₦airaland Forum

The National Association of University Students (NAUS) has dissolved the Edo State Campus Monitoring Committee (CMC), the arm of the student body in charge of managing the day-to-day affairs of university students in Edo.

This was contained in a statement signed by the National Vice President, South-South Zone of NAUS, Comrade Micheal Imoloame, and dated February 2, 2026.

He said the dissolution was following a comprehensive review of recent activities of the Association in the state.

According to him, “The CMC, which was led by Comrade Praise Ogana, was dissolved at the Pre-Convention and Enlarged Stakeholders’ Meeting held on Saturday, 31st January, 2026, in Benin City, in line with the provisions of Article 25, Section 28 (G), and Article 39, Section 42 of the NAUS Constitution.”

The Association stated that the dissolution was taken in the overall interest of NAUS and the sustainability of the movement.

“Following the dissolution, the Convention Planning Committee (CPC), under the leadership of Comrade Omigie Owen Sunny, has been directed to assume acting responsibility for the affairs of the CMC for a period of thirty days. Within this period, the CPC is to conduct a fresh, free, fair and credible election to usher in a new set of CMC leaders in Edo State.

“Members and stakeholders of the Association have been enjoined to accord the CPC due respect and render all necessary cooperation and support to enable it discharge its responsibility effectively,” the statement added.

The Association also called on all stakeholders, leaders, sister bodies, university managements, the Edo State Government and security agencies to take note of the development.

“In line with established procedures, the former CMC Chairman, Comrade Praise Ogana, has been given a seven day notice, effective from the date of the announcement, to return all NAUS properties in his possession, including handover notes, constitution, official stamps, documents and vehicle number plates. The Association warned that failure to comply would compel it to take all necessary steps to retrieve its properties,” it concluded.

The dissolved Comrade Praise Ogana-led NAUS Edo CMC was elected into office on November 2, 2025 for a period of one year.

Switruth:
less money for the intellectuals while bigger pay for the fools in politics. Now tell me why people won't scream that education is a scam?

The Osasere Osifo Prize for Academic Excellence has honoured Miss Odigie Adesuwa Jessica, the Overall Best Graduating Student of the University of Benin, at the recently concluded 51st Convocation Ceremony, with a cash prize of ₦500,000. Miss Jessica graduated from Chemistry, Faculty of Physical Sciences with a First Class degree, recording an impressive CGPA of 4.89.

Also honoured was Miss Omoniyi Oghenekevwe Deborah, who emerged as the Best Graduating Student in the Department of Physics, the Convener’s former department, Faculty of Physical Sciences. Deborah, who graduated with Second Class Upper degree with a CGPA of 4.19, received a cash prize of ₦250,000.

The Academic Prize is an initiative of a former President of the UNIBEN Students’ Union Government, Engr. Osasere Favour Osifo, who currently serves as the President of the University of Benin Alumni Association, North America (UBAANA). Instituted in 2021, the prize has now awarded a total of ₦3 million to eleven (11) recipients across three convocation years.

The award presentation ceremony took place on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the institution’s Students’ Affairs Division. Miss Jessica, a graduate of the Faculty of Physical Sciences, received a dual honour for emerging as the Best Graduating Student in the Convener’s former faculty and as the Overall Best Graduating Student of the University. Miss Deborah was similarly honoured as the Best Graduating Student in the Department of Physics under the same faculty.

Speaking at the ceremony, Engr. Osifo stated that the Academic Prize was instituted with a clear and purposeful vision to recognise, reward, and inspire academic excellence. He described the occasion as one dedicated to celebrating brilliance, discipline, and the unwavering pursuit of knowledge.

Engr. Osifo, who was ably represented at the event by a former Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Governor, Hon. Uyi Valentine, noted that the award “was born out of a deep belief that hard work deserves recognition, that excellence should never go unnoticed, and that young minds who dedicate themselves to learning should be encouraged to dream even bigger.”

He added, “Since its inception, we have remained steadfast and true to this mission. Year after year, we have celebrated students who chose diligence over distraction, perseverance over convenience, and excellence over mediocrity, students who quite literally burned the midnight candle in pursuit of their goals.

“What we are doing here today is more than the presentation of an award. It is a statement. A statement that there is dignity in labour. A statement that discipline pays off. A statement that society still values intellect, effort, and character.”

Engr. Osifo therefore called on corporate bodies, government institutions, and well-meaning organisations to invest more intentionally in academic excellence. “When we celebrate scholarship, we refocus our youth. When we reward effort, we strengthen our future. And when we honour excellence, we inspire generations yet unborn,” he said.

He congratulated the award recipients for their outstanding academic distinction, noting that their achievements placed them among the finest scholars produced by the institution. According to him, “This is no small feat. Your accomplishments reflect intellectual rigour, resilience, and an exceptional commitment to learning.

