Obaseki’s education reforms improving learning outcomes, preparing Edo children for future

The Executive Chairman of Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (Edo SUBEB), Mrs. Ozavize Salami has said reforms in the State’s basic education sector by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led state government are improving learning outcomes and preparing children in the State for global competitiveness.

Speaking to journalists in Benin City, the Edo State capital, the Edo SUBEB chair said the government has prioritized investment in the education sector with a focus on basic education to accelerate foundational literacy and numeracy and adequately equip every child in the state for the future.

She said, “When this administration came in 2017, we noticed that the education sector was in need of urgent revamp. In a nutshell, we noticed that children were significantly underperforming academically, teachers needed more encouragement and support with modern tools and techniques, schools were not being properly managed; there was no community ownership, the government did not have the required data needed to make critical decisions, policies, and support interventions.

“The government then introduced the Edo BEST programme with a focus on using the latest technology and pedagogies in ensuring improved learning outcomes. The state has trained over 16,000 teachers from 2017 till date and has inducted all primary and junior secondary schools in the state into the EdoBEST programme. To this end, the state operates three categories of programmes; Primary, Progressive and JSS. The progressive model captures schools in extremely hard-to-reach areas and riverine communities.

“In addition, 3,000 EdoSTAR fellows were recruited with a special focus on hard-to-reach communities to deepen the learning outcomes in rural areas. This has also helped to improve ownership in the schools’ host communities.”

Salami further noted, “Our ultimate goal is to domesticate EdoBEST. Also, we aim to consistently achieve, at the minimum, 95 percent attendance of teachers, head teachers and pupils/students in all our schools. While I know we are on the right path to achieving this, overall success for us will be not just the implementation of an education transformation throughout the entire educational system, from basic education to senior school, technical colleges and tertiary institutions, but the turnover from implementation and provision of highly-skilled children that can compete in the global workforce.”

Edo to enact law for sustainable oil palm estate devt, others

The Edo State Government has said that bills to ensure adherence to sustainable practices in the development of oil palm estates are being considered at the Edo State House of Assembly.

The bill is coming on the heels of an elaborate initiative to develop oil palm estates across the State in collaboration with Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) giants, De United Foods Limited (DuFil) and Flour Mills of Nigeria, among others, who are investing in the agricultural sector and building food processing plants in the State.

Acting Team Lead, Edo State Oil Palm Programme (ESOPP), Mr. Churchill Oboh, in an interview with journalists, said the State is transitioning to sustainable oil palm practices, which is embedded in the ESOPP scheme.

According to him, “Today, through the sustainable programme, all oil palm companies are mandated to comply with the Round-Table on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) Standard which includes, preserving biodiversity, protecting forests and peatlands, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, respect for workers’ rights and safe working conditions and land rights among others.

“As we speak, there is a bill before the House of Assembly, which will legally back these sustainable practices in the sector.

“Additionally, the State has fully adopted the Free Prior and Informed Consent in engaging stakeholders prior to any activity or investment in the State. I make bold to mention that the ESOPP programme is the game changer and will rejuvenate the oil palm subsector in the country with about 70,000 hectares so far allocated for production and about 40,000 hectares to go as phase two.”

He added, “You may be conversant with the gestation period of oil palm as such, the dividends in terms of yield from the production will be felt in about three years from today. This is because of the different activities that our investors need to carry out prior to commencement of planting activities.”

Obaseki swears in Justice Okungbowa as Edo Chief Judge, urges increased efforts to decongest correctional facilities

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on Friday, swore in Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa as the Chief Judge of Edo State, urging the new judicial helmsman to provide leadership in proffering solution to the problem of decongested correctional facilities in the State.

Obaseki during the swearing-in ceremony held at the Government House, in Benin City, urged Justice Okungbowa to fast-track the setting up of mobile Courts, embark on visits to correctional Centers, and expedite trials, among other steps to decongest the correctional facilities and provide justice for those awaiting trials for years.

Others at the event are the Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu; Secretary to Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq.; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Osaigbovo Iyoha; Edo State Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa Esq.; Deputy Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly, Hon. Maria Edeko and the Edo PDP Chairman, Anthony Aziegbemi, amongst others.

Commending the judiciary for collaborating with the state government, Obaseki said, "This relationship has enabled us to create the right and conducive environment for the transformation of our State into a leading sub-national government on the Continent.

“This cooperation especially with the Judiciary has guaranteed the success of our reforms and that we maintain law and order and respect the rule of law in Edo State because without the rule of law, development will never occur. These have been provided by a thriving Judiciary.”

He added, “The Judicial system in Edo State has benefited from years of serious, spirited and sincere efforts to improve the processes of justice administration, ensuring the prerequisite infrastructure and manpower are available to facilitate timely delivery of Justice to all.”

On decongesting correctional facilities in the State, the governor said, “The Constitutional amendment has paved the way to end the menace of congested correctional facilities and endless wait for trials.

“I urge the new Chief Judge to take advantage of the development and provide leadership in resolving this challenge of prison congestion which has become a national embarrassment and crisis. We would like you to provide direction for us in the development of correctional facilities in Edo State.

“I have allocated 100 hectares of land in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of the State for a new State Correctional facility as the design is ready. We can't proceed to award the contract to build without seeking clarification, assistance and support from you.

“We believe that the correctional facility will set the template and example of what State Correctional facilities should look like when it's completed under your tenure. I urge you to fast track the setting up of mobile courts to visit correctional centers and conduct institute trials to decongest the correctional facilities and provide justice for those awaiting trials for years.”

He continued: “An investment to boost the capacity of our Judges to deliver judgement with the aid of technology has been firmly rooted. This will enhance a new charge in the Judiciary as it will improve the turnaround time in the administration of justice as Edo people are assured of better and more efficient service delivery.

“I enjoin you to sustain the laudable reforms which were started by your predecessor in different areas, particularly in terms of human capacity development of the Judiciary and improved work processes.

“As an Executive, we will continue to invest in your infrastructure. We are going to commence the second phase of Judges’ Quarters and recreational facilities before the end of the year in Benin City and also rebuild your facilities in the other two senatorial districts as soon as we have the resources to do so.”

He reassured: “We will continue to count on the Judiciary as we advance reforms to maintain law and order and make Edo a safe haven for investment and sane society where everyone can live life to the fullest.”

In his response, Okungbowa promised to work with the state government to ensure law and order in the State and improve justice delivery.

PHOTO CAPTION

DSC_01

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), with the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Iyobosa Okungbowa, during the swearing-in of the Chief Judge, at the Government House, in Benin City, on Friday, July 14, 2023.

Benin Port: Edo PDP hails Obaseki on emergence of preferred bidder, Mota Engil Africa

The Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has applauded the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on the emergence of a preferred bidder for the development of the Benin Port, noting that the project stands as a remarkable legacy that will transform the economic landscape of not only Benin City but the state and the entire region.

In a statement, the chairman of the Edo PDP, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, said the remarkable achievement is a testament to the governor’s vision, sterling leadership, and unwavering commitment to the development of Edo State.

