As the Edo 2020 election comes closer, it's an everyday loss for the Executive Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki as more close aids have refuse to decamp with him to the People's Democratic Party.

The latest aides to tender their resignation letters are Mr. Honest Unuaghon Imina (SSA to the Governor on Local Government Matters), Goodluck Uyigue (Special Assistant to the Governor, ward 2), Rasaq Rotimi (Special Assistant to the Governor, ward 10), Olajide Victor Olorunyomi (Special Assistant to the Governor, ward and Smart Bank (Special Assistant to the Governor, ward 10), all from Ovia South West Local Government area

In the letter jointly signed by five of them, while thanking Mr. Godwin Obaseki for giving them the opportunity to serve in their various capacity, they stated that they are not willing to join him in the People's Democratic Party (PDP) because of their believe for the All Progressives Congress

See copy of resignation letter below...

The Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje has been appointed by the Caretaker/Extra-Ordinary National Convention Planning Committee of the All Progressives Congress to head the party’s high-level National Campaign Council for the Edo State Governorship Election.

Other members of the team include: The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma who is to serve as Deputy Chairman and Abbas Braimoh will serve as Secretary, Adams Aliu Oshiomhole, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Gov. Yahaya Bello appeared as members of 49 council members. This was contained in a statement signed by the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Yekini Nabena, in Abuja, on Thursday.

He said the setting up of the council “followed the approval for the constitution of a National Campaign Council for the 19th September 2020 Governorship Election, by the National Chairman of the APC Caretaker/Extra-Ordinary National Convention Planning Committee, H.E. Mai Mala Buni. “The campaign council will be inaugurated on Monday, 6th July 2020 at the Party’s National Secretariat. “

Over Refusal To Pay Whistle-Blower

A coalition of civil society organisations in the South South has threatened to sue the Federal Government over refusal to pay commission to one John Okupurhe who allegedly exposed over $1bn (N420bn) hidden in Unity Bank Plc.

The civil society organisations under the auspices of South South Anti-Corruption Watchdog (SACW) yesterday in Benin City, Edo state capital, vowed to ensure Okupurhe gets justice and those behind the hidden cash are exposed.

Okupurhe, according to report in a national daily, had informed the office of the Attorney General of the Federation about the account secretly operated by the Nigerian Ports Authority to illegally collect revenue from vessels.

National Coordinator of SACW, Prince Kokori Edjegba, said it was shocking to aides of President Mohammadu Buhari making mockery of his administration anti-corruption fight.

Prince Edjegba noted that if accounts of Okupurhe were true the Nigeria government ought to have played it's part by paying him for exposing hidden funds.

Edjegba stated that ridiculing Okupurhe good work would prevent others from coming forward with authentic information about stolen cash or exposing corruption in public service.

He said it was wrong for the AGF’s office to allow the issue gets to the public because it might exposed Okupurhe to unnecessary danger.

A letter by Okupurhe' lawyer and dated June 22, 2020 reads in parts “Pursuant to the whistleblower policy of the Federal Government, our client approached the Office of the AGF with confidential information in respect of hidden public funds concealed in a commercial bank in Lagos contrary to the Treasury Single Account policy which requires all public revenue or funds to be domiciled in the Central Bank of Nigeria.

“Our client presented the Office of the AGF with qualifying information on a cloned account with the Nigerian Ports Authority which was being used to illegally collect revenue from vessels by the signatories who are no longer in the service of the NPA.

“Upon establishing that our client’s information qualified under the whistle-blower policy, the Office of the AGF signed a whistle-blower agreement with our client through his appointed counsel- Mamman, Maiyaki & Co.

“The information provided by our client eventually led to the exposure of the hidden/concealed funds in Unity Bank Plc to the tune of $1,034,515, 000.”

However, the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice in a media report Sunday had explained that government only pays whistleblowers after a successful recovery, not for mere tracing or exposure of suspected illegitimate funds.

The Minister was reacting to a letter allegedly by one Aliyu Lemu, Esq. purportedly written on June 22 on issues revolving around the payment of a whistleblower’s fees.

The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice wants to make it categorically clear that one does not get paid on account of exposing looted assets, but on successful recovery and lodgment of same into the designated assets recovery account at the Central Bank of Nigeria’’.

Governorship aspirant, Barrister Kenneth Imasuagbon, an aspirant in the race for the ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo, says contrary to reports, he has not stepped down for Governor Godwin Obaseki ahead of the party's primaries scheduled for Thursday.

In a statement signed by him and made available to newsmen in Benin on Wednesday, Imasuagbon debunked the rumour that he has accepted $2 million from the Governor to step down for him.

The Abuja based educationist stressed that he was in the governorship race to win and not to make up the number of aspirants for the PDP ticket.

He noted that the rumour of him accepting $2 million from the governor is being spread from his (Obaseki's) camp to sway the votes of delegates in his favour.

