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  • Gov. Okpebholo allocates portfolios to new commissioners in Edo

    Gov. Okpebholo allocates portfolios to new commissioners in Edo

    Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo has on Tuesday sworn in six commissioners into the State Executive Council and assigned them portfolios.

    This is contained in a statement in Benin, by Mr Umar Ikhilor, Secretary to the State Government.

    According to Ikhilor, Mr Paul Ohonbamu is assigned to the Ministry of Information and Communications, while Washington Osifo will take charge of the Ministry of Water Resources and Energy.

    Read Also: Okpebholo inaugurates six commissioners, SUBEB chair, others

    ”Dr Emmanuel Iyamu is assigned the Ministry of Education, Dr Lucky Eseigbe, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and Andrew Ijegbai, Ministry of Mining.

    ”Similarly, Olabisi Idaomi will lead the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

    All commissioners are expected to resume duties in their respective ministries immediately,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • Edo tribunal: Group condemns harassment of PDP witnesses by EFCC

    Edo tribunal: Group condemns harassment of PDP witnesses by EFCC

    EDO Integrity Group, a frontline socio-political group with membership across the 18 Local Government Councils of Edo State has condemned in totality, the harassment of the key witnesses of the Peoples’ Democratic Party for the September 21st 2024 governorship election in Edo State by the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC).

    The group said the development was an attempt by the All Progressives Congress (APC) government to derail the tribunal process in Edo State.

    The group made this remark in a press statement released signed by its national chairman, Apostle Jerry Oshodin.

    According to the body, some men who purportedly claimed that they are EFCC officers stormed a five star hotel in Benin City on Tuesday in a commando style and illegally arrested the PDP star witnesses.

    Read Also: FG, states, LGAs share N1.424trn in January 2025

    In the statement which reads in part, Oshodi said, “It is indeed reprehensible for the EFCC to allow itself to be used in this manner and it remains incomprehensible how the current government will want to use the EFCC to intimidate Nigerians.

    “We hereby condemn in strongest terms possible, this reckless and irresponsible action of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and do hereby demand an immediate discontinuance of all forms of harassment and intimidation of witnesses and other members.

    “The illegal interference and involvement of men and officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on the PDP star witnesses must be stopped by the APC led government as such has the tendency to undermine the process of the ongoing tribunal hearings.”

    They also condemn the random shooting outside the court premises by some hoodlums who disguised themselves to be members of a said party.

    They therefore called on the Nigeria Police and all other relevant security authorities to rise up to the occasion and bring those hoodlums to justice.

  • JUST IN: Kogi, Edo get new CP

    JUST IN: Kogi, Edo get new CP

    …as PSC boss calls for dedication, commitment to duty  

    The Police Service Commission (PSC) on Thursday approved the appointment of Miller Gajere Dantawaye as the substantive Commissioner of Police for Kogi State Command.

    PSC also approved the appointment of Betty Enekpen Otimenyin as the substantive Commissioner of Police for Edo State.

    According to a statement issued by the Head of Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani: “The Commissioners of Police for the two states are due for retirement; CP Chukwuka Bertrand Onuoha, Commissioner of Police for Kogi, is expected to retire from service on the 22nd of January 2025, while CP Peter Umoru will be due for retirement on the 25th of January, 2025.

    “CP Dantawaye, the new Commissioner for Kogi, was formerly AC Operations, FCT Police Command; AC Field Studies, Police Academy, Wudil, Kano; Area Commander, Karewa Adamawa State Police Command; and AC CID, Oyo State Police Command.

    “He was also AC Admin, Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Abuja; Area Commander, Area ‘H’ Ogudu, Lagos State; DC Operations, Yobe State Police Command, Damaturu; DC Operations, Edo State Police Command, Benin; and later CP, Information Technology (IT), Force Headquarters, Abuja.

