Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has revealed that he began casting out demons at the age of 17 or 18, a statement that has sparked widespread reactions on social media. The governor made the remark while addressing young worshippers at The Winlos Centre, home of The Votage church, led by Apostle Ohis and Prophetess Anwinli Ojeikere, on Sunday, September 27, 2026.
Governor's Spiritual Claim Draws Attention
In a video clip shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, by user @dammiedammie35, Okpebholo said: "When I see young ones standing in the presence of God, I remember at 17, 18 I started casting out demons too." He added, "So fighting insecurity, most especially cultism, is not a new thing to me. It's something that has been happening."
The 29-second clip had amassed over 25,700 views by the time of posting, according to Legit.ng, the outlet that first reported the story. The video quickly went viral, drawing both criticism and support from Nigerians online.
Mixed Reactions From Nigerians Online
Many social media users questioned the governor's claim in relation to his performance in office. @callmeuchman wrote: "Please can someone help me explain what this man is saying? He has been casting out demons when he was 17 years old, but you cannot cast out the demons in your state to make it better as a Governor."
@emmanueldanjum1 took a more measured position, stating: "Hmmm, who am I to judge, if na lie abi na true? It is one thing to have been used by God to do wonders, and it is another thing to still be relevant in that realm or lose the efficacy of the power of God through greed."
However, not all responses were critical. @adjudikator defended the governor, writing: "Bro, if him say he cast demons then he cast demons be that ? you're questioning his statement but you dey believe that your pastor ??." @whattodo332 urged restraint among critics, adding: "You all should calm down; you can cast and bind demons if you have faith and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ."
@Candiv15 suggested the remark may have been misread by many, noting: "His phrase might well be misunderstood by everyone. We all know how Benin boys cast out demons from guys on the streets."
Governor's Remarks Amid Leadership Crisis
The viral video comes amid a political crisis in Edo State. Legit.ng also reported that Okpebholo called on members of the state house of assembly to set aside personal differences following a leadership crisis. The governor's remarks came after former speaker Blessing Agbebaku resigned amid threats of impeachment over alleged vehicle procurement fraud.
Okpebholo warned new speaker Yekini Idaiye that excluding members from legislative affairs could trigger fresh divisions in the assembly. The governor's spiritual claim and his handling of the assembly crisis have both become topics of intense public debate, with many observers linking the two in their assessment of his leadership.
