TheNewsGuru

Tag: Edo State

  • Gov Okpebholo gives only condition to welcome Peter Obi into Edo State

    Gov Okpebholo gives only condition to welcome Peter Obi into Edo State

    Governor Monday Okpebholo has disclosed that Edo State will only welcome Mr Peter Obi and all well-meaning Nigerians, provided appropriate security and procedural protocols are respected.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Governor Okpebholo made the disclosure in a statement released on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr Fred Itua.

    Recall Okpebholo had earlier at an event warned that Peter Obi must not enter Edo State without notifying the government, stating that the former Anambra governor’s safety could not be guaranteed otherwise.

    However, the State Government has claimed that various misinterpretations surrounded the recent remarks made by Okpebholo regarding the visit of Mr Obi to the State.

    The statement reads: “It is imperative to state clearly that the Governor did not issue any form of threat to Mr. Obi, but rather emphasized the need for high-profile individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, to notify and seek security clearance from the Governor before embarking on any public engagements within the State.

    “As the Chief Security Officer of Edo State, it is the Governor’s constitutional responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of all residents and visitors alike.

    “This duty includes ensuring that adequate security measures are put in place during high-profile visits or events that may attract large crowds or media attention. When such protocols are ignored, it creates serious security vulnerabilities, not only for the visitor but also for citizens who may be caught in avoidable threats.

    “Governor Okpebholo’s position is particularly relevant in light of the rising attacks and abductions of religious leaders, especially Catholic priests and Christian clerics.

    “Edo State has witnessed its share of these tragic incidents, including the abduction of seminarians and the killing of clergy in recent years. Public donations made to churches, hospitals, or other faith-based institutions, while noble in intent, must be approached with caution and in full consultation with the appropriate security channels, to avoid exposing these institutions and their leaders to further danger”.

    It reads further: “The Governor’s comments on the need for discretion in public giving are rooted in both security intelligence and moral responsibility.

    “The Holy Scripture reminds us that giving is best done in private, as Jesus admonished us in Matthew 6 : 2 – 4 that, “when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpet…but when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

    “In today’s volatile security environment, this wisdom cannot be overstated. Governor Okpebholo is not Peter Obi, who, as Governor of Anambra State, detained Nasir El-Rufai when he visited.

    “Furthermore, the Governor’s concerns should not be twisted for political mileage by individuals seeking to score cheap points. The State Government will not fold its arms and allow politically motivated activities to endanger lives. We expect leaders, no matter how highly placed, to align with the protocols and security realities of the areas they visit.

    “Governor Okpebholo is committed to a safe and inclusive Edo State for all. His administration is working tirelessly to address the insecurity it inherited, and his call for coordination and orderliness should be seen as a measure of responsible governance, not hostility.

    “The Edo State Government will continue to welcome all well-meaning Nigerians, provided appropriate security and procedural protocols are respected”.

  • Edo ex-commissioner reacts over Okpebholo’s threats on Peter Obi

    Edo ex-commissioner reacts over Okpebholo’s threats on Peter Obi

    Mr Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor, a former Edo Commissioner for Digital Economy, has apologised to Peter Obi and Nigerians over the recent threatening remarks made by Gov. Monday Okpebholo.

    Okpebholo reportedly gave the warning in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of the state on Friday,

    Okpebholo was quoted to have issued the threat, saying he could not guarantee the former presidential candidate’s safety in the state.

    He made the statement while receiving Hon. Marcus Onobun, former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly and a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) member representing Esan West/Igueben/Central in the House of Representatives.

    Onobun, who decamped to the All Progressives Congress (APC), was formally welcomed into the party on Friday.

    But in a statement issued on Saturday in Benin, Ifaluyi-Isibor described the alleged threat as reckless and embarrassing to Edo  people.

    According to him, the people of Edo are warm, hospitable, and tolerant, noting that they had never been known for issuing threats—even against political opponents or critics.

    Ifaluyi-Isibor condemned the governor’s comments, stating that Edo was a civilised, educated, and welcoming society.

    According to him, such conduct does not reflect the true character and values of the Edo people.

