Edo: Okpebholo says he was casting out demons at 17, links experience to fight against cultism

By James Ike

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 disclosure in a video trending on X 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 the presence of God reminded him of his early years in Christian ministry.

“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.

He linked his early experiences in ministry to his approach to tackling insecurity in Edo State, particularly cult-related activities.

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

Okpebholo also recalled the influence of the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa on his Christian journey.

“I remember Archbishop Idahosa,” the governor said, referring to the late Pentecostal Christian leader and founder of the Church of God Mission International.

Idahosa, who was a prominent Pentecostal figure in Nigeria, had a particularly strong influence in Edo State through his ministry.

Okpebholo has repeatedly identified insecurity and cult-related violence as among the challenges confronting the state, particularly among young people.

His latest remarks came as his administration continues to emphasise efforts to tackle insecurity and cult-related activities across Edo State.