TheNewsGuru

Tag: Edo State

  • BREAKING: APC wins Edo Central by-election

    BREAKING: APC wins Edo Central by-election

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the by-election held on Saturday for the Edo Central Senatorial District in Edo State.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Mr Joseph Ikpea, candidate of the APC, polled a total of 105,129 votes to defeat Mr Joe Okojie, candidate of the PDP, who polled 15,146 votes, in results announced by INEC.

    TNG reports the by-election was held in Edo Central Senatorial District to replace Senator Monday Okpebholo, who is now the Governor of the State.

    Details shortly…

  • Edo by-election: Okpebholo faults malfunction of BVAS machine

    Edo by-election: Okpebholo faults malfunction of BVAS machine

    Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo on Saturday expressed concerns over the slow performance of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in the ongoing by-election in Edo Central Senatorial District.

    Okpebholo said this while casting his vote at Ward 2 Polling Unit 1 in Udomi Primary School in Esan Central Local Government.

    Speaking with journalists shortly after casting his vote, Okpebholo said that although the exercise was peaceful, the BVAS machines deployed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were causing unnecessary delay.

    “Well, I just voted. You can see the frustration. The BVAS is just too slow. It takes too long before you can get accredited. I think INEC needs to look into this. So far, so good, the reports I’m getting are good,” Okpebholo said.

    The governor, however, commended INEC for the peaceful conduct of the exercise. He urged the electorate in the senatorial district to participate fully in the process and defend their votes.

    “The process has been smooth here and the reports I am getting from other areas in the district are also smooth. INEC is doing well. I urge the voters to come out to vote and defend their votes,” Okpebholo said.

    The by-election is being conducted to fill the vacant senatorial seat following Okpebholo’s emergence as Governor of Edo State.

  • Police announce restriction of movement in Edo State

    Police announce restriction of movement in Edo State

    The Police Command in Edo State has deployed 7,825 personnel and ordered a restriction of movement for the Saturday by-elections in the State.

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is conducting by-elections into the Edo Central Senatorial and Ovia Federal Constituency seats at the National Assembly.

    The elections followed the emergence of Sen. Monday Okpebholo as the governor of Edo in the Sept 2024 gubernatorial election in the state.

    Similarly, the Ovia federal constituency seat became vacant sequel to the election of the erstwhile occupant, Dennis Idahosa as deputy governor in the off-cycle election.

    A statement issued in Benin on Friday by the spokesman of the police in Edo, SP Moses Iyamu, said the personnel were drawn from different formations and units.

    According to him, these include Zone 5 headquarters, the command, Police Mobile Force , Special Intervention Squad, and the Election Monitoring Team from the Force Headquarters, Abuja.

    Yamu quoted the state Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, as saying the deployment was designed to ensure adequate security before, during, and after the polls.

    This, he said, was to guarantee the safety of voters, electoral officials, and materials, as well as to maintain law and order.

    The police spokesperson said the command also imposed a restriction of movement from 12:00 midnight on Friday to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, in all areas where elections would be held.

    “This measure is to prevent any form of interference, disruption, or breach of peace during the electoral process,” he said.

    He urged members of the public to comply with the directive, noting that only persons on essential duties with valid identification would be allowed passage during the restriction hours.

    He said the commissioner warned that anyone found violating the order or engaging in acts capable of disrupting the election or undermining the peace would face the full weight of the law.

    “While assuring residents of the command’s neutrality and professionalism, Agbonika encouraged eligible voters to come out and exercise their civic responsibility without fear.

    “Adequate arrangements have been made for your the safety of everyone,” he said.

  • Edo bye-elections: INEC distributes sensitive materials

    Edo bye-elections: INEC distributes sensitive materials

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (lNEC) has commenced the distribution of sensitive materials to Ovia Federal Constituency and Edo Central Senatorial District  ahead of the Saturday bye-elections.

    The Edo Resident Electoral Commissioner, Anugbum Onuoha, and other officials of the commission supervised the distribution of the sensitive materials.

    The exercise, which took place in the premises of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in Benin, had some agents of the political parties of APC , PDP, AA, and ADC, among others, on ground to monitor the exercise.

    Security agencies were also on ground to ensure the smooth process of the distribution exercise

    Addressing newsmen, Onuoha noted that the sensitive materials had been distributed to the five local government areas in Edo Central and two local governments in Ovia, where the bye elections would hold.

    He said that the commission was fully prepared to ensure that the election was hitch free and called on the electorate to come out enmass to vote for their choice candidates.

  • Ovia bye-election, litmus test for APC ahead 2027 – Edo Deputy Gov

    Ovia bye-election, litmus test for APC ahead 2027 – Edo Deputy Gov

    Edo Deputy Governor, Mr Dennis Idahosa, has described the August 16 Ovia federal constituency bye-election as a litmus test for the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Idahosa stated this on Sunday during the party’s campaign flag-off for the bye-election in Ovia South West Local Government Area of the state.

