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Tag: Idahosa

  • WESPAC 2025: Idahosa leads Nigeria’s scrabble revolution in Accra

    WESPAC 2025: Idahosa leads Nigeria’s scrabble revolution in Accra

    The air in Accra crackles with quiet tension, the kind that only champions can command. And at the heart of this Nigerian storm stands one man, Engineer Bright Idahosa, the newly elected President of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF), whose leadership has turned words into weapons and conviction into currency.

    Under his watchful eye, Team Nigeria’s presence at the 2025 World English Scrabble Players Association Championship (WESPAC) is nothing short of a national statement, bold, brilliant, and beautifully intimidating.

     “The weight of over 200 million Nigerians is on our shoulders here in Accra,” Idahosa declared, his voice a mix of burden and belief. “There is no margin for error.”

    For Idahosa, this championship is more than a contest of tiles, it is the opening chapter of a new era for Nigerian Scrabble, one defined by purpose, pride, and power.

    He has been, quite literally, burning the candle at both ends to ensure that Nigeria’s story in Accra is not only victorious, but unforgettable.

    Support flows from every corner, individuals, corporate bodies, and the National Sports Commission, yet Idahosa, like Oliver Twist, wants more. More backing, more belief, more bite.

    His energy has infected the entire federation. From the technical savvy bench to the players, Nigeria’s campaign in Accra feels like a crusade for glory.

    In this charge, he is not alone. Heavyweights like Engineer Ojior Osikhena, a rare blend of competitor and motivator and eight other board members including Engineer Olobatoke Aka, Dipo Akanbi, Khaleel Adedeji, Hakeem Olayiwola Olaribigbe, Sani Ladan, Engineer Gbenga Ojofeitimi, and Vice President Lovejoy Ogbuokiri Ezinna, have created an unbreakable spine of leadership and solidarity.

    The very powerful Lekki Scrabble Club has a strong delegation led by its President Samuel Anikoh.

    Charles Uzamere playing in the side event – Sika and Nsikan Iyanam who advanced into the elite division through the Last Chance Qualifier are part of the Lekki Scrabble Club family in Accra to add some fillips to Team Nigeria.

    At the opening rally, Adedeji’s words rang through the Nigerian camp like a war drum:

     “Every tile you place, every word you form, and every point you earn carries the hopes and pride of millions back home. You are the face of excellence, resilience, and the Nigerian spirit on the world stage.”

    And that spirit, fierce, faithful, and fearless, is what Coach Prince Anthony Ikolo is banking on.

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    “We’ve done our homework,” Ikolo said, brimming with quiet confidence. “We’ll smile back to Abuja with the diadems, in both team and individual categories God’s willing.”

    From the experienced hands of Oluwatimilehin Doko, Africa’s current No.1, to the young talents making their WESPAC debut, the message is clear, Nigeria has come not to participate, but to dominate.

    Former NSF President Engineer Olobatoke Aka, now an elder statesman of the sport, he is convinced that this is Nigeria’s hour of glory.

    Twenty green-and-white warriors have stepped onto the global stage, each one carrying a piece of the nation’s dream. And as they battle in the Gateway to Africa, it’s Bright Idahosa’s vision that lights the way, a vision of unity, integrity, and triumph.

     “Because when Team Nigeria plays, it’s not just Scrabble. It’s spelling out destiny, one word at a time,” the Edo State-born sports administrator concluded.

  • Idahosa seeks NBA support to end violent crimes in Edo

    Idahosa seeks NBA support to end violent crimes in Edo

    Edo Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa has appealed to the Benin brach of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), also referred to as “Lion Bar,” to collaborate with the state to end violent crimes.

    Idahosa assured the NBA that Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration’s desired to end crime and criminality while upholding the rule of law.

    In a statement by his Press Secretary, Friday Aghedo. Idahosa spoke when he played host to members of the Benin brach of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Benin.

    Idahosa said Edo was plagued with security challenges such as kidnapping, cultism and its related issues.

    He said Governor Okpebholo needed to take decisive action to address the menaces which plagued society.

