₦airaland Forum

Edo State Government has begun move to release bona fide students of the Ambrose Alli University who were remanded to Correctional Centre for protesting against incessant kidnapping in Ekpoma, Esan West local government area.

The students were among 52 persons arrested and subsequently remanded to the Ubiaja Correctional Centre.

Governor Monday Okpebholo deployed Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, to facilitate release of the students.

Speaking to journalists at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre, Dr. Iyamu said bona fide students of AAU would walk home free after all processes were perfected.

He said last week's violent protest in Ekpoma was orchestrated by a group identified as the 'Comrade Association'.

Dr. Iyamu noted that the Comrade Association comprised of former students who used any opportunity to latch on to cause mayhem.

He said, "There is a lot of misinformation going around especially on the social media. I wonder how a protest will occur without the authorisation of the Student Union Government. The school is not in sessions and the students were not involved.

"We have a group tagged the Comrade Association that coopt students to carry out the dastardly act. There was no letter written to the security about any protest.

"These are ex-students of the university looking for an opportunity to latch on any problem and cause mayhem. They went to the House of the traditional ruler, took indomie and other things. That character does not depict students. His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has said that any bona fide students be release and walk home free"

President of the AAU SUG, Osadebamwen Ehizojie, commended the Governor for ensuring release of the students.

He said AAU students did not start the protest adding that it was hijacked by hoodlums.

Insecurity: Group blames Police Commissioner, Exonerates Gov Okpebholo

A Socio-Cultural group in Edo State, Esan Akhugbe Otiti social cultural group has called on the Edo state Police Commissioner, Monday Agbonika, to urgently address cases of kidnappings in Esan land.

Iyere blamed the lingering security challenges in Ekpoma and parts of Edo Central Senatorial District on the Nigeria Police and other security agencies

In a statement by Mr. Iyere Sunday, it's President, the group insisted that the Edo State Government, under Governor Monday Okpebholo, has demonstrated clear commitment to tackling insecurity.

The President added that the security agencies, particularly the Police Commissioner, must step up his game because massive investments had been made to support security operations across the state, particularly in Edo Central.

According to him, we have it on records because I was physically present when the Governor in November last year, donated 10 brand-new Toyota Hilux patrol vehicles to the Nigeria Police Force, Irrua Area Command.

"During the handing over of the vehicles, the governor warned that the vehicles must strictly be used to strengthen patrols and rapid response within the senatorial district.

"This donation was in addition to the earlier provision of 100 Hilux patrol vehicles to security agencies across Edo State in the early days of the administration.

"Beyond the vehicles, over 400 motorbikes were also donated to security agencies to enhance mobility, especially in hard-to-reach areas. With all these resources, security is supposed to improve significantly.

"So, why are we blaming the governor for everything? Did the security agencies in Edo Central not also receive the intervention?”

He further pointed out that the state government recently launched decisive security actions through the Edo State Special Security Squad, code-named Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists, which carried out raids in Uromi, leading to the demolition of houses linked to cultism and kidnapping.

He said, "The government has shown seriousness. If houses linked to cult activities and kidnapping can be identified and demolished, how can anyone say the government is not doing anything. Rather,we should be asking the CP where are these investments."

Iyere also highlighted the recruitment and training of over 2,500 local vigilante operatives by the state government, many of whom were absorbed into the Edo State Security Corps.

He stressed that Edo Central benefitted substantially from the initiative, describing it as one of the largest grassroots security interventions in the state’s history within such a short time of an administration in office.

To further underscore his point, the Esan group leader referenced a recent incident in Jattu, Etsako West Local Government Area, where nine kidnapped victims were rescued by local vigilante operatives.

“These are vigilantees who received similar training across the state. If they can rescue kidnapped victims in Jattu, it means the strategy works.

"The question now is, are the conventional security agencies doing enough with the resources and support available to them?” he queried.

Iyere argued that while the government must continue to support security agencies, the agencies themselves must be held accountable for operational lapses.

“Why are people not asking the police commissioner and other security agencies questions? Government provides vehicles, motorcycles, trained manpower and logistics, but implementation lies with the security agencies.

"We must be honest enough to say everyone has a role to play,” he asked.

He called on communities to also support security efforts by providing timely and credible intelligence, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.

“I think we should be ready to do our part, just as the government is doing its part. Blaming the governor alone will not solve the problem.

"Accountability, cooperation and sincerity from all stakeholders are what we need to secure Esan land and Edo State at large,” Iyere concluded," he concluded.

