Cephas Yakubu Emerges As Symbol Of Governor Okpebholo’s Youth Inclusiveness

The recent impeachment of the former Executive Chairman and Vice Chairman of Etsako Central Local Government Council over allegations of gross misconduct marked a defining moment in the council’s political history.

From that, the constitutional process emerged a new phase of leadership anchored on youth, competence and service, with the swearing-in of Rt. Hon. (Amb.) Cephas Yakubu as Acting Chairman in January 2025.

A statement signed by Elias Inaede Immediate Past APC Publicity Secretary, Etsako Central Local Government Area, says Rt. Hon. Cephas Yakubu, the youngest Local Government Council Chairman in Edo State and Nigeria, has since justified the confidence reposed in him, becoming a practical demonstration of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to youth inclusiveness and empowerment under the SHINE Agenda.

“His emergence has brought renewed hope and joy to the people of Etsako Central Local Government Area,” the statement read in parts.

Born on September 5, 1995, into the Yakubu family of Anegbette town in South Uneme Clan, Cephas Yakubu’s rise is rooted in a solid educational and professional background. He attended Imiava Primary School and Anegbette Secondary School before proceeding to Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, where he earned a B.Sc. in Public Administration in 2019.

He later gained valuable managerial and human resource experience working with Dynamic Construction Company and as a Hotel Manager in Lagos.

Driven by passion for service and community development, he ventured into politics and was elected Councillor representing Ward 9, where he was unanimously chosen as Leader of the Etsako Central Legislative Arm.” The statement read in parts.

His tenure as legislative leader was said to have been marked by unity, effective leadership and broad-based support from colleagues.

Since assuming office as Acting Chairman following the impeachment, Rt. Hon. Yakubu has focused on building bridges of unity across communities while delivering tangible grassroots development.

His administration has recorded notable achievements, including the construction of a block of six classrooms, 30 open market stalls, the installation of an industrial power borehole, and the reconstruction of the council abattoir.

In the health sector, his people-oriented leadership has been evident through impactful medical outreach programmes. Notably, Etsako Central Local Government received recognition as the best Local Government in HPV vaccination and cervical cancer prevention, an award that underscores its administration’s commitment to public health and well-being.

Rt. Hon. Yakubu has also distinguished himself as a worker-friendly chairman, ensuring prompt payment of salaries and arrears, while promoting improved security, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths.

Within just one year in office, his visible achievements and inclusive governance have earned him widespread acceptance and trust. Rt. Hon. Cephas Yakubu stands today as one of the finest Local Government Chairmen Etsako Central has produced and a clear testament to Governor Monday Okpebholo’s vision of empowering young people to lead and deliver.