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Tag: Monday Okpebholo

  • Edo Gov suspends Attorney General, LG Commission chairman

    Edo Gov suspends Attorney General, LG Commission chairman

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has suspended the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie, along with the Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Damian Lawani.

    The suspension was announced on Thursday by the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, in an official statement.

    According to Ikhilor, the decision was based on allegations of “grave official and financial interactions” involving the two top officials.

    “The suspension, which takes immediate effect, is pending the conclusion of an investigation into the allegations,” the statement read.

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    “It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that Governor Monday Okpebholo has approved the suspension from office of the Chairman of Edo Local Government Service Commission, Damian Lawani, and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie, over allegations of grave official and financial infractions,” the statement continued.

    “The suspension is with immediate effect. Consequently, the governor has ordered the setting up of an Investigative Committee to investigate the allegations levelled against them and make appropriate recommendations accordingly.”

    The statement emphasised that the suspension was crucial for a thorough investigation into the alleged financial infractions, pending the outcome of the inquiry.

  • Governor: I will implement committee’s recommendation to probe past govt

    Governor: I will implement committee’s recommendation to probe past govt

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has said his administration would implement the recommendations of the Assets’ Verification Committee tasked with assessing the state government’s assets and liabilities.

    Okpebholo, who received the committee’s report yesterday at the Government House, Benin, hailed members of the team for their dedication to probing the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.

    He said: “I thank the committee for doing a good job and the time invested in this exercise. I understand the challenges you faced, yet you successfully carried out this crucial assignment. Rest assured that your findings and recommendations will be implemented.”

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    The governor also reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the issues raised, pledging that his administration would act decisively to strengthen governance and ensure responsible management of the state’s resources.

    The committee Chairman, Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, presenting the report, said the findings were not just a reflection of past actions, but also a call to action for future.

  • No sacred cow in Okpebholo’s Edo

    No sacred cow in Okpebholo’s Edo

    By John Mayaki 

    “It’s mere suspension from office, they would be recalled after the suspended officials clear their hard earned names” I had initially assured myself when the news broke this morning. But, we all can now agree that a “no-nonsense”Sherif is town who would not harbour any sacred cow. He has shown that he is actually in charge of his administration – I mean Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo state. 

    Since taking the oath of office in November last year, Governor Okpebholo has wasted no time in making his stance on governance very clear – it is no longer business as usual but more of business unusual. In a swift manner for which some say it’s rather too early in the day, the Governor has suspended three ranking officials within his administration – the three happened at night – you simple wake up to hear about it. No time to waste. 

    While those who argue that it was too early for the Governor to have taken these decisions, others say he has sent a strong message that his government will not be a safe haven for indiscipline or financial misconduct – although the affected officials are presumed innocent until proven otherwise. 

    The first to face the hammer was the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of Edo State Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency (FEWMA), Mr. Ahmed Musa Momoh. He is a staunched supporter of the Governor from Edo North senatorial district. A die-hard believer in Senator Monday Okpebholo and a man who would go any length to defend the Governor. He is on suspension for alleged insubordination and has also apologised. 

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    Next to be suspended are the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie, and the Chairman of the State Local Government Service Commission, Damian Lawani over allegations of “grave official and financial infractions”. I must confess that this suspensions are a shift in the way governance was being conducted in Edo state. 

    But there is a school of thought that disagree with the modus operandi of thr Governor – they say it’s too swift to carry out a disciplinary action within months of taking office as Governor – in fact, they say it’s “premature”. And I asked them, when will it be “matured” to take such actions? When is the ‘right time’ to demand accountability? Should a leader wait until corruption festers before taking action? I think Governor Okpebholo’s approach signals the urgency of the matter – an uncommon trait lacking in governance. 

    For Okpebholo, there is no “massage” for corruption or deodorant to cover any malfeasance. Neither is he willing to ignore because of political convenience. He is wielding the big stick without fear or favour. 

