Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has reaffirmed his administration’s non-interference in local government finances, stressing that his hands-off approach is aimed at empowering grassroots governance and accelerating development across the 18 local government areas of the state.

Speaking during a ceremony held at the Edo State Secretariat in Benin City to present brand-new 2025 model SUVs to all 18 local government chairmen, Governor Okpebholo emphasized transparency and accountability as core principles of his administration.

“I want to thank God for making today possible as chairmen now have the privilege to drive brand new vehicles in the State,” the Governor said. “New things are beginning to happen in Edo State under the watch of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

Governor Okpebholo stated that the vehicles are strictly for official duties and warned the chairmen against using them for personal convenience. He also pledged to monitor their performance to ensure that local government funds are used effectively for grassroots development.

“I know how much you are receiving in the councils, and we will measure your success rate if it is commensurate with what you are receiving. My administration has not interfered with your funds and resources,” he added.

The Governor took a swipe at the past administration, alleging that it neglected the local government system. He affirmed that his leadership has restored respect and operational autonomy to council leaders.

Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Local Government, Community and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Lucky Eseigbe, hailed the Governor’s decision to allow full financial autonomy for local councils. He said this policy has already begun to yield tangible results in rural development projects.

“This is the first time in the history of the State that 2025 models of SUV vehicles are purchased for local government chairmen,” Eseigbe noted. “Blocks of classrooms, healthcare centers, and roads are being constructed across various council areas as a result of the autonomy given to the chairmen.”

While many citizens have welcomed the move, some have raised concerns over the source of funding for the vehicles. Questions have emerged about why the local government authorities, who are said to have full financial autonomy, could not independently budget for their own operational vehicles. Critics are asking whether the SUVs were procured with state funds, and whether such central intervention contradicts the claim of non-interference.

Governor Okpebholo was joined at the commissioning by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, alongside other top government officials.

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