₦airaland Forum

Love was in the air for a Nigerian man, Egwu Benjamin Lotanna, who decided he didn’t want to wait any longer and would propose to the love of his life, Vivian Claire, mid-air, on an Air Peace flight.

Lotanna, a former President of the University of Benin Students’ Union Government, popped the question to his longtime lover on Friday, during a flight from Benin City to Lagos State.

In a video obtained by METROWATCHXTRA.COM, While Claire was already seated on the aircraft, Lotanna got in position in the plane aisle with a flower and special ring in hand.

Passengers also teamed up to help him by holding up the, “Will You Marry Me?” sign, while the shout of “Say Yes!” rented the air.

Others held up their cellphone cameras expectantly to capture the beautiful moment as it unfolded.

The bride-to-be appeared stunned, placing both palms over her mouth, covering her eyes in tears.

Once Claire stood up, Lotanna was already on one knee, holding up a flower and open ring box.

He didn’t need to say more as Claire took in the scene, and quickly screamed, “Yes!”.

After Lotanna placed the ring on her finger, they embraced, and their fellow passengers cheered and clapped for the couple as they took their seats.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with METROWATCHXTRA.COM, Lotanna said it took the whole Cabin crew of the Aircraft to plan the surprise proposal for his girlfriend.

The Anambra-born former UNIBEN Students’ Union leader thanked the Air Peace crew members and the Airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Sir Allen Onyema for their support.

Management of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) has suspended a Student Activist, Comrade Obinna Ezechukwu and set up a Panel of Inquiry to probe into the activities of the former student, throughout his stay in the University, METROWATCH can authoritatively report.

Ezechukwu, a fresh graduate of Political Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, is being investigated by the UNIBEN management over an article he authored recently, after the University increased her school fees for new students by over a 100 per cent.

“UNIBEN got an annual allocation of N19.53b for 2023. Can the Management be bold enough to open their book and tell the public what these funds were used for so we can take away the doubts that these funds are not enough? Transparency helps a lot,” one of the now-deleted post on Twitter read.

It was gathered that Ezechukwu’s graduation from the University of Benin was put on hold by the UNIBEN management over the article which the University’s top officials say is “critical” of the Salami-led administration.

The Management had allegedly expunged Obinna’s name from the University’s Graduation List over the article, which forced him to miss the compulsory one-year National Youth Service after the Institution failed to mobilise him.

Meanwhile, it was gathered that Ezechukwu who is yet to be officially briefed of his alleged offence, has been formally invited to appear before the Panel on Monday, July 24 at the University’s Senate Chambers by 10:00AM.

A copy of the invitation letter addressed to Obinna and obtained by METROWATCH, dated 20th July, 2023 was signed by Barr (Mrs) Juliet I. Osawemwenze, Secretary of the Panel, under the Office of the Registrar.

“You are invited to appear before the Panel of Inquiry set up by the Vie (sic) Chancellor in relation to the case you have with the School Authority,” the letter read in part, warning that, “failure to appear may attract indefinite suspension.”

Membership of the Panel has been shrouded in secrecy, even as Management has kept mum on the matter. It is not immediately clear if any Students’ Representative would be sitting on the Panel.

Efforts to obtain comment from the Institution’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Mrs Benedicta Adeola Ehanire and the Dean of Students’ Affairs (DSA), Prof. Clement Ighodaro proved abortive.

However, students of the Institution have kicked against the move by Management to sanction one of their colleagues over what they described as attempt to suppress and gag freedom of speech and information.

immortalcrown:
Before I call this dictatorship, I have some questions.

Does the article give false information about the school? If yes, the school is right. But if the article contains only truth about the school, the school is run by shameless idiots.

Management of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) has suspended a Student Activist, Comrade Obinna Ezechukwu and set up a Panel of Inquiry to probe into the activities of the former student, throughout his stay in the University.

Ezechukwu, a fresh graduate of Political Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, is being investigated by the UNIBEN management over an article he authored recently, after the University increased her school fees for new students by over a 100 per cent.

“UNIBEN got an annual allocation of N19.53b for 2023. Can the Management be bold enough to open their book and tell the public what these funds were used for so we can take away the doubts that these funds are not enough? Transparency helps a lot,” one of the now-deleted post on Twitter read.

