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Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, said his administration does not interfere with local government funds, a decision he said will enable the third tier of government to bring development to the grass roots. He noted that Edo State was taken backwards by the previous administration of Godwin Obaseki but today, the narrative has changed and chairmen are now recognized by his administration and new SUVs have been given to them to aid effective service delivery. "I want to thank God for making today possible as chairmen now have the privilege to drive brand new vehicles in the State. New things are beginning to happen in Edo State under the watch of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. "Edo will experience more development even as we compete with Lagos, Abuja, and other States of the Federation. The vehicles commissioned today are not for the private use of the local government chairmen but for the development of the people at the grass roots. I will monitor you to ensure the...

  Stakeholders in Edo State are excited about the  Project "SHINE" Five Point Agenda of  Governor Monday Okpebholo's led administration for delivering  dividends of democracy within six months to the people. The excited participants commended the transparency and  accountability displayed so far by the administration which has constructed roads, provided health care, built schools, bought tractors for Agriculture and vehicles for security and others The  various speakers also noted  the healthy collaboration between the Federal  and State government during a Stakeholders Sensitization Workshop, with the theme, " Exposing the Programmes and Projects of Governor Monday Okpebholo's administration held in Benin City. A Civil Rights  Activist, Prof. Felix Orhiakhi of the Department of Political Science, Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa State, said Edo people are happy with what the government is doing and anybody that want the transformation of...

   The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu has emphasized the need for Government at all levels to prioritize the welfare and transformation of the society for the greater good of the citizens. Hon. Ohonbamu gave this remark at the Stakeholders Sensitization Workshop organized by the Ministry of Information and Communication with the theme, "Exposing the Programmes and Projects of Governor Monday Okpebholo's administration", held at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, Benin City. According to the Commissioner, "We know that Government should not be there as an end in itself, it must be a means to an end, the essence of Government is to transform society". Hon. Ohonbamu while commending Governor Monday Okpebholo's project SHINE vision to transform the State, asserted that the purpose of the stakeholders sensitization was to engage all critical stakeholders on the various infrastructural and developmental strides of Governor Monday O...

Edo State Ministry of Information and Communication Will host a stakeholder Sensitization workshop to showcase the programme and projects of Governor Monday Okpebholo's administration. The workshop with the theme, " Exposing the Programmes and projects of Governor Monday Okpebholo's administration" will be held on Thursday May 29, ,2025 at Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, Airport Road, Benin City beginning at 10.am A statement by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon Paul Ohonbamu Esq. urged guests and stakeholders to attend punctually.

Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon Paul Ohonbamu  has directed candidates from Esan West and Owan West to report to the National Youth Service Corps,  NYSC camp, Okada for the Edo State Security Corps, ESSC  training. A statement issued by the Commissioner in Benin City disclosed that they are the only local government not in camp right now for training. According to the Commissioner, the candidates from Esan West and Owan West LGA are to report to NYSC camp, Okada immediately. Meanwhile, the Batch 2 recruits from the following local governments will start their training on Thursday May 29, 2025 at the  Police Training School, Ogida Benin City It covers five local government areas- Egor, Ikpoba Okha, Oredo, Etsako West and Owan East. "The recruits are expected to come along with two pairs of white round neck vest, two white pillow cases, one pair of white canvas, two pairs of white socks, cutleries,  food flasks, two blue shorts, one b...

 That Edo Central Senatorial seat at the National Assembly has been vacant since the conduct of the Edo 2024  gubernatorial Election. The vacancy necessitated a call for a worthy representative who is well rooted in the affairs of the people to drive home the necessary developmental strides, the call was resounding enough that fervent emphasis was made on competence and confidence in the ability to deliver? *PRINCE JOE OKOJIE* stands distinct, leading in all requisite qualifications to embody this task. A man of honor and integrity, outstanding by his political ideologies, strategic in leadership delivering and conviction in the people from whom he emerge and belong.  The drums are beaten with gonging crescendo for all to rally round the leader of a progressive PACK; bravery and courage flow in his veins in this era when men cannot withstand the pressure of strains. In him we believe, an end more promising and we rise united and determined to deliver……. *NOMINATE AND SUPP...

Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon Paul Ohonbamu has called on  the state  indigenes to apply online for admission into the Nigerian Navy Military/Welfare Schools for 2025/2026 Academic session.   The Commissioner in a statement in Benin City disclosed that the Directorate of Naval Education has commenced Online sale of  Application forms for Admission into Junior Secondary School (JSS) 1 of the Nigerian Navy Military School, Ikot Ntuen and Eight other Nigerian Navy Secondary School for the 2025/2026 Academic Session. The other Secondary Schools are located at Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abeokuta, Calabar, Okura, Ogbomoso, Kuje and Imeri. "This is an opportunity for Edo State indigenes to benefit from the high quality education standard the Nigerian Navy schools provide," the Commissioner added. In another statement,  the Director of Naval Education, Rear Admiral A.O Ogunleye disclosed that the entrance examination into the Nigerian Nav...

The gentle soul of Princess Mrs. Rita Ofure Gbinigie - Obidike  was finally laid to rest after a glorious, colourful, farewell ceremony by the Gbinigie family, Friends and Associates in London.  It was an emotion laden  and electrifying moment for everyone who shared a close bond with Rita, the Managing Director, Discovery Travels and Tours.   It was also tributes galore for the distinguished life style of Ofure who lived not just for herself, but for the world around her. She lived a wonderful life   and gave it to so many people who crossed her path and it was noted by everyone that her legacy will live on. They disclosed that there are lessons to learn from the kind of life she lived She was passionately described as an  angel sent to change lives. The kind of life she lived clearly shows that it is very hard to find her kind in this generation. Ofure was extremely humble, beautiful inside and outside, a devout prayer warrior who loved praising God ...

His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, extends warm felicitations to all children in Edo State and across Nigeria on the occasion of Children's Day. The Governor, in a statement, urged parents and guardians to dissuade their children from joining cult groups.  Governor Okpebholo recognizes Children's Day as a significant opportunity to celebrate the boundless potential, innocence, and vibrant spirit of our young ones, who are the true leaders of tomorrow. He reaffirms his administration's unwavering commitment to ensuring their well-being, providing them with quality education, and creating an environment where they can thrive and realize their full potential. In his message, Governor Okpebholo emphasized: "Our children are our most precious assets. Their dreams are the blueprints for a brighter future for Edo State. As an administration, we are fully dedicated to investing in their development, protecting their rights, and nurturing their talents." He highlig...

Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon Paul Ohonbamu  has said that the training of   the new recruits of the Edo State Security Corps, ESSC  has been extended to Wednesday. A statement issued by the Commissioner in Benin City disclosed that those who did not report for training at the National Youth Service Corps,  NYSC Camp, Okada will not be accepted into the ESSC. According to the Commissioner, the  deadline for batch 1 to report for training has been extended to Wednesday  May 28, 2025 and after that day the training camp will be closed.  The Commissioner called on the Local Government Area Chairmen to sensitive their citizens to report for training. " Anyone not in the  NYSC Camp Okada by Wednesday May 28,  2025 will not be allowed to join the training.  "The affected Local Government Areas are: Ovia South West, Ovia North East,, Uhunmwonde, Igueben  Esan North East, Esan South East, Etsako Central ...

In a country where insecurity remains one of the most pressing challenges, clear and courageous leadership at the state level has become more important than ever. In Edo State, one voice has stood out—not just for its boldness, but for its clarity, consistency, and credibility. That voice is Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, the Commissioner for Information and Communication. Recently, at a press briefing in Benin City, Commissioner Ohonbamu addressed the issue of cultism and kidnapping head-on, offering both a clear warning and a path forward. His remarks left no room for doubt about the government’s commitment to restoring safety and public trust. “Any landlord whose building is discovered to be accommodating a cultist will face the wrath of the law,” Ohonbamu declared. “Cult-related activities will be aggressively tackled, with perpetrators and their enablers facing the full weight of the law.” This is not empty rhetoric. It reflects a government actively working to eliminate crime from the grass...

 The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has embarked on the Ground Breaking of the Benin City Nigeria Temple where children of God can seek spiritual guidance for crucial decisions. In his remarks and dedicatory prayer during the epoch making event in Benin City, the General Authority Seventy First Counselor, Africa West Area, Elder Adeyinka Ayodeji Ojediran said the temple is where the children of God receive revelations and draw closer to God. "Temples are sacred places where we make sacred covenants with God and receive blessings for ourselves and families, living and dead. "They are houses of the lord, places of Peace and learning. Their principal purpose is to provide ordinances and covenants necessary for the children of God to enable them return to dwell with Him. "Temple ordinances and covenants lead to the greatest blessings available through the atonement of Jesus Christ," he noted. According to him, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints...

