₦airaland Forum

Edo 2024:Police, INEC Plan to provide cover, write fake results, and announce

- *aggrieved parties can go to court*

The police in Benin City yesterday insisted that they must complete their mission to provide cover for some compromised INEC officials to write fake results and announce it even if the process is still in progress.

The police in an emergency meeting yesterday insisted that they must complete their mission even though they suffered a setback yesterday when the military interveined and disrupted some of their plans to provide cover for thugs to cart away with election materials.

In Oredo Local Government area, the second largest in Edo State, with nearly 400,000 registered voters, hoodlums had invaded the INEC office with the intention to compromise the materials for the LGA but were dislodged by the military.

Some of the hoodlums were arrested with firearms and taken away by soldiers.

A similar situation was also reported by the INEC national commissioner in an interview with Channels television to be taking place in Etsako West Local Government Area.

Following this disruption of their plan, the AIG in charge of Election Duty, who is also the AIG Zone 7 in the Federal Capital Territory, AIG Benneth Igweh, held a meeting with men of the police force in Benin City and was unequivocal in his declaration that "we are here on a mission and we must fulfil it."

He went further to ask his men, who did not have the stomach for the mission to indicate by raising up their hands and stepping aside.

During the meeting, they discussed how to provide cover for hoodlums to attack collation centres and replace actual results with fake ones.

He said the ultimate plan is to announce a fictitious election result in favour of the APC even though the process may still be ongoing and tell the other parties to go to court.

According to revelations from the meeting, they plan to carry out this act in connivance with the other security operatives invited by them to take part in the election process.

Edo 2024:Police, INEC Plan to provide cover, write fake results, and announce

- *aggrieved parties can go to court*

The police in Benin City yesterday insisted that they must complete their mission to provide cover for some compromised INEC officials to write fake results and announce it even if the process is still in progress.

The police in an emergency meeting yesterday insisted that they must complete their mission even though they suffered a setback yesterday when the military interveined and disrupted some of their plans to provide cover for thugs to cart away with election materials.

In Oredo Local Government area, the second largest in Edo State, with nearly 400,000 registered voters, hoodlums had invaded the INEC office with the intention to compromise the materials for the LGA but were dislodged by the military.

Some of the hoodlums were arrested with firearms and taken away by soldiers.

A similar situation was also reported by the INEC national commissioner in an interview with Channels television to be taking place in Etsako West Local Government Area.

Following this disruption of their plan, the AIG in charge of Election Duty, who is also the AIG Zone 7 in the Federal Capital Territory, AIG Benneth Igweh, held a meeting with men of the police force in Benin City and was unequivocal in his declaration that "we are here on a mission and we must fulfil it."

He went further to ask his men, who did not have the stomach for the mission to indicate by raising up their hands and stepping aside.

During the meeting, they discussed how to provide cover for hoodlums to attack collation centres and replace actual results with fake ones.

He said the ultimate plan is to announce a fictitious election result in favour of the APC even though the process may still be ongoing and tell the other parties to go to court.

According to revelations from the meeting, they plan to carry out this act in connivance with the other security operatives invited by them to take part in the election process.

*SA Media Projects to Edo State Governor, Crusoe Osage received APC defectors today in Oredo Ward 1*

*_... mobilises support for Asue Ighodalo and Osarodion Ogie

*OKPEBHOLO AND EDO APC LEADERS FURIOUS OVER HUNGER PROTESTS IN EDO STATE*

*.....APC Chairman Tenebe caught lying on Video*

Despite all efforts by APC Governorship candidate, Monday Okpebholo and other APC chieftains to stop the protests from holding in Edo State, the brave and valiant people of Edo State trooped out in large numbers at Ring Road in the heart of Benin City to express their rejection of the hunger, high cost of living, bad governance and maladministration of the APC led Federal Government.

The protesters held placards with inscriptions like "End bad governance" "SAY NO TO FUEL HIKES", "APC RENEWED SHEGE" and gathered peacefully to protest at Ring Road in Benin City.

Meanwhile APC Chairman Jarret Tenebe was caught lying on Video that the protest did not hold all in a shameful bid to justify the money he received from Tinubu to thwart the protests in Benin.

In the days preceding, the APC Candidate and Party Chairman had received N350 Million Naira from Aso Rock sources to dissuade Edo citizens from coming out to legitimately express their grievances about the worsening economic situation in the Country caused by APC.

They fear that APC's failure to ameliorate the sufferings of the people coupled with a 10 day protest against their Bad Governance will completely demarket the Party which is already very unpopular with Edo People going into September 21st Guber Election.

While APC's Buhari punished Nigerians with whips, APC's Tinubu has stepped up the ante, punishing Nigerians with snakes and scorpions. Fuel prices have risen by over 300%, prices of food items have equally tripled. The hunger in the land has given rise to a surge in armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry and other crimes as people are desperate to survive.

It is made even worse by the fact that the predominantly APC ruling class have continued to live in unrestrained luxury while the vast majority of ordinary Nigerians sink deeper and deeper into penury. Senate President Akpabio approved a Presidential Jet for Tinubu which cost N150 Billion while Vice President Shettima got a new official residence for N21 Billion


In Edo, the APC Governorship Candidate Monday Okpebholo is a serving Senator who earns over ₦30 million monthly with over N650 Million Constituency Allowance unaccounted for but he has openly criticised the State govt's decision to increase Edo workers salaries to ₦70,000. He says it's too much and will reduce it when he becomes Governor because Edo State doesn't have money to pay it. This is the level of pervasive wickedness in APC

Before the protest, Okpebholo on Monday released a press Statement urging Edo people to have faith in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and promised that he will implement his agenda in Edo State if he is elected.

It is a shame and insult on the sensibilities of enlightened Edo People that after the damage APC had done to the economy nationally, they had the effrontery to present a mediocre and poorly educated Candidate like Monday Okpebholo who has been unable to articulate a clear agenda for the people of Edo State.

We have all seen the consequences of one year of Tinubu's agenda in Nigeria.

We can be sure that Edo people do not want that for themselves.


Mathew Ehigiator
Benin City

*Edo govt warns against clash with #EndBadGovernance protesters, violence as APC insists on rally from August 1*

The Edo State Government is shocked at the resolve of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to orchestrate crisis and cause mayhem in the State by its decision to kick-start its state-wide rally on August 1, 2024 coinciding with the commencement of the nationwide #EndBadGovernance demonstrations by the citizenry.

While all state governments and the Federal Government are adopting measures to resolve lingering issues to diffuse tension and restore normalcy, the Edo State chapter of the APC has decided on kicking off its state-wide rally across the 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the State.

