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  There is no doubting the fact that the attempts, race and shenanigans to replace Senator Monday Okpebholo, Edo State Governor in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is currently  ongoing and calls for deep retrospection, based on three strong reasons. First, there are Serious Comedians and Jesters in the race, who are unserious and just want to make their presence known.These  folks, though they be in the race are, seriously Speaking, not actually the ones to consider.They are what they are : Jesters. Secondly, there are the Contenders. As a matter of fact, this group of Aspirants are in the race not for their Stomach sake, but for the sole reason to give Esan people and those of us from Edo Central, not just Effective Representation but people-centric,  and quality Representation anchored on the principles of justice, equity and fair play. If you know, you know. Thirdly, we have the group that can be referred to as The Predenters.In all they are doing ri...

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has charged contractors handling some failed sections of the Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi highway to ensure the project is completed before the onset of the rainy season. Governor Okpebholo and his entourage were enroute Irrua, in Esan Central Local Government Area of the State, when he made a brief stop over at several sections of the Benin -Ekpoma-Auchi highway to inspect the level of repairs done so far, while urging contractors to speed up work. The ongoing palliative work on the failed sections of the Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi road is being handled by the Edo State Government.  While at both the Obadan and Okpoji junctions, Governor Okpebholo interacted with the contractors and inquired from them if there were challenges. He urged them to execute the job in line with contractual specifications.  The sections inspected by the Governor included Ugha, Ehor, Ihie, Utene, Igieduma, Okemuen communities. Others included Power Line off Ukhun road Eguar...

By Williams Adesoji Prominent Nigerian social critic, human rights and pro-democracy activist, Comrade Igbotako Nowinta, has declared that the Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu has overstayed his welcome at the headquarters of the body in Abuja. Comrade Igbotako Nowinta, Executive - Director, Nigeria Good Governance Research Centre ( NGGRC), who doubles as international conflict resolution expert, made the above assertion, via a press release titled: Nigerians Have Lost Confidence In Prof. Yakubu: INEC Must Be Re:organized Immediately", which he gave to journalists in Abuja on Sunday, January 26th, 2025. The social critic said Nigerians are sick and tired of Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu; he has repeatedly failed woefully to deliver transparent, free and fair elections to the satisfaction of the mass of the Nigerian people. According to Comrade Nowinta:"It is clear to us that the body language and utterances of the Chairman of INEC show...

                                                                 Sir (Dr.) Lucky Eseigbe                       Commissioner for the Ministry of Local Government, Community and Chieftaincy Affairs, By  Daniel-Nwosu Lucy N. Edo State Government is committed to enhancing the welfare of both Government staff and citizens thereby ensuring the impact and dividends of democracy  are visible to all, even at the Local Government Areas. This was disclosed by the newly sworn-in Commissioner for the Ministry of Local Government, Community and Chieftaincy Affairs, Sir (Dr.) Lucky Eseigbe  during his maiden meeting with the Management and Staff of the Ministry. He said that the Government is dedicated to creating an enabling environment that supports Staff while al...

  Former World Medical Association President, Dr. Osahon Enabulele has urged Nigerians to take care of their health by visiting clinics for regular check ups to reap the dividends of their labour Speaking on the topic, "the importance of Routine  medical checkups" during a Medical Outreach organized by the Dr. Osahon Enabulele Foundation  for staff of the Independent Television, ITV and Radio, Iguosa, Dr. Osahon Enabulele said it is their  responsibility to take care of themselves. While quoting Aristotle, the former Nigeria Medical Association Chairman in Edo State, Dr. Enabulele who is the Director-General of the Foundation maintained that an unexamined life is not worth living. "This free Medical Outreach and health awareness lectures are part of our modest contributions to improve the health of staff of ITV and Radio and to promote healthy living, "We have the responsibility to take care of ourselves to reap the dividends of our labour. The Dr. Osahon Enabulele ...

  Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, inspected the ongoing construction of the first flyover in Benin City, a landmark project being undertaken by his administration. Expressing satisfaction with the work done so far, the Governor stated that his administration is focused on delivering tangible projects rather than signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). “We are practical people, not MoUs. You can see for yourself the progress made. Building a flyover is not something you rush into, but I am confident in the contractor’s capacity and the quality of work being delivered,” Governor Okpebholo remarked. During an inspection of the Upper Ekenwan Road construction, the Governor directed contractors to accelerate their efforts and work round the clock to ensure completion before the rainy season. At the drainage site opposite the Army Barracks, Governor Okpebholo emphasized his administration’s commitment to providing motorable roads across the State. Residents in the area...

Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu    has said that the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo is poised to work. ‎ Mr. Ohonbamu   who made this assertion during his maiden meeting with members of staff at the Ministry's premises in Benin City, described the Governor as a man who had always been a philanthropist and had done a lot before being elected as the governor of Edo State. The Commissioner who noted that the present administration was on a rescue mission to break Edo residents free from bondage, sued for synergy among staff and transparency in dissemination of information to the public in order to stop the spread of rumours. Hon. Ohonbamu expressed confidence in the administrative abilities of the Permanent Secretary, describing him as a man of intelligence. Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Desmond Agbama introduced Heads of Departments and members of staff to the Commissioner, assuring that all hands would...

The Nigeria Union of the (NUJ), Edo State Council has condemned in strong terms, the unwarranted attack on journalists by officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Edo State Election Petition Tribunal sitting on Monday January 20, 2025.  A statement signed by the NUJ Chairman, Dr. Festus Alenkhe and the Secretary, Andy Egbon stated that the attempt to bar journalists from performing their constitutional duties is a blatant assault on press freedom and the fundamental right of citizens to information and free speech. According to the NUJ, "The actions of the DSS operatives are not only unacceptable, but also a clear indication of the growing hostility towards the media in Nigeria.  "We therefore call on the Director-General of the DSS and the Edo State Director of the service to take immediate steps to caution their personnel and prevent future occurrences. "We stand in solidarity with our colleagues who were harassed and intimidated by the DSS operatives...

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his love for Edo people, assuring him of continued support ahead of the 2027 Presidential polls. Governor Okpebholo stated this in his goodwill message during a food outreach by the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), through its Social Investment Programme. At the event which held at the New Festival Hall of Government House, Benin City, Governor Okpebholo said the electorate in Edo State will give the President 100 percent of their votes in the 2027 presidential election for remembering the vulnerable in the State. The RHI food outreach began on the 8th of March, 2024, and about seven States, including Edo, have benefited from the initiative so far. The other States include Kano, Benue, Nasarawa, Ekiti, Cross River, and Gombe, while States like Kwara, Kogi, and Abia are next in line. Governor Okpebholo commended the First Lady of Nigeria and Chairperson of RHI, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her love and...

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, swore in the Chairman of the State Universal Education Board (SUBEB), Six new Commissioners, Chairmen and members of Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC), Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC), and State Secondary Education Board (SSEB). The Governor charged them to help him drive development and progress in the State during the swearing ceremony at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Edo State. While stressing that his administration is in a hurry to bring development, Governor Okpebholo Harped on the unique qualities and capacity of the newly sworn in executives, noting that they reflect the requisite commitment of his administration to bring good governance, efficient and effective service delivery to fulfill the promises made to the people of Edo State. "This appointment is not just an honor but a call to serve with dedication, integrity, and excellence. You have been chosen b...

The Edo State 2024 Governorship Election Tribunal on Thursday concluded pre-hearing proceedings for two petitions challenging the outcome of the 2024 gubernatorial election, won by the APC candidate, Senator Monday Okpehbholo. The cases, filed by Ugiagbe Odaro Sylvester and Allied Peoples Movement, Akhimien Kingston Afeare and Action Democratic Party, were heard under separate suits (EPT/ED/GOV/05/2024 and EPT/ED/GOV/06/2024) at the tribunal sitting at the High Court premises in Benin City. During the pre-hearing, all parties were duly represented, and motions were moved and argued before the tribunal which has reserved rulings on all pending motions until the final judgment day. In the first suit, Ugiagbe Odaro Sylvester & Anor. vs. Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) & 2 Ors., the petition was filed on November 13, 2024, while replies from the respondents were filed by December 2024.  Counsel for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd respondents namely Senator Monday Okpehbh...