“This token we present today is modest, but its message is powerful. It is an expression of appreciation, encouragement, and belief in your future. The tenacity, discipline, and excellence you demonstrated to attain these results will take you far in life. The world is waiting for what you will become and what you will contribute.”

He further prayed that their achievements would inspire others, remind students that excellence is attainable, and continue to serve as a beacon of hope and motivation.

University officials present at the ceremony included the Dean of Students, Prof. F. O. Ekhaise; Director, Directorate of Advancement and Alumni Relations, Prof. Edward (Eddy) Erhagbe; Head of Department, Chemistry, Prof. Emmanuel Irabor; Head of Department, Physics, Prof. Chris Aigbogun; and the Deputy Registrar, Students’ Affairs Division, Mr. Benjamin O. Omere.

Other representatives of the Osasere Osifo Prize for Academic Excellence in attendance were a former Students’ Union President, Hon. Raymond Omorogbe; and a former Special Assistant to the Edo State Deputy Governor and Publisher of Campus Gist, Comrade Ogochukwu Isioma. Other stakeholders present included Comrade Sylvester Okoh and Comrade David Salami.

The Edo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Mr. Godwin Omobayo, whom the government described as the former illegitimate deputy governor, demanding the immediate return of all government property and assets still in his possession.

In a statement on Tuesday signed by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Fred Itua, the government expressed dismay that despite several formal reminders, Omobayo has yet to surrender official items, including vehicles, documents, and other state-owned assets assigned to him during what it called his “brief and illegitimate tenure.”

“The Government has observed with dismay that several official items, including vehicles, documents, and other State-owned assets assigned to Mr. Omobayo during his brief and illegitimate tenure, are yet to be surrendered to the appropriate authorities, despite multiple formal reminders,” the statement read.

The government emphasized that all assets acquired or used in the course of public service remain the property of the state and must be returned upon leaving office.

“The continued retention of such property by any individual constitutes a clear breach of public trust and an unlawful possession of state assets,” the statement added.

According to the directive, Omobayo has seven days from the date of the release to comply fully by returning all government property in his custody to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).

Failure to meet the deadline, the government warned, would trigger legal enforcement measures.

“Failure to comply within the stipulated period will compel the Government to direct the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, to effect his arrest and ensure the immediate recovery of all State assets still in his possession through lawful means,” the government cautioned.

The statement reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and protection of public property under the leadership of Senator Monday Okpebholo.

“No individual, regardless of former position or political affiliation, will be permitted to unlawfully appropriate or retain assets belonging to the people of Edo State,” it stated.

The government stressed that it would continue to uphold the principles of transparency, discipline, and integrity in public service, ensuring that all public officers are held to the highest standards of probity.

“This administration remains unwavering in its commitment to due process and public accountability,” the statement concluded. “Mr. Omobayo is therefore urged to respect this directive and avoid actions that could invite consequences or further embarrassment.”

Omobayo was sworn in as Deputy Governor on April 8, 2024, by then-Governor Godwin Obaseki, following the political fallout with his former deputy, Philip Shaibu, after he was impeached by the Edo State House of Assembly just months before the end of their tenure.

However, the courts later nullified the impeachment, describing it as illegal, null and void, and politically motivated, while reinstating Shaibu as the duly elected and legally recognized Deputy Governor of Edo State.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has relieved Barr. Samson Osagie of his duties as the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.

In his place, the governor on Tuesday named Professor Roland Itoya Otaru, one of the newly sworn-in commissioners, as the new Attorney General.

WWW.METROWATCHXTRA.COM recalls that Governor Okpebholo had, in February, suspended Osagie over allegations of serious official and financial misconduct. The governor subsequently set up an investigative panel to probe the allegations and make recommendations to government.

However, 37 days later, in March, Osagie was reinstated after the panel reportedly cleared him of any financial wrongdoing.

In a letter dated March 12, 2025, and signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., the government said the investigative report had exonerated Osagie of all charges.

“Having considered the report of the Investigative Panel set up by the Government to investigate allegations of financial infractions reported against you, which has exonerated you from the said allegations, I write to convey the directive of the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, that you resume duties as the State Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice with effect from 12th March, 2025,” the letter stated.

But in a minor cabinet reshuffle announced on Tuesday, Osagie was dropped entirely from the state executive council, paving the way for Professor Otaru to take over as the new Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.

A section of the popular Oba Market, located at the heart of Ring Road in Benin City, has been gutted by fire once again.

The incident occurred on Wednesday night.

As at the time of filing this report, cause of the incident remains unknown.

The market, which was previously destroyed by fire during the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki, is currently undergoing reconstruction under the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led government.

