blackboy:
They should please remove pastor from his name. African man cant manage Mr. The one in Aso Rock maybe if he was not a Prof he too would have been using Pastor title.
I know this Edo man as a politician. Which church does he pastor? Is he a clergyman or a politician?

He is a Pastor in Redeem Christian Church.

The frontline aspirant of the All Progressives Congress in Edo state, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu has urged the Edo state government to display transparency in its management of the coronavirus disease in the state, particularly in the area of finance and expenses after the Governor claimed in a broadcast that his administration had spent over a billion naira.

In a live broadcast livestream on his Facebook page in the capital city of Benin, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu harped on the importance of honesty, accuracy, and transparency in winning the fight against COVID-19 and charged the state government to offer example by disclosing, in specific detail, its expenditures on palliatives, among other costs which the governor said claimed over a billion naira.

He said: “Accuracy, honesty, and transparency are important values that both government and citizens alike must display for our efforts to yield success. The state government must lead by example in this regard by communicating plainly and truthfully its interventions, the state of affairs, and new developments when they arise. A good way to start would be to disclose, in specific detail, the financial assistance it has offered to medical institutions in Edo state especially from the over N1 Billion the government claimed it has spent in the fight against COVID-19, including a breakdown of expenditures for palliatives.”

Whilst discouraging the use of propaganda and concealment of official information, Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu presented measures that could help the state’s local economy as it makes adjustment to stamp out COVID-19 and how to ensure that people remain alive and in business post-covid-19.

Citing the projections of the International Monetary Fund that predicted Nigeria’s economy could record a negative growth of over 3 percent and the observed reality that the [informal] service sector, the largest contributor to Edo state’s GDP, is most affected by the implemented COVID-19 restrictions, Pastor Ize-Iyamu called for “innovative and palliative measures to immediately respond to the effect of this pandemic, and pro-actively deal with the grim projections.”

In addition to increasing testing capacity to quickly identify confirmed cases and ensuring proper distribution of relief items devoid of already reported diversions and embezzlement, he urged the government to “to articulate an aggressive policy response [in the agriculture sector] to ensure that with the onset of the raining season farmers in the state are encouraged, through fiscal intervention and agricultural extension services, to increase food-crop and animal production across the entire state. In this regard, we urge the government to reach out to all stakeholders in the agricultural sector with a view to quickly formulating the necessary policy intervention in the agricultural sector of the state in response to the pandemic.”

“We urge the government to initiate and encourage the mass production of protective gears and sanitary products such as face masks, protective gloves, and hand sanitizers. The Ize-Iyamu Support Organization and other well-spirited persons have reached out to local tailors and seamstresses to mass-produce face masks using our local fabrics to be freely distributed across the state. This and other suggested measures will yield multiplier effects by increasing cash flow within the state thereby re-energizing the state’s economy which is already suffering from the negative effect of the pandemic,” he further recommended.

Pastor Ize-Iyamu urges Edo state government to end diversion of relief items by middlemen, other officials

The leading aspirant of Edo APC, Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu has called on the state government to investigate claims of diversion of relief items meant for distribution to the people to cushion the effect of COVID-19 restrictions by its officials and other distributors engaged in the exercise.

Immediately after the state-wide distribution exercise embarked on by Pastor Ize-Iyamu Support Organization that saw thousands of families get donations of food staples and other essentials in a rancor-free process across the 18 LGAs of Edo state, the state government followed suit with its own food distribution efforts. However, there has been several allegations of diversions and embezzlement of the items by government officials and other assigned political actors placed in charge of the distribution.

In a live broadcast livestream via his Facebook page in Benin City today, Pastor Ize-Iyamu urged the government to design a better distribution process that eliminates middlemen and ensures that the items reach the people in need of them directly.

He said: “We recognize that the state government has taken some steps to alleviate the consequences of disruptions caused by the pandemic even though we believe more can be done to ensure that the distributed relief items reach the very poor in need of them. At the moment, the state government’s effort is bedeviled by enduring accusations of middlemen who divert items and prevent them from achieving intended objectives - this must be addressed.”

Suggesting measures the government could adopt to keep the state’s economy alive, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu called for tax breaks and government patronize of farmers and other indigenous producers of essentials needed in the fight against the coronavirus disease.

He said: “As a further measure to defeat the virus, we urge the government to initiate and encourage the mass production of protective gears and sanitary products such as face masks, protective gloves, and hand sanitizers. The Ize-Iyamu Support Organization and other well-spirited persons have reached out to local tailors and seamstresses to mass-produce face masks using our local fabrics to be freely distributed across the state. This and other suggested measures will yield multiplier effects by increasing cash flow within the state thereby re-energizing the state’s economy which is already suffering from the negative effect of the pandemic.”

“An important measure which must attract the state government attention at this point, more than ever before, is the agricultural sector of the state. We urge government to articulate an aggressive policy response to ensure that with the onset of the raining season farmers in the state are encouraged, through fiscal intervention and agricultural extension services, to increase food-crop and animal production across the entire state. In this regard, we urge the government to reach out to all stakeholders in the agricultural sector with a view to quickly formulating the necessary policy intervention in the agricultural sector of the state in response to the pandemic. The overall objective is to ensure wide-spread availability of food during and after these anxious times.”

Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu also recommended to the government to increase its testing capacity to quickly discover and isolate infected persons, and the need to embrace honesty and transparency in communications surrounding the disease and government expenditures after claims by the governor that the state had spent over a billion naira generated controversy and spurred allegations of fraud.

Why must the name of one man rend the air of Edo State political discourse, some persons may ask, marveling at the rising and rising popularity and acceptance ratings of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu in the recent weeks. Attempts to answer this question will lead objective observers into finding the salt and substance of this man, into why he is rightly dominating, if not dictating the direction of political discourse in Edo.

Yet, one man’s illustrious relevance is another’s gloomy obscurity, and for this, Pastor Ize-Iyamu’s increasing fame can never settle well with everyone. While the lovers of innovative thinking, transparent leadership, and sustainable development, judging by the Pastor’s antecedents, will ride on a supportive wave, the people who, for some reasons majorly selfish, irked by this growing popularity and large support base, will begin calculations to detract from the wave.

But this, too, proves a tough job for these people who are faced with the insurmountable task of denting the image of a man whose history has no dirt, whose life is a model adopted across states and faiths by so many individuals.

What is usually pointed at is the forlorn 700 million Naira saga, a case that has been established to hold no merit.

Beginning in 2015, the case has since then died off in installment as the year goes by. Yet it is not even a shoddy death, rather a transparent and clear legal refutation of the merit of the case. The matter has been dismissed, various jurists and judges finding no ingredient of embezzlement or laundering or whatever ludicrous charges raised against the Pastor.

This same case indicted other individuals from other states and have had their lawsuit whipped out of court, proclaimed a no-case. Most recently is the example of Yobe State and the PDP party members whose experience, again, reveals the pointlessness of the whole propaganda.

Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, certain of his innocence, has more than a few times explained, in clear terms, what transpired with the funds. The money did not originate from the government, rather it was a fund raised by party stakeholders for the specific purpose of the period’s presidential election. This automatically makes the experience a party matter, yet Pastor Ize-Iyamu has followed inquiries with an even more transparent approach, allaying suspicions of embezzlement.

The fund, the Pastor, has confirmed, came in and was immediately signed for onward distribution to pertinent wards for mobilization and other campaign purposes it was generated for. The late party chieftain, Chief Tony Anineh, admitted to this fact and was willing to reveal documents that testified to this upright account.

Clearly, there are people who would want to raise the matter again, for reasons best known to them even as they are aware that the case holds no water and similar cases have been severally struck out of court in different states. It is no more than propaganda, the often referral to the case, most likely employed to deflect attention from more pressing concerns.

The popularity of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, and his rapidly growing acceptance by the people, has not done any good to the situation. If anything, it worsens it because it appears, it is the very reason fueling the callous efforts. However, what matters most is that fact is always laid to the public even as propaganda, in their usual sensationalism, seem to be the amplifier of this fruitless onslaught.

The ultimate ambition of this charade, we suspect, is to intimidate the Pastor into forfeiting his aspiration. If this is not possible, then at least to cast him in the wrong light, and draw the ire of the public. For the moment, no one knows who is resuscitating the concluded matter, trying to force it into mainstream conversation, and what their true aim is.

Nevertheless, all propaganda shares a common fate: an eventual demise, a certain exhaustion and running out of steam because truth, no matter how hard and deep it is ran into the ground, will still rise like the virgin sun of morning, and shine bright like a diamond in the sky. Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu is the truth.

The frontline aspirant of the All Progressives Congress in Edo state, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu has warned that implementing a complete lockdown in Edo state without accompanying state-wide efforts to cater to the needs of the people and provide them with food and care would lead to starvation and create worse problems for the government as it tackles the challenge of COVID-19.