Okpebholo vows to tackle kidnapping in Edo

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has vowed to tackle the challenges of insecurity, particularly kidnapping, in the state.

The goernor made the vow while co
condemning the attack on the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma, His Royal Highness, Zaiki Anthony Ehizojie Abumere II, following a protest in Ekpoma that resulted in the blockage of a major highway and widespread destruction of property.

According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Patrick Ebojele, the governor stated this when he visited the palace to personally assess the damage allegedly caused by protesters who invaded the traditional institution under the guise of expressing grievances over insecurity.

Governor Okpebholo was accompanied by top government officials, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), including the state chairman, Emperor Jarrett Tenebe; Edo Central Senatorial leader, General Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd); and other party stakeholders.

During the visit, the governor was taken round the palace and shown several items destroyed during the invasion.

Vehicles within the palace compound were vandalised, while canopies and chairs were broken. Cartons of Indomie noodles belonging to the Enojie’s wife, who trades in the product, were also destroyed. Doors and windows of the palace were damaged.

Governor Okpebholo described the invasion of the palace and the looting of property as criminal and unacceptable, stressing that protests must never be used as an excuse for lawlessness.

“Kidnapping is a serious problem across Nigeria, and that is why the President has taken bold steps, including withdrawing police from VIP duties, to strengthen the fight against insecurity,” he stated.

He disclosed that a security meeting was held earlier in the week with a strong focus on Edo Central Senatorial District, particularly the Ekpoma axis, adding that the government had rolled out strategic, technology-driven security operations.

“We have carried out operations in Edo North and Edo South, and now we are in Edo Central. We will leave no stone unturned.

"The first operation was very successful—nine kidnapped persons in Etsako West were rescued unhurt and the kidnappers were arrested,” he stated.

Governor Okpebholo warned that those who hijacked the protest to vandalise the palace and loot property would be brought to justice.

“They came under the guise of protest and sentiments, then resorted to looting and violence. This is unacceptable. We will go after them the same way we are going after kidnappers. Nobody should test our patience,” he said.

Emphasising his personal stake in the peace of Ekpoma and Esan land, the governor added, “I am an Esan man and I got my highest votes here in Ekpoma.

"I will not allow bad things to happen in this land. In the coming days, our actions will speak for themselves. Nobody involved in this criminality will be spared.”

Earlier, the Onojie Zaiki Anthony Ehizojie Abumere II, described the incident as unfortunate, alleging that many of the protesters were under the influence of illicit drugs.

“What transpired was very sad. Many of them were under the influence of drugs. If not for God’s intervention, something worse would have happened,” the monarch said.

He explained that he attempted to address the protesters when they first arrived but was prevented from doing so.

According to him, the protesters later returned while he was away attending a security meeting with other traditional rulers, forced their way into the palace, and unleashed violence.

Enang unveils plan to reform Nigeria's medical profession

A Professor of Internal Medicine at the University of Calabar (Unical), Ofem Enang, on Saturday unveiled plan to reform the Nigeria medical profession for better service delivery.

Enang unveiled the plan in Calabar, while formally declaring his intention to lead the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) at the national level before doctors in the state.

He said that the profession has been battered by poor welfare, insecurity, mass emigration, eroded earnings, and broken agreements by the government.

According to him, the Nigerian medical profession has reached a breaking point. It is in view of this, that today I am unveiling an ambitious reform blueprint tagged “Renaissance 2026 – The Rebirth of Excellence".

"The deepening crisis facing Nigerian doctors is not a failure of individuals but of systems and only bold, united, and reform-driven leadership can reverse the decline."

He explained that Renaissance 2026 was built on five pillars, with doctors’ welfare as the foundation.

He also vowed to work with the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) to resolve salary arrears, promotion backlogs, unsafe work hours, allowance distortions and full implementation of collective bargaining agreements.

The NMA presidential hopeful further said that there would be zero tolerance for assault, kidnapping, or killing of doctors.

According to him, a country that cannot protect its healthcare workers cannot protect its people.

He also promised to tackle long-standing housing and retirement challenges by advocating national mortgage schemes for doctors at single-digit interest rates.

Enang further said that he would advocate for predictable pensions, post-retirement health insurance, and dignified exit pathways for senior colleagues.

He said he would also ensure the strengthening of healthcare delivery through economic empowerment measures for private practitioners, including tax reliefs, fair electricity tariffs and renewable energy incentives.

