₦airaland Forum

Zamfara state government has pledged extends N18, 000 minimum wage to all the workers including primary school teachers in all 14 local government areas.
Governor Abdulaziz Yari declared this yesterday at the Workers’ Day celebration held at Zamfara College of Art and Sciences, Gusau.
The Governor, who was represented by the secretary to the state government, Prof. Abdullahi Shinkafi, said government described workers as the “bedrock in national development,” said the state government would continue to give them the necessary support to develop the state’s socio-economic potentials.

He said all the necessary strategic and mechanism “will soon be put in place to ensure the local governments’ workers and primary school teachers have started enjoying the minimum wage salary scale soon if the state’s economy improved.”
He also charged the state and local governments’ civil servants to engage themselves into agribusiness activities to improve their socio-economic potentials and enhance food security.
The Governor maintained that his administration had reintroduced the Zamfara state Comprehensive Agricultural Revolution Programme (ZACAREP) and urged the state and local governments’ workers to register their names under the programme for them to get the necessary farming tools and substances at subsidised rates.
“The state government is making all it could to implore ways of boosting the morals of our civil servants and we have to engage them into agribusiness scheme to reduce high defending on government,” he said.

In his address, the state chairman of Nigeria Labor Congress, Comrade, Bashir Muhammad, said the theme of this year’s Workers’ Day Celebration is “Working Class and Quest for Socio-economic Revival.”
The NLC boss called on Governor Yari to consider the 1,400 employed graduates on the state’s payroll in order to reduce the socio-economic hardship they were facing.
He commended the Governor for releasing N100 million every month for the payment of gratuity to retirees, but appealed to him to increase the allocation to clear the backlog.

INTERVIEW
Alhaji Murtala Jangebe, chairman of Zamfara State Universal Basic Education Board, is a chieftain of All Progressives Congress in the state. Jangebe talks about the performance of the Governor Abdulaziz Yari government and some national issues, in this interview with Mohammed Aminu. Excerpts:

How would you evaluate the apparent emphasis on infrastructure, especially road construction, under the Governor Abdulaziz Yari administration in the last two years?

Government is supposed to serve the people and any government that fails to do that is not fit to be called a government. So, the present administration has really utilised the limited resources at its disposal to meet the needs, yearnings, and aspiration of the people of the state. As you are aware, leadership is a trust and one has to account to God for his stewardship. Yari's emergence as the governor of Zamfara was a project made possible by God and the people. He believes that he has to account for his stewardship before God. And that is why he cannot rest and that is why you see the present government spending a lot of money in terms of rebuilding the decaying infrastructure, like roads, schools and hospitals.

Zamfara State was created in 1996 by late General Sani Abacha, but when you look at other sister states, we are the only state left behind because successive administrations did not give priority to infrastructure. In fact, in the past 18 years, not more than 500 kilometres of roads were built by previous administrations. This is the challenge we met on ground and the governor felt the need to do something urgently. Thus, instead of giving money to the politicians to spend and merry, Yari decided to build infrastructure that will stand the test of time. In fact, so many roads were built and remote communities that had never seen a tarred road since the creation of the earth now have accessible roads. A lot of boreholes, schools and hospitals were built. All the 14 local government areas in the state have witnessed massive road construction and the projects were built by this administration and are there for people to see.

But critics claim that hospitals are built across the state without adequate personnel to man them. What is your take on this?

The state government has taken measures to address the challenge by sponsoring indigenes to study medicine abroad. To produce a medical doctor takes a minimum of seven years and we are only three years in government. And if you bring in medical doctors without a hospital to work, will it be possible? Which one comes first, is it the egg or the chicken? We believe that the first thing to do as a government is to build infrastructure, create the environment and then later concentrate on training the people. These personnel, like doctors, take time to build and train and that is why we are rebuilding primary education to get qualified personnel and manpower in the state. We know that all these things take time to build and we are working hard to address the problem.

But the governor has faced opposition from some politicians in the Peoples Democratic Party for, allegedly, neglecting the "stomach infrastructure."

It is not true. I am an economist and I don't believe in "stomach infrastructure." If you construct a road, you cannot exclude anybody from plying the road irrespective of party affiliation. Most of the contractors and those who executed projects in the state are APC stalwarts and they can take care of that. But it is not the duty of the state government to prioritise "stomach infrastructure." In fact, the over N10 billion spent by the Zamfara State Universal Basic Education Board in the execution of projects in the last three years were mostly done exclusively by indigenes of the state, especially APC chieftains. Human beings are never satisfied and when a person sees politics as a profession then he is bound to have problem. But if the person gets the money and invests it properly then it will be better for him. So, there is no way you can stop people from complaining because it is human nature.
Do you think Yari has met the expectations of the people to warrant his re- election in 2015?

Yari will run for a second term by the grace of God. And we hope to win with a landslide. The only opposition we have is the Peoples Democratic Party but the governor has done very well to impact on the lives of the people and as such deserves a second term.

But are you not worried by the fact that the Presidency is believed to be backing the former governor, Mamuda Shinkafi, to wrest power from the incumbent governor?

Are you saying that former Governor Shinkafi was not supported by the federal government in 2011? As you are aware Shinkafi was a PDP governor and he was defeated by Yari in the 2011 governorship polls by a landslide. Shinkafi is not holding any ministerial position or any appointment at the federal level and we are not aware that he is executing a contract that is worth at least N1 billion. So the notion that the Presidency is backing him to unseat Yari is mere rhetoric. Let him tell us how much debt he left for this present government in 2011? Let him explain to us which infrastructure was built with the debt incurred and for which purpose? As far as we are concerned, PDP is not a problem to us.

What is your take on the rumour that Yari is at loggerheads with his mentor and predecessor, Senator Sani Ahmed Yarima?

There is no rift whatsoever between Yarima and the current governor. We don't have any problem with him. Yarima is the political godfather of the governor. There is no iota of truth in the rumour. In fact, the governor does consult Yarima sometimes on issues that affect the state and there is no problem between them.

Do you think the APC has what it takes to wrest power from President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015?

Well, given the right calculation, I believe APC is set to wrest power from President Jonathan in 2015. I am confident that if the party gets its act together by capturing a large number of the electorate in the North-west and South-west, the election will be won by APC.

Do you think Jonathan should seek re-election in 2015?

The abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls is a source of worry to us. And if it were in saner climes where politics is practised the way it should be, like the United States of America, it will not take such a long period to rescue the girls. Jonathan calls the shot and he is responsible for the security of the citizens. But it is just unfortunate that we don't know where we are going.

The Northern Elders Forum recently gave an ultimatum to the president to rescue the Chibok girls or forfeit his re-election. Do you think the ultimatum was necessary?

I think it would have been better for the northern elders to go and seek audience with the president and ask him to act by doing something to rescue the girls. Are they saying that if Jonathan rescues the Chibok girls, they will vote for the PDP in 2015? I think dialogue with the president is the best rather than issuing empty threats. It is very wrong for some individuals to be issuing threats, insisting that if power does not return to their region, the country will break up. This country must give attention to real education and it is then people can make the right choice. Power must go to the right leader, whether the person is Hausa, Yoruba, Efik, Ijaw or any tribe.

