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Tag: Monday Okpebholo

  • Okpebholo: harmonious relationship between executive, legislature will aid growth

    Okpebholo: harmonious relationship between executive, legislature will aid growth

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has said synergy and harmonious relationship between the executive and legislative arms would aid rapid development and growth in the state.

    He spoke yesterday at the Government House, Benin, while signing into law, a bill for the establishment of Edo State College of Nursing, Health Sciences and Technology.

    Okpebholo said the school, when established, would open up the area for growth and development, as well as create employment opportunities for residents.

    The governor, who hailed the working synergy between the legislature and the executive, called for its sustenance.

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    He said: “Let me congratulate Edo State House of Assembly for this bill, which they recently passed and have brought to my office today (May 5) for assent.

    “I am most grateful for the kind of cooperation I am receiving from the legislative arm. I want to also let you know that Edo people are happy with what we are doing and how we are working together in harmony. This bill is a dream come true for Udomi community as they have been clamouring for this developmental stride in the area.

    “Edo legislative house has maintained a good and brotherly relationship with the executive arm of government for the growth and development of Edo State. I pray such will continue so that Edo residents can fully enjoy the dividends of democracy. Our relationship will enable us to work for Edo people. I assure you that we will work hard together to improve the lives of Edo residents.”

  • Okpebholo intensifies battle against kidnappers, cultists

    Okpebholo intensifies battle against kidnappers, cultists

    •Demolition of properties linked to sponsors begins

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has launched a crackdown on crime-related properties with the demolition of buildings connected to kidnappings and cult-related violence.

    During the demolition of a residential duplex allegedly being used in Benin City for kidnapping and organ harvesting, the governor told reporters that the government had also sealed off one hotel and an event centre.

    These facilities, according to Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary (CPS) Fred Itua, are being used by cult groups as gathering points before launching attacks on innocent residents.

    Itua confirmed that the demolished property was the site of a gruesome crime involving the abduction and killing of a young woman for organ harvesting.

    He noted that the suspect has been arrested in Lagos and will be transferred to Edo State for prosecution.

    Itua said: “The building was where the crime occurred, and it is owned by the father of the suspect, who has also made useful statements to the authorities.

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    “His Excellency has directed that this is only the beginning. More buildings used for criminal activities will be demolished. This is backed by existing laws enacted by the present administration.”

    The CPS said crackdown had nothing to do with politics “This is not a political witch-hunt. These buildings were used for acts that contravene the laws of Edo State. The Governor has made it clear that anyone involved in cultism or related crimes will face the full force of the law,” he added.

    The owner of the demolished building, Mr. Martins Oghenewore, recounted the shocking moment he learned of the crime.

    “On the 23rd of this month, while returning home, my wife called to inform me that our son had murdered a woman in his quarters. I immediately reported to the police, who followed me home and helped convey the corpse to the mortuary. I’ve been in police custody since then,” he said.

    Oghenewore further stated that his 28-year-old son had long exhibited troubling behavior.

    “I trained him from primary school through university in Ekpoma. For over a decade, he has been a problem. I took him to rehab, neuropsychiatric centres, and even traditional healers.

    “He rarely slept at home, drank excessively, and was often missing. Now he has destroyed everything I worked for. This house was my retirement plan, and now I’m watching it being torn down. It’s heartbreaking,” he lamented.

    Authorities confirmed that the suspect was apprehended in Lagos with human body parts recovered from him. The government has stepped up efforts to stamp out kidnapping and cultism in the state.

  • When Okpebholo’s economists stormed Washington for Edo’s economic growth

    When Okpebholo’s economists stormed Washington for Edo’s economic growth

    By John Mayaki 

    Edo Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo seems to have been quiet but focused in  scripting a new chapter in Nigeria’s subnational economic diplomacy – at least, details from the 2025 Spring Meetings of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund in Washington, D.C., has revealed Okpebholo’s mission – a chapter built not on loans and liabilities, but in bold partnerships and forward-looking investments. 