He further announced plans to champion a Bank of Medicine to provide low-interest funding for hospital expansion, equipment, and innovation.

"If given the opportunity to lead the NMA, I will ensure the establishment of a Tertiary Healthcare Fund to sustainably finance teaching hospitals, residency training, research, and infrastructure.

"I will also push for reforms to protect the integrity of medical training and global recognition of Nigerian qualifications," he said.

Enang while addressing recent killings and kidnappings of doctors in Edo and Enugu state, expressed solidarity with affected families and colleagues, describing the incidents as evidence of worsening national insecurity.

He also declared support for resident doctors amid renewed industrial tensions, and urged the federal government to honor all agreements reached with NARD to avert another healthcare shutdown.

He further promised to reunite a fractured NMA, pursue transparent leadership, credible electoral reforms and a gradual transition to One Doctor, One Vote, while rebuilding the association’s moral authority and influence in national policy making.

“This is not about ambition; it is about restoration,” he added.

He therefore called on doctors at home and in the diaspora to support what he described as a movement to restore dignity, unity and excellence to the profession.

Traders Lauds Okpebholo Over Oba Market Reconstruction

Traders, business owners, and residents around the Oba Market axis in Benin City have commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for the impressive pace and quality of work on the ongoing reconstruction of Oba Market in Oredo Local Government Area of the state.

Dr Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to the governor stated this in a statement made available to newsmen in Benin on Sunday.

According to the statement, the stakeholders described the intervention as timely and reassuring.

They noted that the governor’s commitment and regular inspection visits to the project site have renewed confidence among traders who were previously displaced.

The reconstruction being carried out under the Okpebholo-led administration, is progressing steadily, with the governor personally monitoring the level and quality of work to ensure that the project meets modern standards and is delivered within record time.

Mrs. Faith Edos, a trader, said the market was in a deplorable state before the governor’s intervention, adding that the reconstruction has restored hope to traders and business owners.

“Before Governor Okpebholo came in, this market was in a very bad condition. Today, we are happy because he has rescued the situation by rebuilding a market that will have modern facilities,” she said.

Another trader, Mrs. Itohan Idamudia described the governor as a promise keeper, stating that traders were abandoned for years despite repeated assurances by the immediate past administration.

“The Obaseki-led administration made several promises to rebuild this market, but nothing was done. Governor Okpebholo has shown that he is serious. Gradually, the market is taking shape, and we are grateful,” she said.

Ebojele explained that the Oba Market, which is one of the major commercial centres in Benin City, was first gutted by fire in June 2020, destroying several shops and goods worth millions of naira.

He noted that the inferno was caused by a faulty solar panel in one of the shops, which spread rapidly to other sections of the market.

He said that the ongoing reconstruction, displaced traders are optimistic that the project will restore businesses and significantly boost commercial activities in the area and across Edo State.

The governor's spokesman said upon completion, the revamped Oba Market is expected to be equipped with modern facilities, including 24-hour electricity supply, internet connectivity, a Primary Health Centre, and other amenities designed to enhance efficiency, safety, and convenience for traders and customers alike.

CNS pledges improved patrols, welfare boost for personnel

The Chief of Naval Staff (CoS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has pledged to ensure improved welfare for personnel and more patrols on the Maritime waterways.

The Vice Admiral disclosed this in Calabar on Wednesday at the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) during an on the spot assessment of the command.

According to him, "I am Here for an on the spot assessment of our operations, and like you have said, I have also gone round to check the ongoing buildings.

" Those are welfare issues, and for us to be able to have our men ready and keep us secured, their welfare needs to be catered for.

"So we are here to kill two birds with one stone, basically operations and welfare issues.

" I am happy with what the command is doing. It's doing well in terms of keeping the Maritime environment safe.

"We will continue doing what we are doing and improve on that which is patrol of the waters and increase in that area of surveillance."

As part of his visit, Vice Admiral Abbas commissioned the 12x1 Junior Rates Accommodation Block A and B at the Navy Barracks at Atimbo in Calabar.

The Naval Chief also inspected other ongoing projects in the Akim Barracks,1006 flats, and the Navy hotel all within Calabar.

Carnival Calabar: heritage, pride, shared identity of C'River says lawmaker

Mr Hilary Bisong, Chief Whip of the Cross River State House of Assembly (CRSHA) has described the annual Carnival Calabar as more than a festival, but a symbol of the state's heritage, pride, and shared identity.

