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Tag: Edo State

  • Oyegun welcomes Edo Obidient Movement faction into ADC

    Oyegun welcomes Edo Obidient Movement faction into ADC

    A former governor of Edo state and national leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief John Oyegun, has expressed joy over defection of a faction of the Obedient Movement in Edo State into the party.

    Last week, a faction of the Edo State Obedient Movement led by Comrade Ikhuenbor Felix Igbinevbo collapsed into the All Progressive Congress (APC) to support reelection of President Bola Tinubu.

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

    But Chief Oyegun said the defection was a sign that the people were ready to join the struggle for a leadership change in the country.

    He said, “A new Nigeria is truly possible. A few days ago, I was in the hall when a colourful and important personality, Dele Momodu joined us.

    “Today is the first time I saw youths that were committed to the nation building. It is my first time meeting members of the Obedient Movement in this number. We are convinced that the youth of this country are ready.

    “You have decided to take up the struggle yourself by joining the ADC. I am happy. I want to say that from the day the coalition came together, I was convinced that we are on the right path. 

    “I am sure you are not happy with what is happening in Nigeria and Edo State. Remember that the chairman said that we have one target is that we have a country to save. We must start to make sure that through the ADC, we make a new Nigeria possible.

    Edo coordinator of the Obedient Movement, Asemota Idiogbe, said the ADC remained the only party that could battle the APC at the polls. 

  • Man rams SUV into police checkpoints, injures three

    Man rams SUV into police checkpoints, injures three

    The Edo State Police Command has confirmed arrest of a teenager, Nsikak Okon, 19, who rammed a N28m SUV into a police checkpoint and injured three policemen.

    It said the policemen were receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

    Spokesman for the Edo Police Command, Eno Ikoedem, in a statement, said the incident happened on December 24 at Iyekogba Estate Gate, Oredo local government area.

    Ikoedem said investigations showed the suspect was an unlicensed driver, adding that the black Mercedes-Benz GLK SUV, valued at ₦28m, was not registered despite being in use since May 2024.

    She listed items recovered from the suspect to include a substance suspected to be Canadian Loud and a Sprite bottle containing sky-blue liquid suspected to be diluted refnol.

    According to her: The Command wishes to reiterate this directive and strongly warns that there is absolutely no justifiable reason for any motorist to speed through a police checkpoint except with the intention to evade lawful checks or endanger the lives of officers on duty.

    Read Also: Okpebholo sacks Edo Line MD

    “A reckless driver drove against traffic, breached a police checkpoint barricade, made a turn and drove back at officers on duty, knocking down three police personnel, who were on lawful duty. The reckless driver eventually crashed into multiple vehicles before being restrained and arrested. The injured officers are currently receiving medical attention.

    “The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, emphasizes that any person who deliberately attacks or attempts to harm Police officers on lawful duty will not be spared, stressing that enough is enough. The Command assures the public that it remains committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety.”

  • Indigenes responsible for kidnapping in Ekpoma, says Okpebholo

    Indigenes responsible for kidnapping in Ekpoma, says Okpebholo

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has said that investigations by security agencies showed that many persons involved in criminal activities around Ekpoma were indigenes of the area.

    Residents of Ekpoma, last weekend, protested the high incidence of kidnappings in the area.

    The residents blamed herders for criminal activities in the area.

    However, Governor Okpebholo said many persons arrested in the forest by security agencies were natives of Ekpoma and environs.

    According to him, “Most of the incidents of people being kidnapped in Ekpoma are local. When soldiers and other security agencies went into the forest at night, the people caught were natives from Ekpoma. So we need to look at who our enemy really is.”

    Governor Okpebholo spoke when he received students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, and others, who were released from the Correctional Centre after their arrest in connection with the Ekpoma protest.

    Okpebholo assured them of his administration’s commitment to dialogue, reform, and the overall development of the university and the state.

    Read Also: My critics can say anything but Tinubu will win in 2027- Okpebholo

    He said he was deeply pained by the violent turn the protest took despite his commitment to the revival of AAU.

    Governor Okpebholo cautioned the students against allowing themselves to be used by criminal elements.

    He said, “Somebody said he is a student, and he protests. What are you protesting for? Don’t allow yourself to be used. Read your books so that you can be like us.”

    “The same way you are afraid of your life, is the same way I am afraid of my life. Kidnappers do not know the status of anybody, and so it’s a common problem we all have.”

    Governor Okpebholo condemned the destruction of shops and looting of properties during the protest, describing it as counterproductive.

    He asked, “Things are not moving, people are hungry, and you are burning shops and destroying properties. If it were yours, would you be happy?”

    He appealed to the students and youths to embrace peace and constructive engagement, assuring them that criminals would not be allowed to have a hiding place in Edo State.

