in grassroots mobilisation, working with local communities to ensure their needs are addressed. His ability to connect with and understand the people has helped him build strong relationships across different sectors, making him a formidable political figure. His gubernatorial candidacy is centred on leveraging his business acumen to attract investment and drive sustainable growth in the state.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
A strong advocate for education and healthcare reform, Monday Okpebholo is well-known for his philanthropy. He has provided scholarships for underprivileged students and funded numerous health outreach programs in rural areas. His contributions have included medical supplies and equipment to hospitals and healthcare facilities that serve vulnerable populations in Edo State. Okpebholo’s philanthropic efforts have earned him widespread respect, particularly in communities with limited access to essential services.
Governorship Vision for Edo State
As the APC gubernatorial candidate, Monday Okpebholo’s vision for Edo State revolves around five key pillars: economic growth, infrastructural development, security, education, and healthcare. His business-driven approach to governance prioritises job creation, industrialization, and improving the state’s internally generated revenue. By focusing on these areas, he aims to foster sustainable development that benefits all citizens of Edo State.
Okpebholo’s policy platform includes a strong emphasis on rural development, ensuring that essential services such as water, electricity, and road infrastructure are expanded to every part of the state. His security agenda prioritises reforming law enforcement agencies and enhancing security measures to create a safe environment for businesses to thrive. Education reform is also central to his vision, with plans to modernise the curriculum and ensure teachers receive the necessary training to improve the quality of education. In healthcare, Okpebholo plans to revamp the state’s hospitals and make healthcare more accessible to residents.
Key Campaign Priorities of Monday Okpebholo
- Economic Growth and Industrialization: Attracting local and international investment, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating sustainable jobs through the diversification of the economy.
- Infrastructural Development: Focusing on the expansion and maintenance of infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and water supply, especially in underserved rural areas.
- Security and Law Enforcement: Reforming the state’s security apparatus and law enforcement agencies to ensure a safer environment for Edo residents and businesses.
- Education Reform: Modernising the education system by improving infrastructure, enhancing teacher training, and aligning the curriculum with global standards.
- Healthcare Accessibility: Improving the healthcare system by ensuring that citizens, particularly in rural areas, have access to quality medical care.
Monday Okpebholo’s vision for Edo State is built on his belief in the power of good governance, transparency, and economic empowerment. His background in business and public service positions him as a strong contender in the 2024 gubernatorial race, promising a brighter future for Edo State.
