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The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has assured investors and residents in the state that his government will continue to pursue peace, adding that his administration will leave a 30-year development plan, which subsequent administrations would key into for speedy growth and development of the state.

Obaseki said this when he delivered his speech at the 2019 plenary session of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Edo State chapter held in Benin City.

The governor who noted the need for continuity of projects and plans of government said that in terms of development, there is much to be done in Edo State.

He said, “I didn’t meet any developmental plan for Edo State. When Samuel Ogbemudia was the governor of the state, he developed a 20-year plan for the state. The plan helps to look into the future of the state in terms of development and growth.

“By the grace of God, I will leave a 30-year plan for Edo State. This will enable citizens know what to expect in the state in terms of development and growth at the emergence of any administration and subsequently know how to demand for it.”

The governor further commended the programme with the theme, ‘Prayer for Peace in Nigeria, Now More Than Ever,’ noting that it was apt at a time when the state needs peace to develop.

“We need peace to grow our economy. When there is peace in the state, people would have confidence to invest. My administration is working to ensure there is peace in Edo State but few people have promised to make the state ungovernable, we will maintain peace, but we need prayers too.”

He applauded CAN for their support and prayers for administration, which has contributed positively to the development of the state, stressing that his emergence as Governor of Edo State is through God’s intervention.

The governor attributed the peace and development in the State to the good working relationship between his administration and the Palace of the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II.

Obaseki said, “Three weeks to my inauguration, the Oba of Benin was crowned; working with the traditional institution, we were able to bring development to the state through the disbandment of CDAs and the introduction of government actors in revenue collection.

“We pay salaries as at 26th of every month. I have instructed Chairmen of LGAs to ensure from 1st of January 2020, Local Government workers also receive their salaries on the 26th of every month. Pensioners receive their pension as and when due and they don’t protest again. We have fought the scourge of human trafficking and have now brought dignity to the citizens of the state. I am governor today to give hope to Edo people.”

Delivering his homily titled “Seven things that will happen when there is no peace in the land”, Rev. Fr. Alfred Agbonlahor said when there is no peace in the land, doors are opened for bloodshed and bitterness becomes the order of the day.

He urged the people to pray for the governor to ensure peace in the land as he has impacted the state positively, through his developmental strides.

CAN Chairman, Bishop Oriname Oyonnude Kure, admonished all irrespective of political differences, to join hands with the governor to ensure a progressive Edo State. He thanked the governor for his unfailing passion and uncommon commitment to the progress of Edo State.

“His eagle eyes have helped in the construction of roads across the state, completing abandoned projects, revamping of sporting facilities and education. We must continue to pray and encourage him to break new grounds,” he said.