By: Odeh Favour Adiya
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has revealed that he began casting out demons at the young age of 17 or 18, drawing a direct connection between his early religious experiences and his administration’s aggressive stance against insecurity and cultism in the state.
Okpebholo made the revelation during a Sunday service at The VOTAGE Church, also known as The Voice of This Age, located at the WINLOS Centre in Benin City.
A video clip of his speech during the worship service resurfaced and began trending across various social media platforms on Tuesday.
Reliving his youthful spiritual encounters, the governor recalled his early days in ministry while addressing the young worshipers present at the service.
“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 further explained that his background in spiritual warfare has equipped him to handle the security challenges confronting Edo State, particularly the menace of secret cults.
“So fighting insecurity, most especially cultism, is not a new thing to me. It’s something that has been happening,” he added.
Confirming the governor’s presence, the management of The VOTAGE Church took to its official Instagram page on Sunday to express gratitude, stating that the church was honored to host him.
The church noted that the worship session provided an opportunity to intercede for the state, describing it as a dedicated time of prayer for the “peace, progress and prosperity of Edo State” while thanking the governor for fellowshiping with the congregation.
Before joining the service at The VOTAGE Church, Governor Okpebholo confirmed in a post on his X handle that he had earlier worshipped at the Living Faith Church situated along Sapele Road in Benin City.
He stated that the church congregation offered special prayers for sustained peace, security, and divine leadership across the state.
According to the governor, the congregation prayed for the “continued peace and protection of Edo State, wisdom and strength for those entrusted with leadership, and God’s blessings on the people and families in the state”.