Meanwhile, chairman of the Oredo local government council, Hon. Gabriel Iduseri, has visited the burnt Oba market which falls under the council.

During an on-the-spot assessment in the wee hours of Thursday, Iduseri vowed not to leave the traders to face the loss alone.

“This is a tragic moment for our people, especially for hardworking traders who depend on this market for their daily bread. We will not leave them to face this alone,” he said.

Suspected political thugs allegedly loyal to Barr. Julius Abure, former National Chairman of the Labour Party, have attacked a prominent Edo-based human rights activist, Precious Oruche, at the Benin Airport.

Miss Oruche, popularly known as Mama Pee, is a staunch supporter of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, a former ally of Abure.

The incident occurred on Saturday morning at the airport premises.

Trending videos seen by this online medium show one of Mama Pee’s eyes swollen, with what appears to be bloodstains also visible on the airport floor near the arrival hallway.

Narrating her ordeal, the activist said she had boarded the same commercial flight to Benin with Abure and confronted the former party chairman over his alleged mismanagement of the Labour Party’s affairs.

She accused Abure of mobilizing his supporters to the Benin Airport to physically attack and inflict bodily harm on her over the confrontation.

“I saw Julius Abure, and I told him that ‘you are the one destroying the lives of Nigerians,’ and then he brought thugs to harass me… look at them ooo,” Mama Pee said, directing her camera at the suspected thugs during an Instagram Live broadcast.

“I saw Julius Abure of Labour Party inside the Max Air flight, and I told him, ‘you are the one destroying the lives of Nigerians… you sold Labour Party,’ and then he called his thugs to wait for me at the airport.”

Pointing at some of the suspected thugs being restrained on the airport grounds, Mama Pee continued: “The other one hit me in the eye; that one said he was going to shoot me. I have it on camera.”

In a live telephone conversation with one of her contacts, who had offered to mobilize supporters to the airport following the attack, Mama Pee vowed to continue holding politicians accountable.

“There is no need. Anywhere I see any dirty politician, I will keep on embarrassing them… until they kill me, they will not have peace. Julius Abure will destroy Labour Party and then carry thugs and wait for people that question him,” she said.

Watch video
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPGc3VajKxh/?igsh=MTJ4M2s1c3dreDNzZQ==

Meanwhile, in a separate video released by friends and associates of the injured activist while giving an update on the attack, they confirmed that the incident had been reported to the Edo State Police Command in Benin City.

They, however, expressed displeasure that Mama Pee was being detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for hours under the guise of obtaining statements from her.

The associates alleged that one John Abure, believed to be a brother of Julius Abure, led the attack and also smashed Mama Pee’s iPhone 14 Pro Max in the presence of airport security personnel.

They are now demanding justice, including the arrest of the Abures and the suspected political thugs behind the attack, as well as the unconditional release of Mama Pee. They also called on Nigerians to join in the fight for justice.

“Today, it is Mama Pee; tomorrow, it can be you or anybody. The law is meant to protect the weak from the strong. But what we have today is the law being used against the weak by the strong.”

The concerned citizens, made up of members of civil society organizations and the Obidient Movement, therefore called on all Labour Party supporters in Edo State to show solidarity, adding: “An injury to one is an injury to all.”

The update
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPG_WjeCHBn/?igsh=a2FhdXVzdjlzcnlx

The Joint Campus Council (JCC) of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Edo State, has condemned the alleged rape of a minor by one Mr Okoromi Abhasebhor, a lecturer at the department of Mathematics, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma. Nollywood movie merchandise

METROWATCH gathered that, the incident occurred on Monday, 7th of July, 2025 in the lecturer’s office during working hours. The victim, a 16-year-old food vendor, was said to have gone to deliver food ordered by another lecturer within the school premises, when the accused had forceful carnal knowledge of her.

After the act, the accused lecturer reportedly attempted to bribe the minor with bundles of money and begged her not to tell anyone but the victim was said to have reported the incident to her aunt, whom had sent her on the errand.

Following the incident, the victim was sent to the Irrua Specialist Hospital where medical reports obtained from the hospital reportedly confirmed that there was indeed forceful penetration.

Reacting, the NANS JCC Chairman, Comrade Ojumoola Timileyin, in a statement on Thursday, called on the university authority to suspend the lecturer, and urged the police to bring the alleged perpetrator to justice.

Though, the victim is not a student, NANS said the victim, being a 16-year-old, makes her a minor within the ambit of the law. It described the accused as “sexually untamed and uncultured element of a lecturer.”

“While it has been confirmed that the girl isn’t a student of the University, NANS as the apex student body is worried and concerned about the already established fact that we have a monster within the ranks of those we are learning from,” Timileyin said.