Their plan is to cause a clash between their members and supporters and the protesters and ultimately engineer a clash and blame the Edo State Security Network for any crisis. This is part of a larger plan to cause chaos in the State.

The State Government frowns at this insensitive decision of the APC and warns the party to desist from taking this ignoble step so as to prevent avoidable chaos in the State.

The government warns that if the APC should go ahead with this ill-timed rally across the State and it eventually leads to disruption of public peace and destruction of property, the state would bring the full weight of the law on the perpetrators and ensure that those involved are brought to justice.

The State is still reeling from the pains of the mayhem orchestrated on Thursday, July 18, by thugs and supporters of the APC, which led to the death of a police officer.

We call on the Police, the Department of State Security (DSS) and other security agencies to be on guard and ensure that these insidious plans are averted so as to maintain public peace and order in the best interest of the good people of Edo State.

We urge citizens to be circumspect as they go about their lawful businesses as the government remains committed to engendering peace and progress in the State.


Chris Osa Nehikhare
Hon. Commissioner for Communication and Orientation
July 31, 2024

*Obaseki mourns passing of Onyeka Onwenu*

I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of one of Nigeria's most versatile music exports, Dr. Onyeka Onwenu.

Onwenu was a gift to her generation. Sonorous, enigmatic, and enchanting. Hers was a gift well deserving as she seneraded all with a rare facility with her voice, soothing the old and the young with melodious, evergreen tunes.

Onwenu performed excellently as a conscious musician, as she laced her music with nuggets for social revival.

She wore many caps elegantly as a soulful singer, fierce journalist, and conscientious social crusader. Her desire for a better Nigeria was evident in the passion she infused in the many avenues she used in agitating for a more prosperous nation.


It is sad that we lost her at a time when we needed role models like her to inspire Nigerian youths, who would have benefited from her experience and insight garnered as an active character in different hues of the Nigerian experience.


We will miss her elegance, candour, and infectious charm.

I commiserate with the Onwenu family, friends, and associates and pray that God will grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.


His Excellency,
Godwin Obaseki
Governor, Edo State.

*#EndBadGovernance Protest: APC plans to engage hoodlums to infiltrate protests, destroy govt property, Edo govt alerts*

*_… Shopping Mall, Secretariat, Ossiomo are targets_*

The Edo State Government has said that it has uncovered a plot by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State to infiltrate the #EndBadGovernance protests in the State to attack and destroy key public infrastructure in Benin City, the State capital.

In a statement, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media Project, Crusoe Osagie, drew the attention of security agencies to the plans by the APC and its chieftains.

According to him, “Edo State Government has uncovered that these plans are being perfected by chieftains of the APC to use the pretext of the protest to vandalise government buildings and cause mayhem in order to advance their obnoxious political pursuit.

“Our findings have shown that the Secretariat Complex, the Benin Shopping Mall, the Edo Production Centre and the Ossiomo Power Company have been penciled down for attacks.

He noted that the APC has planned for the attacks to take the public by surprise, noting that the APC envisages that “the protesters would be blamed for the destruction of property, allowing the APC and their sponsored thugs to go scot free for the carnage they intend to cause.”

He added: “Members of a particular secret cult have been penned down to lead the attacks with a popular APC leader set to mobilise them to these facilities.

“The APC is resorting to this devious plan because they have realized the folly of presenting a candidate that is unsuitable for the office of a governor. The party is embarrassed by the fact that their candidate has become the butt of jokes in private and public spaces because of his lack of comportment, finesse and intellectual maturity to comprehend and engage intelligently as someone running for the office of the governor.

“At various instances, the APC candidate has shown poor grasp of basic concepts and his handlers have decided on shielding him from the public glare, hiding instead behind press releases and spokespersons. They have now resorted to violence and subterfuge as their strategy to forcefully take over the government.”

He noted that the resort to violence is a recipe for anarchy, calling on all security agencies in the State, including the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Brigade Commander, 4 Brigade, Benin, among others, to take notice of the planned attack and do well to forestall the intent to destroy public facilities.

“These facilities are not used by only members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) but include public buildings to improve governance and also comprise investment by well-meaning business owners who seek the progress of our dear State.

“We, therefore, call on the security agencies to not only provide security at these facilities but also set their radar on chieftains of the APC during the protests so as to intercept any attempt to throw the State into chaos during the protest, in the best interest of the good people of Edo State,” he added.







*#EndBadGovernance Protest: Plan by APC to engage hoodlums to destroy govt property and cause mayhem unveiled*

We want to draw the attention of security agencies in Edo State to the plans of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State to infiltrate the #EndBadGovernance protests in the State to attack and destroy key public infrastructure in Benin City, the State capital.

Edo State Government has uncovered that these plans are being perfected by chieftains of the APC to use the pretext of the protest to vandalise government buildings and cause mayhem in other to advance their obnoxious political pursuit.

Our findings have shown that the Secretariat Complex, the Benin Shopping Mall, the Edo Production Centre and the Ossiomo Power Company have been penciled down for attacks.

The plan, we have learned, is that the attacks will take the public by surprise and the protesters would be blamed for the destruction of property, allowing the APC and their sponsored thugs to go scot free for the carnage they intend to cause.

Members of a particular secret cult have been penned down to lead the attacks with a popular APC leader set to mobilise them to these facilities.

The APC is resorting to this devious plan because they have realized the folly of presenting a candidate that is unsuitable for the office of a governor. The party is embarrassed by the fact that their candidate has become the butt of jokes in private and public spaces because of his lack of comportment, finesse and intellectual maturity to comprehend and engage intelligently as someone running for the office of the governor.

At various instances, the APC candidate has shown poor grasp of basic concepts and his handlers have decided on shielding him from the public glare, hiding instead behind press releases and spokespersons. They have now resorted to violence and subterfuge as their strategy to forcefully take over government.

We believe that the resort to violence is a recipe for anarchy and we therefore call on all security agencies in the State, including the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Brigade Commander, 4 Brigade, Benin, among others, to take notice of this planned attack and do well to forestall the intent to destroy public facilities.

These facilities are not used by only members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) but include public buildings to improve governance and also comprise investment by well-meaning business owners who seek the progress of our dear State.

We, therefore, call on the security agencies to not only provide security at these facilities but also set their radar on chieftains of the APC during the protests so as to intercept any attempt to throw the State into chaos during the protest, in the best interest of the good people of Edo State.

