In a heartwarming display of unity and celebration, the Executive Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, was honoured with a grand homecoming reception on April 5th, 2025, in Ewatto, Esan South East Local Government Area.
The event was hosted by the globally respected oil and gas magnate, philanthropist, and elder statesman, Chief Dr. Leemon Agbonjiagwe Ikpea (CON, JP).
It marked a momentous occasion in recognition of the Governor’s recent affirmation by the Election Petition Tribunal, reaffirming the mandate given to him by the people of Edo State.
The gathering drew an impressive crowd of traditional rulers, community leaders, stakeholders from Edo Central, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and the diaspora. It was not just a celebration of victory, but a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to service.
Adressing the people, Governor Monday Okpebholo*expressed profound gratitude to the citizens of Edo State for their unwavering prayers, support, and belief in his leadership.
He reassured the people of his dedication to impactful governance, with a promise to prioritize roads, education, healthcare, and access to clean drinking water across all communities.
During his visit, the Governor also inspected the state-of-the-art medical facility under construction in Idumuiyase, Ewatto Kingdom—an initiative of Chief Dr. Leemon Ikpea, which was officially flagged off on August 2024, and promised to complete the project within the period of eight months, for the betterment of Ewatto community and neighborhood, rather than going for a treatment in distance.
The Governor described the project as a monumental blessing to the Esan people and applauded the Ikpea family for their consistent efforts toward the development of Edo State and beyonds.
During the thanksgiving service the Catholic Bishop of Uromi Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Donatus Ogun, called on the people to embrace peace, unity, and the spirit of forgiveness.
He emphasized that leadership is ordained by God, stating, “Power comes from God alone. Let us support those He has placed in authority and work together for the progress of our land.”*
Also speaking, Chief Dr. Leemon Ikpea urged all traditional rulers (Enijies) across Esanland to support Governor Okpebholo’s administration wholeheartedly, emphasizing that collective cooperation and unity are crucial to driving development and attracting meaningful investments to the region.
"This is not just a celebration of victory,” Governor Okpebholo remarked, “but a call to greater service. Together, we will build a state where the impact of governance is felt in every home and every community.”
The event ended with a renewed sense of hope and unity, as the people of Ewatto and the wider Esanland embraced the promise of a brighter, more inclusive future under Governor Okpebholo’s leadership.
Also speaking, Chief Dr. Leemon Ikpea urged all traditional rulers (Enijies) across Esanland to support Governor Okpebholo’s administration wholeheartedly, emphasizing that collective cooperation and unity are crucial to driving development and attracting meaningful investments to the region.