Aziegbemi said, “I am delighted on behalf of the leadership and members of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to extend our warmest congratulations to you and your administration on the successful emergence of Mota Engil Africa as the preferred bidder for the construction of the historical and prestigious Benin Port. This remarkable achievement is a testament to your vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the development of our dear state.

“The Benin Port Project stands as a remarkable legacy that will undoubtedly transform the economic landscape of not only Benin City but the state and the entire region. As the preferred bidder, Mota Engil Africa brings to the table their expertise, innovation, and global experience in delivering world-class infrastructure projects. Their involvement in this venture is a clear indication of your dedication to partnering with the best in the industry to ensure the success of this monumental project.”

The statement further reads: “The construction of the Benin Port will not only enhance the trade potential of Edo State but will also create numerous job opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and attract local and international investors.

“This significant milestone reiterates your administration's commitment to improving the livelihoods of the people of Edo State and leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.”

The Edo PDP chair added, “Once again, congratulations on this extraordinary achievement as you have broken the 75 years’ jinx. I eagerly look forward to witnessing the transformational impact that the Benin Port will have on the local and national economy, and the prosperity it will bring to Edo people. Best wishes for the continued success of our administration.”

World Bank, FG commend Obaseki’s strides in education, as Edo reels gains of reforms

The World Bank and the Federal Government has commended the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki for his administration’s giant strides in the state’s education sector, noting that ongoing reforms by the government have continued to improve learning outcomes and quality of education in the State.

Representative of the World Bank, Martin De Simone gave the commendation at the Edo Education Week with the theme, “Education for Alaghodaro: Investing in quality education and access for our children," held at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, in Benin City, Edo State.

De Simone said the Governor has continued to demonstrate the political will and commitment to strengthen and revamp the sector, leading in the gains so far recorded in the sector that have earned the government global recognition.

According to him, “The political leadership, commitment and will is the most important in any educational reforms and the Edo State Government has demonstrated that to deserve the partnership of the World Bank. The governor has done well in the educational sector of the State.”

While assuring the relentless collaboration and support of the World Bank, De Simone urged the government to step up efforts to ensure the sustainability of the reforms.

On his part, the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu hailed the state government’s commitment to improving the education sector, ensuring a world-class system to improve access to quality education for all Edo children.

The Minister, represented by the Director of Basic Education, Federal Ministry of Education, Dr. Mrs. Olatunji Davis, said, “Education is one of the most important investments a country can make in its future. It’s a powerful agent of change which improves health, livelihoods, contributes to social stability, and drives long-term economic growth. The return on investment in education is very high. Hence, there must be no compromise on quality.

"Our education challenge is an open secret. Out of the 258 million out-of-school children worldwide and an estimated 62 million in Sub-Saharan Africa, Nigeria is said to account for 12.4 percent of the out-of-school children in Sub-Saharan Africa.

"The 2018 National Personnel Audit estimated 10.5 million children, aged 5 to 14, were not in school, a figure that has been further exacerbated by increased learning poverty caused by the closure of schools and non-return of children to school following the global COVID-19 pandemic.”

The Minister added, "I commend the Edo State Government for these giant strides in the State. The Federal Ministry of Education shall continue to support the Edo State Government, and in particular, the Ministry of Education to deliver on these worthy outcomes geared towards the benefits of the Nigerian child.

"It’s my hope that this gathering will give insight into the investment challenges and opportunities for education in Edo State and Nigeria as a whole. I desire that this event will ultimately serve to galvanize and encourage other state governments in Nigeria, yet to do so, to commit and take similar action towards improving access to quality education in their States.”

Earlier, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, noted that “at this education week, we will be showcasing the progress made so far in the last six years and reviewing our roadmap for the future. We will end today's programme with the launch of the learning agenda.”

Dignitaries present at the occasion include Consular General of India, Chandramouli Kern; Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Prof. Lilian Salami; Vice-Chancellor, Edo University, Uzairue, Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor, and Lagos State Commissioner for Education, Folashade Adefisayo.

Others are Chairman, Benin Port Project, Engr. Greg Ogbeifun; former Edo State Head of Service and Chairman, Edo State Civil Service Commission, Princess Ekiuwa Inneh, and the Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, Edo State Chapter, Comrade Odion Olaye, amongst others.
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Edo recommits to grassroots sports devt, inaugurates secondary schools’ games organizing c’ttee

…to groom 10,000 new athletes in 5 years[b][/b]

The Edo State Government, on Tuesday, inaugurated the state’s Secondary School Games Committee in line with the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration’s commitment to grassroots sports development.

The 12-man committee is headed by the Chairman, Edo State Sports Commission, Yussuf Alli with the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Joan Osa-Oviawe (co-chairperson) and Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, and Commissioner for Youth and Humanitarian Affairs, Andrew Emwanta as members.

Other members of the committee are Commissioner for Health, Prof. Obehi Akoria; Permanent Secretary, Edo State Sports Commission, Mrs. Sabina Chikere; Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Dankwara; Chairman SUBEB, Mrs. Ozavize Salami; Dr. Kweku Tandoh; Mr. Osawe Osagie; Dr. Emmanuel Igbinosa and Barr. Osayaba Osarenren.

Inaugurating the Committee, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comr. Philip Shaibu, charged the team to be diligent and committed to their duty and not betray the trust reposed on them by the government and people of Edo State.

He said, “You’re aware of the mandate of the state governor to bring sports back to its native land, Edo State, and produce 10,000 athletes in 5 years so that those issues that are associated with backwardness as far as sports are concerned in Nigeria are written off.

“The governor has charged us that we must produce more athletes that will not just set but break records and that is the only way we can go to tournaments, both national and international.

“When Nigeria was Nigeria, winning laurels, most of the people that were representing this country were Edo indigenes. Sadly, Edo State also contributed to where we are today in the country in terms of sports because the state went to sleep for two to three decades and stopped producing athletes that will represent our country."

Shaibu added "Today, we go to a tournament, no hope of winning any medal, and our sons and daughters born abroad are the ones representing our country in sports tournaments. What happened to our indigenous boys and girls? What happened to our grassroots sports development? This is the country we have found ourselves in, where our local players cannot meet up to the challenge.

“We have, in Edo State, decided not to lament but to recreate the engine room of sports in Nigeria, revamp the sporting architecture and activities in Edo State."

Speaking on the link between sports and education, the deputy governor added, "We discovered that sports and education should be married together. It enhances our mental stability, and physical well-being and at the same time, helps to exhibit the God-given talents and skills we have.”

He further noted, “The governor has mandated us to develop sports, merging and making sure education is in the forefront to provide second office and broader perspectives for our teeming young sports boys and girls. So, we must all put our hands on deck.

“We are very clear on what we want to do, to make Edo State continue to produce athletes for other states and countries who are not able to do what we want to do.”

“The Edo State Government has invested a lot in physical infrastructure (sport), second to none in this country, and the only way we can maintain these facilities is by injecting life into them, starting with merging games/sports with education,” he noted.