    Again, for those who say it’s too early, the question is – when, then, should the Governor take action? After a year? After his tenure? After the damage has been done? The truth is this, discipline in the case of insubordination and accountability in the case of financial infractions, both must start from day one. If the Senator Monday Okpebholo’s administration must be taken seriously, it must set the tone early and that is precisely what the Governor is doing. 

    I think it’s more about establishing a standard and not just necessarily punishment. A leader who understands the weight of his responsibilities and applying the kind of urgency it deserves must be commended. We all know that these principles are often ignored in our governance system but common in the private sector. 

    The question I normally would ask when it comes to fiscal discipline is this – if it were your farm, would you allow reckless spending, insubordination, or financial mismanagement? This is the question the Governor is asking those entrusted with public funds and responsibilities. Governance for me, is not a free-for-all but a serious business that demands the highest level of discipline and accountability. 

    The message is undoubtedly loud and clear for every appointee – they are simply walking on eggshells and any deviation from integrity and professionalism will come at a steep cost because for Okpebholo, governance is service to the people and not personal enrichment. Even when those suspended are eventually cleared and reinstated, the warning has been served – it doesn’t matter your status or political connections. 

    Governor Okpebholo has shown boldness in just a few months in office. He has also shown courage, and readiness to work. Now, there is a clear line in the sand against corruption that you cannot cross as an appointee. It is either you shape in, or you shape out. 

    Okpebholo is not ready to be blackmailed that because he has a case in court, everyone should misbehave. There must be discipline, transparency and accountability even though for the period he would remain in office – it must reign supreme. We have seen leaders, but Okpebholo’s style is unusual. No sacred cow.

  • Edo governor signs Secret Cult Prohibition Bill

    Edo governor signs Secret Cult Prohibition Bill

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has signed the Secret Cult Prohibition Bill into law, thereby approving 21-year jail term for cultists and their sponsors.

    The Secretary to Edo State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor, in a statement, said that the previous law had been repealed to impose harsher punishments on cultists and their sponsors.

    He urged the public to take heed and avoid actions that were detrimental to the peace, growth and development of Edo State.

    He said: “It is hereby announced for the information of the public that the Edo State Secret Cult (Prohibition Law) 2018 has been repealed by the Edo State House of Assembly.

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    “By virtue of the repeal, the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, has been passed by the Edo State House of Assembly, and signed into law by the Governor of the State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, effective from 24 January, 2025.

    “Please be informed that in the new law, there are provisions for stricter penalties for anyone found guilty of secret cult-related offences in the state. Section 5 of the law prescribes 21 years of imprisonment for financial and material sponsors of secret cults.

  • Okpebholo okays employment of 500 teachers

    Okpebholo okays employment of 500 teachers

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has approved the employment of 500 teachers for schools.

    This was made known yesterday by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Iyamu, according to a statement by Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua.

    Iyamu said the recruitment would be done in batches.

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    He noted government’s commitment to ensuring public schools had qualified teachers.

    Iyamu said the era of having two or three teachers in a public school was over, advising qualified teachers to apply.

    He said the recruitment would be based on merit.

    The planned recruitment of teachers is happening a week after 360 cleaners were recruited into the civil and public service, as against contract workers that were used by the Godwin Obaseki administration.

  • Governor signs Magistrates’ Retirement Age Extension Bill

    Governor signs Magistrates’ Retirement Age Extension Bill

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo yesterday in Benin signed a bill raising the retirement age of magistrates from 60 to 65 years, into law.

    The governor also signed another bill increasing the membership of Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC), into law.

    Okpebholo, signing the bills, emphasised his administration’s commitment to strengthening institutions that promoted justice and economic development.

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    He said extending the retirement age of magistrates would enhance judicial efficiency, by retaining seasoned magistrates with valuable experience for longer periods.

    He said expanding the membership of EDSOGPADEC would improve governance, representation and operational efficiency.

  • Okpebholo seeks synergy among tiers of govt

    Okpebholo seeks synergy among tiers of govt

    Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called on the three arms of government to synergise and ensure the state’s rapid development.