    Read Also: India’s popular film actor Saif Ali Khan stabbed 6 times

    “CP Betty Enekpen Otimenyin started her career in Bauchi State Command and has served as DPO in various divisions within Plateau and Edo Commands, served as Assistant Commissioner of Police Administration in Kebbi State, and Nigeria Port Authority Western Port, Lagos State; also as Area Commander in Eleme, Rivers State, and Mbaitoilo in Imo State. She was the Deputy Commissioner of Police Administration for Zone 13, Dunokuofia, Anambra State, and Zone 5, Benin, Edo State. She is currently the Commissioner of Police Administration, Force Intelligence Department (FID), Abuja.”

    Ani said the Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu (rtd), has called on the new State Command Commissioners to be dedicated and committed to the service of their fatherland.

    Argungu said they should quickly settle into their duties and ensure that they improve the state of security in the two states.

    He said the Commission will continue to monitor their performance and will also encourage them to give their best.

    Ani said the approval for the appointment of the two Commissioners has been conveyed to the Inspector General of Police for implementation in a letter signed by Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission.

  • ‘Why Edo tribunal adjourned till January 15’

    ‘Why Edo tribunal adjourned till January 15’

    Edo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal yesterday adjourned till January 15, in view of a conflicting matter at the Supreme Court.

    There was an application by lead counsel to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo (first and second respondents) in the petition by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its governorship candidate in the September 21, 2024 election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo.

    Assistant Secretary to the tribunal, Dayo Dahunsi, said there was a pending application from the first and second respondents seeking adjournment, as the lead counsel would be before the apex court on January 14, in a matter slated for definite hearing.

    Read Also: Jubilation as Oyo town welcomes new Alaafin

    Dahunsi read the letter of adjournment submitted by the respondents, which stated: “The application for adjournment is premised on the fact that the counsel for the second respondent has a matter scheduled at the Supreme Court on January 14.

    “We kindly request the indulgence of this honourable tribunal, and confirm that all counsel and parties involved have been duly served via e-mail and WhatsApp.”

    Reacting to the application, Oladipo Oshinowo, who held the brief of the lead counsel for the petitioners, Ken. Mozia, SAN, said he was not opposing the application, in the spirit of cooperation.

    He said: “On behalf of the petitioners, we are prepared to begin trial on January 14. However, the letter for adjournment was submitted to our lead counsel by the registry late yesterday (January 12), wherein the first and second respondents are seeking an adjournment, but did not include a hearing notice for the Supreme Court matter referenced.

  • How suspended Edo LG chairmen remitted N12bn to PDP leaders in 15 months, by Okpebholo

    How suspended Edo LG chairmen remitted N12bn to PDP leaders in 15 months, by Okpebholo

    Edo state governor, Monday Okpebholo, revealed on Tuesday that the 18 local government chairmen were suspended for failing to address findings that approximately N12 billion had been allegely transferred to certain leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over a 15-month period.

    The governor made this disclosure during a courtesy visit by the acting chairmen and councillors of the 18 local government areas at the Government House.

    Governor Okpebholo commended the acting chairmen and councillors for their commitment to upholding democratic values and promoting transparency. 

    He emphasised that public funds belong to the people and should not be misappropriated by any individual, regardless of their position.

    Governor Okpebholo said: “When I came into the office, I had a meeting with the Accountant-General, and he showed me some books. Some of these spending had no explanation.

    “I picked interest in some of the spending because I saw an item which was tagged “Environmental security funding. I have never heard of that before, and the amount involved was huge, N800 million every month. These Chairmen were contributing this money and gave it to leaders of a party.”

    Governor Okpebholo said this revelation led to a meeting with the chairmen who were asked to explain the money allocated to Environmental Security funding, but they could not.

    “I invited the chairmen but could not meet with them, but my deputy met with them. He asked them to explain certain spending, but none could explain. He asked them to provide their books, and they agreed and said they would in 24 hours, but the Deputy said no, Iet it be in 48 hours.

    “But these chairmen didn’t obey the instructions in two weeks as none of them submitted their books. Following the development, I sent a letter to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to look into their records.

    “As a former parliamentarian, I know there is a body that has a function over them, so I sent a letter to Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) and they were invited and they refused to come and they were suspended for two months.”

    He noted that these Chairmen were engaged in wasteful spending “even when our schools did not have teachers. 

    “When you get to primary schools, you find two or three teachers, where you are supposed to have 10 to 12 teachers.

