Edo governor links his teenage spiritual experiences to his fight against cultism and insecurity in the state

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has revealed that he began engaging in spiritual ministry as a teenager, saying he started “casting out demons” when he was about 17 or 18 years old.

Okpebholo made the disclosure in a video circulating on social media on Tuesday during a visit to the newly inaugurated Winlos Centre, also known as The Votage Church, owned by pastors Ohis and Anwili Ojeikere.

Speaking to the congregation, the governor said seeing young people gathered in worship reminded him of his own early religious experiences.

“When I see young ones standing in the presence of God, I remember at the age of 17/18, I've also started casting out demons,” Okpebholo said.

The governor connected the experience to his position on insecurity and cultism, particularly the long-running problem of cult-related violence in parts of Edo State.

“So fighting insecurity, most especially cultism, is not a new thing to me. It's something that has been happening,” he added.

Okpebholo has made the fight against cultism a prominent part of his administration's security agenda, amid concerns over clashes between rival cult groups in parts of the state, including Benin City and Ekpoma.

The governor also recalled the influence of the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa, founder of the Church of God Mission International in Benin City, on his Christian faith and spiritual journey.

Reactions trail governor's remarks

The governor's comments have generated mixed reactions online, with social media users debating the place of religious experiences in discussions about governance and security.

Some commenters questioned the governor's description of his teenage spiritual activities, while others used humour and criticism in reacting to the video.

One user, @enas4reality1, wrote: “This man day scatter everywhere, the D7 governor, even pastor choke when he hear casting out demons.”

Another commenter, @dollamanhenry, made a mocking remark about the governor's statement, while @Oluchi07051166 questioned why the church gave the governor a platform.

The comments are social media reactions and do not independently establish the claims made by the commenters.

The Votage Church said it was honoured to host the governor and that prayers were offered for peace, progress and prosperity in Edo State.

Okpebholo's remarks come as his administration continues to emphasise security and efforts to curb cult-related activities across Edo. The governor's linking of his personal spiritual history with his approach to combating cultism has also opened a broader public discussion about the role of faith and personal religious experiences in public leadership.