Divine Mandate: Governor Okpebholo Credits Archbishop Akubeze’s Prayers for Leadership Triumph at 20th Anniversary Celebration


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-By Ruben Mario Brodrick 

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has offered a stirring tribute to the Catholic Archbishop of Benin City, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, identifying the cleric’s spiritual mentorship as the cornerstone of his administration’s success. 

Speaking on Wednesday during a vibrant Thanksgiving Service at St. Paul Catholic Church to mark the Archbishop’s 20th Episcopal Anniversary, the Governor shared personal reflections on how a single encounter with the clergyman redefined his political trajectory and personal resolve.

​Governor Okpebholo recounted his first meeting with Archbishop Akubeze as a defining moment of spiritual clarity, noting that he recognized the "glory of God" upon the cleric immediately. He revealed that he had specifically knelt before the Archbishop at a critical juncture in his journey to seek strength for the challenges ahead. 

According to the Governor, he made a solemn request for prayers to help him combat cultism and dedicatedly work for the people of Edo State. "Today, I am happy that everything I requested has been answered by God," he remarked, attributing his ability to "conquer" political and social hurdles to that foundational moment of intercession.

​The milestone celebration, which honored two decades of the Archbishop’s impactful service and mentorship, drew a distinguished audience of religious and political heavyweights. 

Among those in attendance were the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, former Governor Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, former Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, and the APC State Deputy Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh.

 Their presence underscored the Archbishop’s widespread influence in fostering peace and providing moral guidance that resonates far beyond the pulpit.

​As the Governor expressed his optimism for many more years of the Archbishop's leadership, he emphasized that the cleric’s two decades of episcopal service have been instrumental in shaping the moral fabric of the state. 

The event concluded as a powerful testament to the intersection of faith and governance, with Governor Okpebholo reaffirming his commitment to the state's progress under the continued spiritual shadow of Archbishop Akubeze’s mentorship.

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