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

    “To the glory of God and with your support, we have done reasonably well at reducing crime in Edo State.

    “We need your collaboration with the administration to assist at stamping out crimes and criminality and boost investors confidence in the state.

    Chairman, Benin NBA branch, Idemudia Osifo, hailed Governor Okpebholo for the efforts at eradicating security challenges in then state.

    He said the NBA maintained cordiality with the seat of power in order to form a solid partnership geared towards the delivery of dividends of democracy to the people of the state.

  • Benin stands still for Okpebholo, Idahosa after tribunal victory

    Benin stands still for Okpebholo, Idahosa after tribunal victory

    Benin, the capital of Edo State, stood still for Governor Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, on Thursday who arrived from Abuja after the election petition tribunal affirmed them as winners of the September 21, 2024 governorship election.

    Idahosa; Secretary to Edo State Government Musa Ikhilor and other top government functionaries, accompanied Okpebholo in a motorcade from Benin airport to the palace of the Oba of Benin, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare ll, where he acknowledged cheers from residents.

    The Governor and entourage, while paying homage to the Oba of Benin, thanked him for his prayers and support for the new administration since it came on board.

    Okpebholo appreciated the people of Edo State, and hailed the tribunal’s judges for their unanimity in their decision in his favour, based on what was provided before them by all parties.

    He assured Edo residents that his administration would continue with the developmental stride that he started to ensure that Edo people enjoy the dividends of democracy.

    He said: “I am here in the palace to let you know that the issues of the election petition tribunal between Monday Okpebhole and Asue Ighodalo have been resolved. It was resolved in favour of Monday Okpebholo and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    “The three judges agreed that Senator Monday Okpebholo won the September 21, 2024 governorship election in Edo State. Three parties took APC to the tribunal, and all the cases were thrown out by the judges. This means that I am the duly-elected governor of Edo State.

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    “Your Majesty, I am here to thank you and Edo people for the love, prayers, and support shown to my administration. I will continue to do my best and work for Edo people and ensure that Edo enjoys the dividends of democracy.”

    The first-class monarch, who was pleased with the outcome of the election petitions tribunal, described the Edo Governor as a traditional son of the palace.

    Oba of Benin personally prayed for Okpebholo to succeed, unlike the usual practice of delegating a palace chief to do so.

    The foremost king noted that some persons came to destroy the Benin kingdom but the current Governor came to rescue the state.

    According to him: “The tribunal’s judgment was a victory for Edo people. Edo governor has been doing well for the state, as he has hit the ground running. I am supposed to travel today on a working visit, but when I heard that the governor was coming, I had to wait for him.

    “We heard that he wants to bring the victory to his father. I had to wait for him. He is my traditional son. We will do our best to be praying for him and play a fatherly role.

    “The governor is a traditional son. We will not speak much. This is significant as we have not done this before. I appeal to the sons and daughters of the Oba, chiefs in the palace, as we will not allow our son to kneel for too long. We have not done this before, leaving the throne to lift a person up from his kneels. The ancestors directed us to do this.

    “I encourage you to work harder, and I know you have been working so hard that sometimes you have no time to play. We thank you for coming here first. Thank you so much.”

  • JUST IN: INEC presents certificates of return to Okpebholo, Idahosa

    JUST IN: INEC presents certificates of return to Okpebholo, Idahosa

    Edo state governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and his deputy, Hon. Denis Idahosa on Thursday, September 26, received their certificates of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    The certificates were presented to them by Mrs Rhoda Gomos, a national commissioner who represented the Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.

    Read Also: APC youths pledge support for Okpebholo

    They were accompanied to the INEC headquarters by the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Secretary, Senator Bashiru Ajibola, and Minister for Niger Delta Affairs, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, Senator Adams Oshiomhole and the Deputy Governor of Edo state, Phillip Shuaibu among others.