    He said, “We have to work for Edo. Some of you may be innocent, but criminals will not have a hiding place in our state.”

  • Govt orders resumption of schools in Edo Central Monday

    Govt orders resumption of schools in Edo Central Monday

    Edo State Government has asked public and private schools in Edo Central Senatorial District to resume the Second Term 2025/2026 academic session next Monday.

    Resumption of schools in Edo Central was postponed following last week’s protest in Ekpoma, headquarters of Esan West Local Government Area.

    Several shops were looted and the Palace of the traditional ruler of Ekpoma vandalised.

    Governor Monday Okpebholo and Edo Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, relocated to Ekpoma to tackle the security situation.

    Read Also: World Bank projects Nigeria’s economy to grow 4.4% in 2026

    A total of 52 suspects were arrested and remanded, including students of the Ambrose Alli University (AUU), Ekpoma.

    Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, in a statement, directed private and public schools to resume for the Second Term of the 2025/2026 academic session on Monday, January 19, 2026.

    “Parents, guardians, and school authorities are advised to take note of this development and ensure full compliance to enable a smooth and effective commencement of academic activities.

    “The ministry appreciates the patience, cooperation, and understanding of all stakeholders as we continue to take steps aimed at improving the welfare and learning environment of our children,” he added.

  • JUST IN: Edo moves to release remanded AAU students

    JUST IN: Edo moves to release remanded AAU students

    The Edo State Government has initiated steps to secure the release of bona fide students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) who were remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre following a protest against recurring kidnappings in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area.

    The students were among 52 individuals arrested and subsequently remanded in connection with the unrest.

    Governor Monday Okpebholo dispatched the Commissioner for Education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, to oversee the process and ensure the students’ release.

    Speaking with journalists at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre, Dr Iyamu assured that genuine AAU students would regain their freedom once all required procedures were completed.

    He stated that last week’s violent protest in Ekpoma was instigated by a group known as the Comrade Association, which he described as comprising former students who seize any opportunity to foment disorder.

    Read Also: AAU students, others arraigned over protest

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

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

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

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

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

  • Ekpoma riot was sponsored from overseas, Okpebholo insists

    Ekpoma riot was sponsored from overseas, Okpebholo insists

    …says arrested AAU students culpable

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has said that sponsors of last week’s protest in Ekpoma, Esan West local government area, have been identified.

    The governor said the protest was a well-organised riot sponsored by a Nigerian resident in Russia and other locations overseas.

    He said there were strong indications that opposition elements, “possibly with foreign backing, are sponsoring the unrest in a bid to discredit the Edo State Government and create chaos.”

    The Edo Governor, who spoke in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, said it was part of a coordinated attempt to misinform the public and destabilise the state.

    Read Also: Okpebholo vows to tackle kidnappers

    The statement said security agencies have identified the masterminds, who contacted several individuals in Ekpoma and proposed sponsoring the organisation of coordinated riots across Ekpoma, Auchi, Irrua, and even the Government House, Benin City, with funding from the diaspora.

    It said those arrested were intercepted while allegedly heading to vandalise property on campus, and others were faces identified on a viral video of the incident showing various acts of arson carried out.

    According to the statement, “Most of the arrests were based on clear evidence, including a video showing acts of violence and destruction. The suspects arrested are rioters, not peaceful protesters. The government also emphasised that the incident has no connection whatsoever with students or the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).

    “There are also strong indications, the government said, that opposition elements, possibly with foreign backing, are sponsoring the unrest in a bid to discredit the Edo State Government and create chaos.

    “Residents of Ekpoma are assured that the situation is fully under control, as peace and normalcy continue to return to the town. The public is urged to ignore fake videos and unverified reports. They should remain calm and go about their lawful activities.”

  • BREAKING: Police arrest 50 Ekpoma protesters

    BREAKING: Police arrest 50 Ekpoma protesters

    Over 50 persons who participated in last Saturday’s protest in Ekpoma, Esan West local government area have been arrested.

    The suspects were arrested at various locations in Ekpoma.

    Several shops were looted and the Palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma was vandalised during the protest.

    The suspects were driven in a black maria to the Edo State where they are waiting to be arraigned.

    At tbe court premises, relatives of the victims were seen loitering around.

    As of the press time, security cordoned off the court room and refused to allow journalists into the court room.

    Edo Police spokesman, Eno Ikoedem, said the arrested suspects were involved in looting and violence act.

    Details shortly…

  • Council boss restricts Okada, tricycle over kidnapping in Edo community

    Council boss restricts Okada, tricycle over kidnapping in Edo community

    Acting Chairman of Esan West local government area, Albert Blessing Ebhodaghe, has announced restriction on the movement and operation of commercial and private motorcycles (popularly known as Okada) and tricycles (Keke).