    “I want to thank you because the narrative has been changed by you people as what you have done is not out of the law. Impeaching somebody who is corrupt, who has used the local funds for his personal gain is not wrong. I recognize you as my Chairmen.

    “The only way to drive development to the grassroots is through you. The President also recognized the local government and advised Governors.

    “I am ready to work with the Chairmen of various local government Councils. I am ready to work with you to see that various Council areas progress. You have the full power as local government chairmen. The local government Commission will cooperate with you to ensure you succeed in your duties to serve the grassroots people.

    Read Also: Okpebholo appoints Wike’s ally as varsity governing council chair

    “The money that belongs to the local government. It does not belong to you but the grassroots. So, go and work with the resources,” Senator Okpebholo advised.

    Chairman Local Government Commission, Hon. Damian Lawani who led the acting local government Chairmen on the courtesy visit, assured the Governor that the Chairmen are ready to work closely with the administration and ensure the people at the grassroots enjoy the dividends of democracy.

    Hon Lawani said: “The Chairmen working at the grassroots level are in full support of your development strive in the State and are ready to collaborate with you to ensure the people at the grassroots enjoy good governance.”

    The acting Chairmen of Uhunmwonde, Hon. Iradia Benjamin Osas; Esan West Hon. Godsent Agboibo; and Owan West, Hon. Joy Ohonyon all pledged their loyalty to the administration, assuring the Governor and the people of Edo State that they will collaborate and support the Senator Okpebholo-led administration to succeed and deliver the dividends of democracy to Edo State, expecially people at the grassroots.

  • Tension in Edo as councillors impeach suspended LG chairmen

    • Two PDP chairmen, 13 councillors defect to APC

    Councillors of Uhunmwonde, Orhionmwon and Owan East local governments in Edo State have impeached the chairmen and vice chairmen as the battle for the souls of the LGs between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the ruling All Progressives Congress  (APC) intensifies.

    The impeachment of Kenneth Adodo as chairman of Uhunmwonde LGA on Wednesday unexpectedly turned violent, leaving several people injured and property vandalized.

    The Chairman of Ovia South West Local Government Area, Hon. Edosa Enowoghomenma, and eight councillors including the Leader of the House, Hon. Nosakhare Edobor, as well as the chairman of Owan West Local Government Hon Dickson Ahonsi and five councillors, switched to the APC yesterday apparently to keep their positions.

    The impeached Chairman of Esan Central LGA, Paul Iyoha, accused Governor Monday Okpebholo of engineering his impeachment.

    Iyoha is the fifth LG chairman sacked by the councilors of their respective councils.

    Eghe Ogbemudia, chairperson of Egor LGA; and Frank Osawe, his deputy, were impeached on December 27, 2024.

    The state house of assembly had suspended all the chairpersons and their deputies for two months over allegations of misappropriation of funds.

    The action of the assembly stemmed from a petition by Governor Okpebholo.

    The suspended LG chairmen challenged their removal in court which restored them to their posts.

    Attorney General of the Federation and Justice Minister, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), said the assembly has no constitutional right to suspend the LG chairmen.

    Why we defected to APC –LG chairmen

    Ahonsi said his switch and that of his councillors to the PDP was largely on account of the steps taken so far by Governor Okpebholo to develop the state.

    They were received by the State Secretary of the party, Engr. Lawrence Okah, and other members of the state executive committee.

    He said: “His activities on assumption of office were impressive as he made important appointments, unlike the previous government.

    Read Also: Govt tells workers to redouble efforts

    “Soon, the list of commissioners will be released and it is a welcome development.

    “The projects that he has embarked upon show clearly that Edo is in safe hands, and that is why I am here to join the party.”

    On his part, Enowoghomenma said they decided to join the APC to “work harmoniously with our governor, Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo, the governor of Edo State and our very own, our son, we call him Ovia Proper, Mr. Projects Rt. Hon Dennis Idahosa.

    “Hon Dennis is not a stranger to all of us; we know him and he is a blessing to Ovia South West.

