*Edo Exco was only in Lagos for annual retreat – Source*

*_… no conditions given to Shaibu_*

Investigation has revealed that Edo State Executive Council has not relocated to Lagos contrary to a rumour making the rounds but rather the exco only went for its annual retreat, with the State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, commissioners and other heads of MDAs in attendance.

According to a close source, the retreat which was held at Lakowe Lakes Golf Resort and Country Estate in the outskirts of Lagos, is a yearly ritual by the state government for strategic sessions with different invited resource persons to brainstorm on the programmes of the government and set agenda for the coming year, with guidelines and dateline for implementation, among others.

The source further noted that the Council meeting held on Monday was due to speculation that Wednesday would be declared a Public Holiday, debunking insinuation that it was to prevent the Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, from attending the meeting.

This is also as the source said that there is no iota of truth in Obaseki giving condition to Shaibu to forget his ambition to contest 2024 governorship primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Shaibu notified of relocation to new office last week

The Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, was informed of his relocation to a new office last week, fresh details have shown.

A letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie, dated September 15, 2023, and sent to the Office of the Deputy Governor on the same day has emerged.

The deputy governor was last week notified by the letter that his office accommodation had been moved to No. 7, Dennis Osadebe Avenue, GRA.

According to the SSG, "I write to inform you that His Excellency, the Governor has approved the relocation of your office accommodation to No. 7, Dennis Osadebe Avenue, GRA, Benin City.

"You are therefore requested to ensure your compliance in line with Mr. Governor's approval, please."

The Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, on Monday, attempted to force his way into the personal office of the Governor, along with his security aides.

The Deputy Governor has arrived the Office of the Governor in the early hours of Monday morning, on Dennis Osadebey Avenue and tried to confront the governor. Shaibu was however told that the governor was not yet in the office but he insisted on gaining access into the Governor's personal office.

All entreaties by the security operatives to him to kindly go back and call the governor if he wanted to see his principal were rebuffed. Instead, he kept pushing the gate, causing a scene.

CAF Confederation Cup: Edo readies as Bendel Insurance hosts Morocco’s RS Berkane Sept 16

Bendel Insurance FC of Benin, Edo State is set for another thrilling continental showdown as they advance in the CAF Confederation Cup with a first-leg clash against Renaissance Sportive de Berkane (RSB) of Morocco in the Second Qualifying Round of the competition.

The Edo-based team will host the 2021/2022 CAF Confederation Cup winners for a place in the group stage, on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, the Edo State capital.

The Benin Arsenals who are Nigeria’s Federation Cup holders, secured their spot in the Second Round of the CAF Confederations Cup after a remarkable first and second-leg performance against Aso Chlef of Algeria, who are the 2022/23 Algerian Cup winners.

The team, which has remained unbeaten this season, has continued to enjoy the support and motivation from the state government which has rejuvenated the indomitable spirit for which the Benin Arsenals have always been known.

The Edo State Government under the leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki, has made huge investments in developing and sustaining the football club in particular and the sports sector in general, with investments that have revitalised sporting activities and elevated the state-owned club from erstwhile relegation into the lofty heights of visibility, which the team now enjoys across the nation and the African continent.

Speaking ahead of the September 16 encounter, the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Andrew Okungbowa, said the State is ready to receive the visitors, expressing confidence that the home team will come out victorious after 90 minutes.

According to him, “All is set as our darling team, Bendel Insurance FC, hosts Renaissance Sportive de Berkane (RSB) of Morocco in the first leg of the 2nd Qualifying Round of the CAF Confederation Cup.

“The Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, with its state-of-the-art facilities and impeccable pitch conditions, has been meticulously prepared for this great encounter, and our football-loving fans and supporters are ready and eager, as always, to fill the 12, 000 capacity stadium with their cheers and support for the players, creating an electrifying atmosphere that will certainly inspire the home team to victory.

“It is going to be another carnival-like and festival Saturday in Benin, as the State Governor has given us a matching order to mobilise Edo people just as we did in the first leg last month, to cheer our darling Insurance to victory. We have already set machinery in place to mobilise our people and to ensure that the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium is full to capacity on match game with fans and supporters from across the State as we are going to provide free transportation from 12 different locations in the city to take people to the stadium and return them after the game.”

Fuel Subsidy Removal: Over 23,500 passengers benefit from Obaseki’s free transport service in 24 hours

Over 23,500 residents of Edo State have benefited from the free transport service of the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, in the first 24 hours of the commencement of the scheme, aimed at cushioning the effect of the fuel subsidy removal by the Federal Government on the people of the State.