It was gathered that Ezechukwu’s graduation from the University of Benin was put on hold by the UNIBEN management over the article which the University’s top officials say is “critical” of the Salami-led administration.

The Management had allegedly expunged Obinna’s name from the University’s Graduation List over the article, which forced him to miss the compulsory one-year National Youth Service after the Institution failed to mobilise him.

Meanwhile, it was gathered that Ezechukwu who is yet to be officially briefed of his alleged offence, has been formally invited to appear before the Panel on Monday, July 24 at the University’s Senate Chambers by 10:00AM.

A copy of the invitation letter addressed to Obinna and obtained by METROWATCHXTRA.COM, dated 20th July, 2023 was signed by Barr (Mrs) Juliet I. Osawemwenze, Secretary of the Panel, under the Office of the Registrar.

“You are invited to appear before the Panel of Inquiry set up by the Vie (sic) Chancellor in relation to the case you have with the School Authority,” the letter read in part, warning that, “failure to appear may attract indefinite suspension.”

Membership of the Panel has been shrouded in secrecy, even as Management has kept mum on the matter. It is not immediately clear if any Students’ Representative would be sitting on the Panel.

Efforts to obtain comment from the Institution’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Mrs Benedicta Adeola Ehanire and the Dean of Students’ Affairs (DSA), Prof. Clement Ighodaro proved abortive.

However, students of the Institution have kicked against the move by Management to sanction one of their colleagues over what they described as attempt to suppress and gag freedom of speech and information.

A former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Marcus Onobun, has been involved in an auto crash on his way to Abuja, METROWATCH has learnt.

It was reliably gathered that Onobun, who is the immediate-past Speaker of the Edo Assembly, was travelling from Benin to Abuja, on Wednesday, after missing his flight, when the accident happened.

The accident reportedly occurred around Ekpoma where the former speaker hails from, along the dilapidated Ekpoma-Abuja highway, after the vehicle he was travelling in fell into a ditch and somersaulted multiple times.

Onobun was rushed to an undisclosed hospital for treatment by aides and sympathisers who came to the scene of the accident.

The wreckage of the lawmaker’s vehicle, a dark-brown Mitsubishi SUV, showed a detached airbag system, a shattered windshield and a disfigured roof.

An aide of the lawmaker, who craved anonymity as he was not permitted to speak with journalists, confirmed that his principal is in “critical condition.”

The aide, however, expressed optimism that the former speaker would make a full recovery as assured by his doctors.

Onobun recently won election to represent Esan West/Esan Central and Igueben Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He was the Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly from 2020 until he was elected to the House of Representatives during the 2023 general elections.

The Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu, has congratulated Mr. Peter Obi on his 62nd birthday anniversary, describing the 2023 Labour Party (LP) Presidential Candidate as a “beacon of hope.”

In a statement on Wednesday which he personally signed, Shaibu acknowledged Mr. Obi’s “outstanding contributions” to nation building, adding that the former Anambra governor have been an inspiration to many.

He said, “I extend my warmest congratulations to Mr. Peter Obi as you celebrate your 62nd birthday today. It gives me immense pleasure to acknowledge your remarkable journey and the outstanding contributions you have made to our nation.

“Your unwavering dedication and selfless service to the Nigerian people have left an indelible mark on our society. Throughout your political career, you have consistently shown a deep commitment to the welfare and progress of our dear country. Your astute leadership, coupled with your sound economic expertise, has played a pivotal role in shaping our nation’s development.

“You have been a beacon of hope and inspiration to many, and your passion for good governance has set a standard that continues to guide us. Your tireless efforts in championing policy reforms and advocating for socioeconomic progress have not gone unnoticed. Your visionary approach to governance has significantly impacted the lives of ordinary Nigerians, particularly in the areas of education, job creation, and youth empowerment.

“On this special day, I join millions of Nigerians in wishing you good health, joy, and many more years of impactful service. May your wisdom and counsel continue to guide us as we strive to build a prosperous and inclusive Nigeria.

“Once again, happy 62nd birthday to you sir!”.

By Ogochukwu Isioma

The Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu has been conferred with the prestigious ‘Special Achievement and Recognition’ Award on Sports Development by the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA).