“On that note, we are calling on the university authority and the police to ensure that no stone is left unturned in bringing this notorious sexual element to justice.

“We demand the immediate condemnation and suspension of the said lecturer by the University management so as to serve as a deterrent to others within the next 48 hours.”

Management reacts

Meanwhile, management of the Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma has officially issued a query to the accused lecturer, Mr. Okoromi Abhasebhor, following the incident.

In a letter signed by the university’s Acting Registrar, Ephraim Isiraojie, management of the institution gave him 48 hours to respond to the allegations.

The letter was addressed to the lecturer through his Head of Department, Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Physical Sciences.

It reads, “The University Management is in receipt of security report of an alleged case of rape against you on one Vera Sunday, a food vendor in the Faculty of Physical Sciences on 7th of July, 2025.

“It was also alleged that you brought out bundles of money, begged her not to tell anybody but the victim refused and made report to her Aunt.

“The security report also states that the victim was sent to Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital for medical examinations and the results shows that there was forceful penetration into her virginal.

“In view of the foregoing, you are required to explain within 48 hours, through the Head of Department and Dean of your Faculty, why disciplinary action should not be taken against you for this alleged act of gross misconduct.“

Popular Kano billionaire businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, has passed away at the age of 94.

His death was confirmed on Saturday Morning in a statement issued by his Principal Private Secretary, Mustapha Abdullahi Junaid.

The statement reads, “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. It is with heavy heart that I announce the passing of our beloved father Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata. May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus and forgive his shortcomings. The Janazah details will be shared later insha Allah.”

Alhaji Dantata is the founder of Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd and played a key role in the establishment of Jaiz Bank, Nigeria’s first non-interest (Islamic) bank.

He is an uncle to Africa’s richest man and founder of Dangote refineries, Alhaji Aliko Dangote.

The National Institute of Construction Technology and Management (NICTM), Uromi, has emerged winner of the maiden edition of the inter-school quiz competition organized by the Joint Campus Council (JCC) of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Edo State Axis.

The intellectually charged competition, held on Friday at Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, brought together top higher institutions across Edo State in a battle of wits, ideas, and academic depth, with the theme: “Safe Campus for Students: Combating Physical and Digital Threats.”

In a thrilling finale that ended in a tie between NICTM and the University of Benin (UNIBEN), the judges invoked a tie-breaker round to determine the winner. NICTM clinched the coveted first place, earning the grand prize of ₦300,000, while UNIBEN took the second position with a prize of ₦200,000. Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, came third and received ₦100,000.

Other participating institutions included Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi; Edo State Polytechnic, Usen; and the Federal College of Education (Technical), Ekiadolor. The event attracted a wide range of dignitaries, government representatives, security agencies, and student leaders from across the country.

The symposium featured a special keynote session delivered by the Acting Zonal Director of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Benin Zonal Directorate, Effa Okim represented by the anti-graft agency’s Head of Public Affairs, Williams Oseghale.

Speaking on the topic, “Use the Cyberspace Positively”, Oseghale, an Assistant Commander of the EFCC, admonished students to harness digital platforms for knowledge, entrepreneurship, and positive influence, rather than as tools for crime or deceit.

“You are the digital generation. Use that power responsibly,” he said. “The internet is not just a playground—it is a powerful tool. Choose to build, not destroy. Choose to enlighten, not exploit.”

Hon. Gani Akokhia, the Member representing Etsako West Constituency II at the Edo State House of Assembly and an alumnus of AAU, also graced the event. Representing the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, Hon. Akokhia applauded the students for their intellectual display, describing the event as a breath of fresh air in student politics.

“This competition is proof that our students are not just making noise—they are making sense. And as an alumnus of this great institution, I am proud to see this intellectual renaissance taking root right here on campus,” he said.

Also speaking, Comrade Jimah Mubarak, the Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Governor on Student Matters, lauded the initiative, stating that student engagement is pivotal to building safer learning environments.

“Security is not just about gates and guards,” he noted. “It is about awareness, vigilance, and shared responsibility. Students are not mere beneficiaries of security—they are co-creators of it.”

He said Governor Monday Okpebholo remains firmly committed to securing educational spaces in the state. “His Excellency believes that evil must be rooted out from every layer of society, including our campuses,” he said.

“His SHINE agenda places premium value on youth empowerment, education, and security. But government can’t do it alone. Students must carry the torch,” SSA Mubarak concluded.

In his welcome address, Comrade Ojumoola Miracle Timileyin, Chairman of NANS JCC, Edo State Axis, expressed gratitude to all participants and stakeholders for their support in making the event a success.

“This is more than a competition—it is a movement,” he declared. “A movement of students who are ready to lead with their minds, not just their voices. Today, we proved that intellectual excellence can be the new protest.”