    “The recent comments by Governor Okpebholo warning Mr Obi against visiting Edo were widely viewed as reckless, embarrassing, and unbefitting of a public servant.

    “Let it be said clearly that is not who we are. We do not threaten guests, allies, or adversaries in Edo state. The Governor is not a true reflection of Edo people. His outburst does not define us.

    “Following the video’s circulation, I received numerous calls. My first reply: Governor Obaseki is no longer in office; this is a new Sheriff entirely,” he said

    He explained that Peter Obi, and indeed all Nigerians, had the constitutional right to visit or reside in any part of the country without seeking anyone’s permission.

    “Edo people genuinely admire Peter Obi. If he joined a birthday party on election day, that party would likely win in the governor’s polling unit.

    “Let’s overlook his lapse in judgment and forgive. Our culture and ancestors have always welcomed everyone. We remain a proud people rooted in tolerance, unity, and peace across all political affiliations.”

    According to him, while the state government increasingly resents criticism, I apologise in advance to anyone offended, please.

  • Edo: PDP clears aspirants for senate, House of Reps bye-elections

    Edo: PDP clears aspirants for senate, House of Reps bye-elections

    The Edo Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has screened and cleared aspirants for the July 21, primaries, ahead of the National Assembly by-elections in the state.

    Those cleared for the Edo Central Senatorial district ticket, are John Yakubu, Friday Itulah, and Joe Okojie, following a thorough screening process conducted by the party.

    For Ovia Federal Constituency, only one aspirant, Johnny Aikpitanyi, was screened and cleared as the party’s sole candidate for the House of Representatives bye-election.

    A statement by Chris Nehikhare, Publicity Secretary, Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, said the screening was conducted on Tuesday at the PDP State Secretariat, located at No. 20 Aiguobasimwin Str. GRA, Benin.

    Nehikhare noted that the five-man screening panel was appointed by the PDP National Working Committee and chaired by Prof. Okumoko Tubo Pearce, with Mr Chinomso Odoemelan as secretary.

    Other committee members include, Inemo Dede, Evelyn Promise, and David Omare, who all participated actively in the screening and clearance exercise.

    He noted that certificates of clearance were presented to the aspirants on Friday,  at the state party secretariat during an official presentation ceremony.

    According to the statement, Aikpitanyi appreciated members of the committee for their professionalism, diligence, and fairness throughout the screening process and final clearance exercise.

    He said, “I sincerely thank members of the screening committee for their professionalism, fairness, and diligence. With this clearance, we are prepared for the journey ahead in Ovia.”

    “I’m ready to fly the PDP flag. With strong grassroots support, we will win and deliver quality, purposeful representation to the good people of Ovia.

    “I am confident of victory. With community support, Ovia will shine again through focused grassroots development and become the envy of all”.

  • Kidnapped Chief Imam of Uromi regains freedom

    Kidnapped Chief Imam of Uromi regains freedom

    The Police Command in Edo has announced the release of the Chief Imam of Uromi, Sheikh Moritada Obhakhoboh, from kidnappers’ captivity.

    CSP Moses Yamu, the command’s Public Relations Officer in a statement released on Monday night, said that the release followed “intense and sustained pressure” on his abductors.

    Yamu said the cleric, who was kidnapped on July 7 in the Angle 80 area of Uromi, was released unharmed and had since been reunited with his family.

    He said the police operation was initiated immediately after the abduction was reported to the Uromi Divisional Headquarters on July 8.

    Yamu noted that tactical teams, in collaboration with members of a local vigilance group, were deployed to track down the assailants.

    He said the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the operatives involved in the exercise, assuring that investigations were ongoing to arrest the perpetrators.

    “No stone will be left unturned in identifying and apprehending those behind the kidnapping,” he said.

    He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to support ongoing operations against criminal elements in the state.

  • Don’t probe Obaseki – Wike tells Gov Okpebholo

    Don’t probe Obaseki – Wike tells Gov Okpebholo

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has advised Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo, against dissipating his energy and resources to probe his immediate predecessor,  Godwin Obaseki.

