₦airaland Forum

*The Primacy of Truth (Part 7)*

*By Crusoe Osagie*

Growing up in Benin City in the mid-1980s, everyone knew the houses in the neighbourhood where they owned video cassette players.

*There* were mainly two types: VHS or Betamax.

Maybe once in a month or even less frequently, many children will gather in the home where they owned one of these gadgets to watch a movie.

‘Snake in the Monkey Shadow’ or ‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’ were some of the common titles at that time.

Around that time, one of my uncles, Mr. John Omodamwen of blessed memory returned from the United States of America where he had gone to earn a Master's Degree.

He rented a house on Asabor Street, just five minute’s walk from my father’s house on Jemide Drive-both streets are off Goodwill Street, in Ekenhuan Road, Benin City.

Mr. Omodamwen was yet to be married to his extremely pretty wife (who he later tied the knot with) at the time and so being a bachelor, it was thoroughfare for me and my siblings inside his apartment.

And guess what?

He returned from the United States with a video cassette player. It was a jackpot for me and my siblings. We were at his place every day that we weren’t in school to watch ‘Death Wish’, and ‘War Bus,’ among others.

Fast forward to the late 1990s and 2000s, the smooth Asabor Street where my uncle, Omodamwen initially rented a house (he had since moved to his own home) had been overtaken by flood.

A clean, paved road had become a swamp!

It seemed to have happened suddenly because I was distracted by university education *pursuit* at that time, and I was always away from Benin City.

Childhood family friends, the Ereses, the Imades, and many others were contemplating abandoning their homes. A few landlords on that street sold their homes for a pittance and moved from being homeowners to tenants again. Some died from the frustration.

Governor Godwin Obaseki came to power in 2016, and about a year later, he fixed that road with a very elaborate drainage system.

My friends, William Erese, a one-time African record holder in the 110-meter hurdles, Bright Imade, Queen Imade, Eghosa Imade, the Aihevbas and several others had their homes redeemed by this effort of Governor Obaseki.

After Asabor Street, Obaseki went on to fix other roads in the area, including Iriajen Street, where a popular local politician and my father’s friend, Pa Goodluck Okhuarobo lives. He also fixed Aerodrome Close, College Road, Joromi Street and environs, where Sir. Victor Uwaifo lived. The list is endless.

Should the funds deployed to save these neighbourhoods have been handed over to the powerful politicians with access to Government House in sacks?

Will the Ereses, the Imades, the Aihevbas, the Obakpolors, the Okhuarobos; their children and grandchildren sit idly and watch the Lions and Tigers take us back to the dark years where all was well as long as the politically connected were feeding fat?

The jury is out and the battleground is the gubernatorial election on September 21, 2024.

Sadly, not many will read this. Our people are inundated by a deluge of tall tales and they can hardly find space to accommodate the Primacy of Truth.



*Watch out for Part 8.*

*Osagie, a journalist, is the Special Adviser to Governor Godwin Obaseki on Media Projects*

*The Primacy of Truth (Part 5)*

*By Crusoe Osagie*

Just before the Edo 2020 gubernatorial election which returned Governor Godwin Obaseki to office for a second term, not less than five markets in Benin City went up in flames.

Ekiosa, Oba Market, Oliha Market, Spare parts Market, Santana Market, you name it; they were all razed just before the poll.

Has anyone on the side of the Primacy of Truth ever wondered why over five large markets went up in flames in less than six months before September 19, 2020 and not a single one has caught fire since then?

Well, the answer is simple. These market fires were not accidents. They were arsons!

I have tried hard to understand why the Lions and Tigers elected to set our mothers’, fathers’ and friends’ small businesses on fire in the hope that it will make Obaseki’s government look bad and cost him his reelection.

Come to think of it. It was very frustrating for the hoodlums.

The more they vilified Obaseki, the more popular he got. Instead of trying to understand why the ordinary people stood firmly behind the governor, they devised one wicked plan after the other just to blackmail the governor and cast aspersions on him.

They didn’t care whose life was destroyed as long as they brought Obaseki down.

People’s lives were ruined. Some market men and women did not only keep their wares in their shops within the market, they also kept all their market money there. Both their wares and their money all went up in smoke.

Some died; some lost their sanity, while others managed to rebuild their lives again, starting from scratch.

All these on the back of the brawn of a few people with access to political power, who felt that Obaseki’s style of governance which returned power to the people at the expense of the influence of the politically powerful was, for them, an existential threat.

Will the children and grandchildren of all those who lost their lives to the frustration of losing their businesses to these arsonists sit idly and watch these Lions and Tigers return to power?

The jury is out, and the battleground is the gubernatorial election on September 21, 2024.

Sadly, not many will read this. Our people are inundated by a deluge of tall tales and they can hardly find space to accommodate the Primacy of Truth.

*Watch out for Part 6.*

*Osagie, a journalist, is the Special Adviser to Governor Godwin Obaseki on Media Projects*

*The Primacy of Truth (Part 3)*

*By Crusoe Osagie*

"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears;

"I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him.

"The evil that men do lives after them;

"The good is oft interred with their bones."

The last two lines of the preceding quote by Mark Antony in his funeral oration for Julius Caesar after he was killed with 23 stab wounds by the Roman senators, including his confidant Brutus have provoked my imagination extremely in the last 48 hours.

Perhaps human nature does not change much, otherwise, how can Mark Antony's words remain the indisputable truth over 425 years after they were spoken?

All I hear from the exclusive club of politicians with access to power who have been on the tip of my pen for the last one week are the 'evil' that Governor Godwin Obaseki has done to their access to our collective patrimony.

These few bigwigs, as they call themselves, with no clear sources of wealth that finance their elaborate estates have since sent their minions to try to assail the Primacy of Truth. Unfortunately, they have not been able to summon the intelligence necessary to debate at this level.

In this third part of the series, after a lesson from the wise words of Antony, I want to place more truths on record that they may not be interred by the deluge of obnoxious lies frequently heralded by these enemies of the masses.

Seldom spoken of is the truth that Governor Obaseki has cleared all the pension liabilities dating back over 30 years along with the first pension harmonisation in the last 22 years.

My 80-year-old father, Mr. Matthew Osagie, like many other pensioners, is a beneficiary.

What about the capturing of all state pensioners in the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme (EdoHIS), ensuring that they have access to quality healthcare till they leave this world? Is this an act of wickedness?

Is it callous of Obaseki to have recruited over 5000 (five thousand) people into the State’s civil and public service in the last seven and a half years, paying their salaries promptly on the 26th of every month or earlier, when other States have been letting go of their employees?

Will Obaseki be considered hard-hearted for migrating workers in the State into the Contributory Pension Scheme, ensuring that these workers are well-catered for after their active years in service?

Obaseki has cleared the pension arrears owed Local Government pensioners from 1984 till date after nearly 40 years of neglect! Is this an act of wickedness too?
He has now established the Local Government Pensions Bureau, which caters to the needs of retirees from the State's 18 local governments, ensuring that their entitlements are promptly sorted as and when due.

Will these senior citizens and retirees along with their children and grandchildren for whose benefits Obaseki contended with the powers that be rise in his defense?

The jury is out and the battleground is the gubernatorial election on September 21, 2024.

Sadly, not many will read this. Our people are inundated by a deluge of tall tales and they can hardly find space to accommodate the Primacy of Truth.

*Watch out for Part 4.*

*Osagie, a journalist, is the* *Special Adviser to Governor* *Godwin Obaseki* *on Media Projects*

Obaseki, the defender of the oppressed in Edo

By Joseph Osaru

Since Governor Godwin Obaseki took office in 2016, he has deployed a deft approach to governance aimed at providing succor to the weak, oppressed, marginalized and vulnerable members of the society with a focus to addressing their needs.