PHOTO CAPTION

L-R: Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu; Chairman, Edo State Sports Commission, Yussuf Alli; Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare; Commissioner for Health, Prof. Obehi Akoria, and Ministry of Youths and Humanitarian Affairs, Barr. Andrew Emwanta, during the inauguration of Edo State’s Secondary School Games Committee, at the Government House, in Benin City, on Tuesday, April 25, 2023.

World Malaria Day: Obaseki urges increased efforts to enhance deployment of new tools, expand access to services for endemic population

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has called for increased global effort for the prevention and treatment of malaria, which is responsible for the loss of over 600,000 lives yearly, ensuring better funding for research and development, deployment of new tools and expanding access to services for the most-at-risk population.

Obaseki made the call in commemoration of 2023 World Malaria Day, with the theme, “Time to deliver zero malaria: invest, innovate, implement.” The World Malaria Day is marked every April 25, by the World Health Organisation (WHO), to highlight the need for continued investment and sustained political commitment to malaria prevention and control.

The governor, who acknowledged the incredible progress made in reducing the global burden of the disease, noted that despite the success so far recorded, millions of people, especially women and children in sub-Saharan Africa and other endemic regions remain susceptible to malaria as they still lack the services needed to prevent, detect and treat the disease.

According to Obaseki, “This year’s World Malaria Day presents us with yet another opportunity to strengthen efforts and partnerships to reduce the global burden of the malaria disease, one of the world’s oldest and deadliest diseases estimated to have claimed over 600, 000 lives annually across the globe.

“While we recognize the significant progress made in malaria elimination and eradication, it is imperative to acknowledge that more work needs to be done if the 2030 zero-malaria target must be achieved.

“We must step up efforts and collaborations to expand access to services and enhance the deployment of new tools for the detection, treatment, and prevention of malaria, including innovative diagnostics, medicines, vaccines, vector control products, and improved mechanisms for surveillance and response, especially for the most-at-risk population.”

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening the health system, the governor added that his government has embarked on interventions, including the distribution of treated mosquito nets, advocacy, and others to ensure that the people are properly equipped to fight malaria and other diseases.

PENCOM scores Edo high on implementation of Contributory Pension Scheme

…lists state among top 9 states that remitted employees, employers’ pensions in 2022


Edo State has been ranked among the top 9 States that remitted employees' and employers' pensions in 2022 by the National Pension Commission (PENCOM)

The report by PENCOM assessed the status of implementation of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) in states across Nigeria as at December 21, 2022.

The top performing States, according to PENCOM, are Edo, Anambra, Benue, Delta, Ekiti and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

Others are Kaduna, Lagos, Ondo and Osun States.

On Edo, PENCOM said the Edo State Government enacted the Edo State Contributory Pension Scheme Law in 2010 and that implementation of the CPS commenced in February 2017 with the amendment law passed in 2017

According to PENCOM, “The State Government established the Edo State Pension Bureau to oversee the implementation of the CPS in Edo State. It has registered the State's employees with Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs). However, three (3) self-funded agencies and eighteen (18) LGCs are yet to commence registration of their employees.

“The State government is remitting 10% employer and 8% employee pension contributions and has conducted an actuarial valuation to determine the employee's accrued pension rights. It has a valid Group Life Insurance Policy.”

The commission added that the State has opened a Retirement Benefits Bond Redemptions Fund Account with a PFA and is funding the Accrued Pension Rights of the State public service employees.

Obaseki flags off 3km Temboga Road, assures on new city devt project in Ikpoba-Okha

...gov says road project to be ready in 12 months

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has flagged off construction work on the 3km Temboga Road in the Ikpoba Hill axis of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the State, to decongest traffic in the area.

The governor, while flagging off the road reconstruction project, said his government has concluded plans for the development of a 70-hectare new city in Ikpoba-Okha LGA of the State.

Obaseki urged the residents to disregard lies and falsehoods peddled by detractors and enemies of development to discredit his government’s performance in the last six years, reassuring that his government will not be distracted but focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to Edo people.

“I don't like to flag off or commission projects but have been forced to do so, as those living in our communities know and see the work we do, but we have to change strategy to let those who don't live in those environments and communities see and be informed of our developmental achievements in the State,” the governor said

He further noted, “This axis is one of those experiencing rapid population growth. In the evening, when I see the amount of traffic going to Ikpoba slope, I am concerned and as a government, we have been working on how to solve the traffic problems we have in Benin City and some other cities in Edo State.

“The reconstruction of Temboga Road is very important for traffic control as it can help take traffic from Ikpoba Hill to Mission Road, creating other routes and easing traffic in Ikpoba slope. It will help us decongest traffic on Ikpoba slope.”

According to the governor, "We are working on other projects. We are in talks with the Nigerian Army and have released the land that was given to them during the Civil War which is about 70 hectares and intends to build a new city in Oregbeni. As soon as we finish work in Emotan Gardens, we will move to Oregbeni. We anticipate an increase in population here as such, it is important to build more infrastructure, particularly roads for those that will be living here.

“I have also told the contractor that there must be streetlights on this road when it’s reconstructed to guarantee security and safety at night. I have spoken with the contractor that I want to commission this road within 12 months. They have promised that by this time next year, we would be back to commission this road.”

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Roads and Bridges, Engr. Osikhena Ojior, assured speedy completion of the project, noting, "We will have three appropriately-sized concrete culverts to carry the flood water from the right-hand side to the left and the width of the road is approximately nine meters.”

In his response, Elder Festus Omoriyekemwen, who spoke on behalf of the Utah Ne-Urekpoki Community, hailed the governor’s developmental strides across the state, adding, “We thank you for giving us light on our streets. Before now, the Upper Mission extension was usually very dark at night, as well as the Ikpoba slope axis. All these areas, among others, are now well illuminated with the ongoing light-up project across the State.”

PHOTO CAPTION

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Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), with the Odionwere of Uteh Community (left), Chief Egbobamien Victor, during the flag-off of construction work on the 3km Temboga Road in the Ikpoba Hill axis of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the State.

Conference of political parties hails Obaseki’s devt strides, endorses PDP candidates for March 18 polls

The Edo State’s chapter of the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP), an umbrella of political parties in Edo State, after careful consideration and review, has endorsed the candidates of the PDP in the Saturday, March 18 House of Assembly elections.

Our decision to endorse the PDP candidates is based on the remarkable achievements of Governor Godwin Obaseki in various sectors, including health, energy, agriculture, education, and infrastructure, among others.

The governor's programmes and projects across the state have continued to bring significant improvements to the lives of our people, hence the need to support him by voting for those that will only contribute to the government’s drive for progress and development in our state, rather than those on a mission to cause crisis and chaos.

Our endorsement of the PDP candidates reflects our commitment to advancing the interests of our state and ensuring that our people are represented by capable and visionary leaders. We are confident that electing the PDP candidates into the House will ensure that the governor sustains ongoing projects and reforms to improve the livelihoods of the people and ensure economic prosperity for the state.

We urge all members of the CNPP and voters across the state to come out en masse on Saturday, March 18 2023 to vote for candidates of the PDP for quality representation at the Edo State House of Assembly.