    In the midst of this global buzz in Washington, Okpebholo’s mission and those of his economists who were in attendance are clear – to reposition the state for sustainable development and magnet for capital inflows across vital sectors such as healthcare, infrastructure, education, agriculture, and manufacturing. Okpebholo’s strategy is rooted in one principle – build, don’t borrow. And, if you must borrow, it must be tied to development. 

    And so, a high level delegation of men was deployed to lead the state’s economic pitch and her efforts in Washington and they showcased the State as the most investment-ready subnational economy in Africa. 

    At the forefront of this global investment campaign is a carefully assembled trio of technocrats and professionals whose combined experience spans international finance, strategic governance, and policy innovation. 

    Leading the team was Hon. Emmanuel Okoebor, the Commissioner of Finance for Edo State, who has to his credit, over 25 years of experience in banking and public finance. 

    Before his appointment as the Commisioner for Finance, he previously held senior leadership roles at Standard Trust Bank and United Bank for Africa (UBA), where he served as Deputy General Manager and Regional Manager, overseeing 15 branches and over 500 employees across Edo State.

    A seasoned financial strategist, Emmanuel combines deep industry knowledge with technical expertise, holding a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering and an MBA in Finance from the University of Benin. He is a COREN-registered engineer and member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, HCIB, and Nigerian Institute of Management.

    His career tells of a strong commitment to operational excellence, fiscal innovation, and economic development.

    On this delegation was Hon. Kizito Okpebholo, Special Adviser to the Governor of Edo State, Nigeria on Finance, Investments, and Revenue Generation. A seasoned financial services professional with nearly two decades of experience across commercial and investment banking, capital markets, and the public sector. 

    He has held leadership roles in regional and globally recognized institutions, including Zenith Bank, Canaccord Genuity, and Morgan Stanley, where he served as Vice President. 

    His public sector experiences span two continents, having worked with the Government of Ontario, Canada, and currently serving as the State Portfolio Focal Person for World Bank-financed programs in Edo State.

    A certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Scrum Master, and Business Continuity Professional, Kizito is passionate about building resilient financial systems and delivering impact-driven reforms in governance and development finance.

    Also among the delegation was Hon. Chief Comrade Taiwo Akerele – the third pillar of the team. He is a policy economist and global thinker whose academic background includes stints at Harvard, Carleton, Stellenbosch, and Ibadan. 

    A former Chief of Staff in Edo State and the immediate past Project Coordinator for the World Bank’s Public Financial Management and Youth Employment Program, Akerele is also the Country Representative of Policy House International.

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    Together, this trio which representations a blend of pragmatic experience, academic excellence, and strategic foresight had their unambiguous assignment cut out for themselves and that was to pitch Edo state as Africa’s rising investment hub. 

    From boardrooms to bilateral summits, the team showcased a robust portfolio of bankable projects in mining, oil and gas, Agro-processing, SME development, and housing. Their message was clearly clear – Edo is open for serious business. 

    Most importantly and central to these engagements in Washington was the Multi-Sector Global Partnership Summit, co-hosted by the Edo State Government in collaboration with ReadyToLead Africa and Policy House International. This summit was not a talk shop; it was a marketplace for meaningful connections, where intentions are matched with capital, and rhetoric is replaced by results.

    According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Fred Itua, “This isn’t the Edo of hopeful proposals and unending PowerPoints. This is a government that has done its homework. We’re offering transparency, vision, and projects that are ready for takeoff.”

    Okpebholo’s administration is also positioning the state to benefit from the World Bank’s $50 billion Africa-focused investment pipeline scheduled for 2025–2026. Through strategic tools like Investment Project Financing (IPF), Multilateral Investment Guarantees (MIG), and Technical Assistance (TA), Edo hopes to secure support for public-private infrastructure ventures, academic exchange programs with Ambrose Alli University, social protection initiatives, and housing development.

    This renewed global engagement tells of a deliberate departure from the outdated reliance on debt-heavy models. Governor Okpebholo is pioneering a smarter pathway; I mean one that promotes equity-based partnerships and fiscal responsibility.

    “It’s a bold shift,” said Itua. “We are not asking for handouts or loans with punishing conditions. We’re offering value – for investors, for partners, and most importantly, for the people of Edo.”

