Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State on Wednesday asked Edo people to remain steadfast in 2009 when he was expected to deliver dividends of democracy to them.

In a New Year message, Oshiomhole said the year 2008  was for “the deliverance of Edo State from the grips of evil.”

“For us in Edo State, the year 2008 has been one of deliverance, for which we remain immensely thankful to God for manifesting His Will.

“As we have reiterated, the challenge before our government is to deploy our legitimacy and concretely mobilise the people of Edo for the multi-faceted challenges of development.

“With this synergy between government and the people, our State is set for greater strides in governance,” he said.

He said that it was in order to put  people to work, combat poverty and grow the economy of Edo State .
According to him, steps had been taken to eliminate extortion in the school system and to enforce the adoption of  official pricing of petroleum products in the state.

He said gainful employment  of his administration would be consolidated in 2009.

“I wish the good people of Edo State a happy and prosperous 2009. My prayer and hope is that 2009 will be more peaceful and conducive for the progress of our State and country,” he said.