    He made the call yesterday in Government House, Benin, when he received judges of Edo judiciary, who were led by the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, who were on a courtesy visit.

    Okpebholo stated that the legislature had been very cooperative, especially with regard to the Appropriation Bill, while ensuring its passage for the benefit of Edo residents.

    He urged the judiciary to follow suit, thereby ensuring collaboration with his administration to ensure justice delivery, in order to propel the growth and development of Edo.

    Edo governor said: “Today (January 10), I am happy to see the Chief Judge of Edo State and members of the judiciary. Yes, we have challenges in Edo State, and the executive cannot solve them alone, as we need to synergise to develop and grow the state.

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    “I need synergy among the three arms of government, the executive, legislature, and the judiciary. The executive arm of government has worked with the legislature. The legislative arm is doing well, as it has honoured the requests in the budget, supplementary budget, and other requests we made. The lawmakers have helped us to make the process easy.

    “I welcome you all to Government House today (January 10). This visit is long overdue, because in my inaugural speech, I said I would collaborate and work in synergy with the three arms of government, especially the judiciary.

    “When I did not see the judiciary, I was afraid, but I am happy now that you are here on this courtesy visit. As a parliamentarian, I know what other state governors go through, but the way they open their arms to receive me, I am very happy. I believe the judiciary will do the same, starting from today.

    “My drive is to develop Edo State. We will build on our educational system and improve on it. We will do the same to the judiciary, to ensure that the judiciary also succeeds in its activities.

  • Prioritising training vital for effective governance, says Edo governor

    Prioritising training vital for effective governance, says Edo governor

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has emphasised that prioritizing the training and retraining of public servants is key to achieving better, efficient, and transparent service delivery in governance.

    He made this assertion during the inauguration of three new permanent secretaries at the Government House in Benin.

    Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to developing a team of civil servants dedicated to effectiveness and transparency in their official duties.

    He said: “Edo people voted for us to provide good governance. Public service delivery wiill be central to that agenda.

    “Gone are the days when anything goes in public service. My administration will not tolerate indolence and lackadaisical approach to work. To this end, we are building a team of regular civil servants that will be effective and transparent in their call to duty.

    “We will ensure that public servants in Edo State are constantly trained and repositioned to achieve our dream of a better Edo.”

    Edo governor also admonished the new permanent secretaries to put in their best in making a huge difference in the coming year.

    Responding on behalf of the newly inaugurated permanent secretaries, Mrs. Stella Eshieshie, thanked Okpebholo  for the confidence reposed in them and the opportunity given to them to serve in the capacity of permanent secretaries.

    Eshieshie promised that the top civil servants would bring their experience and expertise to bear, in implementing the administration’s policies, thereby moving Edo forward.

  • Christmas reflects unity beyond tribe, religion, politics – Okpebholo  

    Christmas reflects unity beyond tribe, religion, politics – Okpebholo  

    Edo state governor, Monday Okpebholo, has emphasised that Christmas embodies values that bring people together, transcending tribal, religious, and political divides.

    Speaking at the 2024 Edo Christmas Carol held at the Lawn Tennis Court of Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, Okpebholo highlighted the season as a time for love and hope.

    He urged citizens to embrace the spirit of compassion, generosity, and peace, noting that these virtues are central to the Christmas celebration. 

    Edo governor said: “It is with great joy that I welcome all of you to this beautiful Christmas Carol, as we gather to celebrate our Lord Jesus Christ. 

    “It is particularly memorable for me because this is the first time I have the honour of standing before you as governor, during such an event.

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    “Christmas is a time of love, hope, and unity. It is also a season that reminds us of the importance of compassion, generosity and peace. 

    “This Carol symbolises much more than singing and entertainment; it is a testament to the values that bind us as one people, regardless of tribe, religion and political differences. As we listen to the wonderful voices, let us remember that our strength as a people lies in our diversity.

    “To our children, may the joy of Christmas inspire you to dream big and grow with love and kindness in your hearts. Together, we can build a brighter and more inclusive tomorrow.”