    No doubt, the global economy is undergoing realignment and international capital seeking stable, growth-ready destinations, Governor Okpebholo is making sure that Edo State is not left behind. This Washington offensive is more than a diplomatic visit – it’s a declaration of intent.

    One thing is certain – the Okpebholo administration is not just chasing investments; it’s building a future where prosperity is planned, growth is shared, and development is measured not in borrowed billions, but in empowered citizens.

    I have no doubt that with this bold step into the corridors of global capital, the Edo story is changing – I call it, “one investment at a time”.

  • Edo Gov vows to tackle criminal elements, ensure state’s security

    Edo Gov vows to tackle criminal elements, ensure state’s security

    Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has assured that criminal elements will not succeed in destabilizing the state under his leadership.

    Speaking at a security meeting in Iyamho, Etsako West Local Government Area, in the Edo North Senatorial District, Obaseki emphasised his commitment to maintaining law and order across the state.

    The meeting, which was held in a bid to address the growing security concerns in the region, saw the participation of prominent political, religious, and traditional leaders, heads of security agencies, and other key stakeholders. Together, they discussed solutions to the unique security challenges facing Edo north.

    Following the closed-door meeting, Governor Obaseki vowed to take strong action against criminal elements, ensuring that their activities would no longer be tolerated in the state. He pledged to make Edo a place where criminals would find no refuge.

    The representative of Edo North senatorial district, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who is a former governor of Edo state; Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh; Speaker of Edo House of Assembly, Chief Blessing Agbebaku; ex-deputy governors of Edo, Peter Obadan and Philip Shaibu; among other top politicians, were also at the crucial meeting.

    Okepbholo stated that the security stakeholders’ meeting became necessary to ensure peace and security were maintained across the state, particularly in Edo North. 

    He noted that political, religious, and traditional leaders attended the meeting, where they all discussed the security challenges facing the people and came up with possible solutions.

    Edo governor assured that residents of the state should expect a better security situation in Edo, with all the deliberations to be properly utilised.

    He said: “We came here for a peaceful discussion regarding security, and all our leaders are here, both traditional and religious. The closed-door meeting was successful, as we had a good deliberation, and discussions were fruitful. We had a perfect discussion. Let us watch it from here. Things will be perfect in our land.”

    Oshiomhole, a former National Chairman of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), after the meeting, hailed Okpebholo for his approach to handling security issues in Edo.

    He appreciated Edo governor for the security meeting and assured residents of the state that the Okpebholo-led administration would make Edo safe for all to live and do business.

    The former Edo governor (Oshiomhole) said: “Senator Okpebholo has come to Edo North to discuss with the people what he has been doing, and what he will do in terms of security of lives and property in Edo state.

    “The meeting lasted for three hours, and it enabled Edo governor to listen to comments from stakeholders and all those present. The governor gave us the assurance that he will continue to ensure Edo is safe for us all.”

    Oshiomhole also stated that Okpebholo had provided vehicles and motor bikes for the police and other security agencies.

    He said: “Edo governor recognises that the local people have their own roles to play. We have discussed how the communities will work with security agencies and forward any information they have to the governor, through available channels.

    “Edo governor came to meet with us and to hear us out. This is the first time a governor is doing this. I do not think during my time as a governor, I came for security meetings like we have done today.

    “The people have expressed their confidence in the governor. They have reaffirmed their loyalty and commitment to work together with the security agencies, so that Afenmai land will be safe.”

    Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Bishop Gabriel Dunia, appreciated all who came for the stakeholders’ meeting and urged them to collaborate to ensure peace in Edo State.

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    Bishop Dunia said: “We are very much appreciative of our governor and all the traditional rulers who have come for us all to deliberate on the security of our people and our land. People have spoken their minds on the way forward, and we will work with it to ensure our land knows peace.”

    A traditional ruler from Edo North, Mallam Ali Suleiman, said the security meeting gave stakeholders confidence, while traditional rulers resolved to collaborate with security agencies and stakeholders to ensure peace in Edo.