He stated this in a terse statement titled "Celebrating Excellence: Governor Otu’s December of Culture, Unity, and Growth" and made available to newsmen in Calabar.

The CRSHA Chief Whip Bisong hailed Governor Bassey Otu over the recently concluded celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Carnival Calabar.

Bisong, who represents Boki I State constituency, described the 2025 Carnival Calabar as historic in every sense and celebration of culture and tourism potentials that abound in the state.

He stated that Carnival Calabar was not only a festive season, but a period of transformation and renewed pride for Cross River state.

The statement reads in part: "As we begin the new year, it is only right to celebrate the remarkable leadership of Gov Bassey Edet Otu.

"The festival was a world-class celebration that showcased the very best of our state and reaffirmed Cross River’s position as Nigeria’s premier destination for culture and tourism

"From the upgraded streets and dazzling Christmas lights to visible security and meticulous planning, Governor Otu showed what it means to lead with vision, care, and purpose. Our people felt seen, valued, and proud of their state.

"The 20th Anniversary of Carnival Calabar was historic in every sense. For 32 days, Cross River pulsed with music, color, and culture.

"Carnival bands performed with energy, hospitality services excelled, and cultural displays reflected the Governor’s unwavering support.

"Governor Otu also demonstrated the power of unity. By bringing past governors together to celebrate two decades of Carnival Calabar, he reminded us that progress grows strongest when history is respected."

Bisong noted that the act of collaboration reinforced that Carnival Calabar is more than a festival, it is a symbol of our heritage, pride, and shared identity.

"Beyond the celebrations, the economic impact was evident. MSMEs flourished, artisans found opportunities, hotels overflowed, and thousands of jobs were created.

"Carnival Calabar 2025 proved that culture is not just jou, but is enterprise, empowerment, and a catalyst for growth. Cross River State rose as a beacon of opportunity, creativity, and excellence," he stated.

He commended the governor for vision, courage, and unwavering commitment to the people of Cross River.

He concluded, saying, "December 2025 reminded us of our strength, unity, and limitless potential. Cross River has not only celebrated, but it has risen."

In this interview, Sen Gershom Bassey, who represented Cross driver South senatorial district, spoke on various issues ranging from his alleged defection rumour from PDP to APC or ADC, the rumour of contesting for governorship seat in 2027 to electoral reforms.

*Excerpts* :

*How did you feel about losing out on that Governorship contest after the 2027 election cycle?*


I have spoken extensively about the 2023 elections. For me, it was a movement and the experience was bittersweet. It was bitter in some respects and sweet in others.

The bitter aspect was that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a party I love deeply, made a fatal mistake that led to its near collapse in Cross River State. That error can be traced directly to decisions taken during the 2023 elections, and the results spoke for themselves.

We lost the governorship, the deputy governorship, 22 House of Assembly seats, the Senate seats, and several House of Representatives seats. Virtually everything was lost. The only position the party managed to retain them was a Senate seat in the North, and even that was by a very narrow margin. Today, the North is also gone.

This was particularly painful because the PDP was once a dominant force in Cross River State. The party produced three governors, consistently controlled between 90 and 100 percent of the House of Assembly, and held all National Assembly seats for many years. Before 2023, the last non-PDP candidate to win a National Assembly seat in the state was Florence Ita Giwa. After her, no other party had succeeded until 2023. All of that collapsed for one simple reason. The PDP failed to listen to the people.

*What exactly went wrong ?*

The strength of the PDP had always been its ability to listen to the people. Whether at the local government, councillorship, or state level, the party usually respected existing arrangements and sentiments.In 2023, however, the party became arrogant and assumed it could impose candidates on the people.

The people of Cross River State were clear that power should rotate and that it was the turn of the South. That sentiment was widespread across the state, but the PDP ignored it and insisted that the ticket could come from anywhere.Times had changed, but the party did not adjust. By abandoning the very principle that guaranteed its success, it set itself up for failure. This, we lost woefully.

*What was the sweet experience of losing an election?*

The sweet part that Cross Riverians stayed true to the founding principles of the state. From the Calabar-Ogoja Accord, the understanding has always been that power should rotate among the senatorial districts.

In 2023, many of us wondered if the people truly believed in zoning or if it was just political rhetoric. But the election results answered that question clearly. The people spoke loudly through their votes. The PDP, which picked its candidate from the wrong zone, lost overwhelmingly. Even its governorship candidate lost his own local government. Meanwhile, the APC, which respected zoning, swept the field.

