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Tag: Monday Okpebholo

  • VIDEO: Drama as Gov Okpebholo struggles with Edo 2025 budget figures

    VIDEO: Drama as Gov Okpebholo struggles with Edo 2025 budget figures

    Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on Tuesday presented N605.7 billion budget estimates to the Edo State House of Assembly for the 2025 fiscal year, representing 25 per cent increase from the 2024 budget.

    Presenting the budget christened “Budget of Renewed hope for a Rising Edo” to the Assembly in Benin, Okpebholo said capital expenditure would take N381 billion, representing 63 per cent while recurrent had N223 billion, representing 37 per cent.

    Okpebholo noted that his administration planned to make huge difference in the road sector with the appropriation of N162 billion to road construction across the state.

    He appropriated N48 billion for Education, while N500 million was appropriated to Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma as monthly subvention to ensure its revival.

    The governor also appropriated N63.9 billion to the health sector, N1.8 billion was set aside for the Health Insurance scheme, with N4.5 billion budgeted for Agriculture sector.

    He further stated that his administration recently purchased 20 patrol vehicles to assist the security personnel in their work and planned to purchase more in the coming year.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports presentation of the Edo State 2025 budget did not come without any drama as Governor Okpebholo struggled to reel out the budget figures during his speech.

    Meanwhile, receiving the budget estimates, Speaker of the Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku assured the governor of the house expeditious passage of  the budget.

    Agbebaku also assured of the house’s resolve to work with the governor for the good of Edo people.

  • Tribunal begins sitting on petitions filed against Okpebholo

    Tribunal begins sitting on petitions filed against Okpebholo

    The Edo State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal has began sitting in Benin and will hear seven (7) petitions challenging the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo in the September 21 poll.

    The petitions were submitted by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and six other political parties. The other parties according to the cause list are the Accord Party, Action Alliance, Social Democratic Party, Allied Peoples Movement, Action Democratic Party, and Zenith Labour Party.

    In his inaugural address, Justice Wilfred Kpochi, Chairman of the three-member panel canvassed for the cooperation of all parties in the case, particularly the legal representations.

    Kpochi lauded the calmness in the courtroom, but raised concerns on the influx of parties supporters into the premises.

    “We will like to crave for your cooperation. I can see this place is calm and hope it will continue like this However, I saw many people outside and wondered what it was all about.

    “On my part, we will say we will cooperate with you. You are senior lawyers. Do not shout at us and we will not shout at you either. If you notice any issue, draw our attention and we will listen,” he said.

    Other members of the tribunal are Justices K. B. Yusuf and A. A. Adewole

    Responding, Ken Mozia, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), leading the PDP legal team, and Onyechi Ikpeazu, SAN, leading the Okpebholo’s team, promised that the parties would be professional in their trade before the tribunal.

    They assured the tribunal that the supporters would be engaged so as to ensure the place was not rowdy or create commotion throughout the judicial exercise.

    Subsequently, the PDP case against the governor went into pre-hearing, where all parties adopted their exchanged written responses.

    The tribunal adjourned until Dec. 18 for hearing of preliminary motions in this case as well as adoption of addresses of the six others.

  • Gov Okpebholo gives Edo LG Chairmen ultimatum to submit financial statements

    Gov Okpebholo gives Edo LG Chairmen ultimatum to submit financial statements

    Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on Tuesday directed the 18 local government chairmen in the state to submit their statements of account from September 2023 to date within 48 hours.

    A statement by Fred Itua, the chief Press Secretary to the governor, instructed that the documents should be submitted to the Assets Verification Committee through the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).

    At a meeting with the chairmen, the governor emphasized the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability.

    Okpebholo, represented by the Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, assured the council chairmen of collaborative governance for the betterment of the state.

    The governor reiterated that the directive would enhance the committee’s ability to verify assets efficiently.

    According to the governor, I have listened keenly to the ALGON Chairman, I’m a leader of all and we are one family.

    The governor urged the chairmen to comply with the directive promptly to support the committee’s work.

  • Okpebholo swears in 3 judges ignored by Obaseki

    Okpebholo swears in 3 judges ignored by Obaseki

    Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on Monday swore in three High Court judges recommended by the National Judicial Council (NJC), but ignored by Godwin Obaseki’s administration.

    Recall that Obaseki ignored the three judges when he swore in five out of the eight recommended judges by NJC in May. The immediate past governor advanced no reason for his action.

    Okpebholo, in his address at the event in Benin, said the exercise was in fulfillment of the pledges made during his inaugural speech to look into the case and right the wrong of yesterday.