The award was presented to Comrade Shaibu at the NOA’s Summit, Award and Gala Night held on Thursday at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, in recognition of his contributions to sports development, particularly football in Nigeria.

Shaibu was also honoured for delivering effective, sound, and excellent developmental sports’ policy programmes of the Governor Godwin Obaseki led-administration that have positioned the state’s sports’ sector on the path of sustainable development.

Receiving the award, Comrade Shaibu thanked the organizers; the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, whom he described as his elder brother; and the good people of Edo State for their support which he said made the NOA’s recognition possible.

“It is truly an honour to be recognized by such a distinguished association and to stand amongst the remarkable personalities who have represented our great nation on the global stage,” the visibly elated Edo Deputy Governor declared.

“Special thanks to my principal and elder brother, the capacity ‘Wake and See’ Governor Godwin Obaseki for allowing me the opportunity to manage sports in the state. Without the platform, I would not have done what I did to have deserved this honour.

“I accept this award not only on my behalf but on behalf of all the athletes who have dedicated their lives to representing Nigeria with pride and honour,” Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu added.

Shaibu thanked the NOA for bestowing the incredible honour on him, saying, “This recognition not only reflects my achievements but also acknowledges the collective efforts of countless individuals who have supported me so far in these incredible journeys.”

“I also commend and appreciate the team that has been working with me to take the state to where it is today. I would also like to express my gratitude to the people of Edo State for their unyielding support and belief in my abilities.”

Shaibu declared that he was committed to using his platform to promote sports development and empower young athletes, adding, “It is with deep pride that I serve as the Deputy Governor of this great state.”

“This award serves as a testament to the progress we have made in our collective pursuit of sporting excellence in Edo State,” the Deputy Governor further noted.

He reiterated his commitment to working tirelessly to promote sports at all levels and to provide opportunities for every aspiring athlete to fulfil their potential.

“Let us continue to inspire the next generation of athletes, empower our communities, and build a nation that thrives on the values of sportsmanship, determination, and unity,” Shaibu charged.

The colourful event was graced by the Deputy Governor’s sports’ family, friends, political associates as well as some government functionaries and aides in the Deputy Governor’s Office.

Dubbed “the sports-loving Deputy Governor”, Shaibu is a recipient of various sport-related awards by several credible sports organisations and professional bodies, in recognition of his sterling performances and contributions to sports development.

Under Shaibu’s watch, Bendel Insurance Football Club (FC) of Edo recently qualified for next season’s CAF Confederation Cup after defeating Rangers International Football Club (FC) of Enugu one nil to lift their 4th FA Cup after 43 years.

…queries poor-performing Ministries, agencies

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has directed that all revenue collection functions of the Government will now come under the direct supervision of the Governor’s Office.

In a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie, the governor said a review of the state’s revenue-to-date showed that the state government’s earnings fell under the N30bn target.

According to Osagie, “At the end of the month of June, 2023, the Governor’s Office reviewed the year-to-date revenue status of the government, showing that earnings fell under the N30bn target.

“On account of that, the governor has queried all Permanent Secretaries and Heads of revenue generating agencies within government, including the Local Government Areas (LGAs), who have not met their mid-year target.

“He has ordered that they are now to come under the direct supervision of the Governor’s Office to ensure the attainment of the N62b target at the end of the year.”

The Edo State government had last month threatened to probe, arrest and dismiss any head of local government administration (HOLGA) or council personnel involved in shady deals, resulting in the declining internally generated revenue (IGR).

Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu, at a meeting with the HOLGAs and local government liaison officers, described as criminal, the generation of paltry sum of N3 million revenue in one month by administrators of the 18 local governments in the state.

The Deputy Governor revealed that while Egor local government generated the sum of N1 million, the other 17 local councils jointly turned in N2 million, a situation he described as unacceptable to the government.

“Only incompetence, abuse of office, lack of accountability and truancy, among others, can result in the 18 local government councils generating a paltry sum of N3 million monthly as internally generated revenue”, he said.

“We will invite EFCC to investigate your activities for the period under review and whoever that is culpable of any mismanagement be sacked, arrested and be made to face prosecution in a competent court of jurisdiction,” Shaibu added.