Edo people will not forget in a hurry the days when thugs wielded giant whips, flogging poor mothers struggling to eke out a living in markets and harassing and oppressing commercial bus drivers who toil night and day to cater for their families. These criminal elements perpetuated this in the guise of revenue generation, with over 90 percent of the said ‘revenue’ collected ending up in their private purse.

Today, the story has changed for the better and sanity has been restored to the Benin metropolis on the back of the governor’s innovative revenue collection system.

Not many would forget how the people of the State were subjected to subjugation and exploitation in the hands of killer community gangs who perpetuated their evil in the guise of Community Development Associations (CDAs) until Obaseki sanitized the system.

That era when one ‘strong’ man was selling a parcel of land to 20 people amid a myriad of attacks on the State’s real estate developers by notorious criminal elements who hounded genuine investors and halted development in the State.

But the governor changed all of these. He introduced nuanced land administration reforms, proscribing the activities of these CDAs and criminal gangs and creating the State’s Geographic Information Service, which today delivers C-of-Os to property owners in less than five weeks, and at an affordable price.

Can we forget in a hurry the pitiable sight of our pensioners wearing black and black, sitting, walking, running across major Streets within the Benin metropolis, protesting their unpaid pensions and gratuities? When our mothers, fathers and older citizens were oppressed and subjected to extreme suffering and severe hardship, with many of them dying without getting their entitlements despite giving their all in service to the State?

Today, Edo is the darling of workers and pensioners. It is unsurprising that these pensioners who are invariably the happiest in the country have now become ardent lovers and supporters of the governor who has kept to his promise of paying them their pensions as and when due. The governor has also harmonised pension and started to clear gratuities of retirees in the State.

For the political scene, the governor has also made manifest an undying commitment to ending oppression in all its guise and form. He has enthroned equity and fairness across the State, creating opportunities for marginalized areas to attain political ascendancy. The examples of this abound.

The people of Owan had suffered long-standing political marginalization as they never got the opportunity to occupy any leadership position in the history of the State but for the first time Obaseki ended this form of political relegation, giving the Owan people an opportunity at leadership through their son, Blessing Agbebaku who currently serves as the Speaker of the 8th House of Assembly.

For the Esan people, who have not had any significant representation in the governance of the State since 1999, except for the short reign of Oserheimen Osunbor as governor between 2007 and 2008, it was Governor Obaseki who initiated the idea of ceding the position of the next governor to them, in the spirit of equity, justice and fairness.

Today, a successful son of Esanland, Dr. Asue Ighodalo is the governorship candidate of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). That was what also forced the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) to cede their party ticket to an Esan man.

Akoko Edo, which is one of the oldest local government areas in Nigeria, had not also had an opportunity for fair representation in government except when the governor appointed their son, Taiwo Akerele, to serve as his former Chief of Staff.

The governor also most recently shattered the age-long jinx of marginalization and political exclusion of the Akoko Edo people with his decision to appoint 37-year-old Omobayo Marvellous Godwins as his new deputy following the impeachment of his former deputy, Philip Shaibu by the State Assembly.

Is it not clear that Governor Obaseki is the defender of the oppressed? People-centric, the governor has continued to pursue an agenda to provide succor to the weak, marginalized, oppressed and vulnerable members of the society. This is more than enough reason to be grateful to Governor Obaseki.

Osaru, a freethinker, writes from Edebiri Street, Oredo LGA

This is barbaric and condemnable… the man has his right to freedom of association as enshrined in our constitution

Edo govt, NDLEA restrategise on combating drug menace, begins rehabilitation of 12 drug addicts

mops up 153,000kg of cannabis, destroys 14,000 tonnes, others

The Edo State Government is strengthening collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other sister security agencies to improve strategies and efforts at combating the drug menace in the State.

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, received the new Commander of NDLEA in the State, Callys Alumona and other officers of the agency at the Government House, Benin City, to brainstorm and chart ways to strengthen the war against illicit drugs in the State.

Obaseki represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Osaigbovo Iyoha, said the government was empowering youths in the State to discourage them from substance abuse and other social vices, commending the new commander for raiding hotspots in the State and other efforts to end the menace in Edo State.

He said, “The issue of drugs for us is a problem that we are taking seriously as an administration because the drug problem leads to other criminal activities. Most accidents occur as a result of the abuse and use of drugs.

“Government is taking the issue of drug abuse seriously. We have visited Col. Buba Maruwa in Abuja to discuss how to rid the State of illicit drugs. It is important that you have visited Ihama, Country Home Hotel Roads, and other locations, because that shows that you are ready to work. We thank you and want to let you know that there is more work to be done.

“We are ready to provide the necessary support needed for you to succeed in this fight against drug abuse in the State.”

Obaseki continued: “I can show you the hotspots around Benin City. We have over 15 hotspots which we are monitoring. The drug business is troubling because some officers collude with these drug sellers and users. They come into these hotspots to request for settlement and allow the illicit business to continue. In doing this, lives are being destroyed.

“A breach of intelligence report may have been responsible for the death of some of your men in Edo North during one of your operations to raid drug spots.”

He added, “You have a lot to do as we will collaborate with you and other sister security agencies to win the war against this drug issue. Nobody can do it alone. Synergy will help us succeed and win against all odds.”

Earlier, the new Commander of NDLEA, Alumona said about 12 drug abusers have been apprehended and are currently being rehabilitated.

He noted, “We have been to Ihama and Country Home Hotel Roads and other hotspots for sale of illicit drugs in the State. What we saw was not pleasing at all. Drugs are being hawked like pure water in these areas. This experience has led us to begin to raid some of these places identified. We have raided Ihama about three times to get these people.

“We will address the issue of drugs seriously as we have destroyed dry season farming of cannabis and sativa. Our efforts have led to the destruction of about 14,000 tonnes of cannabis sativa. We have mopped up from the streets and about 153,000kg of cannabis and other assorted drugs and this is just the beginning.”

*PHOTO CAPTION*

L-R: National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Deputy Commander, Operations/Training, Edo State Command, Nkemdeme Geraldine; representative of Edo State Governor and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Osaigbovo Iyoha, and Commander NDLEA, Edo State Command, Callys Alumona, during a courtesy visit at the Government House, Benin City, Thursday, March 21, 2024.

Poor Planning Bane of Nigeria’s Socioeconomic Problems, Says Obaseki

…rallies stakeholders in Afuze, Auchi on Regional Devt, Benin City Masterplans

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has attributed the many socioeconomic challenges bewildering the nation to poor planning.

Obaseki spoke during an engagement with stakeholders in Afuze, Owan West Local Governments Area and Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, respectively on the State’s Regional Development Plan and the Benin City Master Plan.

The engagement session rallied together various stakeholders in the LGAs to deliberate, share insights, and seek their input in the development of the 30-year development plans.

Present at the stakeholders meeting were the Local Government Council Chairmen of Owan West, Akoko-Edo, Etsako Central and Etasko West, as well as members of the State’s chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), traders, women unions, civic society groups, youths, traditional and religious leaders, among others.

Obaseki said, “The problem we face as a nation is that of improper planning. We didn’t plan properly and today; we are facing various degrees of challenges hindering our progress. Even when we plan, we fail to implement our plans. We should stop complaining about our situation but plan a way out of it.”

He added, “The master plan is for all Edo people and it doesn't have political affiliations but is aimed to chart a course for the betterment of the entire Edo people. The people must collaborate with the government as we can't do it alone. The plan will help and enable us to create a peaceful and friendly environment for investors to come into the State to invest.”

Obaseki continued: “If Nigeria is going to survive, we must restructure the security apparatus in this Country. We have started this here in Edo. We have trained our vigilante security network to collaborate with other sister agencies to fight insecurity in the State. We must have State police and local police that are independent in fighting crime and criminality in the country.