Comrade Roy Oribhabor,
Chairman, Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP),
Edo State


*Conference of political parties hails Obaseki’s devt strides, endorses PDP candidates for March 18 polls*

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has thrown its weight behind the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Saturday, March 18 House of Assembly elections, citing the unprecedented performance of the State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, across various sectors of the state, including health, infrastructure, education, agriculture, among others.

The umbrella body of political parties in the state expressed confidence that electing the PDP candidates into the House will ensure the governor sustains ongoing projects and reforms to improve the livelihoods of the people and ensure economic prosperity for the state.

In a statement jointly signed by its chairman, Comrade Roy Oribhabor and secretary, Mr. Civic Momodu, the Edo State’s chapter of the CNPP, urged members of the group and Edo voters to come out en masse to vote for candidates of the PDP to support the governor’s transformational drive in the state.

According to the group, from the welfare of workers and security of lives and property, through education and healthcare, to infrastructure and industrialization, the governor has, in the last six years, performed exceedingly well and deserves the support of all Edo people to sustain these achievements.

The statement reads: “The Edo State’s chapter of the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP), an umbrella of political parties in Edo State, after careful consideration and review, has endorsed the candidates of the PDP in the upcoming House of Assembly elections.

“Our decision to endorse the PDP candidates is based on the remarkable achievements of Governor Godwin Obaseki in various sectors, including health, energy, agriculture, education, and infrastructure, among others. The governor's programmes and projects across the state have continued to bring significant improvements to the lives of our people, hence the need to support him by voting for those that will only contribute to the government’s drive for progress and development in our state, rather than those on a mission to cause crisis and chaos.”

Oribhabor further noted, “Our endorsement of the PDP candidates reflects our commitment to advancing the interests of our state and ensuring that our people are represented by capable and visionary leaders. We urge all members of the CNPP and voters across the state to come out en masse on Saturday, March 18 2023 to vote for candidates of the PDP for quality representation at the Edo State House of Assembly.”

March 9, 2023

Press Statement

Oshiomhole, the proprietor, enabler of land-grabbers in Edo must be stopped at the polls

Before the coming of Governor Godwin Obaseki in 2016, Edo State was a mafia state, held captive by criminal gangs. These gangs ruled with maximum force and profiteered from inflicting pain and suffering on the masses.

They went around different communities and dispossessed people of their landed property with the backing of the state apparatus. This system was superintended by former Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, who was the then governor.

Oshiomhole kept and enabled these criminals because they served his interest. During the period from 2008 to 2016, which can be described as the dark ages in Edo’s modern history, land owners could not sleep with both eyes closed because they were at the mercy of Community Development Association (CDA) overlords, who maimed, killed and dispossessed innocent Edo citizens of their landed property with the backing of the state apparatus.

Oshiomhole is best described as the proprietor and enabler of land-grabbing in Edo State. During his administration, not only did Oshiomhole enable the trend, he used it as a means to service his infantry brigade,’ a collection of retrograde band of anarchists who, popularly known today as Lions and Tigers, acted as enforcers and executioners for the former governor.

The appetite for violence and coveting other peoples’ money grew so much that they went very militant against all classes of persons in State to enforce their reign of terror. Everyone lived in danger.

With the coming of Governor Godwin Obaseki, a concerted effort was made to dislodge this non-state actors, with a series of painstaking reforms which have now ensured a sanitised land management system that is transparent, fast and reliable, and embraced by all well-meaning citizens of Edo State.

This new system of land management is today implemented through the Edo State Geographic Information Service (EDOGIS) and many Edo citizens can testify that not only are they able to register and access Certificate-of-Occupancy (C-of-O) for their landed property and transact business with it, but it is done at a reduced cost and in record time.

The episode with Obazagbon/Ogheghe community was a firm action to repossess government land that had acquired since 2017 for a new town project. Some land grabbers had swarm in to sell portions of the land to unsuspecting members of the public thinking that it was business as usual. Government had issued announcements overtime warning people to steer clear of the area, but many did not heed the warnings.

Complaints from those affected are being accessed by the relevant agencies in government and anyone with legitimate claims to the land will be duly compensated. The process is clear and all necessary information is in the public domain.

However, Oshiomhole’s pretence to be fighting for these persons is as half-hearted as it is deceptive. It is his ultimate plan to unseat the governor and send his Lions and Tigers after Edo innocent Edo people. He is plotting for a return to the dark ages.

It is on this note that we sound a note of warning that hooliganism has been banished in Edo State and will not be allowed to return. All the efforts Oshiomhole and his lackeys are making to hoodwink the people and cajole them into getting back into government through the backdoor will be resisted by the people through the ballot on the Saturday, March 18, 2023.

Dr. Tony Aziegbemi
Chairman
PDP Edo State

Rumour of screening exercise for pensioners false, says Edo govt

The Edo State Government has dismissed rumours that the government is conducting a screening exercise for pensioners in the state.

In a statement, the Functioning Permanent Secretary/Chairman, Edo State Pension Bureau, Abbe Osaro Washington, said the news is false and should be disregarded.

He said, “The attention of the Edo State Government has been drawn to rumours making the rounds that the government is embarking on a screening exercise for pensioners in the state. The news is false and should be disregarded.

“The state government recently carried out a screening exercise for pensioners in the state which is still very much up to date, hence there is no need for a fresh screening now.”

Washington added, “Pensioners and members of the general public are urged to disregard the false story and go about their normal businesses.”

Hearther:
Edo people will rise in Obaseki’s defense, foil Oshiomhole’s plan for impeachment

The Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie, has said the recent statement by the former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole on the fate of Governor Godwin Obaseki in the Edo State House of Assembly polls exposes Oshiomhole’s insidious plan to oust Governor Obaseki through impeachment.

In a statement, Osagie expressed confidence that Edo people, as they did in 2020, will again rise in defense of the governor at the polls on Saturday, March 11, and vote massively for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), electing a House controlled by the PDP.

The governor’s aide said, “The recent statement by the former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole on the fate of Governor Godwin Obaseki in the Edo State House of Assembly polls exposes his insidious plan to oust the current governor through impeachment.

“We are, however, confident that, like it happened in 2020 when Edo people stood with the governor despite the bullying and intimidation by Oshiomhole and his paymasters, Edo people will again rise in defense of the governor at the polls on Saturday, March 11; vote massively for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and elect a House controlled by the PDP.

“Obaseki has never placed his confidence in any man or godfather. He has placed his confidence in God and the people.”

He further noted, “It is also curious that it is Oshiomhole who has come forward with the agenda of the APC and not any of the candidates. One wonders if Oshiomhole will be a member of the Edo State House of Assembly after the polls. This, obviously, points to who and where the instructions will be issued if the party’s candidates are mistakenly elected into the House.

“Edo people can see the handwriting on the wall and we are certain that they will troop out en masse to vote for the candidates of the PDP in the election to sustain the developmental strides of the Governor Obaseki-led government.”



Edo people will rise in Obaseki’s defense, foil Oshiomhole’s plan for impeachment

The recent statement by the former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole on the fate of Governor Godwin Obaseki in the Edo State House of Assembly polls exposes his insidious plan to oust the current governor through impeachment.

