Edo Governor Picks Igbo Community Leader As Commissioner-Designate

By Ayo Kehinde

 Governor Monday Okpebholo of Editors State has nominated an Igbo community leader and businessman, Martin Anayochukwu Oli, as Commissioner-designate, in a move the state government says underscores its commitment to inclusive governance and broader representation of the state’s diverse ethnic communities.

The nomination was announced on Friday in a statement issued by the Secretary to the Edo State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., and signed by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Dr Patrick Akhere Ebojele.

According to the statement, Oli, who hails from Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, becomes the second non-Edo indigene nominated into Governor Okpebholo’s administration since the governor assumed office.

The government noted that the appointment follows the November 2024 appointment of Hon. Abdulkarim Kadiri, a respected leader of the Hausa-Fulani community in Edo State, as Special Adviser on Community Matters, describing both appointments as evidence of the administration’s determination to build an inclusive government that reflects the state’s diversity.

It stated that Edo State is home to several ethnic nationalities, including Igbo, Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba and other communities, whose economic, cultural and social contributions have become integral to the state’s development.

According to the statement, Governor Okpebholo believes governance should provide opportunities for all residents who have contributed to the growth of Edo State, irrespective of their ethnic backgrounds.

The government said the governor’s approach represents a shift towards a more participatory governance model that recognises competence, commitment and community service in public appointments.

“Governor Okpebholo believes that inclusive governance is not just rhetoric. It requires listening to the people, understanding their concerns, and giving them seats where decisions are made”, the statement read.

The government described Oli as an accomplished entrepreneur with considerable private sector experience and a respected community advocate within Edo’s Igbo community.

It said he has supported several grassroots development initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities, adding that his nomination reflects the administration’s emphasis on merit and service.

The statement added that Oli’s nomination would now be forwarded to the Edo State House of Assembly for legislative screening and confirmation in line with constitutional provisions before he can assume office.