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Tag: Edo State

  • Oba of Benin orders two-week fasting, prayer to combat evil in Edo

    Oba of Benin orders two-week fasting, prayer to combat evil in Edo

    The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has called on Edo indigenes and residents of the state to embark on a two-week fasting and prayer to combat evil in the State.

    In a statement on Monday by the Obamedo of Benin, Efosa Igbinomwanhia, the revered traditional ruler said the fasting would commence from September 15 to September 28.

    He urged all Benin sons and daughters at home and abroad to fast and pray during the period.

    His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin, uses this medium to inform the general public that from 15 September, 2025 to 28th September, 2025, all sons and daughters of Benin Kingdom and, by extension indigenes and non-indigenes living in Edo State, to embark on two weeks fasting and prayer,” the statement read.

    “This is in line with our age-long tradition that before the commencement of the yearly new yam, it is important that we fast and pray tp God Almighty and the royal ancestors for bountiful harvest and to shield us away from sudden death and for peace and tranquillity in our individual homes, families, state and country at large.

    “All Benin sons and daughters at home and in the diaspora are to fast and pray during this period.

    “The two-week fasting period is from 6 am to 6 pm daily. The Omo N’Oba prays to God Almighty to grant us peace and happiness as we all embark on this fasting and prayer.”

  • PDP rejects planned council by-elections in Edo

    PDP rejects planned council by-elections in Edo

    The People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Edo chapter, has condemned the proposed by-elections into local government councils in the state, describing the exercise as “illegal and unconstitutional”.

    This is contained in a statement by the state Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr Chris Nehikhare and made available to NAN on Monday in Benin.

    Nehikhare said the announcement of dates for the by-elections by the state Independent Electoral Commission was in clear violation of a subsisting court order.

    “The body or group of persons parading themselves as organisers of this exercise are unknown to law and lack the authority or powers to conduct elections of this nature,” he said.

    He stressed that there was no vacancy in the councils since duly elected councillors were already serving in the 192 wards of the state with their tenure lawfully expiring in September 2026.

    He accused the state government of breaching democratic norms and judicial pronouncements, saying that the planned exercise amounted to a ”civilian coup” against the people.

    “We view this action as nothing short of a civilian coup against the people of Edo. It is an attempt to seize control of our councils by hook or by crook thereby undermining the will of the people and destabilising grassroots governance,” he said.

    Nehikhare therefore called on the state government to retrace its steps, respect the rule of law, and desist from plunging the state into avoidable political crisis. He stressed the need to protect democracy and the people’s mandate.

  • Edo govt denies asking teachers to cut grass in schools

    Edo govt denies asking teachers to cut grass in schools

    The Edo State Government has denied asking teachers to cut grass and do other menial maintenance jobs in public schools in the State.

    Dr Paddy Iyamu, Commissioner for Education disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Benin.

    Iyamu said that teachers who engaged in such jobs could be doing so voluntarily because at no time did the state government directed teachers to do such jobs.

    Iyamu debunked the allegations by a Civil Society Organisation in the state that the teachers were directed to do such jobs.

    The commissioner said the ministry strongly frowned at such reports, describing them as “unfounded” and capable of undermining ongoing reforms aimed at rebuilding the image of the teacher in the state.

    “The attention of the Edo State Ministry of Education has been drawn to a publication by a civil society group alleging that teachers are being told by the ministry to cut grass and engage in menial jobs to maintain in their respective schools.

    “Though information at our disposal suggests that it was a voluntary CSR from some teachers.

    “We have ordered a full-scale investigation into this action and we assure our esteemed teachers that we will get to the root of the matter and correct any abnormality in whatever form,” he said.

    Iyamu stressed that the government would not condone any practice that distracted teachers from their core mandate of imparting knowledge.

    “Teachers’ priority is to impact knowledge, so we want to discourage in very strong terms teachers forcibly engaging in or being used to engage in tasks that do not directly correlate with strengthening knowledge gaps and learning outcomes,” he said.