According to him, "The governor knows am popular with the delegates and he is doing everything possible to change this.

"For the sake of emphasis, I have not and will not consider accepting any money for me to step down from the rave for the PDP ticket.

"I also understand that they are trying to manipulate the delegate list to their favour. I want to warn that if they try it, we will do everything possible to resist it and we shall meet in the court of law.

He urged all delegates to come out and him in tommorow's primaries just as he promised to wipe away poverty from the state of elected as governor.

It was a needless and avoidable friction. But, perhaps, providence had an unsuspecting need for the script.

Earlier this month, Hon. Marvelous Muhizu Zibiri had slandered the highly respected philanthropist, Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo, when in a willfully damaging publication, which went viral on the social media he described the illustrious son of Benin a “drug baron”.

For many reasons, Captain Hosa as he is called, didn’t find such impudence funny neither was he going to let it slide this time.

This was a matter that had been resolved some 25 years ago, with a competent court declaring him clean. So, where is this coming from? Who could be behind this, because obviously, it was beyond the man, who was the new face of the attack?

But Captain Hosa made a resolution: that he would pursue this to the very last. However, in doing so, he would not employ any extra-judicial means or be seen to have abused his power and influence over a rather younger Zibiri, who was evidently misled.

That was how the journey that eventually culminated in a peaceful denouement, began. First on June 3, 2020, Captain Okunbo, petitioned the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, intimating him of what he described as “malicious, vicious and injurious” conduct of Zibiri.

Mindful of the damage that the publication had cause to both his
person and business, Okunbo asked the IG “to put a stop to the ongoing criminal falsehood and conduct of Mr. Marvelous Muhizu Zibiri and his cohorts, while we seek other legal remedies for this very dastardly act.”

Acting on the petition, the IG immediately deploy some of his men to work and after days of searching for Zibiri, he was arrested and taken to Abuja, where investigations about his destructive publication commenced.

However, on June 20, Jimba Chambers, solicitors to Zibiri, wrote to Captain Okunbo, seeking his patience and understanding, especially, having met at different times with their client, who had also owned up to the charges against him.

In the letter signed by Alhaji Yakubu Jimba, the solicitors wrote: “Our client is willing, ready and able to put up and publish a written withdrawal of alleged defamatory publication without prejudice. To this extent, we shall be grateful if you kindly decline to press charges. Our client further undertakes that upon regaining freedom, he shall publish a written apology to you forthwith.”

Replying to Jimba Chambers, solicitors to Captain Okunbo, C.E Atano and Co, in a letter dated June 21, noted that, “Our client has been and is greatly hurt and embarrassed by your client’s conduct and actions.

His slanderous publications not only
dented his image, but also caused great damage to his reputation and business for which he is justifiably angry and had initiated legal actions to seek redress.

“Our client is an elder statesman, who has worked so hard to build his image and Business Empire over the years, and his people, especially, the youths look up to him as a role model and beacon of hope in Edo State and the country in general.

He is particularly interested in developing the youths and encouraging them to pursue their dreams for which he has greatly invested in Edo State.

“Suffice it to say that your client caused serious damage, but based on his apologies and undertakings as stated in your letter, our client, out of magnanimity and as an elder statesman, may without prejudice decide to forgive ‘IF’ and when your client is able to make wide and copious publications and a handwritten apology as stated in your letter.

“Our client believes he was misled and ill advised, and now that he is remorseful and repentant, our client may overlook his excesses, though the damage has been done.”

Thus, on June 22, Captain Okunbo wrote back to the police, this time through the office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police and intimated the police of the development, which included the proposed apology and other undertakings by Zibiri as part of the understanding resulting in the final resolution of the matter.

“Being an elder statesman and a person with good interest of the youths and people of Edo State, coupled with several pleas from his people, Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo, has decided to forgive and not press charges on the condition that Mr. Marvelous Muhizu keeps to his undertakings as expressed through his lawyer’s letter and reiterated in the response letter by Cyril Atano esq., lawyer to Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo.

“Though serious damage has been caused by Mr. Marvelous Muhizu’s acts and conduct, and though his undertakings, pleas and withdrawals may not adequately redress or compensate for the damage, Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo, being a father figure to such youths and out of his magnanimity, has decided to forgive and let go if the conditions aforesaid are met.”

In two separate letters – of apology and undertaking – dated June 23, 2020, Zibiri, while apologising to Captain Okunbo
said: “I further hereunder vow never to be involved in such publications affecting him (Captain Okunbo) in any manner. I hope Captain Idahosa will find a heart to forgive me and withdraw the petition against me in the FIB.”

In that of undertaking, Zibiri stated also: “I wish to undertake that I shall make wide and copious publications in both Print and Social Media, recanting, withdrawing and disclaiming slanderous publications against Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo.

I also wish to undertake that I will cease to in any manner defame or undermine Captain Idahosa in whatever guise. Failure to do so shall entail judicial action against me.”

