Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo says combating insecurity is not new to him, citing his early experience in religious ministry. According to his remarks, he began “casting out demons” in his late teens and later frames his current security efforts, particularly against cultism, as an extension of work he says he has long undertaken.
Okpebholo made the comments during church worship in Benin City on Sunday. Nigerian Eye reports he said he started the practice at age 17, while Premium Times frames it as beginning at 18. The accounts also agree that he publicly referenced the services on X and described the time as thanksgiving, fellowship, and prayer.
Both outlets state that Okpebholo expresses confidence that Edo will remain safe. They add that his administration calls for continued peace and protection for the state, along with prayers for leadership and the wellbeing of families. The main difference between the reports is the specific age he gave for starting the ministry.
