Every year, Nigerians gather on October 1st to mark Independence Day. For most people, it’s about flags, parades, food, and public holidays. But for politicians in Edo State? 🎤 Independence Day is the perfect stage to make big, bold promises—some kept, some forgotten, and some still floating in the air like NEPA light.

Here are the Top 7 unforgettable times Edo politicians turned Independence Day into a promise-fest:

1. The “Free Education For All” Promise

Back in the day, one Edo governor declared that from Independence Day forward, every child would have access to free education. Parents clapped, teachers danced, children smiled… only for PTA fees to quietly reappear like masquerade the next term. 🎒📚

2. The “Benin Will Be Cleaner Than London” Promise

On one October 1st, another politician boldly claimed that within two years, Benin City would be as clean as London. To be fair, dustbins did appear… but so did goats eating refuse in Ring Road. Edo people still dey wait for their London dream. 🐐🗑️🇬🇧

3. The “Every Road Will Be Tarred” Promise

Who remembers the governor who said on Independence Day: “Every major road in Edo will be tarred before the next Independence celebration!”?
Fast-forward a year later, Edo people were still dodging potholes like Usain Bolt at Uselu. 🚗💨

4. The “1,000 Jobs For Youths” Promise

Independence Day is always a magnet for job promises. One governor once vowed that by the next year, 1,000 youths would be gainfully employed. True true, jobs were created… but only about 250. The rest? Still hustling. Edo youth sabi hustle sha. 💼🔥

5. The “24 Hours Light For Benin” Promise

During one Independence broadcast, a politician said: “Never again will Benin people celebrate Independence in darkness!” NEPA must have laughed from their control room. Because not long after, Benin still had Independence night parties powered by I better pass my neighbor. 💡🔌

6. The “Benin Will Host Africa’s Biggest Festival” Promise

On October 1st, a bold declaration came: Edo will host Africa’s largest cultural and music festival. Big banners went up, big money was “earmarked.” What did we get? A mini-concert with three upcoming artistes and one generator breakdown. 🎤😅

7. The “No More Revenue Leakages” Promise

Just last year, Edo leaders promised that from Independence Day, “Every Kobo will count! No more leakages in government revenue.” Meanwhile, Edo people still dey ask, “Where the money dey go?” At least, this year’s Independence came with ₦79 billion IGR gist. 🤑📊

Conclusion

Independence Day in Edo isn’t just about celebrating Nigeria’s freedom—it’s also a reminder of how much hope Edo people have placed in promises over the years. Some came true, others are still pending, and a few… well, they belong in comedy skits.

But one thing is certain: Edo no dey carry last. Whether politicians keep the promises or not, Edo people will still celebrate with pepper soup, palmwine, and plenty laughter. 🍲🍷😂