The Edo State Government House, Benin City; state secretariat complex, hospitals and other government buildings and establishments connected to the Ossisomo Power Plant, Ologbo are currently witnessing a complete darkness, METROWATCH can authoritatively report.

Checks by this Online Medium on Thursday revealed that some of these structures located within the Government Reservation Area (GRA), Sapele Road and Ring road axis in the Benin City metropolis, are without power supply owing to the alleged disruption in the Plant’s daily operation.

Though it was not immediately clear what could be responsible for the development. However, a government official who craved anonymity for fear of being reprimanded, told METROWATCH that the development was a result of the alleged disruption of gas supply to the power plant.

“We were told the fault is from Ossisomo, I think they have run out of gas supply which resulted in the disruption of power supply. As we speak, there is no light in my office. I had to visit the (public) cafe to print a document for my principal,” the official told METROWATCH.

When this Reporter visited the popular “Palm House”, the state ministries’ headquarters, it was observed that the buildings were without power. Similarly, the situation was the same at the government house. It was observed that only a few offices managed to run on diesel-powered generating sets.

As at the time of filing this report, the Ossisomo Power Company was yet to formally react to the development. The Managing Director, Ossisomo Power, Dr. Uwa Igiehon, could not be immediately reached for comment. Also, the functioning Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Electricity, Engr. Victor Osagbouwa Obanor, declined comment.

The CCETC-Ossiomo Independent Power Plant (IPP) which provides 22-24/7 stable power supply to its consumers, is currently a 95MW power generation and distribution company midwifed by a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) between the Edo State Government and the private power firm.

The power plant located at Ologbo, Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, provides power to over 21 private companies including the Benin Industrial and Enterprise Park, Emotan Garden Estates, Edo Tech Park, the 5500bpd Edo Modular Refinery, John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy, Edo Creative Hub, as well as the state’s street lighting project.

Others include the Benin Owena River Basin Development Authority, Edo Production Centre, Phil Hallmark Supermarkets, Nigeria Observer Premises, NUJ Secretariat, Benin Club and Golf Course, University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Constantial Hotel, Lily Hospitals, the Benin Airport, Westview Hotels, among others.

Governor Godwin Obaseki had announced that the failure of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) to ensure steady power supply to Edo people led to the establishment of the Ossisomo power plant to liberate the people from darkness.

The Governor had last year lamented that over $1.9 million was lost within five days due to disruption of gas supply to the Ossiomo Power Plant after someone allegedly switched off the gas station, leaving the plant with no gas to power the system.

“The inability of the plant to supply electricity to the people is causing Nigeria to lose over $1.9million. We are losing revenue and nobody cares about that. Instead, they are just sitting in Abuja doing nothing about it”, Obaseki said.

The Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu will today be conferred with yet another award in sports, the ‘Special Achievements and Recognition Award’, by the Nigeria Olympic Association (NOA).

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Comrade Ebomhiana Musa, noted that the award is in recognition of Shaibu's contributions to sports development, particularly football in Nigeria.

According to the CPS, the Deputy Governor will be formally decorated on Thursday (today) at the NOA's Award and Gala Night ceremony taking place at the prestigious Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre, Abuja, at 6pm.

“A letter to the Deputy Governor, dated May 25, 2023, conveying the award and signed by the General Secretary of NOA, says it was in recognition of his contributions and achievements to sports development in Nigeria,” the CPS explained.

In his acceptance letter, the Deputy Governor was quoted as saying: “My decision to accept the award is predicated on the credibility and core values your highly esteemed association represents in promoting sports excellence in Nigeria.”

Shaibu, dubbed “the sports-loving Deputy Governor”, is a recipient of various sport-related awards by several credible sports organisations and professional bodies, in recognition of his sterling performances and contributions to sports development.

For instance, under Shaibu's tutelage, Bendel Insurance Football Club of Edo recently qualified for next season’s CAF Confederation Cup after defeating Rangers International Football Club of Enugu one nil to lift their 4th FA Cup after 43 years.

...as Shaibu hails Local Govt Heads over revenue boost

The Edo State Government, on Tuesday, announced the constitution of the state Revenue Monitoring Team, a key component of revenue enforcement in the state.

Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu announced this at the monthly Revenue Review Meeting with the Heads of the 18 Local Government Areas in the state, which he presided over at the Government House, Benin City.