    He urged party leaders and members to intensify mobilisation and canvassing efforts to ensure victory for the APC, stressing that unity and commitment were key to success.

    “On the part of the government, Gov. Monday Okpebholo has embarked on infrastructural transformation of the federal constituency to make life more meaningful for the people,” he said.

    Addressing residents of Siluko Ward, Idahosa noted that the community, aside from its large population, was one of the gateways into Edo, making it strategic for development.

    He added that the best way to support the governor’s development agenda was to work for the APC’s victory in Saturday’s poll.

    “Saturday’s bye-election is to show our preparedness for the 2027 general elections. I want it to be a 100 per cent win for the APC.

    “Be reminded that all the good things that have come to Siluko ward were facilitated by the APC government.

    “We are not taking this election for granted. When you get home, tell your family and neighbours that APC is one way, vote for Omosede Igbinedion, the only female candidate for the National Assembly from Edo state,” he said.

    On her part, Omosede Igbinedion, the party’s candidate for the poll, described the deputy governor as a grassroot politician who had worked for the transformation of the federal constituency.

    She appealed to the people not to relent on their support for the deputy governor, as well as the APC for more infrastructural development.

    “Even in the cause of these campaigns, he (Idahosa) has brought some more projects to our communities.

    “With your votes on Saturday, I am going to complement his efforts in Abuja for the total transformation of our constituency,” she promised.

    Similarly, Sen. Neda Imasuen asserted that as a second term member of the House, Igbinedion would be able to identify lapses she made in her first term and correct them and influence projects for the betterment of her constituents.

    The council chairman, Nosakhare Edobo, said that the governor had shown commitment to the people to deserve their support.

  • Edo Govt. bans transport unions, others from revenue collection

    Edo Govt. bans transport unions, others from revenue collection

    Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has banned transport unions and a private firm, Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd, from collecting any form of revenue in Edo.

    A statement on Wednesday in Benin by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor, said that the groups no longer have the authority to collect levies, taxes, or dues.

    The government raised concerns over the resurgence of illegal collections by unions acting under misleading pretences across various parts of the state.

    Ikhilor explained that some of the unions were previously allowed to support the Edo Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) under strict conditions that they have now violated.

    He said that their activities reportedly include unauthorised cash collection, intimidation, extortion, and harassment of motorists and traders, violating the terms of their engagement.

    “As a result, the state government has immediately banned NURTW, RTEAN, ANNEWAT, and Drivers on Wheel from any revenue-related activity across Edo.

    “These groups, including Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd, are no longer permitted to collect dues from any individual, driver or road user statewide.

    “Credible reports indicate that Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd and its operatives have engaged in serious abuse of power, leading to widespread public extortion,” he said

    The SSG noted that governor Okpebholo viewed the illegal activities as economic sabotage and a grave threat to law, order, and public confidence in governance.

    He stressed that intimidation of motorists or abuse in the name of revenue collection would no longer be tolerated under any circumstance in the state.

    “All union revenue operations are now suspended indefinitely pending further directives from the Edo Government and relevant regulatory bodies.

    “The new order prohibits any person or group under the listed unions from collecting payments or levies from road users in any form.

    “Motorists and traders are advised not to comply with demands for cash or other illegal payments made by the banned transport unions,” he added

    Ikhilor encouraged citizens to report illegal revenue collection activities directly to the Edo Special Taskforce led by SP Michael Anetor.

    According to him, complaints can be directed to the official taskforce contact number: 08038157126 for prompt investigation and enforcement action by the authorities.

    He said that the state government had formally notified the Commissioner of Police and all security agencies to act against any violations of the revenue ban.

    He further explained that security agents have now been authorised to arrest and prosecute anyone or any group acting contrary to the governor’s directive immediately.

  • Edo: PDP demands removal of REC ahead of NASS by-elections

    Edo: PDP demands removal of REC ahead of NASS by-elections

    Ahead of the National Assembly by-elections, the Edo chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for the immediate removal of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr Anugbum Onuaha.

    Chairman of Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, Dr Anthony Aziegbemi, made the call during a press conference on Tuesday in Benin.

    Aziegbemi said the REC allegedly acted in a compromised manner during the last governorship election, leading to a loss of confidence in his neutrality.

    Recall INEC had fixed Aug. 16, for the bye-elections in Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Connstituency to fill two vacant legislative seats vacated by Sen. Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa.

    According to Aziegbemi, Onuaha’s continued presence poses a threat to the credibility and fairness of the upcoming bye-elections.

    He accused the REC of playing an ignoble role in the previous polls, undermining the integrity of the entire electoral process in Edo.