“The time to save ourselves is now as we are already planning for community policing. It will happen. We should secure ourselves not waiting for the Federal Government to secure us.”

In his response, High Chief David George from Ora Kingdom commended the governor for his developmental strides in the State and for his vision for the 30-year development plan which he said will transform the State and set it on growth and development.

A traditional ruler from Uzairue, Momodu Abdulraman, who reiterated the need to prioritize security in the master plans, commended the governor for his visionary leadership.

Obaseki: Local manufacturing, exports best bet to tackle forex crisis

... oil palm revolution has positioned Edo to lead Nigeria’s exports

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the Federal Government can tackle the current foreign exchange crisis by advancing fiscal policies to encourage manufacturers to boost local production and access necessary credit to boost exports of Nigeria made products.

Obaseki said this when he received the National President of the Manufacturers’ Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye with other executives, who were on a courtesy visit at the Government House, Benin City.

The governor, who said the survival of the nation’s economy depended on the manufacturers’ association, noted that Edo State is leveraging its unique advantage with the availability of raw materials for production and manufacturing to drive economic development.

He noted, “Nigeria in the last 40 years has continued to rely on imported goods and services that they don’t produce. We have gotten to a point where we must consume what we manufacture in this nation because we don't have foreign exchange. We don't export any manufactured goods as a nation and MAN has a role to help by redirecting the country towards manufacturing.”

Obaseki further stated, “We have to create the enabling environment for the association to thrive and move away from the notion that it’s not our responsibility to create wealthy people, and government should not be in competition with the private sector, or people providing services for us as it affects the policy thinking of government where the government sees these people as criminals but those who pad budget as nationalist.”

On efforts to boost production activities in the State, Obaseki said, “We have come out with strong environmental policies to re-grow the forest and wood industry, ensuring that forest guards are re-introduced to police the forest and stop illegal logging, and have created encouraging policies for people who want to go into timber plantation.”

Noting that Edo State has the largest oil palm development programme in Africa, the governor noted that, “The State through the ESOPP Programme gave seven investors 70,000 hectares of land to grow oil palm.”

According to him, “In Edo State, we long saw this coming, and we took bold steps and one of the fundamental steps taken is re-structuring our educational system, particularly the foundational education, ensuring we produce a generation of citizens that are well taught. We see ourselves in the next few decades producing the best quality manpower in Nigeria.”

Earlier, the National President of the Manufacturing Association of Nigeria commended the governor’s strides in Edo’s economy, making the State a leading destination for private sector Investments.

“With the Midwest as a hub for industrial activities, it’s imperative for collaboration with the government to revive the manufacturing Industry in Edo State through policies and programmes to fast-track industrial growth. We are glad about the progress in driving the influx of investments in Edo through the annual Alaghodaro which has birthed the Duport Refinery, Green Hill Ethanol Plant, Ossiomo Power, and Edo Production hub, among others where the private sector partners with the government in manufacturing.”

PHOTO CAPTION

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), with the National President of the Manufacturers’ Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye, during a courtesy visit, at the Government House, Benin City, on Monday, March 18, 2024.

Obaseki approves payment of gratuity to LGA pensioners retired in 2009

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has approved the payment of gratuity to pensioners who retired from the local governments in the State in 2009.

In a statement, the Acting Secretary, Local Government Staff Pension Board, Mrs. Arewa Mary Omo, said the affected pensioners are to physically present themselves for screening exercise for the payment of their gratuity.

She noted, “This is to inform Pensioners on the payroll of the Local Government Staff Pension Board who retired in 2009 that His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has approved the payment of their gratuity.”

According to her, “The affected pensioners are to physically present themselves for screening exercise scheduled for: Date: Monday 25th Friday, 29th March, 2024; Venue: Local Government Staff Pension Board, Pension House, King Square, Benin City between 8 a.m.—4 p.m. daily.”

Arewa noted, “The Pensioners should also come along with the following documents: Letter of Retirement; Pensioners Identity Card; Pensioners Biometric Slip, and Pay Advice.

Int’l Women’s Day: Obaseki hails Nigerian women’s resilience, courage in tough times

…urges increased investment, global action to bridge gender gap, accelerate progress in advancing equality

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has hailed Nigerian women for their resilience and courage in the wake of the dire conditions that they have had to operate occasioned by the rising inflation and other economic challenges.

The governor, in a statement to mark International Women’s Day (IWD), noted that the inflationary trend has heavily impacted families, which are struggling to survive amid the high cost of living and other economic headwinds.

The 2024 International Women’s Day (IWD) marked by the United Nations (UN) and other development organisations across the globe has the theme, 'Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.'

Obaseki who celebrated women for their impact and immense contributions to the growth and development of the society, called for increased global action, including strengthening collaboration among stakeholders and improving investment towards efforts at bridging the gender gap and accelerating the progress on gender equality.

According to him, “As we celebrate International Women’s Day, I am moved to praise the resilience and courage of Nigerian women who are forced to make tough decisions every day over the rising cost of living. This has impacted them when they go to work and even on the home front. It takes fortitude to keep things running smoothly.

“As commissioners, permanent secretaries or heads of agencies, market women or business owners in Edo State, women have proven to be expert managers of resources. They have been resilient and courageous in the discharge of their duties and we celebrate these great traits on this day.”

“However, beyond this, I must acknowledge women for their contributions to societal advancement, from changing the narrative in the world of business to their complementary role in the home.

“It is worth noting that the family unit remains one of the strongest forces of socialization. While we witness severe attacks on this essential unit that holds our core values and virtues, women have stood as vanguards of hope and positive change.”

The governor also noted that efforts have been taken to support women-led enterprises in the State, stating that women play key roles in business and politics and must be supported because of their unrelenting commitment to making society better.

“For us, we believe women must be supported. This is why we have made necessary investments to support their businesses. We are redesigning and rebuilding markets and giving more women roles in government because we believe in their innate ability to do good and care for others,” he added.

Obaseki inspects ongoing devt of Edo Radisson Hotel, says project to be completed in November

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the 170-room Edo Radisson Hotel will be completed before the end of his administration in November 2024.

Obaseki gave the assurance during a meeting with a team and officials from Radisson Hotel, Dubai after which he led the team on a tour of the facilities to inspect and ascertain the progress of work done in the last three months.

The governor said, “A great amount of work has been done in the last three months, as the facial aspect of the hotel is being cleaned up and a lot of work is going on in all the floors. I am quite satisfied with the progress of work as we are making very fast progress. We are optimistic that the project will be completed in due time.

“We are here today to inspect and make sure it fits the Radisson Hotel standard. We have a team from Radisson Dubai to look at the project. Before the team lends their name to any project, they make sure it meets certain minimum international standards. From the brief meeting we had with them, they are satisfied that we are on track.

“This project will be completed before I leave office in November 2024,” the governor reassured.

Other government officials at the inspection include the Secretary to Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq.; Special Adviser to the Governor on Media Project, Crusoe Osagie, and Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, amongst others.

The hotel, which is the Radisson Group’s 12th hotel in Nigeria, officially marks its debut in Benin City.

The hotel’s array of Scandinavian-inspired accommodations will range from contemporary standard rooms to expansive executive suites, including a presidential suite.

Creating a social hub for delectable cuisine, the hotel’s gastronomic offering will include a lobby bar and café, an all-day dining restaurant as well as a pool bar and grill. To provide a harmonious stay, guests can also unwind in the hotel’s gym and spa.

The Radisson Hotel Benin City is situated in the prime Government Reserved Area (GRA). Conveniently accessible via the airport and Benin-Sapele roads, the two main arteries of the city, the hotel is just five minutes-drive from the Benin Airport and on the doorstep of the Benin Golf Course and the city’s commercial center.