Hopefully, this uncharitable episode to the recurring albeit unfounded allegation puts an end to a matter that died and was
buried 25 years ago.

However, there’s a lesson here for both sides. While the timely show of remorse by the accused was smart and commendable, because he would have spent a good time prison on account of a willful defamation of character, the show of magnanimity by Captain Hosa is worthy of note and mention.

By his action in this matter, Captain Hosa has also lived true to type as a kind, sympathetic and generous son of Benin, who is interested more in mentoring the youths and building a future for them than watching them destroy themselves.

Although many of those close to Captain Okunbo hinted that he was badly damaged by such a weighty allegation, which sadly, was lacking in substance, that he was prepared to go the whole hog in seeking justice, the father in him however showed up at a most auspicious time, when it was badly needed.

This is a classic case of a deviant son and a large-hearted father doing right from their respective standpoint.

Importantly, however, it is hoped that many others in Zibiri shoes, who are susceptible to manipulations by the dregs of the society would take a cue from his ordeal and ponder a productive use of their time and gift.

First and foremost, I give thanks to God Almighty for the successful conduct of the primaries and the safety of all our members, including officials of all agencies, who took part across the state.

I thank the leader of our party, the All Progressives Congress, President Muhammadu Buhari for his fatherly disposition and democratic stance that set the stage for a free and transparent contestation devoid of institutional bias, favoritism, or imposition of any kind.

I am also grateful to the national leadership of the APC for the courage displayed and the commitment to democratic ideals that have distinguished our party and made it appealing to millions of Nigerians across the country. The bold insistence on adherence to the constitution of the party, even amid immense pressure, was a great show of leadership that served as a reminder to all that the APC is a party founded on sacred values central to its growth and survival.

My grateful thanks also go to the Edo State Traditional Council led by Our great King, Omo' N' Oba N' Edo Uku Akpolokpo, The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II for the fatherly counsel and important interventions. I wish to reiterate my deep respect and undying loyalty to the institution.

To the election committee chaired by His Excellency, the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma for organizing a primary election that allowed the members of our party in the state to elect a candidate in a responsible, safe, fair, and transparent process, I convey my deepest gratitude.

From the start, with the adoption of the direct mode of primary, our party showed its recognition of the peculiarity of the times we are in and its commitment to complying with all regulations and guidelines in place to ensure that our people are protected from danger, specifically the coronavirus disease.

Today, because of the hard work of the committee, the cooperation of INEC, observers, and all security agencies, that desire got full expression as members of our party, whose conduct was admirable and responsible, participated in a primary that will form a point of reference to all on how to practice democracy without compromising safety procedures in the fight against a viral disease.

I am grateful to everyone for their support, most especially my fellow aspirants who shunned the politics of bitter opposition and displayed the level of maturity and sportsmanship never before seen in the history of this country.

Against an incumbent government that tested the resolve and unity of our party using morally bankrupt tactics without any regard for the rule of law, we were able to prevail because Dr. Pius Odubu, Hon. Osaro Obazee, Engr. Chris Ogiemwonyi, General Charles Airhavbere (rtd), Hon. Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma, Hon. Saturday Uwuilekwe and Professor Ebegue Amadasun showed great leadership and fought a good fight premised on the shared understanding that we are all on the same side, confronting and seeking to undo the many failures of an administration that betrayed our people and the values of our party.

I am very grateful to them and I look forward to working with them as we return to the streets and homes of our people, to restore and strengthen their hope and faith in the party, the All Progressives Congress, and return Edo state back on the path of development and growth.

Today’s victory is not for me alone. It is a victory for democracy, for the rule of law, and for our party, the All Progressives Congress. To everyone who played a part in making it possible; to my family, my campaign team, support groups at home and in the diaspora, members of our party, and all Edo people, I say thank you.

Receiving your endorsement and nomination to represent our party in the Governorship election is one of the greatest honors of my life. I find myself joyous but as well aware of the faith reposed in me by you all. Most importantly, I feel the weight of that trust and the great need not to disappoint all of you who deemed me worthy of the honor to fly the banner of our great party and be your representative at the polls.

The agenda remains SIMPLE in the literal sense of those alphabets as I renew my pledge to devote myself to moving this state forward by bringing new ways and innovative methods in: Security and Social Welfare, Infrastructural Development and Urban Renewal, Manpower Development and Training, Public-Private Partnership, Leadership by Example, and Employment Creation and Social Empowerment Scheme.

This time, we must get it right. And the work to make this a reality must continue with revitalized passion and zeal. Our victory today is only the beginning. We must now all come together, renew our loyalty to the party, and march with sturdy strides on this new path that beckons.

Fellow party members, thank you once again for your confidence in me and support. I assure you, and the people of our state, that you will not be disappointed.

May God bless you all.