*Crusoe Osagie*
_Special Adviser to the Governor on Media Projects_
July 30, 2024

*OSHIOMHOLE AND OKPEBHOLO MOVE TO STOP 'END BAD GOVERNANCE' PROTEST IN EDO STATE*

....*Fear protest will affect APC's chances*

.......*Mobilise Tony Kabaka to foil protests*

APC Godfather, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and his new found godson, Monday Okpebholo are making frantic efforts to stop the looming nationwide "End Bad Governance" Protest from taking place in Edo State

The duo of Oshiomhole and Okpebholo are deeply worried that the protest which is coming just over a month to the September Governorship Elections will damage the reputation of their party and completely destroy the already slim chances of Okpebholo winning the elections.

Following severe hardship which has seen a sustained rise in inflation and a cost of living crisis coupled with high level of unemployment and insecurity, Nigerians nationwide are poised to hit the streets in protest against APC's bad leadership from 1st of August 2024.


APC as a Party has become synonymous with the economic turmoil and unemployment crisis in the Country as all developmental indices point to the fact that the living conditions of the vast majority of Nigerians have worsened under the APC administration.

In fact, the Nation has cemented its place as the poverty capital of the World under the APC government of Buhari and now Tinubu. Inflation has reached an all-time high of 43% while food inflation is as high as 40%. A bag of rice now sells for about N90,000.


For many in Edo State, they don't want to hear the name of the Party, a situation that has been made worse by the Candidate, Monday Okpebholo who has shown no vibrancy or intelligence in his engagement.

Ahead of the planned protests, APC has perfected plans to deploy the use of violence to derail the protest and lead to a breakdown of law and order.

Grapevine sources reveal that APC youth Leader, Tony Kabaka and some other henchmen have been heavily mobilised to ensure that any attempt at protesting in Benin City and environs will end in violence and a total breakdown of law and order.

MR. OSHIOMHOLE, GODFATHERISM POLITICS NO DEY TIRE YOU?

The forthcoming September 2024 Elections in Edo State would be the 5th consecutive election sequence in which Adams Oshiomole would actively be telling Edo people who to vote for.

In 2007, and his reelection in 2012, he campaigned for himself, telling people to vote for him. By 2016, he again mounted the rostrum to campaign for incumbent Governor Obaseki who at the time was running against Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu. Oshiomole unleashed his full verbal arsenal on Ize-Iyamu. He called him a cultist and alleged that he had poured acid on another student during his undergraduate days.

He also labelled Ize-Iyamu a thief and said that was the reason he did not give him any appointment despite him having been the Director-general of his reelection campaign.
By 2020, the tables had turned. Obaseki had quickly outgrown Oshiomole and his overbearing attitude.

Oshiomole found a new ally in his old enemy Ize-Iyamu and Adams Oshiomole hit the campaign train again, this time, asking Edo people to vote for Ize-Iyamu as Governor in a bid to stop the second term bid of Godwin Obaseki.
Needless to say that they were roundly beaten.

It's 2024 and again, Oshiomole at 72 has hit the campaign trail, this time asking Edo people to vote for Monday Okpebholo, a rather lacklustre and mediocre character who doesn't come across as the brightest sort of candidate. A sitting Senator who rarely makes contributions to debates in the Senate, Monday Okpebholo also seems to be very shy of public engagement and perhaps his taciturn nature is a perfect opportunity for the loquacious and garrulous Oshiomole to take centre stage.

In a recent viral video, Oshiomole was seen addressing the audience from the sunroof of an SUV like the Candidate while the actual candidate hung from the side like a bus conductor. The scene made for very poor optics and did not escape the sardonic banter of social media users and commentators..

Only a few days ago, a TV Presenter had to remind Oshiomole that he was not the one on the ballot and that he should tell Okpebholo to come on air in the media and discuss his plans for Edo people.
The apparent desperation leads us to question what it is that Oshiomole really wants.

Having held the stage and danced vigorously as Governor for 8 years, isn't it time to leave the stage for other dancers?

Has he exhausted the scope of his duties as Senator representing Edo North District so perfectly that he is eager to take up the additional job of "Governor-General of Edo State?
What is this obsession with trying to decide who rules Edo State?

One of the biggest achievements Oshiomole likes to take credit for as a Governor is that he killed "Godfatherism" in Edo politics. He has however spent the better part of the last two decades trying to resurrect what he purportedly killed.

Fred Ikhuoria
Ekpoma, Edo State

Edo election: Embattled APC Governorship candidate in fresh age falsification scandal as official forms reveal 4 dates of birth - Sahara Reporters

July 19, 2024

PRESS CONFERENCE BY THE EDO STATE COMMISSIONER FOR COMMUNICATION AND ORIENTATION, CHRIS NEHIKHARE, ON THE RECENT BREACH OF PUBLIC PEACE, LAW AND ORDER WITHIN THE BENIN METROPOLIS

Following the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, which faulted the impeachment of the former deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, the Edo State Government immediately filed a notice of appeal and stay of execution on the judgement, as it is the government’s right. This we have since communicated to the relevant authorities, including the Police, in accordance with the law.

The filing of a stay of execution in response to a court order or judgement means that the status quo is maintained by all parties. Therefore, Philip Shaibu remains impeached as the deputy Governor of Edo State until the Appeal Court decides otherwise. More so, the enforcement of a court judgment is neither carried out by the parties involved nor their hirelings, but by law enforcement agents.

But in a blatant disregard for the stay of execution as well as law and order, Philip Shaibu mobilized thugs armed with sophisticated weapons within and outside the Airport compound in a bid to make a show of his return to Benin following the court judgement, unleashing mayhem on the people and stirring crisis in the State in the guise of executing the Federal High Court judgement.

The State Commissioner of Police, with the intelligence available to him, rushed to the Airport, approached Shaibu, and informed him of the filed stay of execution which he had in his possession, warning the former deputy governor against marching to the Edo State Government House, which was Shaibu’s original plan.

With the disappointment by this development, Shaibu disregarded the advice and warnings from the Commissioner of Police and exited the airport precincts into the waiting crowd of thugs who then moved with him into the City, shooting sporadically and unleashing mayhem on innocent citizens, who were minding their lawful businesses.

This mindless shooting and breakdown of law and order resulted in the wanton destruction of property, infliction of various degrees of injuries on passersby and security operatives and the loss of the life of a Policeman.

The incident is condemnable and unacceptable and the Edo State Government condoles with the Nigerian Police Force and the family of the police officer who tragically lost his life in that incident. It's quite disappointing but not surprising that the Commissioner of Police despite his intervention couldn’t rein in Philip Shaibu and his thugs, leading to this unnecessary loss of life.