We are, however, confident that, like it happened in 2020, when Edo people stood with the governor despite the bullying and intimidation by Oshiomhole and his paymasters, Edo people will again rise in defense of the governor at the polls on Saturday, March 11; vote massively for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and elect a House controlled by the PDP.

Obaseki has never placed his confidence in any man or godfather. He has placed his confidence in God and the people.

It is also curious that it is Oshiomhole who has come forward with the agenda of the APC and not any of the candidates. One wonders if Oshiomhole will be a member of Edo State House of Assembly after the polls. This, obviously, points to who and where the instructions will be issued if the party’s candidates are mistakenly elected into the House.

Edo people can see the handwriting on the wall and we are certain that they will troop out en mass to vote candidates on the PDP in the election to sustain the developmental strides of the Governor Obaseki-led government.

Crusoe Osagie
Special Adviser, Media Projects

Oshiomhole, Tinubu and their APC should be rejected by all costs

Attention, Dear #Obidients in Edo

I have been thinking out loud on a particular issue and direction which I want to share with all of us. If there's any word as the most strongest #Obidient, I think I am most qualified for that title.

I have been committed to this course and at several instances used my resources to mobilize, print campaign materials and lead pockets of rallies in my locality for LP and our most amiable candidate, HE Peter Obi.

On Election Day for example, I was at my Garrick polling unit very early in the morning. As expected, we won with over 350 votes and I was there till about 8pm when the electoral officers finally uploaded the results via BVAS (either online or offline; na only God go judge them). The outcome of the poll as announced by INEC is a conversation for another day.

But here's my point. Elections are not won based on emotions. We need to be more strategic to ensure we don’t cede our dear beloved state to APC. Just as we crowned those liars and retrogressives at the centre, we may just be on our way to crowning them again if we make same mistake (maybe not mistake; we were not strategic enough).

Dear #Obidients, we need to be more strategic as not to let APC put sand sand in our eyes as they have done in the past. Grapevines have it that Emilokan, the Lagos landlord just as he bought Nigeria through INEC at the just concluded Presidential elections, has promised to deliver all 24 House of Assembly seats to Adams Oshiomhole with a target to impeach their mutual political enemy, Governor Obaseki.

We also hear that he’s already deploying resources, including a N200 million bribe money to be distributed to INEC officials and others in Edo to achieve this selfish aim. In addition to his rigging plot, their ultimate game plan is to split PDP votes with those of LP on Election Day, thereby placing them as the ultimate gainers. Edo #Obidients stay woke! Let’s join this effort to Stop Emilokan from taking over our dear State because na ten years backward them go carry us go.

God forbid!!!

While it is okay to agree that things are not perfect and a lot of people may have one or two things to say about how things are run in the state, Edo PDP remains the best option as compared to the evil party, APC.

Let’s not allow emotions ruin our future and those of our unborn generation.

Let’s join PDP to secure a sustainable future in Edo.

Let’s vote PDP for Saturday, March 11, 2023 House of Assembly elections.

*Eweka Emokpae is a concerned #Obidient in Edo*

Disregard accusations of state-sponsored protest – Obaseki’s aide

The Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie, has urged Edo people to disregard the recent statement by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, which raised a false alarm that the State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, is sponsoring a protest.

In a statement, Osagie said the Governor Obaseki as Chief Security Officer of Edo State is committed to the security and safety of his people and does not engage in actions that are self-destructive.

He noted, “The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State have again returned to their usual trade of deliberately concocting lies.

“We urge the good people of Edo State to disregard their recent statement which raised a false alarm that the Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, is sponsoring a protest.

“We are sure that Edo APC members are capable of such irrational behaviour, but Governor Obaseki as Chief Security Officer of Edo State is committed to the security and safety of his people and does not engage in actions that are self-destructive."

The governor’s aide queried, “How can Obaseki who will suffer the greatest liability of a protest in his state sponsor same?”

Osagie further noted, “Only irrational and illogical sadists like the leadership of Edo APC in Edo State are capable of such behaviour.

“We call on Edo people and all Nigerians to totally disregard this allegation and go about their lawful activities without fear.

“By the grace of God, never again will the lions and tigers of the APC be let loose on our land and our people.”


Disregard accusations of state-sponsored protest – Obaseki’s aide

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State have again returned to their usual trade of deliberately concocting lies.

We urge the good people of Edo State to disregard their recent statement which raised a false alarm that the Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, is sponsoring a protest.

We are sure that Edo APC members are capable of such irrational behaviour, but Governor Obaseki as Chief Security Officer of Edo State is committed to the security and safety of his people and does not engage in actions that are self-destructive.

How can Obaseki who will suffer the greatest liability of a protest in his state sponsor same?

Only irrational and illogical sadists like the leadership of Edo APC in Edo State are capable of such behaviour.

We call on Edo people and all Nigerians to totally disregard this allegation and go about their lawful activities without fear.

By the grace of God, never again will the lions and tigers of the APC be let loose on our land and our people.

Crusoe Osagie
Special Adviser, Media Projects

Anti-party activity: Dan Orbih, APC candidates, leaders in closed-door meeting

The National Vice Chairman, South, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Dan Orbih has continued his anti-party activities, as he is in a closed-door meeting with candidates and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state on Monday, 20 February.

The meeting held in Orbih’s house in Benin City, the state capital, and had in attendance former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly and former Ambassador to Mozambique, Rt. Hon. Uyi Igbe; Pascal Ugbome and other members of Orbih's faction.

It was gathered that Orbih, who occupies a sensitive national office of the party, is plotting to deploy his resources to work for the APC in the general election.

2023 election: APC in disarray, panic mode because illicit old naira notes can’t buy them votes anymore – Obaseki’s aide

… ‘Nigerians can’t wait to be rescued from the APC’s stranglehold on February 25’

The Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media Projects, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, has said the leaders of a faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have entered into panic mode and are raising hailstorms to cause mayhem like overgrown babies because they are scared of the certain defeat that awaits them in the February 25 presidential election.

In a statement, Osagie said the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s cash swap policy has thwarted the plans of the faction of the APC to undermine the election with illicit cash, which is why the party’s minions and leaders are on overdrive and are insulting the President for standing for free and credible elections.

According to him, “We are amused by the statement by members of the APC in Edo State and across the country, who have turned fly-by-night defenders of the masses because they take everyone for a fool. Pray tell, what have they been doing all these years that poor Nigerians have been subjected to extreme hardship, maimed and killed and there was no outrage from those in the camp of the APC. For them, the country was on a path to Eldorado.

“Now that the President is standing firmly by the masses, the APC is deceptively working against the people, at the risk of their governors’ committing treasonable offence. It is clear to all and sundry what the true intention of the APC and its leaders are. There was really never a structure. All that had existed were truckloads of naira bills which they had stashed away to induce voters during the election. Today, their structure has collapsed because the influence of cash is being dismantled by the pronouncements of the President.”

Osagie said that Nigerians cannot wait to be rescued from APC’s stranglehold, adding that the state government has taken necessary measures to ensure that those who need legitimate money for trade are not hampered by the policy.

