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Tag: Edo State

  • Okpebholo distributes 17 New SUVs to Edo LG chairmen

    Okpebholo distributes 17 New SUVs to Edo LG chairmen

    Gov. Monday Okpebholo has presented 17 brand-new 2025 model SUVs to local government chairmen to enhance grassroots service delivery statewide.

    Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, said Okpebholo was joined by the Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa and other top officials at the event on Saturday in Benin.

    Okpebholo emphasised that his administration would not interfere with local government funds, adding that he allowed councils to drive development at the grassroots without constraints.

    He criticised the previous administration for sidelining local governments, adding that his government recognised and empowered council chairmen with tools like the new SUVs to enable function better.

    Okpebholo expressed gratitude to God for enabling chairmen to now enjoy brand new vehicles, describing it as a sign of progress in Edo.

    He said the new development was unfolded under President Bola Tinubu, stressing that Edo would soon rival cities like Lagos and Abuja in terms of growth.

    The governor warned that the SUVs were not for personal use but strictly for public service.

    He vowed to monitor their use across the local governments.

    Read Also: Okpebholo, Idahosa, APC leaders celebrate Appeal Court victory

    He added that council funds were untouched by the state, adding that performance would be measured based on visible outcomes aligned with financial allocations.

    The Commissioner for Local Government, Lucky Eseigbe, praised Okpebholo for upholding local government autonomy and ensuring accountability and transparency in council operations.

    Eseigbe noted the positive impact of the autonomy, highlighting new infrastructure like newclassrooms, roads, and healthcare centres across the 18 local government areas.

    According to him, this is the first time in Edo’s history that brand new SUVs 2025 model were purchased for all local government chairmen.

    (NAN)

  • JUST IN: Appeal Court affirms Okpebholo’s election as Edo governor

    JUST IN: Appeal Court affirms Okpebholo’s election as Edo governor

    The Court of Appeal in Abuja has affirmed the election of Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the governor of Edo State and winner of the election held on September 21, 2024.

    In a judgment on Thursday, a three-member panel of the appellate court unanimously held that the appeal by Asue Ighodalo, who was the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the election and his party was unmeritorious and dismissed it.

    Read Also: Okpebholo considers amnesty for cultists, illegal-arms possessors

    The court held that the appellants failed to show that the election tribunal erred in its decision and proceeded to affirm the judgment of the tribunal delivered on April 2.

    Details shortly…

  • Edo gov considers amnesty for cultists, illegal arms possessors

    Edo gov considers amnesty for cultists, illegal arms possessors

    The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has opted for amnesty for cultists and illegal arms possessors in the state.

    Okpebholo, in a statement by his chief press secretary, Fred Itua, disclosed this while meeting with the leaders of Obagie, Oke-Oroma, and Amagba communities over land and insecurity concerns in Benin.

    While reinstating his administration’s resolve to develop the proposed new city around the communities, he revealed that a technical committee would soon be set up to handle the restitution of cult members and criminally-minded youths, in a bid to reduce the menace of violent crimes, including kidnapping.

    Edo governor noted that a major component of the proposed amnesty programme would include skills acquisition and empowerment programmes for the affected youths, in order to make them useful to themselves and society.

    He assured the visiting leaders of his support to bring about lasting peace in their communities, especially as the Edo government would be embarking on the development of the new city in their domain.

    Okpebholo stated that peace would be restored to all restive communities in Edo, including Obagie, Oke-oroma and Amagba.

    He assured that his administration was ready to listen to the victims of demolition by the immediate past government, while asking them to see members of the committee on land resolution with their papers.

    On the development of LOT ‘A’ in the new city plan, the governor noted that officials of his government would look around and protect the traditional sites, in the process of developing the new town, while those in LOT ‘B’ could come forward with their documents to the committee, once the process commenced.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Appeal Court reserves judgments in Edo governorship dispute

    He assured that his administration was ready to carry out the regularisation of land property in the affected areas, for property owners to have their lands back in other LOTS,  while calling on property owners to register with the Edo Geographical Information System (EdoGIS).

    Okpebholo said, “Survey your lands and register them with EdoGIS, so that you can collect the titles.”

    Visiting leaders of the communities assured the Edo governor of their total support, especially in the development of the LOT ‘A’ in the new city and in his drive to improve the security of their communities.

    Pa Michael Omoruyi, Pa Abel Emokpae, and Ebo Amagba spoke respectively for Obagie, Oke-Oroma, and Amagba communities.

    The leaders hailed Okpebholo for setting up the committee to engage them, saying it was the first time that Edo state government was interfacing with them since 2017, when their lands were first acquired.