We know that the game plan of Shaibu and his ilk was to cause as much destruction, mayhem, and chaos within the Benin metropolis with the aim of creating a sense of unrest and crisis so that they could cry and appeal to the Federal Government as victims, expecting them to, in response, begin the arrest of members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, including myself, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation. Federal Government or Federal might is the only campaign strategy they boastfully articulate whènever they talk of the election. This episode is just one of the scenes in their how to capture Edo script.

The Edo State Government is calling on the Federal Government and the Inspector General of Police to immediately begin investigations to unravel the root cause of this breach of law and order in the State as well as the death of the gallant police officer whose duty it was to protect the APC candidate, Monday Okpebholo, and ensure that the culprits are prosecuted.

The Edo State Government will not sit idly and watch just one person or a group of persons bring down the roof on the entire State on the back of his or their selfish motivations and in gross violation of the laws of the land.

We urge the general public to be rest assured that government will spare no resource in ensuring the protection of lives and property of the people of the State as is required by law.

Chris Osa Nehikhare,
Commissioner for Communication and Orientation,
Edo State.

*Shaibu unleashes terror on Edo residents under the pretext of enforcing court judgement*

The impeached deputy governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, on Thursday, unleashed terror on residents of the State in the guise of purportedly enforcing a Federal High Court judgement reinstating him in office.

The former deputy governor had rallied thugs and other miscreants at the Benin Airport, in a bid to make a show of his return and enforce his reinstatement, following the Court ruling, on Wednesday, by Justice J.K. Omotosho.

Shaibu, who had returned with the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Monday Okpebholo, led the thugs, along with the APC candidate through the Airport Road axis of Benin City, attacking innocent citizens and unleashing mayhem on private citizens who are going about their lawful businesses.

An eyewitness, who spoke to our correspondent, said the thugs who were allegedly accompanying Shaibu from the Airport to return to the Edo State Government House, went berserk shooting sporadically at private residents and destroying properties worth millions.

According to the eyewitness, who spoke on the condition of anonymity: “The scene today was scary and heartbreaking. So much destruction was perpetrated by Philip Shaibu and his boys. The former deputy governor who had just returned from the Airport put the Airport Road within the Benin metropolis on a standstill, leading his thugs through the road, attacking innocent citizens, and unleashing mayhem on private citizens who were going about their lawful businesses.

“I can’t really confirm if lives were lost as people scampered for safety but properties worth millions of naira were destroyed by Shaibu and his thugs. The government must take urgent action to bring the perpetrators of this dastardly to book and secure the safety and security of Edo people.

He added, “The governorship election is getting closer and this is happening. I think the plan of the APC is to create a sense of crisis and chaos in the State so that people don’t come out on election day to vote. It was so scary today and a lot of people are still counting their losses as a result of the wanton destruction.”

July 18, 2024

Press Statement

*Edo govt warns Shaibu over resort to chaos under the guise of Court Judgement*

_… insists Shaibu’ll be made to face the law over destructions_

The Edo State Government has observed the level of wanton destruction perpetrated by thugs and elements working in connivance with former Deputy Governor of the State, Philip Shaibu in the guise of purportedly enforcing a judgement reinstating him in office.

Shaibu led thugs through Airport Road axis of Benin City, attacking innocent citizens and unleashing mayhem on private citizens who are going about their lawful businesses.

The State Government through this statement is warning Shaibu to desist from this turn to violence in the pretense that he is enforcing a judgement. He is reminded that he is not above the law and is liable for the wanton destruction perpetrated by him and his co-travellers.

Shaibu’s violent tendencies is well document and he has been warned at different times by respected figures of society, including the revered Benin Monarch to shun violence.

We want to reiterate that Shaibu will face the consequences of violence that he has resorted to in pursuit of his aim to return to the Edo State Government House even when he is aware that a stay of execution of the judgement has been filed.

We enjoin the general public to be calm and go about their lawful businesses as government will continue to deploy the instrumentality of the state to restore and maintain law and order in the State in the face of undue provocation.

Chris Osa Nehikhare
Hon. Commissioner for Communication and Orientation

*APC thugs armed by Philip Shaibu attempt forceful takeover of Govt House*

July 17, 2024

Press Statement

Edo Guber: PDP Hails Court Judgment Affirming Ighodalo’s Candidacy
…Says It Signposts PDP’s Electoral Victory in September

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) hails the judgement of the Federal High Court, Abuja which today, Wednesday, July 17, 2024 affirmed the nomination of its candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo in the September 21, 2024 Governorship election in Edo State.

The Party describes the landmark judgement which upheld the PDP Edo State Governorship Primary election held on February 22, 2024 at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City as victory for democracy, Rule of Law and a well-founded affirmation of the propriety and credibility of the Primary election and PDP’s internal democracy.

The spontaneous jubilation across Edo State at the news of the judgement reaffirms the PDP’s candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo as the undisputed preference of the majority of the people of Edo State in the coming Governorship election.

The Party notes that the judgement further validates the fact that all the aspirants at the Governorship Primary election were accorded level playing ground in the conduct of the Edo State PDP Congresses and Governorship Primary election that produced Dr. Asue Ighodalo as candidate.

The PDP congratulates Dr. Asue Ighodalo and urges all Party members to remain united and continue to work together with the majority of the people of Edo State to ensure the victory of our Party and candidate in the September 21, 2024 Governorship election.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary

*Omobayo Marvellous Godwins remains Edo State Deputy Governor*

Following the Federal High Court, Abuja judgement that faulted the impeachment of the erstwhile deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, the Edo State Government has filed a stay of execution of the judgement.

Pending the hearing of the appeal of the judgement, the incumbent Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Omobayo Marvellous Godwins remains and continues to serve as the valid deputy Governor of Edo State.

He will continue to serve in this capacity and would be recognized as such.

The government hereby calls on the people of Edo State to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses.

Chris Nehikhare
Commissioner for Communication and Orientation
July 17, 2024

*Shaibu: EDHA appeals judgement upturning impeachment, files for stay of execution*

The Edo State House of Assembly has appealed the judgement by Hon. Justice J. K. Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, which set aside the impeachment of the State’s former deputy governor, Philip Shaibu.

The State Assembly has also filed a stay of execution on the judgement pending appeal.

The Edo State House of Assembly, had on Monday, April 8, 2024, impeached Philip Shaibu following the adoption of the report of the seven-man investigative panel set up by the State Chief Judge to probe allegations of misconduct against the former deputy governor.

The investigative panel set up the EDHA was headed by Justice S.A. Omonua (retd.) and probed Shaibu on allegations of perjury and leaking of government secrets, ending its sittings with the former deputy governor refusing to appear before it.

Shaibu was impeached by the vote of eighteen out of 19 members of the Assembly present at plenary, while one abstained from the headcount and voting process.