It is also within close proximity to various security offices, such as the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Police Force, providing an additional security presence in the vicinity of the hotel.

The hotel’s meetings and events spaces will consist of a-507sqm sub-divisible ballroom, three meeting rooms and a pre-function area for a wide range of tailored events.

*PHOTO CAPTION*

L-R: Consultant, COSTEC, Agele Alufohai; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, and Secretary to the Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., during the 170-room Edo Radisson Hotel, in Benin City, on Tuesday, March 5, 2024.

Obaseki boosts emergency response with launch of Edo EMS

trains 200 community-based first responders

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has boosted emergency response with the launch of the first phase of the emergency medical services in the State.

The emergency medical service provides toll free numbers of 112 and 739 linked to the Solomon Arase Command and Control Centre in the State to enable residents to get medical services within a space of ten minutes.

The Edo EMS emergency medical services number for prompt response to emergency health issues covers Oredo, Egor, and other selected parts of the State for the first or pilot phase of the programme. 200 Community-Based First Responders (CBFR) are to be trained in the next one week to flag off the programme.

Speaking to the 200 CBFR, at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA), Governor Godwin Obaseki said the Edo EMS emergency medical services number is one of the most innovative services that has been launched in Nigeria's healthcare system.

According to him, “The Edo Emergency Medical Services is an integrated system, as you can't do one without the other. You must have a network of responders, carefully selected people across the network, give them required training and support, have communication devices, and a functional command and control Center where calls come in as each step is monitored, and a system that pays for these services on a sustainable basis. In Nigeria, we have not been able to sustain our emergency response.

"We have been able to crack it in Edo State and I am here to be trained as an emergency responder. We must care for our people and care for each other. We have partners ready to collaborate with us as they are truly committed to providing emergency services for our people.”

He further noted, "This service is possible because of the diligent steps taken in the last six years as a government to think through how to provide services for our people and citizens, particularly in the healthcare sector. We realized early that healthcare is not equal to hospitals but a system that provides for the well-being of the people.

"Early in my administration, we decided on the health improvement plan for Edo State and thanks to the CMD of UBTH who was with us in the beginning when we conceptualized what you are seeing today.

"We must decentralize health care, and make sure the primary health care system works as that system has recruited most of the responders we see here today. Healthcare is all about having committed and dedicated people that will man the healthcare system and make it work.”

Speaking on the State’s Health Insurance Scheme and efforts to make healthcare affordable for Edo residents, Obaseki said: “Our own health insurance scheme is one of the best run in Nigeria as we have over 200,000 enrollees in the short term we have established it. The enrollees have been paying their premium diligently and we are proud of their services.”

He charged the responders, “You are the most critical factor as you are being trained as emergency responders. I want to thank you for volunteering yourself to receive the training and skills required to provide the support. I want to assure you that we have thought it through very carefully as yours is a network to be encouraged and supported because you are a critical factor in saving lives in Edo State.”

Representative of Partner Emergency Response Africa, Folake Owodunni who made a presentation on Project Overview of Edo EMS said emergency care is the right of every citizen and should be accessed by everyone in the State.

She noted, “We have selected 200 responders who will be trained as we have developed a robust training curriculum. We have revitalized and prepared four ambulances for the pilot phase for Oredo, Egor and selected parts of the State.”

*PHOTO CAPTION*

L-R: Edo State Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Kingsley Uwagbale; Project Director, ERA, Folake Owodunni; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Project Manager, ERA, Kate Ibeanusi, and Health Commissioner, Dr. Samuel Alli, during the launching of the first phase of the emergency medical services in Edo State, on Tuesday, March 5, 2024.

*Obaseki assures sustained collaboration, pledges to promote independence of judiciary*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said his government will continue to prioritise reforms to guarantee the independence of the State’s Judiciary, assuring better collaboration with the Judiciary and other stakeholders to sustain the peace, security and stability witnessed in the State.

Obaseki gave the assurance when he received members of the body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) led by Ighodalo Imadengbelo who paid him a courtesy visit in his office, at the Government House, Benin City, the Edo State capital.

He said his government will continue to support the Judiciary, ensuring a safe and enabling environment for the judicial arm of government to effectively carry out its duties and responsibilities.

Obaseki said, “I want to leave a stronger Judiciary than I met. We believe in the independence of the Judiciary and that’s why I have signed into law the autonomy bill of the Judiciary and the legislative arm of government.

“We need these institutions to be strong and independent because they serve as a check to each other and serve to strengthen the basis of our democracy.

“The Judiciary is the bastion of our democracy as it's the Judiciary we run to when politicians don’t agree. The Judiciary is very important and the basis for our existence because without law and order there will be anarchy.”

He further noted, “Investing in the judiciary is very important and a priority as we have invested in physical infrastructure like building official accommodations for Judges across the State and have earmarked more developments for the system; we are revamping the Magistracy and will soon start commissioning Magistrate Courts across the State.

“We have worked to improve the efficiency of the Judiciary through training in excess of 100 court reporters over the last few years, deploying technology and connecting our Courts across the State with fibers and high speed internet connectivity. We will make all the investments needed to make our Judiciary number one in Nigeria.”

Obaseki added, “We are glad that you appreciate what we have done till date but what is more important is the improvement of physical infrastructure you see and in our view, is not as important as ensuring a total reform in the process of reforming the Judiciary itself.”

Earlier, members of the body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN), led by Ighodalo Imadegbelo commended the governor for his developmental strides in the Judiciary.

Speaking on their behalf, Imadegbelo said, “We have watched you for the past seven years as governor of Edo State and we have seen what you have done in the State, especially for the Judiciary as the High Court Complex is a testament of your infrastructural development in the State.

“As a critical stakeholder and the body of SANs, we always know what is happening in Nigeria. So, we acknowledge your performance in the State. We say you have done well and encourage you to keep it up.

*PHOTO CAPTION*

L-R: Edo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi; Ighodalo Imadengbelo; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, and Olayiwola Afolabi, during a courtesy visit by members of the body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) led by Imadengbelo, at the Government House in Benin City, recently.

Interest Rate: Obaseki blasts CBN, warns of tougher times ahead

Nigeria must focus on production, discourage dollarization of nation’s economy’

Edo among leading States in GDP growth’

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has predicted tougher economic times for the country due to bad economic policies by the Federal Government, condemning the decision of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to increase the interest rate to 22.75 percent.

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the CBN had last week raised the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), also known as the benchmark interest rate by four hundred basis points to 22.75 percent from 18.75 percent.

Obaseki, who spoke at the annual Edo Zone Bankers' Committee Dinner held in Benin City, the Edo State capital, cited the potential adverse effect of the interest rate increase by the CBN on businesses and the nation’s economy, reiterating the need to focus on productive activities.

The governor said, “The next few months will be difficult because the policies rolled out by CBN will unfortunately not support growth in our economy. The interest rate is already high and jacking it up will not allow small businesses access to credit to make them grow.

“We must focus on the fundamentals which is increasing production, making sure our citizens produce what we consume and depend less on imports. Our economic and monetary policies should not be determined by exchange rate alone.

“The issue of increasing the cash reserves in a bid to tighten liquidity is going to be detrimental to our economy. We should focus on fiscal issues to enable us to grow our economy, not panic about the interest rate. Creating jobs should be a priority for us as a nation.”

Commending the role of commercial banks in societal development, Obaseki tasked the banks to come up with products and services which can assist the majority of citizens in overcoming the harsh economic realities experienced nationwide.

He however reassured that his government will continue to partner with the financial sector to cushion the effects of the present economic realities on the people of the State.

Noting that his government has over the last seven and half years undertaken several policies and programmes to reposition the State as a leading subnational in terms of GDP growth, the governor reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the welfare of the people.