    Details shortly…

  • Okojie lauds Okpebholo, Idahosa on victory in Edo governorship election 

    Okojie lauds Okpebholo, Idahosa on victory in Edo governorship election 

    The member representing Esan North East/Esan South East Federal Constituency, Edo State, Rt. Hon. Prince Henry Odianosen Okojie, has congratulated, Senator Monday Okpebholo and Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa on their victory in the just concluded governorship election as Governor-elect and Deputy Governor-elect of Edo State respectively.

    Okojie, who was the Coordinator, Edo Central APC Governorship Campaign Council, said their victory was a result of the hard work and dedication.

    He expressed confidence they would bring positive change in Edo State.

    In a statement personally signed and made available to The Nation in Abuja, Okojie said, “I heartily congratulate my dear brothers, H.E, Senator Monday Okpebholo and H.E, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, the Governor-elect and Deputy Governor-elect of Edo State on their overwhelming victory in the just concluded Edo 2024 governorship polls.

    “Your hard work and dedication have clearly paid off, and I’m sure you will bring positive change to Edo State.

    “I sincerely know that Edo will be great again, having our Governor elect and his deputy as they embark on this important journey of transforming our dear state to a new level of growth and prosperity. 

    “On behalf of the good people of Esan North East and Esan South East Federal Constituency of Edo State, be rest assured of our continuous support,  prayer, and loyalty. 

    “May God Almighty give you the wisdom that you need to succeed on the mission of rescuing our state from untold hardship, setbacks, and underdevelopment. Once again, accept my warmest regards and message of deepest congratulations.”

  • Okpebholo, Idahosa lauded on victory in Edo governorship election 

    Okpebholo, Idahosa lauded on victory in Edo governorship election 

    Senior Legislative Aide to the Senate President on Tertiary Institutions and TetFund, Victor Ureshemi Akande, has congratulated Sen. Monday Okpebholo and Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa on their victory as Governor-elect and Deputy Governor-elect at the governorship election in Edo State.

    Hon. Ureshemi saluted the doggedness and resilience of the leaders and people of Akoko-Edo for fully supporting Sen. Okpebholo and Hon. Idahosa to pilot the affairs of the people of Edo State.

    He expressed conviction that they will reward the people of Akoko-Edo by fast tracking development for the benefit of the people.

    He said with the duo in charge, the people of Edo State will benefit more and enjoy the dividends of democracy across all sectors.

    Akande, is a two term aspirant for the Edo State House of Assembly.

  • Idahosa delivers polling unit for APC with landslide

    Idahosa delivers polling unit for APC with landslide

    Edo All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy Governorship candidate  Dennis Idahosa delivered his Iguobazuwa West ward, Polling Unit 3 for his party.

    Read Also: Edo Decides: I will win with a landslide, Ighodalo boasts

    According to results announced at the unit, the APC secured 131 votes at the unit, to the PDP’s 12.

    Idahosa currently represents Ovia Southwest/Ovia Northeast Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.

  • Idahosa: my greatest regret is supporting Obaseki

    Idahosa: my greatest regret is supporting Obaseki

    A member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, Charles Idahosa, has rejoined the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Idahosa, an ally of Governor Godwin Obaseki, resigned his membership of the PDP on April 29.

    Idahosa, who described Obaseki as ‘an intoxicant’, said his greatest regret was preventing the governor from resigning, thrice, when he confessed to be tired of governing.

    The party chieftain spoke yesterday at his private residence in Benin while being issued his membership card by the APC Chairman in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, Osayemwenre Osawe.

    The ceremony was witnessed by former Deputy Governor Pius Odubu; National Women Leader Dr. Mary Alile, and her husband Pius Alile, among others.

    Idahosa, Obaseki and others to joined the PDP from APC on June 19, 2020, ahead of the September 19, 2020 governorship election. He hoped that the APC governorship candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, would emerge victorious on September 21, which happens to be his 72nd birthday. He however urged APC members to be united and keep their eyes on the ball.

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    According to Idahosa, the PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo, cannot get 80 per cent of the votes, as boasted by Obaseki, but ‘Okpebholo would succeed the governor on November 12’.