FMINigeria:
The Zamfara State Government says it has awarded contract for the renovation, construction and supply of educational materials at the cost of 2.6 billion naira for all its 180 secondary schools.

Also, over 323 primary schools it says have been spread across the state.

Speaking at the Government Secondary School (GSS) Anka, the Commissioner for Education Zamfara State, Dr. Na’Ala Isa Mayana said the contract is being executed under the Zamfara State Education Action Plan 2011 – 2015.

He said the project has commenced with the 12 boarding schools for the 2012 Fiscal year comprising the supply of 10 thousand beds, 10 thousand mattresses and 10 thousand 3 seater desks.

At the GSS Anka the Team inspected the new Staff Quarters built by the present administration in the State.

Also speaking at the Township Primary School, Anka, Mr. Muritala Jengedi, Executive Chairman, Zamfara State Universal Basic Education Board said the present administration in the State renovated over 50 of such schools with 1.23 billion naira. “We have also fully furnished stand alone 1 block of three classrooms. We have 323 of these across the state”, Jengedi stated.

He further disclosed that the state has 41 ICT centres in 41 primary schools in 14 Local Government Areas set up at the cost of 300million naira. The contract he said was awarded on 19th March, 2012.

The Chairman ZSUBEB stated that Zamfara is the only state that has accurate data on school equipment, students, teachers among others. He said a report put together by indigenous professors of the state on the education sector received the commendation by UBEC and international donors adding that the report is being used as a blueprint to implement various projects in the sector.

Jengedi further informed that the sum of 3 billion naira was sourced from UBEC while an additional 2 billion naira was provided by the state governor bringing the total intervention in basic education to 5 billion naira.

He said another committee was setup led by a female lawyer which enrolled over 140 pilot schools to scale up girl child education which he disclosed also has the support of UNICEF.

The objective he said is to have over 2000 female teachers as role models to the girls.

Governor Abdulaziz Yari said he inherited a lot of projects on Education. He said “The administration came into office with a lot of zeal however resources were scarce”.

Considering the limited resources of the state, the Governor said the administration decided to prioritize its interventions on education.

The Governor who also lamented the trend of uncompleted projects in the state especially in the education sector declared that no contractor handling education projects was being owed from 2012 to date.

“We have given them the projects and we have set aside the funds. We have a dedicated account for them and at any point in time that they present their certificates the payment will be there because of the experience we had in the past.

“Some of the projects started in 2006, some 2007 and even in this school as I speak to you, there are some projects awarded since 2007 that are yet to be completed because I can see the lack of planning on the issue of finances”, Governor Yari said.

The NGGT Team also inspected similar project at the Kagalin – Jatau Primary School which is one of the 323 primary schools built by the state and dedicated for nomadic education and the Government Unity Secondary School, Gummi one of those renovated by the State Government..

The Minister of Information, Mr. Maku who interacted with the students at there saId urged the students to be more committed to their studies especially mathematics and english language as well as shun all forms of exam malpractice.

Via: Federal Ministry of Information (FMI) Nigeria

Gusau—GOVERNOR Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara State has said he has never spent public fund on any foreign trip, challenging critics to prove him wrong.
The governor, who spoke through his Information and Culture Commissioner, Ahaji Umar Jibo Bukkuyum, also explained that what he had done and was still doing, was to move the state forward developmentally.

According to him, the governor was doing his best toward addressing the problems in the state, saying “Instead of the people to be talking meaninglessly, they should face realities. It is a known fact that before this governor came in, so many things were lacking. For instance; a number of roads have been constructed across the state, and where there was no health institution, it has been built.”

He said instead of spreading unfounded rumours, people, should pray for the leaders to succeed in the discharge of their responsibilities.

The commissioner added that contracts for a number of roads to be constructed in the state had been awarded by the government in addition to the ones that had been completed, stressing that recently over N1 billion was released for payment of WAEC and NECO for students.

“We expect the people to commend the government over this development, and not to spread rumours. I think we should be fair to ourselves,” Bukkuyum said.
SOURCE: Vanguard

Governor AbdulAziz Yari of Zamfara State has promised to build an international airport and 7,000 housing units as part of his government plan to make houses available to the citizens of the state and ease transportation.Speaking yesterday during the swearing ceremony of his second term in office, Yari said 500 houses would be built in each of the 14 local government areas. He further explained that his administration is planning to build a befitting airport to boost commercial activities and provide a good system of transportation in the state.
“Our intending pilgrims will be airlifted from the newly constructed airport to the holy land come year 2016 Insha Allah,” he said.
The Governor said: “Our women will also be empowered as we promised during our campaigns and women as important stakeholders in the family institutions should be engaged economically to give them sense of belonging and help build up a morally up right society.”
He lamented the high rate of unemployment in the state, while promising to collaborate with the Federal Government to create job opportunities for the teeming unemployed youths.

SOURCE: Daily Trust

Mr Philip Shuaibu, the APC running mate yesterday affirmed that Godwin Obaseki as governor would reconstruct the state to look like Dubai saying that the APC’s candidate’s expertise in turning around the fortunes of many Nigerian companies has been well documentented.

Speaking after receiving the endorsement of the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Benin City yesterday, Shuaibu who expressed joy over the endorsement of the students, asserted that the PDP intends to further destroy the economy of the state but that the people of the state will vote against them come September 10, 2016.

Describing Obaseki as one man who will turn Edo State to Dubai, he said that “Obaseki is a man that when you talk about the story of transformation in our banks, you must mention his name. If you talk about those industries making waves today in Nigeria, the story will not be complete without calling the name of Obaseki. If you want to talk about Nigeria as far as economic issues are concerned, you must mention Obaseki.

“Everybody wants to tap from his experience; it is a gift from God that at this time APC decided that it is time to look for a technocrat to head the government here. It became possible to pay salaries in Edo State because we have a team working tirelessly to make things work in Edo state.

PDP has record of waste; they have no vision for the state and Edo people will further punish them next week Saturday” he stated.

SOURCE: Vanguard

The candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki, has promised to turn Uhonmhonde Local Government Area into the food basket of the state on assumption of office in November.

The APC flag bearer made the declaration in Ehor, headquarters of Uhonmhonde Local Government Area, while addressing party faithfuls during his campaign tour of the area.

According to Obaseki, who spoke in Pidgin, Uhonmhonde is blessed with a huge expanse of very fertile arable land that is suitable for food and cash crops even in commercial quantities.

“The entire length and breath of Uhonmhonde is so rich and fertile that it can become the food basket of the state if properly harnessed. In line with our agricultural revival and economic development, we will harness Uhonmhonde’s agricultural potential to the fullest”, he noted.

Obaseki added that for its rich endowments in natural resources, his administration is prepared to turn Uhonmhonde into the state’s food basket as its economic blueprint places emphasis on agricultural development and industrialization as major planks in his quest to create 200,000 jobs in four years.

“Uhonmhonde is very key to my agricultural development plan because of its rich natural endowments and inherent potential in agriculture. Let me assure you that in line with our development plans, we will turn this place into the food basket of the state.”

The All Progressives Congress (APC), women leaders in Edo, have said that Mrs Betsy Obaseki, the wife of the party’s Governorship candidate, holds Edo women in high esteem.