    Edo governor, a few weeks ago, set up the six-member committee on land resolution, with Dr. Tony Ikpasaja as the Chairman and Dr. Abdulwasiu Oyakhire as Secretary.

  • Leave Edo or face wrath of law, Edo CP tells criminals

    Leave Edo or face wrath of law, Edo CP tells criminals

    Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has issued a stern warning to criminals operating in the state, urging them to relocate or prepare to face the full force of the law.

    Agbonika assured residents that the Edo State Police Command would intensify its fight against crime until peace and safety are restored across all 18 local government areas.

    In a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, the Commissioner disclosed that operatives from the Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Unit of the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) recently acted on credible intelligence and raided Kendrona Hotel, off Country Home Road in Benin City—believed to be a hideout for suspected armed robbers, kidnappers, and cultists.

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    He reiterated the command’s commitment to making Edo unsafe for criminal elements and urged the public to support law enforcement efforts.

    “During the operation, one Endurance Oviojie, 22, was arrested, while others, later identified as Clinton, Jeff, Mike, and Emmanuel alias Slim Khalifa, surnames yet unknown, escaped through the fence to neighbouring compounds. 

    “The following exhibits were immediately recovered in their possession: One English Beretta pistol, one locally-fabricated pistol, one ammunition, eighteen live cartridges, five handsets of various make, one electronic tablet, charms, and illicit drugs.

    “Further investigations led to the recovery of four unregistered Mercedes Benz vehicles: black C350, grey C300, grey GLA 250, and red GLE 350.”

    Edo commissioner of police also revealed that the suspect had been charged to court for prosecution, while manhunt for the fleeing members of the gang continued. 

  • Gateway Games: Edo cycling coach suspended for unruly behaviour

    Gateway Games: Edo cycling coach suspended for unruly behaviour

    The Cycling Federation of Nigeria (CFN) has suspended Edo State coach, Jackson Iyobosa Edobor, from the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, the “Gateway Games,” due to gross misconduct and unruly behaviour.

    The Nation gathered that the suspension is effective immediately and bars Coach Edobor from attending any cycling competitions or visiting the cycling venue.

    The letter of suspension signed by CFN Secretary-General, Joel Akinluwa, cited his “unacceptable behaviour on May 21, 2025, during the cycling event at the National Sports Festival (Gateway Games) in Abeokuta.”

    According to the CFN, Coach Edobor’s misconduct involved “threatening to kill invited Commissaire,  Osaretin Emuze,” and “accusing him of influencing the outcome of the Male Team Pursuits.”

    Read Also: Gateway Games Ogun 2024: Bayelsa maintains lead on medal table

    The federation stated that such behaviour not only “brought shame” to the coach and his team but also “compromised the integrity of the event.”

    The statement also explained that for the suspension to be lifted, Coach Edobor is required to submit a formal letter of apology to the Cycling Federation of Nigeria.

    In the letter, he is expected to acknowledge his wrongdoing and include a promise to refrain from similar behaviour in the future.

    Our correspondent gathered that CFN has issued a strict deadline, warning that the apology letter must reach them within 48 hours, or further disciplinary actions may be taken.

  • Edo sure of clinching  cricket gold medals

    Edo sure of clinching  cricket gold medals

    The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission,  Amadin Desmond Enabulele, is  confident  that the state’s cricket teams will make a podium finish  at the on-going National Sports Festival in Ogun State.

    Enabulele, according to his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko,  praised the dedication and commitment of Edo’s cricketers during their match against Delta State at the Cricket Pavilion of  the  MKO Abiola Sports Arena.

    Read Also: Gateway Games Ogun 2024: ‘Sparkling-splendour’ opening ceremony delights Dare

    “Our cricket teams—male and female—are unquestionably our major strength and strong contenders for gold medals,” Enabulele reportedly said.

    Enabulele was visibly impressed by the performance of the male cricket team, showering them with accolades and reaffirming the government’s continued support.

    “Cricket is one of our key strengths, and that’s why we’re here—to support them fully and ensure we clinch gold,” he emphasized.

    Beyond cricket, Enabulele also visited the NYSC Orientation Camp in Ikenne, venue for the weightlifting competitions, to encourage Edo athletes competing in various events.

  • Deposed Edo traditional priest arrested with AK-47 rifles, other items

    Deposed Edo traditional priest arrested with AK-47 rifles, other items

    The traditional priest (Ohen) of Okhuoromi in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, Ovbokhan Igbinovia, 43, who was last Thursday deposed by the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, over land-grabbing and extortion, among others, was yesterday arrested by the police with two AK-47 rifles, other arms, ammunition, and suspected human skull.

