Senator Monday Okpebholo presented 17 brand-new 2025 model SUVs to local government chairmen on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at the State Secretariat in Benin City. He declared that his administration does not interfere with local government funds, emphasizing that this autonomy is driving rapid development across the state’s 18 local government areas.
Okpebholo stated, “New things are beginning to happen in Edo State under the watch of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The vehicles commissioned today are not for the private use of the local government chairmen but for the development of the people at the grassroots. I will monitor you to ensure the right thing is done”.
The Commissioner for Local Government, Community and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Lucky Eseigbe, praised the Okpebholo’s approach, noting that this is the first time in Edo’s history that such a fleet of new vehicles has been provided to council chairmen. He credited the move with enabling significant progress in infrastructure, healthcare, and education at the local level.
Critics, however, point to ongoing controversies regarding the suspension of elected local government chairmen and allegations of disregard for judicial orders. Despite these concerns, Okpebholo insists that his administration’s hands-off approach to council funds is fostering transparency and measurable results.