The governor had yesterday flagged off the free bus service for passengers on all routes operated by the state-owned Edo City Transport Limited (ECTS), with the pledge that his government will sustain efforts to reduce the hardship inflicted on the people by the subsidy removal, ensuring improved wellbeing and welfare for the people.

The free transport scheme, which is for initial two months, operates between 6am and 7pm daily, covering all ECTS operational routes, both intra-city and inter-city routes, including Auchi - Igarra - Ibillo–Ososo; Uzebba–Ikhin – Otuo, and Abudu-Ubiaja, Abudu-Urhonigbe and Ewohirin to Ewatto.

The intra-city routes are Ramat–Kingsquare; New Benin–Kingsquare; Kingsquare – Ekenwan Road; Kingsquare–Airport Road; Kingsquare–Sapele Road and Kingsquare – Adesuwa, Kingsquare–Ogida; New Benin – Upper Mission; Kingsquare–Ugbowo; Kingsquare–Agbor Road; Kingsquare–Upper Sokponba; New Benin – Ugbowo and New Benin–Aduwawa.

Briefing journalists in Benin City, the Edo State capital, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Edo State Transport Authority, Edugie Agbonlahor, said the state-owned transport company has witnessed a surge in commuters as a result of the free bus service, noting that about 23,652 passengers have benefitted from the service in the last 24 hours.

According to her, “We are glad with the positive impact being made through the free bus service of the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy removal on Edo people. We have continued to witness a surge in passengers for our inter-city and intra-city routes, recording a total of 23, 652 passengers, including 23,143 intra-city and 509 inter-city commuters in the first 24 hours after the flag off of the scheme.

“We know that these numbers will continue to skyrocket following the success recorded as we intensify efforts to expand the programme after the initial two-month period.”

She added, “You can see the joy on the faces of the people who are being relieved of the burden of high cost of transportation as a result of the rise in the cost of petrol occasioned by the fuel subsidy removal by the Federal Government. We are grateful to the Governor for always prioritising the welfare of the people, putting them at the forefront of every of his government’s programmes and policies.”

It is not in doubt that Obaseki opened up the space for popular participation in the PDP

Since the Governor took guard as the Leader of the Party in Edo, there has been a significant turnaround in the way the Party does its business; and as we approach 2024, a period of great significance in the life of our great Party and State, members of the PDP will have the opportunity to chose who picks its ticket, this is a radical deviation from the unpopular practice of imposition and ticket racketeering that for long, stagnated and derailed the Party until Obaseki's emergence

Let it be known that whoever holds the PDP ticket in 2024 becomes the Governor of Edo State

While Obaseki leads the PDP to victory from the front, the thousands of members of the Party in the State are ready, determined, willing with burning passion to rally behind the Governor to retain the Party's occupation of Osadebey Avenue; Obaseki will also be providing leadership in all ramifications

Amid the challenges associated with Party politics, Obaseki has changed the face of the Party, reinvented its ideological background, reinforced its foundations in Edo, refired membership commitment and restored the dignity that the PDP in Edo is prominent for, hence the Party is now one to beat in the State; and as Obaseki continue to pathfind new and reformed ways to further strengthen the Party at the Edo homefront, 2024 presents before us an extraordinary opportunity to redefine and reestablish the winning character of the People's Democratic Party under Obaseki's ebullient leadership

Indeed, Obaseki is a leader, a pathfinder, knowing the way, showing the way and walking the way

PDP...Power!!!

The era of some unscrupulous politicians sitting in the comfort of their room dictating the affairs of the Edo State has long come to an end. Gov Godwin Obaseki has the right to choose his successor rather than allowing a few people to mortgage the state ticket for selfish interest

The era of some unscrupulous politicians sitting in the comfort of the room dictating the affairs of the Edo State has long come to an end. Gov Godwin Obaseki has the right to choose his successor rather than allowing a few people to mortgage the state ticket for selfish interest

*Alaghodaro 2023: Edo inaugurates Planning C’ttee of summit’s 7th edition, unveils theme*

_*...to showcase opportunities for State’s prosperity created by Obaseki in 7 years*_

The Chairman, Alaghodaro Economic Summit Limited/Gte, Mr. Asue Ighodalo, has said the seventh edition of the Alaghodaro Summit will be used to showcase the innovative policies and gains of reforms implemented by the State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, to create prosperity for the State and improve the livelihoods of Edo people.