    Wike, who gave the advice during his visit to the state, also urged the governor to concentrate on the development of Edo.

    The minister said in a statement signed by his spokesman, Mr Lere Olayinka, that probing the former governor would achieve no meaningful results.

    Wike stressed that it was better for Okpebholo to deploy his time and the state’s resources towards achieving his developmental goals for Edo people.

    “If there is someone who would have encouraged Okpebholo to probe and prosecute Obaseki, that person should be me.

    “However, what I suffered in ensuring that he returned for a second term and how he paid me back is now in the past. We must pass through this process in life, move on for the development of Edo.

    “Therefore, don’t do it. I’m the one that should have told you to pursue this man because I know what I passed through.

    “If it were to be his power, you wouldn’t be here, but God has told him, ‘you don’t have it and I have given it to whom I want to give it to’” he said.

    The minister also apologised to Sen. Adams Oshiomhole, a former governor of the state, for humiliating him over Obaseki.

    Wike said: Leader, I know how pained you are and what you passed through; I know it was like a humiliation to you.

    “I was part of it because I humiliated you while supporting Obaseki. I apologised to you on national TV and i am still saying sorry for what I did to you.

    “Let Obaseki and his team carry their problems and go. Focus on the development of Edo and you will see what you will achieve at the end of the day”.

    Wike was in Edo to inaugurate the newly constructed Edo Line Terminal in Benin, which is the second phase of the Benin Central Bus Terminal.

    The event was, however, cancelled following the demise of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

  • Edo govt secures N1.2bn grant for Ambrose Alli University

    Edo govt secures N1.2bn grant for Ambrose Alli University

    Office of the Special Adviser to the Edo Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has secured a N1.2 billion education grant from OPay Digital Services for Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma.

    Ms Sally Suleiman, Special Adviser on SDGs to Gov. Monday Okpebholo disclosed this to NAN on Monday in Benin, during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) the government and Opay.

    The grant is part of OPay’s national scholarship initiative, a decade-long Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment aimed at supporting indigent students in 20 tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

    With the agreement, AAU becomes the newest beneficiary of the initiative that aims to give hope to students from low-income families in the state.

    The grant will be shared amongst the 20 lucky tertiary institutions in the country. According to Suleiman, this latest feat reflected the government’s commitment to inclusive education.

    “This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to SDG 4, which is ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

    “We are honoured that Edo has now joined this prestigious circle, ensuring that indigent students in Ambrose Alli University will benefit from this impactful programme.”

    She said that the MoU would feature the presentation of the first batch of scholarship awards to the university.

    Suleiman expressed appreciation to OPay, describing the partnership as a “major step forward in dismantling financial barriers to education in the state.”

    She also reaffirmed the state’s readiness to collaborate with private sector actors to accelerate the delivery of the UN SDGs.

    “We thank OPay for their partnership and trust, and we remain focus in bringing development closer to our people through meaningful and measurable action,” she said.

  • Gov Okpebholo orders security shake-up at Government House

    Gov Okpebholo orders security shake-up at Government House

    Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on Saturday ordered the redeployment of security personnel at the Government House following a controversial lockout incident on July 11.

    The order followed reports that journalists and APC supporters were barred from accessing the government house during the celebration of the governor’s Supreme Court victory in Benin.

    This was contained in a statement in Benin by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, on Saturday amid growing public outrage over the exclusion.

    The governor expressed deep regret over the incident, describing the lockout as unacceptable and entirely inconsistent with his leadership values and principles.

    He emphasised his commitment to open, inclusive governance, adding that he held the media and party supporters in the highest regard at all times.

    Okpebholo stated that the exclusion of guests and supporters was unauthorised and contradicted the intended spirit of the victory celebration event.

    The governor said he had constituted a small investigative committee to identify those responsible for the incident.

    He assured the public that all individuals found culpable would be disciplined, warning against any act that ridiculed or alienated the people.

    “This decision did not originate from me and does not reflect my values. I’ll never endorse actions that disrespect our supporters or journalists,” he said.