Architect Frank Evbuomwan , Managing Director of Edo State Geographical Information Service (EDOGIS), has advocated for more community awareness to stem the spread of the novel Coronavirus disease pandemic in Nigeria.

Evbuomwan made the call when he distributed palliatives to cushion the effect of Covid-19 pandemic to communities in Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo.

Represented by the Vice Chairman, of the council, Mr Fred Aimienwanwu, the EdoGIS boss said the call for more community awareness became necessary because of the increase in the number of affected persons, especially at the community levels across the country.

The Edo GIS boss noted that though enough sensitisation have been carried out on how to prevent the spread of the disease, but stressed that many Nigerians still believe that the virus is not real.

According to him, "While many believe that the disease is being exaggerated, others sees it from the angle of politics; a means to make money by politicians".

"They have chosen to ignore the fact that some prominent personalities have died as a result of the disease; while many developed countries of the world such as America and UK, have suffered untold fatalities due to the effect of the pandemic.

"I think we need to do more of sensitisation and the danger of non adherance to the rules to prevent he spread of the virus in the country as spelt out by the government. There can never be too much of enlightenment on this matter."

In the distribution of the palliatives on behalf of the State Governor, Evbuomwan urged the people to remain hopeful as government would from time to time wheel out other measures to alleviate their suffering.

Evbuomwan urged the beneficiaries to use the items judiciously and adhere to the laid down rules such as wearing of face masks in public, washing hands regularly, keeping social distance and keeping their environment clean.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Efionayi Ihenegbe, who commended the Governor for providing the palliatives, also appreciated the Managing Director of Edo GIS for making sure the items got to those who really needed them at a time when some others chose to divert or keep such palliatives to themselves.

Items distributed included over 100 bags of rice, cartons of vegetable oil, Spaghetti, Macaroni, malt drinks, bottled water and among others.

...PDP Youths kick Over Waiver For Obaseki

Some chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party in Edo Central senatorial district have backed the aspiration of Barr. Kenneth Imasuangbon popularly known as 'Rice Man' to clinch the ticket of the party at the party primaries scheduled for June 23.

Imasuangbon has refused pressure to step down from the race for Governor Godwin Obaseki.

The Edo Central PDP chieftains in a press statement said their support for Imasuangbon was their belief on the need to reward loyalty and commitment.

Speaking on behalf of the PDP chieftains from the five local governments in Edo Central, Elder Solomon Eboigbe, urged Imasuangbon not to accept any offer to step down from the race.

Elder Eboigbe said they have consulted widely across the state and the verdict from the people was Imasuangbon as their choice.

Youths and women of the Peoples Democratic Party in Edo State have cautioned the national leadership of the party against granting waiver to Governor Godwin Obaseki to enable contest at the party primaries scheduled for June 23rd.

The youths and women said the September 19 governorship polls in Edo has provided an opportunity for the party to take over the seat of power in the state.

Coordinator of the PDP youths under the aupices of PDP Youths for Justice, Alhaji Musa Kadiri, warned the party leadership to reward loyalty instead of looking for opportunities.

Alhaji Kadiri said the three aspirants besides Governor Obaseki were capable of defeating any candidate the APC would present.

Kadiri stated that the PDP might witnessed implosion if Governor Obaseki is given the ticket on a platter of gold.

According to him, "We, the youths on ground in Edo know that the PDP has positioned itself to win the forth coming gubernatorial elections. We do not need Obaseki who was chased out of the APC based on questionable credentials.

Also, a woman leader in Egor local government, Mrs. Imuwahen Osasu, said the Edo PDP does not need Obaseki.

The Legislative leader of Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo, was on Wednesday removed by three councillors from the 10 that made up the council's legislative arm.

The councillors who briefed newsmen in Benin, attributed the unconstitutional removal of the leader to their refusal to defect from the All Progressives Congress (APC) with the council chairman.

The councillors are loyal to the Adams Oshiomhole faction of the party in the state while the Chairman, Mr Destiny Enabulele, is loyal to the Gov Godwin Obaseki.

The leader, Mr Robert Ekeme Fiyes was impeached while another councillor, Mr Mr Godwin Osahenvemwen, was suspended for allegedly not supporting Obaseki.

Fiyes said his removal and the suspension was allegedly carried out in the private residence of a very influential chieftain of the party who is still in the Obaseki administration.

He further said the signatures of the seven councillors who did not partake in the alleged removal were forged.
 
“We are not aware of any impeachment; our signatures were forged into a document and three of our members went to the house of a leader of APC who is not even from our local government but in government and purportedly removed the leader and suspended a councillor.

"The allegation is that we are not loyal to the chairman who is supporting Governor Obaseki," he said.

But when contacted, the chairman of the council, Enaulele, denied allegation of such development.

According to him, “I am not aware of such, we operate independent arms of government but I have been informed that I have a letter from the legislative arm which I have not even seen.”