Ighodalo said this at the inauguration of the sub-committees for the 2023 Alaghodaro Summit, held in Government House, Benin City.

The Chairman, who was represented by a Board member and Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., said, “It is with great delight that I welcome you all to the inauguration ceremony of the planning committee for Alaghodaro 2023: The Edo Summit.

According to him: “The Alaghodaro Summit, since its first edition in 2017, has become a veritable tool to share ideas and discuss initiatives that have delivered positive impact to the people of Edo State and opened the State to investment from the rest of the world.

“This year’s summit is themed; The Edo Story: Creating Shared Opportunities into the Future and being the Governor’s last summit in office, it will showcase the innovative policies, gains of reforms, plans, programmes and projects designed and implemented by this administration, through targeted investment, partnership and collaborative efforts and innovations across critical sectors of the State.”

He further noted, “In constituting this planning committee, we were very careful and deliberate in selecting from among the brightest and the best of our people and we are delighted that you decided to answer this call to serve the people of Edo State. I urge members of the Committee to be meticulous and diligent in the discharge of this assignment and to ensure compliance with the terms of reference. This is a serious task, and history beckons on you not to disappoint our people.

“It is now my singular honour to formally inaugurate the planning committee for the 2023 Alaghodaro: The Edo Summit. I wish members of the planning committee a resounding success in the discharge of their responsibilities and the hosting of the summit.”

In her remarks, the Chairperson, Local Organising Committee and Executive Secretary, Alaghodaro Economic Summit Limited/Gte, Eire Ifueko Alufohai, said the summit will hold between November 8 and 12, adding, “On Wednesday, November 8, there will be a Press Conference and the Edo Women Conference, a programme, which is being worked on. On Thursday, November 9, 2023, there will be the Ancient City Tour which will end with a cocktail at the Secretariat.

“Friday, November 10 will be the actual day of the Summit and a Muslim prayer. In the evening of the same day, there will be an Award Night/Dinner. On Saturday, November 11, there will be the Governor’s Cup, a Golf Tournament. This will be followed by a Food Fair - the Edo Market. In the evening of the same day, there will be a Youth Summit. The following day, Sunday, November 12, there will be a Thanksgiving.”

The Sub-committees include Sponsorship and Finance; Hospitality, Logistics, Protocol and Security; Programme and Content; Communication and Branding; Ancient City Tour; Alaghodaro Secretariat, among others.

Members of the Sponsorship & Finance include Accountant General EDSG, Toju Onaiwu, Samuel Abada, Edgar Ogiamen and Osarumwense Ogbeide-lhama. Members of the Programme and Content committee are Onoise Onoghinon, Nnanna Ude, Chris Nehikhare, Osayamen Mokogwu, Osahon Ojomo and Aiseosa Osaghae.

Members of the Communication and Branding Committee include: Crusoe Osagie, Andrew Okungbowa and Innocent Omoaka.

Those in the Hospitality, Logistics, Protocol and Security committee are Isoken Omo, Kingsley Uwagbale, Director of Protocol, Government House, Chief Security Officer, Government House, Elvis Osagiobare, Usifo David, and Moses Idenala.

Members of the Ancient City Tour committee are: Ethan Uzamere, Uyi Malaka, Crusoe Osagie, Osayamen Mokogwu, Yuwa Aladeselu, Imudia Iyamu, Izegaegbe Joy, Steve Omorogbe and John McDonald.

Members of the Alaghodaro Secretariat are: Aiseosa Osaghae, Chimaobim Okeke, Kamara Egbuchua, Magaret Ohiafi, and Linda Emale.

The Exhibition Coordinators are: Yamen Mokogwu and Hope Osung, while the Event Coordinator is Yuwa Aladeselu.

Governor Godwin Obaseki is doing great by releasing busses..The cost of transportation is high and this singular action will go a long way to help the people especially those coming in and out of distance locations

It is better for the Governor to make mention of it than to emback on a project that will lead to crisis between federal government and the state

I know that Governor Godwin Obaseki has plan to fix federal road but I urge the federal government to allow him and other governors to fix the roads rather than allowing the road to dilapidate

Court To Rule on Edo Deputy Governor’s Suit to Stop alleged impeachment

A Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled judgment for September 7 in the suit by Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu seeking to stop his impeachment by the House of Assembly.

In a sitting on August 23, Justice Ahmed Mohamed fixed after entertaining final submissions from lawyers to parties in the suit, marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/2027/2023.