At a news conference in Benin on Saturday, the women leaders described as sad, the falsehood being peddled by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), that Mrs Obaseki described Edo women as “prostitutes’’.

The APC women leaders said that the wife of the gubernatorial aspirant would never use derogatory words for Edo women.

They urged Edo women to discountenance the campaign of calumny mounted against the wife of the APC governorship candidate.

A former Executive Director, Edo State Poverty Alleviation, Mrs Evelyn Igbafe, who recently decamped to the PDP, had alleged that Mrs Obaseki described Edo women as prostitutes.

The remark pitched Mrs Obaseki against PDP women in the state.

Mrs Obaseki was alleged to have recently said that PDP’s 12 years of bad leadership forced Edo women into prostitution abroad.

In view of the alleged statement, Igbafe had at a news conference in Benin, on Wednesday, asked Mrs Obaseki to tender an unreserved apology within four days or face mass protest from Edo women.

The Edo APC Women Leader, Mrs Aisosa Amadasun, said it was quite disheartening that Igbafe who had penchant for “criss-crossing’’, parties decided to misinterpret the content of Mrs Obaseki’s remarks.

“What Mrs Obaseki said, which we all agreed with, was that the previous government of PDP, because of the way they destroyed the very fabric of our society, forced a lot of young women to travel abroad for greener pastures.

“If Evelyn Igbafe did not understand the write up, she should be blamed for that or she should have asked somebody to read it and explain to her.

“I personally wondered why she brought in the issue of prostitution.

“In 2007 she was in PDP, as soon as the Oshiomhole got his mandate in 2008; in 2009, Igbafe decamped to the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN),” Amadasun said.

According to her, after that, in 2011, when we were preparing for re-election of Oshiomhole in 2012, again, she decamped to PDP.

“We won the election; Oshiomhole got 18 over 18 in all the local governments. As soon as we won that election, Igbafe again decamped back to APC.

“Now we are preparing for another crucial election, again she decamped to PDP. Edo women are very happy that she has gone back to PDP.

“If you look at her antecedents, there is no party she belongs to that wins elections and we want to warn her that APC will not take her back because we are going to win this election.

“Anybody she supports never wins election and I feel sorry for the PDP.

“Please remember she is going to try and come to APC again; we will never accept her in APC.

“On Sept. 28, we are going to give PDP the final burial, ’’ the women leader said. (NAN)

by OWOLABI OLUWASEGUN

Few days to the Edo State governorship election, the candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, has unveiled plans to make the State, the medical hub of Nigeria. If elected, Godwin Obaseki said that his administration’s health policy would focus on the poor and vulnerable.

Building health confidence
At an interactive section with members of the Edo State Chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association, NMA, Obaseki stated, “We will build confidence in our health sector so that Nigerians who usually travel abroad to seek medical care can come to Edo State and get the same quality of treatment.

“As a matter of priority, we will equip the newly refurbished Central Hospital, Benin, with the latest medical equipment and also staff with adequate, well-trained healthcare professionals. Our administration will also build and equip specialised departments and laboratories within the hospital for diagnosis and treatment of ailments for which Nigerians seek medical attention abroad.”

“Within the next four years, more standard hospitals will be built across the state and equipped for more efficient service delivery. We will also build emergency care centres at strategic locations across the state for prompt medical intervention, particularly for accident victims and also to reduce the pressure at the centre. Specifically, one will be built at Okada, along Benin-Lagos highway; another at Ologbo, between Edo-Delta highway; and another at Ehor, along Benin-Auchi expressway,” Mr Obaseki explained.

Primary healthcare centres
The APC flag bearer also emphasised that the development of primary healthcare centres, particularly in rural communities would be major areas of focus and that the health programmes of his government would also target the poor in the society.

“While we are committed to establishing more standard hospitals and emergency centres, government also has the responsibility to ensure access to basic medical care for those who cannot afford the bills; and this we will do under our health financing scheme! We will also build new primary health centres across the state and upgrade old ones so that people in the rural areas can equally have access to quality healthcare services,” he said.

Mr Godwin Obaseki assured the doctors and all other healthcare practitioners in Edo of a good working relationship when elected governor.

Welfare packages
He also promised that areas of dissatisfaction, particularly working conditions and welfare packages of the health workers would be improved upon

“I ask for your support to enable me actualise my plans for the sector,’’ Mr Obaseki added.

The President of the NMA, Dr. Emmanuel Osigbofo said that the association was prepared to give the APC governorship candidate the required support.

Dr Osigbofo tasked him on the implementation of his electoral promises, when elected into office.



SOURCE: http://www.von.gov.ng

Ramon Oladimeji

The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has said his ambition is not worth the blood of anyone.

Obaseki said though he was disappointed with the postponement of the governorship election, he would rather drop his governorship ambition than to have hoodlums hijack the election and shed the blood of innocent citizens.

He explained that he had no option but to accept the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission to shift the election from September 10 to September 28, 2016, based on security report by the police.

A statement by his media aide, Tunde Oladunjoye, quoted Obaseki as saying this in a chat with journalists in Lagos on Sunday.

He said, “We were ready for the election, but when the police belatedly raised the issue of security, there was nothing we could do.

“I will rather not be a governor than to have the blood of many people shed by miscreants that were imported into Edo State to cause havoc.

“How many people have been tried or charged to court for the wanton killings and violence in Rivers State, let alone being convicted? How many people have been arrested for the blatant murder of the Port Harcourt lawyer?

“These imported hoodlums have nothing to lose, they are not from Edo, and would not think twice before killing our people the way they killed people in Rivers State.”

He, however, said he was optimistic that he would achieve victory come September 28, the new election date.

“The APC will win the election convincingly any day or time. The postponement was just a mere shift of the doomsday for the People’s Democratic Party and others,” Obaseki said.

“The people of Edo State have made up their mind never to go back to the dark era.

“They know me, they know the lineage of my family, they can trace me from four, five generations back; they know I don’t have a violent past; I have never been charged or tried for violent behavior.”

The candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the September 28 governorship election in Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki, promises that if voted into power, his administration will produce more than 100 millionaires in the state in four years.
Obaseki stated this, yesterday, while speaking with the Grassroots Youth Initiative (GYI) in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, urging the people to use their Permanent Voters Card (PVC) to actualise “the peoples-oriented plans already laid down by APC.”

He said successes recorded by the APC in the last eight years in Edo State were glaring, calling on electorate not vote for different political party.
“We are almost through with rebuilding of schools and we will finish them,” he said.
“But why are we doing schools? It is to correct all the mistakes that the PDP made in their years of governance that children didn’t want to go to school. Now, we have done it and we would get more teachers to teach the pupils and students.
“We are launching our programme on agriculture called ‘the anchor programme’. Edo has been selected for seven products, oil palm, rubber, cassava, maize, livestock, poultry and fishery. Government is going to support you all to excel.”
He said that he wished to be governor where people would not struggle to buy car, promising that his administration would produce 100 millionaires after four years.
On his part, the GYI President, Mr Osarobo Idahosa, said that they were ready to deliver votes for Obaseki , adding: “We are here to officially endorse you because we find you credible among other candidates.”

SOURCE: Daily Trust

The Edo state All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship flag-bearer, Godwin Obaseki has promised to create 200,000 jobs.

Obaseki also said he will empower women in the state if he is elected as the Governor.

