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Showing posts from June, 2020

Edo COVID-19: frontline workers to get outstanding allowance, as govt concludes payroll vetting… ‘We demobilised COVID-19 screening taskforce after exceeding target

’   The Edo State Government has said the frontline workers temporarily engaged in screening and testing for coronavirus (COVID-19) in the state would be paid their outstanding allowance upon the conclusion of the vetting of their payroll.   Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, in a statement, said the taskforce was demobilised after the state exceeded its target to screen and test over 500,000 and 5,000 persons respectfully.   “The screening exercise was massive and crosscutting. The officials were inundated with lists of persons, who were said to have participated in the exercise. So, we are carefully vetting the lists before making the final payment. The outstanding allowances would be paid before the end of the week,” he said.   According to him, “The taskforce for the screening exercise was set up in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The government, upon the outbreak of the pandemic in the state, based its response on the data po

Obaseki sees prospects, opportunities in social media use by youths, businesses amid COVID-19 pandemic

  The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has charged students, youths and owners of small and medium scale businesses in the state to take advantage of technology and leverage on the many opportunities that abound in social media to develop their skills and grow their businesses amid the disruptions caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.   Governor Obaseki made this call on the occasion of the commemoration of the 2020 World Social Media Day, which is marked by Mashable, a global, multi-platform media and entertainment platform, and other tech giants.   According to the governor, “Social media has become a crucial part of how we interact with our friends, families, business communities and even run our government, especially in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Hence, there is need for careful planning to harness the opportunities presented by the social media for human capital development and job creation in order to mitigate the impact of the pandemic.”   He noted: “

Obaseki hails Osimhen over Best African Player win in French Ligue One

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  The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has hailed an Edo indigene and Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, on his emergence as Africa Best Player in French Ligue One, clinching the 2020 Marc-Vivien Foe Prize.   Obaseki said Osimhen has made the state and Nigeria proud with his envious feat, applauding him for being a good role model for millions of Edo youths.   According to the governor, “Hearty congratulations to Edo son and Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, on his Prix Marc-Vivien Foé win, awarded to the Best African Player in the French Ligue One. He is doing Edo proud at Lille Olympique Sporting Club (LOSC Lille), and we celebrate him for being an enviable ambassador of our dear state.”   He added that the state government is on course in encouraging more sporting talents to take to sports like Osimhen, with the setting up of the Edo State Sports Commission and the improved investment in sports development, resulting in the revamp of the Samuel Ogbemudia St

BREAKING: FG Lifts Ban On Interstate, Domestic Flights

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  The Federal Government has approved the safe resumption of domestic flights in the country. It has also lifted the ban placed on interstate travels with effect from July 1, provided such journeys are made outside curfew hours. The Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, disclosed this at the ongoing daily briefing of the task force in Abuja on Monday. Mustapha, who is also the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, disclosed that the latest developments were contained in the task force’s fifth interim report which was submitted to the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), earlier in the day. Mustapha said, “I am pleased to inform you that Mr President has carefully considered the 5th Interim Report of the PTF and has accordingly approved that, with the exception of some modifications to be expatiated upon later, the Phase Two of the eased lockdown be extended by another four weeks with effect from Tuesday, June 30, 2020 thr

COVID-19: Edo govt intensifies campaign on physical distancing, use of facemasks, others as death toll hits 35

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  The Edo State Government has reiterated the need for residents to adhere to preventive measures such as the use of face masks, hand washing and physical distancing to protect themselves and others from being infected with coronavirus (COVID-19), as the death toll from the deadly disease reaches 35, with nearly 1,000 persons infected in the state.   The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Patrick Okundia, who spoke to journalists in Benin-city, charged citizens to support the government's efforts at curbing the spread of coronavirus and protecting the people by complying with the guidelines to contain the pandemic.   According to him, "Complying with these directives will imply that we care about the wellbeing of others, especially the elderly, and are determined to protect them from getting infected by the deadly virus that has continued to claim thousands of lives globally."   The commissioner added: "The Edo State Government has taken serious steps to

Edo PDP, Diaspora group, others congratulate Obaseki over victory at primary poll ...Say Obaseki's goodwill, performance will earn him re-election

  The emergence of the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, as the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September 19, 2020, gubernatorial poll in the state has continued to generate myriads of commendations and congratulatory messages, with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), groups, and political organisations among others throwing their weight behind the reelection bid of the governor.   In a statement, the Edo State chapter of the PDP congratulated the governor, urging the Edo people to sustain their support for Governor Obaseki to enable him consolidate on his ongoing rebuilding and massive transformation of the state.   According to the Edo State PDP, "On behalf of members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Edo State chapter, we sincerely felicitate with Governor Godwin Obaseki on his victory at the party's primary election, emerging the PDP governorship candidate in the forthcoming September 19 poll.   "The governor's victory in the peac

Edo Assembly clears Efe Stewart as Commissioner

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The Edo State House of Assembly has cleared Mr. Efe Stewart as the state Commissioner for Communication and Orientation. The commissioner was recently appointed by the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, to replace the immediate-past commissioner, who had resigned his appointment. Stewart was cleared during a sitting led by the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Frank Abumere Okiye. Okiye said Governor Obaseki had sent the nomination of Stewart to the House of Assembly for confirmation as Commissioner for Communication and Orientation. Other candidates who were screened and confirmed by the Assembly are ex-official nominees into the Edo State Judicial Commission. They are Barr. Dele Edokpayi, from Ovia North East Local Government (LGA); Barr. Mustapha Abubakar from Etsako West LGA; Prof. Anthony Ogbeibu Ekata, Esan South East LGA, and Barr. Felicia Ogbeide from Uhumwonde LGA. PHOTO CAPTION: Mr. Efe Stewart

COVID-19: Forum of retired Heads of Service, Permanent Secretaries donate N500,000 to Edo COVID-19 fund ...urges residents to complement govt's efforts to check spread

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  The Edo Forum of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries, has donated N500,000 to boost the Edo State Government's response to check the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the state.   Chairman of the forum, Mallam Ikhelowa Atalasa, who made the presentation at Government House, Benin City, said the donation will complement the state government's effort in deploying resources to fight against the spread of the virus.   Ikhelowa said as a body, the retired heads of service and permanent secretaries tasked themselves to support the state government's unalloyed commitment to protecting Edo people.   On his part, Vice Chairman of the forum, Sir Xerxes Usiobaifo urged residents in the state to comply with all regulations from Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the state government, noting that COVID-19 is real.   He urged people to stop doubting the existence of coronavirus disease, as adhering to government's directive is in thei

Abuja international airport have bought robots to be used in places of humans

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N700m fraud: Group charges Edo youths to pay close attention to Ize-Iyamu's corruption trial

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  A group, Concerned Citizens of Edo State has charged youths in the state to meticulously follow the trial by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) flagbearer in the September 19 governorship election in the state, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.   In a statement signed by its Secretary, Mr. Orobosa Igbinoba, the group said it was pertinent to put young people and all right-thinking members of the public at alert on the case, due to the enormity of the allegations, as it would be unfair to make decisions without understanding the character and dealings of someone they are being presented with to run as governor.   The group said, "We call on Edo youths to be aware that Pastor Ize-Iyamu would be standing trial for a N700m money laundering case preferred against him and four others by the EFCC. The case comes up in court on July 2, 2020. After numerous tricks to detract the court, the judge has validated the charges preferre

COVID-19: Edo records 60 new cases as govt calls for caution ...warns against actions that endanger the elderly

With the continuous rise in confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Edo State, the government has reiterated the need for residents to be cautious and observe precautionary measures against the spread of the virus in order to remain safe and healthy.   Commissioner for Health, Dr. Patrick Okundia, who spoke to journalists in Benin City, expressed worry over the alarming rate of community spread of the virus, noting that there was need for residents to take responsibility and support government's efforts at containing the pandemic across all communities in the state.   This, he said, was necessary to protect all citizens, especially the elderly, who account for most of the fatalities recorded in the state.   The commissioner noted that the state recorded 60 new confirmed cases with 38 tested at the Irrua Specialist Hospital (ISTH) laboratory, while the remaining 22 cases were confirmed at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) laboratory.   He reassured that the Gover

Edo 2020: Obaseki hails Edo people, assures of victory in guber poll

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The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has expressed his appreciation to the people of the state as well as leaders and members of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for their relentless support in his emergence as the flagbearer of the party in the forthcoming gubernatorial election.   In a statement, the governor reassured that his administration will continue to pursue programmes and policies aimed at improving the lives of the majority of Edo people.   According to Obaseki , " This victory is our collective victory and I urge our people to remain vigilant as we kick-start our campaigns for the main election. I appeal to you to remain steadfast in your convictions to enable us win the war ahead just as we have won several battles together."   The statement further reads , " My dear people of Edo State, leaders and members of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), I thank you all for your support and for electing me as the flag

PDP Primary: Edo Assembly members, LGA chairmen congratulate Obaseki, reaffirm support for governor’s re-election bid

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Members of the Edo State House of Assembly and the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Edo State Chapter, have congratulated the Edo St ate Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on his emergence as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s flagbearer in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the state, scheduled to hold on September 19, 2020.   In separate congratulatory messages, they reaffirmed support for the re-election bid of Governor Obaseki on the back of his administration’s people-oriented programmes, policies and rapid rejuvenation of all sectors of the state.   The statement by the Assembly members was jointly signed by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Frank Okiye; his deputy, Hon. Yekini Idiaye; House Leader, Roland Asoro; Deputy Leader, Marcus Onobun and the Chief Whip, Henry Okhuarobo.   Others include Deputy Chief Whip, Hon. Emmanuel Agbaje; POC Member, Nosayaba Okunbor; Member Representing Igueben, Ephraim Aluebhosele; Member Representing Esan North E

COVID-19: Obaseki hails health workers as Edo discharges 14 more patients, clears 2232 suspected cases

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  The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has hailed health workers in the state for their sacrifice, resilience and commitment in the fight against the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, reassuring his administration’s support towards the protection and welfare of the state’s health workforce.   Governor Obaseki also  announced the recovery and discharge of 14 more COVID-19 patients who have now tested negative for the virus, following their treatment at the state’s isolation facilities.   In a statement, Obaseki said the recovered patients have now been cleared to reunite with the society, adding that the government will continue to intensify efforts to contain the pandemic across all communities in the state and protect Edo people.   “We have discharged 14 more COVID-19 patients from our isolation centres. The total number of recoveries stands at 267. However, one death has been recorded, bringing the number of fatalities to 33. We appreciate our frontline workers for

In Africa, a lot is happening

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Edo Water Storm, other Projects : Benin High Court orders state Govt to render account to Osagie Eholor.

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A Benin High Court has ordered Edo State Government to render account of stewardship on the cost of the Benin Water Storm Project to a Senior  Member , Amnesty International and  Founder One Foundation ,  Chief Patrick Eholor in compliance with the Freedom of Information Act. Presiding Judge ,Justice D I Okungbowa delivery Judgement on the case with suit number B/84/OS/019 said having chosen to adopt the unanimous judgement of an Akure Division of the Court of Appeal in the Case between Alo versus Speaker,   Ondo State House of Assembly, which expressly stated that the  Information Act applies to Edo State and the Claimant is  entitled to information applied under the Act 2011. Justice Okungbowa declared that Chief Osagie Eholor is entitled to the reliefs sought which are only declarative. He explained that the Court is not  a charitable institution and cannot make any order or grant a relief not sought. He awarded a cost of fifty thousand naira  to the claimants against th

World Drug Day: Obaseki canvasses stakeholder collaboration to check abuse, illicit trade in drugs

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The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has called for stiffer measures to check the incidence of drug abuse and illicit trafficking, noting that stakeholders need to band together to better engage youths on activities to mitigate the menace.   The governor said this on the commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day), marked every year on June 26, by the United Nations Office on Drug and Crimes (UNODC) and its sister organs.   According to the governor, "As we mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, we are once again reminded of the dangers of drug abuse and the dangers it portends for society and the mental health of citizens. Though a lot is being done to tackle the menace, there is no denying that critical stakeholders in the health, development and social sectors, at the national and international levels, have to work together to tackle this menace head on.   "The theme f

Edo 2020: Obaseki hails Edo people, assures of victory in guber poll

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  The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has expressed his appreciation to the people of the state as well as leaders and members of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for their relentless support in his emergence as the flagbearer of the party in the forthcoming gubernatorial election.   In a statement, the governor reassured that his administration will continue to pursue programmes and policies aimed at improving the lives of the majority of Edo people.   According to Obaseki , " This victory is our collective victory and I urge our people to remain vigilant as we kick-start our campaigns for the main election. I appeal to you to remain steadfast in your convictions to enable us win the war ahead just as we have won several battles together."   The statement further reads , " My dear people of Edo State, leaders and members of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), I thank you all for your support and for electing me as the fl

COVID-19: Edo govt reiterates need to protect the elderly as confirmed cases rise to 851

  Worried by the rising number of confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) and the community spread of the disease across Edo State, the government has restated the need for all residents to observe safety and preventive measures.   Commissioner for Health, Dr. Patrick Okundia, who spoke to journalists in Benin City, said physical distancing, compulsory use of face masks, hand hygiene and other epidemiological safety rules must be strictly followed in order to prevent further spread of COVID-19 and protect the people, especially the elderly, who account for most of the fatalities recorded in the state.   According to Okundia, "As a government, our highest priority is the health, safety and well-being of all Edo people, and that includes the elderly who are among the most vulnerable to COVID-19.   "Data have shown that adults of 60 years and above, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions, especially heart disease, lung disease, diabetes or cancer are more likely

AAU lauds Obaseki on institution's transformation

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The Governing Council of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, has applauded Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, for his administration's support and incentives which have transformed the landscape of the citadel of learning.   In a statement, the Chief Lawson Omokhodion-led AAU Governing Council, said the support provided by Governor Obaseki has helped in correcting the infrastructural deficit in the institution in the past two years.   The council noted, "The Governing Council, staff and students of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma express our profound gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki for the peace, serenity and progress he has brought to the university.   "In the past two (2) years, the progress has been exhilarating!"   The Council also expressed appreciation to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), NEEDS Assessment and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for the transformatio

Benin Central park takes shape, as Obaseki moves to reform Edo transport sector

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The Benin Central Park, an ultra-modern transport terminus in the heart of Benin City, the Edo State capital, aimed at transforming Edo State's transport sector for efficient city commute service, is nearing completion in the city centre.   The park, which is being constructed at the Obakhavbaye axis of Ring Road, is the brain-child of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration to bring a new lease of life to the city's transport scene, providing bespoke transport experience to travelers commuting to and from Benin City.   Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, in a statement, said the park is going to change the face of transport in the city, noting that work at the facility is progressing according to plan and would be delivered on time to solve the transportation challenges in the city centre.   According to him, "The Benin Central Park is Governor Obaseki's response to the transport challe

Again, Oshiomhole-backed APC faction suffers setback, as court set to seal secretariat in Edo

The Federal High Court in Benin is set to   shut down the secretariat of the Comr. Adams Oshiomhole-backed faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State.   The court ruled on a motion exparte on June 24, 2020, in Suit No. FHC/B/CS/S7/2020 filed by Anselm Ojezua challenging the setting up of a factional party secretariat of the APC in the state.   The presiding Judge, Hon. Justice A.A. Demi-Ajayi ordered the parties to maintain status quo, directing the defendant to show cause why its recently opened secretariat should not be sealed.   The court based its order on the fact that an earlier court ruling had affirmed Anselm Ojezua as the authentic State Chairman of the party in line with the provisions of the APC Constitution, which required that for a change of secretariat, the State chapter must make a request, which must be approved by the party's National Executive Committee (NEC). The APC NEC has, however, not met on any such matter.   In converse, Comrade Oshiomhole

Edo 2020: PDP primary election to be broadcast live tomorrow on Channels TV, AIT, others

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)'s Primary Election to decide the party's flagbearer in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Edo State will be broadcast live on Channels Television, Africa Independent Television (AIT) and the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), among others.   The primary election is scheduled to take place tomorrow, Thursday, June 25, 2020 at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.   The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, who is seeking reelection for a second term in office, is a leading contender for the party's ticket.   The PDP had adopted the indirect mode of primary election, reassuring strict compliance to the Edo State Government's Gazette on political gatherings, as part of efforts to curtail the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Flooding: Edo Govt assures on timely completion of water detention pond project

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The Edo State Government has assured residents of Benin City on timely completion of water detention pond projects to check flooding in the state. Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, Mr. Lucky Wasa, gave the assurance after inspecting the water detention pond in Erediauwa axis of Benin City.   He said the state government appreciates the patience of the residents in the area and understands the difficulties they go through as a result of the ongoing stormwater project, noting, "We urge you all to be patient with us. The state government is already doing something about the issue. Our consultants are already working to correct the flooding problem in the area.   Noting that work has reached advanced stage on some of the detention ponds on the axis, he said the government is committed to ensuring that the erosion control scheme is all-encompassing.   On the new projects in the area, he said, "The consultants have commenced engineering de

COVID-19: Edo govt disburses loans to boost food security

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  The Edo State Government has commenced disbursement of loans to farmers as part of plans to boost food security in the post coronavirus (COVID-19) economy.   Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Forestry and Food Security Programme, Prince Joe Okojie, disclosed this during sensitisation programmes for farmers organised in different locations in the state, including Agbede, Ubiaja and Abudu.   He said the sensitisation programme was held to educate farmers on the economics of food production, which will assist them maximize profit and improve production as the state government galvanises farmers to attain its food security targets.   "We are here to sensitise the farmers on rice, cassava and maize production as they are about to start this year's farming season," he said.   He added that the loans are being disbursed to assist the farmers in boosting the state's food production drive, adding, "Since the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic, Gover

N700m fraud: Edo APC guber candidate, Ize-Iyamu, set to appear in Court July 2

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The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Edo State, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, and four others will on Thursday, July 02, 2020, appear before Justice M. G. Umar of the Federal High Court over charges bordering on a N700 million money laundry case filed against them by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).   The Court had in its last sitting in Benin City, on Thursday, June 18, 2020 validated the corruption charges against the defendants, adjourning the case to July 02, 2020 for further hearing.   A statement on the EFCC official website reads: "The presiding Judge, Justice M. G. Umar ruled that the charges filed by the Commission against the Defendants were not defective. Justice Umar further adjourned the case to July 2.   The four other defendants in the suit include former Edo Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chairman, Chief Dan Orbih; former Deputy Governor, Mr. Lucky Imasuen, and two

EDO 2020: PDP aspirant, Ikhine, steps down for Obaseki

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An aspirant in the forthcoming Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship Primary election, Engr. Gideon Ikhine has stepped down, declaring support for the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.   Ikhine, who declared his support for the governor at his campaign office in Benin City, noted that his decision was to allow the governor consolidate on his developmental strides in Edo State.   According to him, "Governor Godwin Obaseki is a prayer-answered for the PDP.  We might have a common vision but the means of achieving them may be at variance but God has brought them to reality."   Urging his supporters to support the re-election of the incumbent governor, Ikhine said, "We want to ask for your support and to ensure that everyone that has worked with us across the state redoubles their efforts in ensuring that the margin of victory between the PDP and the opposition is wider."   On his part, Governor Obaseki reassured that his administration will cont

Obaseki'll sustain devt strides in Edo for another 4 years, says Okowa

The Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has said he is confident that his Edo State counterpart, Mr. Godwin Obaseki will sustain the developmental strides being recorded by his administration for another four years when he is re-elected in office.   Okowa said this during a solidarity visit to Governor Obaseki, at the Government House in Benin City, noting that the governor's defection to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is a blessing to the PDP in Edo State.   He expressed support for Governor Obaseki's aspiration to become the flagbearer of the PDP in the 2020 gubernatorial election.   Okowa said, "I am here to rejoice with my brother who has come to join the PDP and with our party leaders for allowing the governor to be part of the PDP family."   He added that he is optimistic that the developmental strides Governor Obaseki is known for while in the All Progressives Congress (APC) would be sustained now that he is with the PDP, noting, "We have come to

Oba Market inferno: Obaseki raises investigation c'ttee to unravel cause of incident

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The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has set-up an investigation committee to unravel the cause of the fire which razed parts of Oba Market in Kings Square, Benin City, the Edo State capital.   The governor disclosed this during a visit to the market for an on-the-spot assessment of the incident reported to have occurred in the early hours of Monday, June 22, 2020.   Obaseki, who sympathised with the traders that lost their goods to the fire, said the investigation committee has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the unfortunate incident.   The governor said efforts are ongoing to ascertain the victims who lost their goods to the inferno for adequate compensation.   According to the governor, "The investigation committee will consist of officials of Oredo Local Government Council, the Nigeria Police Force, Federal Fire Service, State Fire Service, Directorate of State Services (DSS), and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duty, Hon. Yakubu Go

Edo First Lady advocates stiffer laws against rape, child abuse, others

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The Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki has advocated for more potent laws that would protect the girl-child in the face of rising incidence of rape and sexual abuse in the country, reassuring that she is working with wives of governors to ensure the implementation of tougher laws to punish perpetrators of all forms of gender-based violence.   The First Lady gave the assurance while addressing members of Edo Women Development Initiative (EWDI) and Women's Aid Collective (WACOL), during a peaceful protest at the Government House in Benin City.   Mrs. Obaseki assured the Non-Governmental Organisations that governors' wives are working together with Nigeria's First Lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, to address all forms of gender-based violence.   She noted, "We have also realised that rapists kill their victims; it is as a result of this that we, as governors' wives, set up the Gender Violence Committee. We are working round the clock to ensure violence agains

Edo APC primary will violate no health guideline ~~~John MAYAKI.

  Fears of violating the new covid-19 related law by Mr. Godwin Obaseki, the Governor of Edo State, during the Direct Primary of the All Progressives Congress set to hold tomorrow, Monday, June 22nd, has been brought to our attention.   Without a hint of irony, especially a day after he assembled hundreds of youths at the PDP Secretariat without social distancing or any form of protection at his defection, has diminished the effectiveness of Edo State COVID-19 Quarantine Regulations and the state Government’s Gazette on political gatherings in a pandemic, the party would not violate the guidelines.   We wish to clarify to the public that, the All Progressives Congress and its officials in Edo State are law-abiding.   The adoption of the Direct mode of primary by the party was done to allow for an effective decentralization of the process, reduce inter-community and regional movements of people, and sufficient room for proper social distancing and process management in compliance with a