In the suit, Shaibu accused Governor Godwin Obaseki of plotting to, among others, prevent him from performing his official responsibilities and instigate the Assembly to impeach him in order to frustrate his ambition to contest next year’s governorship election in the state.

Listed with Obaseki as defendants are the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Speaker of the Assembly and the Chief Judge of Edo State.

Shaibu’s lawyer, George Ibrahim, stated that while the defendants are contending that the deputy governor’s case is hinged solely on impeachment, they failed to address the allegation that Obaseki was planning to prevent his client from further carrying out his constitutional duties.

“They have not denied the fact that the gate between the offices of the Deputy Governor and the Governor has been locked,” Ibrahim said.

Traditional rulers in Edo South back Obaseki’s implementation of 1979 Law

… new regime ‘ll enhance good governance, end rural-urban migration, says gov_

….’ll improve security, sense of belonging at grassroots - Enigie_

Traditional rulers from Edo South Senatorial District have unanimously declared their backing for the implementation of a 1979 Law on local council administration, commending the State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, for the implementation of the new regime where all traditional rulers in the 18 local government areas of the State will receive monthly allowances to administer their domains.

The traditional rulers made their position known on Thursday when they paid a ‘Thank You’ visit to the governor at the Government House, Benin City.

They expressed their appreciation to the governor for what they described as a bold step taken by him to address the age-long lingering problem.

This is as they disclosed their unflinching backing of the governor’s action, noting that this development will not only enhance good governance at the grassroots level but also give a sense of belonging and authority to the traditional rulers to effectively administer their various domains and put in check their people.

The Enogie (Duke) of Dukedom Evbuobanosa, Professor Gregory Iduorobo Akenzua, who led the delegation while commending the governor for the new regime, applauded him for his government’s developmental strides across the State.

According to him, “For a number of years, we have observed a portion of the local government law of Edo State that affects Enigie and wondered for a while why it was not being implemented.

“But by your recent declaration, you have given a monumental opportunity for Enigie in Edo South to participate actively in the governance of the State and we are grateful.

“We thank you for your courage, wisdom, and determination to write anything that is not right since you assumed the reign of government in Edo State. We thank you very much as we are very appreciative of the monumental strides in development at all levels that we have experienced in your time.”

He added, “This is why we are here to show our appreciation and pledge our loyalty to you and thank you and your team of determined public officers. We thank you on behalf of the people of Edo South Senatorial District who have not felt the impact of traditional governance effectively for some time.”

In his response, the governor, who thanked the Enigie for the visit, said he will continue to work with the traditional institution in the State to ensure widespread development and growth across the State.

Obaseki said, "We took the decision in response to your letter you wrote to me last year. We looked at the issues critically and felt the reasons in the letter were valid particularly in terms of the situation in Nigeria today.

“You asked me to implement a section of the Edo State Traditional Rulers Law which by law, I have no choice but to do and that law stipulates that every local government should have its own traditional council.

“The reason why that decision was taken and enacted many years ago is that the traditional authorities in every jurisdiction should assist the government in enforcing law and order and ensuring development within the area. The law applies to the whole of the State, including the North, Central and South Senatorial Districts.”

He continued: “A very close look at the implementation of the law, you can see the advantages that North and Central have had as a result of full implementation of the law, which has allowed full participation by the traditional authorities in the administration of each local government.

“By implementing the law in Edo South Senatorial District, we now expect a much faster rate of development than we have seen in the past. We know some of you in the past have assisted local government authorities in areas like security, education, and welfare which you did on your own.

“You have assisted in the past to support vigilante groups, improving security in your area. I thank the Enogie of Ehor who worked tirelessly with us to deal with kidnapping at Ehor and Igieduma axis a few years ago. Working with him made us understand the issues more and we were able to checkmate their activities in that area.”

Obaseki charged, “In your meetings which must be regular, you must work closely with local government authorities and ensure every land is policed, especially the forest areas as we don't want our forest to be used as camps for criminals and bandits.”

The governor further thanked the traditional rulers for collaborating with his administration to fight human trafficking and illegal migration in Edo State, adding, “We must also take the issues of education very seriously as we have noticed that we don’t have as many schools as we should have in your jurisdiction. People are not willing to live and teach in those areas as a lot of migration to Benin City.

“In our 30-year development plan, one of the things we will put in our development plan is how to make our areas more comfortable to enable us to reduce the rural-urban migration. I thank you for your support and collaboration in our fight against human trafficking and irregular migration.

