Analysis
THE DISHEARTENING ETHNIC SLURS AGAINST GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO
By Fred Itua
The Nigerian Constitution is clear and unambiguous about the position of a governor. Section 176(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) states that “the Governor of a State shall be the Chief Executive of that State.” By implication, a governor is not the leader of one senatorial district, ethnic group, or political faction. He is entrusted with the sacred responsibility of governing the entire state and safeguarding the collective welfare of all its citizens, irrespective of origin or affiliation.
Governor Monday Okpebholo has, from the outset of his administration, embraced this constitutional mandate with clarity and consistency. He has shown through both words and actions that he is a detribalised leader who sees Edo State as one indivisible entity. For him, leadership is not about pandering to sectional interests but about building bridges, correcting historical neglect, and laying a foundation for sustainable growth across all three senatorial districts.
It is within this constitutional and moral framework that we must understand the Governor’s policies and priorities. The distribution of projects and appointments has not been arbitrary. Rather, it reflects deliberate choices aimed at balance, fairness, and long-term impact. Edo South, in particular, has been a major beneficiary of these interventions, both in terms of infrastructure and political representation.
Governor Okpebholo’s vision for Edo South is evident in the scale and scope of projects already underway. The Benin–Abraka Road reconstruction, awarded at ₦21.22 billion, stands out as a landmark intervention. This critical road, stretching over 100 kilometers, had long been a nightmare for commuters, farmers, and traders. By investing in its full rehabilitation, the administration is opening economic corridors that will boost commerce and ease mobility for thousands daily.
Similarly, the Benin–Sapele Road reconstruction has become a symbol of relief for Edo people. The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Works, had terminated the earlier contract due to poor performance. Stepping into the breach, Governor Okpebholo has ensured that a 23-kilometre section is now being delivered at a cost of ₦35 billion, giving commuters and businesses renewed hope that this vital artery will no longer be a death trap but a channel of prosperity.
In the state capital, Benin City, the Governor has embarked on one of the most ambitious urban renewal projects in decades; the Rahmat Park Flyover. For years, traffic congestion at that junction has been a blight on productivity, wasting countless man-hours and stifling commercial activity.
The flyover, once completed, will not only ease movement but will also stand as a symbol of Edo’s transition into modernity. Complementing this is the Agbor Park Bypass, a long-neglected route that is now receiving the attention it deserves, further decongesting the capital city and improving connectivity for commuters.
Beyond roads, the administration is investing heavily in human development. The Stella Obasanjo Hospital Complex is undergoing a comprehensive reconstruction to transform it into a world-class facility capable of delivering quality healthcare to Edo people. This intervention is not just about bricks and mortar but about safeguarding lives and building a healthier future for the state.
Equally transformative is the Edo Tech City Project, designed to make the state a hub for digital innovation. In an era defined by artificial intelligence, data science, and digital enterprise, Governor Okpebholo is positioning Edo youths to compete globally. This initiative will generate jobs, nurture creativity, and ensure that Edo South and the wider state are not left behind in the fourth industrial revolution.
Other ongoing interventions underscore the Governor’s inclusive vision for Edo South. In education, the Okhoro–Egor axis is witnessing the reconstruction of several dilapidated primary and secondary schools, with modern classrooms, laboratories, and ICT centres being delivered to give children access to 21st-century learning.
In housing, the administration has rolled out the first phase of an affordable housing scheme near the Ugbowo axis to address urban population growth while providing decent shelter for middle – and low-income earners.
In rural electrification, Governor Okpebholo has extended the state’s power initiative to underserved communities around Ovia and Orhionmwon, installing solar mini-grids and rehabilitating distribution lines to ensure villages once cut off from modern life are now connected to power. Water supply, too, is being restored through the revival of moribund borehole and reticulation projects across Ikpoba-Okha and Egor, bringing relief to thousands of households.
While infrastructure often attracts the most attention, it is important to emphasize that Edo South has also benefitted from political balance under this administration. The Governor has made key appointments into strategic offices from the senatorial district. Commissioner nominations, too, have favoured Edo South more than other zones. This is not accidental; it reflects the Governor’s inclusive approach to governance.
By ensuring that Edo South is not only developed but also represented in decision-making, Governor Okpebholo is living out the constitutional principle that a governor is the father of all, not a sectional leader. It is, therefore, both uncharitable and inaccurate for any group to suggest that the district has been marginalised.
