Edo Governor-Elect Makes Historic First Appointment

Okpebholo's Key Move - Fred Itua Named Chief Press Secretary

Fred Itua, a seasoned journalist with The Sun newspaper, brings over 13 years of experience in media and...

Edo State Governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has made his first major appointment, naming Fred Itua as Chief Press Secretary for his incoming administration. This announcement was made by Okpebholo's media team in Abuja on November 11, and marks the beginning of filling key roles ahead of the inauguration and transition from outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki on November 12.

Edo State Governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has made his first appointment, naming Fred Itua as his Chief Press Secretary. This announcement comes just a day before Okpebholo's inauguration, scheduled for November 12, 2024. Itua, an experienced journalist and Assistant Political Editor at The Sun Newspaper, will officially assume his duties after the swearing-in ceremony.

This strategic appointment marks the beginning of Okpebholo's administration, and Itua's expertise is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the governor's message and communication strategy.

Fred Itua, a seasoned journalist with The Sun newspaper, brings over 13 years of experience in media and communications to his new role. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, and a master's in Media Arts from the University of Abuja. Currently, he is completing his Ph.D. thesis in Development Communication at Veritas University, Abuja. Itua's expertise spans diverse issues, including humanitarian crises and national governance, making him an excellent fit for this critical position.

As Chief Press Secretary, Itua will lead Okpebholo's media team, leveraging his strategic approach to craft compelling narratives and communicate the administration's policies effectively. His appointment sets the stage for the governor-elect's transition into office, with more key roles expected to be filled in the coming days.

Itua, a seasoned journalist, is set to lead the governor's media team, bringing a wealth of experience from his time at Leadership and The Sun newspapers. His impressive educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in English from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, a Master's in Media Arts from the University of Abuja, and a nearly completed PhD thesis in Development Communication at Veritas University, Abuja.

As a veteran journalist, Itua has developed expertise in various fields, including:

National Assembly: In-depth coverage of Nigeria's legislative body

Migration: Insightful reporting on movement and resettlement issues

Health: Comprehensive coverage of medical breakthroughs and challenges

Anti-Corruption: Unwavering commitment to exposing wrongdoing

Environmental Issues: Dedicated reporting on sustainability and conservation

With this diverse experience, Itua is well-equipped to navigate both national and global affairs, making him an invaluable asset to the governor's media team.

Background 

Edo Governor-Elect, Monday Okpebholo

Monday Okpebholo, the candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC), has been declared the winner of the Edo state gubernatorial election, securing 291,667 votes and winning 11 out of 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs). Okpebholo, a senator representing Edo Central senatorial district since 2023, ran on a platform to continue the developmental projects initiated by former governor Adams Oshiomhole.

Early Life and Education

Born on August 10, 1970, in Udomi-Uwessan community of Irrua, Okpebholo began his education at Udomi Community Primary School and Ujabhole Community Secondary School. He obtained a degree in Business Administration from the University of Abuja and holds a Master's degree in Policy and Leadership Studies from the same institution.

Career and Philanthropy

Okpebholo is recognized for his charitable work through the Monday Okpebholo Foundation, which offers scholarships, healthcare services, and vocational training to underprivileged communities. His campaign focused on economic reform, foreign investment, and infrastructure development to bring stability and growth to Edo.

2024 Edo State Gubernatorial Election

The election was marked by controversy, with PDP and Governor Obaseki alleging electoral malpractices and accusing INEC of favoring the APC. Despite this, Okpebholo emerged victorious, defeating PDP candidate Asue Ighodalo and Labour Party candidate Olumide Akpata.