₦airaland Forum

The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the dissolution of Executives of all Boards, Agencies and Parastatals in Edo State Public Service with immediate effect.

The announcement was contained in a statement on Wednesday signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, made available to newsmen in Benin City.

In addition, the governor also relieved the appointments of all Permanent Secretaries appointed from outside the State Public/Civil Service and all Political Appointees.

The Governor, therefore, directed all affected appointees to handover all Government properties in their possession to the most senior Public Officer in their respective Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

https://metrowatchonline.com/breaking-okpebholo-dissolves-all-boards-parastatals-in-edo-sacks-political-perm-secs-aides/

Lala Seun Mynd44

The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered for the immediate and indefinite suspension of collection of all revenues in Edo, especially in motor parks and others, until further notice.

In a statement on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Okpebholo also ordered the State Commissioner of Police to arrest anyone who flouts the order.

The Governor said he will review the issues surrounding the collections soon and decide on the way forward.

“The collection of revenues in the State has been suspended indefinitely. Anyone seen collecting revenues on behalf of the State Government will be arrested, the governor said.

“The Commissioner of Police is hereby ordered to arrest anyone who flouts the order and collects any kind of revenues on behalf of the State Government.

“The Governor will soon address the issues and concerns raised. He will issue new directives soon. Until then, no one is authorised to collect revenues on behalf of the State Government,” the statement added.

The Edo State Governor-Elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has asked the outgoing Governor of the State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, to seek urgent psychiatric attention, following his recent utterances and public displays.

In a statement made available to journalists on Sunday and signed by Godspower Inegbe, his media aide, Okpebholo said Edo people are worried by Obaseki’s reckless statements and urged him to evaluate his state of mind.

The Governor-Elect, in the statement, also raised the alarm regarding the whereabouts of Governor Obaseki, who on Friday reportedly fled Benin City, the Edo State capital, using a ‘disguised’ bus.

Okpebholo claimed that Obaseki chased out everyone from the Government House on Friday before escaping to a yet-to-be known location more than 72 hours before his official departure from office.

Obaseki, on Friday claimed that Okpebholo did not invite him to his inauguration slated for Tuesday, November 12, and that the Governor-Elect had earmarked N5 billion for the inauguration. He also claimed without proof that Okpebholo has a “stolen mandate.”

Reacting, the Governor-Elect said Governor Obaseki is making the false claims to shift attention away from his sinister plans to leave the country through the land borders.

The statement reads in part, “As of Friday, 8th of November, the whereabout of Obaseki is unknown. He has chased everyone out of Edo State Government House. He has abandoned governance in the State, and he is on the run.

“He has escaped through the road out of Benin. He did not pass through the airport. If he is as popular as he claims, why did he not use the airport to escape? Instead, he hired a bus and disguised while escaping from Edo State.

“Obaseki is trying to push out these narratives in order to distract the public. His antics will not work. We know his plans, and we will continue to expose his shenanigans to Edo people.

“Out-going Governor Godwin Obaseki needs serious and urgent psychiatric attention to evaluate his state of mind. His recent utterances and public displays should get Edo sons and daughters worried.

“In his latest diatribe, Obaseki, who has supervised one of the biggest financial heist and misappropriated resources of Edo state, is again engaging in his usual beer parlour talks.

“According to the unpopular outgoing governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo stole the mandate freely given to him by Edo people. In his usual myopic mind, he wants to change the narratives and set a dangerous precedence,” Okpebholo added.

The Governor-Elect insisted that he won the September 21 election convincingly and added that the tribunal will soon validate his claims. He said Obaseki would not get away with the reckless claims.

“Obaseki will not get away with this misrepresentation. Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Governor-Elect of Edo State, won the 21st September governorship election in Edo State.

“Obaseki is still licking his wound of defeat and is yet to accept the reality. Edo people, through the ballot, rejected the planned continuation of Obaseki’s satanic government through his glorified stooge, Asue Ighodalo.”

Okpebholo said Obaseki is trying to influence the outcome of the ongoing case at the tribunal by making false claims. He said the attempt will fail like a pack of cards.

