By Simeon OSAJIE
The Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo on Wednesday attributed part of his leadership success to the spiritual guidance and prayers of His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City, as the cleric marked his 20th Episcopal Anniversary.
Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Monday Okpebholo stated this in a press statement made available to journalists in Benin, the state capital.
According to Dr. Ebojele, the Governor while speaking during the ceremony, recounted his first encounter with Archbishop Akubeze, describing it as a defining moment that shaped his political journey and personal resolve to serve the people of Edo State.
According to the Governor, “To me, it is a special day. The first day I met him, I saw the glory of God upon his life. I knew, by the time I knelt before him, that I was going to conquer,”
Governor Okpebholo disclosed that he had sought the Archbishop’s prayers at a critical point in his journey, particularly as he prepared to take on key challenges confronting the state.
Okpebholo added, “I requested a prayer from him. I said I was going to fight cultism and work for Edo people. I needed him to pray for me so that God would give me the strength. Today, I am happy that everything I requested has been answered by God,”
The governor emphasized that Archbishop Akubeze’s spiritual support played a significant role in strengthening his resolve and guiding his actions in office, noting that the milestone anniversary was not only a celebration of years but of impactful service and mentorship.
He further congratulated the Archbishop on his 20 years in episcopal service, expressing optimism for many more years of influence and leadership within the church and society.
He said: “This is 20 years, and we are still expecting more years to come,”
The thanksgiving service, held on Wednesday at St. Paul Catholic Church, drew prominent dignitaries, religious leaders, and well-wishers from across the state and beyond.
The event was graced by several high-profile personalities, including the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion; former Edo State Governor, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun; and former Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, APC State Deputy Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh, among others.
Archbishop Akubeze’s two decades of episcopal leadership have been widely recognized for fostering spiritual growth, promoting peace, and influencing governance through moral guidance, an impact that continues to resonate in the lives of leaders and citizens alike.