*Obaseki appoints Uzamere as Chief of Staff*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has approved the appointment of Osaze Ethan Uzamere as his Chief of Staff.

In a statement, Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., said the appointment takes immediate effect.

Uzamere is the son of Senator Ehigie Uzamere, who represented Edo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly between 2007 and 2011.

An investment banker, Uzamere, 38, is a graduate of Stony Brook University, New York, where he majored in Computer and Electrical Engineering.

He has had stints with Lehman Brothers and South Grade Engineering, among others.

A thorough-bred professional, he had, before his appointment, served as Executive Assistant to Governor Obaseki.

*_…commends state’s health workers_*

Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Frank Okiye, has urged residents in the state to take the opportunity provided by the state government for screening and testing to check the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Okiye is among the seven patients who have fully recovered after testing negative twice for the virus. He was treated with support from the state government. Some of the survivors were treated at the state’s isolation centres.

The speaker officially resumed for work on Tuesday, April 21, 2020, after necessary clearance.

He expressed appreciation to the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led government and the state’s medical team, noting, “The virus is not a death sentence. I thank the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led government, the medical team and members of my family and others who prayed for me.

“It is common knowledge that the virus has no cure or vaccine. It is not a death sentence. People should take the directives of the government and health experts on social distancing and other instructions seriously.”

“What saved the day for me was early treatment. The test was carried out after I became symptomatic. It is better to know your status early enough,” the speaker said.

Okiye added, “People should be cautious. We should comply with the directives of the state government to check the spread of the virus. I went into self-isolation after returning from the United Kingdom. Suspecting that I was exposed, I needed to save my family, so I contacted the Commissioner for Health who came with a team of medical professionals to inspect the place set up for my self-isolation.

“It was after I tested positive for coronavirus that I became a bit destabilized. After a while and with continuous interaction with people, I started overcoming the virus with local herbs and medication. I was placed on drugs to deal with the symptoms. Few days later, I started feeling better. Mine was with mild symptoms. I was not hit hard by the virus.”

*COVID-19: Edo govt provides life insurance, special allowances for over 4,200 frontline health workers*

*_…procures 3 PCR machines, 28 ventilators, readies 300-bed capacity isolation facilities, others_*

The Edo State Government has provided life insurance and other special allowances for healthcare workers handling coronavirus (COVID-19) response in the state, as motivation to work on the frontlines in the fight against the pandemic.

Governor Godwin Obaseki, who disclosed this in a broadcast, said the state is making steady progress in containing the infectious disease, noting that Edo has started treating patients in 3 of the 4 isolation centres in the three senatorial districts of the state, which have a total capacity of 300 beds and 30 ventilators.

According to him, the state government has acquired additional 3 PCR machines and trained over 4,200 healthcare workers who are now manning the state’s screening, testing and treatment facilities.

Obaseki said, “Our health workers are crucial if we are to win the fight against COVID-19, therefore, we have emphasised training, equipping and motivation of frontline health workers. To date we have trained over 4200 healthcare workers who are now manning our screening, testing and treatment facilities. Apart from providing the safety and protection required, we have offered them life insurance and special allowances to continue to motivate them.

“I am glad to inform you that the testing centre at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) is now ready. We have begun trial tests under the guidance of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). We expect it will commence full operations this week. We have also taken delivery of another PCR testing machine currently being installed at the Edo Specialist Hospital which we hope will also be ready within the next 2 weeks. This will give us the capacity to perform up to 1000 tests daily in Edo State.” 

The governor, who noted that the state government has continued distribution of relief materials to vulnerable persons in the state to cushion the economic effect of the stay-at-home order, said, “We are quite aware that many families and individuals are suffering as a result of the partial lock down. That is why we have started distributing food items to vulnerable families and will give medical support to even more.  We are fumigating and providing water in markets, parks and public spaces and have reduced taxes on small businesses.”

“Our operations involve huge logistics effort and coordination of more than 500 people trained to collect, process and distribute samples, supplies and palliatives. Up to 2,000 men and women from Federal and State security agencies are helping us provide security for our health workers and residents whilst ensuring compliance and enforcement of our safety guidelines,” he said.

He continued, “I am also pleased to inform you that surveillance, contact tracing and line listing is very effective in all local governments in Edo State. Every reported case is actively searched and Persons of Interest (POIs) are thoroughly followed up. We have started treating patients in 3 of the 4 isolation centres in Benin City, Irrua and Auchi, which have a total capacity of 300 beds and 30 ventilators.”

*Coronavirus: Edo govt imposes dusk to dawn curfew to check spread*


Click here for the full video.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aZtnsTOrWo

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has mourned the death of Chief of Staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, Mallam Abba Kyari.

In a statement, the governor said he received the news of the passing of Abba Kyari with sadness, stating that his passing was a personal loss and that he would be greatly missed.

According to him, “Having associated with Abba Kyari for over two decades, I found him to be a complete gentleman, very intellectual and a true Nigerian patriot.

“He was a forthright man, who was resolute in his conviction and loyal to any course he believed in.’

He added: “I admire how he stood with President Muhammadu Buhari through thick and thin. I, therefore, express my personal condolences and that of Edo people to President Buhari, who we know will also miss Abba Kyari greatly.”

*PHOTO CAPTION*
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State.

*_…markets to temporarily relocate to public schools_*

The Edo State Government has directed the shutdown of markets in the state from Wednesday, April 8, 2020, for the commencement of fumigation of the facilities.

Deputy Governor and Chairman, Edo State COVID-19 Response Technical Committee, Rt. Comrade Hon. Philip Shaibu, who disclosed this in a press briefing, said fumigation of the markets would commence from the day of closure.

According to him, “All markets in Edo State are to be shut down effective from Wednesday, April 8, 2020. The state government will undertake the fumigation of the markets from the day of closure.

He said the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, will be out of isolation tomorrow and would thereafter lead the response efforts against COVID-19.

He added that the markets are to be relocated to designated public primary and secondary schools within the market’s vicinity.

He noted that the government has recommended the use of face masks as a government sanctioned precautionary measures against COVID-19, adding, “We have met with traditional and religious leaders to work out modalities for the implementation of different precautionary measures against COVID-19.”

He continued, “The University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) has been designated as a holding/isolation centre. Isolation facilities are being made more comfortable for patients, as TV and Air Conditioning (AC) sets have been installed. Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reports that people are coming for voluntary testing.”

Secretary to Edo State Government, Barr. Osarodion Ogie urged market leaders in the state to sensitise their members to ensure they maintain social distancing in the market, as coronavirus has no respect for any person.

“Coronavirus has no cure but the only cure is for us all to listen and obey government’s directives and instructions on measures to follow to check the pandemic.”

Commissioner for information and Orientation, Rt. Hon. Paul Ohonbamu commended the press in the fight against the spread of COVID-19, urging the citizens to stay at home as the virus doesn't move but people who move contract and spread the virus.

*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S3_01:*
L-R: World Health Organisation (WHO) Coordinator in Edo State, Mrs. Faith Ireye; Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Patrick Okundia; Deputy Governor and Chairman, Edo State Response Committee on COVID-19, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu; Chairman, Oredo Local Government Area, Hon. Evbareke Jenkins Osunde, and Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, during a press briefing at the Government House in Benin City,  on Monday, April 6, 2020.
 
*S3_02:*
Edo State Deputy Governor and Chairman, Edo State Response Committee on COVID-19, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, at a meeting with market leaders, in Government House, Benin City, on Monday, April 6, 2020.

*
As part of efforts to ward off outbreaks such as the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the state, the Edo State Government had trained workers in Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) and other government health establishments in 18 Local Government Areas of the state on how to manage infectious diseases and is now updating these medical workers on how to deal with peculiarities of the pandemic.

In a statement, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osaagie, said the training commenced months ago as part of the Edo Healthcare Improvement Programme (Edo-HIP) aimed at preparing the health workers on how to manage health emergencies and other public health concerns.

He noted that refresher courses are being undertaken to prepare the health workers on the peculiarities of COVID-19, to ensure they are well-prepared to manage the pandemic.

Osagie urged residents not to panic as the state government has taken serious steps to prevent an outbreak of the virus in the state.

He said, “As part of the meetings with religious and traditional leaders in the state, we have partnered with relevant health agencies, including World Health Organisation (WHO), Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH) and the State Ministry of Health, to train church workers, community leaders and volunteers on how to manage large crowds, conduct screenings and temperature tests, among other necessary measures to ward off the outbreak of the novel coronavirus in Edo State. Teams have been sent to communities, church premises and other worship places to ensure social distancing is observed”.

The governor’s aide said preparations for the Edo 2020 National Sports Festival (NSF) gave the state a head start in preparation for management of public health emergencies, as necessary equipment and gadgets are in place to address any suspected case of the COVID-19.

Reassuring on the state’s readiness to ward off the outbreak of coronavirus in Edo, Osagie said, “We have invaluable experience in managing infectious diseases in Edo State, especially with the management of periodic Lassa Fever outbreaks. As a result, the state government has, for the purpose of containing an outbreak of COVID-19 in the state, reactivated its isolation centres in the three senatorial districts in the state, including those at the Stella Obasanjo Hospital; Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH) and General Hospital, Auchi.