He also told newsmen that he will make Edo state the agricultural hub of the nation.

Adding that the focus of his administration will be to create jobs and promote industrialisation and entrepreneurship.

Obaseki said this while launching his governorship campaign at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Saturday, July 16, 2016 in Benin.

The governorship aspirant also promised to ensure constant electricity supply in the Edo state.

Obaseki promised to uphold the legacies of the current Governor, Adams Oshiomhole.

The Edo state Governorship elections is slated to hold on.

The Ogirrua of Irrua kingdom and Okaijesan of Esan land H.R.M Alhaji William Momodu II has assured Comrade Adams Oshiomhole that his palace and the good people of Esan Land will do everything within their ability to ensure continuity in the APC administration in order to complete the ongoing infrastructural development in Esan Land.

The Monarch made this known yesterday when the APC campaign train took the political battle to the domain of the PDP Political leader Chief Tony Anenih in Esan land. The Monarch described Comrade Adams Oshiomhole as a personal friend who has shown commitment and respect to the traditional institution. He maintains that the good works of the APC administration in the State are visible for everyone to see. He, therefore, appeals to all Sons and Daughters of Esan Land to support and vote a government that will build and continue with the level of development in the state.

On his part, comrade Adams Oshiomhole commended the paramount ruler for his support in the last election and his government urging him to extend the same support and encouragement to the in-coming administration of Godwin Obaseki who is sure to take over the mantle of leadership as the next executive governor of Edo State. According to Oshiomhole, you cannot change a winning and a performing team. As a government what we did in Esan Land, the PDP did not do it. Even the road that led to the residence of the PDP leader in Esan Land was all constructed by the APC Government. The All Progressive Congress (APC) has performed beyond the expectation of the opposition party in the State and we are in a hurry to do more and that is why we are here to seek your royal blessing for continuity.

While reacting to Campaign by the PDP factional Candidate that he will grant Local Government Autonomy the Director of Media and Publicity and Chief Spokesperson of the Obaseki Campaign Organization Hon. Abbas Braimah described the claim by Pastor Ize-Iyamu at Egor Local Government that he will grant Edo Councils Autonomy as laughable lies. According to the Law Maker, Ize-Iyamu is an embarrassment to the people of Edo State and the legal profession in Nigeria. How can a man who claimed to have read Law be saying he will grant Local Government an Autonomy that is not within the jurisdiction of any individual governor? Hon. Abbas Braimah who was a former member of the House of representative has volunteered to offer a two-week free crash programme for pastor Ize-Iyamu to tutor him about separation of powers and the true meaning of Local Government Autonomy rather than exposing his height of ignorance and lack of capacity publicly. He has also appealed to members of the public to be weary of the campaign promises of the PDP because their messenger has no message to the people of Edo State hence he has resolved to flex muscle with law makers over their constitutional responsibility rather than focusing on issues as it affects the state Braimah added.

SOURCE: Ireporter

Tunde Odesola

The All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has assured the people of the state that his envisaged administration will introduce a tax regime that is pocket-friendly.

In a press release issued by the Godwin Obaseki Campaign Organisation in Benin, the Edo State capital, on Wednesday, the governorship candidate noted that it was important to enhance the internally generated revenue base of the state, even as he vowed not to yoke the people with unbearable taxes.

“Bearing in mind our economic development initiatives which we will commence immediately upon assuming office and recognising the role of taxation in development, we will implement a pocket-friendly regime to grow the tax base,” he stressed.

Obaseki noted that as a financial expert with international recognition, he was best suited to govern Edo State.

Copyright PUNCH.

A cleric, Mr. Dele Abegunde, has asked critics stop making unfounded allegations about the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in Edo State, Godwin Obaseki.

Abegunde, who described Obaseki as an honest man, said the people of the state would not regret if he emerged as the state governor in Saturday’s poll.

Reacting to the allegations levelled against Obaseki in a statement on Tuesday, Abegunde, said, “It is important that we don’t keep quite when honest and upright men are being maligned by persons who do not know them. Edo people will never regret voting Obaseki as their governor.

“As one of his classmates in the university, Obaseki is unbendable. If there was any matter involving lying, evil, self-gratification or vainglory, count him out; you cannot find Obaseki there.

“When ‘one’ of his cousins said that he could not be trusted, I knew that man was not his cousin. He does not know Obaseki.

“Obaseki has never strayed in terms of character. He is honest to the core. He would never lie, nor allow us to lie on his behalf. He was extremely straight forward.”

Copyright PUNCH.

Ekpoma (Edo) – Mr Godwin Obaseki, APC governorship candidate, said he would re-introduce scholarship and payment of bursary in all state-owned higher institutions, if elected.

Obaseki made the promise in Ekpoma on Thursday during campaign.
He said the policy would ensure that under-privileged undergraduates were able to complete their education.

The governorship candidate said he would establish more infrastructure in Ekpoma to improve the education standard in the area.

He also promised to create 200, 000 jobs, saying some of the jobs would be created from e-commerce.
Also at Ewu in Esan Central Local Government Area, the APC standard bearer promised to give provision of pipe borne water a high priority to improve the health condition of people.

The governorship candidate pledged to collaborate with the new investor who acquired the Ewu Flour Mill to boost the economy through creation of jobs in the locality.

He said he would encourage agriculture, especially grains production to service the needs of the company if voted into office.

Gov. Adams Oshiomhole led the candidate and his running mate, Mr Philip Shaibu to pay courtesy visits to the palaces of the Onogie of Ekpoma, Anthony Ehizoje, Abumere II, and that of Ewu, Abdulrasak Esesele, Ojiefo III.

Both monarchs offered prayers and wished the candidate well in his endeavour (NAN)