Comrade Timileyin explained that the idea behind the quiz competition was to create a platform where academic excellence, critical thinking, and constructive engagement could be celebrated and rewarded among Nigerian students.

“We believe that fostering a culture of scholarship and collaboration among students can combat many of the vices plaguing campuses today. This event was a call to elevate the standard of student unionism in Edo State,” he added.

The event drew praise from attendees, including the Acting Vice Chancellor of AAU, Professor Samuel Olowo, who congratulated the winning teams and encouraged the student leaders to continue pursuing excellence.

The NANS National President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, represented by the NANS Zone B Coordinator, Comrade Micheal Iwara, also expressed pride in the NANS JCC Edo Axis for raising the bar of student activism.

“What happened in Ekpoma today is what we expect across campuses—smart leadership, meaningful engagement, and youth-driven development. The NANS of today must reflect the solutions Nigeria needs,” Comrade Iwara said.

Other notable attendees included NANS stakeholders from across zones, representatives of the National Association of University Students (NAUS), National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), and the National Association of Nigerian Colleges of Education Students (NANCES).

Highlight of the event was the decoration of the AAU Acting VC as a Patron of NANS by the Zonal Coordinator in recognition of his excellent relationship with students and in appreciation of his remarkable leadership style. The Edo NANS JCC equally presented a certificate of appreciation to the VC for his support and contribution towards the success of the program.

The event also witnessed presentation of awards and certificates of recognition to deserving guests, dignitaries, NANS stakeholders; and presentation of prizes to the winning institutions — NICTM, UNIBEN and AAU, Ekpoma, including consolation prizes.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Monday, swore in the Chairman of the State Universal Education Board (SUBEB), six new Commissioners, Chairmen and members of Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC), Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC), and State Secondbary Education Board (SSEB).

Addressing the newly sworn in executives at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Edo State, Governor Okpebholo charged them to help him drive development and progress in the State, stressing that his administration is in a hurry to bring development.

Harping on the unique qualities and capacity of the newly sworn in executives, Governor Okpebholo noted that they reflect the requisite commitment of his administration to bring good governance, efficient and effective service delivery and fulfill the promises made to the people of Edo State.

Governor Okpebholo said: “To the newly appointed executives, congratulations on your appointment. This appointment is not just an honor but a call to serve with dedication, integrity, and excellence. You have been chosen because of your skills and the trust we have in your ability to contribute meaningfully to the development of our State.

“I encourage you to work with a share sense of purpose, prioritize teamwork, and remain focused on improving the lives of our citizens. Together, we can make Edo State a model of growth and prosperity.”

The new Chairman of SUBEB is Onomen Goodness Briggs. The new Commissioners are Sir Lucky Eseigbe; Hon. Paul Nosayaba Ohonbamu; Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu; Hon. Dr. Washington Osa Osifo; Mr. Andrew Ijegbai; and Barr. Marie Olabisi ldaomi.

Portfolios for the new Commissioners will be announced later.

Also sworn in are Jonathan Aifuobhokhan as Chairman, EDSIEC; Francis Osaretin Osabuohien as chairman, EDSOGPADEC; and Omozane Ebanehita Sonia as chairman, SSEB.

Speaking on behalf of the newly sworn-in executives, Hon. Paul Ohobamu thanked Governor for finding them worthy of the appointment and assured him of their commitment and dedication to ensuring that Edo people enjoy good and practical governance in the State.

Present at the swearing in ceremony were the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa; Secretary to Edo State Government, Musa Ikhilor; Chief of Staff to Edo State Governor, Gani Audu; Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Samson Osagie; former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Comrade Phillip Shaibu; immediate-past State chairman, All Progressive Congress (APC) Col. David Imuse (rtd); Party leaders, top government functionaries, amongst others.

A Federal High sitting in Abuja has declined jurisdiction in a case filed by the suspended chairmen of the 18 Local Government Councils in Edo State.

The court presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, had adjourned the matter to Monday, the 20th of January, 2025 for hearing of a Motion on Notice for an interlocutory injunction filed by the suspended chairmen.

When the matter came up on Monday morning, the presiding Judge informed the lawyers to the parties that upon an application by the counsel for the 1st to 5th Defendants, the case file has been transferred to the Benin Division of the Federal High Court.

The Judge had ordered the parties to maintain status quo. It is uncertain whether or not the interim order will stand, following the transfer of the case from Abuja to Benin.

A senior lawyer present in Court, who did not want his name in print, said the implication of the transfer of the case to Benin is that the Federal High Court in Abuja lacks the territorial jurisdiction to entertain the matter.