He noted, however, that citizens and residents should avoid large gatherings that could expose them to bodily contacts.

On how to reduce the risk of spread of the virus, the governor’s aide advised, “Members of the public should to wash their hands regularly with soap under running water; cover the mouth and nose properly with a handkerchief or tissue paper when sneezing and/or coughing. You may also cough into your elbow if a handkerchief is not available.

“Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing; avoid self-medication, report to the nearest health facility when you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms. Healthcare workers are always advised to observe standard infection prevention and control measures when attending to patients and take a travel history,” he added.

Osagie urged Edo residents to contact the following numbers for more information: Director of Disease Control on 08084096723; State Epidemiologist on 08064258163, Acting State Disease Surveillance Notification Officer (DSNO) on 07015216386, and the World Health Organisation (WHO) State Coordinator on 08035835529.

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has commiserated with the people and government of Lagos State over the loss of lives and damage caused by the explosion in the Abule-Ado axis of the state.

In a statement, the governor said the incident is saddening and tragic, commending the Lagos State government for providing necessary emergency response to mitigate the fatalities from the unfortunate incident.

According to him, “I commiserate with the people and government of Lagos State over this unfortunate incident of Sunday, March 15, 2020, which has claimed not less than 15 lives in the state.”

“At this dark hour, our prayers are with Lagosians and the state government. We pray that God grants the families of the victims the fortitude to bear the loss,” he added.

In continuation of the disbursement of start-up grants by the Edo State Government, 450 agripreneurs in Esan South-East Local Government Area (LGA) of the state, have received N90,000 each to enhance their productivity.

Special Adviser to Edo State Governor on Agriculture and Food Security Programme, Prince Joe Okojie, who addressed the beneficiaries, in Ubiaja, said the goal of the initiative is to assist farmers with the needed resources to encourage more subsistent farmers to embrace commercial farming.

He said, “This is their seed money expecting them to utilize the resources well which will enable them to improve their productivity and feed their families. Each beneficiary gets N90,000 in the agricultural programme funded by Edo Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”

Chairman, Esan South-East LGA, Hon. Victor Emuakhagbon, expressed appreciation to the state government and the state SDG Office for the grant, urging the farmers to make good use of the support.

He said, “This is the time for harvest. We are grateful for this kind of gesture. I want to thank Governor Godwin Obaseki for attracting good things to the people of Edo State.”

The Focal person, Edo SDGs, Mrs. Ifueko Alufohai said the programme will enable the farmers acquire modern techniques in farm cultivation, adding that the programme will empower the farmers to expand their farms.

She noted, “Governor Godwin Obaseki is interested in empowering the people to attain food sufficiency.”

One of the beneficiaries, Ayemere Ese, promised to utilise the resources provided by the government to expand his business and contribute to the state’s development.

*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S2_01:*
Chairman, Esan South-East Local Government Area (LGA), Hon. Victor Emuakhagbon (left); Focal person, Edo Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs), Mrs Ifueko Alufohai (middle); Special Adviser to Edo State Governor on Agriculture and Food Security Programme, Prince Joe Okojie (right), with beneficiaries of the agricultural programme funded by Edo SDGs, in Ubiaja, Esan South-East LGA of Edo State.

The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja has restrained the National Legal Adviser of the All Progressives Congress, Babatunde Ogala; the National Publicity Secretary, Lanre Issa-Onilu; and Waziri Bulama from taking any steps to disrupt the meeting of the APC National Executive Committee, convened by the party’s National Working Committee and scheduled for March 17.

The court, in a ruling by Justice S.U. Bature, made the restraining order on Wednesday following an ex parte application by one Mustapha Salihu.

The court also made an order “compelling the 4th defendant (APC) to give effect to the resolution of the National Working Committee convening the National Executive Committee meeting of the 4th defendant (APC) scheduled for 17th March 2020 or any subsequent date pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice already filed.”

The judge granted leave to the applicant to serve originating summons on Ogala, Issa-Onilu, Bulama and the APC “by substituted means, to wit: by serving same on any adult at the office of the Deputy National Secretary of the 4th defendant at the APC National Secretariat and deem same as proper service.”

Justice Bature adjourned till March 20 to hear the Motion on Notice.

*_Prior to the turn of events in the crisis rocking the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) last Wednesday, the power play over the forthcoming governorship elections in Ondo and Edo State this had been the focus of the stakeholders. STEPHEN GBADAMOSI writes that now, the scope has been expanded to involve politics of 2023._*

EVEN though the elections are six and seven months, respectively, away, tendencies in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo and Ondo states have fixed their gaze on the governorship polls coming up this year. In effect, watchers of events in the politics of the two states have been pointing out intense efforts of one group to outdo the other, not only in the ruling party, but also in other ones interested in wresting power from the APC in both states, particularly the major opposition, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Recently, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) axed some 74 political parties as a result of alleged lacklustre performance in past elections, leaving only 28 on the turf. Though some of the parties have gone to court challenging their deregistration, watchers of the Nigerian political space have said the step does not give much hope to the affected political parties, according to an analyst, who added that this is “because even if the court makes INEC to reverse itself, they (political parties) lack the luxury of time.”

*Removal of Oshiomhole as possible game changer*

Some would have seen the foregoing as an advantage for the APC, but analysts insist the development does not stop the groundswell of calculations against the ruling party.

A prominent politician from Akure, Ondo State told Sunday Tribune in confidence that “those who have anything you can call political clout in those deregistered parties are already forming alliance with people of like minds in other parties in opposition to our party. We are aware of that. Our leaders should be making overtures to those people too. But would they? Because of their greed, ego and the thinking that they have the power, they won’t cede anything to those people so as to let them join us and strengthen the APC further.

“But I can tell you, real politicians among them are not merely waiting for outcome of the suits challenging the deregistration; they have other things up their sleeves in the existing parties.”

Moreover, last Wednesday declaration of an Abuja High Court stopping Adam Oshiomhole from parading himself as the party’s chairman reportedly has a lot of political implications. For Edo, it has been suggested that Oshiomhole’s removal was local politics degenerating to the national stage. Even when another court of same jurisdiction said Oshiomhole should not be suspended, the embattled politician’s problems had not been solved. And upon his hurried meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari over the impasse on Thursday, things only got more confusing for the ruling party.

As a former aide of the national chairman, the incumbent second-term-seeking Edo State governor, Godwin Obaseki, is said to have garnered more than enough political clout to make minnow of his erstwhile godfather. He is one of the all-powerful Progressive Governors Forum.

Beside his interest that is believed to be certain for protection of the forum’s members, Oshiomhole is believed to have lost the confidence of some of the governors, particularly on account of activities leading to the primaries that produced candidates of the party in the 2015 general elections.

In some quarters, it is believed that Obaseki might have been a lad of the former Edo governor, but now, he has wormed his way into the hearts of the loyalists of President Buhari in the party’s equation. At a time, it was speculated that if Obaseki failed in the power play with Oshiomhole, there was a Plan B to usher him into the PDP to realise his second term bid.

*Ondo and its issue with Bordillon*

Although there have been speculations that the feud between the camp of former governor of Lagos State and APC national leader, Senator Bola Tinubu, and Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, had enjoyed some rapprochement, the never-say-die stance of the like of Senator Ajayi Borofice must be a cause for concern for the camp of Akeredolu. Some analysts have said that Bordillon has not forgiven Akeredolu for his role in the last congress of the party in Ondo where he reportedly held the aces as against the will of the godfathers.

However, with the current development around Oshiomhole, Akeredolu too might be having the last laugh.

*The Abiola Ajimobi angle*

Political pundits have said that the positioning of former governor of Oyo State for the position of national deputy chairman of the party (South), hours before Oshiomhole was suspended, there was a grand plot to make him acting national chairman of the party. The constitution of the APC gives power to the national deputy chairman to act as national chairman in the absence of the chairman from his zone. With Ajimobi in acting capacity as APC national chairman, and the party’s congress some weeks away, the embattled governors of Edo and Ondo states might have another opportunity to put in place a formidable political formation to earn themselves the much-coveted second term.

*2023 politicking in 2020*

It has also been said that what is playing out within the ranks of the APC cannot be unconnected with intense positioning and repositioning of the 2023 presidential election. Analysts said the camp of Senator Tinubu would be comfortable having Oshiomhole remain as national chairman of the APC or Ajimobi in his stead in acting capacity, while certain interests in the Northern part of the country would tacitly support his ouster. Besides, even though the incumbent governor of Ekiti State and chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr Kayode Fayemi, has said that he is not interested in contesting the 2023 presidency, watchers of events have said that he would not be comfortable with the choice of Ajimobi, should he change his mind and go ahead with the reported ambition. This may not be unconnected with why the state chapter of the party rejected the emergence of Ajimobi during the week.

