Okpebholo: i started casting out demons at 17
The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has said he started casting out demons at the age of 17 or 18, linking his early religious experience to his stance against insecurity and cultism in the state.
Okpebholo made the statement during a Sunday service at The VOTAGE Church, also known as The Voice of This Age, at the WINLOS Centre in Benin City.
A video of the governor making the remark resurfaced and began trending on social media on Tuesday.
“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 added, “So fighting insecurity, most especially cultism, is not a new thing to me. It’s something that has been happening.”
The VOTAGE Church confirmed the governor’s attendance in a post on Instagram on Sunday, saying it was honoured to host him.
The church said the service was dedicated to prayers for the “peace, progress and prosperity of Edo State” and thanked the governor for worshipping with the congregation.
Okpebholo also confirmed his attendance in a post on X, saying he worshipped at Living Faith Church on Sapele Road before later attending The VOTAGE Church in Benin City.
He said 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.
