₦airaland Forum

Money gives the audacity to yan nonsense

Walai:
To imagine I paid 12k in a Federal University during GEJ regime.

Started with 10k under Late President Umaru Yaradua and later ended with 12k under Former President Jonathan.

EERC needs to be encouraged for coming out to speak in the interest of Enugu people and I think this should force Genco’s and Disco’s to be live and up rather than rip consumers of their hard end money with their outdated electricity infrastructure. Many people here don’t even know that consumers contribute money to fix electric issues whenever there’s challenges in their locality which is not supposed to be. Genco’s and Disco’s excess needs to be checkmated at all time and I support EERC for taking the bold action

Casham:
My cousin just told me last night that she just got raped on Sunday afternoon/evening (6th July, 2025).

I stay with them for now. She's 18, the first of two daughters and was still virgin (as far as I know). Her only [older] brother is in school.

She's been acting funny since on Sunday evening. She couldn't hold it in anymore and, since there is no one else she could actually confide in, she confided in me. Now she's begging me not to tell anyone and not to cause trouble. She only wants me to help her get a drug (if any) that will prevent pregnancy.

She told me about the man coming to see her in her mother's restaurant and said she was going to talk to the man about getting me a job, but when she went into his car, he forced himself on her.

Honestly I am angry right now! I am angry at three things:

First, I am angry at my family. I have a family where the children are afraid to open up, because if you do, you will be blamed and castigated upon. I understand her fear and apprehension about letting other people know, but I just can't let this go.

Secondly, I am angry at our society. How can a man confidently feels he can force himself on a lady and get away with it? What kind of society do we have?

Thirdly, I am angry at myself. I am angry because I feel helpless. I can't let this thing go. I have to deal with this man, but I don't know how to do it without putting my cousin in a difficult position. I have tried to let her know that it is not her fault and that the man needs to pay for this, but she's been begging me to just let it go. She only confided in me because she's really scared of getting pregnant.

According to her though, there was never any real penetration, but the man (who is a high ranking government official) actually "released" ON her, not IN her. (Does that even make sense?)
How can I handle this issue right now? For me, I am planning to go all out and let hell break loose and let the heavens fall if they have to.

If you want justice for your cousin and be glad you did, you have to look for the nearest human rights activist lawyer and report this matter fast. They will get his details and justice serve fresh in hot form.

Supreme Court pay slip loading and if you don’t get it, forget about it. I shall know say the transaction go fail and enemies of Edo shall be put to same, watch out.
Akpakomusa the new taker like a friend said anywhere you see am, bill am cause he dey pay like maye.

In less than seven months as inec imposed, these guys has taken the state dip down the retrogressive path from where he succeeded his predecessor and Edo South mostly victimised.

Again like my elder learned colleague ask, who will speak for Edo south??

It’s sad what inec has done to Edo people

shortgun:
Wike is still bitter over the lose he suffered in the hands of Atiku in the last PDP primaries then went everywhere ranting about betrayal when he's the greatest betrayer.
PDPs presidential ticket was to be zoned to the South, specifically to the Southeast but Wike using in influence on the chairman of the zoning committee, his ally then Gov. Urtom to open the contest to all regions thinking he will emerge as PDPs candidate.




After the primaries, Atiku visited Wike in his residence to mend fences but instead wike choose to work against the party simply because he lost out in a contest where Atiku beat him to his game of money politics

You just nailed it as it unfolded then. Now he has be beaten ahead of his game and he knows fully that if he falls this time around, tinubu will dish him for the next available and he has started to bark like a toothless dog again.

Maxymilliano:
If this calculation is true, there is need for tax reform bill so that every state would receive exactly what they contribute.

Edo State is not doing bad tho, kudos to Obaseki

Edo use to be number four or Five but no thanks to akpakomiza and his lack of economic management which is taking toll on Edo economy hence limiting business activities and engagement

OVER 100 DAYS OF SORROW, TEARS, AND BLOOD IN EDO STATE: EXAMINING THE REIGN OF MONDAY OKPEBHOLO.

For over 100 days, Edo State has endured a downward spiral under Governor Monday Okpebholo. His administration, devoid of vision and direction, has reduced governance to a basic, uninspiring exercise in political patronage. Instead of consolidating on the gains of the previous government—which prioritized infrastructure, human capital development, and institutional reforms—Okpebholo has handed the state over to non-state actors, emboldened criminal elements, and turned governance into an exclusive party affair.

What was once a dynamic and progressive state under Godwin Obaseki has now become a shadow of itself. The vision of an Edo where government worked for the people has been replaced by a rudderless leadership that thrives on mediocrity, lawlessness, and reckless partisanship.

