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EDO GOVERNMENT HITS BACK AT PDP OVER ALLEGATIONS AGAINST GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO

The Edo State Government has responded to allegations made by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against Governor Monday Okpebholo, describing the claims as “reckless, misleading, and malicious”. In a statement, Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua, said the PDP’s statement was a “shameful display of the PDP’s consistent obsession with fabricating lies” against the Governor and the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration. Itua stated that the PDP’s tenure in power was defined by deceit, maladministration, and a relentless assault on truth and transparency, making them morally unfit to lecture on constitutional order or democratic values. “It is hypocritical for the same PDP that has consistently desecrated the rule of law through executive impunity and abuse of office to now quote the Electoral Act in a dishonest attempt to score cheap political points,” Itua said. The government warned that PDP officials, including Chris Nehikhare, would be held accountable for their allegations against Governor Okpebholo and other public officials. “Enough is enough. These unfounded and unsubstantiated claims have no bearing on the truth, and they constitute a deliberate effort to mislead the public, disrupt governance, and cause disaffection in the State,” Itua added. Fred Itua further accused the PDP of turning political discourse into a “theatre of lies and bitterness” and claimed they had resolved to destabilize Edo State through misinformation and character assassination. However, the government assured that Governor Okpebholo’s administration would not be distracted and remains focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Edo State. “Edo belongs to all of us, and no amount of bitterness or false propaganda will derail the will of the people or slow down the pace of development,” Itua emphasized. The government warned PDP leaders to desist from peddling falsehoods or provide evidence for their claims at the right time.

UROMI KILLINGS: FG, EDO STATE GOVERNMENT SET UP FACT-FINDING COMMITTEE

The Federal Government, in collaboration with the Edo State Government, has established a fact-finding committee to investigate the recent killings of hunters in Uromi, Edo State. This was disclosed by Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Thursday, April 10, 2025, when he received a high-powered delegation from Kano State led by Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo at the Government House in Benin City. Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua, stated that Governor Okpebholo revealed the committee’s formation to address the incident. Fred Itua noted that the Governor emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dissatisfaction with the incident and his determination to ensure the state and nation are safe for everyone. “The President personally wants to see to the end of this issue,” Governor Okpebholo said. Fred Itua further explained that the committee aims to identify the remote causes of the incident and implement lasting solutions. The delegation from Kano State, led by Comrade Gwarzo, expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for his earlier visit to Kano and appreciated the peaceful steps he took regarding the Uromi incident. They submitted a report detailing their findings, including the names, numbers, next of kin, and survivors of the attack. “Sixteen persons lost their dear lives from five local government areas of Kano State,” Gwarzo explained. Fred Itua confirmed that this report will aid the committee’s investigation. Governor Okpebholo assured the delegation that justice will be served and emphasized the need for transparency in the process. The committee’s findings will be made public to ensure accountability. The incident has sparked concerns about security and inter-state relations, with both governments committed to addressing the issue and ensuring the safety of all citizens. Present during the visit were Deputy Governor of Edo State, Hon. Dennis Idahosa; Speaker Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Blessing Agbebaku; security heads; and senior government officials from both states. The Governor and the Kano delegation also met with members of the Hausa community in Uromi. Fred Itua signed the statement, highlighting the governments’ commitment to resolving the issue.

GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO LAUNCHES 2027 RE-ELECTION CAMPAIGN FOR PRESIDENT TINUBU IN EDO STATE

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced the commencement of campaigns for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. The disclosure was made in a statement by Chief Press Secretary Fred Itua, following the defection of Uhunmwonde State Constituency lawmaker, Hon. Kaycee Osamwonyi, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Itua reported that Governor Okpebholo received Osamwonyi, a member of the Edo State House of Assembly Committee on Budget and Appropriation, at the Government House in Benin City on Wednesday. The lawmaker was presented to the governor by APC Edo State Chairman Jarrett Tenebe, who described the defection as a testament to the ruling party’s growing influence. The governor commended Osamwonyi and four other recently defected lawmakers, assuring them of his administration’s commitment to fostering collaboration and development across the state. “Your coming is a plus for the party. A lot of people from other political parties are ready to join us, and soon there will be a carnival,” Okpebholo said. He emphasized ongoing efforts to revitalize Edo’s economy, stating, “We have to mobilize the youths in our state. I promise you will enjoy our party as you have chosen to join us.” Tenebe asserted that the APC now holds a majority in the Edo State House of Assembly, citing Governor Okpebholo’s “developmental strides” as a key factor in attracting defectors. Osamwonyi, in his remarks, attributed his decision to the PDP’s internal divisions and the governor’s performance. “The several projects captured in the budget for Uhunmwonde people are impressive. I had no choice but to join the party for the development of my people,” he said. Itua noted that the governor specifically highlighted plans to prioritize infrastructure and youth engagement in Uhunmwonde Local Government, vowing to “open the area for growth.” The statement concluded with Okpebholo reaffirming Edo’s readiness to support President Tinubu’s re-election bid, declaring, “We have kick-started our own campaigns for the president in 2027.” Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary, reiterated the administration’s focus on bipartisan cooperation, quoting the governor’s pledge to “create a conducive atmosphere for all to operate.” The defection ceremony marked the latest in a series of political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.