“We need to reverse migration as Benin City can’t take everybody. You need to make your area attractive by providing infrastructure and services for people to live comfortably.”

Reaffirming his government’s commitment to the welfare and well-being of Edo people, Obaseki said the government is sustaining efforts to tackle poverty and improve the livelihood of the people.

He stated, “A register for the poor and vulnerable was compiled in 2019 with 314,000 households and 1.2 million people in your domain. Verify the register as we work with you to put in place a system to disburse money on a monthly basis for these people to enable them to take the pressure off you because they come to you for help.”

Recall that about two weeks ago, the Edo State Government Executive Council approved the implementation of a 1979 Law on local council administration, which translates to a new regime where all traditional rulers in the 18 local government areas of the state will receive monthly allowances to administer their domains.

In a statement to that effect, Secretary to the Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie, Esq. noted, "The Council resolved that there would be a traditional council in each local government area across the state’s 18 local councils.

“In the law, the Oba of Benin remains the permanent chairman of the Edo State Traditional Council of Obas and Chiefs and also the permanent chairman of the Benin Traditional Council.

“The Benin Traditional Council is the umbrella body of Edo South Traditional Council.

“The budget and funding of the Benin Traditional Council will be completely independent of the financing which goes to all other traditional councils of the various local government areas in the State."

PHOTO CAPTION

L-R (front row): Enogie of Egbaen-Siluko, Iduozee Ogiegbean; Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq.; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, and Enogie of Evbuobanosa, Prof Gregory Akenzua, during a 'Thank You' visit to the Governor by the traditional rulers in Edo South Senatorial District, at the Government House in Benin City, on Thursday, 24 August 2023.

Oba of Benin remains uncontestable head of all traditional rulers and chiefs in Edo State

_… Monarch’s subvention has been shored up, not reduced as is being peddled by mischief makers_

The Edo State Government has restated that the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, remains the uncontestable head of all the traditional rulers and chiefs in Edo State.

In a statement, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Osa Nehikhare maintained that the Oba of Benin’s position as the permanent head of all the traditional rulers in Edo State remains sacrosanct in the State Government’s implementation of the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of 1979, especially as relates to section 45 of the edict.

The statement reads: “The Edo State Government restates that the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, remains the uncontestable head of all the traditional rulers and chiefs in Edo State.

“The government notes that the subvention to the monarch has increased since Governor Godwin Obaseki came into office and has not been reduced whatsoever, as is being falsely peddled by mischief makers.

“Rather, the funding increased since the commencement of the administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki because the Value Added Tax (VAT) and the excess crude components have been included.

“The Oba of Benin’s position as the permanent head of all the traditional rulers in Edo State remains sacrosanct in the State Government’s implementation of the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of 1979, especially as relates to section 45 of the edict.”

Nehikhare continued: “Recently, in the wake of some disagreement among some traditional rulers in the State, the traditional rulers agreed with the State Government to temporarily warehouse the fund in a central pool until the administrative issues were addressed. This was between April 2023 and July 2023.

“It is important to state here that against the false information that the fund was withheld from July 2022 to July 2023, all statutory payment was paid until April 2023, when it was agreed for the funds to be warehoused till date for the resolution of outstanding issues.

“These administrative issues have now been resolved by the Edo State Government and the palace delegation led by the Iyase of Benin, Chief Sam Igbe, and this pool of funds is now being disbursed to the various traditional rulers across the State as well as the Benin Traditional Council.

“The total amount now being disbursed to all the traditional rulers in the State is N1,316,746,764.13. Of this amount, N639,269,245.26, goes to the traditional rulers in Edo South Senatorial District.

“While the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) gets N319,634,622.63, the balance of N255,707,698.0 is distributed to the traditional councils in the seven local governments in the senatorial district, while N63,926,924.52 left is reserved for any emergency in the councils.”

He further stated, “In the same vein, Edo North traditional rulers get N377,642,592.6 while Edo Central traditional rulers receive N299,834,926.27

“It is therefore shocking to hear mischief makers trying to stir a phantom crisis between the Edo State Government and the palace of the revered monarch, with many of them making completely false statements and spreading misinformation on social media.”

The Commissioner charged, “We call on Edo people to be wary of misinformation and know that everything is being done according to the law and the accounts of the traditional rulers are being credited.”

He added, “In all of these, we want to by this medium restate that His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, the Oba of Benin, remains permanent chairman of the Edo State Council of Traditional Rulers and Chiefs as well as the permanent chairman of Benin Traditional Council (BTC).