    “As the council chairman, it will do our people, Ovia South West, no good if we do not work in tandem with the deputy governor and the governor of Edo State. Hence we all agreed to come and join him in the APC today and further put our house together to develop our local government.

    “I am happy with my other colleagues of the Ovia South West legislative arm to join forces and ensure that there is development in Ovia South West.

    “The reason why we are in politics is to ensure that Ovia South West is taken to an enviable height. So we are here today, we are not under duress, we are here to join the ruling party in the state to bring about renewed hope to our people.

    “The essence of being in politics is to bring development.”

    Okpebholo is brains behind impeachment gale, says Iyoha

    Iyoha described his removal as improper as he was not given “a fair hearing before being suspended by the State House of Assembly.”

    He claimed the council chiefs were not properly investigated or given the opportunity to defend themselves.

    Iyoha said his offence was his political allegiance to the candidate of the PDP in last year’s gubernatorial election, Asue Ighodalo.

    His words: “My only offence was standing by my party’s candidate instead of supporting Governor Okpebholo, who hails from the same ward in Esan Central as myself.

    “As a loyal member of the PDP, I was duty-bound to support my party’s candidate.

    “It is not a crime to work for one’s party. However, the governor has taken my political stance personal and is using his office to punish me.” 

    Iyoha further alleged that Okpebholo openly vowed that he would not be reinstated as chairman, citing a video purportedly showing Iyoha campaigning against him during the election.

    According to him, “the governor told people that I will never return to my position because I opposed him politically. This is unfair and undemocratic.”

  • EU-RoLAC, Edo mark 16 days of activism with renewed commitment to end GBV

    EU-RoLAC, Edo mark 16 days of activism with renewed commitment to end GBV

    Edo state has joined the global community in commemorating the 2024 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) with a series of impactful activities aimed at raising awareness and advocating for the eradication of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).

    The campaign, themed “UNITE! Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” was spearheaded by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme in collaboration with the State Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues (MSDGI).

    The highlight of the event was the attendance of the Sister to the new Edo State Governor, Monday Okpenholor, Ms Okpenholor, who reaffirmed the governor’s commitment to the fight against SGBV.

    In her address, she emphasised the importance of collective action in creating a society free of violence against women and girls.

    “This administration stands firmly against all forms of gender-based violence. Together, we will strengthen our efforts to ensure that survivors are supported, perpetrators are held accountable, and future generations can live in safety and dignity,” Ms Okpenholor said.

    The RoLAC team spotlighted the detrimental impact of retrogressive cultural practices that have hindered SGBV campaigns in Nigeria for years.

    The State Coordinator, RoLAC, Ms Uche Nwokedi, urged survivors to break the silence and come forward.

    “We must challenge harmful traditions that perpetuate violence and discourage survivors from speaking out. Ending SGBV requires not only strong laws but also a societal shift that empowers survivors to share their stories without fear of stigma,” she stated.

    A range of activities marked the campaign in Edo State, including social media campaigns, road walks, community sensitizations, and a high-level conference. These initiatives were designed to galvanize public attention, engage stakeholders, and spark meaningful discussions around SGBV prevention and response.

    The campaign also highlighted gaps in the implementation of existing laws and policies. Stakeholders called for stronger enforcement mechanisms and urged policymakers to prioritize SGBV prevention within government agendas.

    Read Also: My son qualified to serve as Edo commissioner – Oshiomhole

    “Laws alone are not enough; we need consistent implementation and community-driven solutions to ensure their impact,” a participant remarked during a press briefing.

    The State Government commitment and RoLAC’s call for survivor empowerment set a hopeful tone for the campaign, underscoring the urgency of united action against SGBV.

    As the 16 Days of Activism draw to a close, Edo State remains steadfast in its pledge to protect the rights and dignity of women and girls, ensuring a safer future for all.

  • My son qualified to serve as Edo commissioner – Oshiomhole

    My son qualified to serve as Edo commissioner – Oshiomhole

    Former governor of Edo State and current senator for Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has expressed confidence that his son Cyril, is qualified to serve as the state’s commissioner for health. 

    Oshiomhole made the statement during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday.