*_By STEPHEN GBADAMOSI On Mar 8, 2020_*

*_Prior to the turn of events in the crisis rocking the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) last Wednesday, the power play over the forthcoming governorship elections in Ondo and Edo State this had been the focus of the stakeholders. STEPHEN GBADAMOSI writes that now, the scope has been expanded to involve politics of 2023._*

EVEN though the elections are six and seven months, respectively, away, tendencies in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo and Ondo states have fixed their gaze on the governorship polls coming up this year. In effect, watchers of events in the politics of the two states have been pointing out intense efforts of one group to outdo the other, not only in the ruling party, but also in other ones interested in wresting power from the APC in both states, particularly the major opposition, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Recently, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) axed some 74 political parties as a result of alleged lacklustre performance in past elections, leaving only 28 on the turf. Though some of the parties have gone to court challenging their deregistration, watchers of the Nigerian political space have said the step does not give much hope to the affected political parties, according to an analyst, who added that this is “because even if the court makes INEC to reverse itself, they (political parties) lack the luxury of time.”

*Removal of Oshiomhole as possible game changer*

Some would have seen the foregoing as an advantage for the APC, but analysts insist the development does not stop the groundswell of calculations against the ruling party.

A prominent politician from Akure, Ondo State told Sunday Tribune in confidence that “those who have anything you can call political clout in those deregistered parties are already forming alliance with people of like minds in other parties in opposition to our party. We are aware of that. Our leaders should be making overtures to those people too. But would they? Because of their greed, ego and the thinking that they have the power, they won’t cede anything to those people so as to let them join us and strengthen the APC further.

“But I can tell you, real politicians among them are not merely waiting for outcome of the suits challenging the deregistration; they have other things up their sleeves in the existing parties.”

Moreover, last Wednesday declaration of an Abuja High Court stopping Adam Oshiomhole from parading himself as the party’s chairman reportedly has a lot of political implications. For Edo, it has been suggested that Oshiomhole’s removal was local politics degenerating to the national stage. Even when another court of same jurisdiction said Oshiomhole should not be suspended, the embattled politician’s problems had not been solved. And upon his hurried meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari over the impasse on Thursday, things only got more confusing for the ruling party.

As a former aide of the national chairman, the incumbent second-term-seeking Edo State governor, Godwin Obaseki, is said to have garnered more than enough political clout to make minnow of his erstwhile godfather. He is one of the all-powerful Progressive Governors Forum.

Beside his interest that is believed to be certain for protection of the forum’s members, Oshiomhole is believed to have lost the confidence of some of the governors, particularly on account of activities leading to the primaries that produced candidates of the party in the 2015 general elections.

In some quarters, it is believed that Obaseki might have been a lad of the former Edo governor, but now, he has wormed his way into the hearts of the loyalists of President Buhari in the party’s equation. At a time, it was speculated that if Obaseki failed in the power play with Oshiomhole, there was a Plan B to usher him into the PDP to realise his second term bid.

*Ondo and its issue with Bordillon*

Although there have been speculations that the feud between the camp of former governor of Lagos State and APC national leader, Senator Bola Tinubu, and Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, had enjoyed some rapprochement, the never-say-die stance of the like of Senator Ajayi Borofice must be a cause for concern for the camp of Akeredolu. Some analysts have said that Bordillon has not forgiven Akeredolu for his role in the last congress of the party in Ondo where he reportedly held the aces as against the will of the godfathers.

However, with the current development around Oshiomhole, Akeredolu too might be having the last laugh.

*The Abiola Ajimobi angle*

Political pundits have said that the positioning of former governor of Oyo State for the position of national deputy chairman of the party (South), hours before Oshiomhole was suspended, there was a grand plot to make him acting national chairman of the party. The constitution of the APC gives power to the national deputy chairman to act as national chairman in the absence of the chairman from his zone. With Ajimobi in acting capacity as APC national chairman, and the party’s congress some weeks away, the embattled governors of Edo and Ondo states might have another opportunity to put in place a formidable political formation to earn themselves the much-coveted second term.

*2023 politicking in 2020*

It has also been said that what is playing out within the ranks of the APC cannot be unconnected with intense positioning and repositioning of the 2023 presidential election. Analysts said the camp of Senator Tinubu would be comfortable having Oshiomhole remain as national chairman of the APC or Ajimobi in his stead in acting capacity, while certain interests in the Northern part of the country would tacitly support his ouster. Besides, even though the incumbent governor of Ekiti State and chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr Kayode Fayemi, has said that he is not interested in contesting the 2023 presidency, watchers of events have said that he would not be comfortable with the choice of Ajimobi, should he change his mind and go ahead with the reported ambition. This may not be unconnected with why the state chapter of the party rejected the emergence of Ajimobi during the week.

Entrepreneurs operating at the Edo Production Centre have applauded the Bank of Industry (BoI) and the Edo State Government for improving access to credit at the facility, a move that provides relief to key business challenges faced by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

In a chat with journalists, the entrepreneurs said with the availability of stable power at the facility and the addition of a seamless access to credit through the BoI at the production centre, businesses at the center are now well-positioned to contribute optimally to expanding the business space in the state.

Mr. Christopher Omoruyi, who benefitted from BoI’s credit facility, and runs a polytene production business at the center, said the bank’s coming will open opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs to access credit to expand their business.

According to him, “We are very happy that the BoI has set up an operational base at the centre. This ensures that businesses at the centre are placed in close proximity with the bank, a development that makes processing paperwork for accessing credit seamless.

“I remember when I was made to go through a tedious and cumbersome process the first time I accessed credit from the BoI, as I needed a bank guarantor to get the loan. But with the bank in the Edo Production Center, entrepreneurs can easily access credit and the bank can keep a close eye on the companies they are financing.”

An artisan, Mr. Lucky Igbinoba, said the bank’s presence at the facility has shown the commitment of the state government in ensuring that the core needs of businesses operating at the centre are met, especially as regards to access to finance.

Igbinoba said, “We are very happy having the BoI. We are coming together to initiate the process of accessing credit to expand our operations and it is delightful that we wouldn’t have to stress over it, as the bank is right in our premises.”

*_...Warns his stay ‘ll cost party Edo, Ondo, Anambra guber seats_*

*_Romanus Ugwu, Abuja_*

The Director General of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governors Forum, Salihu Mohammed Lukman, has told the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) and other stakeholders to appoint, on acting capacity, the replacement for the party’s national chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.

He also warned that retaining Oshiomhole as the ruling party’s boss will cost the party governorship tickets in the forthcoming Edo, Ondo and Anambra states elections.

Responding to the litigation involving the former Edo state governor, the PGF DG in a write-up titled ‘Injunction against Adams Oshiomhole: The big opportunity for party building’, he suggested that replacement of Oshiomhole will be the best panacea to the legal impasse currently holding the party to ransom.

Although he specifically commended the non-interference of President Muhammadu Buhari in the situation, he however asked him to be an integral part of the efforts to find viable replacement for Oshiomhole.



“How can we get all these started? First, pending the settlement of all the cases around Oshiomhole’s membership, we need to invoke provisions of Article 17 (vi) which provide that in the event of a vacancy, ‘the relevant party organ shall appoint another person to act in his place pending ratification by the National Convention or Congress.’

“The relevant party organ in this case may have to be the NEC. Given all the vacancies about six so far, National Chairman, Deputy National Chairman (South), Deputy National Chairman (North), National Vice Chairman (North West), National Secretary and National Auditor, who convenes the NEC?

“This is where the organising, consultation and negotiating capacity of our leaders will be tested. Combinations of majority of the remaining members of the NWC in consultation with President Buhari, Governors, other party leaders who are leading members of the National Caucus can resolve all these issues and convene the NEC to appoint an Acting National Chairman,” he suggested.

Warning of the dire consequences of the Oshiomhole-led NWC conducting Edo, Ondo and Anambra governorship primaries, he said: “It is important to ask the question, assuming in all of these, Oshiomhole remained as the National Chairman and proceed to organise primary elections for Edo, Ondo and Anambra, how advantageous will that be to APC?

“Let us also assume for the purpose of analysis that undisputed candidates emerge from the primaries in which no one within the party is contesting the results.

“Whether those undisputed candidates include Governors Godwin Obaseki of Edo State and Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN of Ondo State is immaterial. The Zamfara and Bayelsa judicial cloud would appear to have already gathered with any opposition party led by PDP just positioned to harvest what will come with such clouds.

“Given such reality, it will be foolhardy for any upright thinking politician to aspire to contest on the platform of the party with Oshiomhole as the National Chairman. The only possible remedy will be if Comrade Oshiomhole is able to humble himself and go back to the root cause of the problem and resolve it.

“What is the root cause of the problem? It is the suspension by his Ward 10 in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State. Since November 2, 2019, the Ward 10 Executives passed a vote of no confidence on Comrade Oshiomhole and suspended him from the party. Somehow, Comrade Oshiomhole and his supporters treated this action of the Ward Executives with contempt to the point of projecting Comrade Oshiomhole as superior to the Ward.

“This now has turned out to be the very albatross that is setting the stage for Comrade Oshiomhole’s downfall as the National Chairman. Other than issuing another suspension order on Obaseki and Aselm Ojezua, Edo State APC Chairman, Comrade Oshiomhole hardly initiated actions to challenge his suspension from his Ward, at least not to public knowledge.

*..._It’s criminal, says Mustapha, dismisses Kano court ruling_*



The leadership crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress (APC) got messier as members of its National Working Committee were sharply divided over the purported nomination of three new national officers.