Source: Vanguard

The election that saw President Muhammadu Buhari emerge as the president of Nigeria could be described as the most inclusive presidential election, after the all-out 1993 general election, which General Babangida annulled; it was recorded to have been the most peaceful election Nigeria ever had. You will agree with me that people are seeing things from the root now, and not from the flamboyant and fragrant flowers anymore. Nigerians don’t want to be deceived any longer, they don’t want looters for leaders any more, they don’t want to rest their hands on their cheeks to wait for years to pass, they now want leaders of repute.
The heartbeat of Nigeria will in some days witness the transition of power from the Comrade Governor to the hands of another leader. Edo state which was created on the 27th August, 1991 was in no shape some ten years back, as all the inland state in the southern Nigeria had was a government of failed promises. Then came in the change maker, Governor Adams Oshiomole, who rescued the drowning ship of Edo state. The former Nigeria Labour Congress President was determined to change the spate of things, and he has been changing things for the better. His administration undertook one of the greatest revolutions in Education in Nigeria, by reconstructing and rebuilding over 50% of primary school infrastructures and over 30% of secondary schools within the space of seven and half years. This progressive leader also constructed state-wide roads, and is still on the storm water project, among many other achievements.
If the transition within few years can put smile on the faces of the people, what then could be more desirable than continuity? When a drummer is drumming, and people are enjoying him, they fail to give credit to the drum producing the interesting sound, all that comes out of their mouth is, that drummer is the best. It would be interesting to note that Godwin Obaseki has been the drum sounding unnoticed; he has indeed played numerous and countless roles in the achievements of the Comrade Governor. If he can do that under the capacities he held, he would definitely make a good Governor.
Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki was born into the famous and illustrious family of Obaseki of Benin city. He didn’t try ignorance, and as a result, had his early education in St. Matthews Anglican Primary School Benin City, from where he proceeded to Eghosa Anglican Grammar School, also in Benin City. He graduated from Premier University, University of Ibadan, obtaining BA in classics. Godwin didn’t just stop there; he proceeded to study abroad where he bagged different degrees. He is a professional in what he has chosen for himself, as he is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Stock Brokers.
People are graduating away from celebrating mediocrity; everybody wants to work with intellectuals. Godwin began his career 30 years ago and has established track records in Investment Banking, Asset Management, Securities Trading and the Public Sector both internationally and in Nigeria. Godwin Obaseki has got all it takes to steer the boat of the state for the next four years. It would interest you to know that, he is currently the Chairman of the Edo Sate Government’s Economic and Strategy Team, a position he has held for years. He was responsible for the documentation of the State’s Economic Development Frame work through Sector’s Strategic Planning; he was also the brain behind the Introduction and Enculturation of Retreats as a platform to ensure all parties engagement.
Godwin was also the Chairman of the Tax Assessment Review Committee for Edo state Internal Revenue service, just as he was an active member of the Committee on Contributory Pension Scheme, just to mention a few. The mark of difference has been drawn, brilliant initiatives have also been transformed into what Edo state is today, the success story will not only end well for Governor Oshiomole, but the good times will continue for the good people of Edo State.
When the right things are in place, continuity should be the ultimate request of the people.

The election that saw President Muhammadu Buhari emerge as the president of Nigeria could be described as the most inclusive presidential election, after the all-out 1993 general election, which General Babangida annulled; it was recorded to have been the most peaceful election Nigeria ever had. You will agree with me that people are seeing things from the root now, and not from the flamboyant and fragrant flowers anymore. Nigerians don’t want to be deceived any longer, they don’t want looters for leaders any more, they don’t want to rest their hands on their cheeks to wait for years to pass, they now want leaders of repute.
The heartbeat of Nigeria will in some days witness the transition of power from the Comrade Governor to the hands of another leader. Edo state which was created on the 27th August, 1991 was in no shape some ten years back, as all the inland state in the southern Nigeria had was a government of failed promises. Then came in the change maker, Governor Adams Oshiomole, who rescued the drowning ship of Edo state. The former Nigeria Labour Congress President was determined to change the spate of things, and he has been changing things for the better. His administration undertook one of the greatest revolutions in Education in Nigeria, by reconstructing and rebuilding over 50% of primary school infrastructures and over 30% of secondary schools within the space of seven and half years. This progressive leader also constructed state-wide roads, and is still on the storm water project, among many other achievements.
If the transition within few years can put smile on the faces of the people, what then could be more desirable than continuity? When a drummer is drumming, and people are enjoying him, they fail to give credit to the drum producing the interesting sound, all that comes out of their mouth is, that drummer is the best. It would be interesting to note that Godwin Obaseki has been the drum sounding unnoticed; he has indeed played numerous and countless roles in the achievements of the Comrade Governor. If he can do that under the capacities he held, he would definitely make a good Governor.
Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki was born into the famous and illustrious family of Obaseki of Benin city. He didn’t try ignorance, and as a result, had his early education in St. Matthews Anglican Primary School Benin City, from where he proceeded to Eghosa Anglican Grammar School, also in Benin City. He graduated from Premier University, University of Ibadan, obtaining BA in classics. Godwin didn’t just stop there; he proceeded to study abroad where he bagged different degrees. He is a professional in what he has chosen for himself, as he is a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Stock Brokers.
People are graduating away from celebrating mediocrity; everybody wants to work with intellectuals. Godwin began his career 30 years ago and has established track records in Investment Banking, Asset Management, Securities Trading and the Public Sector both internationally and in Nigeria. Godwin Obaseki has got all it takes to steer the boat of the state for the next four years. It would interest you to know that, he is currently the Chairman of the Edo Sate Government’s Economic and Strategy Team, a position he has held for years. He was responsible for the documentation of the State’s Economic Development Frame work through Sector’s Strategic Planning; he was also the brain behind the Introduction and Enculturation of Retreats as a platform to ensure all parties engagement.
Godwin was also the Chairman of the Tax Assessment Review Committee for Edo state Internal Revenue service, just as he was an active member of the Committee on Contributory Pension Scheme, just to mention a few. The mark of difference has been drawn, brilliant initiatives have also been transformed into what Edo state is today, the success story will not only end well for Governor Oshiomole, but the good times will continue for the good people of Edo State.
When the right things are in place, continuity should be the ultimate request of the people.

THE President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Rev. Felix Omobude, has dismissed as mischievous and unfounded the rumoured plan by the Edo State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Saturday’s election, Mr Godwin Obaseki, to Islamize the state, if elected into the office.
The insinuation believed to be the handiwork of the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) supporters followed the total support being given to the APC in the state by the Hausa residents in the state.
But the PFN President, who commended Obaseki for his peaceful campaign, declared that nobody had the powers to Islamize the nation. While reminding political actors that only God could decide the next governor, he advised them to focus their campaigns on issues of governance.
Omobude gave the admonition when Obaseki paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Benin City, the state capital, noting that the constitution had stipulated that no one can impose a religion on another. His words: “The issue of anybody imposing religion on the other in Edo state is not an issue. Predominantly, this state is more of Christian, so we are not afraid. I think it beholds on all political office holders, wherever in the country to be fair to all and not to be seen as pushing one against the other. I have watched your campaign and I appreciate your objectivity. One can only pray that this election continue to be peaceful.”
“We will continue to uphold you in our prayers. I know that in the constitution, the provisions are there. And I also know that the operators sometimes complicate issues. Given what I know about you and what I can see, I believe that everyone will find peaceful atmosphere to practice his or her faith. I pray that God will guide you so that you can continue the way you have been conducting your campaign,” he added.
Responding, Obaseki regretted that the PDP had decided to embark on lies and propaganda rather than telling the people of the state what they intend to do.
He said: “I believe that politics should be focused on addressing issues that affect us every day. It shouldn’t be about personalities. What is important in politics is what each candidate or the party carries or can offer and supporting that with some antecedents and some demonstrable achievements or performance from the party. That is why my own campaign has been focused on issues and not on personalities or throwing insults or abuses. I noticed that there has been a bit of misinformation. They say it is part of politics but that is what we have to clean up.
The first issue has to do with religion. Our constitution is clear on religious freedom and it gives us the right and freedom to practice what we believe in. The constitution doesn’t allow you to impose your own belief or religion on any other person particularly the state. So when people talk about someone with an agenda to impose a certain type of religion on people, it is to misinform people and create crisis and confusion”, he added.
“One other unfortunate issue that is being peddled is about the state imposing taxes on religious activities. That again is wrong. The status is clear; churches, mosques, religious bodies are not supposed to pay tax and they don’t. I would rather focus on what I will do for the people while I am running for the office of the governor,” Obaseki further clarified.