From people's centered governance to state capture

The Obaseki administration, despite its flaws, was defined by strategic investments in infrastructure, education, technology, and pristine public service reforms culminating in the empowerment of ordinary Edo citizens. From projects like the Edo Tech Park and EdoJobs to critical road networks and industrialization efforts, governance was structured around improving lives and giving all Edo indigenes and residents equal access to the dividends of good governance and productive leadership. Government policies were data-driven, and transparency was a guiding principle.

In stark contrast, Okpebholo’s government has abandoned these progressive policies, replacing them with a patronage system that prioritizes party loyalists over competent governance. His administration has no clear economic roadmap, no policy direction, and no plans for industrial growth. Instead of investing in education, innovation, and job creation, he has reintroduced a rent-seeking culture where government is merely a means of enriching political associates and underlings.

Rather than governing for all Edo people, Okpebholo has chosen to run a government for the APC alone—one where state resources are redirected to settle political allies and appease the so-called "lions and tigers." The state’s institutions are being politicized, and appointments are made based on party loyalty rather than merit. Edo people have been sidelined in their own government, watching helplessly as power is concentrated in the hands of a few for personal partisan gains.

A Government of political thugs,not the people

One of the most glaring failures of Okpebholo’s government is its dangerous embrace of non-state actors. Within weeks of assuming office, notorious figures—infamous for their involvement in intimidation and street violence—became de facto power brokers in Edo State. These individuals, who were sidelined during the Obaseki administration for their destabilizing roles, have now been fully reintegrated into government.

By doing this, Okpebholo has signaled that his administration is more interested in consolidating the power of political enforcers than in ensuring peace and development. The “lions and tigers,” long known for their roles in electoral violence and extortion, now roam freely, emboldened by state backing. The streets of Edo are no longer safe, as these elements exploit their newfound legitimacy to terrorize citizens, seize public property, and operate with absolute impunity.

Obaseki’s administration worked tirelessly to dismantle this culture of political thuggery, strengthening state institutions to function without interference from political actors. His government restored order in public service, ended multiple taxation imposed by non-state actors, and reclaimed markets from thugs who extorted traders. Under Okpebholo, these achievements are being systematically undone. Edo is once again falling into the grip of individuals who see governance as an avenue for personal enrichment and control.

Insecurity: Edo people left to fend for themselves

Under Okpebholo’s watch, insecurity in Edo has escalated to an all-time high. Reports of kidnappings, armed robberies, Herdsmen attacks, and cult-related violence have skyrocketed, yet the government remains inactive. Instead of addressing these challenges head-on, the administration has resorted to token gestures—parading confiscated weapons and distributing a few security vehicles while the state continues to descend into lawlessness.

What is even more alarming is that the very people the government should be protecting citizens from have become its enforcers. Okpebholo has blurred the lines between governance and criminality, making it difficult for Edo people to differentiate between state-sanctioned security personnel and political thugs. This has created an atmosphere of fear, where citizens are unsure whether they are safer with or without government intervention.

The return of rent seekers: looters back in business

If there was any hope that Okpebholo’s government would focus on development, that hope has been dashed. Instead of rolling out policies to grow Edo’s economy, his administration has opened the floodgates for rent-seekers—career politicians who view government as an ATM. Government patronage and appointments are dispensed based on loyalty rather than competence, and individuals with no track record of governance or success in noble endeavors are being given sensitive positions solely because of their affiliations.

Under Obaseki, Edo saw a deliberate effort to reduce government waste, attract private investment, and build sustainable economic structures. The Okpebholo government, however, has reversed this approach. Financial prudence has been abandoned, and state resources are being plundered with reckless abandon. Businesses that thrived under the previous administration are now struggling under the weight of multiple taxation, harassment, and a lack of government support.

A doomed future: the urgent need to reclaim Edo state for Edo

In just 100 days, Okpebholo has taken Edo State backwards by several years. His government is uninspiring, rudderless, and bereft of the dynamism that characterized the previous administration. He has chosen partisan loyalty over competence, thuggery over governance, and lawlessness over order.

If this downward trend continues, Edo will be completely ruined by the very people who claim to be leading it. The state is heading towards total anarchy unless the people rise to resist this hijacking of their future. Edo does not belong to political thugs, rent-seekers, or opportunists—it belongs to the people.

The time to act is now. Edo people must demand a government that works for them—not one that thrives on sorrow, tears, and blood.

The Judiciary: the last hope for Edo people

As Edo people continue to suffer under the weight of Monday Okpebholo’s disastrous administration, their last hope lies in the one institution that still holds the power to correct the injustices of this fraudulent era—the Judiciary.