Chairman, Ocean Marine Limited and Business mogul, Capt Hosa Okunbo yesterday warned that he would stop at nothing until perpetrators of malicious falsehood and attack against his person and organization are meant to face the full wrath of the law.

He said the time when he would gloss over orchestrated attack and activities of mischief makers aimed at maligning his integrity and reputation are over.

Okunbo in a statement made available to newsmen in Benin City, Edo state, captioned "Enough Is Enough" said he had through his legal team written to the Inspector General of Police, Muhammadu Adamu, over activities one Marvelous Zibiri's attempt to denigrate his name through malicious and libelous publications in order to peddle alleged falsehood and lies under the guise of playing politics in the state.

Okunbo said he takes pride in his Bini ancestry and holds dearly the highest ethos of integrity, as that has been key to his success as an entrepreneur of international repute.

He spoke against the backdrop of a publication by ‘Honourable’ Marvelous Zibiri, said to be a serving aide of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, pointing out that he (Zibiri) had “betrayed his lack of capacity for decorum and reasonableness, bellying his claim to being an ‘honourable’ as his very action is a direct negation to that revered title.’

He vowed that his “reputation built over decades of hard work, dedication, commitment to excellence and the highest standards of forthrightness, cannot be damaged or demeaned by anyone whose pedigree is questionable, to say the least.”

Okunbo is also the Chairman, Ocean Marine Solutions Limited, however, expressed confidence in the police through IGP Adamu would “apply due diligence investigations to establish the veracity or otherwise of Mr. Zibiri’s claims, adding that”My legal representatives have also been briefed for possible libel and defamation of character charges.”

According to him, “The intent, tone and language deployed in this particular publication betrayed his desire to cast aspersion on my person, and to smear my hard-earned reputation with innuendoes, allusions, and outright falsehoods.”

“If they ever thought it’s going to be business as usual from this day onward, then, it’s okay to do a test of my resolve to protect and guard jealously my priceless asset: my name,” he said.

While making reference in a discharged and acquitted of all charges on a ‘no case’ submission. Proceedings of this case with in suit No: MOT/L/163/95 which was documented and accessible to the public, Okunbo stated that, “It is this unfortunate incident of 1995 that my detractors and vicious character assassins have continuously drummed up to tarnish my character, to score cheap political points and for other devious reasons whenever it suits them.”

“I have never been interrogated nor charged, much less convicted for any drug or drug-related issue anywhere in the world. Thus, Mr. Zibiri’s reference to me as a ‘drug baron’ is the height of malice and mischief,”

He said, “Much as they had tried to splash mud in my corner, including some of my businesses, I have not ceased to receive letters of commendations from our partners, who not only appreciate our efforts at adding value and improving the overall good, but urging us to do more. Their words of support and encouragement are definitely inestimable.”

He urged all his associates and partners, “not take these inane and unfounded attacks seriously, because they know what it is: an attempt to deliberately damage a thriving and enduring brand. But the time to pull the breaks and put all of those mischief-makers in their respective places"

Edo All Progressive Congress (APC) caucus in the House of Representatives, have endorsed Mr Osagie Ize-Iyamu, ahead of the June 22 governorship primaries of the party in the state.

In a joint statement by the six APc member in the Green chamber, they said the resolution was taken after after an extensive consultation across the state.

The statement was signed by Prof Julius Ihonvbere (Owan Federal Constituency), Mr Johnson Oghuma (Etsako Federal Constituency), Mr Dennis Idahosa (Ovia Federal Constituency), Mr Peter Akpatason (Akoko-Edo Federal Constituency) and Mr Patrick Aisowirien (Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency).

The lawmaker also expressed their support on the method the leadership of the party chose for the governorship primaries.

The statement reads: "Further more, as members of the party, we hereby restate our full support for the method the party has chosen as their preferred method for the forthcoming primaries in Edo.

"In reaching this conclusion, we considered safety, security and logistics reasons as well as political inclusiveness and compliance to Covid-19 regulations."

In the statement, the lawmakers commended the party men and women for their resilience and support.

The Independent National Electoral Commission ( INEC) have announced September 19 as the date for the Edo governorship poll.

Hundreds of youths, elders of host communities of OML 30, Cluster 11, in both Burutu and Warri South West Local Government Areas of Delta State yesterday described as not only frivolous, baseless attempt by Central youth body of Warri to blackmail operators of the facility, Ocean Marine Solutions, OMSL that the multi-billion naira firm has not done any empowerment to Indigenes of the area.

This is coming as another group, Niger Delta Coalition Of Coastal Communities, Chief Donben Donyegha, also debunked allegations by one Bullet Otuaru against the Managing Director of Ocean Marine Solution, Captain Hosa Okunbor as false.