THE Etuedoseghe, a socio-cultural organisation in Edo State, made up of chiefs from the palace of the Oba of Benin, farmers union and professionals led by the Esogban of Benin Kingdom, Chief David Edebiri, on Sunday endorsed the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.
The group in a statement on Sunday, said they endorsed Obaseki because of the laudable roles, he played in the Governor Adams Oshiomhole-led administration.
Esogban, who also is the Odionwere of Benin Kingdom, said, “We are not a partisan body in the sense that we don’t attend meetings of political parties but we are not oblivious to the good works of some political parties and the bad work of some other political parties.
“So, Etuodeseghe at a meeting held in my house, unanimously voted to support the candidature of Godwin Obaseki of the APC. This is the same place we endorsed Oshiomhole and today we are all proud of him. We believe that Godwin will work more than the Comrade Governor.”
The APC leaders at the event were led by the senatorial leader of the party in Edo South, Gentleman Amegor and the Director General of Obaseki Campaign Osarodion Ogie. Expressing joy for the endorsement, Obaseki vowed to make the state greater than he met it if voted into power.

Source: PUNCH

The governorship ambition of the All Progressives Congress (APC) standard in Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, received a major boost yesterday, as friends and business associates hosted a fundraiser in his honour at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos.

Themed: ‘An Evening With GO’, the event, which was well attended by top business leaders, captains of industry, party leaders and government functionaries, also served as the formal launch of ‘The Essential GO’ book – a testimonial biography on the life and passion of Godwin Obaseki.

In his Foreword to the book, the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, noted: “Godwin Obaseki is truly a remarkable figure with limitless talent, a big heart, and a self-effacing, down-to-earth personal style that gives no indication of his extraordinary accomplishments.”

“The Essential GO: An Insight into the Life & Passion of Godwin Obaseki is as much for those who have had a personal encounter with Godwin Obaseki as it is for those who haven’t. The underlying theme of the book, as mirrored by the exemplary life of Godwin Obaseki, is that true greatness can only be achieved through a life of purpose and service.”

Attesting to Obaseki’s enterprise, President and CEO of Dangote Industries Limited and Africa’s most successful businessman, Aliko Dangote, stated in the book: “After over three decades in business, I have learnt that personal integrity is as important as executive skill in business dealings, and Godwin has both in abundance.

“Godwin is a thoroughbred financial expert: His work with Afrinvest – and as a member of several government committees – speaks volumes of his abilities. Whether in private enterprise or public administration, I have absolutely no doubt that Godwin will make a success of any venture he aspires to.”

In his testimonial, the Director-General of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) stated, “Godwin is a sound professional who understands the linkages between business and the economic well being of the people. Perhaps, his strongest quality is his high integrity. His ‘can do’ attitude and friendly personality also make him a great and dependable leader.”

The Essential GO also featured statements by many other notable business leaders and financial experts including Hakeem Bello-Osagie, Chairman of Etisalat Nigeria; Asue Ighodalo, Chairman, Sterling Bank Plc; Phillips Oduoza, GMD, UBA Plc; Ike Chioke, MD, Afrinvest West Africa Limited; and Evelyn Oputu, former MD, Bank of Industry, among others. They extolled Obaseki’s strong values of honesty and diligence while also highlighting his exceptional business savvy, excellent administrative capacities, dynamic leadership style and commitment to service.

Responding to the outpouring of support at the event, Obaseki said: “I am deeply humbled by the vote of confidence passed on me by colleagues in the financial services sector and the business community at large. As Chairman of the Edo State Government’s Economic and Strategy Team since 2009, I have a firm grasp of the economic and developmental challenges of the state, and I pledge to use all my experience in my over 30 year career in the international and domestic corporate finance market to reengineer the economy of Edo State for the prosperity of the people.”

Among the business leaders in attendance were Dapo Osinusi, Chairman, Mansfield Energy; Asue Ighodalo, Chairman, Sterling Bank Plc; Peter Obaseki, Managing Director, First City Monument Bank; Ike Chioke, CEO of Afrinvest West Africa Limited; David Ladipo, Managing Director, Azura Power Limited; and Victor Ogiemwonyi, Managing Director, Partnership Investment Limited

Also present were key party leaders and government functionaries including Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Leader of the APC; Chief John Oyegun, National Chairman of the Party; Comrade Adams Oshiomole, Governor of Edo State; Akinwunmi Ambode, Governor of Lagos State; and Fashola.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship flag-bearer for Edo state, Godwin Obaseki Edo has outlined 10 things in his manifesto, which he’ll do for Edo people if he wins the September 10, 2016 governorship election.

Prepare to hold him to it if he wins!

1.) Focus on Job Creation

Within four years, we will create over 200,000 new jobs across the state through Agriculture, Entrepreneurship Schemes, Attracting Investments for the development of Industries and Technical & Vocational Skills Development. We will publish a template to be jointly used by the public and the civil society to track the achievement of this objective.

2.) Agriculture

In line with the popular aphorism that states give a man fish and you feed him for a day, but when you teach a man how to fish, you feed him forever, therefore our agricultural development model will reposition agriculture from being subsistence farming or a way of life to Agriculture as business. Many Edo people will generate wealth by keying into our value chain development of Oil Palm, Cassava, Cocoa, Grains, Rubber, Fruits and Vegetables, we will create over 150,000 jobs within the next 4 years under a farm ownership and management model or out-growers’ scheme.

3.) Entrepreneurship

Through the provision of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Loans at single digit interest rates, we will encourage micro and small businesses to grow, medium enterprises will become large companies on the long run. This will create over 50,000 jobs as we intend to support over 20,000 MSMEs in the next 4 years.

4.) Development of Industries

Currently the electricity demand in Edo State is over 450 mega watts but the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) is rationing about 150 mega watts of electricity between the four states it serves. We want to generate 20% of Nigeria’s electricity from plants sited in Edo State, so we will attract more investments in large and small scale electricity generation and working with the BEDC, we will ensure that more power is available for domestic and industrial use. We will also ensure that areas not previously connected will be linked with the electricity grid. Excess generation will be sold to the national grid.

5.) Women Empowerment

There is a saying that “the rain produces abundance wherever it falls”.
We will provide the enabling environment for women to achieve their highest potential by taking our women empowerment initiative beyond the phase of empowering women. We will empower society as a whole through the women because when we strengthen women we are empowering our domestic economy. We will advance government services when women occupy leadership positions.

6.) Youth Empowerment

In addition to providing access to Medium and Small Scale Enterprises financing for our young entrepreneurs, we will focus on the development of our youths through investments in sports, arts and crafts. Our key target will be to link these talents with resources to become globally competitive and access to markets to unlock their inherent potentials.

7.) Civil Service Reforms

I, Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki, this day the 16th of July 2016 pledge to build a strong Civil Service whose population will be proud to be identified as Edo State Civil Servants anywhere they find themselves. My Government will invest in training and capacity building of the civil service within a broad plan of refocusing the service to meet the 21st century governance demand.

8.) Infrastructure Expansion

We will consolidate the gains of the last seven and a half years by continuing the infrastructure revolution and urban renewal efforts. We will complete the improvement on the Education Infrastructure in the remaining schools and build new ones.

We will take our health care delivery to an international standard to reduce the need to travel abroad for health. Reports have it that Nigerians spends close to $2 billion in medical tourism to in India in 2015 alone.