    He urged the public to be wary of individuals attempting to smear the name of the ministry due to ongoing reforms designed to block “unwholesome benefits to a few; to protect the common man and the children from humble beginnings.”

    The commissioner reiterated that the Gov. Monday Okpebholo-led administration remains committed to making Edo teachers proud of their profession.

    He cited recent interventions such as the increment of minimum wage, regularisation of casual teachers to full staff status after three years, construction of teachers’ quarters in some schools, and consistent training and retraining programmes.

    “The Senator Monday Okpebholo administration is fully committed to ensuring that every Edo child gets the best in education and every teacher becomes proud of being an Edo Teacher,” Iyamu said.

  • Gov Okpebholo rescues accident victims on Benin–Auchi road

    Gov Okpebholo rescues accident victims on Benin–Auchi road

    Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on Saturday was personally involved in the rescue of victims of a ghastly motor accident along the Benin-Auchi Road after the bypass.

    Okpbeholo was en route to Irrua in Esan Central Local Government Area of the state with his entourage when he encountered a heavy gridlock and immediately stopped to assess the situation.

    Upon arrival at the accident scene, he found several victims in critical condition, many bleeding profusely, while bystanders were recording videos instead of offering assistance.

    Moved by the dire state of the victims, Sen Okpebholo ordered two of his security Hilux vehicles to be converted into emergency transport vehicles.

    He personally supervised as injured passengers, including a woman with severe injuries, were lifted into the waiting vehicles and rushed to the hospital for urgent treatment.

    Eyewitnesses reported that the accident was caused by the driver of a white Toyota Venza, with registration number ABUJA GWA 50 AW, who drove against traffic, resulting in a collision involving four vehicles.

    The vehicles were three commercial mini-buses loaded with passengers and the Venza.

    The impact left scores injured and caused a major traffic gridlock.

    The governor remained at the accident scene until he was assured that the victims were safely conveyed to a medical facility under the escort of another security vehicle.

    His swift action drew applause from motorists, residents, and sympathisers, who hailed him as a humane and God-fearing leader who prioritised the sanctity of life.

    An eyewitness praised the governor’s actions, saying, “Before the governor arrived, people were only taking pictures and videos. But he came, took charge, and ensured the victims were rescued.

    “This is the kind of leader we need; one who leads with compassion and action.”

    The governor’s intervention has been widely appreciated, showcasing his commitment to the welfare of his people.

  • NDLEA decorates newly promoted Deputy Commanders in Edo

    NDLEA decorates newly promoted Deputy Commanders in Edo

    The Edo Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has decorated seven officers who were recently promoted to the rank of Deputy Commander of Narcotics.

    The event, held at the command headquarters in Benin on Friday, was presided over by the State Commander, Mr Mitchell Ofoyeju.

    Ofoyeju charged the newly decorated officers to see their promotion as a call to higher responsibilities in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.

    “The elevation to Deputy Commander of Narcotics reinforces the agency’s commitment to enhancing its operational capacity and maintaining a strong stance against drug-related crime in Edo,” the commander said.

    The commandant noted that the officers had shown exemplary leadership and resilience in tackling the challenges posed by drug trafficking in the state.

    Ofoyeju emphasised that the command remained optimistic, expressing confidence in the officers’ ability to navigate the complexities of drug enforcement and confront greater challenges in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.

    “I congratulate you and charge you to remain courageous and dogged in the discharge of your responsibilities,” he said.

    Those decorated included Timothy Odu, James Olarewaju, Akpabio Akpan, Anthony Oko, Fidelis Heijirika, Paul Akhazee and Mohammed Danmusa.

    Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Mr Timothy Odu pledged their renewed commitment to duty.

    “To whom much is given, much is expected. We are glad with the promotion and pledge our loyalty and dedication in the discharge of our new responsibilities,” he said.