Recall that the State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, had upon the impeachment of Shaibu picked Omobayo Marvellous Godwins as his deputy to complete his second tenure in office, which lapses on November 11, 2024.

*Edo 2024: APC descends into sacrilege for lack of vision to sell to Edo people*

The attention of the Edo State Government has been drawn to a fictitious story by the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in which they returned to the expired tactic of dragging the palace of the Oba of Benin into politics with an allegation that there are purported plans to demolish the Benin Royal Museum.

It is regrettable that the APC has found themselves in this sorry situation where they are now hell-bent on sacrificing the hard-won respect, legacy and heritage of the revered place on the altar of political exigencies.

This should not be a matter for political debate as we hold the palace in high regard. Insinuations about a demolition are figments of the imagination of the consultant to the APC, Kassim Afegbua and the campaign team, who are bereft of ideas on how to sell a deadbeat candidate that does not have the faintest grasp of the idea of governance to Edo people.

The intentions of the APC are well-known, which is to sow seeds of discord in the minds of Edo people and charge them on a fruitless chase of a non-existent threat against the palace. If there was ever any threat to the palace, it is the machinations of the APC to denigrate the heritage of the people.

For the records, I will like to state without equivocation that there are no plans to demolish the Benin Royal Museum, which to the best of our knowledge, has not even been built yet. Instead, the government is supporting efforts to develop the museum as part of the development of the Benin Cultural District. This is just as it has extended support for the development of the Museum of West African Arts, Benin in the State.

We enjoin the general public to disregard the rumour and all antics of the APC to drag the palace into politics in pursuit of their failed campaign to market a hardly literate candidate who failed to pass General Certificate Examination (GCE) at a Special Centre even at the age of 36 years.

The APC is encouraged to campaign responsibly and tell the people what their vision for development is as is required of them during campaign periods and not this futile effort at a strawman fallacy.

Signed

*Crusoe Osagie*
_Special Adviser to the Governor on Media Projects_

*Edo emerges first, beats 34 other States to sit top on Nigeria’s fiscal transparency league table*

The Edo State Government has ranked first, beating 34 other Nigerian States and tying with Anambra State in BudgIT’s 2024 Quarter One Fiscal Transparency League Table.

BudgIT said the assessment, which is available on its website, “focused on the availability and comprehensiveness of key fiscal documents, the functionality of state websites and e-procurement portals, and the timeliness of publications.”

It noted that in Q1 2024, the fiscal transparency across Nigerian States varied significantly, impacting their rankings on the States’ Fiscal Transparency League (SFTL) table.

The ranking had Edo and Anambra leading the pack with a 93% score out of 100% Ekiti (92%), Jigawa (92%), and Ebonyi (87%) completing the top five.

At the bottom are Benue (42%), Kebbi (42%), Bayelsa (40%), Borno (32%) and Imo (31%) at the bottom in descending order.

On Edo State’s performance, BudgIT said “Having a tie and sharing similar strengths with Anambra, it needed a better arrangement of documents on their website.”

The key indicators for the ranking are the Medium-Term Expenditure Project (MTEF), Proposed Budget, Approved Budget, Citizens’ Budget, Budget Implementation Reports, Audit Reports, Accountant General’s Report/Financial Statement, e-procurement Portal, and State’s website with fiscal repository.

Each of the indicators is rated for their availability, timeliness, and comprehensiveness in the report.

The Report said the MTEF is an annual three-year-expenditure planning, noting that it sets out the medium-term expenditure priorities and hard budget constraints against which sector plans can be developed and refined.

“MTEF also contains outcome criteria for the purpose of performance monitoring. MTEF together with the annual Budget Framework Paper provides the basis for annual budget planning. The MTEF is expected to be published on the states' website before the end of Q3,” it added.

*Edo govt relieves Commissioner for Health, Alli, of his appointment with immediate effect*

*_… appoints Igbinoba as Special Adviser, Special Projects_*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has approved the disengagement of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Samuel Alli, with immediate effect.

In a statement, the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., also announced the appointment of Dr. Roland Igbinoba as Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Projects.

According to the SSG, “The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has approved the disengagement of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Samuel Alli, with immediate effect.

“He is to hand over all government documents and resources in his possession to the most senior civil servant within the Ministry of Health.

“The government thanks him for his service and wishes him well in his future endeavours."

Ogie added: “The governor is resolute on his finishing strong objective and will remove any obstacles that may hinder optimal service delivery to the people in the remaining four months of his administration.

“The governor has also approved the appointment of Dr. Roland Igbinoba as Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Projects, who will support the government in fast-tracking the conclusion of developmental projects across the State.”

Breaking: INEC confirms Edo PDP guber candidate, Asue Ighodalo’s voter registration status

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that Edo PDP governorship candidate, Asue Ighodalo, is a duly registered voter with a valid Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC).

This confirmation was made by INEC during a court proceeding at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

INEC’s testimony came in response to a suit filed by Anslem Ojezua, another PDP aspirant who lost the party’s primary election, challenging Ighodalo’s nomination as the PDP candidate for the upcoming Edo state gubernatorial election scheduled for September 21.

#PathwayToProsperityForAll
#AsueIghodalo2024
#AsueOgie2024
#EGoDoAm

*Obaseki commiserates with Plateau people, govt over deaths, injuries from collapsed school building*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has commiserated with the people and Government of Plateau State over deaths and injuries resulting from a collapsed school building in the state.

In a statement, the governor said he is saddened by the unfortunate incident and prayed for the repose of the soul of the deceased and quick recovery for the injured.

According to him, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic news of the death of school children in Plateau State after a school building collapsed at Saint Academy, Jos.

“It is disheartening that children died where they had gone to seek knowledge for a better future. It is indeed a devastating news, and I commiserate with families of those who lost their lives. Our prayers are also with those trapped under the rubble as emergency responders battle to rescue them.

“For the injured, we wish them quick recovery. This is a really dark day, and we pray for the repose of the souls of the departed.”

He added: “On behalf of the Government and people of Edo State, I extend heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Plateau State as well as the families of the victims and the injured.”

*B-R-E-A-K-I-N-G: Obaseki Approves 7-Man New Governing Council For AAU*

... With Dr. Omo-Ehijele Odafen as Chairman



The Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has approved the constitution of the Governing Council of the Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma.

In a statement, the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., said the council, which is made up of seven members, is to be chaired by Dr. Omo-Ehijele Frank Odafen.

According to him, “The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has approved the constitution of the Governing Council of the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.

“The council which is made up of seven members is to be chaired by Dr. Omo-Ehijele Frank Odafen.”