“Funding to the revered palace has been shored up and is not in any way depleted as these purveyors of falsehood have gone out to portray in the public domain.

“With this full implementation of the law, the government expects members of local government traditional councils to interface with their subjects and promote security, intelligence gathering and community development within their domains.”

“The government will continue to work towards harmonious living in the State, ensuring that all stakeholders are carried along in its development strides,” Nehikhare reassured.

He is a man of repute when it comes to tradition and political matters..He has spoken well and better

Oba of Benin remains uncontestable head of all traditional rulers and chiefs in Edo State

… Monarch’s subvention has been shored up, not reduced as is being peddled by mischief makers

The Edo State Government restates that the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, remains the uncontestable head of all the traditional rulers and chiefs in Edo State.

The government notes that the subvention to the monarch has increased since Governor Godwin Obaseki came into office and has not been reduced whatsoever, as is being falsely peddled by mischief makers.

Rather, the funding increased since the commencement of the administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki because the Value Added Tax (VAT) and the excess crude components have been included.

The Oba of Benin’s position as the permanent head of all the traditional rulers in Edo State remains sacrosanct in the State Government’s implementation of the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of 1979, especially as relates to section 45 of the edict.

Recently, in the wake of some disagreement among some traditional rulers in the State, the traditional rulers agreed with the State Government to temporarily warehouse the fund in a central pool until the administrative issues were addressed. This was between April 2023 and July 2023.

It is important to state here that against the false information that the fund was withheld from July 2022 to July 2023, all statutory payment was paid until April 2023, when it was agreed for the funds to be warehoused till date for the resolution of outstanding issues.

These administrative issues have now been resolved by the Edo State Government and the palace delegation led by the Iyase of Benin, Chief Sam Igbe, and this pool of funds is now being disbursed to the various traditional rulers across the State as well as the Benin Traditional Council.

The total amount now being disbursed to all the traditional rulers in the State is N1,316,746,764.13. Of this amount.

Any politician who blame others for their misfortune is only wasting time ,Mr Eweka should know that Governor Godwin Obaseki is not the kind of person he thinks . A governor with class and charisma cannot be accused of electoral fraud

Congratulations to all the House of Assembly members and to our leader Governor Godwin Obasek. 2024 is safe and secure under your watch

Governor Godwin Obaseki has always proved to be a man with wisdom and knowledge..He has made education in Edo State simple and easy to learn through Edo best program and adequate infrastructural facilities.Kudos to our leader

Nice boost and development to education in Edo State through our amiable governor ,Godwin Obaseki

Ministry of Education, Edo State.

PRESS RELEASE
April 6, 2023.

Edo State Government Set To Host The Maiden Edition Of The Edo Education Week

Since 2018, the government of Edo State has demonstrated its commitment to the education agenda through various programmes, initiatives, reforms, and partnerships with private sector and international organizations. It is in view of this that the Ministry of Education has put together an Education Week.

The Edo Education Week themed “Education for Alaghodaro; Investing in Quality Education and Access for our Children and Youth” is a host of hybrid events that bring together stakeholders in the education sector across Edo State, Nigeria, the African Continent, and the global education community.

The primary purpose of the education week is to demonstrate Edo state government’s commitment to education and showcase the government’s ongoing reforms and initiatives in the sector. In addition, the events will serve to galvanize and encourage other state governments in Nigeria to commit and take similar actions towards improving teaching, learning, learning outcomes, and the education sectors in the various states.

The maiden edition of the Edo Education Week is scheduled to hold from Wednesday 26th April to Sunday 30th April, 2023, at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, Benin City.

The event will feature Book and Arts Festival, School visits, Plenary and Launch of the Edo State Learning Agenda, Education Awards and Recognition Gala, Governor’s Cup, Parents’ Summit and Educhef Competition Finale.

Bendel insurance is a team to be proud of..Winning is certain

Loudable and great project for Edo People

BENIN/AUCHI EXPRESSWAY: A call to Powers At the Top


By Edo State PDP Social Media Force Team

It is no longer news that the ever busy Benin Auchi expressway has been a regular talk when the rainy season sets in..The road which connects South West ,North Central and South South has been abondoned by the federal government, leaving the road users vulnerable to long gridlock and sometimes armed robbery.

The call on Edo State Government to fix the road is out of her constitutional responsibility. It is a huge project that will gulp nothing more than 50 billion naira which the state cannot shoulder.