    The monarch said: “Today, we are experiencing a landmark event in response to security issues agitating our minds. Edo governor came here by himself, not delegating anyone to handle the meeting.

    “We have been very worried about the development. The governor came here himself, and also the Minister for Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, and this has given us confidence and we the traditional rulers have resolved to work with security agencies and all stakeholders to ensure Edo State is safe for us all.”

  • Edo governor, PDP chairman call for unity, hope at Easter

    Edo governor, PDP chairman call for unity, hope at Easter

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, and the state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Tony Aziegbemi, have urged Nigerians to embrace unity, love, and resilience during the Easter season and beyond.

    In a statement issued on Sunday morning by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo extended warm greetings and heartfelt wishes to all Edo residents, both within the state and in the Diaspora, as they mark the joyous celebration of Easter.

    Reflecting on the deep meaning of the season, the governor described Easter as a powerful symbol of hope, sacrifice, and renewal.

    “As we celebrate this sacred season,” Okpebholo said, “let us be reminded of the enduring lessons of Easter: the importance of compassion, forgiveness, and the unwavering belief in a brighter future.

    “Just as Easter signifies a new beginning, so too do we, as a state, continue to strive for progress, development, and a more prosperous future for all our citizens.”

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    He also acknowledged the challenges that the state had faced and continued to navigate, while drawing inspiration from the Easter story, which underscored the possibility of overcoming adversity through faith and collective effort.

    He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to good governance, sustainable development, and the well-being of every Edo resident.

    Okpebholo said: “This Easter, let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of peace, harmony, and mutual respect. Let us strengthen the bonds that unite us and work together to build the Edo of our dreams – a state where opportunities thrive, and every citizen can reach their full potential.”

    Edo governor equally encouraged all residents of the state to use the festive period to spend quality time with family and loved ones, to extend a hand of kindness to those in need, and to reflect on God’s blessings in their lives.

    In the same vein, Aziegbemi, in a statement on Sunday morning, noted that with the celebration of the resurrection of Christ at Easter, he extended heartfelt greetings to all Edo residents, Christians across Nigeria, and indeed every citizen who drew strength from the spirit of the season.

    Aziegbemi said: “Easter is a time of renewal, sacrifice, and the triumph of hope over despair. It reminds us that even in the face of trials, light will always conquer darkness, and with unity, faith, and resilience, we can overcome any challenge.

    “In this season of reflection and rebirth, we urge all Edolites to embrace the values of peace, love, and collective progress. Let us continue to work together towards a state where opportunity, justice, and prosperity are not just ideals, but realities for all.

    “The PDP remains committed to the development and well-being of Edo people. We are confident that with renewed spirit and purposeful leadership, better days lie ahead.”

    Edo chairman of PDP also prayed that this Easter would bring joy, renewed strength, and the courage to keep hope alive to all residents of the state and other Nigerians.

  • Death penalty awaits kidnappers in Edo —Okpebholo

    Death penalty awaits kidnappers in Edo —Okpebholo

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo says kidnappers caught in the state will face the death penalty, specifically by hanging, expressing readiness to sign the death warrants of convicts.

    Governor Okpebholo disclosed this at the stakeholders’ session at the Uromi Town Hall, where he had an interactive session with leaders and members of the Arewa community in Esan land.

    This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, on Friday.

    He noted that the Edo State House of Assembly had passed a bill amending the Kidnapping Prohibition Amendment Law (and Related Matters 2013).

    The bill, he said, prescribes the death penalty for kidnappers and mandates the confiscation and demolition of properties used in the commission of their crimes.

    Governor Okpebholo said his administration will not tolerate insecurity, killing, and kidnapping anymore in the State as he will deal ruthlessly with all criminal elements in the State.

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    “I take the issue of insecurity seriously and will not bend the rules but apply them strictly. The new law in the State permits us to demolish their properties and confiscate their lands. We will build vigilante team offices on those lands.

    “We will bring kidnappers to the public and execute them to show our seriousness according to the laws already passed by the EDHA. I will not be afraid to sign it,” he declared.