9.) Security

As the Chief Security Officer of the state as enshrined in the Nigerian constitution, we will entrench law and order across the state by cultivating a government that is alive to the need to the security of lives, property and investments while speeding up dispute resolution and strengthening the criminal justice system.

10.) Tax Reforms

Bearing in mind our economic development initiatives which we will commence immediately upon assuming office and recognising the role of taxation in development, we will implement a pocket friendly tax regime to grow the tax base. In this regards I am quick to remember the words of an accomplished jurist Sandra-Day O’Conor, that no one learns more about a problem than the person at the bottom. I have been a private sector businessman paying taxes to government and also as a senior official of government helping with taxation management, I know the pains of taxation and the benefits that comes with responsible management of tax proceeds. Our government shall commit itself to a transparent management of tax payers resources at all times.

The Edo state All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship flag-bearer, Godwin Obaseki has promised to create 200,000 jobs.

Obaseki also said he will empower women in the state if he is elected as the Governor.

He also told newsmen that he will make Edo state the agricultural hub of the nation.

Adding that the focus of his administration will be to create jobs and promote industrialisation and entrepreneurship.

Obaseki said this while launching his governorship campaign at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Saturday, July 16, 2016 in Benin.

The governorship aspirant also promised to ensure constant electricity supply in the Edo state.

Obaseki promised to uphold the legacies of the current Governor, Adams Oshiomhole.

The Edo state Governorship elections is slated to hold on September 10, 2016.

The Etuedoseghe, a socio-cultural organisation in Edo State, made up of chiefs from the palace of the Oba of Benin, farmers union and professionals led by the Esogban of Benin Kingdom, Chief David Edebiri, on Sunday endorsed the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

The group in a statement on Sunday, said they endorsed Obaseki because of the laudable roles, he played in the Governor Adams Oshiomhole-led administration.

Esogban, who also is the Odionwere of Benin Kingdom, said, “We are not a partisan body in the sense that we don’t attend meetings of political parties but we are not oblivious to the good works of some political parties and the bad work of some other political parties. Consequently, we have the right to choose if those wanting a particular thing are more than one.

“So, Etuodeseghe at a meeting held in my house, unanimously voted to support the candidature of Godwin Obaseki of the APC. This is the same place we endorsed Oshiomhole and today we are all proud of him. We believe that Godwin will work more than the Comrade Governor.”

The APC leaders at the event were led by the senatorial leader of the party in Edo South, Gentleman Amegor and the Director General of Obaseki Campaign Osarodion Ogie. Expressing joy for the endorsement, Obaseki vowed to make the state greater than he met it if voted into power.

The Arewa Forum in Edo, has declared full support to the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Godwin Obaseki in the September 10 governorship election in the state.

The President-General of the forum, Alhaji Sahabi Umar, who disclosed this at a rally in Aduwawa on Friday, said the forum had started mobilising its people for the candidate.

The President-General stressed that Northerners residing in the eighteen local government areas of the state, would be fully mobilised to vote for Obaseki.

He based the forum’s decision to the support non indigenes enjoy under the administration of Gov. Adams Oshiomhole in the last seven years.

Umar explained that the administration had given appointment to members of the forum, and had treated any matter affecting them with dispatch.

He added that Oshiomhole has also done transformed the state especially in the area of infrastructure.

“We all know how Edo was before he came, and see what he has done within the last seven years. So, we will support what he supports.

“In the area of support, he has been there for the Hausas, and other non indigenes alike. But for us, the Arewa, we have commenced mobilizing our people across the state to support his candidate.

“Because Oshiomhole was good, we know that Obaseki will be wonderful,” he stated.

Mr Anselm Ojezua, chairman of the APC in the state, canvassed that a vote for Obaseki means continuation of Oshiomhole’s wonderful performance.

“For once, Edo is working. We have the pride of being one of the few states in the country that is still carrying our development projects and paying salaries in the face of the present economic challenges.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship candidate, Mr Godwin Obaseki has declared that he is own man as he dismissed insinuation that he is a puppet of incumbent governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomole noting that those who have lived off the state’s resources are the ones behind such claims.



Obaseki, who spoke in an interview in Benin City, the Edo state capital, explained that his vision is to build on what the APC government has done in the state for the past eight years.



The APC Governorship candidate explained that he was part of the main architects for the design of the current administration and that he has always had a voice in deciding the affairs of the state.



He ruled out doing anything radically different from what Oshiomole is doing as governor.



According to him, “There is nothing that has been done that I have not been part of. But sit back and think about it, what have we not done in the last eight years which we need to change? So when I hear people talk about remote control, yes, if I am going to be remote controlled to build more roads is that not good remote control?



“If I am going to be remote controlled to build more schools, to create jobs (is that not good remote controlled?) But I cannot be remote controlled to take public funds and distribute to people who are not adding value.



“So the noise you are hearing today is (from) people who want us to change that model of the last eight years where we have come in and effectively managed the resources of the state to try and put in place pro people policies.



“So the narrative you are hearing about Obaseki not being his own man…I don’t see myself doing anything radically different, in fact my goal is to progress on what we have started in the last eight years, which is essentially to try and get our people out of poverty and try getting the limited resources we have to more of our people and not just the few who have lived off the state.



“That’s the challenge. That’s the politics. That’s the argument. I am my own man,” he stressed.

This is definitely not a cheering moment for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the upcoming governorship election in Edo state, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu with the revelation that the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Mr Godwin Obaseki has trounced him in the social media.


The news report that analysed the trend showed a yawning gap between both leading candidates with the odds in favour of Obaseki. From the way things stood as at the time the report was written, Ize- Iyamu had about 2,818 followers on twitter, 4,919 on Facebook and 450 likes on his Facebook page. Obaseki on the other hand has a combined total of 63,243 followers from two official twitter handles, 75,000 followers on his Facebook page, 35,000 likes with an average view of 3,373 daily.


At best the PDP would maintain an ill-advised silence and later a kneejerk reaction. When the reality of this development sink deeper, the PDP camp would immediately try to wave aside what is now almost an unofficial exit poll – predicting a taste of the drubbing that Obaseki’s main opponent is likely to receive at the polls come September 7. One argument they will contrive against Obaseki’s online dominance would be based on the notion that those on the social media do not register to vote.


Recent research findings have however made mincemeat of this mindset. A remarkable seven out of every ten persons that could get online to would be at the polling stations to cast their ballots, which makes the current trend the harbinger of defeat for the PDP as the online pattern would be repeated offline at the various polling units.


To have disregarded the reality that more Edo people are now connected has proven to be the PDP’s and its candidate’s greatest undoing. They already lag behind by an unimaginable margin and the best they could achieve under the circumstances is to attempt narrowing the gap. Any thought of a win would qualify as clinical hallucination.


As for the argument that those active online scarcely vote, the 2015 General Election mistake in this regard costed the PDP greatly as it wrongly dismissed discontent expressed by cyber communities as the ranting of the non-voting segment of the country at that time. The last time the social media and online community were less influential in election matters on these shores was in 2011. Obaseki’s social media following has thus basically sealed the deal for him, not just because his online assets would vote for him but because they are opinion moulders and great influencers.