Ogie noted, “The members of the council include: Dr. Omo-Ehijele Frank Odafen, Chairman; Mrs. Patience West Erhabor, member; Tony Innih Esq., member; Prof. Anthony Ekata Ogbeibu, member; Prof. Sunday Ojeifo, member; Prof. Kokunre Agbontaen-Eghafona, member and Clifford Imade Omozeghian Esq., member.

“The official inauguration of the Council will be announced shortly.”

*Okpehbolo, Ize-Iyamu bicker over mismanagement of campaign funds*

There is palpable tension in the camp of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State over the mismanagement of funds for the gubernatorial election of the party’s candidate, Senator Monday Okpehbolo, it has been gathered.

A source close to the party’s candidate disclosed that Okpehbolo and a leader of the party in the State, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu came to a near fisticuff, on Monday, over the way and manner Ize-Iyamu has been dispensing funds for the campaign.

https://www.newshunternow.com/posts/okpehbolo-ize-iyamu-bicker-over-mismanagement-of-campaign-funds

The source who pleaded anonymity said Okpehbolo is worried that Ize-Iyamu’s only interest is the funds for the campaign and not the victory of the party in the forthcoming gubernatorial election.

“The way and manner Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu has been dispensing funds for the campaigns has not been quite satisfactory and this has been a cause of major concern for our candidate, Monday Okpehbolo. The duo came to a near fisticuff over the matter. It was a scene that wasn’t so pleasing for us as friends of Okpehbolo and supporters of APC,” the source said.

According to him, “The APC candidate is worried that Pastor Ize-Iyamu’s only interest and concern is the funds for the campaign and not his victory or that of the party in the forthcoming gubernatorial election scheduled for September 21, 2024. This he claims is the reason why Ize-Iyamu has been aggressive in positioning himself for the candidate.

“We all know Ize-Iyamu antecedent in politics. Someone who pocketed monies for his own election. The records are there. How do you think he will handle the funds for another person’s election? That man has no genuine intentions and that is why Okpehbolo is really worried.

“The candidate has been moving to different leaders on the matter. He has also met with Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and other national leaders of the party to call Ize-Iyamu to order over his fixation on campaign funds.”

“I really don’t know how long this will be on but the situation is rather unfortunate and the APC at the national must act immediately before Pastor Ize-Iyamu jeopardizes our party's chances at the forthcoming gubernatorial election for his own selfish interest,” he charged.

July 10, 2024

Press Statement

Edo: PDP NWC Suspends National Vice Chairman (South South) Chief Dan Orbih
…Sets Up Six-Man Investigation Committee

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at its 588th meeting today, Wednesday, July 10, 2024 considered all issues, including complaints on the activities of the National Vice Chairman (South South) Chief Dan Orbih concerning the September 21, 2024 Governorship election in Edo State

The NWC at the meeting unanimously condemned the embarrassing actions and utterances of Chief Dan Orbih relating to the Edo State Governorship Primary Election of our great Party which actions and utterances are inconsistent with the provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017) and the demand of his office as a national officer of the Party.

Consequently, the NWC has set up a six-member committee headed by the Deputy National Chairman (South) Amb. Taofeek Arapaja, to investigate the issue pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution of the Party.

In the meantime, the NWC forthwith suspends Chief Dan Orbih from participating in all meetings, activities and programs of the NWC pending the conclusion of investigation by the Committee.

The NWC acknowledges the support and solidarity of the overwhelming majority of the people of Edo State who are rallying with our Party and Candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, whose vision is in tandem with the Will and aspiration of the people for continued massive development of the State on the platform of the PDP.

The NWC charges all leaders, critical stakeholders and teeming members of our Party in Edo State to remain united, focused and continue to work hard for the victory of our Party and Candidate in the September 21, 2024 Governorship election in Edo State.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary

*Foundation marks Obaseki’s 67 birthday*.

The management and staff of Roseluyi Exceptional Students Academy (RESA) has held a party in honour of the 67th birthday of Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

Addressing journalists in Benin City, the Founder/Visioner of Roseluyi Exceptional Students Academy (RESA), Mrs. Osarhiemen Isaac-Aluyi, commended Governor Obaseki for his support to the Academy and vulnerable persons in the State.

She also lauded the exemplary leadership of Governor Obaseki which she said has made life meaningful for people including the less privileged and prayed for God to empower him more to record more feats for the special children and the state in general.

“We have declared today in Roseluyi exceptional Academy as Obaseki’s day, we declared it since last year, the other year, and this year, since three years in a role now, we are celebrating, whether is here or not we celebrate him.

“He is one Governor that I have seen who is so passionate about those vulnerable in our society, is been there for us not just RESA, to everyone, so we decided in this school to come today, we leant and do vocational but is Godwin Obaseki’s day just as you see the funders day so is holiday if you come for therapy today is free from outside because is Obaseki's day in RESA and is going to remain as RESA remains so July first remain his day.

“We want to say thank you Mr. Governor, we love, we pray for you on a daily basis,” she noted.

She further explained that she has experienced Military and Civilian Governors in Edo state but Governor Obaseki administration is super.

*PHOTO CAPTION*
Founder/Visioner of Roseluyi Exceptional Students Academy (RESA), Mrs. Osarhiemen Isaac-Aluyi (right), with pupils and staff of the Academy, during a celebration in honour of the 67th birthday of Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, in Benin City, on Monday, July 1, 2024.

*Obaseki @ 67: A legacy steeped in excellence*

*_By Crusoe Osagie_*

When historians write about the exploits of great men, they are always careful about the details, ensuring to capture the elements that define a person’s epocal milestones. Most times, the stories are told of their triumph and victories, other times, of their frailties. But ultimately, these tales speak to the essence of a person’s greatest battles and how they overcome them and chart a new, definitive course.

When the story of Godwin Obaseki, who today turns 67, is told, it will feature a rich chapter dedicated to his triumphant foray into public service, with numerous pages preoccupied with showcasing his bold, courageous and eventful stay in office, where he wrestled principalities and laid the foundations to restore Edo’s glory – somewhat like a renaissance era in the 21st century.

Obaseki, no doubt, had an eventful career as an investment banker. His exploits are the stuff of legend in corporate Nigeria, where he strode like a colossus, amassing a dashing profile as an investment banker, helping companies raise capital, taking Nigerian businesses to the global stage and contributing to industry-wide reforms that continue to reverberate in the larger economy.

However, serving as Governor of Edo State, Obaseki showcased an unbridled appetite for development and progress. Apparently, a personal trait that many may have missed in their study of Obaseki’s character is an uncanny focus on delivering results. This much was apparent in the manner in which he administered the state.