He said, “We have built institutions, empowered our people with skills, and ensured they are gainfully employed and seven years after, we are ranked as one of the top States in terms of GDP growth in Nigeria.

“I am here to thank you for collaborating with us to grow the economy of Edo State in the last seven years. You have supported me to make progress this far. I thank each bank and management for taking advantage of the opportunities created in the last seven years, especially with our reforms and growth.

“In the last seven years, we have improved our security, ensuring our people walk freely as the ability to restore security gives confidence to our people who come back home to invest in our State.”

The governor further stated, “Before now, our young ones traveled at will to seek greener pastures but our administration in 2017 got the report about how desperate our youths are traveling out but we have changed the narrative.

“As I wind down as governor, I am leaving a strong State economically; agricultural production has been ramped up significantly. We are leaving a State that is the most digitally connected in Nigeria today as we have laid over 2,000km of fiber optic connection across the state and we have connected the 18 LGA and all your branches are well connected.”

“We are leaving a State that is leading in terms of electricity generation. We have Azura, contributing to the stability of the national grid. We also have Ossiomo Power. Investors are ready to support our initiative in the State. We have the Edo State Electricity Regulatory Law that will allow us to regulate those who want to generate and distribute electricity in Edo State.”

“We have laid the basis for economic growth and development in Edo State and Nigeria. We saw this difficult time coming but could not move and make the necessary decision that would have saved us, but those who ought to act to save us failed to do that, hence here we are today,” Obaseki added.

*PHOTO CAPTION*

*DSC_01*

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (left), with the Branch Controller, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Benin Branch, during the annual Edo Zone Bankers’ Committee Dinner in Benin City, at the weekend.

*DSC_02*

L-R: Mrs. Esther Mgbeze; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, and Branch Controller, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Benin Branch, during the annual Edo Zone Bankers’ Committee Dinner in Benin City, at the weekend.

Edo 2024: Ighodalo presents his certificate of return to Obaseki

The Chairman of Sterling Bank and governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September 21, 2024 Edo gubernatorial election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, has presented his Certificate of Return to the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

The candidate presented the certificate to Governor Obaseki at the Edo House, in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

Ighodalo had won the Edo PDP primary election last Thursday after defeating nine other aspirants who had contested in the election held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo State.

Upon presenting the certificate to Obaseki, Ighodalo reiterated his commitment to repositioning Edo State as a leading sub-sovereign in Africa, if elected as governor.

He noted that he was confident of victory in the polls having canvassed for support among critical stakeholders in the party, including youths, women, the elderly and leaders of the party, who have expressed their support for him with the outcome of the election.

Noting that he was willing to work with other aspirants who are prepared to work for the victory of the party at the polls, he said he was reaching out to all to ensure that the party presents a united front in the run up to the election in September.

The governor congratulated him on his emergence and assured that the party was going to rally support among the people to ensure that it retains its seat in the Government House in Edo State.

*PHOTO CAPTION*

*DSC_01*

Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the Edo State September 21, 2024 governorship election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo (left) presenting his certificate of return to Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, at the Edo House, Abuja, Tuesday, February 27, 2024

*DSC_02*

L-R: Former Senator representing Edo Central, Senator Clifford Ordia; former Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Senator Francis Alimikhena; Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the Edo State September 21, 2024 governorship election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, and Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, during Ighodalo’s presentation of his certificate of return to Governor Obaseki, at the Edo House, Abuja, Tuesday, February 27, 2024

NLC Protest: Obaseki empathises with Edo people, Nigerians over high cost of living

assures sustained measures to ease suffering, hardship

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has empathised with people of the State and Nigerians over the incessant rise in prices of goods and services and overall cost of living in the Country, which has inflicted pain and suffering on the people, reassuring that his government will continue to provide measures to ease the hardship faced by the people of the State.

Obaseki spoke when he received members of the Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other concerned Nigerians who were on a peaceful protest, at the Government House, Benin City, the Edo State capital, to register their displeasure over the high cost of living occasioned by the fuel subsidy removal by the Federal Government.

Obaseki who was represented by the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Hon. Chris Nehikhare, in company of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie, said the government stands with the people in this very challenging times.

He said, “The Edo State Government supports the protest. We identify with you because this hike in price has affected everyone. We are doing our best to see how this hardship is reduced or limited for Edo people.

“The important thing is to ensure that we are able to feed Edo people. We will do our best in terms of feeding but we don’t have power over fuel. We are doing our best to ensure all the filling stations in Edo State sell fuel at the agreed prices.

“We are concerned about the hardship facing Edo people that was why few days ago, the Edo State Government had a meeting with market women, farmers, traders, civil society groups and a host of others in the food chain at Urokpota Hall in Benin City.”

Noting ongoing efforts to address the rise in price of food, the governor stated, “The Edo State Government has put many things in place to change the narrative and help reduce the cost of food.

“Our government feels the pain of the Edo people. We want Edo to thrive and are not happy as a government that we have to protest to register our displeasure over the high rise of food prices.

“We appeal to Edo people and will make sure that the government has put in groundwork for the people and reduces the hardship.

“The farming season is just beginning. We are assisting with the preparations of land, farming inputs, and equipment and are ready for a bumper harvest. We are making sure that roads are good and reduce the cost of transportation. We are also assisting in bringing the food to the City.

“The message of this protest will be carried to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We want to also let Edo people know that the Edo State Government identifies with Edo people because of the rise in cost of living and will do all necessary to ensure Edo people don't suffer from this hardship."

Earlier, the Chairman of NLC, Edo State Chapter, Comrade Odion Olaiye said, “Members of NLC are here to register their protest on behalf of the Congress to Mr. Governor for onward transmission to Mr. President. We can’t bear hunger anymore. Food items are very high now and people are finding it difficult to eat. Things are hard for Nigerians as we call on the president to intervene.”

*PHOTO CAPTION*

L-R: Representative of Civil Society Groups, Kola Edokpayi; Special Adviser to Edo State Governor on Media Projects, Mr. Crusoe Osagie; Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Edo State Chapter Comr. Odion Olaiye; representative of Edo State Governor and Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Hon. Chris Nehikhare, during a peaceful protest to Government House, Benin City, Tuesday, February 27, 2024.

How Edo’s Transparent, Open Public Procurement System is Saving Cost, Driving Devt, Says Obaseki

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the transparent, open and technology-based public procurement system being operated in the State has helped the government significantly save monies which is deployed to pursue more developmental projects across the State, ensuring improved livelihoods for the people.

Obaseki said this when he received members of the Public Procurement and Concession Commission (PPCC) of Liberia led by the Executive Director, Bodger Scott Johnson, who were on a courtesy visit at the Government House, Benin City.

The team is on an exchange programme visit to Edo to understudy the State’s e-procurement system which has continued to earn global acclaim.

The governor said, “Procurement is at the core of our development. If we fail to procure properly and spend much more than we should on the procurement of goods and services, our development process will be stunted. It's important to us as a people who do not have financial resources to put in place systems and processes to get the most value for the money we are spending on behalf of our people. This is the core of our strategy and motivation to procure properly.

“We started our process over 15 years ago when we obtained our first budget facilities and had to revamp our procurement system as a State. It has been a case of gradual growth ever since.

“We have learnt some lessons along the way and will be able to share some of the lessons with you so that you will be able to avoid such pitfalls or challenges that we have to deal with.”

He continued: “We want to let you know that, politically, it’s difficult but for the technical people on ground, you will want to do things right. There will be political pressure which is one of the biggest challenges you will have to face but if you have the political support, then you are likely to be able to hold your ground.

“Technology will help you progress on e-procurement systems as it makes it easier in our view and better to have a properly structured and designed procurement process that is transparent to you and everybody else.”