Throughout history, the Judiciary has served as the refuge of the oppressed, the last line of defense for democracy, and the ultimate guardian of justice. Now, more than ever, it must rise to its sacred duty. The people of Edo did not vote for chaos, thuggery, and misgovernance. The refusal of Nigerians to troop out during the supplementary elections was not a sign of indifference—it was a protest, a silent cry to the Judiciary for justice.

The task before the courts is immense. Political pressure, corruption, and threats loom large. But despite these forces, the Judiciary has an opportunity to etch its name in history—as the institution that restored stolen mandates and upheld the will of the people, or as the body that surrendered to power and subverted democracy.

This is the question of our time: Will the Judiciary ensure substantive justice, allowing its decisions to reflect the true will of Edo people as expressed at the polls? Or will it become a mere tool for the continuation of politics by other means, delivering judgments tainted by bias, influence, and compromise?

If democracy is to mean anything in Nigeria, the Judiciary must not only interpret the law—it must hear the echoes of the people’s voices, the frustration of a disenfranchised majority, and the urgency of this moment. The courts must give ventilation to the wishes of Edo citizens, reaffirming that elections are not theatrical exercises where results are predetermined by powerful actors, but genuine reflections of the people’s choice.

For democracy to thrive, elections must be free, fair, and respected—not hijacked, manipulated, or overturned by non-state actors and their political sponsors. When mandates are stolen, it is the Judiciary that must stand as the last line of defense. When the people's rights are trampled upon, it is the Judiciary that must restore them.

A failure to act decisively and justly in this defining moment would deal a catastrophic blow to our democracy, deepening public distrust in the electoral process and reinforcing the belief that votes do not count. But should the courts rise above pressure, intimidation, and political interference, and deliver justice to whom it is due, they will not only be saving Edo State—they will be saving Nigeria.

Edo people are watching. Nigerians are watching. History is watching. The Judiciary must choose—will it be remembered as the institution that upheld democracy or the one that buried it?

The time to act is now. Justice must not only be done; it must be seen to be done manifestly.

Daniel A. Noah Osa-Ogbegie, a private legal practitioner and an Apostle of Edo renaissance, writes from an Island called Evborogbon.

*Shaibu disagrees with Oshiomhole over use of thugs to collect revenue*

By Gidigba Group

Under Obaseki's governorship, Edo State former deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, held sway and was seen championing a flurry of projects; the revamp of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium was championed by Shaibu, COVID-19 relief materials championed by Shaibu, Sports development in Edo championed by Shaibu, Shaibu was virtually in charge of the management of revenues in Edo, all under Obaseki's watch.

On several occasions, we saw Philip Shaibu act as governor when Obaseki went on vacation, giving directives without Obaseki's interference, afterall, he is acting governor.

Unlike Pius Odubu and now Dennis Idahosa, who was/is incapacitated as deputy governors, Philip Shaibu enjoyed all privileges as deputy governor, because Obaseki gave the room; it is concerning that a deputy governor who became the most popular DG in Nigeria under Obaseki, is now comparing Okpebholo's 100 days of squalor to Obaseki's eight years of remarkable achievements; we must all put Shaibu in our prayers.

Shaibu who started off as House of Assembly Member in Edo, became a Member of the House of Reps, climbing to the number two seat in Edo, appears not to have recovered from his failed attempt to stop the movement of power to Edo Central, a determination Obaseki saw materialised by throwing his weight behind Asue Ighodalo, an accomplished lawyer, father and business man.

Like we infered in one of our releases yesterday, that attempts to ridicule and undermine Obaseki's imprints in Edo, will make one appear stupid, this submission was emboldened yesterday when on Channels Television, we saw Philip Shaibu attract an outpour of condemnations when he attempted to rate Okpebholo over Obaseki in a Channels interview of Wednesday.

Yes, we understand that politics may be a "dirty game", players must however, reserve some modicum of integrity, so as not to appear obsessed with power, desperately searching for relevance, and become victims of their own obsession; again, let us worry for Shaibu.

In eight years, Obaseki solidified institutional governance in Edo, deviating radically from Oshiomhole's analog style, the immediate past governor built a digital revenue generating system, trippling Edo's revenue generation board, a feat that Shaibu admired for the seven years plus he reigned as deputy governor.

That Oshiomhole and Shaibu developed bad blood is due partly to Oshiomhole's attempt to resist Obaseki's reforms, particularly in the area of revenue as seen in this video; only a dog goes back to his vomit.

Today, the streets of Edo are littered with a retinue of thugs, unjustifiably collecting one form of money or another from low earners in the name of revenue, market unions are disorganized and market women have become divided like never before; there is palpable fear in the minds of our people as bandits occupy our forests taking lives at their whim and caprice; Okpebholo's promised insecurity appears fulfilled as kidnappings and terrorism takes centre stage in Ovia and parts of Edo North.