Sadly, instead of consolidating on these gains, some voices have chosen the path of discord, attempting to blackmail the government over commissioner appointments. Such agitation is both needless and counterproductive.
Edo does not need distractions. Edo does not need infighting. Edo does not need political undercutting. What the state needs at this defining moment is unity of purpose, collective resolve, and support for a Governor who is delivering on his promises.
The lessons of history are clear. The great legacies of Dr. Samuel Ogbemudia and Professor Ambrose Alli in the old Bendel and Midwestern States were not achieved in an atmosphere of division or petty grievances. They were built on a shared commitment to progress, where leaders and citizens alike transcended narrow interests to pursue the greater good. Today, Governor Okpebholo is treading the same path; firm, focused, and detribalised in outlook.
Governor Okpebholo has chosen the harder path, the path of legacy, not expediency. He is investing in projects that will outlive political cycles and redefine the future of Edo State. For this vision to be realised, every son and daughter of Edo must rise above narrow interests and rally behind him.
The future of our state depends on the choices we make today. Do we embrace unity, or do we succumb to division? Do we support progress, or do we allow distractions to derail us? The answer must be clear. Edo South, and indeed all of Edo State, stand to gain immensely from the consolidation of Governor Okpebholo’s developmental strides.
Let us, therefore, choose wisely. Let us choose unity over division, legacy over fleeting ambition, and progress over regression. With Governor Okpebholo’s vision and the collective will of the people, Edo State will not only rise to greatness but will take its rightful place as a model of development and good governance in Nigeria.
Fred Itua is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State
Analysis
Ozoro Festival Scandal Sparks National Debate on ‘Weaponised Traditions’ and Cultural Reform
The controversy surrounding the Ozoro Festival in Delta State has ignited a nationwide debate over harmful cultural practices, following viral videos showing acts of sexual violence and widespread outrage across Nigeria.
The scandal has led to the arrest of six suspects by the police, including a community leader, but many Nigerians argue that the response falls short of justice and fails to address deeper cultural issues.
Critics have described the Ozoro Alue-Do Festival as a “weaponised tradition,” accusing it of reinforcing misogyny and enabling abuse under the guise of cultural celebration. Some members of the Isoko community, however, insist the issue is being misrepresented.
A female indigene, who spoke anonymously, condemned what she described as systemic discrimination against women within the culture, alleging that harmful practices are often excused and victims silenced.
“Women are blamed even in cases of abuse, while perpetrators are shielded,” she said, pointing to long-standing traditions that, in her view, enable injustice.
But cultural analyst Anote Ajelouruo cautioned against sweeping generalisations, arguing that the festival’s origins must be understood within historical context.
He noted that fertility rites were common in many ancient societies and said isolated incidents of misconduct should not define an entire cultural heritage.
“Every society had practices shaped by limited knowledge at the time. What matters is ensuring such traditions are not hijacked or abused,” he said.
Lessons from Ibadan
Observers say reform is possible, pointing to the transformation of the Oke’Badan Festival in Ibadan, which has evolved from a chaotic and unsafe event into a structured cultural celebration.
Journalist and historian Temilade Adeyemi recalled that the festival was once notorious for harassment of women, with vulgar displays and public misconduct.
Today, however, it is widely regarded as a symbol of cultural pride, featuring organised performances and safer participation for women.
Path to Reform
Experts say any attempt to reform the Ozoro Festival must be driven by the community, with traditional leaders playing a central role in redefining its purpose.
They also stress the importance of accountability, urging authorities to ensure that those arrested are prosecuted to rebuild public trust.
Increased participation of women in planning and decision-making is seen as critical to reshaping the festival into a safer and more inclusive event.
Analysts further recommend sustained public education and media engagement to highlight positive cultural values while discouraging harmful practices.
Uncertain Future
Despite the outrage, questions remain over whether meaningful reform will take place or if the festival will continue to attract criticism.
For now, attention remains on both community leaders and law enforcement authorities, as Nigerians watch closely to see whether the incident will mark a turning point or another missed opportunity for change.
By AVM Rtd Akugbe Iyamu MNSA fsi
Extreme weather conditions are unexpected, unusual or severe weather events that fall outside normal patterns, often causing significant disruption, damage to infrastructure, and environmental destruction.