In a press statement made available to newsmen in Benin City, Edo State, by leaders of the communities which constituted OML 30 cut across Burutu and Warri South West Local Government area of Delta state, rose in the defense of the security firm and its Chief Executive Officer, Capt. Hosa Okunbor for subleting surveillance contracts to indigenes of the host communities

The statment which was jointly signed by Fidelix Atutu , Engr. Don Dickson Ogugu, Comr. Yerin Golo, Chief Jeremiah Iyepade, Comr. Ebikeme Angodideke, Pst. Phillip S. Fianka, Chief Prince E. Onaro, Comr. Burutu Mozu, Mr. Yerin Joel, Mr. John Ekerefe, Double Chief Felix Ebah among others.

They noted that those benefiting from the company are all bonafide indigenes of the communities.

Speaking further, the leaders had noted that beside doling out pipeline contracts to indigenes of the host communities, Ocean Marine Solutions Limited had also empowered youths from the said communities and beyond that are receiving salaries on a monthly basis as employment.

They maintained that it is not fair for anyone or group of persons to have come up with such untrue and blackmailing method to malign a company that is doing well and calling beneficiaries from the area strangers.

However, they called on the Federal Government, Delta State Government, the concerned local governments councils and members of the general public to completely disregard such group of people.

Part of the statement jointly signed by the elders reads: “The said purported Central Youth Body of Warri, Excravos, Burutu and Forcados in Burutu Local Government and Warri South West Local Government Areas of Delta State does not have the host communities mandate in cluster 11, OML 30 Transforcados pipeline

“The self acclaimed Central Youth Body does not know the true picture of what and what is going on in Transforcados pipeline OML 30.

"Concerning the said publication by this self acclaimed youths who are not even recognised in the host communities where this operation is taking place in OML 30 Transforcados pipeline.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria, Delta State Government, the Chairmen of Warri South West and Burutu Local Governments should be aware that OMS has legally engaged the host communities and has done the needful by giving employment slots/jobs to the youths of the host communities, therefore, there is no youth restiveness that is likely to cause crisis in the said concerned area where OMS is running the surveillance contract.

“The only thing that might likely bring issues if not urgently addressed is the use of Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited to cancel and terminate the indigenous grass cutting/local surveillance contractors and workers in Transforcados pipeline, OML 30 which the leaders of various communities, Delta State Government and Heritage in a joint meeting held at Government House, Asaba resosolved that Heritage should with immediate effect reaward such contracts back to its original beneficiaries from the host communities which Heritage has not been able to fulfill.

“As far as we are concerned leaders of the host communities in OML 30, this is the only thing that is causing tension which might likely cause issues if Heritage fails to reversed the contracts back to their original indigenous contractors.

Mr Dennis Idahosa (Edo - APC) has urged those in leadership positions to emulate the virtues of late Chief M. K. O. Abiola, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Prof. Ambrose Alli and Dr Nnandi Azikiwe, who all left a indelible footprint towards the development of the country.

He said these names, including the late Premier of Northern Region, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Mallam Aminu Kano amongst others, were pro-people leaders, who in their daily living, made the happiness of the citizenry their priority.

The lawmaker stated this in a press statement by his media aide, Mr Osaro Aghedo, and made available to newsmen in Benin on Tuesday.

He said not only did these Pan-Nationlists lived for the people, but that they also died for the country.

The representative of the Ovia Federal Constituency in the Green Chamber, stressed that at this challenging times, the present crops of leaders in the country must imbibe the virtues of being selfless in leading the people.

Idahosa said by so doing, not only would the country be better for it, but it would also bring peace of mind to the leaders.

He said with the present challenges; insecurity, unemployment, and corruption, a change of attitude, especially by the leaders, would save the nation from eminent danger.

He however commended the President Muhammadu Buhari on his efforts at diversifying the economy of the country.

According to him, "For us to have a people will can lead, there must first of all be a country; we had notable Nigerians like in have mentioned, that worked hard to keep this country safe and united.

"Their approach to keeping the country safe and united was achieved through their exemplary life style and their pro-people approach to their everyday dealings. This to me, is what I see lacking in our now everyday polity.

"I sincerely believe that if we can imbibe the virtues of these notable Nigerians, in addition to the efforts being made by the government to diversify the economy of the country and create jobs for the teeming unemployed youths, some challenges of the nation, especially that of insecurity would have been solved.

"As we mark another anniversary of June 12, we (the leaders and those being led) must reflect on what the June 12 struggle was all about and have it in our consciousness that it is only when we all work together that we can have a great country; a country of our dream."

A socio-political group, the Estako Solidarity Forum (ESF) has warned politicians in Edo State to stop maligning the name of respected business mogul, Captain Hosa Okunbo over the forthcoming governorship election.

The warning by the ESF came following several posting of malicious and untrue statements online linking Captain Hosa as being the brain behind emergence of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu as consensus aspirant of a faction of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The ESF urged politicians to leave Captain Hosa out of their political misfortune.

It said the politicians sponsoring the falsehood online publications would soon be exposed, shamed and sued appropriately.