    The event was attended by senior management staff, fellow officers, as well as family members of the promoted personnel.

    Mrs Omobolaji James, wife of one of the decorated officers, expressed pride in her husband’s achievement.

    “I am proud of my husband’s achievements and the work he has done in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.

    “This promotion is not just for him, but for all of us who support the fight against drugs,” she said.

  • Oba of Benin suspends 2 chiefs

    Oba of Benin suspends 2 chiefs

    The Benin Traditional Council has announced the suspension of two chiefs from the palace of the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II.

    This is contained in a statement signed by Mr Frank Irabor, Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council, on Thursday.

    The statement said the suspension of Chief John Igiehon, the Izuwako of Benin; and Chief Aimuiukpomonyako Oghogho (Ebengho), the Oyenmwensoba of Benin, is with immediate effect.

    It explained that the suspension was due to their long absence from the palace, resulting in their failure to carry out their palace responsibilities.

    The statement advised the public to be wary of “unscrupulous chiefs” who are no longer functioning in the palace.

    It said that the suspension had been approved by the Oba of Benin.

  • Edo assembly confirms 4 new commissioners

    Edo assembly confirms 4 new commissioners

    The Edo State House of Assembly on Wednesday confirmed four additional commissioner-nominees for appointment into the state’s executive council, following a formal request from the governor.

    Governor Monday Okpebholo had sent a letter to the House seeking the screening and confirmation of the nominated individuals for appointment into key positions in his cabinet.

    It would be recalled that the House had on Aug. 20 confirmed Kassim Afegbua, along with seven others, as commissioner-designates to serve in various ministries in the state.

    During Wednesday’s plenary, lawmakers adopted the report of the House Committee on Rules and Business regarding the screening process for the five new nominees.

    The report indicated that four of the five nominees were present and recommended for confirmation, while one nominee failed to appear.

    The confirmed commissioner-designates are: Vincent Osas Uwadia, Etin-osa Ogbeiwi, Saturday Uwuilekhue Idehen and Charity Amayaenvbo.

    In a voice vote during plenary, members of the House unanimously confirmed the four nominees as commissioner-designates without objections.

  • NLC dissolves Edo council over leadership rift

    NLC dissolves Edo council over leadership rift

    The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has dissolved its Edo Council following failed efforts to reconcile internal leadership disputes.

    Mr Benson Upah, acting General Secretary of the NLC, announced the dissolution in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja.

    Upah explained that the move became necessary due to escalating conflicts between the elected State Council Chairman, Odion Olaye, and a rival faction allegedly backed by the state government.

    “Congress, after going to great lengths to reconcile the two groups in the interest of workers in the state to no avail, was left with no option but to dissolve the entire council, in line with the provisions of the Congress constitution,” he said.

    He added that a caretaker committee had been appointed to manage the council’s affairs until fresh elections were conducted.

    Upah also accused the Edo Government of seizing the keys to the NLC Secretariat in Benin and threatening caretaker committee members ahead of their scheduled inauguration on Aug. 28, 2025.

    He advised the governor to ensure the safety of the caretaker committee members and NLC officials involved in the inauguration, emphasising that their protection was a matter of responsibility.

    According to him, both the police and the Department of State Services (DSS) have been alerted.

    He advised that the government should refrain from interfering in trade union matters, noting that such actions were contrary to both Nigerian labour laws and international.

    Recalling the legacy of notable Edo labour leaders such as Pa Imoudu and Adams Oshiomhole, Upah advised the governor to uphold that tradition by acknowledging the autonomy of labour unions and avoiding further interference.

  • APC suspends 2023 Edo South Senatorial candidate

    APC suspends 2023 Edo South Senatorial candidate

    The Edo chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced the suspension of Mr Valentine Asuen, its 2023 senatorial candidate for Edo South, over alleged anti-party activities.