The ongoing Edo State Governorship Election Tribunal has no more or less become the epicenter of political discourse in the State and beyond, with analysts and citizens closely monitoring unfolding developments. At the heart of the proceedings is Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), whose victory was declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in the September 21 election is being challenged by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Akintunde Ighodalo.  Interestingly, despite the opposition's claims, proceedings so far suggest that Governor Okpebholo’s position remains unshaken. The evidence presented by the PDP apparently revolves around alleged irregularities. But Governor Okpebholo's legal team has meticulously dismantled these claims, presenting counter-evidence and testimonies that validate the credibility of the election.  The tribunal acknowledged the detailed documentation submitted by the petitioners and o...

  Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has employed 360 Edo citizens from the three Senatorial Districts into the state's Civil Service. Those recruited have been deployed to various government ministries and Parastatals to boost the workforce. The State Head of Service, (HOS) Dr. Anthony Okungbowa disclosed this in his office in Benin City while briefing newsmen on the steps taken by the Okpebholo-led administration to embark on people-centered initiatives. Okungbowa said the previous administration had a contractual agreement with consultants and contractors who could hire and fire at any time it pleased them. He noted that those employed by this present administration are to receive the N70, 000 minimum wage paid to all Edo State workers showing the Okpebholo administration's commitment to delivering good governance in all sectors. "Recently, the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo directed that cleaners should be employed into the State civil servic...

  All is now set for the official launch of the Dr. Osahon Enabulele Foundation, DOEF and Colloquium with the theme, "Nigeria and the Leadership question: Unlocking the potential for a better tomorrow," The Past President, World Medical Association, Dr. Osahon Enabulele is the Director General and convener of the DOEF.  A statement from the DOEF Media and Publicity Committee, the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty alleviation, Hon (Dr.) Tanko Yusuf Sununu, the Danmadamin of Youri is the Special Guest of Honour at the event to be held at the Akin Deko Auditorium, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State on January 29th 2025. The Director-General, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs. NIIA, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae is the keynote speaker and the Vice Chancellor, University of Benin, Prof. Edoba Omoregie (SAN) is the Chairman of the occasion. A former Director General of NTA, Communication Scholar and lawyer, Prof. Tonnie Iredia, OON will be the lead pre...

  Edo State Government has solicited the support and cooperation of residents in the State to end the menace of land grabbing. Speaking on behalf of the State Governor, the new Managing Director of Edo State Geographic Information Service (EdoGIS), Dr. Tony Ikpasaja at his maiden meeting with the entire Staff of the Agency said the Government was poised to end the menace of land grabbing in record time. He particularly frowned at the menace of land racketeering on government lands in Auchi in Edo North Senatorial District . According to the MD, the immediate concern of his leadership is to broaden the revenue base of the Agency in line with His Excellency, the Governor’s directive and seek ways of encouraging the entire workforce through various incentives that will positively impact on their welfare. Dr Ikpasaja hinted that he was already aware of reported incidences of land grabbing in parts of the state, the latest being in Auchi area of Edo North, and cautioned Staff not to con...

  Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has commended the bravery, dedication, and sacrifice of the late Andrew Omotor, a firefighter who lost his life in the line of duty while responding to a distress call. The Governor, represented by the Edo State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, visited the family of the deceased in Benin City alongside the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Safety and Security, Queeneth Orobedo; Executive Secretary, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Hon. Jerry Idahosa; and the Director of Edo State Fire Service, Mr. Omoluru Osayande, among others. During the visit, Dr. Okungbowa conveyed the Governor’s heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, describing the late Omotor as a courageous firefighter who served with dedication. He noted that the 45-year-old left behind a wife, six children, and an elderly mother who are struggling to come to terms with the tragic loss of their breadwinner. Addressing the family, Dr. Okungbowa said...

  Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has unveiled the management and players of Bendel Insurance and Edo Queens Football Club with an affirmation of government’s commitment to revitalize the football clubs and restore it back to its glory days. Governor Okpebholo, represented by his Deputy Governor, Rt Hon. Dennis Idahosa, did the official unveiling at the Government House, in Benin City. Recognizing the importance of sport in building cohesion and fostering unity as well as driving economic growth in society, Hon. Dennis said Edo State Government places great importance on sporting activities and is committed to revitalizing the twin clubs and taking them to enviable heights in both national and intercontinental football competitions. Hon. Idahosa said: “It is with great pleasure I welcome you to this epoch making event. Today’s unveiling of the management and players of Bendel Insurance FC and Edo Queens underscores the importance this administration places on sport as ...