    Igbinovia was nabbed by officers and men of Edo Police Command, along with Osarodion Omoregie, 41, Charles Otasowei, 55, Edwin Igbinovia, 45, and Osagie Igbinovia, 44.

    The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Moses Yamu, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP), said: “Edo State Command, in a sting operation carried out by operatives of the Command Intelligence and Rapid Response Squad, alongside the Anti-Kidnapping Squad arrested the suspects.

    “The following exhibits: two AK-47 rifles with breach numbers TH4782 and 6683; two single barrel local shotguns; three empty AK-47 magazines; one OFM magazine; eleven rounds of 7.62mm ammunition; and a suspected human skull were recovered from the premises of Ovbokhan Igbinovia Kelvin, the dethroned Ohen of Okhoromi, when search was conducted.

    “The investigation is ongoing to recover other arms and ammunition in his possession and arrest his fleeing gang members.

    “Edo Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, assures the public that the state command will not be deterred or distracted in its resolve to rid the state of all forms of crimes and criminality.”

    The deposed Igbinovia was also stripped of his title.

    Read Also: Oyo to host high-level international tourism summit in July

    The Obazelu of Benin Kingdom, Chief Osaro Idah, conveyed the first-class monarch’s decision to elders of Okhuoromi, led by the Odionwere (village head), and Pa Oghagbon Edosomwan.

    Idah, who was joined by Chiefs Isaac Oyeoba (Oyeoba of Benin) and Chief Uyi Okungbowa (Ogua of Benin), while addressing Okhuoromi elders and victims of land-grabbing and property demolition at the palace in Benin, declared that anyone who contravened the verdict would be dealt with

    The monarch, who distanced the palace from the sacrilege, stated that the throne would not support lawlessness and criminality. He urged the people to eschew violence.

    He assured the protesting victims that justice would be served.

    The traditional ruler said the palace’s chiefs would investigate and assess to the level of damage in Okhuoromi by Igbinovia and co, and urged those with claims to channel their complaints, with evidence, to the authorities.

  • Deposed Edo traditional priest arrested with AK-47 rifles, ammunition

    Deposed Edo traditional priest arrested with AK-47 rifles, ammunition

    The deposed traditional priest (Ohen) of Okhuoromi community in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State, Ovbokhan Igbinovia, 43, was on Saturday arrested by the police in possession of arms, ammunition, and a suspected human skull.

    Igbinovia, who was removed from his position last Thursday by the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, over allegations of abominable practices including land-grabbing and extortion, was apprehended alongside four others: Osarodion Omoregie (41), Charles Otasowei (55), Edwin Igbinovia (45), and Osagie Igbinovia (44).

    Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu, said the arrests were made during a sting operation carried out by the Command’s Intelligence and Rapid Response Squad, in collaboration with the Anti-Kidnapping Squad.

    Recovered items from Igbinovia’s premises included two AK-47 rifles (with breach numbers TH4782 and 6683), two locally made single-barrel shotguns, three empty AK-47 magazines, one OFM magazine, 11 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and a suspected human skull.

    Yamu said the investigation is ongoing, with efforts underway to recover additional weapons and apprehend fleeing gang members. Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, assured residents that the command remains committed to eliminating all forms of criminality in the state.

    Oba Ewuare II dethroned Igbinovia following complaints of unauthorised demolition of private property and violations of Benin customs. 

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    The Obazelu of Benin, Chief Osaro Idah, conveyed the Oba’s decision to Okhuoromi elders, handing over the administration of the community to the Odionwere, Pa Oghagbon Edosomwan.

    During a palace meeting attended by Chiefs Isaac Oyeoba and Uyi Okungbowa, the Obazelu warned that anyone defying the Oba’s directive would face both legal and traditional consequences. The monarch also distanced the throne from acts of lawlessness and pledged that justice would be served to the victims of the deposed priest’s actions.

    The eminent traditional ruler disclosed that the palace’s chiefs had been assigned to further investigate and assess the level of damage in Okhuoromi and urged individuals with claims regarding the issues at stake to channel their complaints, with pictorial and video evidence, to the appropriate authorities.

  • Edo North APC leaders endorse Senator Oshiomhole for second term

    Edo North APC leaders endorse Senator Oshiomhole for second term

    In a remarkable show of political unity and strategic resolve, the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership in Edo North Senatorial District has thrown its full weight behind Senator Adams Oshiomhole for a second term in the Nigerian Senate.

