In a robust affirmation of the new administration, the Director General of the Edo State Tourism Agency, Lady Vivian Elabor, has publicly praised Governor Monday Okpebholo for his determination, versatility and resilience.
She stated that these qualities are key to returning Edo State to its deserved state of excellence. Speaking to the press, Lady Elabor quipped with popular local parlance to capture the state’s new spirit, saying, “Edo remains first amongst the best and best amongst the rest. Edo no dey carry last.”
This statement, made in the context of the Revered Monarch, Oba of Benin, His royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II’s historical courtesy visit to the Edo State Government House, firmly places her as a chief promoter of the governor’s agenda for cultural and economic revival.
The visit, one of only three such on record, sparked monumental achievements as Governor Monday Okpebholo responding to the great Monarch’s call for a revisit of the controversy surrounding the return of looted Benin artifacts by European countries, made immediate move to resolve the issues.
Okpebholo, earning the Oba and the People’s admiration yet again, ordered the retention of the original concept of the home of the looted Benin artifacts as BENIN ROYAL MUSEUM as against the proposed Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA) which the Oba accused was masterminded by Former Governor Obaseki in a fraudulent manner.
Okpebholo maintained that while he had the intention to reverse the anomaly, he was further spurred by a video where his predecessor, Obaseki made a promise to the Royal house to provide the museum before later reneging on the made promise.
The Governor’s actions further strengthened earlier submissions made by Lady Vivian Elabor that, “This is a Governor who listens, is ready to correct past mistakes and is determined to unite the people of Edo State!”