He said this in an interview at KU FM in Benin City on Thursday where he argued for a revised approach in the management of COVID-19 that reflects the realities of Edo state, instead of replicating measures advanced in European countries where the government has a comprehensive database of its people and the resource strength to provide food and other basic needs to everyone in an inclusive and fast manner.

Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu said that although lockdown could help to prevent an introduction of the virus, the measure has run its course in Edo state where confirmed cases have already been recorded. He appealed to the government to consider other measures including an improved testing capacity for quick identification of cases and isolation of infected persons, social distancing to slow spread, and economic interventions targeted at special sectors, instead of shutting down the state’s economy and locking people up in their homes to battle with the unforgiving pangs of hunger.

He said: “COVID-19 started in China and spread quickly to European countries, so a lot of other countries are looking up to these regions of the world to copy their handling of the situation and the total lockdown they implemented. However, that would be problematic for a state like Edo because of our different realities. Without the database of residents and the resources to swiftly provide food and other basic needs to everyone in their respective homes, lockdown in Edo state will only trigger mass starvation of the people and could also lead to hunger-driven opportunistic crimes.”

“Instead of shutting down the whole state without really providing what the people can survive on, I appeal to the state government to consider a partial lockdown and focus resources on supplying food to the people through investments in rural farming, set up of a food bank and special food markets, wider testing capacity across the states to promptly identify infected persons and isolate them, social distancing in markets and other similar areas, and motivation for health workers through investments in their working environment and personal reward.”

Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu also advised the government to intervene in certain sectors badly affected by the situation, including the entertainment scene where entertainers, food vendors, and other similar service providers are put out of job and unable to pool income for their upkeep.

“After providing food, hand sanitizers, and other relief items to thousands of families in Edo state in collaboration with my wife, Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu, and friends, we have now begun to mass-produce local face masks to further protect our people and to provide a means for tailors in our states to also earn income at this difficult time. I appeal to the government to also make similar investments in the economy by patronizing local service providers in the state and creating safe means for them to get by.”

He urged the government to work with NGOs and other civil society groups in its food distribution efforts to prevent diversion of the items and ensure that it reaches people in most need of them.

A frontline aspirant of the All Progressives Congress in Edo state, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu ahead 2020 governorship election yesterday condemned the level of insecurity in the state and streak of attacks on farmers in rural communities across the state which led to the killing of two farmers in Odighi, Ovia North-East local government area by suspected armed herdsmen.

In a statement he issued, Ize-Iyamu expressed worry that there is a possibility of a clash between suspected hoodlums and security agencies as being witnessed in some states if the state government does not take appropriate steps to retrieve arms purportedly circulating in the state.

He said with the recent attacks on the homes and offices of some politicians in the state, the government need to do more to retrieve such arms from circulation.

He said:

“The spate of violent attacks recorded in Edo state especially on farmers working to ensure availability of food to their families and in their communities in light of government failure and restrictions represents a grave concern and has caused a feeling of helplessness across the state.”

“I received the unfortunate report of the killing of two farmers in Ovia North East Local Government by marauding herders. It is not the first time the state has recorded such deaths and people are increasingly losing faith in the government’s ability to carry out its primary objective of protecting their lives and welfare. “

Only recently, the Governor of the State increased his security vote from 500 million naira monthly to 750 million naira, perhaps in acknowledgement of the worsening state of security under his watch.

Worryingly, this improvement has sadly not reflected in the sum pledged to security agencies in the state and even their meagre stipends, according to what I’ve been told, has been irregular.”

The Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has been his unusual self as the coronavirus pandemic continues to ravage nations and societies. It would have been a period of pride for Edo State and its leaders as they were tasked with hosting the year’s National Sports Festival, which would have been closely followed by election primaries.

However, as Obaseki continues to flicker like a candle exposed to harmattan breeze, failing to provide visionary and courageous leadership in the pandemic, one begins to wonder the true cause of his depression. Is it that suddenly, Obaseki has become deeply patriotic and fallen in deep love with Edo State, such that the failure for the National Sports Festival to carry on as planned greatly hurt his health?

Far from it! Obaseki remains a self-serving incompetent governor, one devoid of vision and charisma, whose dullness only lifts for criminal cleverness at the prospects of embezzlement or at the instances of violence. What depresses Obaseki at the moment is not unconnected to his deputy, Philip Shaibu, who doubles as his henchman. This time, the planning and preparation for the National Sports Festival were delegated to Philip Shaibu who, in concert with his principal, did a shoddy job.

The plan, as found out, was simple. Philip Shaibu, with the blessings of Obaseki, had gone ahead to borrow a lot of sporting equipment instead of buying and securing them permanently for the state. This borrowing meant they do not have to buy these tools and equipment at the true prices which, although bloated, they had already withdrawn the six billion naira budgeted for it from the state treasury. This setting and plan, initially conceived without factoring the coronavirus outbreak, hoped that the Sports Festival will carry on so that they would justify their spending, if not embezzlement.

Unfortunately, the coronavirus came sooner than expected, hence putting things to hold as society has gone on total shut down. Following this new and unexpected reality, adjustments needed to be made, as seen all over the world. Internationally, sporting events like the national leagues, Europe’s Champions League, and the Olympics, were all suspended.

However, Governor Obaseki, through his deputy Shaibu, told the world they were ready to carry on with the festival, even as gatherings of large crowd are being banned globally.

Obaseki wanted to use the National Sports Festival, like people usually say in Nigeria, as one stone that will kill two birds for him. First, to divert funds that would not be accounted for, which has already been achieved through a shabby renovation of the stadium and borrowing of equipment instead of buying them. And secondly, to make the festival artificially flashy and huge, in order to use it as a tool to score campaign points in the coming party primaries.

And that brings us, again, to the same point about this administration: they do not truly care about the people. The world saw them ready to move ahead with the sports festival, willing to put lives to risk just to cover up their embezzlement and corruption tracks. Except for the timely intervention of the Federal Government, Edo State would have been the Nigerian epicenter of coronavirus just because of the selfish ambitions of two men who are now depressed that their wicked plan didn’t pull through.

Sadly, we are told hoteliers and food vendors among other services have been fully paid even before the commencement of the festival and as such, there are no refunds for services that were not rendered - our elected officials may have simply diverted the budgeted N6B for the Edo 2020 sports festival.

An NGO, Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa, has accused the Obaseki-administration of emptying the coffers of the Edo state government, leaving the state cash-strapped as it tries to deal with the spread of COVID-19.

The group says the state government had deployed state resources in its “Oshiomhole-must-go” campaign and is now plotting to obtain secret loans from the capital market.

The accusation is coming days after the Edo state NMA, in a clear disapproval of the state government’s handling of COVID-19, wrote a letter to the governor complaining of lack of face masks and other protective equipment for health workers in the state.

In a statement signed by its Edo State Coordinator, Mallam Shaibu Abdulsalam, the NGO said, “Having spent a lot of money for the wrong purposes, Governor Godwin Obaseki’s spendthrifty character returns to haunt him. First of all, the financial thread of Obaseki’s administration cannot be traced because the government is shy of accountability. But now, frayed by the coronavirus pandemic and the expensive requirements needed to combat the spread, the government is exposed, its atrocities brought to its face.”

“For a government that its expenditures, due to its stealthy behaviors, cannot be traced, we can only start from where we can in understanding why the government is broke. The most recent cause for extravagance spending was not even a project that would benefit the masses. It was the Oshiomhole-must-go ambition, led by Obaseki himself, funded by millions of dollars drawn from the state treasury. And this failed mission, obviously, was a personal vendetta executed with public funds.”

“Still fumbling from this loss, its pocket running low, the administration suddenly woke up to one of its responsibilities. Edo State was meant to host the year’s National Sports Festival, an honor that should, if properly handled, generate revenue for Edo State and also stimulate economic growth through the boom small businesses would experience serving the needs of the visiting sports enthusiasts.”

“But this sports festival, with its great promises, asides being cut short by the coronavirus pandemic, was bungled by the Obaseki-led administration. Like the global Olympic sports festival, to make financial successes out of such events, the host must first invest wisely through constructing architectural structures with appealing aesthetics. Followed up by well planned awe-inspiring chain of activities, visitors and spectators are treated to a great entertaining experience, hence compelling them to relax and spend.”

“The government had no such grand plan, nor the sincere intention to make greatness out of the festival. The most immediate proof of this is the shoddy, hurried job they did with the hosting stadium. However, underwhelming performance by this government no longer draws surprises, rather what is shocking, and at the same time horrible, is the enormous sum of money they claim to have expended for the purpose of this same shabbily prepared sports festival. Worse, this dishonest extravagance, this glaring corruption, ultimately, rendered the state poor, broke, and beggarly.”

“The beginning of this problem was the unwise and unwarranted expenditures channeled towards ousting the National Chairman of the party, Adams Oshiomhole. In effecting the mission Obaseki had greatly used his deputy, Philip Shaibu, and in reward Obaseki granted him a license to loot, using the guise of the stadium renovation. This was how Edo State came to financial tatters, helpless before a ravaging virus outbreak, now having to resort to the help rendered by private individuals and austere measures like owing salaries, slashing Edo State House of Assembly and judiciary overhead payments, and tasking wards. Nevermind that the same Governor refuses to slash his 700 million naira security vote.”