A second reaction would be for the PDP campaign to attempt tinkering with the figures. They would go after inorganic followers and use paid strategies to drive online following. This would be as bad as the rigging charade that the PDP was known for in the 16 years it held sway at the federal level. The same way Ize-Iyamu’s party failed to positively impact the electorates’ lives in the false hope of resorting to rigging it had also failed to realise that APC’s Obaseki has massive online following because of what they know he is coming to build upon.


Obaseki has presented a blueprint that will move Edo state to the next level and his campaign speeches so far have shown a man who is not going it alone but has rather made the Edo State project the people’s own. He has articulated how he wants to build the future of Edo State by sorting out issues of basic human needs in the state; health care; access to quality education and provision of security while addressing the issue of revenue generation in way that leaves the people of the state as the winners. On top of this, the APC candidate has promised to restore socio-cultural values in a state where cultists are brave enough to attempt taking over.


The same cannot be said of Ize-Iyamu, whose idea of a campaign has remained in the same era as his lack of attention to what happens online. Each time he or his team and party members climb the soap box it is to hurl abuses and make claims for which they have no facts. Those who at this rallies apparently were present there for the entertainment value as findings have also shown that only three out of every 10 people that showed up to listen to the vitriolic would show up at the polling booth; and Ize-Iyamu has done a poor job of convincing even this measly number to vote for him.


To compound this candidate’s woes, each time anyone using the internet searches for his name the result would be crowded with histories of his association and primacy in an administration that ran the state aground in his hey days as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG). Somewhere in the mix are links to the invitation he had to keep with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). His sting as a cultist is barely encouraging. So how does he seriously expect someone to see all these and still follow him online not to talk of voting him at the polls.

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The candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the forthcoming governorship election in Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, dismissed allegation by the Peoples Democratic Party that he received millions of naira as salaries as the head of the state’s economy and strategy team.

The PDP state Chairman, Chief Dan Orbih, had during the party’s rally in Orhionmwon on Monday accused Obaseki of allegedly deceiving the citizens with claims that he (Obaseki) worked without any remuneration under the state government.

Orbih had also displayed documents, which he claimed were vouchers for payments allegedly made to the APC candidate.

But Obaseki, in a statement by the Director-General (Media and Publicity) of his campaign organisation, Abass Braimah, on Wednesday described the allegations as “tissues of lies”, adding that both the PDP and its candidate were “jealous” of his credentials and selfless service to the state.

Braimah said, “We believe that (Osagie) Ize-Iyamu and Orbih are jealous of the credentials of Obaseki and because all they do in the party is business, they cannot believe that somebody can make sacrifices for his people.

“Orbih and his factional candidate are fond of fabricating lies, particularly when it comes to displaying fake tellers.

“When has Orbih become a staff of the Accounts department of the state government to be able to be in possession of tellers, which are supposed to be official document?”

“We are inviting the police to investigate the matter because the PDP are known for forgery and misleading the public. Obaseki has not earned a kobo as salary from the state government and he should be commended.”Ize-Iyamu jealous of my credentials – Obaseki

[size=8pt][size=8pt]The 11 survivors of the March 8 collapsed Lekki Gardens building were yesterday empowered by the firm to start life afresh.

Lekki Gardens Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Richard Nyong gave a tricycle and N50,000 cash to each of the survivors “to start some business and pick up the pieces of their lives” again. The event took place at the firm’s premises in Lekki.

Nyong described the gesture as the first step to redress the damage they suffered from the incident.

He said: “On behalf of the board this is to show deepest concern and regret and to say sorry to the people that lost so much. The company’s decision is to begin to help in whatever way to correct what went wrong. In trying to do something meaningful we lost our friends, some died and some were wounded, it was a very difficult situation for everybody. We are very hurt by the accident but God saved our lives. It is very hurtful and painful, it could have been anybody.”

According to him, no money is enough to start life again, but “the survivors can use whatever we give them now to pick up the pieces of their lives. The little money could turn out to be seeds of greatness. We pray that God will continue to help everybody affected by that incident to come out of the trauma.”

He commiserated with the bereaved families, promising that the company also has plans to take care of them. “We are starting with the ones that are alive and very soon we shall also invite them and present to them what we have for them.”

Nyong thanked the Lagos State Government, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Federal Government emergency agencies and the general hospital for their help during the incident.

A Lekki Gardens building under construction collapsed on March 8, killing scores of people and injuring others, mostly workers.

The beneficiaries are Elechi Chika, Tunde Busari, Waliu Rasak, Emeka Okorie, Wahab Olalude, Kayode Ezekiel, Chikodi James, Chukwudi James, Idowu Salawu, Hassan Isiaku and Tajudeen Ajani.

Speaking on behalf of others, Elechi thanked Lekki Gardens for the gesture.

“They were always in the hospital to encourage us and now they have capped it up with these empowerment items, we appreciate them.

“They took very good care of us”, Elechi said.

via The Nation Newspaper
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I think this is a good move by Lekki Gardens and Richard Nyong.

[size=8pt][size=8pt]The 11 survivors of the March 8 collapsed Lekki Gardens building were yesterday empowered by the firm to start life afresh.

Lekki Gardens Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Richard Nyong gave a tricycle and N50,000 cash to each of the survivors “to start some business and pick up the pieces of their lives” again. The event took place at the firm’s premises in Lekki.

Nyong described the gesture as the first step to redress the damage they suffered from the incident.

He said: “On behalf of the board this is to show deepest concern and regret and to say sorry to the people that lost so much. The company’s decision is to begin to help in whatever way to correct what went wrong. In trying to do something meaningful we lost our friends, some died and some were wounded, it was a very difficult situation for everybody. We are very hurt by the accident but God saved our lives. It is very hurtful and painful, it could have been anybody.”

According to him, no money is enough to start life again, but “the survivors can use whatever we give them now to pick up the pieces of their lives. The little money could turn out to be seeds of greatness. We pray that God will continue to help everybody affected by that incident to come out of the trauma.”

He commiserated with the bereaved families, promising that the company also has plans to take care of them. “We are starting with the ones that are alive and very soon we shall also invite them and present to them what we have for them.”

Nyong thanked the Lagos State Government, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Federal Government emergency agencies and the general hospital for their help during the incident.

A Lekki Gardens building under construction collapsed on March 8, killing scores of people and injuring others, mostly workers.

The beneficiaries are Elechi Chika, Tunde Busari, Waliu Rasak, Emeka Okorie, Wahab Olalude, Kayode Ezekiel, Chikodi James, Chukwudi James, Idowu Salawu, Hassan Isiaku and Tajudeen Ajani.

Speaking on behalf of others, Elechi thanked Lekki Gardens for the gesture.

“They were always in the hospital to encourage us and now they have capped it up with these empowerment items, we appreciate them.

“They took very good care of us”, Elechi said.

via The Nation Newspaper
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I think this is a good move by Lekki Gardens and Richard Nyong.

what should he have brought? is he not the governor? is the estate not in his state? will the estate not benefit people of the state?

Okijajuju1:
www.nairaland.com/attachments/3899593_investorsconfidenceontheriseinriversstatesaysgovernorwike12_jpeg4dac2ebf25149a4d7910b4fe8aa77f5e



So Wike brought his podium to commission a private estate.








Wike, when will you complete the Firstbank Estate started by Amaechi? Atleast that one is a Rivers State Government PPP project.