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EDO STATE GOVERNOR, OKPEBHOLO, CONFIDENT PDP’S APPEAL WILL FAIL AT APPELLATE COURT

CapitalTimesNews / 3 weeks

2 min read

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has expressed confidence that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo’s appeal will crash at the Appellate Court. Governor Okpebholo made this statement while speaking at Okaijesan Town Hall, Irrua, during the celebration of his election Tribunal victory hosted by Edo Central leaders. In a statement, The Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua, said Governor Okpebholo thanked Edo people for their support and prayers and assured them that his administration would continue with the current pace of developmental strides. “The opposition party has been talking and shouting, but Edo people spoke very clear and loud with their votes on September 21, 2024. Edo people voted for the right person in Senator Monday Okpebholo,” Governor Okpebholo said. Itua stated that Governor Okpebholo noted that Asue Ighodalo and the PDP have declared their intention to challenge the verdict of the election petition tribunal ruling, which gave him and his party victory on Wednesday. Governor Okpebholo said Asue Ighodalo and PDP are both free to appeal the ruling, as he assured them that they will fail at the Appeal Court. Fred Itua quoted Governor Okpebholo as saying, “We have defeated them at the Tribunal, and they said they want to appeal the ruling. If they like, let them appeal and even get to the Supreme Court. We will defeat them.” Governor Okpebholo also revealed plans by his administration to develop Esan land through road infrastructure, noting that his administration has awarded a contract to dualise the old road from Ekpoma to Ubiaja. Itua noted that Governor Okpebholo said the road project will boost economic activities in the area. “I know the problem of Edo State and Esan land. I have already awarded the old road from Ekpoma to Ubiaja to be dualized. There will be much space to enable vehicles to pass freely without hitting each other,” Governor Okpebholo said. Fred Itua stated that Governor Okpebholo also promised that his administration will fulfill its campaign promises, including providing soft loans to interested individuals.

TRIBUNAL VICTORY: REDEFINING THE ROLE OF OPPOSITION POLITICS IN EDO STATE

CapitalTimesNews / 3 weeks
0
4 min read

By Fred Itua The recent ruling of the Edo State Election Petition Tribunal, which saw the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lose its bid to overturn the election victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo, marks a defining moment in the state’s political landscape. While elections and legal challenges are essential aspects of democracy, what follows is even more crucial—the role of the opposition in ensuring governance is accountable, effective, and people-centered. However, this must be pursued in a manner that prioritizes the development and stability of Edo State rather than fueling acrimony, political tension, and divisive rhetoric. A vibrant opposition plays a crucial role in strengthening democracy. It is expected to provide constructive criticism, propose alternative policies, and ensure that the ruling government remains accountable to the people. However, for this role to be beneficial, it must be driven by the genuine interest of the people rather than personal vendettas, obstructionist tactics, or an attempt to undermine the legitimacy of the government. In Edo State, the focus should now shift from post-election bitterness to responsible opposition politics. The people of Edo have made their decision through the ballot, and the legal process has affirmed it. It is now imperative that the opposition, especially the PDP, restrategizes its approach by offering meaningful policy alternatives rather than engaging in actions that could destabilize governance. One of the most damaging aspects of opposition politics in Nigeria is the tendency for acrimonious engagements that serve only to inflame tensions rather than address pressing governance issues. When opposition leaders resort to inciting the public against the government, spreading misinformation, or engaging in character assassination, they create an environment of hostility that hinders governance rather than improving it. Edo State cannot afford to be embroiled in unnecessary political squabbles that distract from the task of development. The challenges before the Okpebholo-led administration require cooperation, innovative thinking, and a commitment to service delivery. Any opposition that seeks to continuously heat up the polity for selfish political gains is doing a disservice to the very people it claims to represent. True opposition is not about opposing for opposition’s sake; it is about providing credible alternatives and engaging constructively with the government of the day. There are many pressing issues in Edo State—economic development, infrastructure, education, security, and healthcare—that require the collective input of all stakeholders, including the opposition. Rather than staging protests or engaging in campaigns to delegitimize the government, the opposition should leverage democratic institutions such as the State House of Assembly, public discourse forums, and the media to articulate well-thought-out policy alternatives. Political parties that lost at the polls should focus on rebuilding, strengthening their grassroots engagement, and preparing robust policy proposals that can win public support in future elections. Democracy thrives when all parties respect the electoral process and its outcomes. The people of Edo have chosen their leader, and the court has validated this choice. Any attempt to undermine Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration through disruptive tactics would not only be undemocratic but also counterproductive. The opposition must recognize that its role is not to create instability but to ensure that governance is people-centered and effective. As Edo State moves forward, it is time for all political actors to set aside differences and focus on governance. The ruling party must be open to constructive criticism, while the opposition must act responsibly, engaging in issues-based politics rather than resorting to acrimony. The interest of Edo people must remain paramount, and every political action should be geared toward their well-being and progress. Governor Monday Okpebholo has a mandate to govern, and he must be given the space to deliver on his promises. The opposition, rather than being an obstacle, should be a partner in ensuring that democracy works for everyone. Politics should be a contest of ideas, not a battleground of personal or party rivalries. Edo State deserves better, and it is only through responsible and constructive engagement that true progress can be achieved. Fred Itua is the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor.