    “Eleven months after the recommendation of the NJC, only five of those recommended were sworn-in as judges by the immediate-past administration, leaving out three, even when they had all been cleared and recommended by the same NJC.

    “No one should be discriminated against, marginalised or hated for personal reasons, or on account of not having a godfather.

    “As judges of the state High Court, they are expected to uphold high standard of conduct, ensure fair dispute resolution, uphold rights of citizens, and bring culprits to justice.

    “During my swearing-in ceremony as Governor of Edo State on November 12, 2024, I acknowledged the critical role of the judiciary under the doctrine of separation of powers.

    “Today we are gathered here to strengthen that role for the judiciary. The National Judicial Council in June 2023 recommended eight persons for appointment as Judges of the Edo State High Court,” he said.

    The three judges are Maureen Osa, Okundamiya Godwin Jeff and Edoghogho Eboigbe. Responding on behalf of the trio, Osa applauded the governor for the opportunity given them to serve as judges in Edo. She applauded the governor for making their swearing-in a reality, just three weeks into office.

    The new judge prayed for a successful tenure for the governor. “We assure you that we will dispense justice without fear or favour,” she said.

  • Okpebholo reinstates sacked Ambrose Alli varsity staff

    Okpebholo reinstates sacked Ambrose Alli varsity staff

    Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has approved the immediate reinstatement of the staff members of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were disengaged from service in March 2023.

    The approval was announced on Monday via a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor.

    Recall that the staffers, who were majorly members of the institution’s branch of Academic Staff Union of the Universities (ASUU), were relieved of their appointment, following the agitation for payment of their outstanding salaries, amongst other entitlements.

    Ikhilor described the recall as Okpebholo’s significant step toward correcting the injustices of the past and upholding the principles of natural justice, equity and good conscience.

    “The government of Sen. Monday Okpebholo believes in the principle of natural justice, equity and good conscience, and will, therefore, not fail to correct any seeming injustice meted to on citizens of Edo State.

    “This reinstatement, therefore, is to demonstrate His Excellency’s avowed commitment and adherence to the rule of law in governance at all times,” Ikhilor said.

  • Edo PDP raises alarm over Okpebholo’s flyover

    Edo PDP raises alarm over Okpebholo’s flyover

    The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Caretaker Committee has called on the Edo State government to make public the procurement procedure for the proposed flyover at Ramat Park, Benin.

    Dr Tony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the Edo PDP Caretaker Committee, said this at a news conference on Tuesday in Benin.

    Aziegbemi alleged that the flyover recently flagged off by Governor Monday Okpebholo bypassed standard procurement procedures.

    He urged the government to disclose the project’s cost, timeline, and the process by which contractors were selected.

    “We are aware that the emergency overhead bridge at Ramat Park bypassed all standard procedures.

    “The project is a white elephant scheme to reward godfathers for subverting Edo people’s will during the gubernatorial election,” he said.

    The chairman accused the governor of dismantling governance structures inherited from his predecessor, claiming the state’s Procurement Act was disregarded.

    He criticized the delay in November salary payments despite the former administration left over N30 billion in the state’s coffers.

    “For eight years, the PDP administration paid salaries on or before the 25th of each month. Today, civil servants await November salaries despite the funds left behind,” Aziegbemi added.

    He also denounced the governor’s alleged attempt to disparage the EdoBEST programme, which he described as one of Africa’s most impactful education reforms.

    He credited the PDP-led administration for successfully rehabilitating over 340 schools across Edo’s senatorial districts.

    Reacting, Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, dismissed PDP’s allegations, stating the party was struggling to adjust to its opposition role.

    Itua accused the PDP of mismanaging resources, disrespecting traditional institutions, and distributing government assets to allies.

    “Within one week, the governor has addressed issues the PDP ignored for eight years. He banned touting in markets and illegal revenue collection,” Itua said.

    He highlighted the flyover bridge as a milestone for Edo State, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to addressing long-standing challenges.

    He warned that the public would soon learn the depth of the previous administration’s mismanagement.

    According to him, records show the PDP-government gave away nearly 500 government vehicles to cronies.

    “No blackmail will stop the recovery of Edo’s commonwealth,” he said.

  • Gov Okpebholo unveils 14-man panel to probe Obaseki

    Gov Okpebholo unveils 14-man panel to probe Obaseki

    Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has constituted a 14-man state Assets Verification Committee to probe the administration of his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki.

    A statement by the chief press secretary to the governor, Fred Itua on Sunday in Benin, said the committee would be inaugurated on Tuesday, Nov. 26.

    Itua listed the members to include Dr Ernest Umakhihe, Chairman, Anslem Ojezua- Deputy Chairman, Frank Edebor, Secretary, while Prince Kassim Afegbua, Patrick Ikhariale and Taiwo Akerele, are members.