“The government is now running helter-skelter, looking for where to borrow money, consequently piling up debts for the state. Worse, there is an election coming up later in the year, one that the incumbent government is very likely to lose, going by public opinion and expert forecast. Consequently, the debt burden this administration is about to incur would be borne by the incoming government.”

“This kind of future, and the state’s present experiences, is a cause for worry. A present of cap-in-hand begging, and a future of repayment of bottomless debt. The greatest statement of despair was the ironical charity of the Commissioner for Justice, Prof Yinka Omorogbe, who was seen on Thursday donating food items to some people in her office.”

“With the compulsory deductions from the 18 local governments to aide the state government efforts to provide relief package, salaries cannot be paid at the LG levels. It is the understanding of the danger this poses, especially as the lockdown rule swings into full motion, leaving citizens owed and not provided for by a now broke government, that warranted the Commissioner of Justice into charity, compelling her to commend the activities of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the frontline APC gubernatorial aspirant.”

“The commissioner is an insider and she knows the true nature of things. She too is at the receiving end of slashed payments and owed salaries, hence, if she is doing charity, thanking those doing same, and urging more private individuals to join the effort, then there is fire on the mountain, and we are calling the public’s attention to it.”

The frontline aspirant of the All Progressives Congress in Edo state, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, has sent a congratulatory message to former Chief of Staff to Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and Representative of Oredo Federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon on his birthday.

In a message released by his Campaign Organization, Pastor Ize-Iyamu described Honorable Patrick Obahiagbon as a true statesman who has contributed greatly to the physical and intellectual development of Edo state and Nigeria.

He also praised his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress and enduring steadfastness in good and bad times, and prayed that God’s blessings, protection, and guidance remains with him and his family.

As I woke up this morning & meditated, this is what d Holy Spirit embossed on my heart:

"where did we miss it?"

As a humble Bible scholar & one who has studied Christian history from d beginning till Jesus returns finally to rule d entire globe: it should be noted that most cataclysmic events in our known history were foretold,

which prepared d hearts of God's children.

In Gen. 15,

God foretold Abraham,

400 yrs b4 d terrible famine that ravaged Egypt.

Even b4 d famine struck, Pharaoh, a heathen King of Egypt received revelation of d mayhem.

Although d dream could not be interpreted by His magicians, because d carnal mind cannot understand d things of d Spirit because they are Spiritually discerned.

However,

Joseph who was covenanted wit God gave Pharaoh d interpretation.

It might interest u also to know that d blue print of d major events to happen from King Nebuchadnezzar "s era till d end of d world was revealed to d Babylonian heathen King Nebuchadnezzar in Dan. 2.

Remember, d dream was interpreted by Prophet Daniel. Daniel said d great image with 5 body parts made of diff. materials are 5 kingdoms from Nebuchadnezzar's reign to d last world empire under d Antichrist, which will be obliterated by Jesus who will come down physically to reign on earth forever.

Friends,

in order to shorten my treatise,

wen I tot about d fact that such calamitous CORVID19 PANDERMIC,

could take d whole world by surprise despite d avalanches & compendiums of prophets all over d world that far out numbers d entire prophets since history to Bible time made me sad,

& d big question is,

"where did we miss it?"

It is unfortunate that our modern day spiritual high tech interceptors could not intercept this gigantic evil but we've been intercepting miracle money's etc,

wat a shame!

We should all including me hide our heads in shame that. our interceptors need modification.

Instead we've become confused & d same event have been interpreted by Spiritual authorities to mean different divergent issues.

Wen has d infallible Holy Spirit become divergent?

Even d big Holy Bible written by 40 authors in different locations & different ages all are convergent .

Well,

friends,

to conclude,

let me beg all Christians to get back to d Bible.

On a final note for d moment,

let me comfort us.

Fear not.

D CORONA19 virus is d small picture of global events in d end times.

D global picture of d end times as revealed in d Bible still remains d same...

God's sequence of events has not changed.

D Rapture is next, followed by d 7 yrs great tribulation which will precede d Millennium (1,000yrs) reign of Jesus b4 d white judgment of all sinners.

Shalom.

Watch & pray friends.

Last week, in a bid to score cheap political goals, give false hopes and further endanger the lives of Edo State people, the Obaseki administration announced that it has purchased 28 ventilators and the converted the Stella Obasanjo Hospital into an Isolation Centre.

But when this newspaper went to town to investigate the veracity of the claims, we discovered that the Obaseki administration lied about both the fact and the costs of the so-called ventilators.

Contrary to the huff-puff public claims of Governor Godwin Obaseki, that the administration has 28 ventilators purchased and ready in the state, what exists, in reality, is that they bought Anastasia machine and not really ventilators.

According to an Anastasia consultant in UBTH who craved anonymity, he said that “it is true that Anastasia machine may offer respiratory functions like a ventilator but cannot be used for more than 24 hours. Due to the fact that Corona Virus infection takes a longer time to treat, and patients are kept for many days, even weeks, and some patients needing ventilators may be there for many days, an Anastasia machine is not appropriate. You need ventilators. What Edo State government bought isn’t ventilator but anastasia machine.”

Information from other credible sources on ground at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital has confirmed that, watching the video online which the government released in the hope of making Edo people believe that they actually bought ventilators, the government of Godwin Obaseki did not purchase any ventilator as publicly claimed. What was bought, instead, were Anesthesia Machines.

Worsening the situation, deeper investigation has shown that those machines, which the Commissioner fit Health publicly stated to cost 14 million naira each, in reality, costs slightly above 1 million naira but below 2 million naira.

For security reasons, these concerned UBTH and ISTH sources pleaded anonymity but their brave revelation points the distressed people of Edo to the real faces of our collective persecutors and traitors.

As if lacking all sense of decency and responsibility, this administration chooses this perilous time of existential crisis to endanger their people, enrich their pockets and defraud the people of Edo State.

Meanwhile, Nigeria Medial Association, Edo State has faulted Obaseki’s preparedness in tackling the Corona Virus epidemic in Edo State.

In a letter from the Association, addressed to the Executive Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, and signed by Dr. Omoifo Valentine, the body has made their displeasure known to both the public and to the government.

The medical body cited key points that informed their dissatisfaction: the failure to close the state borders as already done by other states, the failure to properly enforce the social distancing measure, a failure to provide sufficient Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to doctors and other frontline medical staff, and the non-functionality of the isolation center at the Stella Obasanjo Hospital. These factors, the body duly noted, thwarts the efforts of the state’s medical chapter in combating the deadly virus.

Other concern raised by the body includes the suggestion to provide incentives for medical staff and other frontline officers in order to motivate them in the battle against the virus. This could come in the form of increased allowances and possible tax reliefs. The body equally stirred a simmering concern: a wide-ranging insurance policy that will cover the medical workers and their families. Also, the body noted the state government’s effort to train healthcare personnel across the state but equally expressed their disappointment in the state’s inability to provide for the camping team at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH).

The body pointed out at the sparse and stingy flow of information, stressing that such will inhibit swift response and optimum performance by medical workers. Ultimately, the body reassured their readiness to work to the best of their ability and fortitude as they combat the coronavirus.

However, despite ending on a hopeful note, the issues raised by the body gave serious cause for concern. It revealed the general demotivating approach of the government to the pandemic. The whole plot reeks of indifference, unreadiness, and total aloofness. Yet, Edo State, by witnessing its index case a bit later than the flashpoints states of Lagos and Abuja, had the ample opportunity to study, learn, and understand effective measures and methods employed by these states. Unfortunately, it appears like nothing was learnt.

The frontline aspirant of the All Progressives Congress, Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu, emerged today as the leading topic on social media site, Twitter, as residents of Edo state and other parts of the country commend his aid efforts and other interventions aimed at offering relief to the poor and other vulnerable groups in Edo state following the record of the novel coronavirus disease and government restrictions.

Pastor Ize Iyamu had, from yesterday Friday 3rd, began sending lorry load of food items and other relief materials to all senatorial zones of Edo state, in continuation of previous sensitization efforts that saw his campaign organization produce and distribute thousands of sanitizers and informational materials to residents of the state, including essential service providers such as health workers, journalists and bus drivers.

The food items were delivered to those in need of them without conditions or consideration for political leaning, ethnicity or beliefs as Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu, in one of his address, explained that he believes that lockdown of communities must be followed with sufficient plans to care for the poor to prevent mass starvation and hunger-driven violence.

Residents of the state took to social media to praise the actions of Pastor Ize Iyamu, hailing him for setting a positive example for other people of means, including politicians, to emulate. Some recounted his previous aid efforts at sensitive periods, describing him as a rare politician with genuine care for the people.