Obaseki added, “Procurement helps build trust as we don't take procurement for granted in Edo State.”

Earlier, Bodger Scott Johnson said, “We have come to learn how the e-procurement processes work as we are planning to launch our e-procurement system. We are learning from the Edo State e-procurement team and taking great knowledge back home to impact our own e-procurement process.

“We commend the friendship between Liberia and Nigeria as your Country played a very vital role in restoring peace in Liberia. We are grateful to Nigeria as our big brother and giant of Africa. We are happy because we are in safe hands in Nigeria.”

He noted, “We are here to take back the knowledge learnt here and make our procurement better and less of human contact, making it transparent to ensure credibility.”

Ighodalo congratulates APC, Labour Candidates, calls for Issue-based campaigns

..says he is in the race to bring prosperity to Edolites, transform Edo from a third world economy to a first world sub-national

The People's Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship candidate in the forthcoming Edo State Governorship election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, congratulated the governorship candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Labour Party (LP) Senator Monday Okpebholo and Barr. Olumide Akpata on their emergence as flag bearers for their respective Parties; urging them to join him in a commitment to focus on issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2023 Governorship election.

Dr. Ighodalo restated his firm belief that Edo’s strength was the unity of her people; and he appealed to all candidates to refrain from campaigning with messages that promote division and disunity. “The February 2023 general elections saw a level of hate and vitriol masked as political sloganeering that took this nation to the brink; and the fires politicians lit back then continued to smoulder across the nation.

“I and my team will continue to campaign to the people of Edo State in language and behaviour that seeks to unite rather than divide. We will stay focused on the issues that matter to our people; and there will be no descent into abuse, ethnic-baiting and name-calling. We must not destroy the unity of the State we seek to govern. I therefore urge all my fellow candidates to similarly run respectful issue-based campaigns.” he said.

Dr. Asue Ighodalo, who expressed concern over the level of economic hardship people were going through, stated that he and his team of young professionals and politicians have identified a pathway to the lifting of millions of citizens into prosperity.

“We intend to open up the state by reducing insecurity, and by securing the financing and attracting the private sector investors needed to build our intrastate roads; I, working with my team, will grow the economy of the state, create jobs, and provide a better life for our people.”

Dr. Ighodalo emerged as the winner of the PDP Governorship primaries conducted at the lawn tennis court inside the Ogbe Stadium sports complex, on Thursday the 22nd of February, 2024.

Obaseki takes steps to tackle price hike in Edo, meets market, trade unions, other Stakeholders

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, is taking steps to combat the current hike in food prices in the State, urging for the collaboration and support of all stakeholders to proffer lasting solutions to the incessant price surge and guarantee better welfare for the people of the State.

Obaseki met with relevant stakeholders including market associations, traders, and farmers’ unions, among others, at the Urhokpota Hall, in Benin City, to chart actionable measures to address the rising cost of living, particularly food prices in the State.

He said, “I called this meeting because of the cost of living in Nigeria as things are hard, especially the prices of food. The people can't eat anymore and as an administration, we can't just keep quiet but to act.”

Obaseki continued: “We have called this meeting to see how to solve this problem as trading blames will not lead to any solution to the serious challenges we are facing. All problems have solutions, and we are here to discuss and see how to solve this high price hike challenges facing us.

“You said trade unions are people fixing prices, but I don’t know how they work to achieve that in the market. I want to know how they fix prices. I thought it was demand and supply that controlled the prices.

“If we say unions are the problem then we must look at the unions and their activities and how to control them. We must set up a committee to check and look at the activities that lead to price hike. The committee will help us know if they are doing anything against the law.”

Obaseki noted, “This meeting shows that bad road has a role to play in price increment in our markets. I have been begging the Federal Government to help repair and fix the Ekpoma/Auchi Road since when Babatunde Fashola was Minister for Works but no results till now. I appeal to them to ensure contractors complete the road which has been on for over 30 years. I have approached Dangote and BUA to support us in doing the bad portion of the road because their trucks ply that route.”

Speaking on the measures put in place to address the hike in food prices, the Governor stated that his administration will support farmers to expedite efforts towards increased local production of food crops in the State.

The governor also promised to ensure adequate security for farmers to enable them to continue with their farming activities, while also reassuring the farmers that the government will fix their tractors and send them to their various local government councils to help them prepare for the 2024 farming seasons.

Earlier, Solomon Idiogbe, representative of the Edo Civil Society Organization appealed to the governor to help check the activities of Unions across various markets in the State as they significantly contribute to the rising cost of goods and services in Edo.

Also, Edo State Market Women Association leader, Madam Blackky Ogiamien, commended the Governor for his administration’s commitment to the welfare of Edo citizens, particularly in the area of security.

Also in attendance were: Secretary to Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq.; Commissioner for Business, Trade and Cooperatives, Hon. Patrick Uanseru; Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Stephen Idehenre; Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Hon. Kingsley Uwagbale; Managing Director, Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO), Mr. Kelvin Uwaibi; Oredo Local Government Council Chairman, Dr. Tom Obaseki; Ovia South West Local Government Council Chairman, Engr. Edosa Enowoghomwenma; amongst others.

Other critical stakeholders in the food and services value chain present at the meeting include the Tomatoes Sellers Association, the Benin Chamber of Commerce, Hotel owners, Barbing Saloon Association, Building Materials Association, Market Women, Food Stuff and Cattle Dealers Association, Edo branch of the NURTW, Arewa traders and marketers co-operative, amongst others.

PHOTO CAPTION

L-R: Commissioner for Business, Trade and Cooperatives, Hon. Patrick Uanseru; Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Hon. Kingsley Uwagbale; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Secretary to Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., and Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Stephen Idehenre, during a meeting with stakeholders on food prices, in Benin City, recently.

EDO STATE GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION

Dr. Asuerinme Ighodalo
Edo State Gubernatorial Candidate
Peoples Democratic Party

PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATE OF RETURN.

This is to formally inform you; pursuant to the earlier approved and published Timetable of our Great Party, the PDP, and the ratification of your candidacy by the National Working Committee (NWC), that our Ag. National Chairman *H.E. Amb. Umar Iliya Damagum*, shall present to you, Your Certificate of Return as follows:

DATE: Wednesday, 28th February, 2024.

TIME: 12:00 Noon

VENUE: *NEC Hall, Wadata Plaza, National Secretariat, FCT, Abuja.

Please note that you are required to be in attendance to receive this certificate.

Congratulations!

HON. UMAR M. BATURE
National organizing secretary

*Labour Party Elects Anderson As Gov Candidate, Rejects Akpata*

*Times Newspaper*


Daud Olatunji

In a significant turn of events, the Lamidi Apapa-led Labour Party has chosen Uwadiae Asemota Anderson, a seasoned lawyer and Managing Partner of Neplus Ultra, as its gubernatorial candidate for Edo state.


The decision was made during the party primaries held at the Golden Tulip Hotel Etete, GRA Benin City, Edo state.

Anderson secured a resounding affirmation with 188 votes, showcasing strong support within the party.

The primaries were conducted by Chief Electoral Officer, Comrade Roland Daramola, and the Secretary of the electoral committee, Bishop Favour Reuben.

However, a twist occurred as another candidate, Olumide Akpata, emerged from the Julius Abire-led Labour Party, declaring victory with 316 votes in a separate exercise held in Benin City. This conflicting outcome led to a heated dispute within the party.


National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Abayomi Arabambi, expressed dissatisfaction, denouncing Akpata’s candidacy as “ultra vires, non and void,” citing legal judgments from the Federal High Court in Owerri, the Court of Appeal in Owerri, and the Supreme Court in Abuja.

Arabambi questioned Akpata’s legitimacy and alleged ties to the PDP, emphasizing the party’s commitment to upholding court rulings.

