RismadarVoice Reporters
September 29, 2026
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has recalled his early involvement in Christian ministry, saying he began casting out demons at the age of 17 or 18.
Okpebholo made the remarks in a video circulating on social media on Tuesday while speaking at the newly inaugurated Winlos Centre owned by Pastor Ohis and Anwili Ojeikere.
The governor said seeing young people gathered in worship reminded him of his early years in Christian ministry.
“When I see young ones standing in the presence of God, I remember that at the age of 17/18, I’ve also started casting out demons,” he said.
Okpebholo linked his early experiences to his administration’s efforts to tackle insecurity, particularly cult-related activities in Edo State.
“So fighting insecurity, most especially cultism, is not a new thing to me. It’s something that has been happening,” he said.
The governor also recalled the influence of the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa on his Christian journey.
“I remember Archbishop Idahosa,” he said.
Idahosa, founder of the Church of God Mission International, was a prominent Nigerian Pentecostal leader whose ministry was based in Benin City.
Okpebholo’s administration has identified insecurity and cult-related violence among the challenges requiring government intervention in Edo State.