The Pastor Ize Iyamu Campaign Organization in charge of the food distribution effort has released two helplines for residents in Edo South in genuine need of food items to call for quick response and dispatch. They are 07046373027 and 08114046290.

Pastor Ize Iyamu’s aid efforts, according to some of those who commended his efforts on social media, is the first organized response to COVID19 in the state structured to cater for the often neglected who suffer the brunt of the restrictions more than everyone else. They urged the state government to heed his call to set up a food bank in rural communities to help poor families gain access to food and other basic needs.

Just over twenty four hours ago, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, an Edo State APC governorship hopeful, in continuation of his humanitarian contribution to tackling the Coronavirus pandemic in Edo State, rolled out the second phase in his series of programme. Prior to this time, he had been involved in an elaborate media public sensitization campaign. At a press conference in his office in Benin City, Pastor Ize-Iyamu with his amiable wife, Prof. (Dr.) Idia Ize-Iyamu, a Professor of Orthodontics at the University of Benin, unveiled tens of thousands of hand sanitizers, masks and a variety of foodstuffs to be distributed among the most vulnerable members of the society at this critical period, across Edo State.

In his speech, the Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God emphasized that the sanitizers were in the first instance to be given to those, who in spite of the stay at home order invoked by government, would find themselves moving about to provide essential services. In this category of persons are the commercial bus drivers, health care providers, security personnel, journalists, sellers in the markets, and et cetera. Similarly, the food items were to be given to the vulnerable, including low wage earners, orphanages and other less privileged.

The most striking thing about Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu's humanitarian gift is the fact that he would be the first donor in Edo State to include food supplies among protective gears. Another remarkable thing about this gesture is that it was done against the backdrop of Ize-Iyamu’s understanding that the war against the Coronavirus would be difficult to win if the people, who had been forced into confinement, are not provided for by the more fortunate in the society. In recognition of the fact that his singular gesture could not provide the ultimate solution to feeding the people, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu called on other privileged Edo people, who are in the thousands, to rise up to the occasion of making their contributions towards making food available for all at this difficult period. Also, he especially called on the Edo State Government to with a sense of obligation use the resources at its disposal to establish food banks around the state, from where the needy could be taken care of.

However, some persons have misinterpreted Ize-Iyamu's rather laudable call on the state government to establish food banks as an attempt to put the State Governor, Godwin Obaseki in a difficult spot. Some have called it an electioneering gimmick, given that Pastor Ize-Iyamu is seen as the major threat to the reelection of Godwin Obaseki. Ize-Iyamu among other aspirants, is challenging Governor Godwin Obaseki to the APC Governorship Ticket at the primary which comes up in June. What they may not know is that the situation on ground only naturally stimulated Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu to express a fragment of his vison of Edo State. The mention of food banks, patronizing local farmers and traders and keeping government funds in circulation within the Edo economy are principles already articulated in Ize-Iyamu's written manifesto, THE SIMPLE AGENDA, which was first presented to the Edo public in the run up to the 2016 Governorship Election. Therefore, it was not just an idea he plucked from the blues to challenge the governor. It is rather a reflection of how Ize-Iyamu would have responded to the situation on ground if he were the governor at this material time.

Let me emphasize that Ize-Iyamu is a man that has always made the difference when faced with the challenge of governance. He has proved this overtime. He did so in his respective capacities as the Chief of Staff to Edo State Governor and Secretary to Edo State Government between 1999 and 2007. He made the difference when he was the DG of the Governor Adams Oshiomhole Reelection Campaign Organization in 2012. He also distinguished himself as Vice Chairman, South South of the ACN, now APC, and as a member of the APC Constitution Draft Committee in 2014. It is for this his exceptional quality that Ize-Iyamu has always been a victim of envy and adversarial campaigns of calumny instigated and sponsored by persons who want to seen him obliterated from the political firmament of Edo State where he has remained constant like the Northern Star, unbowed and undiminished.

In conclusion, it would not be wrong to say that Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu is a man in whose DNA is the penchant for making a difference. Therefore, one cannot but be confident in the belief that if he became the governor of Edo State, he would definitely make a difference. And at a time like this, Edo people would have been rest assured that with Ize-Iyamu's foresightedness, empathetic nature and capacity to mobilize men and materials, they would have weathered the storm of this Coronavirus restrictions, if not with very full stomachs but definitely not with empty ones.

The leading aspirant of the All Progressives Congress in Edo state, Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu has today Thursday the 2nd of April, announced the appointments of 13 directors into his campaign organization.

The appointed directors and their positions are:

1. Hon. Charity Amanyaevbo - Director of Mobilization

2. Hon. Kehinde Garrick - Director of Special Duties

3. Mr. Gideon Obhakhan - Director of Research

4. Hon. Almed Momoh - Director of Welfare

5. Engr Tom Eshemogie - Director of Administrations

6. Chief Barr Frank Erewele - Director of Logistics

7. Abu Momodu - Director of Finance

8. Mrs. Jubrin Mariam - Director of Women Mobilization

9. Hon. Pius Alile - Director of Strategy

10. C.P Victor N. Ojo (Rtd)- Director of Security

11.Amb. Johnson Iyamu - Director of Youth Mobilization

12. Mike Igaga - Director of NGOs

13. Mr. John Mayaki -Director of Communication & Media.

14. Ms Tinyan Otuomagie - Director of News Media

A statement from the campaign organization announcing the appointments read: “To drive the SIMPLE agenda of Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu’s campaign and consolidate on the gains recorded, we have assembled a cast of seasoned political campaigners and highly-experienced professionals with diverse skillsets and knowledge fields.”

“The appointed Directors are all experts with extensive knowledge in their assigned duties.”

“We are confident that they will make significant contributions to our guided efforts to offer responsible leadership to the people of our dear state and coordinate the activities of the campaign which, at this time, is focused on helping the government in the fight against the scourge of the coronavirus disease and provide relief to the poor and vulnerable who are often the worst hit in times of economic disruption and social upheavals.”

“All the appointed Directors have resumed duty, and have expressed delight to serve. The entire campaign team is rejuvenated by the appointments,” the statement concluded.

Source: https://www.johnmayaki.com/pastor-ize-iyamu-announces-major-appointments-into-his-campaign-organization/

Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu, the frontline aspirant of the All Progressives Congress in Edo state, has urged the state government to immediately set up a food bank in strategic points across the state to provide food materials to the poor and rural dwellers to ease the expected adverse effect the restrictions implemented in the state will have on their socio-economic wellbeing.

He made this call at a press briefing today in Benin city where he also announced that his campaign organization has produced more sanitizers and informational materials on the coronavirus disease for a fresh round of distribution across the state, with focus on journalists, health workers, bus drivers and other providers of essential services exempt from the restrictions and allowed to operate skeletally.

“In a bid to escalate our ongoing efforts to curtail the spread of the virus here at home, we have produced more hand sanitizers and sensitization handbills for distribution to our people. Specifically, we will be donating these sanitizers across the state and we shall also focus on journalists, bus drivers, health workers and other providers of essential services who, despite the movement restriction, may be required to remain mobile and operative,” Pastor Ize Iyamu said.

“However, by reason of having the primary responsibility to protect lives and properties, and the resources of state at its disposal, we appeal to the government of Edo state to immediately begin the process of setting up a food bank to attend to the needy during these difficult times to cushion the effect that the restrictions, especially in trade, is expected to have on them.”

“With this step, we believe that a breakdown of law and order and possible violence in a scuffle for limited resources – especially food – in the face of mass hunger will be averted.”

According to Pastor Ize Iyamu, his wife, Prof. Idia Ize Iyamu, alongside her friends and family, will also make provision of food to the disabled in Edo state to cushion the effect the disruption of the local economy will have on them and to ensure their survival.

The former Secretary to the State Government advised the citizens of the state to protect selves and communities from the virus through adherence to common-sense precautions such as the washing of hands regularly, the practice of social distancing, remaining indoors, and prompt alert of local health authorities if sick or symptomatic.

He said: “My fellow Edos, as we pray for God’s mercy upon our state and country, and patiently await the recovery of those infected, let us be magnanimous enough to share what we have with those who have nothing during this period of compulsory lockdown.”


source:
https://abujaobserver.com/2020/04/01/covid19-set-up-a-food-bank-and-cater-to-the-poor-pastor-ize-iyamu-urges-edo-state-government/

Wife of Edo APC’s frontline aspirant, Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu, Professor Idia Ize Iyamu, the Consultant Orthodontist at the University of Benin Teaching hospital (UBTH), today distributed food items, relief packages and hand sanitizers to the disabled in Edo state.


During her visit to Salvation Army Rehabilitation Centre located at First East Circular road in Benin City, Dr. Idia Ize-Iyamu said the purpose of the visit is to help cushion the effects of the planned restrictions of movement which might affect them (disabled).


Prof. Idia Ize Iyamu said she decided to collaborate with her family and friends to provide for the vulnerable and needy in Edo state.