    Ebhodaghe said the move was to strengthen public safety as well as maintaining law and order.

    The accoutrement by the Council boss followed protest that rocked Ekpoma, administrative headquarters of the council over incessant kidnapping.

    Residents of Ekpoma had set up bon fires on the Ekpoma axis of the Benin-Abuja highway.

    Motorists were stranded for several hours.

    The residents said kidnappers have resorted to be abducting people from their houses.

    They said kidnappings have become a daily occurrence in Ekpoma.

    The Council boss, in a statement, directed that all Okada and tricycle operators must cease movement by 7pm daily.

    He said security agencies operating within the locality have been formally instructed to enforce the restriction even as he vowed to sanction violators.

    On his part, Edo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Kassim Afegbua, in a statement, said matters of security required calm, coordination and constructive engagement.

    He cautioned that actions such as blocking roads and disrupting movement, in the name of protest, might be exploited by criminal elements.

    Afegbua said citizens must resist the urge to be caught in such dangerous tendencies.

    The Information Commissioner said Governor Okpebholo remained responsive to genuine complaints relating to safety. 

    He explained that the government believed that effective security solutions were best achieved through intelligence sharing, community collaboration and sustained engagement with security agencies, not through unstructured actions that undermine public order.

    According to him, “Governor Okpebholo’s security strategy is built around proactive measures, including the strengthening of the Edo Security Corps, neighbourhood watch initiatives and continuous engagement with community leaders, traditional institutions and sister states. 

    “These platforms are available for residents to channel security-related concerns, provide useful information and contribute meaningfully to keeping their communities safe.

    “It must be emphasised that uncoordinated protests around security matters can distract security agencies from ongoing operations and complicate efforts to address criminal activities. The state therefore urges residents to remain law-abiding, calm and supportive of security operatives who continue to work tirelessly to protect lives and property.”

  • Kidnapped doctor’s family seeks support to pay N100m ransom

    Kidnapped doctor’s family seeks support to pay N100m ransom

    Kidnappers of Dr. Abu Babatunde have refused to back down on the demand for N100m ransom payment to secure his release.

    Dr. Abu was kidnapped on January 2 with his younger brother, Momoh.

    Momoh was shot dead and has since been buried.

    Wife of the victim took to social media to beg for support to raise the ransom money.

    She said every small contribution could help secure the doctor’s freedom.

    “With teary eyes and a heavy heart, I appeal to the public for prayers, support, and financial assistance during this extremely painful time.

    “The N100 million ransom demand is an impossible burden for us to bear alone.

    “No amount is too small, and we plead for assistance and continued prayers,” she wrote. 

  • ‘How I moved from a displaced Nigerian to PhD student in the US’

    ‘How I moved from a displaced Nigerian to PhD student in the US’

    A former displaced Nigerian, Ishaku Amos, who sought refuge at the Internally Displaced Persons camp in Edo State, has narrated how he struggled to become a doctoral student in Chemical Engineering at the University of Illinois, Chicago, United States of America.

    Ishaku spoke to journalists on Wednesday during his visit to the Home for the Needy Foundation, Uhogua, Edo State.

    The native of Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State said he could not believe that his life could transform from that of displacement to academic excellence.

    Ishaku said the IDP camp played a decisive role in changing the course of his life.

    He said he got a scholarship for studies abroad after completing his undergraduate studies at the Edo State University, Iyamho 

    Ishaku stated that the founder of the IDP Camp in Uhogua, Pastor Solomon Folorunsho, facilitated his traveling abroad.

    Amos explained that adjusting to life in the United States would have been difficult without support from Pastor Folorunsho.

    “I had never travelled outside Nigeria before. I grew up in the North, and in the camp, so everything was new to me. Having him accompany me made the transition easier and gave me confidence.

    “It was a new culture, a new system, and a different weather. But I was prepared. I was guided on what to expect and how to adapt, so I didn’t experience culture shock. He made sure I was comfortable before returning to Nigeria.”

    “Anyone who says terrorism is not happening should listen to my story,” he said. 

    “I know what I suffered. People sometimes talk because they have not experienced it. When you have lived through killings and displacement, you can never deny the reality.”

    “The Home for the Needy Foundation changed my narrative and my understanding of life. Despite our trauma, they never gave up on us. They paid for our exams even when we failed and had to try again. They kept telling us to focus and try one more time.”

    Ishaku said his experience inspired him to give back to society and support vulnerable people, even as he appealed to the Borno State Government to support displaced indigenes.

     “They know we exist and that we are Borno indigenes, but we have been ignored for too long. We are calling on them to clear outstanding school fees and provide scholarships. We will continue to call until something is done.”