National Coordinator of ESF, Comrade Seidu Momoh, said Captain Hosa is one of the prominent sons of Edo State that quit partisan politics in 2015 to focus on his global business.

Comrade Momoh noted that Captain Hosa philanthropic activities extended to all parts of Edo state and beyond.

Momoh said politicians sponsoring the malicious statements should hide their head in shame.

Also, the Bini Progressive Forum, BPF, Jude Idemudia, condemned the dragging of Captain Hosa name into the political crisis in the state.

"We want to warn the perpetrators and their sponsors to desist from this madness. Politics should be played in an atmosphere of peace, togetherness, fairness and unity instead of subjecting it to ridiculous unsubstantiated and false claim against our illustrious son that has continue to give his all to the advancement of Edo indigenes and Nigeria. He deserves our respect.

Youths of the All Progressives Congress in Edo State have lauded moves by Engr. Chris Ogiemwonyi to participate in the primaries of the All Progressives Congress.

The Edo APC youths said Engr. Ogiemwonyi is the best candidate to an easy sell during campaigns.

Speaking under the auspices of APC Youths for Justice and Development (AYOJD), they said they have begun mass mobilisation of APC members across state for Engr. Ogiemwonyi.

President of AYOJD, Alhaji Bagudu Momoh, who spoke in a press statement made available to newsmen in Auchi, headquarters of Estako West said it was initially shockingly to them that Engr. Ogiemwonyi stepped down from the race.

Alhaji Momoh noted that Engr. Ogiemwonyi has touched the lives of many APC members and the party primaries would be a point to thank him.


According to him, "We urge our members across the state to nominate Ogiemwonyi. He is man of integrity. A man that has no blemish to his name. Ogiemwonyi is a man that knows what party loyalty means. A man that has respect for the good, the bad, the ugly, the young and the old.

"Edo needs a man who has respect for all caliber of persons no matter their status. A man who knows what human capital and infrastructural developments actually mean. A man of the people. A man who truly love to see the youths gainfully employed and kept off the street. A man who before now has always empowered women and will continue to. A liberal man and a true democrat and above all, a man who has the fear of God.This is the kind of man Edo State need as governor."

Governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party, Barr. Kenneth Imasuangbon, has boasted that he would lead the party to bounce back to governance in Edo State.

Imasuangbon, popularly known as 'Rice Man' said he knew the strategy to defeat whomever the ruling All Progressives Congress project as its candidate.

Imansuagbon who spoke shortly after his nomination form was submitted to the PDP national secretariat, Abuja on his behalf by his political associate and mobilizer, Comrade Samuel Akhaine, thanked Edo youths, traders and artisans for mobilising N10m for the purchase of the form.

Imasuangbon said he would not forget their sacrifices after electoral victory.

He also tasked leaders of the PDP to ensure the party primaries are free and fair.

His words, "Today signifies the beginning of the march towards taking over Osadebey avenue in Edo State. I assure you that the days of the APC are numbered in Edo.

"The PDP is winning the election and that can only be done if I win the primaries. There is nothing to worry about that. Edo people know me and what I can do.

"My appeal is for the PDP leadership to be fair and firm. We will not allow past experiences to reoccur. What I demand is a free and fair primaries".

Governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party, Barr. Kenneth Imasuangbon, has boasted that he would lead the party to bounce back to governance in Edo State.

Imasuangbon, popularly known as 'Rice Man' said he knew the strategy to defeat whomever the ruling All Progressives Congress project as its candidate.

Imansuagbon who spoke shortly after his nomination form was submitted to the PDP national secretariat, Abuja on his behalf by his political associate and mobilizer, Comrade Samuel Akhaine, thanked Edo youths, traders and artisans for mobilising N10m for the purchase of the form.

Imasuangbon said he would not forget their sacrifices after electoral victory.

He also tasked leaders of the PDP to ensure the party primaries are free and fair.

His words, "Today signifies the beginning of the march towards taking over Osadebey avenue in Edo State. I assure you that the days of the APC are numbered in Edo.

"The PDP is winning the election and that can only be done if I win the primaries. There is nothing to worry about that. Edo people know me and what I can do.

"My appeal is for the PDP leadership to be fair and firm. We will not allow past experiences to reoccur. What I demand is a free and fair primaries".

Frontline Edo State People's Democratic Party , PDP, Governorship hopeful, Barrister Ken Imansuagbon, says he will defeat any candidate of the APC at the September 19th Governorship election if he emerge his party's standard flag bearer.

Imansuagbon who is the first contender for the PDP ticket to purchase the nomination and expression of interest form for the election also commended PDP youth who had contributed over N50 towards his bid to rescue the state from the grip of the APC led government in the state.

Imasuangbon, popularly known as the 'Rice Man' is currently in the United States of America but some ordinary citizens last week had raised funds to buy the nomination form for him.

Reacting to the gesture, Imasuangbon in a press statement, however vowed to resist any attempt to impose governorship candidate by some leaders of the PDP.

