Edo Governor Okpebholo Struggles with Budget Presentation in Viral Video

• Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo struggled to present the proposed N605 billion budget, leading to confusion during his State Assembly address
• The budget, titled “Budget of Renewed Hope for a Rising Edo,” reflects a 25% increase from the previous year’s budget

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, encountered difficulties while presenting the proposed 2025 budget to the State House of Assembly on Tuesday, leading to confusion that quickly went viral on social media.

In a 1-minute, 17-second video, the governor struggled to articulate the N605 billion budget figure while unveiling the Appropriation Bill. Despite his stuttering, he persevered and eventually completed his presentation.

“The Edo State 2025 budget… appropriation Bill of six billion, sixty and fifty, six hundred five billion, seventy six thousand, seventy six million, seventy six… Let me take it again,” he said as he attempted to clarify the amount.

After several attempts, he admitted, “It is confusing me,” as murmurs filled the chamber.

The Speaker of the Assembly intervened to restore order, calling for silence in the chamber. With the room quiet, Governor Okpebholo resumed his address, saying:

“…six hundred and five billion and details of the budget propose, propose, proposal for your co-suggestion, consideration and approval. Thank you for your kind consideration.”

The governor’s stumble quickly became a trending topic online, with the video drawing mixed reactions from viewers.

Some criticized the incident, citing the importance of preparation, while others empathized with the governor, pointing out the pressures of public speaking and the complexity of budget figures.

Governor Okpebholo, sworn in last month following his victory in the October off-cycle election, is navigating his early days in office. The presentation of the 2025 budget marks one of his first major public engagements as governor.

The proposed budget is expected to focus on key developmental priorities for Edo State, with details yet to be fully disclosed.