The controversy further intensified as PLATFORM TIMES obtained court documents affirming the restraint of Abure, the candidate from the Abire-led faction.

A Federal High Court in Imo state, the Court of Appeal in Owerri, and the Supreme Court all upheld the decision that Alhaji Lamidi Apapa remains the acting chairman of the Labour Party.


Amidst these legal battles, Uwadiae Asemota Anderson stands as the undisputed candidate for the Lamidi Apapa-led faction, emphasizing stability and adherence to legal norms.

Anderson, a graduate of Ambrose Alli University, has an impressive legal background, having handled numerous election petition cases and civil matters.

His experience and track record in navigating legal challenges position him as a formidable candidate for the Labour Party in the upcoming gubernatorial election in Edo state.

As the election season unfolds, the Labour Party braces for a fierce contest, with Anderson leading the charge against other contenders.

The intricacies of party politics and legal battles add an extra layer of complexity to an already dynamic electoral landscape in Edo state.



In a recent development, Bar. Monday Ojore Mawah has been unveiled as the deputy governorship candidate for the Labour Party in the upcoming election in Edo state.

This announcement positions Mawah alongside Anderson as they embark on their political journey, representing the party in the crucial race ahead.

Validly nominated candidates of PDP, APC and LP for the upcoming gubernatorial election in Edo State.

*COMMUNIQUE OF THE MEETING OF STAKEHOLDERS WITH HIS EXCELLENCY, THE EDO STATE GOVERNOR, MR. GODWIN OBASEKI ON CURBING RISING FOOD PRICES IN EDO STATE, HELD AT THE UROKPOTA HALL, BENIN CITY, ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2024*

The Edo State Governor, His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, in response to the rising cost of living, particularly food prices across the country, held a meeting with relevant stakeholders in the State at the Urokpota Hall, Benin City, on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, to find lasting solutions to the food crisis and chart actionable measures to guarantee better livelihoods for the people of the State.

At the forum which had relevant stakeholders, including market associations, traders and farmers’ associations, the Arewa group, among others, Governor Obaseki emphasized the urgency of the situation, reiterating the need for collaborative efforts to address the challenge, in line with his government’s Making Edo Great Again Agenda.

Key decisions and resolutions reached at the meeting include:

-The Ministry of Agriculture and Chairmen of local government councils in the State were mandated to collaborate and make arrangements for land preparation for farmers in the next six weeks before the rains start.

-The governor assured relentless support for only genuine farmers within the State, while urging them to prepare for the planting season

-The Governor directed market associations across the eighteen local government areas to liaise with the Ministry of Agriculture to identify real farmers whom they patronize

-The governor advised cattle rearers to apply for land within Edo State to facilitate the breeding of cattle locally, thereby reducing the expenses associated with transportation from the North. This he said will significantly reduce the cost of meat and other protein in the State

-The government pledged to guarantee adequate security for farmers across the State, and urged the farmers to promptly report any security challenges hindering access to farms in their various communities.

-The government also pledged support for export cluster farmers and their various associations, and ensure adequate funding for their programmes and activities

-The government promised to set up a dedicated office for the export cluster farmers’ associations in the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure prompt response and assistance

-A follow-up meeting was however scheduled for next week with all the manufacturers in Edo State to hear from the manufacturers and explore avenues for collaboration

The elated stakeholders expressed commendation for Governor Obaseki's proactive approach to addressing the food crisis, while acknowledging the severity of the situation and the need for concerted efforts

The stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to working with the government to mitigate the adverse effects of the rising food prices and ensure food security in the State.

*Signed:*
*Chris Osa Nehikhare*
*Hon. Commissioner for Communication and Orientation*

Authentic Result from Edo PDP Gubernatorial Primary election that produced Dr. Asue Ighodalo ahead of September 21 Gubernatorial election.

Edo 2024: Ighodalo emerges PDP candidate with 577 votes, promises to lead Edo on path of prosperity

insists on a united PDP, extends hand of fellowship to other aspirants

hails PDP, Edo people for support, assures inclusivity

Former Chairman of Sterling Bank Plc, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, has emerged as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the September 2024 Edo State Governorship election.

Ighodalo polled 577 of the 585 accredited votes, defeating 10 other aspirants to clinch the party’s ticket at the keenly contested primary which took place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, the Edo State capital.

While the State’s Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu polled one vote, another top contender, Anselm Ojezua scored zero votes.

Meanwhile, the immediate past House of Representatives member, representing Oredo Federal Constituency, Hon. Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama stepped down from the race, while his other counterpart, a former House of Representative member representing Ovia Federal constituency, Omosede Igbinedion also stepped down from the race, declaring her support for Asue Ighodalo.

Other aspirants including Felix Akhabue, Martin Uhomoibhi, Hadizat Umoru, Dr. Earl Onaiwu and Arthur Esene also polled zero votes. The election also recorded six void votes.

Ighodalo was declared winner of the primary election by the Chairman of the Edo PDP Primary Electoral Committee and Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, and the Co-Chairman and Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwhori.

According to Lawal, “By the powers vested in me by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP, pursuant to the Constitution of our great party, the PDP, as the Chief Returning Officer of the 2024 Edo PDP Primary Election, I hereby declare Asue Ighodalo as the winner of the just concluded primary election with a total vote of 577.

“Therefore, I hereby return the elected as the PDP candidate for the forthcoming governorship election in the State.”

Ighodalo, while commending the delegates, leaders and members of the PDP for the confidence reposed in him, promised to, if elected the State’s next helmsman, work with all stakeholders to transform the fortunes of Edo people and lead the State on the path of prosperity and greatness.

He said, “I thank the good people of Edo State. Resilient people; brilliant, hard working, visionary, focused, and willing to move our state into prosperity.

“I am only a tool in this process and I promise you all that I will be a useful tool in this process. Edo State by God’s grace will move from where Governor Godwin Obaseki has carried us to, to the next level.”

He further noted, “I would like to thank Governor Obaseki for the wonderful work he has done in the last seven and a half years. I know that in a year or two people will keep talking about Obaseki. We all haven't seen the value of the work he has done but he is like a builder who is building the foundation for a 100-storey building. I thank him and his wife for supporting him tremendously and giving him the strength to go through the vicissitudes of the last seven years. No man is perfect so we all will repair and work on each other's mistakes.

“I promise all the good people of Edo State; those in Edo State, in Nigeria, and in the Diaspora that I will work tirelessly for our State. I will assemble our best hands to move our State to the next level and I promise you all that I will give you my all.”

Reiterating the need for a united party to win the forthcoming guber elections in the State, Ighodalo said it is only with a formidable and united front that the PDP can excel and succeed in the mission of retaining its seat at Osadebe Avenue and consolidating on the impactful work the party has started in the State.

Earlier, the host Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, while welcoming guests at the primary election, said, “Today, we are going through an exercise that has been stipulated by our party. Even though it's statutory, the exercise will be life-changing because Nigeria is going through difficult times and we can only overcome the challenges we are facing as a Country with the right leadership.

“If we in Edo do not begin to show the right leadership that will begin to reset Nigeria, God forbid, we may all be in trouble. PDP is the only party that has what it takes to rule this Country. Again, we are showing the example in the way we are conducting our leadership selection process.”

He added, “We are following our rules very assiduously; my role as a host governor is to welcome all of you who are here, starting with our members who elected the delegates that are carrying out this exercise today. Thanks to members of the State and National Working Committee of our great party, the PDP for being steadfast in the rules. I also thank all the aspirants for exercising the spirits of sportsmanship.”

PHOTO CAPTION

PDP governorship candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, and his wife, Mrs. Ifeyinwa, delivering his victory speech after the Edo PDP primary election, at the Lawn Tennis Court of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, in Benin City, on Thursday, February 22, 2024.