    The PDP urged the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu to act swiftly by redeploying the REC and restoring public trust in the process.

    The party also called for the removal of certain Electoral Officers (EOs) who served during the 2024 gubernatorial election in Edo.

    “We also demand that the EOs who were in Oredo, Ikpoba-Okha, Egor, Etsako West, Etsako East, and Akoko Edo should steer clear of the bye-elections.

    “Their involvement in the irregularities that marred the last governorship election makes their participation unacceptable,” he said

    Aziegbemi emphasised its commitment to free and fair elections, reaffirming the slogan “One Man, One Vote” as a PDP guiding principle.

    The party warned against any attempt to manipulate the outcome and called on INEC and security agencies to guarantee transparent conduct.

    Addressing recent defections from the party, Aziegbemi wished the defectors well but remained confident in its strength and grassroots support.

    He stressed that political dynamics, like nature, were governed by natural laws that eventually restored balance and justice.

    He urged voters to remain vigilant, participate fully, and vote for PDP candidates capable of delivering democratic dividends to the people.

    He thanked the public and reaffirmed the party’s unwavering commitment to protecting democracy in Edo and beyond.

    Speaking on the party’s preparedness for the bye-elections, Aziegbemi stated that the PDP was confident of victory.

    “In line with our constitution and under the guidance of the National Working Committee, the party conducted screening, congress, and primaries to select candidates.

    “The process was transparent, inclusive, and credible, and it was accepted by a majority of PDP members across the affected constituencies in the state.

    “Prince Joe Okojie emerged as the PDP candidate for Edo Central, while Johnny Ikponmwosa Aikpitanyi won the Ovia Federal constituency ticket.

  • Gov Okpebholo suspends adviser on oil, gas

    Gov Okpebholo suspends adviser on oil, gas

    Governor Monday Okpebholo has suspended his Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, Felix Osemwengie Isere, for alleged unauthorized fundraising over an upcoming Oil and Gas summit in Edo.

    The suspension was announced in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor, on Tuesday in Benin.

    The SSG said the governor also announced the immediate halt of the planned summit, scheduled to begin on Aug. 7.

    “Due to the breach, the proposed summit is suspended, and Isere is directed to refund all monies collected from donors for the event.

    “Prospective donors are hereby advised to stop all dealings with the suspended adviser,” Ikhilor said.

  • Oshiomhole backs Okpebholo, says it is a matter of decency for Obi to Inform authorities before visiting Edo

    Oshiomhole backs Okpebholo, says it is a matter of decency for Obi to Inform authorities before visiting Edo

    The lawmaker representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has supported Governor Monday Okpebholo for insisting that former presidential candidate, Peter Obi must seek security clearance before visiting Edo State.

    TheNewsGuru reports that Okpebholo had warned Obi against visiting the state without prior security clearance, linking a recent trip by the former presidential candidate to a security breach that allegedly resulted in the deaths of three people.

    Sharing his thoughts on the governor’s warning on Prime Time, an Arise Television programme, on Friday, Oshiomhole opined that it is a matter of decency and self-respect for Obi to notify Okpebholo ahead of his visit.

    He argued that it is important to inform authorities when personalities like Obi plan to visit a state.

    The former governor of Edo pointed out that the school in question, which Obi is expected to visit, is fully funded and maintained by the state government.

    “Let’s face it; the property of the Edo state government is entrusted in the hands of the Edo state governor. If anyone, myself included, goes to Enugu or Anambra when Obi was governor and I want to visit a government-owned facility, like a nursing institution, it is a matter of decency and self-respect to inform the authorities.

    “Peter Obi was my colleague, and we knew each other very well. I liked him then, and I still do, but politically, we don’t agree. I do not subscribe to his views on certain matters,” Oshiomhole said.

  • Police confirm killing of officer in suspected robbery attack in Edo

    Police confirm killing of officer in suspected robbery attack in Edo

    The Police Command in Edo has confirmed the killing of a police officer, Sgt Aminu Yusuf, reportedly shot dead by armed men while escorting an expatriate in Benin City.

    Spokesperson for the command, CSP Moses Yamu, disclosed that two suspects had been arrested in connection with the attack.

    According to him, a manhunt is underway to apprehend other fleeing suspects. The incident was said to occur on July 16 along First East Circular Road in Benin City.

    According to sources, Sgt Yusuf was escorting a vehicle belonging to the expatriate after a cash withdrawal from a bank when they were ambushed by four armed men.

    The attackers reportedly opened fire on the team, fatally wounding the officer and fleeing with his AK-47 rifle. He was immediately rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead by a doctor.

    Yamu said security operatives have since intensified efforts to track down the remaining suspects and recover the stolen weapon.