    He said: “Four years ago, there was grumbling in APC family and some of us left I thank God that four years later, we all are wiser now. The damage we did four years ago, the APC never remained the same.

    “I am glad we are back to the family. I was nominated to the Board of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) when I was in the APC. When I moved to the PDP, I wrote to resign my membership, but it was rejected, which showed my wide acceptance.

    “It is not over, until it is over. This is not time for division in the APC. We will return Edo State to APC, through the September 21, 2024 governorship election.”

    Idahosa also berated Governor Obaseki for his recent comments that members leaving PDP were given money to defect. He said the greatest tragedy that could befall APC and Edo State would be to allow Obaseki to win again, through Ighodalo.

  • Idahosa sues Ighodalo’s ally for defamation, demands N2b damages

    Idahosa sues Ighodalo’s ally for defamation, demands N2b damages

    The  deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the September 21, 2024 election in Edo State, Dennis Idahosa, has sued Rev. Olu Martins, an ally of the standard bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, over a malicious and defamatory publication.

    Idahosa, the representative of Ovia constituency of Edo in the House of Representatives, also demanded N2 billion as general, punitive, aggravated and exemplary damages against the defendant (Martins, the Deputy Director of the media team of Ighodalo campaign organisation), for the libellous and malicious publication.

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    The suit was filed yesterday by Idahosa’s lawyer, Dr. Ehiogie West-Idahosa, SAN, at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja Judicial Division.

    The claimant (Idahosa) wanted a declaration that the content of the online publication made vide various WhatsApp group chat pages, Facebook page and other social media outlets by the defendant, with the headline: “APC guber candidate, Okpebholo, mocks Oshiomhole, as Idahosa returns from foreign trip,” published by the defendant on several dates, including May 2, 2024, is libellous and discredited the personal and political reputation of the claimant in the eyes of the general public.

    Idahosa equally demanded public apology, running for four weeks on the social media outlets, and withdrawal and removal forthwith of the offensive publication, and payment of N15 million as cost of the action.

  • Edo 2024: Idahosa remains APC guber candidate, says Imuse

    Edo 2024: Idahosa remains APC guber candidate, says Imuse

    …Okpebholo faults Ganduje’s congratulatory message to winner

    David Imuse, the immediate past chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State and one of the twelve governorship aspirants cleared for Saturday’s direct primary election, has said that Dennis Dennis Idahosa remains the APC’s candidate for the upcoming September 21 poll in Edo state.

    Imuse noted that Idahosa, the youthful representative of the Ovia constituency in the House of Representatives and former Edo commissioner for investments and public-private partnerships during the administration of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, possesses the necessary capacity, experience, and maturity to lead Edo State forward, beginning from November 12 of this year.

    He said: “I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, on securing the APC governorship candidacy in Edo State. The triumph signifies a promising future, not only for our esteemed party, the APC but also for the well-being of our beloved Edo State.

    “Your emergence as the standard bearer reflects the confidence and support you have garnered within the party. The victory bodes well for the upcoming governorship election, and I am optimistic about the positive impact your leadership can bring to our state. Again, congratulations on the significant achievement, and I wish you continued success in the journey ahead.”

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    However, the representative of Edo Central Senatorial District, Senator Monday Okpebholo, who was declared the winner by Dr. Stanley Ughoaja at a parallel governorship primary election also in Benin, kicked against the congratulatory message by the national chairman of APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, to Idahosa.

    He described the congratulatory message as misleading and an attempt to give credence to Idahosa’s victory.

    Okpebholo, through the Director of Media and Publicity of his governorship campaign organisation, Godswill Inegbe, stated that APC’s national chairman, as the father and respected leader of the party, should not have hurriedly issued a congratulatory message, despite the controversies.

    The senator also stated that he had confidence in the state and national leaders of APC to ensure justice.

    It will be recalled that Imo STATE GOVERNOR, Senator Hope Uzodimma, who was the Chairman of the APC governorship direct primary election committee for Edo State, declared Idahosa winner at Protea Hotel, Benin on Saturday, February 17.