    The governor called on all to collaborate with his administration to secure the State, saying “security is the business of all and not for security agencies alone.

    “The kind of security we want to have in the State is one where security remnants women are paid salaries, unlike before where the people will just put on uniforms without being paid. We are going to employ vigilante teams and pay them salaries and stop people from just putting on their uniforms.

    “These people will work with security agencies, and they will be trained on how to fight crimes and handle criminals. I will not wait until campaign time to solve your problems. I will start to address the problems facing our people in the market, and everywhere.

    “It is time to start profiling people from other States who claim to be from the North and ensure they don’t spoil your name. We will fence the market, put streetlights, and build abattoirs for those slaughtering cows. We want to secure the people of Edo State.”

    Governor Okpebholo said President Bola Tinubu loves the North and has been very supportive to ensure that the Uromi killing didn’t lead to more destruction.

    “Those destroying the land, causing problems are not even from Nigeria. They are foreigners but the president has vowed to bring peace to Nigeria,” he revealed.

    Chairman of Arewa in Edo Central, Bawa Umar, thanked the governor and the Onojie of Uromi for the peace that has been restored.

    Chairman of Uromi Cattle market, Isah Muhammad, thanked the governor for the way he handled the Uromi incident which he said helped to bring down the tension in the area.

    General Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd), said: “I appeal to the Arewa community to ensure they have a database for all their members to be able to account for all their members. I urge the leaders to advise their members and monitor their activities to ensure they are not criminal activities.”

  • Edo offsets medical bills of mother, newborn detained for over two weeks by UBTH

    Edo offsets medical bills of mother, newborn detained for over two weeks by UBTH

    The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Saturday morning, paid the medical bills of a mother and her newborn who were detained for over two weeks by the management of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in Benin, Edo State. 

    Okpebholo, besides settling the outstanding medical bills, also facilitated the discharge of the mother and her baby.

    Edo governor, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Health Matters, Precious Ogboru, and the Executive Assistant, James Iorkusah, visited the mother and her newborn at UBTH while stating the state government’s commitment to the health and welfare of the residents, especially the vulnerable.

    Okpebholo reiterated that his administration placed a premium on the well-being of Edo residents, promising that health intervention programmes would soon be launched across the state to support indigent people facing similar challenges.

    Ogboru and Iorkusah said: “This intervention aligns with the SHINE transformational agenda of the present administration of Governor Okpebholo in Edo State.

    “Edo governor, upon learning of the case, immediately instructed us to ensure that the medical bills were paid, first thing this (Saturday) morning. This gesture reflects the compassionate leadership that defines Senator Monday Okpebholo’s administration.

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    “Plans are underway to roll out a comprehensive and state-wide health support initiative, targeting indigent residents. Some beneficiaries are already being attended to, even ahead of the formal launch.”

    The affected family, led by Mr. Innocent Akpan, expressed deep appreciation to the Edo governor for the timely intervention, which led to the release of his wife, Mercy Bassey, and the newborn.

    Akpan said: “I am overwhelmed with joy. For over two weeks, my wife and baby have been held here (UBTH), because we could not afford the hospital fees.

     “Today (Saturday morning), thanks to the generosity of the Edo State governor, we are going home free. God bless him (Okpebholo).”

    The Head of Public Relations and Protocol of UBTH, Dr Joshua Uwaila, in his remarks, also hailed the Edo governor’s prompt action while describing it as a true demonstration of compassion and responsive leadership.

  • PDP, Ighodalo’s appeal will crash, Okpebholo assures

    PDP, Ighodalo’s appeal will crash, Okpebholo assures

    Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo has declared the appeal by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its governorship candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, would crash at the Court of Appeal.

    Okpebholo spoke at Okaijesan Town Hall, Irrua, venue of the celebration of his Wednesday’s victory at the election petitions tribunal in Abuja, which Ighodalo and PDP vowed to appeal with the well-attended and colourful rally hosted by Edo Central senatorial district’s leaders.

    He expressed gratitude to Edo residents for their massive support and prayers, while assuring them that his administration would continue with the current pace of developmental strides.