This was as the National Vice Chairman (North East), Salihu Mustapha said it is a criminal offence for any member of the NWC to nominate national officers without following due process as stipulated in the party’s constitution.

National Publicity Secretary, Lanre Issa – Onilu had on Wednesday in a statement said that the NWC has approved the nomination of  Waziri Bulama as acting national secretary, Senator Abiola Ajimobi as acting deputy national chairman (south) and Paul Chukwuma as national auditor.

Issa -Onilu claimed that the decision was reached on January 14, during a meeting of the NWC at the party’s secretariat.

Reacting at a press chat on Thursday, Mustapha described the purported nomination as a ruse and criminal act, stating that the announcement of some party officers by Onilu is laughable, very pathetic and disturbing.

“The announcement that purported that we approved nominations of three officers on January 14, one of these officers which is the deputy chairman south, even the nomination from his state came to the national vice chairman on February 28, almost 40 days after the date of the purported meeting.

“The meeting we had on January 14, I came out of the meeting and I told you guys that the meeting was stopped because they were trying to do illegality on only the national secretary; the matter of the other people was referred to the zone, nobody discusses it,” he asserted.

Describing the act as criminal, Mustapha said that “but seeing that he (Oshiomhole) has been suspended, he now had to bring out that information. I don’t think it is a civil matter, I think our lawyers are looking at it because it is a criminal matter  

“I am a working committee member and I was not in the meeting, where is the minutes of the meeting, where was it held? And how do we approve a nomination that is yet to come; we are not running a banana republic. This is a party and not a block industry or a motor-park.

“Our lawyers are looking at it and if we find any criminal act, we will prosecute.”

Commenting on the Kano High Court ruling on the stay of execution over Wednesday’s FCT High Court sacking of Oshiomhole as APC national chairman, he dismissed the judgement, saying that it cannot stand.

“First of all I want be very brief because we have a case in court and I am a plaintiff, so I don’t want to be guilty of sub-judice.  

“But, I want to tell you from my knowledge of law that two courts of coordinate jurisdiction cannot sit on appeal on an order or judgement given by each other,

“A Federal High Court cannot sit on appeal on FCT High Court. The only court that has the jurisdiction to sit an appeal is the court of appeal in this case and the court order of the FCT High Court was served yesterday.

“Most of you have the copy of order and it is an elementary law that first in time prevails, that of Abuja High Court came earlier and we seek for interlocutory injunction and there is affidavit of urgency which seek to prevail certain kinds of mischief which we prayed that the court should help prevail which they did.

“So, If you look at the main reason why that introductory letter is granted I don’t think that a federal high court of the same jurisdiction will now come and set it aside.  

“We don’t need the knowledge of law to know that a high court cannot sit on a matter of appeal in high court. So, I don’t want to say much about the order but I want to say that it is only the court of appeal that can vacate this injunction.

“As you can see, we are in the secretariat and we are running the affairs of the party. So, the suspension still prevails until the hearing of the matter or there is any contrary order from the court of appeal.

When asked if the NWC doing anything to replace Oshiomhole, Mustapha said it is not the duty of the NWC to source for replace instead the NWC looks at the day to day affairs of the party.https://dailytimes.ng/2020/03/06/apc-nwc-members-split-over-ajimobi-bulama-emergence/

*APC NWC members split over Ajimobi, Bulama emergence*

*..._It’s criminal, says Mustapha, dismisses Kano court ruling_*

*_By Tunde Opalana, Abuja March 6, 2020_*

The leadership crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress (APC) got messier as members of its National Working Committee were sharply divided over the purported nomination of three new national officers.

This was as the National Vice Chairman (North East), Salihu Mustapha said it is a criminal offence for any member of the NWC to nominate national officers without following due process as stipulated in the party’s constitution.

National Publicity Secretary, Lanre Issa – Onilu had on Wednesday in a statement said that the NWC has approved the nomination of  Waziri Bulama as acting national secretary, Senator Abiola Ajimobi as acting deputy national chairman (south) and Paul Chukwuma as national auditor.

Issa -Onilu claimed that the decision was reached on January 14, during a meeting of the NWC at the party’s secretariat.

Reacting at a press chat on Thursday, Mustapha described the purported nomination as a ruse and criminal act, stating that the announcement of some party officers by Onilu is laughable, very pathetic and disturbing.

“The announcement that purported that we approved nominations of three officers on January 14, one of these officers which is the deputy chairman south, even the nomination from his state came to the national vice chairman on February 28, almost 40 days after the date of the purported meeting.

“The meeting we had on January 14, I came out of the meeting and I told you guys that the meeting was stopped because they were trying to do illegality on only the national secretary; the matter of the other people was referred to the zone, nobody discusses it,” he asserted.

Describing the act as criminal, Mustapha said that “but seeing that he (Oshiomhole) has been suspended, he now had to bring out that information. I don’t think it is a civil matter, I think our lawyers are looking at it because it is a criminal matter  

“I am a working committee member and I was not in the meeting, where is the minutes of the meeting, where was it held? And how do we approve a nomination that is yet to come; we are not running a banana republic. This is a party and not a block industry or a motor-park.

“Our lawyers are looking at it and if we find any criminal act, we will prosecute.”

Commenting on the Kano High Court ruling on the stay of execution over Wednesday’s FCT High Court sacking of Oshiomhole as APC national chairman, he dismissed the judgement, saying that it cannot stand.

“First of all I want be very brief because we have a case in court and I am a plaintiff, so I don’t want to be guilty of sub-judice.  

“But, I want to tell you from my knowledge of law that two courts of coordinate jurisdiction cannot sit on appeal on an order or judgement given by each other,

“A Federal High Court cannot sit on appeal on FCT High Court. The only court that has the jurisdiction to sit an appeal is the court of appeal in this case and the court order of the FCT High Court was served yesterday.

“Most of you have the copy of order and it is an elementary law that first in time prevails, that of Abuja High Court came earlier and we seek for interlocutory injunction and there is affidavit of urgency which seek to prevail certain kinds of mischief which we prayed that the court should help prevail which they did.

“So, If you look at the main reason why that introductory letter is granted I don’t think that a federal high court of the same jurisdiction will now come and set it aside.  

“We don’t need the knowledge of law to know that a high court cannot sit on a matter of appeal in high court. So, I don’t want to say much about the order but I want to say that it is only the court of appeal that can vacate this injunction.

“As you can see, we are in the secretariat and we are running the affairs of the party. So, the suspension still prevails until the hearing of the matter or there is any contrary order from the court of appeal.

When asked if the NWC doing anything to replace Oshiomhole, Mustapha said it is not the duty of the NWC to source for replace instead the NWC looks at the day to day affairs of the party.https://dailytimes.ng/2020/03/06/apc-nwc-members-split-over-ajimobi-bulama-emergence/

*APC NWC members split over Ajimobi, Bulama emergence*

*..._It’s criminal, says Mustapha, dismisses Kano court ruling_*

*_By Tunde Opalana, Abuja March 6, 2020_*

The leadership crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress (APC) got messier as members of its National Working Committee were sharply divided over the purported nomination of three new national officers.

This was as the National Vice Chairman (North East), Salihu Mustapha said it is a criminal offence for any member of the NWC to nominate national officers without following due process as stipulated in the party’s constitution.

National Publicity Secretary, Lanre Issa – Onilu had on Wednesday in a statement said that the NWC has approved the nomination of  Waziri Bulama as acting national secretary, Senator Abiola Ajimobi as acting deputy national chairman (south) and Paul Chukwuma as national auditor.

Issa -Onilu claimed that the decision was reached on January 14, during a meeting of the NWC at the party’s secretariat.

Reacting at a press chat on Thursday, Mustapha described the purported nomination as a ruse and criminal act, stating that the announcement of some party officers by Onilu is laughable, very pathetic and disturbing.

“The announcement that purported that we approved nominations of three officers on January 14, one of these officers which is the deputy chairman south, even the nomination from his state came to the national vice chairman on February 28, almost 40 days after the date of the purported meeting.

“The meeting we had on January 14, I came out of the meeting and I told you guys that the meeting was stopped because they were trying to do illegality on only the national secretary; the matter of the other people was referred to the zone, nobody discusses it,” he asserted.

Describing the act as criminal, Mustapha said that “but seeing that he (Oshiomhole) has been suspended, he now had to bring out that information. I don’t think it is a civil matter, I think our lawyers are looking at it because it is a criminal matter  

“I am a working committee member and I was not in the meeting, where is the minutes of the meeting, where was it held? And how do we approve a nomination that is yet to come; we are not running a banana republic. This is a party and not a block industry or a motor-park.

“Our lawyers are looking at it and if we find any criminal act, we will prosecute.”

Commenting on the Kano High Court ruling on the stay of execution over Wednesday’s FCT High Court sacking of Oshiomhole as APC national chairman, he dismissed the judgement, saying that it cannot stand.

“First of all I want be very brief because we have a case in court and I am a plaintiff, so I don’t want to be guilty of sub-judice.  