That made me very proud as a Cross Riverian. People from the North, Central, and South rallied behind the southern candidate because it was the South’s turn. That unity was remarkable.

*There are concerns that Nigeria may be drifting towards a one party system. What is your reaction?*

I am concerned, but I am not overly worried. History has shown that political dominance comes and goes. I strongly believe in multi- party democracy as enshrined in our Constitution. When constitutional principles are ignored so openly, there is little one can do beyond trusting that things will eventually correct themselves.

I am a believer in a multi-party democracy in Nigeria. Politics is not all about grabbing power, but also an ample opportunity to ensure good governance in the society either through a coalition or a political party platform.

Sometimes in politics you will see a party that has never taken over governance, but still remains relevant in the society. Go to the UK for example, you will see a party like the Green party or even the Liberal democrats. These are political parties that are not particular about power.

Green party has not held power. Apart from the coalition they entered into with the Conservatives, yet people join them. Personally speaking, politics cannot just be the quest for power.

If you take a politician like our President today, Bola Tinubu, he was in the then AD or ACN and someone once described him as the last man standing. Recall the 2003 elections, all the states in the southwest moved to the PDP, except Lagos state. Yet, Bola Tinubu did not move.

We once had 28 PDP governors in this country. This same thing that is happening in APC now; its not new. It happened to the party, but Tinubu stayed behind. He held his ground across several electioneering circles; he did not move. He had enough friends in PDP to protect his interest, and had ample opportunity to also move to PDP, but he stood his ground on principle. That’s one of the things I respect Tinubu for; he is a man of principle.

If you are copying someone, copy him well. So, for me, I am copying Tinubu on his principled stance on the issue of defection. I am copying his principled stance in politics. He is a principled politician.

*What Efforts are being put in place to rebuild PDP*

The PDP entered a phase of self-destruction after the elections, something unprecedented in my view. Much of it was driven from Abuja and aided by certain elements within the state.

Personally, I have not made any dramatic moves. I have simply observed events. Politics has cycles, and this phase will end eventually. Many serious people have left the PDP, and the party today is only a shadow of what it once was. Still, some of us have remainednand continue to watch.

*So do you think the PDP in Cross River State has any future?*

Yes, there is a future for every political party. We may not clearly see that future right now, but it exists. The party will not implode. It will evolve, though the direction is not yet clear.


*It is rumoured that you have plans to contest for political office in 2027*

Not at the moment. I am not thinking about elective office right now. I am still watching.

*How can you assess the APC government*

The truth is that many Nigerians are suffering under current policies. This is not propaganda. It is a reality felt across all social classes.

However, I do not believe in judging a government at halftime. Governments should be assessed at the end of their tenure. While expectations have not been met so far, we must wait and see how things unfold.

*What pieces of advice do you have for the current APC government in view of economic hardships*

In my opinion, the removal of fuel subsidy was rushed. If subsidy removal was inevitable, it should have been gradual and preceded by strong infrastructure, security, and social safety nets.

Many governments across the world make policy reversals when necessary. A U-turn is not a failure. What matters is whether a policy works. Right now, the effects of subsidy removal are hurting citizens.

*Political observers argue that there is urgent need for the Electoral Act amendments ahead of 2027*

One major issue is the electronic transmission of results. The intention was to create a foolproof system where results from polling units uploaded to the IReV could be independently verified by the public and matched with results announced by INEC.

In 2023, that system failed due to technical issues. One proposal is to codify the process into law rather than leaving it to regulations.

Another issue is the exclusion of automatic delegates during party primaries. That gap in the law disenfranchised many party leaders. I hope the National Assembly restores automatic delegates.

*What are your views on tax reforms?*

I am not a believer in high taxation. It is better to have a broad tax base where people willingly pay than to impose excessive taxes.

I have not studied the new tax law in detail, but I understand that the threshold for taxation has been raised, which is positive. However, blocking all tax loopholes without first providing basic services like electricity, water, and security can suffocate citizens. Government must allow people room to breathe.

*There are speculations that you are about defecting to APC or ADC*

I have no intention of joining the APC, though as a politician, I never say never. As for ADC, I have not defected. I am still in the PDP, but I am a sympathiser of the coalition movement. ADC is only one component of that coalition.I am a member of the coalition. I am very interested in the coalition. I am still in the PDP for now.