In a careful analysis of his campaign promises, manifesto and policy documents placed side by side with his developmental strides, one sees an emphasis on ensuring that targets are met with clinical precision. It is as if one needs a particular angle of vision to truly appreciate his genius – a birds-eye view of the somewhat disarticulated activities on the ground level that ultimately leads to all pieces properly aligning to deliver the best of outcomes. In different spheres of development in the state, this eagle-eye view is apparent.

As a governor, he is not one given to noise, grandstanding or frivolous talks. He fought back and challenged ideas and personalities headlong. Even when many wonder what is driving his quest, they only come to appreciate his concerns when reality kicks in years after. Case in point is Nigeria’s current economic impasse occasioned by years of reckless economic mismanagement, which Obaseki warned about years ago.

As a governor, he pursued aggressive reforms. He also worked tirelessly to deliver on key policy changes that led to catalytic progress – from education to healthcare to agriculture and environmental sustainability, among others. Above all, what is incontrovertible about the governor is his stubborn belief in what is right and proper.

The governor will be completing his eight-year stint at Dennis Osadebe Avenue, in Benin City, on November 12, 2024. But what would be running through the minds of many is the legacy he would be leaving behind – what has defined his stay in government and what the generality of the people will remember him for. Such posers are expected given that he led the state through a period of transitions, from a point when the world was transiting to new modes of living and working to an era characterised by global upheavals with a slew of wars, climate concerns and economic instability.

Did Obaseki give a good account of himself? What would historians write in his own chapter in the annals of Edo history? Do Edo people really sit back to appreciate the extent of his reforms in changing the state’s development trajectory? Will he be celebrated after he leaves office?

First, it would be said that as Governor, Obaseki fought many battles. In many of these battles, he came tops. The harder question would be if the battles were necessary or if he should have taken a less confrontational or diplomatic path. In his reading, the governor has volunteered that he believes there was no other way to instill the kind of changes he has engendered. Many would defer. But that remains for posterity to unravel, especially given the peculiar nature of Nigeria’s political space.

Edo’s economy has grown by almost 150% in the last seven and half years since 2017, with the Gross Domestic Product, GDP, now in the region of $25bn. This can be attributed to concerted efforts to open up the economy and transit from a ‘civil service’ state to an industrialised economy. Some of the pieces that many have not taken into account in this puzzle is how fast it will grow in the coming years on account of Obaseki’s reforms.

This is premised on a solid groundwork rooted in sound policies and programmes implemented in the last few years. Aside from providing quality education for over 400,000 pupils in schools and ensuring a pathway to sustain their current levels of literacy and numeracy up till tertiary levels, the government has also set a template for driving productivity.

In boosting economic growth, the governor has fixed a crucial problem that plagues efforts at sparking industrial growth in developing countries, which is creating that essential link between producers of raw materials to processing business that need their inputs to produce finished and semi-finished goods.

So when allocating farm estates to interested businesses, the Edo State Oil Palm Programme, ESOPP, designed a model that would ensure that makers of Fast Moving Consumer Goods, FMCGs, got the land needed for their Backward Integration drive. As a result, some of the biggest FMCG brands in Nigeria are sourcing raw materials for their industrial plants from Edo State. Not only does this boost job creation and productive use of land that had been hitherto deforested due to years of encroachment on restricted forest reserves, the state is now better positioned to serve as a major source of raw material for local and international business concerns. The long term benefits of this scheme is that Edo would become the major supplier of raw materials and semi-finished goods.

The other critical investment is in the state’s digital infrastructure. Over 2000km of fibre optic cables have been laid across the State connected to healthcare, education and technology assets. This is strategic in positioning the state and its youths to take advantage of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Already, the Edo Tech Park is training tech talent with youths getting upskilled and realising their goals of kicking off tech careers from Edo State. Investment in electricity and the rep operational modular refineries in the State also add colour to the firmament of industrial activities in the State.

This trend is replete in the other areas where Obaseki has made the most impact. The tradition of thinking of development in hubs is a peculiar feature of the Obaseki-led administration. There are at least six hubs that have been established in Edo cutting across Education, Health, Creative Economy, Agriculture, Technology, among others.

As he leaves office in November, the question remains: who will remember Obaseki’s legacy of excellence? Ask the 400,000 Edo children and their teachers who are covered in the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EdoBEST) Programme. Ask investors and the several businesses along Sapele Road and other parts of Benin City who are hooked on Ossiomo Power. Ask pensioners and civil servants. Ask subscribers to the Edo Health Insurance Scheme. Ask the over 30,000 investors and citizens who have processed their Certificate-of-Occupancy (C-of-O).

It is undeniable that Obaseki is leaving Edo far better than he met it. What is even more enabling is that he has set in motion a 30-year development plan that would guide the state’s development trajectory. This speaks again to his unrivaled penchant to prioritise results and performance over rhetoric. He will remain, undoubtedly, as Edo’s most prolific reformers.

*_Osagie is the Special Adviser to Governor Obaseki on Media Projects_*

*I have no regrets as Edo's governor, Obaseki declares*

_*...says we’ve surpassed our govt’s promises to Edo people, placed State on path of progress*_

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has disclosed that he has no regrets as the State’s helmsman in the last seven and a half years, noting that his government has delivered and surpassed all electioneering promises made to the people of the State.

Obaseki, who spoke during an interview with journalists in Benin City, said there is no area or sector he pledged and talked about that hasn't impacted.

The governor, who said his government has laid a solid foundation for the State's progress and development, noted that he would be remembered as the governor who changed the course of education in the State and led a number of reforms and programmes that have placed the State on the path of prosperity.

According to him, “As Edo State Governor in these last few years, I don't have any regrets. In fact, when I look at my manifesto, what I said I was going to do; I've surpassed everything I said I will do.

“I have exceeded everything I said I will do and there was not one area I mentioned, that I talked about that I didn't have a kind of impact on.”

Obaseki further noted, “I’m a realistic person. One administration or one governor cannot do it all. What I have done is to lay a foundation and by the grace of God, we have a successor who will continue to build on that, in the direction that I started with and someone who shares the same values of service to the people.

“Democracy is not a destination in itself; it is a process. It will always be better; things will always be better than when you met them.”

On his impact on various sectors of the State's economy, Obaseki stated, “Yes, I can beat my chest and say I changed the course of education in my State. I have trained more than half a million children and given them sound, solid basic education but that's not all they need. Somebody needs to come and build on that.