    The Governor maintained that Ighodalo and PDP were free to appeal the judgment of the tribunal, but assured them that they would fail abysmally at the appellate court.

    He said: “The leaders of the main opposition PDP in Edo have been talking and shouting, but Edo people spoke very clear and loud with their votes on September 21, 2024. Edo people voted for the right person in Senator Monday Okpebholo. The people will speak again, when the time is right.

    “We defeated them at the tribunal in Abuja, and they said they want to appeal the judgment. If they like, let them appeal and even get to the Supreme Court, we will defeat them.

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    “They have stolen enough money from Edo State. So, they are wasting the money on court cases. If they like, let them spend the whole money they stole from the people. They will never steal Edo people’s mandate given to me and the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the September 21, 2024 governorship election in Edo State.”

    Okpebholo also assured that his administration would develop Esan land through road infrastructure, while revealing that the contract to dualise the old road from Ekpoma to Ubiaja had been awarded to a competent contrator by his government.

    He said: “As we won the September 21 governorship election and subsequent inauguration on November 12, 2024, the first thing we did was to make sure that our roads were motorable across Edo State. If you come to Enewa now, it is looking like Abuja, as we are putting in efforts to ensure that we have good roads to boost economic activities.

    “I know the problem of Edo State and Esan land. I have already awarded the old road from Ekpoma to Ubiaja to be dualised. There will be much space to enable vehicles to pass freely, without hitting one another. When completed, this road will boost economic activities in the area.

    “I am an Edo man, an Esan man, and I know the problem of Esan people. Today (April 4), I came to tell you that the tribunal has given us victory again, after the September 21, 2024 governorship election in Edo State. 

    “Edo residents have spoken, and by the grace of God, very soon, what we promised our people, they will start enjoying them. The promise like the soft loan, our people will soon start getting the money. It will start happening in less than two weeks. The money is ready. Names are being compiled for the interested people who want the loan.”

    The Secretary to Edo State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor stated that God gave Edo residents double victories in the governorship election of September 21 last year, and now in the election petitions tribunal’s judgment.

    Ikhilor declared that Okpebholo, who won the governorship election in Edo, had been affirmed by the tribunal as the duly-elected governor of the state.

    The SSG said: “We are grateful to God Almighty and the people of Edo State for their support and continuous prayers.”

    The leader of Arewa community in Esan land, Bawa Umar, hailed Edo Governor for his efforts in ensuring peace, stability, and development in Edo state, after the penultimate Thursday’s gruesome murder of 16 travelling hunters at Uromi in the same Edo Central senatorial district.

    Umar stated that Okpebholo’s visit to Kano state to condole with his Kano counterpart, Abba Kabir Yusuf, spoke volumes of his personality as a gentleman and a man of peace.

  • We are hopeful of victory on Edo Gov dispute – APC Chairman

    We are hopeful of victory on Edo Gov dispute – APC Chairman

    Ahead of the judgment of the Edo Governorship Election Tribunal slated for Wednesday, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed hope for a positive outing for its candidate in the election, Governor Monday Okpebholo.

    Edo APC Chairman, Chief Jarrett Tenebe, who spoke in Abuja on Tuesday, said his party believes the tribunal will uphold justice and the will of the people of the state, who decided that they preferred the APC and its candidate.

    “I am calling on all APC faithful in Edo State to remain calm. Our lawyers did a very good job and we believe in the Judiciary. We believe they will do justice. We are hopeful of victory,” Tenebe said.

    He commended Governor Okpebholo’s handling of the recent Uromi killings, claiming that some members of the leading opposition party in the state – the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) –  were behind it.

    Tenebe said: “Their sinister objective is clear – they want to force President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Edo State because they have no confidence in securing victory at the Edo Election Petition Tribunal. 

    “In their desperation, they have resorted to acts of sabotage, hoping to manipulate public perception and judicial sentiment in their favour.”

    As part of their plan, they have enlisted disbanded members of the Edo State Security Network to orchestrate acts of violence, as seen in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area. 

    “Their aim was to falsely implicate the Edo State Government in these disruptions, creating a narrative that fosters chaos and sympathy for their failed cause. 