    The unanimous endorsement came during a high-level caucus meeting held in Iyamho, Oshiomhole’s hometown, shortly after a critical security summit with Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo. 

    The dual-purpose gathering underscored both the security priorities of the region and the party’s political direction ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Media Assistant to the Minister of Regional Development, Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah, the endorsement effectively closes the door to internal contention over the Edo North Senate ticket within the APC.

    The meeting brought together prominent political heavyweights and stakeholders from across Edo North, including the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh; former Minister of Budget and National Planning, Clement Agba; APC elder, Chief Francis Alimikhena; South-South political strategist, Dr. Blessing Agbomhere; federal lawmaker, Hon. Dekeri Anamero; grassroots mobilizer, Chief Abu Millionaire; political figure, Chief Ohimai; and development technocrat, Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, among others.

    It was Engr. Momoh who captured the mood of the gathering when, during deliberations, he posed the decisive question on the continuity of Senator Oshiomhole’s legislative stewardship. 

    The response was instant and deafening, a thunderous and unanimous chorus of approval that left no room for doubt.

    In a symbolic statement that echoed through the hall and beyond, party leaders declared in one voice: “No vacancy in Edo North Senate seat.”

    The endorsement is seen as a strategic move to ensure political stability, legislative continuity, and enhanced influence for Edo North at the national level. Since his election to the Senate, Oshiomhole, a former Edo State Governor and ex-National Chairman of the APC, has been a vocal advocate for the region, known for his fiery rhetoric and active presence in legislative debates.

    Party leaders described him as a “pillar of representation” whose re-election would consolidate gains already made and ensure that the district retains a strong voice in Abuja.

    Read Also: NGO hails FG, Senators Okpebholo, Oshiomhole over dualisation of Benin-Lokoja road

    “Senator Oshiomhole has demonstrated unflinching commitment to Edo North and national development. This endorsement is a reaffirmation of our trust in his leadership,” said one senior APC chieftain at the event.

    Before shifting to political matters, the APC leaders had met with Governor Okpebholo to tackle urgent security issues affecting several communities in Etsako, Owan, and Akoko-Edo. 

    The meeting culminated in the adoption of a comprehensive security roadmap backed by both state and federal initiatives. 

    Key points included increased surveillance, community policing support, and inter-agency coordination to stem the tide of recent criminal activity.

    Governor Okpebholo pledged his administration’s full commitment to implementing the agreed strategies, stating, “we must secure our homes before we can talk about progress. Today’s summit has laid a strong foundation for that.”

  • Okpebholo determined to modernise Edo state, says commissioner

    Okpebholo determined to modernise Edo state, says commissioner

    Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communications Paul Ohonbamu has assured that Governor Monday Okpebholo is fully committed to modernising the state and fulfilling the expectations of its residents.

    Speaking in Benin on Tuesday, Ohonbamu revealed that the dualisation of the Ekpoma-Uromi-Ubiaja Road in Edo Central Senatorial District has officially begun.

    He emphasised that Governor Okpebholo’s vision for governance is centered around enhancing the quality of life for Edo people, ensuring their happiness, and preventing situations that drive them into desperation.

    “The governor Okpebholo-led administration has approved the dualisation of the Ekpoma-Uromi-Ubiaja Road,” Ohonbamu said. “People who use the road are now saving time on their journeys and have positive stories to share about the project.”

    “The massive construction going on across Edo State is beyond aesthetics, and the reduction of traffic, because there is also the economic aspects which is the reinvention of commerce in the state.

    “Edo governor has promised to construct three flyovers in the state capital, because he is determined to transform and modernise the state to a portable paradise.”

    Ohonbamu, who expressed optimism that Edo residents were getting convinced of the capacity of the governor, stated that the five point agenda of the administration were becoming impactful on the people.

    He said: “Governor Okpebholo is in Edo to build a virile state with the project SHINE- Security, Health Care, Infrastructure, Natural Resources, Food sufficiency and Agriculture, and Education.

    Read Also: Okpebholo suspends traditional ruler over kidnapping in Edo community

    “There is no doubt that in all these, the governor whose coming is divine, has done impactful things that Edo residents can be proud of, because they now see that government is for governance.

    “Edo state government has constructed roads in Benin City and across the three senatorial districts. Schools have been renovated. They include, Eweka primary school, New Era College; Ebomisi Secondary School; Ileh Primary School, Ekpoma; Irrua Girls Grammar School; Udomi Primary School and even some federal roads, which the previous government avoided, are receiving attention by the Governor Okpebholo administration.”

    Edo commissioner for information and communications also urged residents of the state to continue to support Okpebholo’s administration, in order to move the state forward.