    He said: “He doesn’t work under me; maybe Governor Monday is grooming him. When I was in Edo, I stopped him when he wanted to go for the House of Reps. I said no and supported another guy. The second time he wanted to try, I said no. This time the governor decided to pick him. He is qualified.

    “I did express my concerns when I heard. I called him and expressed my concerns. I expressed those concerns to the governor that people might say this and that.

    “Those were the reasons why I stopped him from contesting elections when I was in office but then I have to accept that in the world that we live in, you can only do so much to control your son but not when he is already of adult age.

    “But the point must be made: I invested in my children’s education. I didn’t want them to go through what I went through. So, Dr Cyril is not just a medical doctor from ABU (Ahmadu Bello University), he went to do post-graduate in two universities in the US including Harvard and another university in Louisiana. He does something about public health.

    “So, he is not having it because he is Oshiomhole; I will say he is having in spite of being Oshiomhole.”

    Cyril, a medical doctor, was nominated for the position of commissioner for health by Governor Monday Okpebholo, a close ally of Oshiomhole. 

    He was officially sworn in on November 19 at the Government House in Benin City.

  • Edo governorship election tribunal receives seven petitions against Okpebholo’s victory

    Edo governorship election tribunal receives seven petitions against Okpebholo’s victory

    The Edo Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal, which began sitting in Benin, is to hear seven petitions challenging the victory of Gov. Monday Okpebholo in the Sept. 21 poll.

    The petitions were submitted by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and six other political parties.

    The other parties according to the cause list are the Accord Party, Action Alliance, Social Democratic Party, Allied Peoples Movement, Action Democratic Party, and Zenith Labour Party.

    In his inaugural address, Justice Wilfred Kpochi, Chairman of the three-member panel canvassed for the cooperation of all parties in the case, particularly the legal representations.

    Kpochi lauded the calmness in the courtroom, but raised concerns on the influx of parties supporters into the premises.

    “We will like to crave for your cooperation. I can see this place is calm and hope it will continue like this

    “However, I saw many people outside and wondered what it was all about.

    “On my part, we will say we will cooperate with you. You are senior lawyers.

    “Do not shout at us and we will not shout at you either. If you notice any issue, draw our attention and we will listen.

    Read Also: ‘Why Ikpea will succeed Okpebholo in Edo Central Senatorial District’

    Other members of the tribunal are Justices K. B. Yusuf and A. A. Adewole

    Responding, Ken Mozia, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), leading the PDP legal team, and Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, leading the Okpebholo’s team, promised that the parties would be professional in their trade before the tribunal.

    They assured the tribunal that the supporters would be engaged so as to ensure the place was not rowdy or create commotion throughout the judicial exercise.

    Subsequently, the PDP case against the governor went into pre-hearing, where all parties adopted their exchanged written responses.

    The tribunal adjourned until Dec. 18 for hearing of preliminary motions in this case as well as adoption of addresses of the six others.

    (NAN)

  • Edo miners congratulate Okpebholo, seek support for industry

    Edo miners congratulate Okpebholo, seek support for industry

    The Edo chapter of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN) has congratulated Mr. Monday Okpebholo on his inauguration as the governor of the state following his victory in the last governorship election.

    The miners said the victory was an indication of the confidence the people of Edo have in his capacity to  take the state to a greater height.

    This is contained in a statement by Mr Mike Okhumode chairman and Mr Fatai Jimoh Secretary of the association issued in Benin on Tuesday.

    They appealed to the governor to be magnanimous in victory by running an inclusive government for the purpose of developing the state.

    While describing the governor as a man of intellect and a performer judging from his previous records, the miners urged him to urgently consider the issue of double taxation and insecurity.

    They said the double-edged sword was retrogressing businesses across Edo.

    “We are fully aware of your antecedents in both public office and private capacities; we know that you will not fail to deliver on your campaign promises to the people of Edo State.

    Read Also: Okpebholo inaugurates three judges

    “Electioneering has come and gone. As you settle down to the business of developing the state, we urged you to be magnanimous in victory.

    “This will be done by embracing all shades of opinions and suggestions aimed at developing our dear state,” they said.

    The miners appealed to the people to support the new government to succeed in building a new Edo.

    (NAN)