The newly elected chairmen in Edo have pledged to address insecurity and improve infrastructure, healthcare and education in their respective local government areas.

The chairmen made the pledge on Monday in Benin, shortly after receiving their certificates of return from the Edo Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC).

The certificates were presented at the commission’s headquarters by EDSIEC chairman, Jonathan Aifuobhokhan, following the recently concluded local government elections.

Speaking after collecting his certificate, Robert Akande, chairman-elect of the Akoko-Edo local government council, described his victory as a mandate to serve the people and promised to make security one of his administration’s top priorities.

He said his administration would work closely with security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to tackle insecurity, while also rehabilitating dilapidated schools, health facilities, court buildings and other public infrastructure across the council area.

Mr Akande also pledged to unite residents irrespective of political affiliation, saying he would govern for everyone in Akoko-Edo.

“I am now the chairman-elect for the entire Akoko-Edo local government area, not just the APC. We are going to bring our people together, irrespective of political differences, and ensure they enjoy the dividends of democracy.

“On security, we will partner with security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to reduce insecurity to the barest minimum,” he said.

Similarly, Romeo Alaoye, chairman-elect of the Etsako West local government area, also promised prudent management of public funds.

His administration, he said, would focus on improving security, healthcare and basic education in collaboration with the state government.

According to him, investing in primary education and delivering meaningful development at the grassroots would remain key priorities of his administration.

“We are going to make sure taxpayers’ money is used for the benefit of our people. We will work with the state government to improve security, strengthen healthcare and give more attention to basic education because that is where every child’s future begins,” Mr Alaoye said.

Mr Aifuobhokhan, while presenting the certificates of return, congratulated the elected chairmen and councillors, urging them to justify the confidence reposed in them by the electorate through dedicated service, accountability and respect for democratic principles.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) won in all the 18 local government areas of the state, where elections were held on Saturday. 

(NAN)