We have some of the indigenes of the state occupying juicy and exotic positions at the top echelon but cannot influence the federal government presence to the project. Some of them use the road to there houses and constituencies and yet they are calling out the state government to do the magic..Are there any federal project going on within the state? Absolutely no. So it is pointless for the state government to embark on the Benin Auchi expressway project that is highly capital intensive.

Edo has enough gas to supply Benin Republic power for 100 years – Duport Energy Park MD

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Duport Midstream Company Limited, Dr. Akintoye Akindele, has said that its Energy Park in Edo State has the capacity to supply Benin Republic gas to meet its energy needs for the next 100 years.

Mr. Akindele said this during a visit by a delegation from Benin Republic, which comprise the Technical Assistant to the Minister of Energy, Republic of Benin, Badarou Raoufou; Marcus Fabrice; Dahome Edouard and Tokoudasba Eneric and other officials of government, in Egbokor, Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State.

The MD expressed appreciation to the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led state government for supporting the project and creating the right environment for businesses to thrive in the state, which informed the company’s decision to invest in the state.

He added that apart from gas and refining, the company generates power and can store and restore data.

He noted that the facility in Orhionmwon has access to multiple gas fields that can be linked with pipelines for backup and scalability.

On his part, the Edo State Commissioner for Mining and Energy, Engr. Ethan Uzamere, said aside from gas and oil, Edo State is blessed with abundant mineral resources, adding that the development of the Benin River Port and the Edo Inland Dry Port would accelerate the movement of minerals and other commodities from the state to other countries in Africa and beyond.

According to Uzamere, “As you may be aware, Edo State is also big in mining. We have a high supply of bitumen just to mention a few. Because we are a logistic hub, that is why we are developing the Benin River Port which will help in the transportation of minerals and other commodities. So, we are looking forward to seeing you doing business in Edo State apart from the gas you came for.”

It is a loudable project to easy transportation by air for people in Edo North ,Kogi and other parts..Moreso ,it will open up investment to the area and create opportunities to every one around the axis

AfCFTA: Edo receives delegation from Benin Republic, explore investment opportunities in natural gas

BY: EDO STATE PDP SOCIAL MEDIA FORCE TEAM

The Edo State Government has received a delegation from the government of Benin Republic who are in the state to explore investment opportunities in the state’s natural gas, minerals and other sectors, as opportunities in the Africa Continental Free Trade Area blossoms.

The delegation led by Benin Republic Special Adviser on Energy, Edouard Dahome, arrived at Duport Energy Park, in Egbokor, Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, alongside representatives of its Nigerian partners, Genesis Energy Group and Kalaora Gas Marketing Company.

The energy park, operated by Duport Mainstream Company Limited was established on the back of reforms by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration to reposition Edo as Nigeria’s leading industrial and manufacturing hub, and houses a 10,000-bpd modular refinery, 60-million-scf gas processing plant, 10-million-scf compressed natural gas (CNG) plant, 30,000-MT refined product terminal, and a 20MW embedded power plant.

The state also plays host to another refinery with a 6000bpd plant, positioning it as a frontier for continental trade in natural gas and petrochemicals. The State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, continues to advance reforms to transform the state into an investment haven.

Receiving the delegation, The Edo State Commissioner for Energy and Mining, Ethan Uzamere, said apart from the business-friendly policies of the state government which now makes the state attractive to investors, there are large deposits of natural resources for investment by the government of Benin Republic

He added, “Apart from the gas and oil, Edo State is blessed with abundant mineral resources. As the world is going into clean energy, Edo State just recently found that we have a large deposit of lithium and a high supply of bitumen, just to mention a few. We are a logistics hub which is one of the reasons we are developing our seaport which will help in the transportation of minerals and other commodities.”

Speaking on the purpose of the visit, Edouard Dahome stated that the on-site assessment became important to finalize investment in gas needed to power the energy sector of Benin Republic.

Dahome noted, “A few years ago, we decided that we will no longer accept the situation that we were in, which is that all the energy which we consumed was coming from abroad, either Nigeria or Ghana. So, we decided to be in a position to generate the energy that we are using.

“We built the first plant which has started generating today and we are talking about the need for gas for this plant which is about 40 megawatts as well as the other projects. Our objective is to become self-sufficient in terms of energy generation.”

Also, the Managing Director of Edo State Investment Promotion Office, ESIPO, Mr. Kelvin Uwaibi added that the state is open to receiving investments from public, private, and international investors, encouraging the government of Benin Republic to take advantage of the investment opportunities in the state.