  The Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor, Mr. Fred Itua, has been honored with a prestigious award for Digitalization by Pinnacle Builder Homes and Properties in Benin City.  The award recognizes Mr. Itua's outstanding contributions to the media space, particularly in digitalizing the governor's activities and achievements. According to the CEO of Pinnacle Builder Homes and Properties, Samson Areladia, Mr. Itua's recognition is a testament to his dedication, commitment, and years of experience in the media world. He commended Mr. Itua for using digital platforms to enlighten the Edo public on the governor's activities and achievements. Receiving the award, Mr. Itua expressed surprise and gratitude, saying it was a motivation to continue delivering quality work. He dedicated the award to the Edo people, his colleagues in the media, and the governor, Monday Okpebholo, for providing him with the platform to serve. Mr. Itua advised public servants to put in their b...

  Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon Paul Ohonbamu  has directed  the new recruits of the Edo State Security Corps to  report at the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Permanent Camp,  Okada for training not later than Monday. A statement issued by the Commissioner in Benin City disclosed that the recruits who were given Thursday, 22, 2025 to report for training at the NYSC Camp, Okada should be there not later than Monday. According to the Commissioner, the  last day of reporting to the NYSC Camp for the training is Monday May 26,  2025. " Anyone not in the  NYSC Camp Okada by Monday  May 26, 2025 will not be allowed to join the training.  "The affected Local Government Areas are: Ovia South West, Ovia North East,, Uhunmwonde, Igueben  Esan North East, Esan South East, Etsako Central and Etsako East. Also expected to join the training are recruits from  Esan Central, Orhionmwon and Akoko Edo local g...

Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon Paul Ohonbamu  has directed  the new recruits of the Edo State Security Corps to  report at the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Permanent Camp,  Okada for training not later than Monday. A statement issued by the Commissioner in Benin City disclosed that the recruits who were given Thursday, 22, 2025 to report for training at the NYSC Camp, Okada should be there not later than Monday. According to the Commissioner, the  last day of reporting to the NYSC Camp for the training is Monday May 26,  2025. " Anyone not in the  NYSC Camp Okada by Monday  May 26, 2025 will not be allowed to join the training.  "The affected Local Government Areas are: Ovia South West, Ovia North East,, Uhunmwonde, Igueben  Esan North East, Esan South East, Etsako Central and Etsako East. "The recruits are expected to come along with two pairs of white round neck vest, two white pillow cases, one pa...

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has called on Nigerians to collaborate with the government at all levels to fight against poverty and hunger. The governor made the call at the New Festival Hall in Government House, Benin City, during the distribution of 13,000 10KG bags of rice donated by the Aliko Dangote Foundation to the vulnerable in the State. Governor Okpebholo said the fight against poverty and hunger is a collective responsibility of all Nigerians, noting that through partnerships, the government will build a more resilient, secure, and prosperous future for all. Represented by his deputy, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, the governor, said: "I express my heartfelt gratitude to the donor and his Foundation for this notable act of generosity and compassion. This donation is a testament to the Foundation's commitment to alleviating poverty and promoting food security as well as supporting the most vulnerable members of the society. "The initiative is to distribute ...

Edo State Government is resolute in the war against cultism,  just as landlords have been advised  to monitor their tenants to avoid the wrath of the law. The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon Paul Ohonbamu gave the advice  during a Press Conference in Benin City. According to the Commissioner, "any landlord whose building is discovered to be accommodating a cultist will face the wrath of the law. "The state government has declared that cult-related activities would be aggressively tackled, with perpetrators and their enablers facing the full weight of the law. "This firm stance justifies the demolition of buildings where crimes are committed, as part of efforts to eliminate criminal hideouts." Ohonbamu therefore urged landlords to monitor their tenants closely and avoid harbouring individuals involved in cultism or any form of criminality. While warning that property owners  found complicit in such activities would  face sanctions, Hon Ohonbam...