He said the PDP national leadership of the party want a free and fair primaries in Edo but some leaders in the state are bent on circumventing the process.

He said the raising of over N50m by ordinary citizens for him to purchase nomination form was an indication that the PDP want a popular candidate that can not only challenge APC candidate but win the governorship election.

According to him, "Even though I am far away in the United States what it means is that Edo youths want the state to be better.

"They know that only a popular candidate can win election in Edo and my advice to the Edo PDP is that those who want to impose candidate will be resisted. Such a candidate will not be accepted

"I thank the youth for the contribution. I was informed that over N50m have been raised even though I have enough to purchase the form am really humble by their gesture.

"The kind of gesture is unbelievable. It shows the youth and people of Edo state love democracy therefore the will of the people should prevail. I am coming back to participate in the primaries."

“I told you I was purchasing my nomination and expression of interest forms this week and I have made good my promise even while I am still here in the United States, but I can assure my teeming supporters that I will be home soon as I have concluded plans to return”.

An American based Satellite Television Station, Eagles TV, is set to beam to its over 100 million viewers across 70 countries of the World , local content programmes from Nigeria.

This was disclosed by the Co-Chairman of the Station and the General Overseer (GO) of Divine Grace of Glory Ministry, Pastor Peter Obaseki, at a press briefing in Benin on Thursday.

Obaseki stressed that the overriding interest was to bring to global notice, through the station that is popular in Europe, America and Sub-Sahara Africa, news and programmes of about Nigeria.

He noted that programmes to be broadcast on Eagles TV includes, Pre-Recorded as well as live programmes.

The Co-Chairman however, corrected the impression that only religious programmes was up for broadcast on the station.

"Our programme content goes beyond religious activities. Aside broadcast of social programmes, we are beam to our viewers other activities that are impactful to the society.

" Primarily, our aim is to ensure that news and activities about Nigeria and Edo in particular, especially from the grassroot, is passed to the World, " stated Obaseki.

He said in order to make the station more accessable to Nigerians, Eagles TV is offering the most competitive airtime rate.

"We offer from as little as N4, 000 for a 15 minutes programme to N13, 000 for a 60 minutes programmes.

" This is particularly good for churches that do not have their own station but spend so much on airtime on local channels, " he said.

Obaseki said though Eagle TV plan to produce, cheap and affordable decoder in no time, but in the meantime, Eagles TV plan to beam their programmes on GOTV and DSTV.

"But for now, Eagles TV is beaming on MYTV, a Free-To-Air Satellite Station and other platforms."

[b][/b]Students of University of Benin under the aegis of Ovia Students Forum has promise to deliver 10,000 votes for candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Mr. Dennis Idahosa.

Idahosa is seeking to represent Ovia Federal Constituency in the house of representative.

The seat is currently been occupied by Barr. Omosede Igbinedion of People's Democratic Party (PDP).

Spokesman of the Students, Comrade Emmanuel Osifo who spoke during a thank you visit to Idahosa said they want to reward his good gesture with votes in the next year general election.

Comrade Osifo said the scholarship program of Idahosa enabled many of them from poor homes to conclude their studies.

Osifo stated that they would also embark on house to house campaign to woo electorate for Idahosa.

Responding, Idahosa said he was shocked that the students remember the little gift he gave to them.

He said he will do more to alleviate poverty when elected.

#Nation

Curtis Eghosa Ugbo used to be an SSA to the Governor but was sacked about two months ago by the Governor.

THE presumptive nominee of the People for Democratic Change, PDC, Mr. Andrew Emwanta, says he has pulled out of the race to endorse the APC candidate, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

Mr. Emwanta, in a statement, also called on his supporters to work for the victory of Obaseki in the September 10 governorship election.

The PDC aspirant who was the only aspirant in the race on the platform of the party said he consulted with leaders of the party including Senator Chimaroke Nnamani before pulling out of the race.

The statement reads in part: “On behalf of my supporters and party men in Edo State, I hereby propose and endorse the candidacy of Godwin Obaseki, the APC governorship candidate, being the genuine choice of well-meaning Edo people. That accordingly, my supporters and I will henceforth work for the victory of Godwin Obaseki as to enable him to emerge as governor of Edo State on September 10, 2016. I hereby call on all well meaning Edo people and residents, irrespective of tribe and religion to support the candidacy of Godwin Obaseki in the forthcoming governorship election in Edo State.”

It's unfortunate that Mr. Admin will reduce himself and turn this page to a lie spreading page. Those dayz, I do get my news from here but it's been confirmed that news here aren't to be trusted cos Nairaland has been hijacked and been used by Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu's boys.

This lies can only last for a short period and Edo will certainly GO further with Godwin Obaseki.

Pictures of Obaseki in Atlanta

The above news is false and misleading. Below are pictures of Godwin Obaseki in Atlanta