“The implication of the transfer is that the Federal High Court Abuja lacks the territorial jurisdiction to entertain the case, since the parties are based in Edo and the main subject matter of the suit is the interpretation of the Edo State Local Government Laws,” the lawyer said.

Aggrieved 18 LG chairmen and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) filed a motion ex parte marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1952/V/2024. In the motion dated Dec 20, 2024, but filed Dec 24, 2024, the chairmen and PDP sued Speaker, Edo state House of Assembly; Executive Governor of Edo State as 1st to 4th defendants.

Also joined in the suit are the Attorney General and Commissioner for justice, Edo state: the Attorney General of the Federation; and the Inspector General of Police, as 5th to 7th defendants respectively.

A socio-economic group, Onitsha Zone Shareholders’ Association has uncovered alleged plans by Afrinvest, a company owned by a former governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki to sell N100 billion bond with the aim of converting them to his personal shares in the future.

The group, led by its chairman, Bishop Goodluck Akpore, made the allegations during a protest visit to Governor Monday Okpebholo in government house, Benin City.

During the visit, Bishop Akpore expressed dissatisfaction with the alleged plan, citing its adverse economic impact on the State and its communities.

He presented a report highlighting issues involving Okomu Oil Palm and Presco PLC and urged Governor Okpebholo to initiate a thorough investigation and take corrective actions to mitigate any further harm.

The association accused Obaseki of using his Afrinvest Company to plan a ₦100 billion bond transaction involving Presco PLC, and alleged a potential conversion of the bond to shares for personal gains.

Bishop Akpore alleged that the oil palm companies colluded with Obaseki’s administration to deprive the State of economic benefits, and criticized the refusal of Presco PLC to compensate host communities for the 36,388 hectares of land acquired for their operations.

He also highlighted the failure of the Obaseki administration to enforce tax collection from the companies, despite their significant profits and lack of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects.

“A trailer load of palm oil leaving Edo State for Lagos is valued at around ₦80 million,” Akpore stated. “Yet, these companies neither remit taxes nor compensate for the lands they have used freely.”

In his response, Governor Okpebholo pledged to launch a comprehensive investigation into the allegations, and emphasized his administration’s commitment to protect the interests of Edo people.

He assured the group that all irregularities would be addressed, and those found culpable would face appropriate sanctions.

“We will seek a peaceful resolution and invite Presco and Okomu Oil Palm to a meeting to discuss these issues,” Okpebholo said.

“While we recognize their contributions to the State’s economy, they must ensure fair contributions and uphold their responsibilities to the host communities.”

The Governor also referenced recent protests over the activities of the oil palm companies and stressed the importance of dialogue in achieving lasting solutions.

The Onitsha Zone Shareholders’ Association, is responsible for protecting shareholder and community interests across Edo, Delta, and other States in the zone, and plays a critical role in monitoring companies’ activities. The group emphasized the need for accountability from Presco and Okomu Oil Palm PLC to assess their tax contributions and CSR impact accurately.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has employed at least 360 Edo citizens from the three Senatorial Districts into the state’s Civil Service.

Those recruited have been deployed to various government ministries and parastatals to boost the state’s workforce.

State Head of service, Dr Anthony Okungbowa disclosed this in his office in Benin City while briefing newsmen on the steps taken by the Okpebholo-led administration to embark on people-centered initiatives.

Okungbowa said the previous administration had a contractual agreement with consultants and contractors who could hire and fire at anytime it pleased them.

He noted that those employed by this present administration are to receive the N70,000 minimum wage paid to all Edo State workers showing the Okpebholo administration’s commitment to delivering good governance in all sectors.

“Recently the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo directed that cleaners should be employed into the State civil service as against using consultants and contractors.

“These consultants and contractors were into business and contract with government. They were paid to employ cleaners to clean government offices, and their take home pay then was not encouraging and couldn’t take them home.

“Gov Okpebholo was not pleased with the arrangement of the Obaseki administration, and as such instructed that a direct employment should be embarked on to ensure Edo people were recruited into the State civil and public service and get paid the N70,000 minimum wage.

“Before now, cleaners in the State were receiving N20,000 to N30,000. They were paid less because consultants are businessmen trading to make gains but the Okpebholo administration decided to change the narrative by giving direct employment to enhance the lives of the people and ensure they enjoy good and practical governance.

“These cleaners then under the previous administration were not government workers but workers to different contractors and consultants and job security was not guaranteed as workers under consultancy services could be sacked unceremoniously”, Okungbowa added.

The HOS further said the present administration has brought into the Edo State Civil and Public Service 360 Edo citizens across the three Senatorial District through direct employment and are now civil and public servants in Edo State.

“They have been given appointment letters and they cut across the three Senatorial Districts of the State.