    “They are also exploiting the composition of the tribunal, where two of the three judges are from the North, hoping to sway their ruling through deceit and unrest.

    “Their recent criticism of Governor Monday Okpebholo for traveling to Kano State to condole with victims’ families further exposes their involvement in the Uromi mayhem. 

    “Their hypocrisy and desperation know no bounds, but we will not be deceived,” Tenebe said.

    The Edo APC Chairman urged security agencies to go after some identified members of the opposition and ensure they are promptly apprehended.

    He added:  “I urge the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to liaise with embassies in countries where these PDP members reside and request their extradition for prosecution. 

    Read Also: Edo gov dispute: Tribunal gives judgment Wednesday

    “Terrorism and violent attacks against the peace of our nation cannot and will not be tolerated.

    “As a political party, we are going to formally write to foreign missions, embassies, and other international bodies to extradite these fellows who keep inciting the public to commit acts of terrorism. 

    “They must be repatriated to Nigeria in order to face terrorism charges.

    “Let me make it categorically clear – no amount of blackmail, intimidation, or desperate orchestration will stop Governor Monday Okpebholo from emerging victorious at the tribunal on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. 

    “The people of Edo have spoken, and their mandate will not be stolen through underhanded tactics.

    “These antics will not weaken us; rather, they will only make Edo stronger. We will continue to stand firm in defense of democracy, justice, and the rule of law,” Tenebe said.

  • Nigerians laud Edo Governor over handling of Uromi killings

    Nigerians laud Edo Governor over handling of Uromi killings

    Nigerians across political divides have lauded Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo over his handling of the security concerns in the aftermath of the gruesome killing of 16 northern travellers by a mob in Uromi.

    Okpebholo whose efforts to douse the tension has returned normalcy to Uromi town and Edo state immediately condemned the violence, personally visited the scene, ordered for the arrest of the perpetrators, suspended the illegal vigilante groups as well as suspended the Commander of the State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin who was subsequently arrested by the DSS.

    In his reaction a legal practitioner and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) in Edo state, Barrister Jefferson Uwoghiren, who is one of the critics of Governor Okpebholo, commended him saying, “Edo Governor in Kano. Apology is not a sign of weakness. It’s the ultimate sign of strength, sound strategy, and sincerest defence for days and years to come”.

    In his response, a fiction writer, poet, journalist, Gimba Kakanda, who is also a Senior Special Assistant to the President on research and analytics said, Okpebholo’s response was decisive and well-articulated.

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    He added: “The response from the Edo State Government offers hope for justice for all parties. The SSG, Umar Musa Ikhilor, is not only a valued friend but also a strong ally of the North, from Zaria to Minna and Abuja. I trust that northerners in Edo State have found in him a reliable advocate for justice”.

    A former Chief Press Secretary to former governor Godwin Obaseki, Mr. John Mayaki said: “Governor Okpebholo did not stop in merely condemning the incident, he immediately followed up with a visit to all the concerned stakeholders – the family of the bereaved, Kano State government, the governors forum and also paid a condolence visit to Senator Barau Jibrin, the deputy president of the Senate, who is from Kano.

    “The efforts of the governor has brought in normalcy especially the arrest of 14 persons in connection to the gruesome killing. The governor have also established a committee to support the bereaved families and offered apologies to the government and people of Kano state. He spoke in Hausa language during the visit”, he said.

    Continuing, Mayaki who is also the President of Nigeria-Agro Multipurpose Cooperative Society said: “Governor Okpebholo has left no one in doubt about his administration’s commitment to justice, security, and rule of law. His efforts so far has shown all of these and many more”.

    The scholar from Cambridge and Oxford University on leadership added: “The Governor has demonstrated true leadership by immediately visiting the scene, engaging with community leaders in the state and beyond especially on the streets of Kano state.

    “The police already made arrests – that tells you that Okpebholo is a leader who would not tolerate lawlessness and who matches action with his words. This is a governor who has shown tremendous capacity in governance and deserves all the support he can get from well meaning Nigerians”.