Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has revealed that residents of the state have fondly adopted a new moniker for him, transitioning from his earlier alias, “Akpako Rescue,” to “Okpe’s Baby”.
The Governor stated that the growing warmth and reception he receives during public outings bring him immense personal joy and validation for his administration’s performance.
Governor Okpebholo made these remarks during a live broadcast aired by Independent Television and Radio (ITV/Radio) on Friday evening in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
Recounting a recent unannounced walk along the busy Sapele Road corridor on Thursday afternoon, the Governor described how citizens enthusiastically cheered as his convoy passed through the commercial hub.
”I was on Sapele Road yesterday, and the response from the public was overwhelmingly heartwarming,” Okpebholo shared during the broadcast. “People who once expressed frustration toward political figures are now greeting us with affectionate names. They now call me ‘Okpe’s Baby’ instead of ‘Akpako Rescue,’ and that genuine affection brings me great joy.”
Speaking on the development, the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua, emphasized that the change in nickname reflects the deep-rooted trust and personal connection the populace feels toward the Governor’s governance style.
”The shift in public sentiment is a direct testament to Governor Okpebholo’s hands-on leadership and visible developmental projects across the three senatorial districts,” Itua noted in a statement issued from the Government House in Benin City. “Whether on the streets of Benin City or in rural communities, the citizens are seeing a leader who listens and delivers.”
During the broadcast, Governor Okpebholo also attributed the improving public mood to broader economic stabilization initiatives, expressing confidence in current fiscal policies aimed at easing commodity prices and strengthening local trade.
The Governor reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining direct engagement with Edo residents through routine inspection tours and open dialogue to ensure governance remains closely aligned with public needs.