“This is not the only batch that will be employed by the Edo State government as there will be another batch coming up. We want to bring in the number of cleaners required to clean government offices. 360 have been employed now and also been assigned to their various government ministries and prarastatals”, he said.

The HOS, on behalf of Edo State workers, thanked the governor for embarking on the people-centered initiative of employing a good number of Edo people into the Service and ensuring they benefit from the minimum wage as opposed to what was obtainable in the previous administration.

The Chairman, Edo State Media and Publicity Directorate, APC Presidential Campaign Council, in the 2023 election, Mr. John Mayaki, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all the security agencies to stop ex-Governor Godwin Obaseki from making real his threat to “burn down the country”, since his candidate, Mr. Asue Ighodalo failed to emerge winner of the governorship election in the state.

It would be recalled that the former Governor, had in a viral 20-second-long video before the governorship election and while addressing leaders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) threatened to burn down the country. He said, “We just kept quiet last Thursday, if they try what happened last Thursday again in Edo, Nigeria will burn.”

In a statement, Mayaki called on the security agencies to be on the alert now that the elections petition tribunal has commenced its sitting, to frustrate the threat by the former governor since his candidate lost out in the election.

“Obaseki and his party, the PDP are busy spreading falsehood in Edo state and making every efforts to discredit the government. They have made efforts to blackmail the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and even obstructed officials of the anti-corruption agency from effecting arrest in Benin city.

“Obaseki and his boys are also plotting to blackmail the judiciary and every institution in the country just to instal his candidate as governor of the state. His threat to burn down the country is real and must be stopped immediately.

“These anarchists and bad losers who cannot wait for the next governorship election must be stoped before they set the country ablaze. The records of Obaseki in promoting violence is fresh in our memories.

“Obaseki’s tenure in office was characterized with chaos, insecurity, and division. Let’s not forget the killing of Inspector Akor, one of the security aides attached to Senator Monday Okpebholo before the election.

“The attack on Senator Matthew Urhoghide under Obaseki’s watch, where thugs attacked the Edo South Senatorial District Senator at the Benin Airport. Rather than condemn the act, Obaseki stood idly by, allowing the breakdown of civility.

“Under his watch, we saw the oppression of political opponents and how Obaseki ordered his predecessor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, to stay out of Edo State without “permission” and boasted about “dealing” with him. Such is the character of the man who threatened to burn down the country, if his candidate does not emerge the winner of the governorship election.

“This dictator must be stopped. His threats to democracy is unbecoming and must be tamed. It was Obaseki who notoriously barred 14 elected House of Assembly members from inauguration, and ruled the state with only six legislators. He also suspended local government chairmen, defying Supreme Court judgments.

“Obaseki is a dictator who breathes only violence and intimidation. His administration violently disrupted Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu’s gubernatorial declaration in 2020 at the Garrick Memorial College and also orchestrated attacks on the Benin Royal Palace during the same period.

“There are several other examples of infractions that Obaseki carried out while in office and outside office – the dictator who ruled with iron-fists, impunity, mismanagement, and intimidation must be stopped forthwith.

“It is time to tame Obaseki and his boys in Edo state, before he sponsors a conflagration across the country. I call on Mr. President and the security agencies to monitor the activities of Obaseki and his boys before they burn down the country. A stitch in time, saves nine”.

The leading All Progressive Congress (APC), Edo State chapter, has taken possession of its party secretariat at 59, Airport Road, Benin City, four years after it was forcefully evicted by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) under the immediate-past state governor, Godwin Obaseki.

APC State Chairman, Emperor Jarrett Tenebe, speaking shortly after the takeover of the party secretariat said the property rightfully belonged to the APC as they had renewed the rent for a period of seven years before the PDP, with the help of Obaseki, forcefully took it from them.

Tenebe said, “About 4 years ago, APC made frantic effort to extend the rent-age of this particular building which has always been the office of the APC. If you search on google, you will discover that this secretariat still reads “APC’s office”. The party in the state approached the national office to arrange so that we will be able to pay for more years for the rentage off this facility. The national obliged us and sent us money to renew it for 7 years.

“The Governor then, Mr Godwin Obaseki decamped to PDP and in a military way, they took us out of this secretariat. Destroyed all our properties, took our vehicles and drove us out of this place.

“At that time, we complained to the Inspector General of Police and he, in his wisdom agreed that we should take over the secretariat. But because the Commissioner of Police in the state was working hand in hand with the then Governor, they refused to allow us access. Then, I was the deputy chairman of APC.”

Speaking further, the party chairman said he came into office with a commitment to reclaim the state and redress all the wrongs done by the PDP and Obaseki.

“The day I became the chairman of the party in the state, I made two promises to our party faithfuls; to make sure that APC take over the state and to ensure that all the properties taken from the APC are returned to them.