In every democratic society, civic rights—such as freedom of speech, assembly, and protest—are sacred. They empower the people to demand accountability, fairness, and justice. However, when these rights are misused to shield criminal behavior or promote illegitimate causes, they become distorted tools of manipulation rather than pillars of democracy. This is the inconvenient truth we face today in our battle against Cyber crime, particularly the rising tide of internet fraud, popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo.” Across Nigeria and other parts of Africa, the arrest of youths involved in internet fraud has become increasingly common. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has intensified its clampdown on these activities, and rightly so. These so-called “Yahoo boys” are not rebels fighting for justice—they are criminals exploiting technology to deceive, steal, and destroy lives, both locally and internationally. The damage they inflict on our society is immense, and their actio...

Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon Paul Ohonbamu has said that all successful candidates in the recently concluded selection exercise into the reorganized and restructured Edo State Security Corps have been sent text messages and they can also access Edo State Government website for further details- https://mco.edostate.gov.ng/training The Commissioner who disclosed this in a statement in Benin City noted that the restructured and reorganized Security Corps is one of Governor Monday Okpebholo's commitment to ensure the state is peaceful. According to him, the administration will not relent to protect the citizens and hold accountable all those responsible for violence and crime in the state.. "The government is determined to provide a well trained, equipped and accountable security Corps. "Edo State Government will ensure citizens basic needs are met, promote stability and reduce the likely hood of insecurity. "The government will always ta...

  The Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), a leading anti-corruption watchdog and human rights advocacy organization, has expressed strong support for the  decisive actions taken by the Executive Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, in response to the disturbing rise in criminal activities, particularly kidnapping, cultism, and violent crimes across the state. In a statement issued in Benin City, ANEEJ Executive Director, Rev. David Ugolor, commended the Governor for demonstrating the political will to confront crime head-on and for prioritizing the safety and welfare of Edo citizens.  He lauded the administration’s deployment of security resources, support for intelligence gathering, and targeted operations against criminal networks as clear indicators of responsive and courageous leadership. Rev. Ugolor emphasized, however, that the pursuit of justice must always be guided by the principles of the rule of law and respec...

  Edo State Government has appealed for patience from the people as efforts are made to make them happy with the development strides underway across the state. The government has commenced a series of interventions to make the people happy with the provision of  basic  living necessities and fixing of  dilapidated roads across the state. Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon Paul Ohonbamu who made the appeal in a statement in Benin City, noted that the Governor Monday Okpebholo led administration is aware of the various issues confronting the state,  including the bad spots on the roads in Benin City Metropolis. According to the Commissioner, the government has commenced  series of interventions to fix the problems in the state,  but the people should be patient with the administration just six months in office. "The State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo is keeping to his  promise to build roads  of the same standa...

Is the war against cultism in Edo State winnable? Yes, it is—and Governor Monday Okpebholo is demonstrating this with courage, clarity, and commitment. While cultism has long been a deeply entrenched menace in the social and criminal landscape of Edo State—festering in schools, communities, and even political spaces—the narrative is shifting. For the first time in a long time, we are witnessing a government not only speaking against cultism but taking decisive steps to dismantle its roots and consequences. Governor Okpebholo inherited a state bruised by cult-related violence, from senseless killings on campuses to brutal street reprisals in local government areas. It was a crisis that had, over the years, defied tokenistic responses. But what this administration is offering is not tokenism—it is strategy, backed by law, executed with resolve, and powered by a belief that safety is a right, not a privilege. Governor Okpebholo’s anti-cultism campaign is not just about today's safety—...

It is hereby announced for the information of the General Public that Edo State Government has presented a Staff of Office and letter of appointment to the new Okuokpellagbe of Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area of the State, His Royal Highness, Michael Eshioronoya Olorunfemi Sado. The Edo State Executive Council has revoked the appointment of Zaiki Ehi-Douglas Lucky Ehidiamen as the Onojie of Okhuesan in Esan South East Local Government Area of the State.  Zaiki Ehi-Douglas Lucky Ehidiamen was appointed to act as a Regent following the age limitation of the young Onogie in the community then.  The revocation is premised on the expiration of his Regency, which lasted for eighteen (18) years. Consequently, the Edo State Government has presented a Staff of Office and letter of appointment to the rightful Onogie of Okhuesan who has now come of age, HRH. Lucky Ehichioya Imhadojiemu as the Onojie of Okhuesan with effect from 30th April, 2025. In the same vein, the State...