    In a statement on Benin on Monday, Peter Uwadie-Igbinigi, State Publicity Secretary of the party, said the decision was taken in line with the party’s constitution and disciplinary framework.

    According to him, Asue has been suspended from the party in accordance with the provisions of the APC Constitution 2022, as amended as he has been found culpable of actions deemed capable of inciting division within the party.

    “This disciplinary action became necessary following his conduct, which runs contrary to the spirit of unity, loyalty, and collective progress enshrined in our constitution.”

    Uwadiae-Igbinigie explained that the actions of the ex Edo South senatorial candidate contravened Articles 21:2 (ii) & (v), and 21:5 (a), (c), (d), (e), (f) & (h) of the APC constitution (2022), adding that the offences were punishable by suspension or expulsion.

    “These actions have been deemed to amount to inciting division within the party, thereby undermining the cohesion and discipline expected of every member.

    “No act capable of destabilising the party or inciting disaffection amongst members will be condoned,” he stressed.

    Reacting to insinuations of lopsidedness in the appointment of political office holders, the publicity secretary dismissed the claims.

    According to him, appointments made so far by Gov. Monday Okpebholo are evenly spread across the state.

    “Let it be clearly stated that all appointments made thus far by the governor have been evenly distributed across the state without any undue influence from the party’s Secretary, Mr Lawrence Okah.”

    The state APC’s spokesman urged members to remain united and focused on the party’s vision, warning that indiscipline or disloyalty would be met with firm sanctions.

    “The APC remains committed to internal democracy, discipline, and the protection of its integrity.

    “We call on all members to remain steadfast, united, and committed to delivering good governance and democratic dividends to the people,” he said.

    Asuen, a prominent politician and business man, contested the 2023 Edo South Senatorial election under the APC banner but lost to the candidate of the Labour Party, Neda Imasuen, who has since decamped to the APC.

  • How APC defeated PDP, ADC to sweep Edo by-elections

    How APC defeated PDP, ADC to sweep Edo by-elections

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Sunday declared Dr Joseph Ikpea of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the winner of the Edo Central Senatorial by-election conducted on August 16.

    INEC Returning Officers, Prof. Kingsley Omo-Iwoze, announced the results at the official collation Centre in Ubiaja, Esan South-East Local Government of Edo State.

    Ikpea secured a total of 105,129 votes to defeat the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Joe Okojie, who polled 15,146 votes.

    Addressing the media shortly after being declared the winner, the Senator-elect, Ikpea thanked God for his victory and the people of Edo Central, who made his victory a reality.

    Ikpea expressed heartfelt appreciation to the electorate for their overwhelming support, noting that their votes were not just for him, but an expression of trust in Governor Monday Okpebholo and the APC’s developmental agenda for Edo.

    He described Okpebholo as a visionary leader, whose unwavering commitment to grassroots governance and party unity contributed significantly to the electoral success.

    Ikpea also lauded the APC leadership and the by-election campaign council for their coordination, discipline, and tireless efforts.

    The senator-elect promised to prioritise legislation and interventions in infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, and strengthening traditional institutions in the district.

    Omosede Igbinedion wins Ovia federal constituency by-election in Edo

    Similarly, INEC declared Barrister Omosede Igbinedion the winner of the Ovia Federal Constituency by-election held on Saturday in Edo.

    The election took place across two local governments of Ovia South-West and Ovia North-East , both forming the Ovia Federal Constituency in Edo.

    Announcing the results early Sunday morning at Iguobazuwa, the returning officer, Clement Ighodaro, declared Igbinedion, the winner with a total of 77,053 votes.

    Her closest rival from the PDP polled 3,838 votes, while the ADC candidate came third with a total of 925 votes.

    In her victory speech, Barrister Igbinedion thanked her supporters and pledged to deliver impactful and effective representation at the National Assembly.

    Igbinedion was first elected into the House of Representatives in 2015 and would now return to represent Ovia Federal Constituency for the second time.