“Some few months ago, there was governorship election in this state and everybody can attest to it that Senator Monday Okpebholo emerged as the governor of the state, fulfilling one of the promises I made to our party faithful.

“Today is the happiest day of my life, that I am fulfilling the second promise I made to my party to make sure all the properties taken from APC are returned. That is why we are here today. To take over the secretariat that was forcefully taken from us.”

Officially announcing the takeover of the property, Tenebe said the APC will remodel the building into its official pattern and promised to resist any attempt by any group, or vested interest to displace them from the property, or any of their other properties.

He said, “Today, we have taken over this secretariat. It belongs to us now, we are going to allocate offices today. We have also called the painters to repaint this place to APC color today, because this place rightfully belong to us.

“We are ready to resist anybody that will try to make any noise or try to do anything with everything that we have”, the party chairman concluded.

The Deputy Commissioner for Police in charge of Operations, Ben Abang, accompanied by other senior police officers was also at the newly reclaimed APC Secretariat to get a first hand brief on the reclaiming of the office as he interacted with APC Chairman and other top party executives.

The State PDP chairman, Dr Tony Aziegbemi who was in the premises as at the time of the building takeover was later escorted out of the building by the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has reacted to a trending video insinuating that one Mr. Jonathan Okunbor, a suspect reportedly being investigated for an alleged N6 billion fraud, was an election witness in Edo state.

In a statement on Wednesday by Dele Oyewale, EFCC’s Head, Media & Publicity, the anti-graft agency clarified that the suspect is not a witness of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the election tribunal as claimed by the party’s candidate, Mr. Asue Ighodalo.

“Rather, he (Okunbor) is a prime suspect connected to a case of misappropriation of funds involving all the 18 local government areas of Edo State,” the commission stated.

“Ongoing investigations showed that about N6 billion was diverted to Kezmith Global Ventures owned by Okunbor. The suspect was running the ventures using the name and identity of Mr. Godfrey Emode.

“The Commission’s investigators, in their quest to unearth the shadiness of Ogunbor, arrested Emode who led them to the suspect in Eterno Hotel where a pre-trial meeting was being held.

“Investigators interrogated the counsel to Ighodalo on the status of Okunbor in the election tribunal matters and he clearly stated that he was not a witness in the matter.

“In spite of this, Mr. Ighodalo and his co-travellers at Eterno Hotel prevented EFCC officers from carrying out their constitutional duty and obstructed them from arresting Okunbor.

“Specifically, Ighodalo insisted that Okunbor was his witness when it was obvious that he only wanted to aid his escape from the Commission’s investigators.”

The EFCC says it remains committed to its adherence to the rule of law, noting that the anti-graft agency has no business with any Edo State election witness that has no corruption charge before it.

“The EFCC will not hesitate to bring anyone to trial, witness or no witness, if it has a basis for doing so,” the commission insisted.

EFCC assured that Okunbor will be brought to book soon in connection with the alleged N6 billion fraud involving his firm, Kezmith Global Ventures.

The EFCC is currently investigating the eighteen (18) suspended Local Government Council chairmen in Edo State over alleged financial impropriety.

Okunbor is an official in Orhionmwon, one of the affected councils, and also an ally of the then suspended but now impeached council boss, Newman Ugiagbe.

The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the nomination of membership of the Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOPADEC).

The Governor, in a statement by Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor, also approved the nomination of membership of the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC).

Both nominations came barely 24 hours after the governor on Tuesday approved the immediate dissolution of all the commissions in the state public service.

Full list below

EDSOPADEC:
(i) Francis Osaretin Osabuohien – Chairman
(ii) Felix Osazee — Member
(iii) Linda Aliyu Omonzele — Member
(iv) Princess (Mrs.) Ikuoyemwen Ewuare-Aimiuwu — Member
Edosomwan Kelvin Iredia — Member
(v) Stanley Odidi — Member
(vii) Tony Osazuwa — Member

EDSIEC:
(i) Jonathan Aifuobhokhan — Chairman
(ii) Asein Ojo Victor — Member
(iii) Ighomo Egharevba Thomas — Member
(iv) Imafidon Hope Osarodion — Member
(v) Dr. Suleman Ovuehor Ikhuoria — Member
(vi) Hon. Anthony Aikpoghome — Member
(vii) Umoru Habib Frank — Member
(viii) Aremiyau Aligamhe Momoh — Member

The Edo State House of Assembly, Tuesday, suspended all the Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the 18 Local Government Councils over allegation of ‘misappropriation of funds’.

The decision to suspend the local council administrators was taken during the plenary, after a heated debate by the various lawmakers representing the local councils.

Meanwhile, the heads of the various legislative arm have been directed to oversee the running of the councils for the next two months.