EDO STATE GOVERNOR WINS TRIBUNAL VICTORY, EXTENDS OLIVE BRANCH TO OPPOSITION

CapitalTimesNews / 3 weeks

2 min read

The Elections Tribunal has upheld the victory of Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, dismissing all claims by the opposition. The Tribunal’s verdict validates the overwhelming support demonstrated by the citizens and residents of Edo State during the election. In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua, said Governor Okpebholo wishes to express his profound gratitude to the Tribunal for their diligence and fairness. Itua noted that the Governor also extends his sincere appreciation to the people of Edo State for their unwavering support and belief in his vision for a prosperous and united state. “This victory is not mine alone, but a victory for every citizen and resident of Edo State. It is a mandate to continue the work we have started, to build a state where everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” Governor Okpebholo said, as stated by Itua. Fred Itua emphasized that the Governor remains committed to his promise of good governance, transparency, and inclusive development. The Governor has called upon all citizens, including the opposition and the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Asue Ighodalo, to join hands in the spirit of unity and work together for the progress of Edo State. Itua reiterated that the administration of Governor Okpebholo remains focused on delivering on its campaign promises and will not be distracted by frivolous litigation. Fred Itua stated that the administration is committed to serving the people of Edo State with dedication and integrity.

SINNER DOMINATES ZVEREV TO WIN SECOND CONSECUTIVE AUSTRALIAN OPEN TITLE

Nicolas Adekeye / 3 months

2 min read

Jannik Sinner proved to be the superior player as he outplayed and frustrated Alexander Zverev to win the Australian Open championship 6-3, 7-6 (4), 6-3 on Sunday. The 23-year-old Italian’s dominant performance earned him his second consecutive title at the tournament. Sinner’s impressive stats included facing zero break points, accumulating 10 break points, and winning 27-13 in points that lasted at least nine strokes. He also had more winners (32) and fewer unforced errors (27) than Zverev, who had 25 winners and 45 unforced errors. Zverev, who is ranked No. 2 behind Sinner, was impressed by Sinner’s performance, saying, “You’re the best player in the world, by far. I was hoping that I could be more of a competitor today, but you’re just too good. It’s as simple as that.” Nadal Sinner’s victory marked several milestones, including being the youngest man to win back-to-back Australian Open titles since Jim Courier in 1992-93. He is also the first man to repeat as champion at the same Grand Slam tournament since Rafael Nadal at the French Open in 2005-06. Sinner has been on a roll since the start of 2024, winning three of the five major tournaments, including the U.S. Open in September. His record in that span is 80-6, with nine tournament titles. He is currently on a 21-match unbeaten streak. Zverev, on the other hand, is now 0-3 in Grand Slam finals, adding this loss to his previous defeats at the 2020 U.S. Open and the 2024 French Open. “We’re trying to do all the right work,” Zverev said. “I’m just not good enough.” The match was not without controversy, as a spectator shouted out a comment about Zverev’s past allegations of physical abuse during the trophy ceremony. Zverev has denied the allegations. Sinner’s victory was a testament to his all-around style, which appears to have no holes. He applied pressure with his deep groundstrokes and used his long limbs to deliver passing shots. As he accepted his trophy, Sinner said, “It’s amazing to achieve these things.”

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EDO STATE GOVERNOR, OKPEBHOLO, CONFIDENT PDP’S APPEAL WILL FAIL AT APPELLATE COURT

TRIBUNAL VICTORY: REDEFINING THE ROLE OF OPPOSITION POLITICS IN EDO STATE

EDO STATE GOVERNOR WINS TRIBUNAL VICTORY, EXTENDS OLIVE BRANCH TO OPPOSITION

SINNER DOMINATES ZVEREV TO WIN SECOND CONSECUTIVE AUSTRALIAN OPEN TITLE

DSS ARREST BRITISH ARMY OFFICER, RECOVERS.

OPINION: A NEW DAWN FOR NEW.

MILWAUKEE JUDGE ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY HELPING.

NUC TO INTRODUCE 12 NEW COURSES.

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