He said: “The Peoples Democratic Party is already challenging the outcome of the election in court. We are therefore worried that Obaseki is in a hurry to pre-empt the outcome of the tribunal by repeatedly making false claims.

“Unfortunately for Obaseki, his baseless claims will not stand. The Peoples Democratic Party and its candidate, Ighodalo, have no case against Senator Okpebholo. The tribunal will soon confirm that.”

He warned Obaseki to desist from making false claims and reminded him of severe consequences that may follow if he does not stop.

Senator Okpebholo reminded Obaseki that he will soon lose his immunity and will therefore be forced to face the full wrath of the law if he does not retrace his steps.

“Although Senator Okpebholo is a man of peace, we will not sit back and allow him to keep misrepresenting the true outcome of what happened on the 21st of September.

“Obaseki will soon lose his immunity and if he continues to make his baseless claims, he will face the full wrath of the law very soon and he will prove his unfounded allegations when he is dragged to court,” Okpebholo warned.

Reacting to another claim by Obaseki that he was not invited to attend the inauguration slated for next Tuesday, Okpebholo described it as laughable, absurd, and questionable.

He said that since he won the election, Obaseki has employed every means to frustrate a peaceful transfer of power. The Governor-elect noted that Obaseki has not extended any invitation to him for a meeting or a tour of the Government House.

“Again, Obaseki also claimed that Senator Okpebholo did not invite him to the inauguration, slated for next Tuesday. This is laughable, absurd, and questionable. Since Senator Okpebholo was declared winner, Obaseki has employed every means to frustrate a peaceful transfer of power.

“As a sitting Governor, Obaseki should tell Edo people and Nigerians if he has ever invited the Governor-Elect, Senator Okpebholo to Government House for a meeting or a tour as a responsible man. Has Obaseki called Senator Okpebholo to congratulate him since he won the election?

“Obaseki should cover his face in shame, account for the billions he has misappropriated, and apologise to Edo people for under-developing the State in the last eight years.

“We urge Edo people to disregard Obaseki’s reckless statements and support the incoming administration of Senator Okpebholo to remedy the many wrongs of this government,” the statement concluded.

The National Female Students Association of Nigeria (NFSAN), has congratulated Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim on her appointment as the Minister of Women’s Affairs.

In a statement by the President, Comrade Choice Uchenna Enebeli, NFSAN expressed delight “to see a committed and passionate advocate for women’s rights appointed to this important position.”

“We are confident that Hon. Sulaiman-Ibrahim’s experience and dedication will bring about positive change for women across Nigeria”, the statement added.

The female students’ national body, however, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu “for appointing such a capable and inspiring leader to this important post.”

“As an organization dedicated to the welfare and rights of female students in Nigeria, NFSAN looks forward to working with Hon. Sulaiman-Ibrahim to address the unique challenges faced by women and girls in education and beyond.

“We encourage the Hon. Minister to keep the needs and rights of female students at the forefront of her ministry’s agenda and to continue her important work in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment in Nigeria.

“NFSAN stands ready to support and collaborate with the ministry in any way we can to ensure that every woman in Nigeria has the opportunity to reach her full potential”, the statement concluded.

Your Excellencies,
The Incoming Governor of Edo State,
APC Leadership,
Edo State.

Dear Esteemed Leaders,

As we stand on the threshold of a new dawn in Edo State, our heartbeat echoes with hope. Among the champions of this transformation, a name resonates with so much admiration, Hon Donald Okogbe. Representing Akoko-Edo Constituency II.

Donald's selfless journey has inspired a generation. His fidelity to Edo State's progress has earned him the affection of his people.

We, the people of Akoko-Edo, write to humbly appeal for consideration of our beloved Local Government Area for the speakership position of the Edo State House of Assembly. We firmly believe that Hon Donald Okogbe is that ideal candidate for this role.

Our Local Government Area has consistently demonstrated loyalty and dedication to the party. We have always been a stronghold of the party, and our people have worked tirelessly to ensure its success. By considering Akoko-Edo for the speakership position, you will be rewarding our love and commitment and strengthening the party's unity.