Examples include heatwaves, intense hurricanes, flooding, severe droughts, and tornadoes. These events are becoming more frequent due to climate change.
Nigeria is a country perpetually under elections frenzy: campaigning, off cycle and other electoral activities. These political manifestations always offered little attention to key areas of the environment that threatens economic growth and development, security and poverty, inequality and hunger. As of early 2026, Nigeria hosts over 3.7 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) driven from their homes by conflict, insecurity, and climate disasters. The vast majority of this displacement is concentrated in the North-East and North-West regions, with around 3,900 camps and host communities providing temporary shelter. Currently, Africa is experiencing intensified extreme weather events driven by climate change, primarily manifested as severe droughts, devastating floods, and extreme heatwaves. These events, such as the 2020-2023 Horn of Africa drought and 2024 regional flooding, are becoming more frequent, severely impacting food security, agriculture, and infrastructure.
For instance the death situation in Kenya has risen to 66 and Ethiopia 125 deaths with 11,000 displaced. This is a clear and present danger to Africa and is likely to stretch the existing response measures. At this point NIHSA, NiMet and other agencies need to be called out to show visible signs to the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction. At this point, the country need more emphasis in advising all stakeholders to shift from reactive to proactive climate-informed planning to ensure food security and protect infrastructure. Nigeria need to step up preparation against what we see coming as extreme weather in 2026. From the situations in Ethiopia and Kenya, it is obvious that 2026 will be characterized by variable rainfall and cyclone bomb. We have seen prolonged dry spells, and higher-than-average temperatures early in the year that have threatened the health and security of Nigerians. Based on the 2026 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) unveiled by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on February 10, 2026, the country need to do more. Judging from the heavy snow in the northern hemisphere, nigeria need key preparations that include using AI for better forecasting, tailored agricultural advice, and flood warning systems.
2026 should not be treated like other years. With insecurity, poverty, inequality, high taxation, higher borrowings and higher energy costs, negligence will unravel the economy and underbelly of Nigeria energy security system. Time to act is now because there are too many negatives conflating the country and we have to solve the issues of environmental challenges because when you lack the structure, you attract rupture.
The Federal Government, through the National Orientation Agency (NOA) should be promoting the dissemination of the SCP to local farmers to ensure it directly informs field decisions.
AVM RTD AKUGBE IYAMU MNSA fsi
CONSULTANT ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND ANALYST ON ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES
PRESIDENT ASSOCIATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND CLIMATE CHANGE PRACTITIONERS
FFK Raises Fresh Questions Over El-Rufai’s Actions, Security Allegations
Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has again raised concerns about the actions and statements of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing some of them as matters that require clarification in the interest of national security.
In a lengthy statement titled “More Questions for Nasir El-Rufai,” Fani-Kayode said he was still awaiting answers to several issues he had previously raised regarding El-Rufai’s conduct while serving in public office.
He also expressed sympathy after reports that El-Rufai allegedly suffered a nosebleed while in detention, noting that he hoped the former governor would soon respond directly to the questions raised.
Fani-Kayode accused the former governor of carrying out several demolition exercises during his tenure as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and later as governor of Kaduna State, claiming that the actions affected residential buildings, communities and facilities, including some used by vulnerable groups.
He further alleged that some of the demolitions occurred close to the end of El-Rufai’s tenure in May 2023, including operations reportedly conducted by the Kaduna State Urban Planning and Development Authority in areas such as Gbagyi Villa and other communities.
According to him, critics had described the demolitions as vindictive, while affected residents alleged that some structures were removed despite legal disputes over the properties.
The former aviation minister also raised issues relating to policies implemented during El-Rufai’s administration in Kaduna State, including restrictions on certain religious activities and the suspension of state-sponsored pilgrimages at the time.
Fani-Kayode additionally referenced tensions between El-Rufai and some political figures, including Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, claiming the relationship deteriorated after the former governor left office.
Beyond the political issues, the statement also touched on security-related concerns, particularly allegations surrounding the bugging of phones and claims involving the possible importation of a toxic substance.
Fani-Kayode said such matters, if true, could pose serious national security implications and called for relevant security agencies to investigate thoroughly.
He expressed confidence that institutions such as the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Police Force, and other intelligence bodies would look into the allegations and determine the facts.
Fani-Kayode maintained that his remarks were intended to raise questions and encourage transparency, emphasizing the need for clarity on issues that could affect national stability and public confidence.