"We just want you show to you all that you are loved and we have you all in mind. The most important thing in a lockdown is food, we have given our widows might and we encourage others to do same for our people.

We pray God almighty will see us through these trying times. However, this contribution we have commenced in Edo south will also take place in both Edo Central and North respectively", she added.

Responding on behalf of the rehabilitation center, Mr. Abel Dome, thanked the donors Pastor and Dr. Ize-Iyamu for the kind gesture, stated that while the land is been ravaged by the deadly Coronavirus, they decided to show them love even at this very critical time.

Also speaking, the Superintendent of the Center, Major Major Chukwunwem Bramwell said Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu has always been a great partner with the center as he has organized several social services including the free eye medical outreach and so allowing us gain access to quality dental care at your dental hospital.


#EdoMustMoveForward


https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2246017025693870&id=1596027554026157

1. Fellow Nigerians,

2. From the first signs that Coronavirus, or COVID-19 was turning into an epidemic and was officially declared a world-wide emergency, the Federal Government started planning preventive, containment and curative measures in the event the disease hits Nigeria.

3. The whole instruments of government are now mobilized to confront what has now become both a health emergency and an economic crisis.

4. Nigeria, unfortunately, confirmed its first case on 27th February 2020. Since then, we have seen the number of confirmed cases rise slowly.

5. By the morning of March 29th, 2020, the total confirmed cases within Nigeria had risen to ninety-seven.

6. Regrettably, we also had our first fatality, a former employee of PPMC, who died on 23rd March 2020. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family in this very difficult time. We also pray for quick recovery for those infected and undergoing treatment.

7. As of today, COVID-19 has no cure. Scientists around the world are working very hard to develop a vaccine.

8. We are in touch with these institutions as they work towards a solution that will be certified by international and local medical authorities within the shortest possible time.

9. For now, the best and most efficient way to avoid getting infected is through regular hygienic and sanitary practices as well as social distancing.

10. As individuals, we remain the greatest weapon to fight this pandemic. By washing our hands regularly with clean water and soap, disinfecting frequently used surfaces and areas, coughing into a tissue or elbow and strictly adhering to infection prevention control measures in health facilities, we can contain this virus.

11. Since the outbreak was reported in China, our Government has been monitoring the situation closely and studying the various responses adopted by other countries.

12. Indeed, the Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) was one of ten global health leaders invited by the World Health Organisation to visit China and understudy their response approach. I am personally very proud of Dr Ihekweazu for doing this on behalf of all Nigerians.


13. Since his return, the NCDC has been implementing numerous strategies and programs in Nigeria to ensure that the adverse impact of this virus on our country is minimized. We ask all Nigerians to support the work the Federal Ministry of Health and NCDC are doing, led by the Presidential Task Force.

14. Although we have adopted strategies used globally, our implementation programs have been tailored to reflect our local realities.

15. In Nigeria, we are taking a two step approach.

16. First, to protect the lives of our fellow Nigerians and residents living here and second, to preserve the livelihoods of workers and business owners to ensure their families get through this very difficult time in dignity and with hope and peace of mind.

17. To date, we have introduced healthcare measures, border security, fiscal and monetary policies in our response. We shall continue to do so as the situation unfolds.

18. Some of these measures will surely cause major inconveniences to many citizens. But these are sacrifices we should all be willing and ready to make for the greater good of our country.

19. In Nigeria’s fight against COVID-19, there is no such thing as an overreaction or an under reaction. It is all about the right reaction by the right agencies and trained experts.

20. Accordingly, as a Government, we will continue to rely on guidance of our medical professionals and experts at the Ministry of Health, NCDC and other relevant agencies through this difficult time.

21. I therefore urge all citizens to adhere to their guidelines as they are released from time to time.

22. As we are all aware, Lagos and Abuja have the majority of confirmed cases in Nigeria. Our focus therefore remains to urgently and drastically contain these cases, and to support other states and regions in the best way we can.

23. This is why we provided an initial intervention of fifteen billion Naira (N15b) to support the national response as we fight to contain and control the spread.

24. We also created a Presidential Task Force (PTF) to develop a workable National Response Strategy that is being reviewed on a daily basis as the requirements change. This strategy takes international best practices but adopts them to suit our unique local circumstances.

25. Our goal is to ensure all States have the right support and manpower to respond immediately.

26. So far, in Lagos and Abuja, we have recruited hundreds of adhoc staff to man our call centers and support our tracing and testing efforts.



27. I also requested, through the Nigeria Governors Forum, for all State Governments to nominate Doctors and Nurses who will be trained by the NCDC and Lagos State Government on tactical and operational response to the virus in case it spreads to other states.

28. This training will also include medical representatives from our armed forces, paramilitary and security and intelligence agencies.

29. As a nation, our response must be guided, systematic and professional. There is a need for consistency across the nation. All inconsistencies in policy guidelines between Federal and State agencies will be eliminated.

30. As I mentioned earlier, as at this morning we had ninety-seven confirmed cases. Majority of these are in Lagos and Abuja. All the confirmed cases are getting the necessary medical care.

31. Our agencies are currently working hard to identify cases and people these patients have been in contact with.

32. The few confirmed cases outside Lagos and Abuja are linked to persons who have travelled from these centres.

33. We are therefore working to ensure such inter state and intercity movements are restricted to prevent further spread.




34. Based on the advice of the Federal Ministry of Health and the NCDC, I am directing the cessation of all movements in Lagos and the FCT for an initial period of 14 days with effect from 11pm on Monday, 30th March 2020. This restriction will also apply to Ogun State due to its close proximity to Lagos and the high traffic between the two States.

35. All citizens in these areas are to stay in their homes. Travel to or from other states should be postponed. All businesses and offices within these locations should be fully closed during this period.

36. The Governors of Lagos and Ogun States as well as the Minister of the FCT have been notified. Furthermore, heads of security and intelligence agencies have also been briefed.

37. We will use this containment period to identify, trace and isolate all individuals that have come into contact with confirmed cases. We will ensure the treatment of confirmed cases while restricting further spread to other States.

38. This order does not apply to hospitals and all related medical establishments as well as organizations in health care related manufacturing and distribution.

39. Furthermore, commercial establishments such as;
a. food processing, distribution and retail companies;
b. petroleum distribution and retail entities,
c. power generation, transmission and distribution companies; and
d. private security companies are also exempted.

40. Although these establishments are exempted, access will be restricted and monitored.

41. Workers in telecommunication companies, broadcasters, print and electronic media staff who can prove they are unable to work from home are also exempted.

42. All seaports in Lagos shall remain operational in accordance with the guidelines I issued earlier. Vehicles and drivers conveying essential cargoes from these Ports to other parts of the country will be screened thoroughly before departure by the Ports Health Authority.

43. Furthermore, all vehicles conveying food and other essential humanitarian items into these locations from other parts of the country will also be screened thoroughly before they are allowed to enter these restricted areas.

44. Accordingly, the Hon. Minister of Health is hereby directed to redeploy all Port Health Authority employees previously stationed in the Lagos and Abuja Airports to key roads that serve as entry and exit points to these restricted zones.

45. Movements of all passenger aircraft, both commercial and private jets, are hereby suspended. Special permits will be issued on a needs basis.

46. We are fully aware that such measures will cause much hardship and inconvenience to many citizens. But this is a matter of life and death, if we look at the dreadful daily toll of deaths in Italy, France and Spain.

47. However, we must all see this as our national and patriotic duty to control and contain the spread of this virus. I will therefore ask all of us affected by this order to put aside our personal comfort to safeguard ourselves and fellow human beings. This common enemy can only be controlled if we all come together and obey scientific and medical advice.

48. As we remain ready to enforce these measures, we should see this as our individual contribution in the war against COVID-19. Many other countries have taken far stricter measures in a bid to control the spread of the virus with positive results.

49. For residents of satellite and commuter towns and communities around Lagos and Abuja whose livelihoods will surely be affected by some of these restrictive measures, we shall deploy relief materials to ease their pains in the coming weeks.

50. Furthermore, although schools are closed, I have instructed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development to work with State Governments in developing a strategy on how to sustain the school feeding program during this period without compromising our social distancing policies. The Minister will be contacting the affected States and agree on detailed next steps.


51. Furthermore, I have directed that a three month repayment moratorium for all TraderMoni, MarketMoni and FarmerMoni loans be implemented with immediate effect.


52. I have also directed that a similar moratorium be given to all Federal Government funded loans issued by the Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture and the Nigeria Export Import Bank.

53. For on-lending facilities using capital from international and multilateral development partners, I have directed our development financial institutions to engage these development partners and negotiate concessions to ease the pains of the borrowers.

54. For the most vulnerable in our society, I have directed that the conditional cash transfers for the next two months be paid immediately. Our Internally displaced persons will also receive two months of food rations in the coming weeks.

55. We also call on all Nigerians to take personal responsibility to support those who are vulnerable within their communities, helping them with whatever they may need.