He said the revenue monitoring team was set up to eliminate any form of compromise in the revenue collection system, while calling for a sustained synergy between the revenue collectors and the enforcers.

The Deputy Governor commended the Local Government Councils’ heads for the “great improvement” recorded in the state’s revenue generation in recent time.

Shaibu, who noted that though the state was yet to reach her set target, however, praised the Heads who he recently publicly criticized over the poor revenue generation recorded in the past month.

The deputy governor said, as a sensible government, there was no plan to increase tax in the state, “but the rates we have agreed on should be collected and remitted to government coffers.”

Shaibu explained that revenues were important to the present administration to fulfil its electioneering promises including the provision of basic amenities such as good roads, good health care, portable water, electricity, and schools for the people.

He revealed that the state government recently effected the arrest of individuals who were engaged in illegal printing of revenue tickets, vowing that the state government would prosecute the suspects.

While commending the local government heads for the various roles they play, Shaibu vowed that the state government would stop at nothing to deal with miscreants who have been using the government’s name to extort people.

He said the state government has also agreed to put in place a reward system for improvement which will serve as motivation for others and will be done in collaboration with the Nigerian Union of Local Governments Employers (NULGE).

The President of the World Medical Association (WMA), Dr. Osahon Enabulele, has congratulated Sir Ian Gilmore on his emergence and inauguration as President of the British Medical Association (BMA).

Enabulele congratulated Gilmore while speaking on his attendance at the Annual Representative Meeting (ARM) of the BMA which was held in Liverpool, United Kingdom, from July 3-5, 2023.

The WMA President commended the immediate past President of the BMA, Prof. Martin Mckee, for leading an impactful tenure, and urged the new BMA President to work very hard to sustain and improve upon the achievements recorded by his predecessor in office.

Enabulele assured BMA of the sustained support of the WMA under his watch, while looking forward to the continued contributions of the BMA to the affairs of the WMA, including their participation at the forthcoming WMA General Assembly (GA) billed to hold in Kigali, Rwanda.

The WMA President also used the opportunity to urge the British Government to embrace the far-reaching resolutions taken at the BMA ARM, particularly as it concerns the welfare, working conditions, safety, and professional career of physicians and other health professionals, the state of the National Health Service, and the overall quality of health care delivered to the people.

Enabulele particularly urged the British Government to partner more with the BMA to address existing challenges, such as health inequities and the delivery of equitable and improved healthcare services to the people, with improved health outcomes.

The Annual Representative Meeting (ARM) of the British Medical Association (BMA) is the highest decision-making body of the BMA, and holds annually to address issues pertaining to the organization and the UK health system, amongst many other issues.

This year’s BMA ARM witnessed the participation of many representatives and invited guests. It also coincided with the 75th Anniversary of the National Health Service.

OPINION | Urhoghide, Imansuangbon, Ikhine’s Resignation: Will Edo PDP Collapse Under Obaseki?, By John Mayaki

The leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo state currently rests with Governor Godwin Obaseki, who displaced Chief Dan Osi Orbih. However, since Obaseki assumed leadership, the party has been plagued by ongoing crises.

The most recent blow came with the resignation of former governorship aspirant Engr. Gideon Ikhine. Prior to Ikhine, notable figures such as Senator Matthew Urhoghide, Barrister Kenneth Imansuangbon (popularly known as Rice Man), and former Commissioner for Information Mr. Adaeze Emwanta, among others, have also left the party.

Obaseki’s entry into the PDP, where he was offered the party’s ticket to contest for a second term in office, marked a turning point. He swiftly took control of the party’s leadership, leading to a series of litigation and internal conflicts.

Prominent figures like Chief Dan Orbih have now adopted a “sit-down-and-look” approach. Astute political players like Ogbeide Ihama have been neutralized, along with others such as Omo-Osunde Iyasere. Seasoned politicians have been sidelined in favor of technocrats.

Meanwhile, the story within the All Progressives Congress (APC) is not much different. Obaseki and his Deputy, Mr. Philip Shaibu, challenged their mentor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, relegating him to the political background. However, Oshiomhole has since gained prominence as a friend of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and as a Distinguished Senator representing the good people of Edo North.

As resignations from the PDP continue to mount, one may wonder who remains in the party. Will the house collapse on the Governor’s head? Alternatively, will the Governor abandon the house and seek refuge elsewhere?

