Senator Okpebholo and The Principle of Utilitarianism

The notion that governance should deliver the greatest happiness to the greatest number of people is a fundamental principle of utilitarianism. In this context, I must commend the current Governor of Edo State, Senator Okpebholo, for his interventions that have positively impacted the lives of many.

One notable example is Ambrose Alli University, where staff who had been removed from the payroll have now received their salaries, bringing relief to them and their families. Additionally, medical students of the university who were previously unable to be inducted can now proceed with their housemanships, thanks to the governor’s intervention.

The governor’s efforts to address infrastructure challenges, such as the rehabilitation of the Iruekpen axis of the Benin-Auchi highway, demonstrate his commitment to prioritising the welfare and happiness of the people.

I must also acknowledge the governor’s decision to revamp the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS), which had suffered under the previous administration’s policy of transferring professionals to various ministries and departments. I have in my previous interventions called for a reversal of that policy which in my opinion was not well thought through by the Obaseki Administration. The consequences of that policy were devastating, leading to the near collapse of the broadcast outfit.

The reinstatement of sacked staff at Ambrose Alli University is a testament to Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to fairness and justice. His administration’s efforts to address the grievances of the affected staff demonstrate a resolve to prioritise justice and fairness in correcting past missteps.

As a stakeholder who has firsthand experience with EBS, I am particularly emotional about the coming on air of EBS Ihievbe, which was my last posting before retirement. I must thank Senator Okpebholo for appointing Sulai Aledeh to pilot the Service, a decision that justifies my earlier assertion that it’s profitable for professionals to manage broadcast outfits.

Concluding therefore, Governor Okpebholo’s interventions have demonstrated a commitment to delivering happiness to the greatest number of people, aligning with the principles of utilitarianism. As someone who remains “Obidient,” neither APC or PDP, but partyless, I commend the governor’s efforts and look forward to seeing more positive changes in Edo State.

Frederick Braimah. Ph.D.