“We are aware that the APC is panicking even in Edo State as we are trying to ameliorate the suffering of the people in the face of the policy by the CBN. We will not be deterred. We will continue to explore alternatives to ensure that the people get by after thugs sponsored by malevolent politicians destroy bank assets in the city centre.

“Now, they are crying foul because they know we have uncovered their plots. They can cry all they want; Edo people will meet them at the polls.”

*Obaseki directs free bus services by ECTS to cushion effect of cash crunch*

The Edo State Governor, His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has directed that beginning from today, Thursday, February 16, 2023, all Edo City Transport Service (ECTS) buses are to provide free services to passengers, as a means of reducing the effect of the cash crunch experienced by the people.

The directive is applicable to all routes and is effective till Monday, February 20, 2023, after which further announcement would be issued on the matter.

The government calls on the people to remain calm and law-abiding and assures that normalcy will be restored shortly.

*Crusoe Osagie*
*_Special Adviser on Media Projects_*
February 16, 2023

[quote author=Mhudi post=118985461]Why did you fall for that fraud even after I warned that there is nothing like NERC past questions.? NERC past questions before September 2022 doesn't exist. [/quo

Likely question

How many distribution companies do we have in Nigeria

There are how many tariff classes


Discos stand for what.....hit me up for the different position questions @ellisjassie@gmail.com

Nellymonic:


I am writing in Benin.

Analyst I
Market Analysis and competition

I am writing in Benin, what is your centre

madapcmod:


You have to come a day before. From Benin Auchi road in Benin, enter taxi to ring road, then enter uniben / ugbowo bus, stop at main gate, trek to the school gate and enter school taxi to the venue

Please am I the only one writing in this Venue: UNITED KNOWLEDGE GLOBAL SERVICES, 1, OGIEFA STREET, OFF MISSION ROAD, BENIN- CITY, EDO STATE

Lies cannot excuse FG’s failure of Nigeria’s 133 million poor, Obaseki’s aide tells Budget Minister, Agba

The Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie, has stated that telling lies in the face of indisputable evidence of bad leadership, poor economic management and general insecurity, which has thrown over 133 million Nigerians into debilitating poverty, cannot excuse the Federal Government’s economic managers from blame for poor performance and unforgivable blunders.


Osagie was responding to the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Prince Clem Agba who, during a press briefing after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, blamed Nigeria’s 36 state governors for the 133 million people who have descended into multidimensional poverty.

He noted that much as the Minister blamed the 36 state governors for the development, Edo State has maintained a transparent budgeting and fiscal management regime with the routine publication of its annual financial reports and other financial dealings for public scrutiny, a trend which, Osagie noted, cannot be said of Agba’s ministry and its sister agencies.

Osagie said the prudent management of the state’s finances is responsible for its high ranking in the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report, which placed the state among the seven states that are least impacted by multidimensional poverty in Nigeria.

Addressing Agba’s claims, the governor’s aide said: “It is rather unnerving that the Federal Government, which takes the lion share of the revenue accruing to the three tiers of government will turn around to accuse the two other tiers of government for failing the people. The Federal Government takes 56 percent from the Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) and shares the balance 44 percent between the States and Local Governments.

“In a time when these revenues have continued to dwindle as a result of the poor management of the economy by the Federal Government, who now resorts to borrowing to pay its workers, it is laughable that Agba is casting aspersions on states as a pretext to hide their failures.

“At this juncture, it is also pertinent to ask the question: what is the geographical jurisdiction of the Federal Government? Is it not just the Federal Capital Territory and a few terribly managed Federal Government infrastructure within the various states of the Federation? Where does the Federal Government spend its allocation?

“How will it dare to absolve itself of blame when a report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), which it commissioned, returned a verdict of failure in the wake of its parroting of an ineffective Social Investment Programme (SIP).”

Osagie said that despite increased government spending on security and defense, the handlers of Nigeria have severely failed to secure the people, with many unable to go about their lawful businesses around the country.

He said: “It would be putting it mildly to say that the Federal Government has failed abysmally on security, which has not only affected movement, a key economic activity, but also farming, which contributes about 70 percent to Nigeria’s GDP.

“It is so bad that our people in the rural areas cannot move around and take their farm produce to market as a result of insecurity. The inability to move has obviously affected their economic status and everyone would confirm that this has seriously affected their wellbeing, leading to multidimensional poverty.”

Osagie noted that while the Minister had charged governors for not constructing rural roads, it is telling that rural roads that have been built cannot be used because of the activities of bandits and kidnappers, who now operate unhindered along these roads.

“After spearheading the demise of the country’s economy, Agba’s attempt to shift the blame to the state governments is disrespectful to Nigerians, to say the least.

“Nigerians deserve a public and unreserved apology from Agba. He should advise his bosses and work with his colleagues to reduce poverty and suffering in the country.”

2023: APC either living in another planet or require psychiatric evaluation over Obaseki’s take on the party’s fate

The All Progressives Congress (APC) and its minions are either living in another planet or require psychiatric evaluation over their attempt to fault Governor Godwin Obaseki’s factual and honest assessment of the state of the nation and the dreadful fate that awaits Nigerians should the party somehow find their way to the Aso Rock Villa in 2023.

The party’s gang of hirelings, including a once-upon-a-time human rights activist continue to pollute the public space with their foul and distasteful takes on the governor’s comment while failing to properly read the room to know that the Governor spoke the mind of majority of Nigerians who have in the last 7 years been impoverished by the APC’s disastrous misrule.

What part of the call for reawakening by Governor Godwin Obaseki is the APC and their minions calling to question? Are Nigerians not victims of the party’s calamitous handling of the country’s affairs, which has today made the country the poverty capital of the world, with a disarticulate economy, excruciating debt burden and a hapless population pushing their way through insecure communities, dilapidated road network, among other failings?

When in April, 2021, Governor Obaseki raised the alarm that the Federal Government was printing money to run the economy and warned that if such practices continued, the Naira was heading to N1000 to $1 as against the rate of N500 to $1 at that time, APC and their lackeys screamed blue murder, playing the ostrich and denying the obvious. But today, what does $1 exchange against the Naira? Is N800 to $1 not equivalent to the warning the governor issued about a year ago?

The inflation rate is at an all time high and the price of staples such as rice, which sold for about N8000 for a 50kg bag during the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) era today hovers around N40,000 to N45,000 for the same quantity, and is out of the reach of the country’s poor masses.

The failure of the APC to guarantee oil production has left the country’s finances in dire straits. Under the APC-led government, Nigeria has been incapable of selling crude oil in the international market because of its inability to curb crude theft. The country is now almost missing in the international oil market as a result of the party’s mishandling of Nigeria’s oil assets.

Nigerians can no longer travel from Benin to Lagos, Kaduna to Abuja, Benue to Borno or Abuja to Niger because of the state of insecurity in the country, which the APC has taken to unprecedented levels.