“But, I want to tell you from my knowledge of law that two courts of coordinate jurisdiction cannot sit on appeal on an order or judgement given by each other,

“A Federal High Court cannot sit on appeal on FCT High Court. The only court that has the jurisdiction to sit an appeal is the court of appeal in this case and the court order of the FCT High Court was served yesterday.

“Most of you have the copy of order and it is an elementary law that first in time prevails, that of Abuja High Court came earlier and we seek for interlocutory injunction and there is affidavit of urgency which seek to prevail certain kinds of mischief which we prayed that the court should help prevail which they did.

“So, If you look at the main reason why that introductory letter is granted I don’t think that a federal high court of the same jurisdiction will now come and set it aside.  

“We don’t need the knowledge of law to know that a high court cannot sit on a matter of appeal in high court. So, I don’t want to say much about the order but I want to say that it is only the court of appeal that can vacate this injunction.

“As you can see, we are in the secretariat and we are running the affairs of the party. So, the suspension still prevails until the hearing of the matter or there is any contrary order from the court of appeal.

When asked if the NWC doing anything to replace Oshiomhole, Mustapha said it is not the duty of the NWC to source for replace instead the NWC looks at the day to day affairs of the party.

The men of the Nigeria Police Force have totally taken control of the national Secretariat of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), LEADERSHIP reports.

Follwing a court order barring the party’s national Chairman, comrade Adams Oshiomhole from parading himself as the party’s head.

Staff were seating on the floor waiting for an official position since they are not allowed to go into their offices.

A staff who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said “my brother, I don’t know what is going on oo. tThey just locked us out of the office.”

More Details Later …

*

Riding on the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki’s investment drive, the Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA) in conjunction with JARA Nigeria will on Friday, March 6, 2020 open a new discount supermarket on Sakponda Road, Benin City, the Edo State capital.

The new supermarket is a product of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the state government through the EDPA and JARA (EDLP Nigeria Ltd), for the setting up of a retail chain in Benin City and environs to provide a new shopping experience to Edo people.

Speaking to journalists, a representative of JARA Nigeria, Ayo Bademosi, said JARA is country’s first discount supermarket and retail chain that is created by Nigerians, specifically for the Nigerian retail market.

She added that the supermarket offers the best value on all core products that satisfy everyday needs, noting, “JARA was first launched on the 20th of December 2019 in Ikeja, Lagos State and in partnership with the Edo State Government through the EDPA, will be opening the first discount store in South-South, Nigeria, on Sakponba Road, Benin City.”

Noting that the supermarket has created a conducive environment where Nigerians can buy products for everyday needs at the best prices, she said, “We are really happy to partner with the state government on this project. The opening of the mall is a credit to the Governor Obaseki-led government, as it provided a conducive and supportive environment for us to establish and commence operations in Benin City.”

Executive Chairman, EDPA, Isoken Omo, said the state government is impressed with the fast-paced work at the facility, adding that the launch of the supermarket is a testament of the state government’s determination to attract serious investors to the state.

She added, “We are quite excited with JARA Stores opening in Benin, to bring a new retail shopping experience to Edo State. As EDPA, we are happy that this is another milestone project that has been delivered to Edo people.”

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/03/n700m-fraud-tension-heightens-as-ize-iyamu-others-appear-in-court-on-march-2/

https://www.thecable.ng/ize-iyamu-returns-to-court-tuesday-over-n700m-fraud

*_All eyes on fraud case with outcome of Metuh’s trial’_*

Tension is at fever pitch level in the camp of the former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu and four others being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for a N700m election-related fraud case, as they return to the Federal High Court, Benin on Monday, March 2, for the hearing of the case before Justice M. G. Umar.

The accused persons are apprehensive over the matter, as they fear their fate may not be different from that of the former PDP National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, who is to serve seven years in prison, impeccable sources close to the Edo State chapter of the PDP, said at the weekend.

Though there have been concerted efforts by Pastor Ize-Iyamu to thwart the case in connivance with forces in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, the EFCC has insisted on proceeding with the trial with renewed zeal.

“There is deafening silence and fever pitch apprehension in the Edo State Chapter of the PDP after the judgement on Olisa Metuh some weeks ago. Everybody is in panic mode. You know that the case is very similar. I bet you, all eyes are on this case with what transpired in Metuh’s trial.

“We are not so sure that something significant would come out of it that would be for the benefit of the accused persons. So, we are keeping our fingers crossed. But we are still exploring the options in Abuja. To be sincere, it is not looking really good here,” the source said.

The accused persons had on February 13, 2020, pleaded for a six-month adjournment of the case but Justice M. G. Umar declined the prayer, threatening to revoke their bail condition if they attempted to continue to delay the trial with frivolous requests.

Pastor Ize-Iyamu and four other top-ranking members of the PDP were re-arraigned on an eight-count charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering to the tune of N700 million, an offence contrary to section 18 (a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011 as amended which is punishable under section 15(3) of the same Act.

Other defendants in the case include former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Lucky Imasuen; PDP chairman in Edo State, Chief Dan Orbih; Tony Aziegbemi and Efe Erimuoghae Anthony.

The EFCC accused the defendants of conspiring among themselves to commit the offence in March 2015, alleging that they took possession and control of the funds without any contract award from former Minister of Petroleum, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke.

The anti-graft agency also said the defendants allegedly made huge cash payments of various amounts to several people without going through a financial institution.

*
*_…gov berates Oshiomhole for disregard of protocol_*

Former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has applauded Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, for providing impactful and purposeful leadership in the state, urging him to continue in his uncommon developmental strides.

The former President gave the commendation on Sunday in Benin City, when he paid the governor a courtesy visit in his residence.

Addressing journalists during the visit, Jonathan described the visit as customary, noting, “Traditionally as someone who has been a President or a senior political office holder, when you go to a state, you have to pay a courtesy call on the Chief Executive; even if you are free or not, at least you must inform him."

Appraising the Obaseki-led administration, the former president noted that the governor is working tirelessly to transform the state, urging him to continue with his people-oriented and transformational projects and reforms.

The former president said he was in Edo State to express appreciation to the founder of Igbinedion University, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion for bestowing on him an honorary degree in November, 2019.

In his remarks, Governor Obaseki said he was delighted to receive the former President.

The governor noted that it is sad that a former governor of the state and suspended National Chairman of the All Progress Congress (APC), Comrade Adams Oshiomhole disregards protocol anytime he visits the state.

The governor noted, “It is really sad that someone who has been governor of the state is visiting the state and does not realise that courtesy demands he should inform the incumbent governor or other government apparatus of his visit. He doesn’t inform the chief executive who is in charge of his security when he is in the state.

“As someone who has served the country, courtesy demands that you inform the governor of the state that you are coming and if you have time during the visit, you can pay him a courtesy call. It is really sad and unfortunate that people who have served the state and who should know better behave the way they do, with impunity and lawlessness.”

*PHOTO NEWS:*
*S3_01:*
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki and former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, during the former president’s visit to the governor’s residence in Benin City, on Sunday, February 23, 2020.

Insecurity: LG Chairman solicits Edo Police boss's intervention

BENIN CITY - The Chairman, Ovia South- West Local Government Area, Comrade Destiny Enabulele has visited the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Mr Lawan Jimeta Tanko to intimate him on the security challenges in the area.

Enabulele was accompanied on the visit by senior government officials of the local government, including, the Vice Chairman, Hon. Fredrick Aimienwanwu, Secretary to the Local Government, Hon Obateru Oladimeji and Head of Local Government Administration (HOLGA), Mr. Otote T.

Briefing the Commissioner, Enabulele said that the security challenges in the area have overwhelmed the local government.

He said the security challenges bother on cult related matters, Fulani herdsmen, activities of drug pedlers, as well as shortage of manpower in the Police Division in Iguobazuwa, the local government headquarters.

While appealing for the Commissioner's intervention, he said that effort of the local government in setting up of vigilante group did not yield the desired result.

Responding, the Commissioner of Police disclosed that since assuming office in Edo, he has held consultations with stakeholders on the need not to lower the bar on security issues.

He said that cultism in the State has given him cause for serious concern, adding that plans were on by the State government to initiate a programme aimed at rehabilitating vulnerable youths in the State.

Advising parents to do their part, he also encouraged politicians against using youths for political gains.

According to him, plans are on to rationalise Police manpower distribution across the State for the purpose of ensuring even distribution.

*_By Paul Ohonbamu_*

Every state or people has the seed of its own redemption or destruction. It is a choice between Caesar and God; we cannot borrow the crown of Caesar without consequences. Governor Obaseki has gone far in turning around the fortunes and fame of Edo State and we cannot at this stage retrogress. That is the natural intent of those who want him out.

The battle here is between Governor Obaseki and Barabbas. Barabbas is that prisoner who was chosen by the crowd over Jesus Christ to be released by Pontius Pilate in a Customary Pardon before the feast of Passover. He committed insurgence, murder and robbery. Pilate gave the Jews a choice between Jesus and Barabbas, a well-known criminal. This is the choice before the people of Edo State today. In this piece, Barabbas is a metaphor for the four negative alternatives to Governor Obaseki. They are Osagie Ize lyamu, Charles Airhiavbere, Pius Odubu and Chris Ogiemwonyi. As unclear headed as the four, if they had shown ambition years before Obaseki, maybe, one would have emerged as being less unclear headed. After all, a winner will still emerge in a beauty contest organised for monkeys. Today, with Governor Obaseki, the objective condition has been altered and it is anachronistic to mention these elements when governance is involved.