POLICE SERVICE COMMISSION APPOINTS NEW COMMISSIONER OF POLICE FOR EDO STATE

The Police Service Commission has approved the appointment of Monday Agbonika as the new Commissioner of Police for Edo State. He takes over from CP Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin. Agbonika was at the Police Service Commission for a posting interview, which was presided over by Chairman of the Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu. The Head, Press and Public Relations, Ikechukwu Ani, stated that the leadership of the Commission charged the new Commissioner to be proactive and to settle down quickly to reduce the crime rate in the state. Ani noted that Agbonika was also advised to look into the issues surrounding the recent killings in the state and to work towards preventing reprisals. Ikechukwu Ani stated that the Commission reminded Agbonika that his success in the state would depend on how he handles the arrested suspects from the recent killings. The Commission also advised him to “sit up and also work to win the confidence of the people, consult relevant stakeholders and always document every incident and action taken.” Ani noted that Agbonika promised the Commission that he would stand by relevant laws in the discharge of his duties and would always depend on the Inspector General of Police for necessary guidance. Ikechukwu Ani stated that Agbonika is a seasoned Police Officer with 32 years of experience, covering operations, investigation, administration, police public information, and area/divisional police management. Agbonika was until his posting, Commissioner of Police, Mounted Troop, Force Equitation Officer, Force Headquarters. Ikechukwu Ani stated that he has held various positions, including Commissioner of Police Communications (Operations), Deputy Commissioner Interpol, and Area Commander in several states.

GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO SUSPENDS ILLEGAL VIGILANTE GROUPS, SECURITY COMMANDER AFTER UROMI KILLINGS

The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal vigilante groups operating in the state following the gruesome killing of travelers in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area on Thursday, March 27, 2025. Governor Monday Okpebholo also suspended the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), as investigations into the incident continue. In a special announcement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, the government clarified that the vigilante group involved in the killings was operating illegally, as it was neither profiled nor registered with the Edo State Security Corps. The statement emphasized that the group’s actions do not align with the values of the Okpebholo administration or the objectives of the state’s security laws. A special team set up by the Inspector General of Police is conducting an intensive manhunt for suspects, with fourteen persons already arrested in connection with the incident. The government assured the public that justice would be served transparently and efficiently. The statement reiterated the state’s commitment to the constitutional rights of citizens to move freely and conduct lawful business anywhere in the country. Authorities are also in contact with the families of the victims, community leaders, and the Kano State Government, as most of the deceased were reportedly from Kano. “We urge all parties involved to remain calm as the State Government remains committed to ensuring that justice is done in a most efficient, transparent, and proactive manner,” the statement read. Further updates will be provided as investigations progress.

PRESIDENT TINUBU ORDERS MANHUNT FOR KILLERS OF HUNTERS IN EDO

President Bola Tinubu has ordered a manhunt for the killers of traveling hunters intercepted by local vigilantes in the Uromi community of Esan North Local Government in Edo State. The President condemned the act, describing it as a dastardly crime. In a statement, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy) Bayo Onanuga said Tinubu expressed shock over the incident and directed the Police and other security agencies to conduct a swift and thorough investigation to apprehend and punish the culprits. Onanuga stated that the President commiserated with the families of the victims and assured them that criminals would not be allowed to shed the blood of innocent Nigerians. He emphasized that jungle justice has no place in Nigeria and reaffirmed the right of all citizens to move freely within the country. The statement further noted that Tinubu commended Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and Uromi community leaders for their swift response to prevent an escalation of tension. Onanuga added that the President remains committed to ensuring justice and security for all Nigerians. The statement was issued on March 28, 2025.