He said, “Edo State is very attractive because it has the largest onshore gas reserve in the country. We are also a logistics hub which gives it access to markets all over Nigeria. Apart from the River Port, we are developing a dry port in Benin City.

“Most of the energy infrastructure comes through Edo State and as we speak, we are generating over 1000 megawatts of power that goes into the national grid and that makes us an energy hub. Also, with companies like Duport being here, it's an opportunity to expand our platforms.”

On his part, the Chairman of Duport Midstream Energy Park, Akindele Akintoye appreciated the state government for the support, noting that the company, apart from gas and refining, generates power and stores and restores data.

L-R: Chairman of Duport Midstream Energy Park, Akindele Akintoye; Managing Director of Edo State Investment Promotion Office, ESIPO, Mr. Kelvin Uwaibi; Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Osa Nehikhare, and Commissioner for Energy and Mining, Ethan Uzamere, during a visit to the Duport Energy Park, in Egbokor, Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, by a delegation from Benin Republic.

APC, struggling to swallow their crushing defeat in Edo House of Assembly Election

A response to John Mayaki's diatribe on Obaseki

By Efe Igbinosa

APC, struggling with defeat

I have to admit that reading John's essay was both laborious and tortious, because he found it difficult to weave his essay into a readable prose. However, I will attempt briefly to address some of the concorted allegations raised in his essay of misery. This is important, so that the uninformed would not run away with error. I had earlier written a short piece yesterday night, where I clearly stated that APC and its minions are trying to muster everything within them howbeit, unsuccessfully to impugn on the success that governor Obaseki and his candidates recorded in this election. APC were completely unprepared for what they are witnessing now. I sympathize with them though, because it's difficult to prepare for a victory party, only for Edo people to serve them "breakfast" very early in the day.

*Obaseki’s democratic credentials are firmly intact*

First, everyone knows that governor Obaseki is one of the most civilized governors in Nigeria. So, anyone who is even remotely capable of imagining that governor Obaseki could interfere with a democratic process like an election, must have his head properly examined. "Edo no be Lagos" where they reort to killing, maiming, voter suppression, intimidation and all underhand tactics in the book to steal the people's mandate. This House of Assembly election has now entered into the record books in Edo, as the first since 1999 where more than two political parties have all won seats in the House. The government in power usually clears the entire seats in the state by any means possible. For the first time, three political parties now have seats in the House. Governor Obaseki deserves kudos not sticks for allowing a level playing field, regardless of the senatorial district. Edo people will not give heed to those that chorus rigging where they lost and hail democracy where they won. Same election! Such double standard!

*Easy decision for Edo people*

To majority of Edo people, it was easy for them to renew their faith in Obaseki and the PDP. He is the governor that has put their money into the best judicious use. With Governor Obaseki, Edo has now been repositioned to attract some of the best investments into the state, through policies with strong business model, data and analytics that explains how investors will succeed in Edo. Statisense, a company that makes sense of numbers, convert raw data to insights that are used for better board room decision making, recently ranked Edo as one of the seven states in Nigeria where people have valid group life insurance. This alone shows that life expectancy has peaked in Edo. With him at the saddle, Edo state is now thriving and ticking all the indices for measuring growth. Our human development index stands at 0.627. The highest in the history of Edo state. He has quietly transformed all the sectors of our economy, which has given him plaudits both home and abroad. There is no governor who has performed better than Governor Godwin Obaseki and this is what he has been rewarded for in this HOA election and APC and their godfathers hate to hear this.

Efe Igbinosa, is local boy, writing fom Okada.

Obaseki’s House of Assembly Victory, is driving APC crazy--Efe Igbinosa

Over the last few hours, the lameduck propaganda arm of the APC has churned out several spurious news just to discredit Governor Obaseki’s HOA victory. Despite what the naysayers and the supposed political Maradona have said and done, PDP, under the leadership of Governor Obaseki is already firmly poised to take the majority seats in the house, Come May 2023.

It is this sterling record of the governor that APC are determined to darken at all cost. It is driving them crazy because it has finally put to bed the demystification of their tin god, Oshiomhole, who thought he was still popular, but never knew Edo people took him for a clown and joked with him in market places.

No matter the number of propaganda the tired and clueless APC media arm throws at us in the coming days, we would continue to use them as a ladder. Our ascendancy will never be matched by this bitter little devils.

*Obaseki is on the Rise again!!!*

This is true leadership