Edo governor links teenage religious experience to fight against insecurity

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has said experiences he had as a teenager prepared him to confront insecurity, particularly cultism, in the State. Mr. Okpebholo made the remark during a church service at The Votage Church in Benin City on Sunday, where he addressed security challenges facing Edo and the country.

“When I see young ones standing in the presence of God, I remember that at 17 and 18 years, I had also started casting out demons,” he said in a video that later circulated online. He added that fighting insecurity, especially cultism, was not new to him. The governor also referred to the late Archbishop Idahosa and recounted a story involving threats from people described as witches.

He said he believed that nobody at the congregation would die and that Edo would be safe. Mr. Okpebholo called on Nigerians to continue praying for Edo State and the country under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

“The work we are doing isn’t an easy one,” he said. In a statement posted on X after the service, the governor described the gathering as an occasion of thanksgiving, fellowship and prayer. He said his administration, guided by humility, purpose and dedication, would continue focusing on service to residents.

He said the congregation had prayed for the State’s peace and protection, wisdom and strength for leaders, and blessings for residents and their families. He also asked for protection, stronger communities and enduring peace and prosperity. The Votage Church said it was honoured to host the governor.

It said the service included prayers for the peace and prosperity of Edo and described leadership as requiring humility and dependence on God.