56. As we all pray for the best possible outcome, we shall continue planning for all eventualities.


57. This is why I directed that all Federal Government Stadia, Pilgrims camps and other facilities be converted to isolation centers and makeshift hospitals.

58. My fellow Nigerians, as a Government, we will avail all necessary resources to support the response and recovery. We remain committed to do whatever it takes to confront COVID-19 in our country.

59. We are very grateful to see the emerging support of the private sector and individuals to the response as well as our development partners.

60. At this point, I will ask that all contributions and donations be coordinated and centralized to ensure efficient and impactful spending. The Presidential Task Force remains the central coordinating body on the COVID-19 response.

61. I want to assure you all that Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies with a role to play in the outbreak response are working hard to bring this virus under control.

62. Every nation in the world is challenged at this time. But we have seen countries where citizens have come together to reduce the spread of the virus.

63. I will therefore implore you again to strictly comply with the guidelines issued and also do your bit to support Government and the most vulnerable in your communities.


64. I will take this opportunity to thank all our public health workforce, health care workers, port health authorities and other essential staff on the frontlines of the response for their dedication and commitment. You are true heroes.

65. I thank you all for listening. May God continue to bless and protect us all.


President Muhammadu Buhari
29th March 2020.

The frontline aspirant of the All Progressives Congress in Edo State, Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu, has eulogized Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, in celebration of his 68th birthday today.

In a personally signed message, Pastor Ize Iyamu dubbed Bola Tinubu a ‘progressive reformer’ with a “vast political structure carefully built on an ideology that, at the core, holds that the government exists to create conditions that allow the many to lead meaningful lives and fulfill potential.”

He highlighted his years of working with the former governor of Lagos and extolled his forbearance, organizational prowess and rare ability to handle setbacks without loss of motivation or a feeling of bitterness.

According to Pastor Ize-Iyamu, “Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the former governor of Lagos, is 68 years old today. The leader of men and political icon of modern Nigeria politics has a lot to be grateful for, and proud of, in his over six decades of existence – a no mean feat considering the average life span and expectancy,” the message began.

“There is nothing to be written about Asiwaju that has not already been said by spectators and admirers across the globe. His heroics and personal sacrifice when Nigeria dueled against powerful forces that tried to take away our democracy and free choice; his exemplary work as the builder of modern Lagos and the transformation of the state into the shining city atop a hill; his vast political structure carefully built on an ideology that, at the core, holds that the government exists to create the conditions that allow the many to lead meaningful lives and fulfill potential are all facts attested to by a global audience.”

“As his name implies, Asiwaju has always led the way, beat the rough path, and paved an easy route for others to emerge. Working with him in the days of Action Congress [AC], and Action Congress of Nigeria [ACN], one of the parties that mutated into the All Progressives Congress, I watched with awe and admiration how he efficiently organized, handled defeat and setbacks without losing motivation, and dealt with tricky situations without giving vents to feelings of anger and bitterness. All of these made me a better leader and politician.”

“Asiwaju, you have sowed your seed in the morning and applied your talent to all that is good and fair, may your harvest never end and may the Lord continue to bless the work of your hands and grant your wishes. Happy Birthday!”

Have you ever thought of this?

The Corona Virus traveled entire world from Wuhan crashing the European and American Economy but it did not reached Beijing and Shanghai in China.

Is China hiding something?

Is this prearranged?

This afternoon, the Edo State government confirmed that Rt. Hon. Frank Okiye, has tested positive to the Coronavirus and as such has become the index case of COVID-19 in Edo state.

In his statement to journalists in government house, Benin City, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Mr Philip Shuaibu added that Governor Godwin Obaseki has also gone on self-isolation.

Indeed, these are difficult times. My thoughts and prayers are with His Excellency, Governor Godwin Obaseki, Rt. Hon. Frank Okiye and the good people of Edo state.

In coming to terms with the existing reality, it has become expedient that every citizen be on the lookout for signs and symptoms of this viral infection such as high temperature, a new continuous cough and breathing difficulties.

Let us take steps to get tested, as early detection remains the surest route to successful treatment and survival.

Government has designated the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), the Specialist Hospital, Benin and the Virology Research and Testing Centre in Irrua Specialist Hospital (ISTH) as centres for test.

As we pray fervently for the recovery of Rt. Hon. Frank Okiye and with the hope that Mr. Governor’s test result comes negative, let us also pray for the continued safety of our healthcare personnel who have been working tirelessly in preparation to mitigating this deadly scourge that is now before us.

Together, we can bring an end to this ugly pandemic. With common sense precautions, protect yourselves and your community from the virus. Wash your hands regularly, stay at home when sick and listen to local health authorities. Let us be awake to the choices we make as to how we live now.

We shall overcome.
May the good Lord bless Edo State and keep His people safe.



#EdoMustMoveForward

Pst. Dr. Osagie Ize-Iyamu Esq.

It is rather heartbreaking that Edo state Governor Godwin Obaseki has ceased to recognize the fact that there is a pandemic Coronavirus disease which the world seriously is currently battling with.

It was discovered very sadly and regretfully that the Governor who is supposed to be monitoring closely that his aides do not go contrary to federal government laid down precautions to curtail the pandemic disease, he has even sent one of his lousy and noisily boisterous aids out to the United kingdom, a country that has become notoriously redolent with the corona virus, on a vicious propaganda campaign as if his second term ambition will be realized for him by nigerians in the diaspora.

And guess who OBASEKI has chosen to spirit out of Nigeria to United Kingdom just for propaganda at the expense of Edo states resources? He is the noisy and anti Benin ADAZE EMWANTA of course.

Adaze Emwanta, a Senior special assistant to the Governor who was used by Obaseki to speak ill of the National Chairman, Comr Adams Oshiomhole on National TV, seems to be getting his rewards for coming against the latter. Emwanta who is presently frolicking and cavorting in London having the best time of his life courtesy of Edo state governments resources and hard earned tax payers money, is seen posing on pictures on a tour to London and adding weight on the alters of our collective edo state finances.

Even as we understand that he is been financially rewarded for his constant porous and senseless rantings against the National Chairman, it still does not stop the need to show interest in this state sponsored trip of his out of the country as it concerns the finances of the people of Edo state.

It is a known fact that London fall under the places under travel ban by the federal government of Nigeria. How then will a reasonable person travel to such place to parade himself around when the people living there are self isolating themselves as a result of the COVID-19 disease?

Is this not rather a poor judgement on the part of OBASEKI and ADAZE EMWANTA?Are they not heartlessly exposing edo state citizens to the risk of the dreaded corona virus decease upon the return of ADAZE EMWANTA to Benin?

This is to humbly ask that Emwanta on his return to Nigeria anytime from now should be adequately quarantined by the federal government for rigorous investigations lest he unleashes the COVID-19 disease on our hapless edo state citizens. We fear because he has regularly posted in the social media pictures and videos of his London gallivanting spree.The good people of Edo state cannot risk suffering from this deadly virus because of the ill thought out decision on the part of OBASEKI to spirit out ADAZE EMWANTA to London at this ominous times.

God forbid we experience COVID-19 in Edo state but if it ever happens, now we know the history. OBASEKI and ADAZE EMWANTA are to be held responsible. God forbid.

By Chris Osa Uhunmwangho

1. December 29 2016- Obaseki ordered two APC leaders Osakpomwan Eriyo & Sunday Osagbona to be remanded in Oko prison for alleged attempted murder on the life of Chief Osaro Idah.

2. October 6, 2018- Obaseki imposed his preferred candidates for National/House of Assembly elections on the party in several LGs of Edo state.

3. February 23, 2019- Obaseki lost his ward, LG, fed constituencies & senatorial district in the Presidential/National Assembly elections. He was playing golf on election day.

4. March 18, 2019- Obaseki purportedly suspended Gen. Charles Ariabhere from APC.

5. March 21, 2019- Obaseki threatened the life of Hon. Chris Okaeben & vowed he won't be inaugurated into Edo State House of Assembly.

6. June 5, 2019- Obaseki blackmailed & accused Edo APC leaders of fighting him for access to the state treasury to share Edo money.

7. June 17, 2019- Obaseki refused to inaugurate 14 APC members elect into the Edo State House of Assembly. He accused Oshiomhole of impeachment plans against him.

8. June 17, 2019- 14 Edo House of Assembly members elect were physically attacked at the Golden Tulip Hotel by thugs loyal to Obaseki under the supervision of the Nigeria Police.

9. July 3, 2019- Obaseki sacked 8 Commissioners & Special Advisers.

10. July 4, 2019- Obaseki ordered the illegal suspension of Hon. Chris Okaeben from the APC by his Oredo LG party chapter.

11. July 23, 2019- Obaseki fought against the ministerial nomination of Hon. Clem Agba by President Buhari.

12. August 29, 2019- Obaseki at the South-South governors forum & in a letter to President Buhari through the APC Ovia North East LG chapter, rejected the nomination of Dr. Pius Odubu & Chief Victor Ekhator as Chairman & member board of NDDC respectively.