Perhaps, former deputy governor Shaibu is unaware that the digitalized civil and public service platforms he joined Obaseki to build is now dysfunctional, and we are back to paper dispensation.

Conclusively, Shaibu may wish to halt his tv, radio appearances in the mean time; if he however insists on talking, he should not attempt whatsoever, to demonize Obaseki's unrivaled achievements, so he does not expose his inadequacies and incure for himself another round of gbas-gbos like we saw yesterday.

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/15wQBeTjbR/

See iron bender sorry INEC select that has not speak in public for once to tell the public in detail what are his plans and how he intends to fulfils his vision in government is spreading lies in an attempt to commissions Gov. Obaseki’s project to mark 100 days in office.
May God Edo people from the hands of this clown and the thugs he has brought back to the streets of Benin harassing innocent traders and motorists before his shot stay at Dennis Osadebe Avenue end.

SeverusSnape:
The man don try na 96 years na play?
Besides, He was among those that warned against this demonic regime.
We can all see that his warnings were genuine, Elders see ahead.

Rest in peace great man.

The only Yoruba man that stood for nothing but the truth till his last breath. Doff my hat for him

mrbonesy2k:
Getting better....

What breed is your dog?

Ojuntana:
Unfortunately, from the pictures, the people that were called were more of politicians than the real people of Ogoni kingdom

i hope the people will be carried along instead of these chop-I-chop politicians else the whole thing might end up being a waste of time

The focus should not be oil as it seems to be the driving force but more importantly environmental restoration, economic resuscitation and social justice
for Ogoniland instead of the audio declarations the minister is making

Also, the oil wells should not become another national cake to settle friends and cronies. The indigenes should benefit from the allocation of oil wells as well. That is where the big issue is cause we know how Ebilokan does his thing. Lagos-Calabar highway of fraud is an example

You’re the only comment that has make sense here, other is either lace with sentiment or trash. Are you from Ogoni by the way?

Faber:
Have you heard of Abia Palm in Ohambele , in Abia State... You have to drive 2 hrs drive through the plantation...

Have you also heard of Ada palms in Imo state... Okumo and Presco dey learn... I was at Presco this week, Presco in Obagie community, after Azagba community. Presco is too small to Ada palms in Imo state

As at recent reports has it that Edo has the largest palm plantation in Africa. You made mention of Prescott plantation in Ikpobahoka LGA but you just have to visit Okomu plantation in Ovia North East and I can assured that it’s like you’re in another state inside Edo state. Please try and visit Okomu plantation in odigi and neighbouring communities in Ovia North East next time you visit Edo. God bless former Governor Godwin Obaseki for this visionary transformation

Tottenham is the most useless London club of all time. Very useless players and management.
Two goals early lead they bottled it.
Now those Noise FC football club of London won't let us heard word now.
😡😡😡

Hope you slept well last night

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo has said that reforms by his administration in the digital and technology space over the last eight years have revolutionised the state.

The Governor who stated this on Friday at the launch of the Edo State Digital Policy and Edo Data Centre, disclosed that was the first data centre owned by a state in Nigeria.

According to him, his reforms had repositioned Edo as a leading state in digital inclusion in Nigeria, adding that his government was leveraging technology as a catalyst for socio-economic development and inclusive growth.

He said: “I welcome you to the only data center owned by a state in Nigeria. This event is significant because we have started a revolution in Edo State, a digital revolution. We are rounding up with a policy statement that will guide this revolution into the future.

“The population of Edo is scaled towards the youths as they are born in a digital age. The future is digital. It will be difficult to navigate the world today without technology. If you want to develop and grow rapidly, you must begin to think of how to use technology.

“The pace of the advancement of technology in the world today is scary. So, just imagine those who have not started yet; I don’t think they can live in the future world. In Edo, we have always been ahead in our history. We have been a knowledgeable people as we interacted at a global level over 500 years ago on our own level.

“To catch up, we had to do something else and different. That was why from the beginning it was clear to us that we had to introduce technology and make sure that we begin to retrain our young ones, the youths, to own this digital world and the confidence in it.”

Obaseki added: “We have moved Edo into the digital superhighway and to operate on that superhighway, they must know the rules and must be guided by certain rules and practices. That is what we are doing today and incorporating in this policy document. This will enable everybody to understand the shape of this high way and what they need to do on this high way.”