    Others members are Patrick Idiake, Rasaq Bello-Osagie, Fredrick Unopah, Mrs. Abdallah Eugenia, Patrick Obahiagbon, Kenny Okojie, Mrs Lyndsey Tes-Sorae and Abass Braimoh.

    The statement said that the committee became imperative to set the state on the path of development and accountable leadership.

    “Despite repeated calls for a more holistic database of the assets and liabilities of the previous administration, the Godwin Obaseki-led government came up with very scanty and limited assets and liabilities of the state.

    “In line with the governor’s campaign promise to ensure probity, accountability and transparency in government, and to deepen the governance process, a committee made up of respected persons is to look into the books,” the statement said.

  • Edo govt declares over 200 official vehicles missing

    Edo govt declares over 200 official vehicles missing

    Chairman of the Committee set up by Gov. Monday Okpebholo to recover government vehicles, Mr Kelly Okungbowa, on Friday declared over 200 vehicles missing.

    He stated that the committee had within 24 hours recovered three vehicles in a private residence in Benin.

    Okungbowa, who spoke to newsmen on the success of the committee’s assignment, said within 24 hours three vehicles including one Hilux van and two Toyota Hiace buses have been recovered.

    He disclosed that in one of the Toyota Hiace buses, the committee recovered some palliatives which were meant to have been distributed to Edo people.

    The chairman added that the palliatives included bags of garri and rice.

    He appealed for more information from members of the public, adding that it was the information earlier obtained that led to the recovery of the three vehicles.

    Okungbowa assured whistleblowers that a handsome reward awaits them provided their information were correct and verifiable.

    “Yesterday, we were inaugurated, we promised to follow the law to carry out the mandate of Mr Governor which is to recover all missing government vehicles in private hands.

    ”We are glad to inform the people of Edo State that we have recorded success within 24 hours of our inauguration. I am glad to announce to you that we have recovered one Hilux and two Toyota Hiace buses in private custody.

    “We assure Edo people and the State Government that we are going to do the job to the best of our ability. We will make sure we recover all the stolen vehicles.

    “This is not private property but the property of Edo citizens and it is not good for a private individual to steal government property,” he said.

    He appealed to former government officials and other citizens holding back government vehicles to return them within 48 hours.

  • Gov Okpebholo probes Obaseki’s recruitment into Edo civil service

    Gov Okpebholo probes Obaseki’s recruitment into Edo civil service

    Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on Friday suspended recruitment into the state’s Civil Service until further notice.

    The governor also ordered review of all recruitments carried out by former Gov. Godwin Obaseki between May and November 2024.

    A statement by the Secretary to State Government (SSG), Musa  Ikhilor, accused heads of various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of carrying out clandestine recruitments into the state’s Civil Service.

    “The governor is in receipt of report of the clandestine activities being perpetuated by some Commissions, Boards, Parastatals and Agencies of government in the state.

    “Preliminary investigation reveals that these bodies have continued to issue back dated letters of employment to their cronies without due process.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, this administration believes in the principle of fairness and equity, which expects that all employment exercise should be merit based, competitive and accessible to all Edo indigenes.

    “In light of the foregoing and in order to arrest this ugly trend, the governor has directed the immediate suspension of all employment processes.

    “As well as the review of all appointments carried out since May, 2024 by Commissions, Boards, Parastatals and Agencies of Government.

    “Heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies are to note and comply with the above directive,” the statement said.

  • Gov Okpebholo dissolves governing councils of tertiary institutions in Edo State

    Gov Okpebholo dissolves governing councils of tertiary institutions in Edo State

    Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State on Wednesday approved the dissolution of the Governing Councils of all state-owned tertiary institutions.

    The Governor also approved the disengagement of the Management Staff of Edo Specialist Hospital and Stella Obasanjo Hospital, Benin City with immediate effect.

    The dissolutions are contained in a Government Special Announcement” dated Nov. 20 by the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor.

    “It is hereby announced for the information of the General Public that the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the dissolution of the Governing Councils of all State owned Tertiary Institutions with immediate effect.

    “Accordingly, all affected members of the Governing Councils of all State owned Tertiary Institutions are to handover all Government properties in their possession to their respective Heads of the Institutions.

    “It is hereby announced for the information of the General Public that the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the disengagement of the Management Staff of Edo Specialist Hospital and Stella Obasanjo Hospital, Benin City with immediate effect.

    “In view of the above, the Management Staff of the aforementioned hospitals are to handover all Government properties in their possession to the most senior officer in their various Institutions,” Ikhilor announced.