Governor Obaseki parts ways with Osagie Ize-Iyamu and his co-travellers or even other politicians when it comes to what to do with the resources of the state. Here, we must admit, Obaseki stands alone or better still, he stands with the people. When one pays attention to the history of Osagie Ize-Iyamu and these other men, you will agree that they have only embarked on a journey through an unmarked road to an unknown destination. Your actions today as a custodian of state power is only history in slow motion. It is said that the Secretary to State Government is the engine room of that government and Ize-Iyamu was one.

Rather than use the position to assist the government to ensure the enhancement of the fortunes of Edo State, he rather preferred to use it to undermine progress in those years of underdevelopment and backwardness. He believes in primitive accumulation and arrogance of power. All the distortions and disarticulations that negate democracy reside in his bosom. Above all, he is an informal entrepreneur of violence. These are by no means part of the definition of good governance. Due to Ize-Iyamu’s influence in the government of Lucky Igbinedion being the executioner then, people now realize that Igbinedion is more sinned against than he ever sinned. During their time, government convulsed. The same thing applies mutatis mutandis to his other three colleagues who cannot be exonerated by history. With them, you will realise that the politician’s mouth has two edges like Esimuda’s sword. It is murder both ways. When they tell you their tale, ask them to wait till you bring a sieve. Whoever believes what they say has his ears blocked by the carcass of the truth. These men must face reality and know that the politics of “merit” and those of “cause and effect” cannot be sacrificed on the altar of luck and good omen.

Their only credentials and source of strength remain their reliance on Comrade Adams Oshiomhole who they believe is a true master of intimidation. With Bayelsa out and Edo State being the only APC State in South-South, great caution needs to be taken because as you can now see, the moment of victory is often the moment of greatest peril. This is instructive; otherwise APC in Edo State will take a long sleep before sunset. Oshiomhole and APC’s travails in Edo State show how a family can collapse over a collision of egos and insular pursuits.

History will judge everyone and the judgment of history is not subjective; neither can it be rigged. Ize-Iyamu and his cohorts have not done noble and they will be worse in time to come. As Gordon A.J. puts it “The hours of this present life are ages in embryo of life to come:”

Governor Obaseki’s account in Edo State is that of a faithful past and an expectant future. I make bold to say that the expectation and hope will not be dashed. He has set a template of a Comprehensive Primary Healthcare and Universal Basic Education system in the state which has been adopted at the national level. Through EdoJobs and the state’s empowerment scheme, many young men and women have been made bread winners, unlike before when they were beggars of bread. The categories of Obaseki’s achievements have no end.

The governor has gone far beyond people’s expectations and enemies of development just want there to be a detour which is a dangerous thing to do. As William Shakespeare puts it, “There is a tide in the affairs of men which taken at the flood lead to fortune, omitted all the voyage of their lives is bound in shallows and miseries.”

Let me say that on such a full sea we are now afloat. Again, St Paul reminds us, “The night is far spent, and the day is at hand.”

Altering this tidal wave of development would be a serious tragedy which is better as an omen than as fait accompli. Obaseki has the advantage of having the people with him and advantage is a better soldier than rashness. I know that this war will end without a negotiation; it will be a surrender. The people have spoken and their voices are loud and clear. We want Obaseki, not Barabbas.

I conclude with the words of Martin Luther King Jnr - “I will not, I shall not withdraw my statement until what I have said is proved against the dictates of the scriptures and reason, for to act against conscience is unsafe.”

*_Ohonbamu is Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation_*

The Edo State Government has called on all relevant security agencies to place the former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu and other members of the Edo Peoples Movement (EPM) under close surveillance in order to put an end to the sudden rise in the use of explosives to create a sense of insecurity in the state.

In a statement, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie said the security alert had to be sent because of the desperation of Ize-Iyamu and members of the EPM to throw the state into chaos to achieve their Machiavellian aims.

According to him, “With Ize-Iyamu and his colleagues in the EPM unhappy with the recent peace and reconciliation committee led by the distinguished statesman, Chief Bisi Akande, we gathered that they plan to orchestrate more mayhem to scuttle the APC peace process in Edo and possibly force President Muhammadu Buhari to declare a state of emergency in Edo State.

“This is most unacceptable and we are placing the relevant security agencies on notice that they should keep a close watch on Ize-Iyamu and other members of the EPM. The Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Army as well as antibomb squad and other relevant security operatives should monitor him and his acolytes closely.”

He continued: “It bears repeating that we did not witness any bomb blast in Edo State for a long time until the coming of Pastor Ize-Iyamu into the party. Before now, he had the reputation of being the only politician who falsely accused people of bombing his property, when it was obvious that he stage-managed such bombings. So, the resurgence of bombing in Edo in the wake of his coming only points to the fact that he brought such crude tactics with him to the EPM.”

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/south-south-regional/377073-obaseki-blames-oshiomhole-for-bombings-in-edo.html


*_February 12, 2020 Samson Adenekan_*

The Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has alleged that the recent trend of bomb detonation in the state is the third layer of Adams Oshiomhole’s plan to discredit him.

In a phone interview with PREMIUM TIMES, the governor’s spokesperson, Crusoe Osagie, said the explosion that rocked the residence of the factional secretary of All Progressives Congress (APC), Lawrence Okah, in the state, has nothing to do with the governor.

“The third move is now setting up bombs, blowing up places, and shooting empty buildings and so on.

“Their intent is to create an irretrievable breakdown of law and order in Edo State which is to necessitate declaring a state of emergency and seizing (of) government from Obaseki,” Mr Osagie told this reporter on Wednesday morning.

A bomb was detonated at Mr Okah’s residence around 12.30 am on Tuesday, leaving damaging impacts on the structure at large. Another was recovered by Nigerian police’s anti-bomb unit from the scene, the Vanguard newspaper reported.

Mr Okah accused the state governor of having a hand in this attempt on his life, even though the latter denied.

Mr Okah is one of those against Mr Obaseki’s second term governorship ambition.

This is the second time in eight days that his residence would be attacked. His residence was ridden with live bullets last week Tuesday by unknown gunmen.

“And again, on Tuesday at 12.30 a.m. (yesterday), I heard a sound, a boom. I called my security men and they said it sounded like a bomb. The one they threw into my bedroom did not detonate. If that one had detonated, you would not have seen me to talk to.

“That was targeted at my room. If it had exploded, it would have been a different story. I just want to advise Mr Governor. He has threatened me before and he has carried out the threat.

“By the grace of God, we are alive to speak to our people, to let them know what is going on. We pray to God for those we helped not to turn around against us. By the grace of God, I am one of those that helped this government to be but the governor has turned around now and wants to kill us,” the Vanguard quoted Mr Okah saying.

Meanwhile, the internal crisis in the Edo State chapter of the APC is one of the central concerns which informed the party’s reconciliatory committee inaugurated on Monday, in Abuja.

*_Obaseki’s Reaction_*

Mr Osagie recounted how Mr Oshiomhole has allegedly tried to oust Mr Obaseki, due to the latter’s alleged refusal to allow the former lord over his affairs in the state.

He said the rise in violence in the state started three months ago when Osagie Ize-Iyamu joined the party and teamed up with the Edo People Movement (EPM), a group allegedly sponsored by Mr Oshiomhole.

He appealed to the President and Inspector General of Police to pay special attention to the crisis in the state before it gets out of control.

“We believe they are going to intensify their violence in the coming days because the presidency and the national leadership of the party has just reconstituted an acceptable reconciliatory committee.

“The so called bombs going up were intentionally set up by this guys; Ize-Iyamu and some of these guys that work with Oshiomhole in the Edo People Movement (EPM) and their objective is to shake-up and distrupt the APC in Edo State,” the Governor alleged.

So far, no casualty was recorded neither has there been any arrest in relation to detonated bomb at Mr Okah’s residence.

*_Oshiomhole’s reaction_*

PREMIUM TIMES contacted Mr Oshiomhole for reactions to the allegations levelled against him by Mr Obaseki.

“I don’t have any comment nor reaction to the allegation,” Simon Ebegbulem, the Chief Press Secretary to the APC national chairman, said to this reporter.

*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said his administration is grooming youths to take up active roles in politics, so they can positively contribute to the development of society.

The governor said this at a thanksgiving service held at St Paul's Anglican Church, Iruekpen, Esan West Local Government, to celebrate the electoral victory of the member representing Esan West Local Government Area in the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Marcus Onobun.

Obaseki said, “We cannot continue to allow young people to believe that politics is about deception. We have to strengthen their faith that politics is a service to humanity and to God; that politics is about providing for the people.”

He said his administration through several reforms, is supporting youths to succeed, adding, “We have learnt that it is not about today, but tomorrow. We have to support the youth because Nigeria will be built by the young people we see today.

“If we don't support and encourage them, how would we secure our future? That is why I am committed to nurturing youths like Hon. Marcus.”