Donald's exceptional leadership personality and initiatives to success, make him a seasoned politician. As a former commissioner in Edo State and current representative of Akoko-Edo Constituency II, he possesses the necessary experience and expertise to effectively lead the House of Assembly. His leadership adroitness, dexterity, integrity, and passion for development make him an outstanding choice.

Through trials and tribulations, Donald's resolve remains unshaken, a light guiding his constituents. With integrity as his compass, Donald navigates the complexities of politics, always prioritizing the people's interests. The people see in him a leader who embodies their aspirations.

As Edo State transitions to a new governance system, Donald's leadership prowess should be a priority. His ability to unite and inspire is invaluable. With Donald at the helm, the legislature will pulse with life, and Edo State will flourish.

As Speaker, Donald Okogbe will utilize his position to better the lives of Edo people through various initiatives. He will prioritize bills and resolutions that promote economic growth, entrepreneurship, and job opportunities for the youth, ensuring a brighter future for Edo State.

Donald Okogbe will champion projects that improve roads, healthcare facilities, education, and other critical infrastructure, enhancing the quality of life for all Edo residents. With his proven track record of integrity, he will ensure transparency and accountability in governance, guaranteeing that resources are utilized efficiently for the benefit of the people.

We, the people of Akoko-Edo, are confident that Hon. Donald Okogbe will excel as Speaker, working tirelessly to improve the lives of Edo people. We urge you to consider our plea and give our son the opportunity to serve the state with distinction. Together, let's work towards a brighter future for Edo State.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Concerned People of Akoko-Edo.

29th October, 2024

Press Release

Ondo 2024: Diaspora Friends for Monday and Dennis congratulates members on appointment

The Diaspora Friends for Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa congratulate our esteemed members on their well-deserved appointment into the 2024 Ondo State Governorship National Campaign Council for the All Progressives Congress.

The appointees include:
1. Ambassador Western Iyamu, Coordinator
2. Hon. Omorede Osifo, Co-Coordinator
3. Hon. Bunmi Oriniowo
4. Hon. Chief (Mrs) Olumide Talabi.

We celebrate your dedication, tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to our great party, the APC. Your appointments are a testament to your exceptional leadership, strategic thinking and contributions to the party.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress for recognizing the value, potential and excellence of our members. Your trust in them is well-placed, and we are confident they will excel in their new roles, driving success for the campaign.

We wish Amb. Iyamu, Hon. Osifo, Hon. Oriniowo and Chief Talabi tremendous success, wisdom and energy as they embark on this new journey. May your expertise, passion and leadership continue to drive victory, growth and development for the party.

As Diaspora Friends, we reaffirm our unwavering support for the APC and pledge to work tirelessly alongside our appointed members to ensure a resounding success for our party and candidate, His Excellency, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the Ondo State governorship election.

(Media & Publicity)
Diaspora Friends

The Western Iyamu Global Foundation, has congratulated Prof. Edoba Bright Omoregie, SAN, on his “well-deserved appointment” as the 11th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin (UNIBEN).

In a statement on Tuesday, the group eulogized Omoregie’s “exceptional academic distinction, outstanding leadership qualities and remarkable achievements, making him an exemplary figure in the academic community.”

The statement reads in part, “His appointment underscores his commitment to excellence and dedication to the advancement of education.

“On behalf of our Leader and Supremo, Amb. Western Iyamu, and Westerners worldwide, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Professor Omoregie as he assumes this noble role.

“May his tenure be marked by unprecedented success, innovation and prosperity for the prestigious University of Benin.”

The Westerners Group expressed confidence that, under Prof. Omoregie’s leadership, the University of Benin will soar to greater heights.

“The Western Iyamu Global Foundation offers its support and partnership to UNIBEN in promoting educational excellence and community development initiatives under Professor Omoregie,” the statement added.

https://metrowatchonline.com/western-iyamu-congratulates-prof-omorogie-on-appointment-as-uniben-new-vc/?amp=1

The University of Benin (UNIBEN), Benin City, Edo State, has named Professor Edoba Bright Omorogie, SAN as its new Vice-Chancellor.