The governor continued: “I had the privilege of working with young people in Edo State and working together, we set up EdoJobs and the Edo Innovate Hub as these have helped our young people and till date, over 50,000 young men and women have benefited from various training and programmes from Edo Innovate. We have been lucky to build a digital ecosystem which has grown rapidly.

“Years ago, as the Chairman of the State’s Economy Team, we set up the ICTA but we struggled all through but we kept it alive, and set up the law governing it. The agency is principally responsible for providing technology for the government.

“I am proud today of what we have done in Edo State which is all-encompassing as no aspect of government in Edo State that has not been digitized or in the process of digitization. All Government jobs have been digitized, and it is not difficult to operate in Edo as files can’t miss again.”

He said: “Technology has made it easy for our children to learn in school through the EdoBEST programme. We have over 400,000 children in our public schools. We have data in all our public schools, teachers, parents and ward of our pupils.

“You can go to any of our primary healthcare centers today without seeing your records, especially if you have registered and with our health insurance. Security, healthcare, agriculture, education and other areas, we have introduced technology.

Published 23 hours ago on November 2, 2024 By Chike Onwuegbuchi

It hasn’t affected my eating plans rather my budget plans. Though I knew it was going to affect Nigeria economy as a result of changes in government and has to plan ahead but never expected it get to this levy and all this affected my budget plans.

Sirmwill:
Wike look like Metro too much




Okay okay

Why does this country continue to pay foreign companies for construction projects in Nigeria
Am I missing something?
Are the engineering students or graduates in Nigeria not capable to do these constructions from start to finish
In 2024!!! 😶

Are you not surprised to know that with the number of professors in our university, no institution has been able to generate electricity to run any of the universities

Governor Godwin Nogeghase Obaseki

I voted him as my best governor as a result of the good works and transformation he has added to governance in Edo state. Let me mention some of his achievements 1. Gov. Obaseki’s administration has raise the bar from paperless to running governance online, something that is next to non in present day Nigeria 2. Gov. Obaseki’s days in office has grown Edo economy by over 140pecent from what he inherited from his predecessor and this has open the state for growth and development as investors come into the state across the 18 local government with the sole aim of increasing their investment 3. Gov. Obaseki’s intervention in our Educational Policy has drawn attention from outside and inside the country that has also portray edo in the positive direction too. 4. Gov. Obaseki’s administration is the only one bold enough to complete projects abandoned by military regimes. The list are numerous but I will drop pen here

You have earned my commendation from afar. Thanks for the kindhearted sir. Adaal Bendel!

drugBaronTINUBU:
Idahosa is in court challenging APC candidate
Oshiomole has refused to recognised your candidate
But here u are behaving like an idiot you are

But If this makes u sleep tonight
Congratulations

You get time to dey reply the Otodo

.

slaawomirr:
Damnnn niggar

Otien in Bini language


My niggar from another mother

If not for security reasons I for say make we hang out for Benin city smoke enough weed, drink enough bottles then carry slim beautiful babes

Make Una try cease fire na, person nor fit hang out again for festive period again. Even Guinness don cancel shows

*Ovia North East Residents pour Praise on Council Boss as grading of East Roads is intensified across the thirteen wards of the Local Government Area.*

Residents of Ovia North East Local Government Area, have hailed the Visible impact of the Local Government Council Boss Honourable Collins Osamede Ogbewe for his unwavering Commitment to improving the plight of the people.

They made this known when the Chairman was on his regular inspection of the grading exercises that is been carried out across the thirteen wards in the Local Government Area.

Addressing the Chairman as a Promise Keeper, the Assistant Odionwere of Oniaro Community in Isiuwa ward Pa Sunday Oruhe noted that for Honorable Ogbewe to have kept to his promise to the people of the Community within the Short period was an indication that the Council Boss was a different breed of politician as he advice others who are in Political positions to Emulates him.

Pa Sunday narrated how the Council Boss promised to grad the road during his Campaign Consultation Visit to the ward when they inform him of thier difficulties in gaining access to town through their road due to the bad conditions of the road.

He further revealed that since the existence of the Community it was the first time any Local Government Chairman will be attending to their plight.

And for that made a pledge that the people of the Community will always stand with the Chairman all through his tenure in Office while praying for God to take the council Chairman to higher political Office so that more people can benefit from his amazing Leadership qualities.

Also Speaking on behalf of the youths in the community the Okhaighele Nosakhere Iserhienrhie, describe the Chairman as a refined Edo youth with unprecedented style of Leadership when he Said.

"Mr Chairman Sir on behalf of the entire Youths of Oniaro Communty i wish to thank you for displaying that we the youth has a refined person like you in Government who has a clear understanding of Governance and Leadership.

Sir we have been following your activities since your assumption to Office, as your actions are always gear towards uplighting the welfare of the people.