These questions raise concerns about the character and leadership qualities of Governor Obaseki. His transition from the APC to the PDP, which now appears to be crumbling under his watch, begs us to assess the extent of damage he may have caused to the governance system of the state.

Governor Godwin Obaseki’s political journey, from destroying the APC to seeking refuge in the PDP, raises further doubts about his leadership capabilities. The impact of his actions on the governance system of Edo state remains a pressing concern.

The stability and coherence of a political party depend heavily on the leadership it receives. In the case of the PDP in Edo state, Governor Obaseki’s tenure has been marred by internal strife, resignations, and a general sense of disarray. This begs the question: Can a leader who has been unable to maintain unity within his own party effectively govern the state?

The dynamics within the PDP also highlight the fragility of Obaseki’s leadership. The departures of key figures, including prominent politicians and grassroots supporters, signal a lack of confidence in his leadership and the direction of the party under his guidance. Such fissures weaken the party’s structure and erode its ability to effectively advocate for the people it represents.

Moreover, the parallels with Obaseki’s actions in the APC are hard to ignore. His fallout with Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, his former political mentor, resulted in a contentious power struggle that ultimately led to his departure from the party. This raises concerns about Obaseki’s approach to building and maintaining meaningful relationships, both within his own party and with political allies.

Ultimately, the future of the PDP in Edo state hangs in the balance. If the party collapses under Governor Obaseki’s leadership, it will have far-reaching implications for the political landscape of the state. It also calls into question Obaseki’s ability to effectively govern and deliver on his promises to the people.

As the political drama unfolds, the citizens of Edo state deserve clarity, stability, and a leader who can steer the ship of governance with integrity and vision. The impact of Governor Obaseki’s actions on the state’s political landscape and governance system cannot be underestimated, and the consequences will be felt by the people whose interests should be at the forefront of any political leadership.

Engr Gideon Ikhine, a former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in the Edo 2020 governorship election, has resigned his membership of the party.

Ikhine announced his resignation in a letter dated July 8, 2023 and addressed to the Chairman, PDP Ward 7, Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State.

Though he did not give reasons for his decision. However, Ikhine said it was a great honour to have contributed to the growth and success of the party over the years, recording outstanding results from his Ward all through the 24 years of being a member of the PDP.

“My commitment to the people of Ward 7, Esan West Local Government and Edo people remains firm and resolute to keep serving them in other capacity,” he said.

Engr Ikhine thanked the party for the privileges, opportunities, and leadership he enjoyed over the past 24 years of his stewardship with the PDP, while extending his gratitude to the party leadership at both the state and national levels.

Ikhine’s resignation comes barely one month after Barr Kenneth Imasuangbon, another former PDP governorship aspirant, dumped the PDP for the Labour Party (LP) in Edo State.

He was one of the leading aspirants who withdrew from the Edo 2020 governorship election for incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki who later secured the PDP ticket to win re-election for a second term.

Edo State is set to host the 2023 CAF Women's Championships League, tagged ‘WAFU B 2023’, at the refurbished Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

This was as the Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu, Friday, inaugurated the eleven-member Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the ‘best women's football tournament’.

The LOC is headed by the Chairman, Edo State Sports Commission, Alhaji Yusuf Ali as Chairman and NFF board member, Babagana Kelli as Vice Chairman.

Other members are Mrs. Sabina Chikere, Hon Margaret Icheen, Hajia Amina Daura, Aisha Falode, Ruth David, Dr. Emmanuel Igbinosa, Mr Victor Edopkayi, Mrs Tony Owen and Mrs. Modupe Shabi who will serve as Secretary.

Inaugurating the LOC in his office, at the Government House, Benin City, Shaibu charged the members to hit the ground running and make the tournament a memorable one.

He expressed confidence that the Edo State Government will come out with the best tournament in the history of CAF.

The two-week long tournament will feature seven countries in the West African sub-region, including Nigeria, Ghana, Togo, Burkina Faso, Benin Republic, Niger Republic, and Cote D'Ivoire.

The tournament which runs from August 18 to September 2, 2023, will see seven clubs in the sub-region contest for the only slot in the CAF women’s champions league slated for October 2023.