He emerged on Friday after the weeks-long rigorous process which saw several professors contest the plum position, CAMPUS GIST reports.

Omoregie is a Professor of Comparative Constitutional Law and Legislative Governance. He is also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1992. He received his legal education at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) and at the Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island, Lagos.

He has been a lecturer in the Faculty of Law, University of Benin since January 1998 till date. Professor Omoregie possesses PhD in Comparative Constitutional Law, specializing in Federalism and Governance. He has taught Legislative Drafting and Process, Legislative Studies and Electoral Legal and Regulatory Framework for over 10 years at the postgraduate level in the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) under the UNIBEN/NILDS Postgraduate Programmes.

Professor Omoregie is the Ag. Director of the Department of Legislative Support Services in the Institute on National Assignment (leave of absence) from the University of Benin. He has occupied the position since October, 2019.

His publications have appeared in numerous academics platforms both in and outside Nigeria. He is a member of the International Bar Association, Commonwealth Association of Legislative Counsel, the International Association of Legislation and the Federal Union, among several other international academic bodies.

He is widely travelled and happily married with children.

The new Vice Chancellor will take over from the outgoing VC, Professor Lilian Salami, whose five-year tenure comes to an end on December 2nd, 2024, reports CAMPUS GIST.

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja on Thursday granted an order directing the imposed Edo deputy governor by Governor Godwin Obaseki to appear before it on 4th November, 2024 or face imprisonment.

Granting the motion ex parte on form 49, in a suit filed by the reinstated Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, Justice Omotosho said Marvelous Omobayo should be served the order through Edo State Government House.

He further directed that failure for him to appear before the court on the stated date, he will be sentenced to prison.

Obaseki had on Monday inaugurated five new members of the state's Civil Service Commission, following their screening and confirmation by the Edo State House of Assembly.

The members of the Commission include Iguodala Aluyi who serves as Chairman, with Ehi Obaseki, Gilbert Adegboyega, Julie Olatunji, and Margaret Ohiowele as members.

The Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, has publicly disassociated himself and his office from Governor Godwin Obaseki's recent inauguration of new Chairman and Members of the Edo State Civil Service Commission.

With barely 27 days left in their tenure, Shaibu, in a statement he personally signed, on Wednesday, said he finds it appalling that Obaseki made such fresh moves, especially after failing to utilize the last Civil Service Commission.

The deputy governor revealed that private consultants have been handling activities that should fall under the Commission's purview, such as appointments into the state's civil and public service.

He claimed that the individual screened by the Edo State House of Assembly for the Chairman position lacks the basic qualifications and does not meet the criteria for the role, while questioning the integrity of the process.

Shaibu also condemned Obaseki's alleged “clandestine appointments into the state civil and public service, made hastily after the last election, with reports indicating backdated appointments.”

He warned the purported appointees to exercise extreme caution, noting that these appointments undermine due process, transparency, and good governance.

Shaibu, however, reiterated his commitment to upholding the law and protecting Edo State's interest until the last day in office.

The deputy governor, therefore, urged all stakeholders to reconsider their positions and uphold legality and accountability in their dealings.

By Ogochukwu Isioma

Member representing Akoko-Edo II Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Donald Okogbe, has formally resumed plenary at the state legislature.

Recall that the former Commissioner was on May 6 suspended for five months alongside other lawmakers by the speaker. The suspension was, however, lifted on October 2.

Taking to his official Facebook page to announce his resumption, Hon. Okogbe said he participated in Monday’s plenary with his colleagues “after the five-month hiatus from the stage legislature.”

“I am thrilled to be back, rejoining my colleagues in the vital business of lawmaking and quality representation for the wonderful people of Akoko-Edo II Constituency,” he said.

Earlier on at plenary, Hon. Okogbe moved a motion calling the attention of the Speaker to the “alarmingly dilapidating state” of the recently constructed Sobe/Sabongida-Ora Road, which he described as ”pressing.”

Commissioned just months ago in August by the outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki, Hon. Okogbe explained that “the road has shockingly begun to deteriorate, marred by pot-holes and clear signs of structural weakness.”