13. September 3, 2019- Obaseki through his lawyer, Andrew Adaze Emwanta filed a case in an FCT High Court Abuja against the nomination of a fellow Edo man, Dr. Pius Odubu as Chairman NDDC. He asked the court to give the position to Delta State.

14. September 27, 2019- Obaseki illegally sacked Alhaji Aremiyau Momoh from office as Chairman Etsako East LG.

15. October 5, 2019- Thugs loyal to Obaseki attacked the Benin GRA residence of Adams Oshiomhole at night.

16. October 8, 2019- Obaseki illegally removed from office Hon. Patrick Aguinede as Chairman Esan West LG. This was after he had previously removed 3 others from office namely; Alhaji Yakson Musa, Alhaji Aremiyau Momoh & Eghe Ogbemudia from Etsako West, Etsako East & Egor LG respectively.

17. October 9, 2019- Obaseki proscribed the Edo People's Movement (EPM) at the Edo APC state party secretariat & ordered his loyalists to deal with anyone & everyone holding EPM meetings.

18. October 11, 2019- Obaseki ordered the arrest of Hon. Osarobo Idahosa, the APC leader in Ikpoba okha and about three police hilux vehicles were stationed outside his house for days.

19. October 18, 2019- Obaseki ordered the purported suspension of Lawrence Okah as Edo State APC Secretary.

20. October 27, 2019- Thugs loyal to Obaseki attacked Comrade Carlis Imolore & other APC leaders/members in Owan East LG.

21. November 2, 2019- Thugs loyal to Obaseki & led by his deputy, Philip Shaibu who rode on a bike booed Oshiomhole at Edo University Iyamoh. Obaseki further blamed the attack of Oshiomhole's guests, the Oba of Lagos & others on Oshiomhole just to embarrass him.

22. November 14, 2019- Obaseki used one Steven Oshawo & 8 others (out of 26 exco members) to carry out an illegal suspension of Adams Oshiomhole in his ward 10 of Etsako West LG.

23. November 21, 2019- Obaseki sponsored a protest at the APC national party secretariat led by his aide, Osagbovo Iyoha for the resignation/removal of Oshiomhole as APC national party chairman.

24. November 22, 2019- Obaseki lobbied APC NEC members for the attempted removal of Adams Oshiomhole as APC national party chairman.

25. November 22, 2019- Obaseki sealed up the hotel business property of Comrade Osakpomwan Eriyo. He went further & seized his caterpillars, excavators & other working equipment at his sand excavation business site (pit).

26. December 3, 2019- Obaseki ordered Frank Okiye to illegally declare vacant the seats of 14 APC House of Assembly members elect. And asked INEC for by-elections.

27. December 12, 2019- Oshiomhole's convoy & NWC members attacked in Benin by thugs loyal to Obaseki. They caused mayhem, burnt vehicles, set bonfire on airport road & harassed innocent citizens.

28. December 13, 2019- Obaseki placed a ban on all political rallies & gatherings in both public & private properties with a threat to revoke the C of O's of such properties.

29. December 13, 2019- Obaseki ordered men of the Nigeria Police to seal up Garrick Memorial School to prevent the welcome rally of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu back to the APC.

30. December 22, 2019- Obaseki accused Edo APC leaders to be responsible for the reoccurring fire incidents in several markets in Benin metropolis.

31. December 22, 2019- In an APC meeting at Oredo, Obaseki accused Oshiomhole of godfatherism, breathing down his neck to be in full control of his govt. He had previously accused Oshiomhole of plans to have him (Obazeki) impeached as governor.

32. December 23, 2019- Thugs loyal to Obaseki attacked Prof. Julius Ihonvbere's constituency office & empowerment program in Owan West LG.

33. December 23, 2019- Obaseki celebrated when the tenured appointment of Hon. Samson Osagie elapsed with no further renewal by President Buhari as Executive Director marketing & business development, Nigeria Communication Satellite LTD.

34. January 25, 2020- The venue of APC Edo north rally in Auchi burnt down. Chairs, tables, canopies other equipment & materials destroyed.

35. January 29, 2020- Obaseki publicly on TV threatened to deal with Adams Oshiomhole.

36. January 29, 2020- Obaseki set up a panel to probe Oshiomhole over the construction of the Benin Specialist Hospital.

37. January 30, 2020- Assassinated attempt was carried out on the life of Hon. Henry Idahagbon with 77 bullet holes on his office floor & windows.

38. February 1, 2020- Obaseki ordered the Police to seal up 'Okaigiesan Hall', the initial venue of the Edo central APC rally.

39. February 1, 2020- The Benin residence of Chief Francis Inegbeneki (Uzoya) bombed with IED.

40. February 3, 2020- Comrade Osakpomwan Eriyo's residence at Siloko road bombed.

41. February 3, 2020- Obaseki through his deputy, Philip Shaibu asked the IG of Police & Director of DSS to arrest Adams Oshiomhole.

42. February 5, 2020- Obaseki ordered the demolition of the hotel of Comrade Tony Kabaka Adun at Ugbor Benin City.

43. February 7, 2020- Obaseki ordered the seal up of Comrade Osakpomwan Eriyo's hotel for the second time.

44. February 10, 2020- Lawrence Okah's Benin residence bombed after an assassination attempt on his life previously at the same residence.

45. February 15, 2020- Obaseki celebrates the APC loss of Bayelsa State to the PDP at the Supreme Court.

46. February 22, 2020- Thugs loyal to Obaseki were mobilised to the Benin Airport to prevent Oshiomhole from coming to Benin without the approval of Governor Obaseki.

47. February 22, 2020- Obaseki blocked both the street entrance & exit to the Benin private residence of Oshiomhole with Edo State waste management garbage trucks. This was to prevent Oshiomhole from accessing his house or receiving visitors.

48. February 29, 2020- Obaseki revoked the C of O on the properties of Dr. Odubu, Prof. Ihonvbere, Chief Elamah & other APC leaders.

49. March 5, 2020- Obaseki celebrated the short lived suspension of Oshiomhole as APC national Chairman by the FCT High Court.

50. March 13, 2020- Obaseki endorsed Victor Giadom (from River State) in a South-South factional meeting in Abuja to be APC national Chairman to replace Adams Oshiomhole (from Edo State).

We can not forget in a hurry the atrocities of Godwin 'Agho' Obaseki in Edo State. "Affliction shall not rise up the second time"- Nahum 1:9. No second term. Obaseki Must Go! Torkpa!

By Austin Enoghase.

The condition of magistrate courts situated at Evboriaria in Benin City can be likened to pigs' pen owing to the dirtiness and sorry state of the court rooms and environment where criminal and civil cases are examined.

Side by side with the magistrate courts is the Edo state production centre that house entrepreneurs and artisans. The production centre was renovated by the state government and can be counted as one the success stories of the present administration.

One is forced to wonder how a magistrate can sit in such an untidy environment to look at cases brought before him and expect to get fair judgement thereof. It was reported that when it rains, the court rooms are flooded with water thereby preventing any form of sitting by the court. A magistrate court in Iguobazuwa is worse off in comparison to the ones in Benin City.

Edo state government should as a matter of urgency pay attention to the magistrate courts and the welfare of magistrates as well, as it was also observed that some of the magistrates use public transport to office which shouldn't be looking at the nature of the work they do, their security and privacy should be of priority.

Leftist Osazee Edigin
Public Relations Officer
Edo Civil Society Organisations

Rivers State Government closes schools

•directs religious organisations to restrict their activities

The Rivers State Government has closed all schools in the state and directed all religious organisations to restrict their activities as a result of the global coronavirus pandemic.

In a statewide broadcast on Friday, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike said that the action was taken in the interest of Rivers State.

The closure affects public and private Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Institutions.

He said: "Based on the above precautionary measures, the State can be described to be at an alert state. To further strengthen our resolve to protect our citizens, the State Government has taken the following decisions:

"1. All Schools in the State are to be closed down with effect from Monday, March 23, 2020.

2. All Religious Organisations are to restrict their activities."

Governor Wike said that his administration took the decision with a deep sense of responsibility.

He said: "As you are aware, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has described coronavirus as a global pandemic. This development calls for collective action by all well-meaning citizens.

"As a responsive government, even though we have not had a confirmed case of coronavirus, we did not rest on our oars as we set-up a Five-man Inter-ministerial committee to carry out an aggressive public enlightenment that will protect all those living and doing business in the State from the disease.

"This decision was taken because we understand that we are the headquarters of the Hydrocarbon Industry and also a major commercial hub in the country that attracts people from all walks of life."

The Rivers State Governor noted that with actions taken, the State is alert to address any situation.

"The committee had since its inauguration carried out Stakeholder Engagement with Community Development Committees, Religious Groups, Principals and Head teachers of schools, Traders Association, National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Military, Paramilitary, Police, International Oil Companies and The Association of Local Government Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGON).