Obaseki noted that God brought his administration to being for a purpose, noting that if God wanted Edo to remain stagnant, he wouldn’t have brought him to power.

The governor also promised to provide N5 million empowerment fund for women in the church to improve their wellbeing.

In his remark, Hon Marcus Onobun, while commending Governor Obaseki for giving youths the platform to succeed in their various careers, described the governor as his mentor.

“The governor has given young people like me the opportunity to serve in his government, that is why I am in government today,” he added.

He pledged his continued loyalty to the governor and promised to live up to the confidence reposed in him by his constituents.

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*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S1_01:*
L-R: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Deputy Leader, Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA), Hon. Marcus Onobun, and his wife, Mrs. Onobun, during Hon. Marcus’s election victory thanksgiving, in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area.

*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has reiterated his commitment to reposition the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, into a world-class institution with full complements of infrastructure and human capital investments to drive Research and Development (R&).

Governor Obaseki, who said this during the inspection of construction works at the administrative building of the institution, expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work at the site.

He noted that remarkable progress has been recorded in the completion of the building project, while expressing optimism that the project would be completed and ready for use by February, 2020.

The governor said the next line of action includes the furnishing of the building, noting, “There is clearly remarkable progress since the last time we visited. During the last convocation ceremony, I promised that this property would be delivered before the end of 2019, but unfortunately, we had too many spillovers.”

Governor Obaseki was accompanied on the inspection visit by the Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu.

A representative of the contracting firm handling the project, Ishaya Bako, said the project is about 98 per cent complete, noting, “Work to be done include stone-base laying and asphalting. Internally, we are testing electrical and mechanical fittings.”

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*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S3_01:*
L-R: Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu and the state governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, during the inspection of construction works at the administrative building of the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.

_*4+4 To-Gba*_
*_#GGO2020 is non-negotiable_*

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=175655470508978&id=102363977838128

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said his administration will in February meet with stakeholders drawn from different sectors of the state to unveil a new policy on education.

The governor said this during a courtesy visit by leaders and members of the Baptist School of Theology, at Government House in Benin City.

Obaseki explained that the new policy would be reeled out during a roundtable on the education sector scheduled for February, noting, “We are convening a roundtable on the education sector within the next one month to reel out our new education policy and get as much input as possible from many partners.”

He said the investment the state government was making in the education sector would build a solid foundation for children at the basic education level, which emphasises learning than schooling.

“We need to rebuild the standard of our education at the basic level. Our institutions should be a reference point. We are aware of resource constraints and know that government alone cannot do achieve the kind of progress we desire. But we have decided to invest more in basic education,” he noted.

Obaseki said his administration shares same vision with the Baptist School of Theology for a society driven by strong education and moral standing, assuring them of his administration’s support in their programmes.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Board for the Baptist School of Theology, Mr Edwin Erhimwin, said they were on the visit to thank the governor for his solidarity with them on the occasion of the death of their former Chairman, late Arch. Eddy Eguavon.

He appealed to the governor to assist the school as they embark on a project to build a permanent site for the institution.

The chairman commended the governor, noting, “We encourage you on your education policies as you equip our children with education for service and development.”

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*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S1_01:*
R-L: Edo State Head of Service, Mr. Isaac Ehiozuwa; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Board Chairman, Baptist College of Theology, Mr. Edwin Erhimwin; Rector, Rev. Michael Oboh; and President, Edo Baptist Conference, Rev. Osahon Igbinidu, during a courtesy visit by members of Baptist College of Theology, at the Government House, Benin City.

A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), the Royal Ambassador Organisation of Nigeria, has declared support for the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration’s policies and programmes, targeted at ensuring sustainable peace across Edo.

The Council Adviser, Royal Ambassador, Mr. Charles Irikefe Uwhujorho, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the governor, at Government House, in Benin City.

The Royal Ambassador Organization of Nigeria is an arm of the Nigeria Baptist Convention, set up to kick against killings, kidnappings, cultism and political unrest in Nigeria.

Uwhujorho said the group decided to show support for the state government’s campaign against cultism, thuggery, political unrest and other social vices, especially as the state prepares for the 2020 gubernatorial election.

A representative of the governor and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Matters, Pastor Eghosa Omoruyi, said Governor Godwin Obaseki has demonstrated to be a man of peace, adding, “The governor stands for peace and preaches peace because without peace no meaningful development can take place.

He urged members of the group to take the message to youths across the state on the need to be responsible and embrace peace.

The State Co-ordinator, Anti-Social Vices, Pastor Paul Arasomwan, said, “We are in Government House to lend our voice as Royal Ambassadors of Baptist Conference. Our aim is to preach peace and also tell our youths to shun violence, kidnapping and other social vices in our society. All we preach is peace. We are saying yes to peace.”

*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S2_01:*
Representative of Edo State Governor and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Matters, Pastor Eghosa Omoruyi (left) and the Council Adviser, Royal Ambassador of Nigeria, Mr. Charles Irikefe Uwhujorho, during a courtesy visit to the governor, at Government House, in Benin City.

*

*_…Danjuma, other indigenes endorse gov for second term_*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has rolled out the impact of his administration’s reforms in basic education, primary healthcare, infrastructural development and other sectors of the state’s economy to Edo indigenes resident in Lagos.

The governor spoke during a Townhall meeting themed, ‘Edo Okpa No’ organised by Unuedo Renaissance for indigenes of Edo State resident in Lagos State.

The governor said pupils in secondary schools now learn three times more than they do in the old system while primary healthcare centers have been revamped to be better equipped, responsive and accessible.

Speaking on behalf of the indigenes of Edo State resident in Lagos, former Senator, Edo South Senatorial District, Dr. Daisy Danjuma, said the governor has the support of the Edos in Lagos, commending him for prioritising the development of the state.

Noting that her support for the governor remains despite the fact that she is a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), she said, “I am a Board of Trustee (BoT) member of the PDP, but I support the governor and his policies. I support him for a second term. I am for development. Let us forget politics; Let’s develop.”

Speaking on the focus of his government in developing Edo people to lead productive lives, the governor said, “We decided to focus on the fundamentals. We focused on people and on education, healthcare, security and jobs. Our development efforts are focused on developing our people, building infrastructure, and creating the space for economic prosperity.

“We have strengthened the education system, which is what the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EdoBEST) programme is about. If one doesn’t have literacy and numeracy skills, such a person won’t be able to survive in the world. That is why we implemented the Edo-BEST programme. We thank God that the world has acknowledged that we have gotten it right.

“Today, we have about 300,000 pupils in our public primary school system. I can tell you when a teacher or pupil is in class or when they have completed their lessons, from my office through technology.”

On reforms in the agricultural sector, he said the state government has recorded immense success with its agripreneur programme, which has impacted a lot of youths in the state.

“We are rebuilding the schools of agriculture. We have asked Okomu Plc, Nigeria Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR), Presco Plc and others to sit on the board of our schools of agriculture. This is so that they can teach the people they need to employ,” he added.

Continuing on why the Edos are successful, the governor said the success of Edo people is ingrained in their makeup as evidenced in the exploits of the Benin Kingdom, which attained sophisticated civilization and has thrived for thousands of years.

According to him, “We have a rich colonial heritage; we know who we are. We are Edo people. We have built infrastructure for thousands of years. Without bulldozers, we built the world’s largest earthwork known as the Benin moat. Without modern cutting tools, we created artworks that adorn museums across the world.

He said the reason why Edo people have excelled over thousands of years is because they possess natural endowment that others didn’t. some of them are existent in us today. one of the them is location. It is responsible for the influential empire.

“We are focused on primary healthcare. We have built the facilities. They have water, electricity and security,” he added.

On security, the governor said the state government has gotten the Nigerian Police to provide a helicopter in the state, which makes 3-hour strategic patrol of the airspace.

“There have been a number of reports in the area on kidnappings. With the help of the helicopter, we have been able to rescue some of those kidnapped. We hope to do more,” he said.

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*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S3_01:*
L-R: Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; his wife, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki; Edo State Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Barr. Anselm Ojezua, and Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq. during a Townhall meeting themed, ‘Edo Okpa No’ organised by Unuedo Renaissance for indigenes of Edo State resident in Lagos State, on Sunday, January 19, 2020.

*S3_02:*
L-R: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Senator Daisy Danjuma and the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Edo State, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe during a Townhall meeting themed, ‘Edo Okpa No’ organised by Unuedo Renaissance for indigenes of Edo State resident in Lagos State, on Sunday, January 19, 2020.

The Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, has called for a peaceful resolution of the political impasse in Edo State, noting that such was necessary for the development and advancement of the state.

Oba Akiolu said this on Sunday when the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki led members of the Edo State Executive Council and other notable sons and daughters from the state on a courtesy visit to his Palace, as part of activities for a Townhall meeting with Edo indigenes resident in Lagos State.

Notable dignitaries in the governor’s entourage include his wife, Betsy; Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu; Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq; the Chief of Staff to the governor, Chief Taiwo Akerele; Chairman, Edo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Barr. Anselm Ojezua, commissioners, special advisers and heads of agencies, among others.