Under the supervision of the APC, bandits drove Nigerians away from their farms and the roads. When Nigerians sought solace in train trips, the bandits also laid siege to the Abuja-Kaduna line and held hundreds of innocent Nigerians hostage and at the mercy of terrorists who killed many in their ferocious attack on the train. The party failed in its fundamental role of protecting Nigerians, who have all now resorted to feeble self-help in protection of their families and whatever is left of their personal belongings.

We know that the Minister of State for Labour and Productivity, Festus Keyamo has spent too much time on the dining table with the APC government of the day, feasting and fattening. He is now totally deaf to the plight of the people, who he once pretended to defend as a human rights activist. We want to remind him that not everyone has been stunned into insensitivity by largesse as has been his case.

Without any equivocation, we want to state in full support of His Excellency, Governor Godwin Obaseki, that Nigerians must by any means necessary stop the APC at the ballot from getting to Aso Rock to prevent the unfortunate descent to a failed state.



Crusoe Osagie

Special Adviser on Media Projects to Edo State Governor

October 25, 2022

Failed APC cannot lie its way to electoral victory – Obaseki’s aide, Osagie

The Special Adviser to Edo State Governor on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie has said the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state is staging a feeble comeback to the public space to pollute the air with their lies and poorly-crafted falsehoods, noting that the failed party cannot lie its way to electoral victory in the 2023 presidential elections.

In a statement, Osagie said the APC in Edo State seems to be searching for its lost voice in pursuit of the golden fleece from the electioneering season and are “shamelessly falling over themselves to eat from the crumbs from the Lagos largesse in the run up to the general election.”

He noted, “For them, the 2023 election is another business venture that must be harvested for its full worth. This is why they have staged a feeble comeback to the public space to pollute the air with their lies and poorly-crafted falsehoods.

“Though we have repeatedly stated that they thrive on vague and unfounded claims, which do not deserve any attention, however, it is necessary to educate them and set the records straight.

“The Edo State Government runs a transparent government that enjoys the support of the other two arms of government. The three arms of government have continued to work harmoniously to deliver the dividends of democracy to Edo citizens, who today are witnesses to the impactful projects and reforms ongoing across the state.”

Osagie continued: “It is mind-boggling that the party at the national level that has been borrowing trillions of naira to pay salaries of federal workers is making a fuss in Edo State where the government has consistently paid the highest minimum-wage in the country and still continues to deliver on its mandates to the people across other sectors of the economy.

“It is also rather unfortunate that members of the APC emerged as members-elect after the 2019 general elections but refused to make themselves available to serve the people and perform their legislative duties because of their primordial loyalty to their godfather. For this, the party has lost moral grounds to pontificate on the conduct of the Assembly.

“It must be stated that Governor Godwin Obaseki has led one of the most ambitious reforms in Nigeria’s education sector through the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EdoBEST) programme. The programme has been so successful that other APC-controlled states have come to understudy and adopt our model. This is in addition to massive recruitment of teachers to fill vacancies in the sector.”

The statement further reads: “The World Bank and the World Economic Forum have hailed the impact of the reforms by the governor. As I write this, a delegation from the Gambian government is in the state to understudy the state’s systems. Is it not telling that it is only Edo APC that has a negative vibe about all the positive reforms ongoing in the state?

“It is also not surprising that the APC is criticizing the government’s campaign against land-grabbing and moves to protect property rights in the state. Their stance against the New Town project along Irhirhi-Obazagbon-Ogheghe Road and the 30-Year Development Plan outs the APC as lawless, clueless and unprogressive. They are the land-grabbers in Edo State and are apparently the only ones who are opposed to sanitizing the built environment space because they are known to benefit from chaos and disorderliness.

“In its recent report, the Debt Management Office (DMO) put the state in a positive light in terms of Debt-to-GDP ratio. Moreover, when discussing issues of debt management, the question is not how much debt is owed but what has been done with the monies borrowed. Unlike the party at the national level which has frittered the debt borrowed on unsustainable projects, the state has prioritized projects that impact immensely in the lives of the people.”

The governor’s media aide added, “It must be reiterated that the APC trades and wallows in lies and its last outing shows that it is well within character and are shamelessly falling over themselves to eat from the crumbs from the Lagos largesse in the run up to the general election. They cannot lie their way to electoral victory no matter how hard they try.”

“Edo people, who obviously know better, are prepared to confront the failed party at the polls and will handsomely deliver Edo State to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections.”




F[b]ailed APC cannot lie its way to electoral victory – Obaseki’s aide, Osagie[/b]

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State seems to be searching for its lost voice in pursuit of the golden fleece from the electioneering season.

For them, the 2023 election is another business venture that must be harvested for its full worth. This is why they have staged a feeble comeback to the public space to pollute the air with their lies and poorly-crafted falsehoods.

Though we have repeatedly stated that they thrive on vague and unfounded claims, which do not deserve any attention, however, it is necessary to educate them and set the records straight.

The Edo State Government runs a transparent government that enjoys the support of the other two arms of government. The three arms of government have continued to work harmoniously to deliver the dividends of democracy to Edo citizens, who today are witnesses to the impactful projects and reforms ongoing across the state.

It is mind-boggling that the party at the national level that has been borrowing trillions of naira to pay salaries of federal workers is making a fuss in Edo State where the government has consistently paid the highest minimum-wage in the country and still continues to deliver on its mandates to the people across other sectors of the economy.

It is also rather unfortunate that members of the APC emerged as members-elect after the 2019 general elections but refused to make themselves available to serve the people and perform their legislative duties because of their primordial loyalty to their godfather. For this, the party has lost moral grounds to pontificate on the conduct of the Assembly.

It must be stated that Governor Godwin Obaseki has led one of the most ambitious reforms in Nigeria’s education sector through the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EdoBEST) programme. The programme has been so successful that other APC-controlled states have come to understudy and adopt our model. This is in addition to massive recruitment of teachers to fill vacancies in the sector.

The World Bank and the World Economic Forum have hailed the impact of the reforms by the governor. As I write this, a delegation from the Gambian government is in the state to understudy the state’s systems. Is it not telling that it is only Edo APC that has a negative vibe about all the positive reforms ongoing in the state?

It is also not surprising that the APC is criticizing the government’s campaign against land-grabbing and moves to protect property rights in the state. Their stance against the New Town project along Irhirhi-Obazagbon-Ogheghe Road and the 30-Year Development Plan outs the APC as lawless, clueless and unprogressive. They are the land-grabbers in Edo State and are apparently the only ones who are opposed to sanitizing the built environment space because they are known to benefit from chaos and disorderliness.

In its recent report, the Debt Management Office (DMO) put the state in a positive light in terms of Debt-to-GDP ratio. Moreover, when discussing issues of debt management, the question is not how much debt is owed but what has been done with the monies borrowed. Unlike the party at the national level which has frittered the debt borrowed on unsustainable projects, the state has prioritized projects that impact immensely in the lives of the people.

It must be reiterated that the APC trades and wallows in lies and its last outing shows that it is well within character and are shamelessly falling over themselves to eat from the crumbs from the Lagos largesse in the run up to the general election. They cannot lie their way to electoral victory no matter how hard they try.