My Chairman Sir today you have taken that action of yours to our community by grading our roads, we can't thank you enough Sir but what we can assure you is that whenever you call upon us for whatsoever reason we will stand by you and your party as our own way of thanking you for this great work you have done for us". He added.

Overwhelmed by the show of love and Appreciation by the People,the Council Boss Honourable Collins Osamede Ogbewe noted that what he was doing are the normal duties expected from him as he stated that he was elected to office by the people and for so reasons he had no choice but to work for the people as well.

He further stressed that as a Local Government Chairman, he want to replicate what the State Governor His Excellency Governor Godwin Obaseki is doing.

By working for the benefit of the people who entrusted them with their mandates, a philosophy he says has now been imbibe by all those in Leadership positions both in the Edo State Government and the People's Democratic Party in the State, He noted.

*Hon Matthew send new year massage to Edo south citizen*


….calls for unity


Top PDP chieftain in Edo south senatorial district, Hon Matthew Ekhibirobo, on Monday urged Party faithfuls to be steadfast, patriotic and optimistic in the new year.

Hon Matthew, who made the call in is Idunowina County home, while distributing gifts to his constituents as part of his annual end of year activities, called on well-meaning Nigerians to embrace philanthropy.

He applauded party faithful for their continued support for the PDP party and public officials elected under the party at all levels from the governor to the ward councillor.

Hon Matthew stressed the need for leaders at all levels of government to ensure that the welfare of the people remained a top priority in their agenda.

He added that the PDP is one big family and we must continue to work and support PDP at all level. He also thank the governor, His excellency Governor Godwin Obaseki for executing remarkable projects across Edo south. Saying Edo south has never had it this better since the return of democracy, on this ground we must continue to support the governor for a credible successor and ensure PDP must win the forthcoming gubernatorial election to consolidate on the good work and foundation laid by Governor Obaseki. He also appeal for more cooperation and support to PDP elected Local Government Chairmen, House of Assembly members and Councillors.

Hon Matthew said, “as we begin the new year, it is imperative to reflect on our achievements and challenges as individuals and as a nation.

“No doubt, 2023 was a year of sober reflection and celebrations.

Happy New Year and wishing you all a prosperous and joyous year

Hon Collins Present #4.5Billion 2024 Budget to Council Assembly


… As Assembly passes vote of confidence on Council Chairman


Executive Chairman of Ovia North East Local Government, Hon. Collins Osamede Ogbewe on Thurday presented a budget estimate of N4,534,805,822.29 Billion Naira, christened “Budget of Service Delivery” to the Local Government Legislative Assembly for the 2024 fiscal year.

The 2024 budget is a Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB) is made up of N1,851,000,193.56 capital expenditure and N2,683,805,822.29 recurrent expenditure, representing ratio of 55:45 of recurrent to capital expenditure. The budget, according to the Council Chairman, is a product of wider consultation with Ovia North East people.

Hon. Collins explained that the overall focus of the budget is to sustain his administration’s quest for shared prosperity through the five pillar agenda of the government.

He highlighted the objectives of the 2024 budget to include creating enabling environment for micro, small and medium enterprises to thrive through friendly policies and provision of infrastructure; achieving shared prosperity through collaboration, compassion, fiscal prudence and quality service delivery; expand the revenue base in the area of internally generated revenue, and to also ensure timely completion of on-going developmental projects through equitable and effective distribution and allocation of available resources.

He also said the budget would provide a veritable platform for youths and women empowerment, skill acquisition and entrepreneur development; strengthen the security architecture within Ovia North East; cushion the effect of petrol subsidy removal; guarantee food security and support agro allied industry as well as further promote good governance through budget discipline, probity and accountability in the allocation and utilization of government fund, among others.

On capital projects, Hon, Collins, who explained that his government is not unmindful of the importance of capital project on the socio economic development of the local government said his administration would embark on numbers of projects without compromising the well-being of the people of Ovia North East

He outlined the critical projects in the 2024 budget which is the outcome of citizens engagement and the work plans developed by MDAs to include, capital project and empowerment of artisans, youths and women, urban renewal/ development projects, agriculture and related value-chain development, road rehabilitation, among others.

Hon. Collins said a top priority is being accorded the health sector to provide quality and affordable healthcare services as well as urgent renovation of health facilities equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.

While on Agriculture and food security, he said his government would improve agricultural productivity through provision of improved seed and seedlings, and enhance extension services, expand rural and feeder roads to boost the distribution of agricultural produce to both existing and new markets and also deepen the value-chain.

“In contrast to the conventional incremental budgeting system, Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB) approach was adopted in the preparation of 2024 Budget.