But I urge the new coalition championed by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to embark on a self-cleansing exercise in order to reset her priority. The formation of the coalition was not a bad idea, but there is need to have square peg in a square hole in order for the group to achieve her set goals.

When the coalition berthed in the state they were lots of enthusiasm. The ADC vehicle has some work to do; internal work to do so that the initial enthusiasm can be fully expressed

Politics is not always about immediate power. Some parties may not win elections for years but still stand for principles. Bola Tinubu himself remained in opposition for several election cycles before becoming president.

Standing by one’s principles sometimes matters more than chasing power.

*How can you assess Governor Bassey Otu's administration so far*


Of course, leaders often have a broader view of governance and may not always feel the direct impact of certain policies the way citizens do.


Form the areas where I have had personal knowledge and could clearly assess progress are in security and infrastructure. There are noticeable improvements recorded in those sectors.


However, he urged the governor to see criticism as a tool for growth rather than hostility, noting that while some criticisms may be misplaced or unconstructive, many contain valuable insights that can help leaders perform better. I advise against turning critics into enemies.


Leaders should especially pay attention to criticism expressed in a respectful and constructive manner. Listening to dissenting voices would not only strengthen leadership but also promote inclusiveness and better decision making.

Edo Govt Condoles Family of Slain Doctor, Reiterates Commitment to Tackling Insecurity


The Edo State government has described the recent abduction and killing of Dr Abu Momoh Tahir in Auchi as unfortunate, painful and deeply regretable, assuring the public that the incident does not deminish the resolve of the state to sustain and intensify its fight against kidnapping and other crime.

In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Patrick Ebojele Ph.D, the government noted that the existential threat of kidnapping has become a worrisome issue that has taken more than a devoted attention of government.

According to the statement, "But for our intervention and the quality of what we have invested in curbing kidnapping, the spate would have been more alarming than what we presently have."

The statement quoted governor Monday Okpebholo to have said that his administration has relentlessly been providing solutions to several security challenges in the state

"The peaceful and crime-free yuletide celebration is an indication of our commitment to making Edo state safe for all.

The incident of the doctor's kidnap was quite unfortunate, painful, and regrettable, as it tended to cast a slur on our spirited efforts at addressing this challenge.

Before the yuletide season, men of the Operation Rescue carried out a holistic bush combing exercise across Auchi, Agenebode, Okpella, Fugar, and Owan areas to expose kidnappers' den.

"The exercise was not only successful, the number of persons arrested and being prosecuted presently underscored the extent of the exercise," he stated.

He further stated that the Operation Rescue team was able to destroy quite a number of hide-outs of these kidnappers aside from the arrest, while some were also killed in the cause of fire power exchanges in the forests.

"This is to make the point that the government is not resting on its oars, and the initial perennial incidences of kidnapping have been decimated to its lowest ebb. Our deliberate effort to nip the issue in the bud has yielded a lot of successes, and we are determined to make Edo safe for all.

"What we expect from members of the Edo public is a show of solidarity and cooperation, particularly in the area of intelligence sharing with men of the Operation Rescue and other security agencies.

"Security concerns are a function of both the government and the people they govern. It is a collective indulgence that should not be left in the hands of the government alone.

"We feel pained as a government that the kidnappers claimed the life of Dr. Abu Momoh Tahir, at a time, we thought we had gotten to the safer corridor of our security engagement.

"We will continue to improve on our effort to make Edo non-habitable for crimes and criminalities as we call on all to be vigilant around their environment at all times.

"If anyone observes strange movements around their vicinity, appropriate report should be given to the law enforcement agents without delay.

"We condole with the family of Dr. Abu Momoh Tahir over this avoidable death. We wish to assure the public that those who carried out this dastardly act will be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law. They surely will not escape the long arms of the law," he concluded.

“You Voted for Me for Development, Not Stories” — Okpebholo Restates Mission at Benin Town Hall

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has restated that his administration remains firmly focused on one mission: delivering visible, people-centred development across Edo State.

The governor said the mandate given to him by Edo people was clear and non-negotiable, stressing that nothing would distract his government from transforming the state.

According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele Ph.D, the governor spoke in Benin City at a town hall meeting with members of the Akpakomiza Movement for Tinubu, also known as Team FIGO-Connect.

In the town hall meeting, Okpebholo reminded his supporters that their votes were cast with development in mind.