It was a no-hold bar interview with the Director General of the Dr. Osahon Enabulele Foundation on Thursday January 9th, at the Edo State Broadcasting Station (EBS), Benin City.   Appearing as guest at the "One on One" television programme of the station, "Hard Talk" to discuss the Foundation's thematic thrust, the former President of the World Medical Association (WMA), did not only prove that he was a world class medical exegete, but also, a peerless pundit on the subjects of: leadership,  sustainable development goals, social orientation, and other sundry similar topics.  The DG was quizzed by one of ITV's best hands, Kayode Alude, in a vivid and interesting  session; described later by one observer, as, "world class". Mr kayode wanted to know why the World citizen would be starting a Foundation here in Benin, Nigeria, when he could easily have got another job abroad and stayed there? "After all, you do have the connection and capacity to d...

A prominent Benin City based businessman, and an active member of the Baptist High School Benin City, Class of 1984 Set, Mr. Jaja Okungbowa, organized  befitting grand farewell ceremonies for his late centenarian mother, Dr. Mrs Ohumumwen Osemwengie Okungbowa over the weekend. The elaborately planned ceremonies which began on Friday 10th January, 2025,  with a novelty Football Match held at the Vuvuzela Airport Road, Benin City, continued on Saturday 11th January 2025, with a massively  attended social dance which took place at the Military Base Hospital Airport Road, Benin City. At the spectacular social dance, guests from diaspora and across the country were treated to varieties of drinks, sumptuous African and continental dishes, while powerful thrilling songs was supplied by the Talents of Benin musical group. Members of Baptist High School, Benin City Class of 1984 Set, who turned out in large numbers during the social dance, to facilitate with Mr. Jaja Okungbowa, we...

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has called on the three arms of government to work together to ensure the State's rapid development under his administration. The Governor made the call when he received Judges of the Edo State Judiciary led by the Chief Judge of the State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, who were in Government House on a courtesy visit. According to Okpebholo, the Legislature has been very cooperative, especially with regards to the Appropriation Bill, ensuring its passage for the benefit of the people and he therefore urged the Judiciary to equally follow suit, ensuring that it collaborates with his administration to ensure justice is delivered in order to propel the growth and development of the State. "Today, I am happy to see the Chief Judge and members of the Judiciary. Yes, we have challenges in Edo State, and the Executive can't solve them alone as we need synergy to develop and grow the State. "I need synergy between the three arms of go...

                     Dr. Osahon Enabulele in a handshake with  the General Manager and Deputy Director,                              Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (Bronze FM ) Dr. Mrs Abimbola, in Benin City. The Edo born iconic medic and former President of the World Medical Association, Dr Osahon Enabulele, is not relenting from his accustomed activism on issues of equal  opportunities for all, on socioeconomic development and access; especially access to medical care, welfare of personnel, access to education, social philanthropy and other development indices enshrined in the Sustainable Development Goals 2030 that Nigeria assented to. With just five years to go, Nigeria is still lagging much behind in meeting acceptable targets of these SDG goals.  Dr Osahon Enabulele made his thoughts known, when he visited the Management team of th...

A Foundation is basically an organisation devoted to altruistic values; which by the nature of things, invariably involves Charity and modelling ideals for society. It positions itself as an influence of good and dispenser of moral attitude and standards.  The first few lines of Wikipedia define a Foundation as " A charitable organization[1] or charity is an organization whose primary objectives are philanthropy and social well-being ..." . Whatever your point of viewing it, a Foundation would always remain a social influence. Influence is  superlatively important in society, and must enlist our earnest curiosity, attention and vigilance. Influence plus Power are the mystique that make Government so Mighty.  Dr. Osahon Enabulele Foundation falls under the category of a Private Foundation as opposed to corporate foundation etc. A visit to its website tells us this:  " The Dr. Osahon Enabulele Foundation is a charitable foundation borne out of the critical need to adva...