Edo people, who obviously know better, are prepared to confront the failed party at the polls and will handsomely deliver Edo State to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections.



Crusoe Osagie


Special Adviser, Media Projects to Governor of Edo State[/b]

[b]October 20, 2022[i][/i]

Obaseki’s aide to Edo APC: Lying unintelligently an ineffective way to play opposition politics

The Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media Projects, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, has said that the only proof of life of the comatose All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State is to issue spineless press statements, spewing falsehoods against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-led Edo State Government.

The party had in a recent statement said that the Edo State Government has declared a work-free day on Friday, October 21, 2022, to enable civil servants attend the party’s presidential rally.

In a statement, he said “To claim that the state government purportedly declared Friday, October 21, 2022, a work-free-day for a rally that is scheduled to hold on Saturday, October 22, 2022, is the height of foolery and clearly amounts to taking absurdity to an extreme level.

“The PDP, according to its presidential campaign timetable, is billed to hold the state rally in Benin City, on Saturday, October 22, 2022.”

He added: “At no point did the state government declare a work-free-day for the rally, which is absolutely unnecessary, to say the least, as even little children are aware that Saturday is not a working day in Nigeria.

“The leaders and stakeholders in Edo APC have continued to tell unintelligent lies, making a mess of their assignment as the opposition party in the state because they have shamelessly become accustomed to telling blatant lies.

“What is most unfortunate about their situation is that their sporadic grandstanding in obscure online newspapers is half-hearted because they know that the APC does not have any votes in Edo State.

“But since the electioneering cycle has commenced and for them it is opportunity to do brisk business, they are trying to hoodwink their Presidential candidate, popularly known as Emilokan, who is awash with Lagos cash, in order to get some money from him.”

According to him: “Even though their invectives do not really deserve a response because it is clearly false, it is necessary to set the records straight and constantly respond to their obvious lies.

“Edo people, however, are aware of the antics of the APC and have rightly placed them in the dustbin of history with the defeat of the party at the 2020 governorship election, a feat that is sure to be repeated in the 2023 general elections.”

imam07:
ok

Please anyone with Testmi Past Questions should kindly send to my email @ ewereloveday24@gmail.com

Edo readies for 2nd edition of BOWFT as Betsy Obaseki inspects Ogbemudia stadium, other facilities

The Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, on Monday, led other members of the organizing committee for the Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament (BOWFT) on an inspection of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium and other facilities for the second edition of the tournament.

The competition scheduled to commence from Wednesday, September 7, 2022, will be focused on driving the government’s campaign against drug abuse.

Obaseki said, “The Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium will host the opening and closing ceremony of the game. The final will be played here. We have other facilities to be used for the competition apart from this stadium.

“We are expecting 13 teams as we had many requests but can't accommodate more teams. Last year it was 12 and next year it might be 14 teams. We are prepared and the girls are ready to do better than they did last year. This year's winner will go home with N5 million naira.

“The philosophy of the tournament is to have a lasting effect on our girls. We had a lot of lashing with human trafficking. We are working hard and trying to create another avenue for our girls to earn dollars. We are working to change the narrative of the image of the state.

“We have private and corporate sponsors. The first edition was world-class and we got international recognition from FIFA for our effort. We will improve on it this year. We plan to have other activities aside from football. The competition is not all about football.”

The Edo first lady said the competition last year focused on human trafficking, adding, “This year, it will be focusing on combating drug abuse in Nigeria. We will have discussions around the topic with our young girls and also invite secondary school students to have interactions with us.”

PHOTO CAPTION

DSC_01

L-R: Permanent Secretary, Edo State Sports Commission, Mrs. Sabina Chikere; Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, and the Chairman, Edo State Sport Commission, Mr. Yusuf Ali, during the inspection of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, Monday September 5th, 2022.

Edo Int’l film festival: Obaseki fetes winners with over $50,000 cash prizes as festival closes

…urges increased private sector participation in creative industry

The maiden edition of the Edo State International Film Festival (ESIFF), which had participants from over 94 different countries across the globe, came to a close at the weekend, with the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, doling out cash rewards worth over $50,000 to winners of various categories.

Obaseki, at the closing ceremony of the four-day film show, in Benin City, called for increased private sector participation to sustain the annual film festival as well as the gains recorded with reforms to grow the state’s creative industry.

The governor’s award of $10,000 for the best overall film at festival went to a project titled, ‘Onaiwu,’ directed by Joseph Okhomina who also won the best director at the festival.

The ‘Battle of the West’ emerged best film in the use of technology; ‘Zara’ won best cellphone film and ‘the Funeral’ emerged the best student film, with each winner getting $2,000 cash reward each.

The best indigenous language film award, aimed at promoting the use of indigenous language in filmmaking, was bagged by ‘On this mountain,’ while ‘Omoatama,’ emerged the best film shot in Edo state, with each category winner going home with $5,000 cash prize.

Winners of the rural photography award also went home with N375, 000. Other winners are Best Director, Joseph Okhomina (Onaiwu); Best Actor (female), Victory Idahosa (Onaiwu); Best Actor (male), Ben Olaye (Onaiwu); Best Short Film, Tare: Best Documentary, Palm for Crude; Best Film Costume, Osayi Blessing (Onaiwu); Best Filmmaker, Ramon Abdulazeez and Best Cinematography, After a while (Egypt).

The governor, while expressing his satisfaction with the success of the festival said, “Edo people are perhaps the most creative people on the black continent.”

Obaseki noted, “Our history is there to show that we have created masterpieces in terms of arts throughout the centuries. Our people are the most creative Africans that have existed. The talents that we are celebrating here today come from a long line and strong heritage of creativity and heritage. Tonight, we are celebrating our best at the maiden Edo State International Film Festival.

“After today, the dates for next year’s festival will be announced. We are here to give out the award to the best overall film. I am sure the work and time that went into producing this film is worth more than what we are giving as a prize. This prize is just a token of our appreciation for the work put into telling our stories by utilizing our God-given talent.”

Noting that Edo people have thrived through their creativity in music and films and the capacity to preach the word of God to the rest of the world, Obaseki added, “We are successful in these two areas because of limited government intervention and involvement in your affairs, enabling you to express yourselves and sell your talent to the whole world.

“In our future film festival, you will witness the government pulling back and you're doing more for yourself. We will continue to support you but will allow the industry to take over as the government does not have the talent to do what you are doing.”

Head of festival jury, Prof. Osakue Omoera, while hailing the governor for the initiative, noted that the jury screened over 2,000 films from 94 countries.

Omoera advised, "We urge and encourage practitioners in the industry to up their games technically and in terms of storytelling. There is also the need to raise the bar in technical competency in the areas of production design, script play and sound design, amongst others.

“We encourage practitioners to avail themselves of the existing training programmes by the government and apply what has been taught to enable quality films emerging from Edo State.”

PHOTO CAPTION

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L-R: Andrew Osawaru; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Chairman, Edo State International Film Festival (ESIFF) Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen; Wendy Imasuen; Tobias Wolfgarten, at the closing ceremony of the four-day film festival, in Benin City.