    The governor reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, unity, and public trust, stressing that his administration would always remain people-centered and accountable.

  • 12-year-old girl killed in police crossfire with fleeing kidnappers

    12-year-old girl killed in police crossfire with fleeing kidnappers

    The Police Command in Edo has confirmed the death of a 12-year-old girl during a gunfire exchange between security operatives and fleeing kidnappers.

    According to a statement by the police, the tragic incident happened along the Fugar-Agenebode road in Etsako East Local Government Area of the state.

    The command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday.

    According to Yamu, the tragic incident occurred on Friday evening when armed men, suspected to be kidnappers, ambushed commuters and blocked the busy highway at about 7:20 p.m.

    He said two persons were killed on the spot by the attackers, while several others were abducted and taken into the forest.

    Responding to a distress call, operatives of the police from Agenebode, in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters, launched a swift rescue operation.

    During the operation, a gun duel ensued between the kidnappers and the rescue team at Obe Hill, near the pipeline route leading to Ajaokuta, resulting in the fatal shooting of the young girl.

    “During the encounter, a gun duel ensued along Obe Hill by pipeline leading to Ajaokuta, the security team successfully rescued 14 kidnapped passengers alive.

    “Unfortunately, a 12-year-old girl was fatally shot by the fleeing kidnappers during the crossfire.

    “One female victim is still unaccounted for, and search efforts are ongoing to ensure her safe rescue,” he added.

    He quoted the Commissioner of Police in the state, Monday Agbonika, as commending the bravery of the joint security operatives.

    The commissioner reassured the public of the command’s commitment to restoring peace and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

    “The command extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and assures the general public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure justice is served,” he said.

  • Gunmen attack seminary in Edo, kill NSCDC officer, abduct 3 students

    Gunmen attack seminary in Edo, kill NSCDC officer, abduct 3 students

    An officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) was killed when gunmen attacked the Catholic Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary in Ivianokpodi, Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo.

    Three students of the seminary were also reportedly  abducted during the attack, which occurred at about 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday.

    Confirming the incident, the Director of Social Communications, Catholic Diocese of Auchi, Rev. Fr. Peter Egielewa, said this was the second time in 10 months that the school had come under attack.

    He said the diocese strongly condemned the incident and expressed deep concern over the repeated targeting of the catholic institution, its personnel, and facilities.

    “We are deeply saddened and condemn in the strongest terms this act of violence,” Egielewa said, describing the persistent attacks as troubling and unacceptable.

    “This is the second time in 10 months that the school has been attacked. Ten month ago, a priest was kidnapped.

    “And now three seminarians were abducted and a civil defense corps is killed, while a local vigilante sustained gun injuries.

    “We call on the government to protect the lives of all those who work in catholic institution and our diocese.

    “We hope the security agencies at the local, state and federal level to take up the responsibility on that, so our people can be in peace and safety,” Egielewa said.

  • Auchi Poly SUG election: No student killed – PRO

    Auchi Poly SUG election: No student killed – PRO

    The Management of Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi Edo, has said that the institution did not record any death during Saturday’s Student Union election.

    The Director, Public Relations Division of the institution, Dr Angela Egele, said this on Thursday at a news conference.

    Egele dispelled the claims that two students lost their lives during the exercise. She described the claim as false, misleading and unfounded.

    “The attention of the management of Auchi Polytechnic has been drawn to a statement credited to Mr Peter Obi, where he alleged on his X handle that two students died and several others injured during the election.

    “The management categorically states that these claims were false, misleading and completely unfounded.

    “The polytechnic management notes that it is quite disheartening that a notable public figure, like Mr Peter Obi, could make such public statements without proper verification of the information.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, no student was shot at or killed during the election, which was declared inconclusive due to observed irregularities,” Egele said.

    She also said that the video circulating through the social media, where students were running for their lives, were mostly doctored.

    She said that security agencies were on ground to monitor and ensure the safety of lives and property during the election.

    The PRO urged the general public to disregard the misinformation about the SUG election.

    She further said that the management of the institution remained committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for students and staff of the institution.