He, therefore, urged the Speaker, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku to summon the contractors and the Permanent Secretary to provide urgent explanations for the “unacceptable situation.”

The lawmaker, however, rededicated himself to service, saying, “To my constituents, I assure you — your son is back, and I will continue to champion your causes with renewed vigor. Together, let’s drive progress and development in our beloved constituency.”

https://metrowatchonline.com/edo-assembly-okogbe-resumes-raises-alarm-over-sobe-sabongida-ora-road/?amp=1

Lala Seun Mynd44

...demands action from AU, CAF

Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, has condemned in the strongest terms, the poor attitude of Libya authorities to receiving a Nigerian contingent into their country ahead of the Match Day 4 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers on Tuesday.

The arrangement Nigeria Football Federation had with the Libya Football Federation was to have the Super Eagles land in Benghazi which is a few minutes drive to the Benina Stadium.

But the flight from Nigeria was suddenly diverted to Abraq airport, which is almost four-hour drive to Benghazi. In a short video shared by the NFF, Super Eagles players were seen stranded at the airport waiting for immigration to pass them into their country.

After 12 hours of waiting, the Libyans seem to have achieved their aims at frustrating the Nigerian contingent as the NFF has now decided to fly the Super Eagles back to Nigeria after players unanimously agreed not to play against Libya under harsh condition

Reacting to the ugly incident, Shaibu condemned, in totality, the attitude of the Libyan government and the treatment meted out to the Super Eagles.

The Deputy Governor said this action isn't helpful to grow the continent's football and country's relationship.

"This is but a game of football — does Libya need more than 3 points? Subjecting the team and delegates to this harsh condition is an act of terrorism that they should be ashamed of because I don't know what they would say if anything happend to these boys.

"This is a game scheduled for tomorrow, and by now, the boys haven't passed the security check to begin another 4-hour-plus journey to Benina, where the match is scheduled to be played.

"This is a big slap on CAF and the African Union if this is done to an African country by another African country.

"I'm calling on the African Union and CAF, to act and put an end to these acts of terrorism that could jeopardize the growth of football in the continent and lead to disunity".

The Libya/Super Eagles incident adds to the recent history of complaints about poor treatment in Libya, with Rwanda also reporting unfavourable conditions during an AFCON qualifier last month.

The Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, has warned Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to protect government properties from looting by outgoing political appointees.

Shaibu gave the warning in a statement he personally signed, titled: 'Warning to Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies', issued on Friday and made available to newsmen by his Special Assistant (New Media), Ogochukwu Isioma.

This comes as the transition of power looms in the state. The outgoing Godwin Obaseki-led administration, sworn-in November 12, 2020 will formally come to a close midnight 11th November, 2024 transiting power to the incoming government November 12.

As the administration prepares for transition and handover, the Deputy Governor warned that Permanent Secretaries and heads of MDAs would be held accountable by the incoming administration for any assets missing under their watch.

Shaibu warned that removing government properties is a crime and urged all political appointees to desist from such actions, noting that Permanent Secretaries and Directors of MDAs are responsible for safeguarding government properties, and failure to do so will lead to consequences.

Read the statement below;

[/color]WARNING TO PERMANENT SECRETARIES, HEADS OF MINISTRIES, DEPARTMENTS, AND AGENCIES

As our administration ends in a few weeks, I have issued a stern warning to Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to guard against the looting of government properties by political appointees, as they would be held accountable by the incoming administration for any assets missing under their watch.

The Permanent Secretaries and Directors must know that it is their responsibility to protect the properties because these political aides (Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff, Commissioners, Special Advisers/Assistants, and Senior Special Advisers/Assistants) are government appointees who are also leaving on November 11.

So, the failure of Permanent Secretaries and heads of these MDAs to act means they will be held responsible for giving an account of their inventories. Removing fixed items and government properties is a crime and unacceptable.

Permanent Secretaries and heads of MDAs should, therefore, guard against such criminality or face consequences. All political appointees must equally desist from such actions, which may land them in trouble.

Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu
Deputy Governor, Edo State
4th October, 2024[color=#990000]