#Edo2024 #AsueIghodalo

TOMORROW IS THE EDO GOVERNORSHIP PRIMARY ELECTION FOR THE LARGEST PARTY IN AFRICA

Official Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Nigeria

*EDO STATE GOVERNORSHIP*
*ELECTION*

*2024 GUBERNATORIAL PRIMARY ELECTION*

*H.E. RT.HON.SHERRIFF OBOREVWORI*
Co- CHAIRMAN

*EDO GUBERNATORIAL ELECTORAL COMMITTEE*

The National Organizing Secretary (NOS), on behalf of The National Working Committee (NWC) of our great Party , The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP); Pursuant to the Provisions of the Constitution of our Party, wishes to inform you of your nomination as *CO- CHAIRMAN* on the EDO STATE *GUBERNATORIAL PRIMARY ELECTORAL COMMITTEE* to conduct the Governorship primary Election for the purpose of nominating the Candidate of our great Party for the upcoming Election in Edo State.

*The Excercise is scheduled as follows*

*DATE*: *THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22nd , 2024*

*VENUE* : *LAWN TENNIS COURT, SAMUEL OGBEMUDIA STADIUM, BENIN CITY, EDO STATE*

*COMPOSITION*

1. H.E. Dauda Lawal - Chairman

2. ⁠H.E. Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori -
Co-Chairman

3. Sen. Bayero Nafada - Member

4. Mrs. Nella Rabana, SAN - Member

5. Hadiza Maru Mustapha - Member

6. Chief Felix Hassan Hyat⁠t - Member

7. Sen. James Manager- Secretary

Congratulations!

Hon. Umar M. Bature
National Organizing Secretary

February 19, 2024

Press Statement

Edo Election: PDP Approves Delegate List, Sets for Primary, February 22

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has approved the delegate list for the Edo State Governorship Election Primary to nominate a candidate for the September 21, 2024 governorship election in the State.

The NWC has also approved the conduct of the Edo State Governorship Election Primary for Thursday, February 22, 2024 at the Lawn Tennis Court of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.

The NWC charges all delegates, aspirants, leaders, critical stakeholders, members of our Party and the public to note the official date and venue and be guided accordingly.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary

Edo developing a technological workforce to provide innovative solutions to societal problems, says Obaseki

The Edo State Government has said reforms in the State’s civil service, over the past seven years, are aimed at developing a new generation of workers equipped with the necessary technology and expertise to create and provide innovative solutions to societal challenges.

The government said it is developing a technologically savvy workforce and harnessing the power of technology to enhance performance across all sectors of the State.

The Edo State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa spoke during a Design Sprint Showcase event held at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of Human Resources, Mr. George Igberase, the Edo Head of Service reaffirmed the commitment of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration to establishing functional institutions that are capable and well-empowered to address societal needs.

Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and facilitated by the ACIOE Associates in collaboration with the Edo State Government, the Design Sprint exercise empowered over 150 graduates and officers from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) within the State's civil and public service on the use of digital tools and processes to enhance service delivery.

According to Okungbowa, “The administration of His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki from inception set out to revolutionize the traditional way of doing things by focusing on revamping the civil/ public service of the State. One of the cardinal objectives of this goal was to create institutions that work.

“A look down seven years before now shows a period of unprecedented technological growth. The Government did not only embrace technology but adopted technology as a means of carrying out work processes in the service.”

He added, “One of the impacts of this is an improved and technology-driven workforce. Today, we are celebrating the achievements of some of our first officers in the service who now think, breathe, and speak technology. Today the officers will pitch their prototypes to us having gone through rigorous sessions of workshops and field work to identify challenges. They will also propose solutions that can be delivered through technology.”

In his remark, the Commissioner for Digital Economy, Science and Technology, Hon. Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor expressed confidence that the solutions developed during the course of the event would be put to good use, adding that the execution of projects stemming from these solutions would propel both the government and the governed forward.

He noted, “We had this Programme for the last two weeks where civil/public servants in Edo State have been coming together to brainstorm to figure out solutions to some of the problems we have in Government and in our society. They were able to showcase competence and their knowledge in understanding possible solutions.”

Stakeholders from various ministries, departments, agencies, and private partners attended the Design Sprint event. It also garnered participation from top government functionaries, including commissioners, Special Advisers, permanent secretaries, directors, and executive senior staff from different MDAs to discuss potential challenges affecting the State and explore innovative solutions to addressing them.

*PHOTO CAPTION*

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Digital Economy, Science and Technology, Yuwa Naps; Edo State Commissioner for Digital Economy, Science & Technology, Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor, and representative of Edo State Head of Service and Permanent Secretary, Directorate of Human Resources, Mr. George Igberase, during a Design Sprint Showcase event held at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy in Benin City, recently.

Obaseki inspects ongoing Ekehuan Road construction, others

….reassures on completion

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki led other government functionaries to inspect ongoing road construction projects in Ekehuan, Ugbiyoko and environs.

Speaking to journalists after the inspection, Obaseki, reassured on the completion of the construction projects before leaving office, noting that the road is very significant as it leads to Gelegele which is the closest point to the Benin Port.

Obaseki was accompanied by the Commissioner for Road and Bridges, Ethan Uzamere; Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Kingsley Uwagbale and other top government officials.

According to him, “This is a very significant road, and the main road leading to Igbine, Gelegele, and the closest point to the Benin Port Project. Initially, we would need this road to move men and materials during construction to the Benin River Port.

“Subsequently, part of the Benin Port Project is to build a dedicated road to move traffic but between now and when the Port will be completed, this will be the major arteries. When we did our last survey, we had nothing less than 100,000 persons dwelling in this neighborhood as it's a highly populated area and these are our citizens. Hence, there is no reason why they should continue to endure the hardship caused by this road.”

Obaseki reassured, “Like I said, every major project I started, I will complete them before leaving office in November 2024.”

On his part, the contractor of the Ekehuan Road Project, Engr. Ighiere Duke noted that by October 2024, the road project would have been concluded.

He said, “We have started the earthwork and concrete work simultaneously and by the end of March 2024, asphalt work would have started. Our target is that by October 2024, anything about Ekehuan Road will be completed and commuters and residents living on Ekehuan Road will have reasons to smile and thank the governor for the work.”

Also, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Roads and Bridges, Ferguson Enabulele said concrete technology has been deployed in constructing roads in the State since 2016.

He stated, “When Obaseki took office in 2016, concrete technology was one of the technologies he used for road construction. It was used in Navies and Ogieva Streets Projects.

“From 2016 till date, Navies and Ogieva Streets have been intact. When we carried out the design of Ekenwan Road, we discovered that there are associated spot segments that have low line areas. The governor suggested the use of this technology which may last for a minimum of 70 years and we decided to use this technology for low-line areas.”

The Permanent Secretary added, “The technology is good and it may be used in the construction of other roads across the State.”

A resident of the area, Mr. Uche Nwanbuzo thanked the governor for the road construction project, noting that he is satisfied with the level of work.

A bus driver plying the Ekenhuan –Ring Road route, Mrs. Precious Nwango, commended the governor for his developmental strides across the State.

*PHOTO CAPTION*

L-R: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Roads and Bridges, Ferguson Enabulele, and Commissioner for Road and Bridges, Ethan Uzamere, during inspection of ongoing construction on Ekehuan Road, in Benin City, on Friday.

ONGOING CONSTRUCTION OF OLOGBOSERE STREET OF BENIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE ROAD BY Governor Godwin Obaseki ADMINISTRATION

ONGOING CONSTRUCTION OF OLOGBOSERE STREET OF BENIN TECHNICAL COLLEGE ROAD BY Governor Godwin Obaseki ADMINISTRATION