Oba Akiolu said Edo and Lagos share a lot in common, noting that his forefathers traced their ancestry to Benin Kingdom, adding that it would only be proper for the two states to work together for mutual development and growth.

On the political impasse in the state, he said there was need for a truce that would be beneficial for all, noting, “Politicians don’t quarrel, they only agree to disagree later.”

“The friction must end on a peaceful note. No victor, no vanquish. I have told my son, here. What is paramount is this country is development and advancement,” he said.

In his response, the governor said the team is in Lagos to hold a town hall meeting with sons and daughters of Edo State, who live in Lagos.

“We cannot come here without coming to pay courtesies and obeisance to you,” he said.

According to the governor, “We are also here to say thank you for the fatherly love and support you have given us. Since I have been governor, you have visited Edo twice. Each time, you have been full of prayers for us.

“We want to tell them what we have done in the last three years and also seek their support as we move forward.”

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*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S1_01:*
R-L: Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; his wife, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, and Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, during the governor’s courtesy visit to the Oba’s Palace, as part of activities for a Townhall meeting with Edo indigenes resident in Lagos State, on Sunday, January 19, 2020.

*S1_02:*
L-R: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, and Wife of Edo State Governor, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, during the governor’s courtesy visit to the Oba’s Palace, as part of activities for a Townhall meeting with Edo indigenes resident in Lagos State, on Sunday, January 19, 2020.

*

*_…CP confirms reduction in crime rate_*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has disclosed that his administration is firming up strategies with relevant security agencies to tackle cases of farmer-herder clashes in the state.

The governor spoke to journalists after the Security Council meeting, held with the state’s security chiefs and other stakeholders at Government House, in Benin City.

Obaseki further reaffirmed the state government’s commitment towards improving the state’s security architecture in order to protect the lives and property of Edo citizens and residents.

Governor Obaseki, who urged citizens to support security agencies to combat crime in the state, said the meeting was a platform to review the security situation in Edo State.

He said, “We have had extensive consultation. We have 1,234 crime cases on record, out of which 850 are considered serious; we have spent time reviewing and doing in-depth analysis on the incidents and categories of crime, as well as the area it’s concentrated. Over the yuletide period, crimes in Edo were significantly reduced”.

The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Lawan Tanko Jimeta said through the collaborative efforts of security agencies, the state has experienced a significant drop in criminal activities.

On the farmer-herders clash, which led a sad incident in Sobe, he disclosed that the security agencies have agreed to have an extended security council meeting to meet with those concerned in other to prevent such killings in future.

"We know that this is the time and period of movement of cows and people around, we are putting strategy on ground to ensure it doesn't happen again.

On the case of a teacher kidnapped recently, he said, “The teacher has been released and reunited with her family. We thank the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Adamu for his support as the helicopter he approved for surveillance in the state led to the release of the victim. All the security agencies have agreed to work together in ensuring Edo State remains crime free".

Jimeta assured the people of Edo State that security agencies will do their best to ensure a peaceful election across the 18 Local Government Areas of the state, adding,  "All of us have agreed to work together with more synergy and put in place very broad strategies to ensure the election is free and fair".

Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Edo State, Prof. Oluyinka Omorogbe noted that the Ministry of Justice is working vigorously to attain a 50 percent decongestion of inmates in correctional centres.

"Our principle activity is prosecution. We are working hard to ensure all cases are dealt with promptly. The security council has mandated us to protect citizens’ right, urging us to report to it every month and ensure those awaiting trials are not unduly held behind bars. We are also to ensure decongestion through all the different legal ways and means that exist.”

*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S2_1:*
Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier Usman Bello; Edo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Yinka Omoregbe; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Edo State Commissioner of Police, Lawal Jimeta, and Edo State Sector Commander of Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), after the Security Council meeting, held at the Government House, Benin City.

_… ‘Ize-Iyamu currently charged by EFCC for N700m fraud’_

_… ‘Airhiavbere under suspension from APC’_

The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed a press conference held by members of the proscribed group, the Edo Peoples Movement, saying their agitations are fueled by greed and avarice.

Further discrediting their submissions, Chairman of the APC, Edo State, Barr. Anselm Ojezua, said two of the anchors of the meeting were bugled with severe malfeasance.

According to Ojezua, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who he described as Comrade Adams Oshiomhole’s mercenary of distraction, is currently facing Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charges of N700m fraud at a High Court in Benin City, while Gen. Charles Airhiavbere (Rtd) is currently suspended by the party in his local government area.

He described other participants in the press conference, including former Minister of State, Works, Engr. Chris Ogiemwonyi and former Edo State Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Odubu, as individuals who were on life support politically.

Ojezua said, “These dissidents, out of their greed and in reaction to the refusal of Governor Obaseki to share the state’s patrimony in satisfaction of their avarice, formed the Edo Peoples Movement (EPM) and began their agitation against the government, which have all failed.

“Their latest resort is this press conference aimed at extricating themselves from the consequences of the crisis, which they caused. One of the actors, Gen. Charles Airhiavbere (Rtd), is currently suspended from the party in his local government area for anti-party activities, which resulted from his decision to work against President Muhammadu Buhari and the APC National Assembly candidates in the last general elections.

“As for Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, he is simply a mercenary recruited by Comrade Adams Oshiomhole to accentuate the political tension in the APC and Edo State, even though he is still on his long walk towards becoming a member of the party; his membership is still in abeyance.

Meanwhile, he has started executing his ignoble assignment from Comrade Oshiomhole of creating tension in the party. He is currently facing a N700m-fraud charge brought against him by the EFCC.”

“Their action is taken in realisation of the fact that all attempts they have made in conspiracy with Comrade Adams Oshiomhole to destabilise the government in Edo State and create political distraction have failed.”

Ojezua maintained that in general, Edo people and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) both at home and abroad, understand the agitation of these individuals and are in firm support of Governor Godwin Obaseki and his administration.

On some of the issues raised at the conference, Ojezua said it was unfortunate that the dissidents do not understand the concept of party supremacy.

He noted, “The supremacy of the party is embedded in the rules contained in the constitution of the party, and not rested on any party officer, no matter how highly place. Everyone who is a member of the party must bow to the party’s constitution.

“Bowing to the whims and caprices of any individual no matter how highly placed when such a person is acting in violation of the constitution of the party does not amount to upholding party supremacy.

“Party supremacy does not rest in Abuja alone, but must be respected at every level of the party, from the ward, local government area, state and national levels. The national officers of the party, no matter how highly placed, must subject themselves to the supremacy of the party at these levels.”

He continued, “In one breath, they speak of the rule of law, yet in another they pay tribute to one Col. David Imuse (rtd) as chairman of the party in the state when there is a subsisting court order restraining him from parading himself as Chairman of the APC in Edo State. That same court ordered for status quo of Anselm Ojezua’s chairmanship of the party be maintained.”

On the call for a fresh proclamation of the House of Assembly, Ojezua said, “these individuals who claim to be apostles of the rule of law, have repeatedly condemned the proclamation of the Edo State House of Assembly by the Edo State Governor, when a court of competent jurisdiction specifically the Federal High Court, sitting in Port Harcourt, not only upheld the proclamation, but also restrained the governor from repeating the process.

“Even the current Chief Justice of State, Hon. Justice Edigin, subjected herself to the authority of the 7th Edo State House of Assembly, which these so-called democrats have continuously vilified.

Speaking on the National Reconciliation Committee set up by the APC’s National Working Committee, he said, “It must be known that we are not averse to reconciliation. However, the constitution of any National Reconciliation Committee must be done with respect to the dictates of Natural Justice. Parties to a dispute should not be allowed to adjudicate on matters where they have shown reasonable interest. This is the defect of the Reconciliation Committee set up by Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and a few associates within the National Working Committee.

“While we support the constitution of a Reconciliation Committee to clear the mess caused by Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and a few dissidents within Edo APC, it will be best constituted by President Muhammadu Buhari, who is the National Leader of the party, as was decided in the last National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja.”

Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, has berated the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Dan Orbih, for fabricating stories of an empty treasury against the state government to score cheap political points and save his ebbing political career.

In a statement, Osagie noted that the rumours of an empty treasury are products of Orbih’s imagination as they have no basis in fact.

According to him, “The chairman of the PDP in Edo State, Dan Orbih, has once again gone to town with yet another fabrication about an empty treasury in Edo State. To set the records straight, the accusation is false, misleading and ill-conceived.

“But we are familiar with Orbih and such beer-parlour gossip is his stock-in-trade. As chairman of the PDP, which is about to hold its congress, he is seeking means to be relevant amid plans to oust him from office.

“But we are happy to report to Edo people that we have maintained a healthy balance sheet, with perhaps the most transparent and prudent government in the country.

“The Debt Management Office (DMO) attested to this during the last Alaghodaro Summit, during which the state was given a healthy rating.”

Osagie stressed that the state government also runs one of the most transparent budgeting process in the country and has a pact with the people to ensure an open government, which makes it possible for citizens to assess by themselves the financial standing of the state.

“Annual reports are published yearly. We are also signatories to a number of conventions on open governance and having maintained an open book for citizens who intend to follow the money trail in government. So, we wonder from where Orbih got his own facts from. He should be completely disregarded,” he said.