“In terms of the health care system in my State, I've changed it totally, moved my primary health care system from the local government and joined hands with the local government and just refreshed it. I have dealt with the major issues pertaining to health in Nigeria, which is healthcare financing, how you pay out-of-pocket. I have a thriving healthcare insurance system in Edo today that has over 250,000 policies, but it needs to grow.”

He added, “So, I just thank God that I had the opportunity to try and if I were to do it again, I will do it exactly like I did it.”

*Obaseki to constitute new governing council for Ambrose Alli varsity as SIT presents report*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has said a new Governing Council for the State-owned Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma will be constituted to take over from the outgoing Special Intervention Team (SIT).

The governor who spoke when he received the SIT team end of tenure report, at the Government House, Benin City, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to repositioning the institution to meet global standards.

Obaseki commended the team for their commitment towards reviving the institution within a short stint, reassuring that the new council to be inaugurated to take over from the SIT will continue on the trajectory of progress established by the team.

He said, “I express my profound gratitude and appreciation to the Chairman and members of the SIT for the great success recorded in your job despite the circumstances with which we decided to put up the SIT. The school had almost collapsed as the choices before us were limited. It was either to close or restart the institution. We had to get a team of reputable individuals to look at how to restart the Institution. We thank God for finding people like you who agreed to help out.

“Look at its ranking 40 years ago. We were amongst national and international Universities, compared to where we are today. I am glad you have done your bid to stem the rot to make the school look like an institution again. There are still lots of work today.

“When I see and hear people politicizing academics, I feel really sad because we don't really know where we are in the world today as some of our leaders are happy to see our institutions on the floor as it gives them a sense of authority.

“For the sake and the future of our children, it was necessary we cleaned up the institution to enable it compete with what we have across the globe. Ignore what they are saying about you as I have learned to turn my back on them.”

The governor continued: “A university has to be a citadel of learning. It has to show example, knowledge, conduct and morality. I put it on record again; AAU is not an Esan University but an Edo State University. So, there should not be any ethnic capture of any State university as taxpayers’ money is going into it. It belongs to all the people of Edo State.

“You can’t be an ethnic professor. You can't become a professor because you come from a particular place. I want the full report submitted as I am going to appoint a Council for the school that will take off from where you stopped. I will make sure they see the report, implement the recommendations that are contained in your report and follow up with most of the initiatives you have started.

“I am sad and disappointed seeing how politicians have politicized the institution as Esan land is a place where education has taken its roots. The records are clear; facts are there to check.

“I want to thank and appreciate the students of the school because we did it for them. Politics is now as we can campaign as we have evidence that the school has improved tremendously for the better. The new council and government will ensure we continue at this level and never allow retrogression of the school,” he assured.

On his part, the Chairman of the AAU SIT, Engr. Andrew Olotu said the past thirty-six months on the task was daunting and challenging, commending Governor Obaseki for his support towards the success of their tenure.

A member of the SIT, Comrade Austin Osakue, who delivered the report of the team highlighted achievements in the ten areas of reference for the team.

According to him, “The school currently has 1,715 staff and 625 pensioners cleared as at May 2024 as N330.4 million are salaries while N72.3m is for pension paid regularly.

“The Institution cleared outstanding loans/debts of the University of N400m and also cleared 8 months outstanding salaries. It has N84m in savings for the smooth take-off of the contributory pension. The University requires government subvention which must be towards capital intervention

“Adhoc staffing has been abolished and qualified indigenes engaged as full staff to fill identified gaps in the University. A university work study program has been initiated and running, while EdoHIS is now operational for all our students.”

In attendance at the presentation was the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq.; Commissioner for Education, Dr. Joan Osa-Oviawe and Ag. VC AAU, Prof. Sonnie Adagbonyin and other members of the SIT, among others.

*PHOTO CAPTION*

L-R: Chairman of the outgoing Ambrose Alli University (AAU) Special Intervention Team (SIT) SIT, Engr. Andrew Olotu; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Secretary to the Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., and Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, during the presentation of report by the outgoing Special Intervention Team, at the Government House, Benin City, on Friday, June 21, 2024.

*Obaseki to begin electronic signing of C-of-Os, recommits to 100% paperless governance*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) is the only document he still signs manually as the State’s chief executive, noting that plans have been concluded to begin electronic signing of the title document.

Obaseki, who disclosed this when he spoke with journalists in Benin City, the Edo State capital, reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring a completely paperless governance system.

He said the State has embraced technology through the e-governance system and has transitioned into a paperless government, leading to the archiving of seven million government documents.

Obaseki noted that the new system has streamlined government operations and ensured accountability, transparency, effectiveness, efficiency, and quick service delivery to Edo people.

The governor who stated that the State has since commenced the issuance of computerized Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) to landed property owners in the State, said plans have been concluded to introduce electronic signing of C-of-Os as part of renewed efforts to enhance efficiency and transparency in land administration.

According to him, “We have focused on reducing our cost of governance, leveraging technology. We have made significant progress in our land administration system through our nuanced reforms. Very soon, I will begin to sign our Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-Os) electronically. They are the only documents I sign now. Everything else is online; we're paperless.”

The Obaseki-led administration has undertaken nuanced reforms to ease the process of land registration and improvement in land management in the State, leveraging technology.

The governor’s land reforms have led to the approval and issuance of over 30,000 Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-Os) in the last seven and a half years.

*Edo govt condemns rape, murder of 22-year-old UNIBEN fresh graduate, Adekolure Glory*

*…Obaseki gives Edo CP 7 days to fish out perpetrators*

The Edo State Government has condemned, in the strongest terms, the alleged rape and gruesome murder of Adekolure Idowu Glory, a fresh graduate of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) who was allegedly raped and killed in Iyowa Community, Benin City, on Thursday, June 13, 2024.

Glory, aged 22, was said to have been on her way home from processing her clearance when she was tortured and raped to death by yet-to-be-identified persons, and her remains dropped close to her mother’s house.

In a statement, the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, who expressed shock and sadness over the incident, noted that the State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has ordered the State Commissioner of Police to fish out the perpetrators of the dastardly and unconscionable act within the next 7 days.

The statement reads: “The Edo State Government is shocked and deeply saddened by the gruesome murder of Adekolure Idowu Glory, a fresh graduate of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) who was allegedly raped and killed by yet-to-be-identified persons in Iyowa Community, within the Benin metropolis.

“It is most disheartening to hear of the sad incident and the State Government condemns, in the strongest terms, the dastardly and unconscionable act.

“The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, expresses his deep-felt condolences to the family of the victim and has ordered the State Commissioner of Police, CP Funsho Adegboye to thoroughly investigate the circumstances that led to the death of Miss Adekolure Idowu Glory and fish out the perpetrators of the heinous and mindless act within the next 7 days.”