 Members of Festus Keyamo Support Group have Congratulated Hon.(Barr.)  Ayibatonye Alari Timi on his appointment as Executive Director, South South Development Commission. The Festus Keyamo Support Group in a statement issued by the Director General, Comrade Anthony Akpeki described the appointment as a testament to the unwavering commitment of Hon. Ayibatonye Alari Timi to the social,  economic development of the South South region. "It is with immense pleasure that we extend our heartfelt congratulations to you for this appointment. "Your visionary leadership has inspired countless individuals and we are convinced without doubt that your appointment will be a pivotal force to positive change in the South South region. "We are confident that this appointment will serve as a source of motivation for you and other young aspiring Nigerians as you embark on this new endeavour that will further uplift our communities. "Once again, Congratulations for this well deserved ...

  As Governor Monday Okpebholo marks six months in office, the government of Edo State proudly reflects on a period defined by decisive leadership, people-centred policies, and visible progress across critical sectors. Since assuming office in November 2024, Governor Okpebholo has demonstrated a relentless commitment to the welfare of Edo people and the restoration of public confidence in government. His administration has focused on delivering good governance, reviving public institutions, and addressing long-standing infrastructural challenges. Within 24 hours of his swearing-in, the Governor flagged off the reconstruction of the Teboga-Uteh-Ugbowo Road in Benin City, a project long neglected but crucial in tackling perennial  flooding and traffic congestion on the Uselu-Ugbowo axis.  Today, road construction and rehabilitation are ongoing across Edo South, Central, and North Senatorial Districts, without the usual excuses of state or federal ownership. For Governor Okp...

By Williams Adesoji Prominent Nigerian social critic and human rights activist, Comrade Igbotako Nowinta, has challenged President Bola Tinubu, to compel the Inspector General of Police, (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, to immediately give directives to make bail a truly free affair in all the police stations across Nigeria. Comrade Nowinta, an international conflict resolution expert, who doubles as the Executive - Director, Nigeria Good Governance Research Centre (NGGRC), made this call on Monday May 12th, 2025, via a press release titled :"Enough Of Deception About 'Bail Is Free' Within The Nigeria Policing System: President Tinubu Must Act Now", which he gave to journalists in Abuja. Meanwhile, in a bold step toward the protection and promotion of human rights in Nigeria, Civil Society activists in Edo/ Delta, successfully secured the unconditional release of two innocent citizens, Umukoro Henry and Godfrey Jonah yesterday, who were wrongfully arrested and detained on alle...

Edo State Government  has approved the  Renovation of the Burnt Oba market in fulfilment of the promises made by Governor Monday Okpebholo. This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon Paul Ohonbamu after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by the Governor and Chairman-in-Council in Benin City. He said, during the campaigns, Governor Monday Okpebholo promised to rebuild the Oba market which was burnt. Today, Exco has approved the renovation of the entire Oba market, including the burnt areas. According to the Commissioner, EXCO also approved  the construction of road to the village of his immediate predecessor, Mr Godwin Obaseki. Hon Ohonbamu said, ex-Governor Obaseki betrayed his people by failing to construct the road leading to his own village. He noted that Governor Okpebholo who is leading an all inclusive administration, believes that development must be universal and has therefore approved the construction of the road...

Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon Paul Ohonbamu has called on all registered recruits into the reorganized  Edo State Security Corps to go for interview and selection at the Designated venues. According to the Commissioner in a statement in Benin City, the selection process commenced on Monday,  May 12, 2025 simultaneously in Edo South, Central and North "The selection dates for the Local Government Areas in Edo South Senatorial District  are, Ovia South West Local Government Area- Monday  May 12, and Tuesday May 13, 2025; Ovia North East LGA,- Wednesday May 14, 2025 and Thursday May 15, 2025; Uhuonmwode LGA - Friday May 16, 2025 and Saturday May 17, 2025: Orhionmwon LGA- Sunday May 18th, 2025 and Monday May 19th 2025; Ikpoba Okha LGA- Tuesday May 20 2025 and Wednesday May 21, 2025; Egor LGA- Thursday 22, May 2025 and Friday 23 May 2025; Oredo LGA- Saturday May 24, 2025 and Sunday May 25, 2025. In Edo Central, the selection dates are, Esa...