    Okpebholo, in his quest for Edo people to celebrate a unique Christmas, instituted a raffle draw for winners to go home with a mini bus, tricycle, generating sets, sewing and grinding machines, among other items.

  • Okpebholo’s coming and the change of narrative

    Okpebholo’s coming and the change of narrative

    By Fred Itua

    As nations continue to compete in technological, scientific and academic breakthroughs through various incentives, stakeholders in Nigeria have been worried that the nation has not paid much attention to this area as many deserving graduates are often left uncelebrated.

    The social media space had in recent times been flooded with reports of best graduating students of universities being rewarded with as low as N1,000 cash, while many of our first class graduates roam the streets in endless search for job opportunities.

    This, which clearly contrasts the reality in other sectors like the entertainment world, were the winners of reality TV shows, beauty pageant and other events that add no quantifiable value to the society are rewarded with hundreds of millions of naira, had led to a culture where many young men have now popularized the saying,  “school na scam”.

    This discouraging paradox has seen a great relapse in the reading culture among the young ones. Students would rather spend time on social media, creating contents, pressing their laptops and engaging in other activities than devote time to their studies as those who had excelled in this line in time past have nothing or little to show for their academic rigor and excellence.

    This story however is changing in the Heartbeat of the Nation, as Edo State under the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo is giving the much needed attention to not only celebrating students who have excelled in their academic pursuit, but also rewarding them handsomely, financially and giving them opportunities to excel and grow in their chosen academic career.

    This move aimed at changing the narrative, “school na scam” and re-directing the attention of the younger ones to the joys of academic exploits,  research rigor and raising the standard of education in Nigeria is yielding result already as many are now beginning to see,  that excelling in academics could be a sure way of not only achieving financial freedom, but also nationwide recognition.

    It is in line with this initiative of the Governor, that the member representing Akoko-Edo 2 Constituency in Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Donald Okogbe recently presented a generous donation of N1.5 million to James Ojo Allen, UNIBEN’s best graduating student in the 2023/2024 academic session.

    With an outstanding CGPA of 4.98, Mr Allen Ojo sets a new record of the highest ever recorded academic feat in the University’s 54 years history.

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    Earlier in the week, the Chairman, Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr Pally Iyamu gifted the young academic genius, N1 million Naira and decorated him as an Ambassador of SUBEB.

    These recognitions and financial rewards are instrumental and vital in changing the mindset of the average Nigerian youth towards education and its relevance in the 21st century world. By giving priority to educational excellence, the administration of Senator Monday Okpebholo has shown that he is poised to make Edo, an educational vibrant State and regaining its long history of producing the brightest minds in the country.

    In the wake of this significant boost, and the massive investment being planned for the educational sector by Governor Monday Okpebholo as evident in his recent disbursement of N500 million subvention to Ambrose Alli University,  AAU, and the significant percentage earmarked for education in Edo 2025 budget, it is clear that Edo State is set to experience a healthy competition among young scholars, as they jostle to outshine one another in academic feat and scholarly excellence; a move that could spiral innovation, inventions, among others.

    This has awaken the hope in many observers, that many more privileged individuals, corporate organizations, political actors and NGOs would be inspired and encouraged to embark on similar actions in support of education and youth development.  The ripple effect of such initiatives can inspire a culture of excellence and aspiration among young people, enabling them to dream big and achieve their goals

    As our own young scholar and record setter, James Ojo Allen embarks on the next phase of his academic career, he carries with him the hope of his community, the support of his benefactor and the Edo State Government and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His story is a testament to the power of hard work, and the immerse impact of government and political leader’s support in igniting a fire of determination, will and doggedness in youths, reminding us that with the right support, the average Nigerian youth not only have the sky as his limit, but as the starting point to the endless possibilities of the “can do” fire that burns in the veins of every Edo son and daughter.

    In an era where education remains a crucial pillar for advancement, stories like that of Allen, Okogbe, Iyamu and Okpebholo’s investment in education blend to inspire generations, reaffirming that together, we can create a formidable future.

    •Itua is the Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor.