Tag: Edo State

  • Rema Donates ₦105 Million to Christ Embassy Church in Benin

    Rema Donates ₦105 Million to Christ Embassy Church in Benin

    By  Milcah   Tanimu

    Afrobeats star Divine Ikubor, widely known as Rema, has made a substantial donation of ₦105 million to Christ Embassy church in Benin, Edo State. The generous contribution was made during a service on September 1, 2024, and aims to support various initiatives within the church.

    Rema’s donation includes ₦40 million for church infrastructure, ₦25 million for the teen’s church infrastructure, ₦20 million for Rhapsody of Realities, and ₦20 million for widows in the church. The singer expressed his gratitude to the church for its support during a challenging period in his life, particularly after the death of his father.

    In a heartfelt message, Rema recalled how the church had helped his family when they were struggling. “When I was eight years old, after my father’s passing, we felt very lost. Pastor Joy and Pastor Thomas from this church opened a shop for my mother, which helped us greatly,” he shared.

    The artist’s gesture was captured in a video that has quickly gone viral. Rema’s donation comes as part of his homecoming tour in Benin, where he is set to perform at a major concert. Last Tuesday, he attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the 6,000-capacity Edo Arena, named in his honor by Governor Godwin Obaseki, and also visited Oba Ewuare II at his palace.

  • Nigeria Gears Up for 2025 U-19 Cricket World Cup Qualifiers

    Nigeria Gears Up for 2025 U-19 Cricket World Cup Qualifiers

    By   Milcah   Tanimu

    Nigeria’s women U-19 cricket team, the Junior Female Yellow Greens, are intensifying their preparations for the 2025 U-19 T20 World Cup Qualifiers following recent changes in the tournament structure. The qualifiers, now set to take place in Kigali, Rwanda, have been rescheduled, granting the team additional time to prepare.

    Originally, the tournament was structured into two groups of seven teams each. However, the late inclusion of Zimbabwe necessitated the formation of a new division, leading to a reorganization of the tournament. The Junior Female Yellow Greens have been placed in Division 1 of the Africa Qualifiers, which commenced on August 21, 2024. This division includes strong teams such as Nigeria, Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.

    Division 2, featuring Botswana, Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, and Sierra Leone, is being played in a round-robin format. The top two teams from Division 2 will advance to join the teams in Division 1 for the final qualifiers.

    The Division 1 qualifiers are scheduled to run from September 23 to 29, 2024, in Kigali. The winner of this division will secure Africa’s second spot in the U-19 T20 World Cup, set to be held from January 8 to February 2, 2025, in Malaysia. The World Cup will also feature South Africa, New Zealand, and Samoa in Group C.

    The Junior Female Yellow Greens have been training diligently at the Nigeria Cricket Federation’s High Performance Centre in Benin City, Edo State. They are expected to move to Lagos for final preparations before heading to Rwanda for the qualifiers.

  • Why voters should support climate-friendly candidate

    Why voters should support climate-friendly candidate

    As preparations for this year’s governorship election in Edo State gather momentum, the need to remind the electorate to support and vote massively for a climate-friendly candidate has become increasingly imperative. Governorship elections are held every four years and their outcomes have demonstrably proven to have a profound impact on the state’s environmental and climate policies.

    Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission, the electoral body which oversees elections in Nigeria, has fixed Saturday, September 21 as the date for the governorship election in the state. The commission recently published the final list of candidates for the election, following the conclusion of party primaries and the end of the period for withdrawal and substitution of candidates as provided in the timetable and schedule of activities for the election.

    The electioneering in public by political parties, according to the commission, commenced on Wednesday, April 24, and would end at midnight on Thursday, September 19, that is, 24 hours before the date fixed for the election as provided by law. Moreover, INEC has harped on the need for the political parties to adhere strictly to the timeline for the upload of the list of polling and collation agents to the dedicated portal for the polls.

    From all indications, Edo State, which is geographically situated along Nigeria’s low belt region, has had its fair share of environmental and ecological challenges over the years. Notably, these challenges are rife across some communities within the three senatorial districts in the state, including growing evidence of climate change threats.

    Consequently, Edo State has continued to experience unpredictable weather conditions such as extreme temperature that results in excessive heat, decline in annual rainfall, air pollution, energy poverty, frequent flooding, erosion etc. For example, the premises and vicinity of educational institutions such as Queen Ede and Edo College, Iguosa, Ekenhuan Road and Gapiona in Edo South senatorial district, Ambrose Ali University, Emu, Ugboha and Ibore in Edo Central and Igbe Road and Oshiobugie in Edo North Senatorial districts, are worst hit.

    It may be recalled that less than four months to the forthcoming governorship election in the state, the premises of the INEC in Benin City, the state capital, were ravaged by flood. The commission disclosed that the flood damaged a section of the building and destroyed voter registration machines and other items. INEC has however, reassured the government and people of Edo State that the incident will not jeopardise its pre-election activities, adding that the damaged enrolment machines for the continuous voter registration in the state, have been promptly configured, in addition to the supplementary machines deployed from the neighbouring states to make up for the shortfall.

    At the maiden edition of the Edo Climate Summit which was held recently in Benin City, under the auspices of Connected Advocacy for Empowerment and Youth Development Initiative, the stakeholders observed that climate-induced weather conditions have further widened the poverty gap in the state and now undermined its contribution to both local and state development, including the well-being of the people.

    Similarly, Obaseki’s predecessor, Adams Oshiomhole, and other past governors in the state had set up several initiatives aimed at tackling the age-long gully erosion hazards and a host of other environmental problems confronting the state. Sadly, these efforts seem grossly insignificant, especially when juxtaposed with the devastating ecological quandaries which have haplessly brought the state to its knees.

    Given the importance of climate change, it ought to be a top priority subject that should be adequately addressed in the ongoing electioneering and rallies across the state. It behoves all the candidates representing the different political parties that are in the race to unveil their climate policies as stipulated in their respective party manifestos. The onus lies on the candidate to reassure the voters of their party’s commitment to climate change and environmental sustainability issues in Edo State. Moreover, there should not be any form of political silence on climate during campaigns. The candidates should tell the electorate how they intend to tackle the multidimensional ecological crisis in the state.

    In light of this, the three front-running gladiators in the Edo State governorship race- Dennis Idahosa, the standard-bearer of the All Progressives Congress; Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party, and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party- as well as other contenders, should step up and bring their different perspectives and action plans for climate to the campaign trail, forums and debates as the election date draws closer. This will go a long way in raising more awareness, enriching the campaign and giving more insights to the electorate on the subject matter. They have to bring the voters to speed in this regard.

    On their part, the electorate should ensure that they demand answers for the mind-boggling climate-related questions from candidates and representatives of the political parties that are in the race to lead the state. They must speak out and let the candidates know how dear environmental and climate issues are to their hearts.

    From the foregoing, it is crystal clear that the Edo electorate cannot afford to vote for a governorship aspirant whose beliefs, thinking and inclination towards climate are not explicitly articulated and well defined. They cannot afford to vote for a candidate who will treat the protracted ecological problems and climate-driven challenges with kid gloves. In other words, Edo State is in dire need of a governor that is not only climate-friendly but a governor that is well equipped with what it truly takes to fix the problems head-on.

    Since climate change poses an existential threat to the state, it is imperative that the voters take climate as their number one priority and also be mindful that their choice of candidate in the upcoming election, will shape the trajectory of the state’s climate policies. They must therefore vote wisely in order to support and foster a sustainable future for their beloved state.

  • Edo State Gubernatorial Aspirant Outlines Top Priorities for Development

    Edo State Gubernatorial Aspirant Outlines Top Priorities for Development

    Mr. John Yakubu, a prominent aspirant in the upcoming 2024 Edo State governorship race, has revealed his key priorities that will shape his administration if elected. During an interaction with journalists in Abuja, he highlighted security, stable power supply, and agriculture as the critical sectors that require immediate attention for the state’s progress.

    Ensuring the security of lives and property is at the forefront of Mr. Yakubu’s agenda. He expressed deep concern over the frequent attacks on farmers by militia herdsmen and pledged to take decisive action to protect farmers from such threats. His administration will work tirelessly to address insecurity and reclaim Edo forests from herders, thus enabling farmers to safely access their lands once again.

    Recognizing the pivotal role of agriculture in societal development, Mr. Yakubu aims to revolutionize the sector. He plans to provide essential support and incentives to farmers, encouraging their return to the farms. By implementing these measures alongside improved security, he envisions a significant boost in agricultural productivity and economic growth.

    Stable power supply is another critical focus for Mr. Yakubu. Drawing from his experience as a key player in the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) distribution sub-sector, he has studied successful power supply models, including that of a private university with uninterrupted electricity supply. He intends to adapt and develop such models to provide Edo State with a constant and reliable source of electricity.

    Mr. John Yakubu’s vision centers on driving Edo State towards progress, prosperity, and sustainability. If elected, he is determined to tackle pressing challenges head-on and implement policies that will transform the state’s economy and improve the well-being of its people.

  • Six Victims Of Edo Train Attack Regains Freedom

    Six Victims Of Edo Train Attack Regains Freedom

    Six victims of Saturday’s train attack in the Igueben area of Edo State have been rescued.

    They were part of the thirty-one persons who were abducted when gunmen attacked a train station in Igueben, Igueben Local Government Area of the state. The victims were said to be waiting to board a train heading to Warri in Delta State.

    But the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, in an update about the incident on Monday, said some of the victims have been rescued. A breakdown of the figure showed that the freed persons included a nursing mother, her baby, and a six-year-old child.

    “Following the directive from Governor Godwin Obaseki that the kidnappers that attacked the train in Igueben on Saturday be smoked out of their hiding and the persons abducted be rescued, we are happy to announce that six (6) persons have been rescued,” the Commissioner added in the statement.

    “The six persons are a 65-year-old man, a nursing mother with her baby, a 6-year-old girl, and two siblings; aged two and five years old.

    “We commend the efforts of the rescue team in the bushes and their support staff that have been working tirelessly since the incident occurred to ensure the kidnapped passengers are rescued and reunited with their families.”

    He expressed optimism that other victims will be rescued soon as security agents have doubled down on smoking out the abductors.

    “As events unfold in the bushes, be assured that we will keep you posted and we crave the support of all stakeholders, particularly the media to stay with the facts and avoid sensational reports that could further inflict emotional pain on the families and friends of the victims who are already in distress,” he assured.”Operation Bush Combing continues.”

    READ THE FULL STATEMENT BELOW:

    Press Release
    January 9, 2023
    Following the directive from Governor Godwin Obaseki that the kidnappers that attacked the train in Igueben on Saturday be smoked out of their hiding and the persons abducted be rescued, we are happy to announce that six (6) persons have been rescued.
    The six persons are: a 65-year-old man, a nursing mother with her baby, a 6-year-old girl and two siblings; aged two and five years old.
    We commend the efforts of the rescue team in the bushes and their support staff that have been working tirelessly since the incident occurred to ensure the kidnapped passengers are rescued and reunited with their families.
    We are confident that the other victims will be rescued soon as the highly motivated security personnel are in high spirits and have doubled down on the hot chase of the kidnappers.
    As events unfold in the bushes, be assured that we will keep you posted and we crave the support of all stakeholders, particularly the media to stay with the facts and avoid sensational reports that could further inflict emotional pain on the families and friends of the victims who are already in distress.
    Operation Bush Combing continues.
    Signed:
    Chris Osa Nehikhare,
    Hon. Commissioner for Communication and Orientation

  • 2023: Obidients Shutdown Edo State For Peter Obi’s Campaign

    2023: Obidients Shutdown Edo State For Peter Obi’s Campaign

    A large number of people showed up on Friday as presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, visited Edo state.

    Mr Obi, who had been in Abia State on Thursday, said he was grateful for the reception.

    “What an awesome and OBIdient crowd in Benin,” he said in a tweet. “I am deeply humbled by Edo people’s show of love and support.”

    In Benin-City, Mr Obi visited the Oba of Benin.

    He was also pictured with popular cleric, Apostle Johnson Suleman.

    See Photos;

    A large number of people spilled into the streets on Friday as presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, visited Edo state.  Mr Obi, who had been in Abia State on Thursday, said he was grateful for the reception.  "What an awesome and OBIdient crowd in Benin," he said in a tweet. "I am deeply humbled by Edo people's show of love and support."  In Benin-City, Mr Obi visited the Oba of Benin.   He was also pictured with popular cleric, Apostle Johnson Suleman.
    A large number of people spilled into the streets on Friday as presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, visited Edo state.  Mr Obi, who had been in Abia State on Thursday, said he was grateful for the reception.  "What an awesome and OBIdient crowd in Benin," he said in a tweet. "I am deeply humbled by Edo people's show of love and support."  In Benin-City, Mr Obi visited the Oba of Benin.   He was also pictured with popular cleric, Apostle Johnson Suleman.
    A large crowd turned out for Peter Obi in Benin-City on November 11, 2022.
  • Gunmen Attack Apostle Suleman’s Convoy in Edo, Kill Policemen, Civilians

    Gunmen Attack Apostle Suleman’s Convoy in Edo, Kill Policemen, Civilians

    Gunmen on Friday attacked a convoy ferrying popular cleric Apostle Johnson Suleiman in Edo state.

    The police confirmed the incident to Channels Television.

    According to the Edo State Police Command spokesperson, Chidi Nwabuzor, Suleman is safe and sound.

    However three policemen and two civilian drivers attached to the Apostle were killed in the attack.

    One domestic worker was also killed while search is ongoing for a second domestic worker.

    The police command disclosed that the DPO of Auchi Division and his team mobilised to the scene of the incident on receipt of the information and killed one of the gunmen.