“The Government continues to comply with the Open Government Policy and adopted the bottom-up approach to develop the draft fiscal document. To ensure inclusivity, I held citizen engagement/Town Hall meeting in the thirteen Wards. This was done to take inputs from the populace towards the proposed 2024 Budget and receive feedbacks on the programmes and activities of Government, and ensure sustainability of the projects/programme implemented in the communities. The overall focus of the Budget is to sustain our quest for Shared Prosperity through the Five-Pillar Agenda of Government.

“Mr Speaker, the Government is mindful of the catalytic impact of capital projects on the socio-economic development of the Local Government. This administration is therefore undeterred in its commitment to ensure speedy infrastructural development in Ovia North East. The Government, in 2024, will embark on a good number of capital projects without compromising the immediate well-being of the people. To this end, the sum of N1,851,000,193.56 has been proposed for capital expenditure in the 2024 fiscal year.

While expressing his profound gratitude to the Leader and members of Ovia North East Legislative Assembly for their cooperation and support to the Executive Arm of Government without any fear of contradiction, the Council Chairman called on investors, Development Partners and Ovia North East citizens, home and in the diaspora to make Ovia North East their destination of choice for business and pleasure.

He added that Ovia North East is very open to business, and has an enabling policy and institutional framework that would ensure prudency, transparency and accountability in all its obligations.

Earlier in his welcome speech, the Leader of the House, Hon. Omoruyi Igbenake commended Hon. Collins for his notable giant strides at developing the Local Government, through focus on the mantra of keeping Ovia North East working towards shared prosperity aimed to achieve an inclusive society where every citizen is presented with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed.

House Majority Leader, Rt. Hon. Harryson commended Hon. Collins for his efforts at prioritizing investment in education to ensure that every child in Ovia North East has access to quality education and opportunity to demonstrate their potentials to the fullest.

Hon. Ogido, noted that, government has provided platforms for an egalitarian society that encourages entrepreneurships, attracts investments and creates sustainable jobs by investing in critical sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare and digital innovation to drive economic growth and development.
The Legislator however reiterated the commitment of this assembly to fulfil its responsibilities to the people by ensuring diligent scrutiny of the budget proposal and align it with the vision of shared prosperity, social justice and sustainable development.

Also at the event were the Vice Chairman, Mrs Efosa Uyigue, Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Efe Idahor, Head of Local Government Administrative, Mr Richard Edenamiegho, Director of Finance, Mrs Abu, Special Adviser to the Council Chairman on Political Matters, Hon Ibizugbe Clement, supervising Councilors, members of the local government Executive Council.

NEW YEAR MESSAGE by the Executive Chairman of Ovia North East LGA, Hon. Collins Osamede Ogbewe

My Good People of Ovia North East, I felicitate with everyone, both at home and in the diaspora, it is with utmost gratitude to God and continuous thanks to your support and loyalty to our Government that I wholeheartedly on behalf of the entire Council welcome you to this great year!

The years have gone by and indeed many lessons have been learnt from challenges we faced even as many celebrations we have danced to by reasons of our collective victory as a people.
One thing that remains strongly bounded in our hearts is that we must as people irrespective of where we are and what levels or sector we function continue to improvise and discover new ways of doing things in other to explore new frontiers for our collective developments. And the government of Ovia North East is ready to lead in this direction.

The challenges of the past year have thought us as a people and as a government valuable lessons opening a new horizon of discovery and experience which now therefore behooves on us and My committed leadership to structurally re position the Ovia North East Administrative System for a continuous attainable and measurable progress both in governance and in the lives of all stakeholders irrespective of religion, tradition and political divides.

We must join efforts with Government both at the Federal and State levels to contribute our own bit in this year towards our respective growths and development.
Ovia North East is ours and we must join our concerted efforts to restore the once attained glory which is now fast becoming a mirage before our own very eyes.
To this ends, we call on all relevant stakeholders to support Government initiated projects and programs in this year and the years to come to bring back the old good days of togetherness and prosperity in our land.

Being one of the youngest leaders functioning in this capacity as council chairman, I stand committed to devotedly work with all stakeholders irrespective of our philosophies, to bring the much needed innovations and improvements to our administrative systems in the Local Government. For the good and quick restoration of our collectively shared glory.

To this regards, We plan to embark on several infrastructural Projects that will be of Social and Economic benefits to our Local Government which includes Building and renovation of Schools, Providing a Better and Affordable Health Care, Providing palliative to cushion the effect of hardship as resulted by economic mismanagement at the federal level and Human Development

I remain Committed to serve for the betterment of us all at Ovia North East Local Government Area. May God Bless and prosper us all in this year and beyond.....!