“You voted for me for a reason, and that reason is the development of Edo State,” the governor declared. “I have a clear vision to move Edo from an ancient city to a modern city, and I am not losing focus.”

He explained that projects currently ongoing across the state are based on the real needs of communities, not personal or political interests, noting that his leadership style is guided by firsthand experience of the challenges faced by residents.

Recalling a campaign visit to Temboga, the governor said the scale of gully erosion in the area left a lasting impression on him and influenced his development priorities.

“I went to Temboga and I couldn’t even walk inside because of the depth of the gully erosion. I promised the people I would return if elected, and I kept that promise. Today, the results are visible,” Okpebholo said.

He added that development should not be seen as a personal achievement of the governor but a collective success driven by the will of the people.

“Without your votes, I wouldn’t be here. So there is no special thank you to me. What we are seeing today belongs to all of us,” he stated.

On accountability, the governor noted that his administration receives the same statutory allocation as previous governments but has chosen to invest funds in projects with long-term impact.

“Our work will speak for us. A time will come when Edo people will ask questions and demand accountability,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, describing them as bold and people-focused. He cited the removal of fuel subsidy and recent tax reforms, noting that Nigerians earning below ₦150,000 are now exempt from paying tax.

“Our president is carrying the common man along. Leakages have been blocked, and those who were feeding fat on the old system are now uncomfortable,” he said.

He listed ongoing projects such as the durable reconstruction of Sapele Road, erosion control and road works in Ogheghe, as well as interventions in long-neglected public schools, as proof of his administration’s commitment to sustainable development in Edo State.

The meeting was attended by the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Emperor Jarrett Tenebe; Commissioner for Energy and Water Resources, Barrister Washington Osifo; members of the Edo State Executive Council; and other party leaders.

Also present were members of the Labour Party’s Obedient Movement, who announced the collapse of their structures in Edo State and declared support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Edo State Obedient Movement coordinator, Comrade Ikhuenbor Felix Igbinevbo, said the decision was based on confidence in President Tinubu’s reform agenda.

“About 95 percent of those here are members of the Obedient Movement and Labour Party stakeholders. We supported Peter Obi in 2023, but we have resolved to support President Tinubu for a second term because we believe his reforms will benefit the common man,” he said.

The town hall ended with renewed assurances of support for Governor Okpebholo, as participants pledged to work together to sustain development and economic growth across Edo State.

Traders, motorists and residents around Ikpoba Hill and Ramat Park axis in Benin City have expressed strong support for the ongoing construction of the first flyover bridge in Edo State under the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo.

They described the project as a major boost to economic activities, traffic flow and urban renewal.

Speaking to journalists recently on the impact of the project, Mr. Lawrence Agwanhima said the flyover would significantly improve both the economy and aesthetics of the area.

“It will improve the economy of this environment and also improve the beauty of this place. Before now, movement here was difficult, but this flyover is a good one. Let the governor continue the good work. God will bless him throughout his tenure,” he said.

Addressing concerns about hoodlums occupying spaces under the bridge, Agwanhima dismissed such fears, noting that similar challenges existed even before the project and should not be used to stall development.

Also speaking, Mrs. Ese Juliet said the flyover would bring lasting relief to the persistent traffic congestion experienced along the Ikpoba Hill axis, particularly on market days.

“There is always traffic on this road, especially during market days. As it is now, we thank God that traffic will reduce after the bridge. My advice to the government is that they should try and complete it on time and also expand the road so that traffic will not return,” she said.

A fresh chicken seller at Ramat Park, Master David Okhaishebor, a student of Army Day School described the flyover as an innovative intervention that would ease movement and improve business activities.

“The flyover is good. We thank the governor for the innovation. At least, hold-up will reduce and cars, Keke and other vehicles will move smoothly. It will be good if the bridge is fenced so that people without homes will not sleep under it and mess up the place,” he added.

Mr. Chijioke Akaru, who has operated a pharmacy shop at Ramat Park for over 30 years, said the project would have a positive economic impact on the state.

“The flyover they are doing will improve the economy of Edo State and reduce go-slow at Ikpoba Hill. I thank the state government for this. I have been here for more than 30 years and I know what traffic has done to businesses here,” he stated.

The Ikpoba Hill flyover is a flagship infrastructure project of the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration, aimed at easing traffic congestion, boosting economic activities and improving the overall outlook of Benin City.

Residents remain hopeful that timely completion of the project will further enhance mobility and support sustainable development across Edo State.