Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday inaugurated 19 new Commissioners, alongside several Chairmen and Members of Boards and Commissions, with a firm warning against corruption and acts capable of undermining the integrity of his administration.

The ceremony, held at the Government House in Benin City, was attended by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa; Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi (SAN); Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Musa Ikilor; Chief of Staff, Alhaji Gani Audu; serving Commissioners, Special Advisers, Permanent Secretaries, and other senior government officials.

Governor Okpebholo said the appointments were based strictly on merit and not political patronage, stressing that the positions are a call to service rather than personal reward.

“Your nominations did not come as a reward or patronage, but as a call to serve the people of Edo State,” Okpebholo said.

“This administration came into office on the promise of practical governance to touch the lives of our people directly,” he said.

Reiterating his commitment to service delivery and measurable results, the governor stated that his administration’s focus is on tangible achievements rather than propaganda.

“Our focus is not on propaganda but on service delivery and tangible results that can be felt in every community across our state,” he emphasised.

Governor Okpebholo urged the appointees to see their new roles as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the State’s development, warning against corruption and self-enrichment.

“While I congratulate you on your deserved elevation, I must warn that your appointment is not for personal enrichment. You are not here for money-making, but for service, sacrifice, and a better life for Edo people.

“This administration has zero tolerance for corruption. You are expected to display discipline, teamwork, and a shared sense of purpose. I expect loyalty to the people of Edo State. History will judge us not by our intentions, but by our actions,” he added.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to rebuilding and repositioning Edo State for sustainable growth and restoring public confidence in governance.

“Today marks another important step in our journey to rebuild and reposition Edo State for development.

“Together, let us prove that government can work for the people. Let us write a new chapter where service comes before self and show that a new Edo has truly risen,” he affirmed.

Speaking on behalf of the new appointees, Hon. Ebea Festus Odianonsen thanked the Governor for the confidence reposed in them and pledged their full commitment to his developmental agenda.

“We thank the Governor for finding us worthy to serve. We pledge to support your developmental agenda and ensure that all your promises to the people of Edo State and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are fully realised,” Odianonsen said.

He assured that the Commissioners and board members would work tirelessly to help the administration deliver on its promise of effective governance and political stability across the State.