*Signed:*
**Hon. Collins Osamede Ogbewe **
*Executive Chairman of Ovia North East LGA*

GELEGELE DEEP RIVER PORT REMAINS A LANDMARK PROJECT


*Calls for speedy completion while offering Edo state government’s full support

Edo state governor, Gov. Godwin Obaseki in company with Ovia North East Council Chairman, Hon. Collins Ogbewe and Ovia South West counterpart, Hon. Engr Edosa today visited site of Gelegele deep water port as he express confidence on contractors to deliver project on schedule date. According to Governor Obaseki “The development of this deep river port is mission critical to the achievement of the important objective of creating Special Economic Zones.


“It is the commitment of our economic philosophy to private sector leadership of our economic development efforts.


“Be assured that the Edo State Government and the Ovia North East local government, will be with you (on this project) every step of the way to ensure that we give all the support required.”


Governor Obaseki expressed confidence on contractor handling project as he seek for timely completion as scheduled .
In is speech, Hon Collins explained that This is a landmark project for several crucial reasons and the first is that the promoters of this project are targeting about 1 million, Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) container capacity annually, which they expect to grow to about 2.7 million and 4.5 million TEUs due to his proximity to Lekki deep sea port when the project operations commences.


With this fit, Gelegele river port will become one of the largest deep water ports in our region, and serve as a hub for port operations in the whole of Southern region. There is no question at all that the project will be the sort of project that the promoters have said that it will be, and with all of the plans that they have for developing it, we expect that it will be the busiest Agro shipping port in Africa.


It is expected that the project construction, once completed, will influence the generation of up to about 10,000 direct and indirect new jobs in the Edo economy.


The Nigerian Ports Authority and Edo State Government are the public sector partners in this project. The business of government is to contribute by way of equity where necessary, to projects of this size, but more importantly to create the enabling environment for the private sector to do business.


While commending all the parties to this landmark project, I want to commend very specifically Edo State Government by Governor Godwin Nogeghase Obaseki whose zeal has continued to drive this project; he keeps talking about it all the time. In his cabinet he talks about it all the time, so I want to commend him for the way he has pushed this project.


Let me say that we must move ahead to ensure the speedy completion of this project. There will be problems as I am sure you have experienced some, but be assured that the Edo State Government and the Ovia North East local government, will be with you every step of the way to ensure that we give all the support required.


Let me, therefore, on this note, congratulate everyone involved in this project.

Cheers to a new year of progress and victory

Ovia North East Woman Hails Hon. Collins for gifting them Bags of Rice and Money.*

*:::::::Describe the Council Boss as a Darling Son of Ovia North East Local Government Area::::::::*

Women in Ovia North East Local Government Area have commended the Local Government Chairman Honorable Collins Osamede Ogbewe for his unwavering Commitment to the welfare of the people of the local government Area.

The Women who cut across the thirteen wards in the local government Area gave their Commendation when the Council Boss hosted them ahead of the Christmas and New Celebration.

They describe the Council Boss as the Darling Son of the Local Government Area who's Leadership style have place him in the heart of every mother in the local government Area,

They also assured the Council Chairman of their support in ensuring a successful administration as they also Pray for lofty height in his Political Career.

Addressing the Women earlier, Honorable Collins Osamede Ogbewe noted that he decided to host the women in line with the spirit of the Yuletide season where everyone is expected to show love to those around them, he also advice them to always carry their Self as worthy Ambassador of the People's Democratic party the PDP.[i][/i]

On behalf of my family, government and good people of Ovia North East local government as well as the leaders and members of the ruling People’s Democratic Party, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Rotr. Hon. Monday Osaigbovo Jp on his birthday.

Hon. Monday Osaigbovo truly deserves to be celebrated today for his immense contributions to the growth and development of governance and politics in our beloved Edo state. As a serving commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs with unwavering dedication to peace and stability in all local government of Edo state.

Since entering the world of partisan politics in the early 90s, Hon Monday Osaigbovo has remained a highly respected leader and prominent voice within our party. His role as the leader of our party has been instrumental in the development and progress of both the ruling party and governance in Edo state over the past three decades.

Furthermore, Hon. Monday Osaigbovo has his unwavering commitment to the betterment of his community in Obarhenhen, Uhiere wher he has made significant contributions in various capacities. As a religious leader, he has positively impacted numerous Christian Organisations.

We celebrate Hon. Monday Osaigbovo’s Birthday, my prayer is that God grant him excellent health and longevity, enabling him to continue his selfless service to humanity, Edo state and Nigeria as a whole.



Hon. Collins Osamede Ogbewe
Executive Chairman
OVIA North East local government