OKPEBHBOLO’S LEADERSHIP TEST: THE UROMI CRISIS AND BEYOND

By Henry J

In the midst of chaos and uncertainty, true leadership is often tested. For Governor Monday Okpebhbolo of Edo State, the Uromi saga presented a defining moment that required wisdom, courage, and a deep understanding of the complexities of human nature.

It began on March 28, when a tragic incident in Uromi sparked widespread outrage and calls for revenge. As the governor, Okpebhbolo was bombarded with diverse concerns, each pulling him in a different direction. Some urged him to take a tough stance against the perpetrators, while others cautioned against escalating the situation.

In the midst of this turmoil, Okpebhbolo drew upon the wisdom of Chief Tony Anenih, who had once advised him to focus on the battle that carries the greatest consequence if lost. This sage counsel guided the governor’s response to the crisis, as he sought to prevent further bloodshed and promote lasting peace.

Okpebhbolo’s first move was to travel to Uromi, where he engaged with the local community, listened to their concerns, and ensured that the bodies of the slain were recovered and transported back to their grieving families. He also charged security agencies to apprehend the perpetrators and met with northern stakeholders to seek their cooperation in promoting peace.

However, Okpebhbolo knew that the matter could not end there. He flew back to Abuja to brief the President and met with security chiefs to ensure national coordination. He also traveled to Kano State, where he met with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and visited the families of the deceased.

In a poignant moment, Okpebhbolo confronted the pain and grief of the families, who had lost loved ones in the violence. He reminded them that many northerners have lived in Edo for decades, just as many Edo indigenes have lived in Kano and across the North. “We are all Nigerians,” he said. “Hate cannot solve this.”

Okpebhbolo’s leadership during the Uromi saga offers valuable lessons in wisdom, courage, and compassion. As he reflected on the experience, he emphasized the importance of focusing on the battle that carries the greatest consequence if lost. “That is leadership,” he said. “That is wisdom. That is why I am here.”

Today, as the tribunal judgement result is set to be announced, Okpebhbolo’s message to the people of Edo State is one of calm and reassurance. “The battle will be over,” he says. “We will talk. We will heal. And together, we will find our own solutions for our own problems.