"In addition to this, radio and television jingles, flyers and billboards have been fully utilised by the committee to pass the prevention message to all the nooks and crannies of the State."

The Governor added: "The State Ministry of Health has also been empowered to set up intervention resources:

"i. 158 Surveillance and Ad-hoc personnel have been trained.

"ii. One Treatment Centre, Holding Centers in the Two Teaching Hospitals and all General Hospitals in the State are fully functional.

"iii. All Health Workers, both private and public have been trained and briefed on Infection Control Measures and appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE),Hand Sanitizers have been procured, Infrared thermometers have been procured and Stockpiling of other commodities and equipment and we have redoubled surveillance at our Airports, Seaports, Waterways and Land routes."

Governor Wike pleaded for the understanding of Rivers people.

He said: "My dear good people of Rivers State, as painful as these decisions may seem, it is a sacrifice we must make to protect ourselves in the face of recent developments.

"Let me assure all those resident in the State, that the State Government under my leadership is ready and willing to protect their lives at all times.

"May I therefore call for the understanding and collective support of all and sundry to keep our State safe from coronavirus.
Together, we shall win with God on our side."

Simeon Nwakaudu,
Special Assistant to the Rivers State Governor, Electronic Media.
20th March, 2020.

clarocuzioo:


Are you still dreaming? Keep dreaming Joseph the dreamer. Oshiomhole was begging for his job to be retained even if Obaseki wants to go for third term.

Oshiomhole has no choice than to support Obaseki which he agreed on thebpracebdeal brokered by Mr. President.

Events unfolding in coming weeks will show that Obaseki really held him by the balls, now he understands the meaning of power.

That's nonsense that happened to Ambode can only happen in Lagos.

How will Oshiomhole support Obaseki?

Everyone knows Obaseki's educational qualification is questionable and PDP will use that to their advantage.

For me, Obaseki is the worse Governor since the beginning of this Republic.

No bursary,

no student's incentives.

He is busy fighting his political party men in the name of no Godfatherism.

Godwin Obaseki is not funding the higher institutions in Edo state.

He has succeeded in bringing down the ones (Institutions) he met.

Most of the roads constructed under him are already failing as a result of poor handling.

Godwin Obaseki promised Edo people Gelegele Seaport.

He promised Edo people 200,000 jobs.

Unfortunately,

the man known for signing MOUs is yet to meet any of his electioneering promises.

He could not even manage his party men.

No teachers in Edo State Owned Colleges.

He has failed the people of Edo state.

When I read in the media that Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu made statements in solidarity with embattled APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, I said to myself "That's a true Patriot!"

Why did I say that?

Ize-Iyamu was the major force behind Adams Oshiomhole becoming a governor in Edo State, which was the source of his rise to National Chairman of the APC.

Despite that, Adams Oshiomhole is the major reason why Ize-Iyamu left the APC to sojourn in the PDP and literarily won the 2016 election which was allegedly rigged in favour of Obaseki. Simply out, Adams Oshiomhole is the reason why Ize-Iyamu is not yet the governor of Edo State.

Looking at the above, it is clear that Ize-Iyamu has a 'good' reason to keep malice or grudge against Adams Oshiomhole especially during this his trying time, like Obaseki, who has no valid reason to kick or demur, is currently doing against his benefactor now.

Rather than sit on the fence and watch, and wait, Ize-Iyamu, as a true fearless political general, decided to stick out his neck once again in defence of An Edo Man. This is one area where Ize-Iyamu is markedly different from Obaseki. For Obaseki, National Chairman should elude Edo, NDDC Chairman should elude Edo even governorship may elude Edo if the candidate has a quarrel with him personally. For Ize-Iyamu, it's different, it's Edo First.

Recall in 2007, Ize-Iyamu broke rank with Anenih and the powers that be on principle. He said "Edo North must produce the next governor". At that time, Edo South (his base) and Edo Central had produced governors. For that principled ground, when it was resisted, Ize-Iyamu left the ruling PDP to form what today is the APC, and that was the Genesis and Exodus of how Adams Oshiomhole became Governor of Edo State.

Obaseki really needs to take lessons in patriotism from Ize-Iyamu and stop his habitual resistance to Edo people's political appointments.

My message to Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu is that he should continue in his patriotic works and take note that the good people of Edo State are watching every moves of everyone and at the right time, they would reward every politician according to their works.

Hope you know Obaseki has FAKE WAEC result. APC cannot make him their candidate.

After threatening to deal with Oshiomhole,
After removing Samson osagie from NICOMSAT,
After removing Odubu from NDDC chairman,
After accusing Oshiomhole of godfatherism,
after the demolition of a hotel belonging to kabaka,
After throwing grenades on members' houses,
After beating up party faithfuls,
After banning Oshiomhole from coming home,
After refusing to inaugurate house of assembly and sent your thugs to beat them up,
After accusing your party members of wanting you to share state money,
After spending almost 1billion to remove Oshiomhole from national chairman,
After sacking Oshiomhole's loyalists,
After locking up members businesses
And after all the dramas?

And now he wants to reconcile

If you are Oshiomhole and his loyalists, will you forgive obaseki?

Me: obaseki went too far, reconciliation is already too late.

Starting on Tuesday March 17, 2020, KEKE NAPEP and Okada riders in Edo State shall be paying ten thousand Naira to tax office as registration to work in Edo State, by an order of Obaseki administration.

This new fee is different from the daily taxes that they already paying to the Edo State government.

This, it was gathered from sources, is in a bid to increase revenue generation for his administration apparently to pay off huge debts it has accumulated within three years with the help of his rubber stamp controversial House of Assembly.

The new extra ten thousand Naira tax is to commence under the guise of a so-called "registration and licensing of motorcycle and tricycle riders"

The tax increase will be effected across the 18 Local Government Areas (LGA) of the state. No part of Edo State will be exempt.

The Director of Transport, Ministry of Infrastructure, Engr. George Aghahowa, in a chat with journalists in Benin City recently, said the new scheme for commercial riders in the state has a benefit of up to N250, 000 Life Insurance, in case of death of any of the riders.

However, many riders that spoke to Okpodu Reporters on condition of anonymity, in Benin City, Uromi and Auchi, refused to accept that that isn't a bait to hoodwink Edo people against rising up in unison to challenge the new tax which looks like double taxation. Some of the riders in Auchi have vowed to resist the "trick to overtax riders" as they described it.

Aghahowa said the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS), in collaboration with other public and private bodies, will be in charge of the new tax scheme.

Many riders argue that if the government really wanted to ensure security and safety but the new measure, and not tax increase or double taxation as some claim, "but why would the Tax Office be the authority in charge?"

With the new scheme, riders would need to pay heavily to get a Permit without which they cannot ride anywhere in Edo State.

According to Aghahowa, the scheme is a Public Private Partnership (PPP) meaning the government will contract parts of the operation to individuals in which case he would be going back to the days of empowering his cronies who would eventually celebrate one billion naira also.

The director noted that the riders permit comes with some benefits for the riders, adding, “They include the customised reflective jacket with a coded number and the date it was issued crested on it. The code comes with the personal information of the rider, which is required with the payment of the necessary fee of N10,000 that will be imputed into the system and will in turn generate a security number that will be tied to your personal information.


source: https://okpodureporters.com/obaseki-okada-keke/

It's good that the family attack of the Ogiemwonyi Family was started by Obaseki and his rodents, especially one cockroach called Crusoe, spokesman for Obaseki...

Now Edo people would be justified in asking Obaseki many pertinent private family questions too, among which are;

1. Who is this powerful young non-Edo man in Govt House called TJ? Who is he to Godwin Obaseki, and what kind of intimate or abominable relationship is really going on between them?

2. Can Obaseki show Edo people his marriage certificate so that we could check the date of marriage and maybe ask him why he married officially very close to 2016?

3. Why does Obaseki not have a child if he's truly married to a woman - when neither he nor the woman is infertile?

4. Why was Godwin Obaseki banished to Ubiaja in his childhood, instead of growing up with his parents who were living in Benin, alive, hail and healthy? Wasn't it connected to his unnatural lifestyle, that made his father disown him for about 30 yrs? Could this be the reason why Godwin Obaseki is perpetually a sad man, hating even his own kit and kin and resisting their every political appointments?

5. Is Obaseki truly a graduate of University of Ibadan with three credit passes?

6. How could Obaseki keep malice with his own father for about 30 years? What manner of man is that who cannot forgive his own father and his father's kinsmen also?

7. The seventh question would be asked if Obaseki gets a ticket, and the discovery would so irritate the Edo people till he's swept off from the land for the abomination that he would be discovered to be ...

I know that our brother would forgive Obaseki as usual if he apologized but because the damaged has been done already to the entire Ogiemwonyi Family, home and abroad, we would also let out a piece of our venom and apologise later.

Signed,

Stella Ogiemwonyi
Bremen.
+49 174 3886777