    An aggressive manhunt for the fleeing criminals is said to be ongoing.

    According to some sources, Suleman was returning from a foreign trip when the gunmen attacked his convoy along the Benin-Auchi road.

  • Abducted Catholic Priest Shot Dead in Edo State

    Abducted Catholic Priest Shot Dead in Edo State

    Rev. Fr. Christopher Odia, who was kidnapped at his residence in Ikabigbo community, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, on Sunday morning, has been killed.

    Confirming his death, Fr. Peter Egielewa, Director of Social Communications Catholic Diocese of Auchi, said Odia was 41 years old.

    ]”With heavy hearts but with total submission to the will of God, we announce the death of our priest Rev. Fr. Christopher Odia, who was killed by his abductors after being kidnapped this morning 26th June 2022 at about 6.30am in his rectory while coming out to go for Sunday Mass at St. Michael Catholic Church Ikabigbo, Uzairue, Edo State”

    Until his death, Fr Odia was the Administrator of St Michael Catholic Church, Ikabigbo and also the Principal of St. Philip Catholic Secondary School Jattu.

  • Police Rescue 10 Kidnap Victims in Edo

    Police Rescue 10 Kidnap Victims in Edo

    Police have rescued 10 kidnap victims who were intercepted by hoodlums in Edo State recently. The victims were said to have been travelling from one of the eastern states to Abuja when a group of hoodlums suspected to be kidnappers stopped them and took them to a bush in the Okpella area of Edo State.

    The Police Public Relations Officer, Edo State, SP Kontongs Bello, said in a statement that operatives of the command with the help of local vigilantes swung into action to rescue the victims in the bush.

    He noted that the kidnappers noticing the team of operatives in their den hurriedly abandoned the victims and escaped into the thick forest.

    He said: “Nine of the kidnapped victims were all rescued unhurt. They were advised to continue their journey after profiling them”.

    Bello added that the Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Philip Aliyu Ogbadu, has enjoined the general public to continue to support the police by providing credible information that will help in the fight against crime and criminal elements in the state.

    Anambra Gets New Police Commissioner, Fourth in Eight Months

    Anambra State has gotten a new Commissioner of Police, Echeng Eworo Echeng, making has been posted to Anambra State as the new Commissioner of Police (CP), making him the fourth CP in the state within a period of eight months.

    He is taking over from Tony Olofu who has been transferred to the Force Headquarters in Abuja.

    Before Olofu’s posting on September 10, Chris Owolabi took charge of the State Police Command from April 30.

    However, Monday Bala Kuryas who was deployed on February 19 oversaw the state’s internal security for barely six weeks.

    Force Public Relations Officer, CP Frank Mba, who announced the deployment of the new police chief in the state said the erstwhile police commissioner has been redeployed to the Force Headquarters, Abuja.

    He noted that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) has also ordered the deployment of a detachment of the police “Special Forces to Anambra State to bolster and complement the ongoing peace-building efforts of the Nigeria Police Operation Restore Peace in Anambra State.”

    According to CP Mba, IGP is “particularly concerned with the renewed incidents of attacks on innocent individuals and symbol of state authority in the state.”

    He said the new CP has been charged to “mobilise both kinetic and non-kinetic law enforcement and crime-fighting approaches to reverse the negative trend, reclaim public spaces from hoodlums and restore public peace in the state.”

    Until his recent posting, CP Echeng was the Commissioner of Police in Bayelsa State.

    He holds a first degree in History from the University of Maiduguri and has received extensive training on global peace support operations at Mission Training Cell, Kielce, Poland, amongst other tactical and leadership courses.

    Echeng has also served as a former Police Component Commander, Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe, Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Zonal CID, Zone-13, Ukpo, Anambra State, amongst other key positions.

  • Edo Deputy Gov. Philip Shaibu denies rift with Obaseki, Reaffirms Loyalty

    Edo Deputy Gov. Philip Shaibu denies rift with Obaseki, Reaffirms Loyalty

    Deputy Governor of Edo state, Philip Shaibu has denied having any rift with his principal, Governor Godwin Obaseki.

    Commenting on rumor of concluding arrangements to dump the PDP for an undisclosed party while featuring as a guest on a Channels Television programme, Shaibu said he still remains loyal to Obaseki.

    He said;

    “I am happy with my governor; I don’t have any problem with my governor.

    “So, the issue of not being happy with my governor is not there. I remain absolutely loyal to my governor.”

    The Deputy Governor who did not categorically state whether he would leave the PDP or not, admitted there were some issues within the ruling party in the state.

    Shaibu said;

    “There are issues we need to resolve over PDP.”