GOV OKPEBHOLO ORDERS PROBE INTO KILLING OF 7 SUSPECTED KIDNAPPERS IN UROMI, CONDEMNS ACT AS BARBARIC

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the killing of seven persons in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, describing the act as barbaric. The Governor condemned the setting ablaze of the suspected kidnappers by residents of the community, vowing to ensure that the perpetrators face the full wrath of the law. In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, the Governor was quoted as saying that such acts of mob justice are unacceptable in the state. Represented by the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Government House, SP Solomon Osaghale, Governor Okpebholo stressed that nobody has the right to take another person’s life, no matter the circumstances. SP Osaghale, who was dispatched to Uromi to assess the situation, revealed that the victims were passengers in a commercial truck when they were stopped by local security operatives. A search of the vehicle reportedly uncovered firearms, leading to a mob attack. He confirmed that four persons have been arrested in connection with the incident. Fred Itua stated that the Governor has directed the Commissioner of Police to launch a thorough investigation to ensure justice and prevent future occurrences. The CSO assured residents, particularly the Hausa community in Uromi, of their safety, noting that security personnel have been deployed to maintain peace. The leader of the Hausa community in Uromi, Mallam Aliyu Haruna, expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for his swift response. Haruna described the incident as unprecedented, emphasizing the longstanding peaceful coexistence between indigenes and the Hausa community, some of whom have lived in the area for over 70 years. Fred Itua reiterated the Governor’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and fostering a secure environment for all residents. He urged the public to remain calm and allow law enforcement agencies to conclude their investigations. The statement was signed by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, on Friday, March 28, 2025.

EDO STATE POLITICAL FEUD: SHAIBU ACCUSES OBASEKI OF $300,000 DECEPTION

A high-stakes political feud has erupted in Edo State, with former Deputy Governor Phillip Shaibu leveling explosive allegations against his erstwhile boss, Governor Godwin Obaseki. In a shocking revelation, Shaibu claims Obaseki deceived him out of $300,000, which he contributed to support the governor’s political ambitions. Shaibu recounted the incident, stating that Obaseki had requested the funds to lobby party leaders in Port Harcourt ahead of a crucial election, promising to add $700,000 to the amount. However, Shaibu alleged that the money was never used for its intended purpose and that Obaseki had essentially duped him. The former deputy governor expressed his financial struggles in repaying the $300,000, which he had borrowed. He also called on prominent PDP leaders to corroborate his claims, seeking to expose Obaseki’s alleged betrayal. Shaibu’s allegations come on the heels of his impeachment as deputy governor in 2023. He described Obaseki’s actions as “an act of wickedness,” citing the sacrifices he made for their political partnership, only to be repaid with deception and betrayal.

TASK FORCE OPERATIVES STORM KIDNAPPERS’ HIDEOUTS IN EDO CENTRAL

In a bold move to tackle kidnapping, the Edo State Government stormed a major hideout used by kidnappers in Esan North-East Local Government Area, Edo Central Senatorial District, on Friday. The Task Force cleared abandoned structures and thick bushes along the Uzea-Itakpe railway corridor, a notorious transit point for kidnappers. According to Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Mr. Akhere Paul, the area has been a hotspot for kidnappings, affecting both the wealthy and poor, including farmers. “If they kidnap people here, they bring them to this hideout, rest, and then move them to other locations… As a government, we will not rest until kidnapping is eradicated in Edo State,” he stated. The Commander of the Task Force, SP Michael Anetor, emphasized that intelligence reports and recent arrests informed the demolition exercise. “These abandoned houses and dense trees serve as their operational base… We will sustain our crackdown on criminal elements to restore safety in the area,” Anetor explained. Some residents confirmed that the abandoned structures and overgrown vegetation had long served as hideouts for criminals, allowing them to monitor potential victims before launching attacks. The operation is part of the state government’s efforts to eliminate criminal hideouts and improve security surveillance in the area.

EDO STATE GOVERNOR VOWS TO BRING PERPETRATORS OF OVAS KILLINGS TO JUSTICE

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has vowed to ensure that those responsible for the February 21 killings in seven communities of Ovia South West Local Government Area are brought to justice. He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring lasting peace and security in the area. In a statement, Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua, said Governor Okpebholo made the vow during an on-the-spot assessment visit to the affected communities. Itua stated that the Governor pledged to facilitate the establishment of a police outpost to prevent future attacks and enhance security. “From the testimonies I have heard and the investigations conducted, these are criminals who invade your farms to steal the crops you have laboured for. As a Government, we will go after them. I assure you that you will live here in peace. Our actions will prove that lasting peace is coming,” Governor Okpebholo declared. Itua said the Governor urged the residents to remain calm and not take the law into their hands, assuring them of Government intervention. “I understand your pain, but I urge you to take heart. Do not fight anyone or resort to violence. Maintain the peace as you have been doing. I assure you that we will work here so you can feel the presence of the government and experience real development,” Governor Okpebholo stated. Fred Itua noted that Governor Okpebholo also met with leaders and members of Gbelebe, a neighbouring Ijaw community, where he sued for harmony and assured them of government support. “My core mission as Governor is to restore peace and bring development. Without peace, there can be no progress. These killings and conflicts must stop,” Governor Okpebholo assured. Itua stated that leaders from Madoti and Gbelebe communities recounted that the crisis erupted when hoodlums attempted to steal farm produce from farmers in Madoti’s farm settlements but were confronted by a newly formed local vigilante group. They lamented the long-standing menace of farm theft and pleaded with the Governor to intensify efforts in protecting lives and property, ensuring that farmers could work without fear of attacks, Itua said.