News From Edo
Dele Giwa: 38 Years Later, His Memory Endures
By Ben Ogbemudia
Dele Giwa, a revered journalist tragically murdered 38 years ago, was honored by his community, led by Hon. Solomon Obomighie, Executive Chairman of Etsako Central Local Government Area, Edo State, for his significant contributions to Nigerian journalism.
In a statement delivered by his Chief Press Secretary, Igbanor Anthony, Hon. Obomighie highlighted Giwa’s fearless dedication to investigative journalism, noting how he championed truth and accountability during tumultuous times in Nigeria. “Dele Giwa’s commitment to holding power accountable exemplified the highest standards of journalism,” he stated.
Giwa, born Ayodele Giwa on March 16, 1947, in Ile-Ife, was a prominent journalist, editor, and founder of Newswatch magazine. His bold reporting on key political issues during Nigeria’s military dictatorship of the 1980s set him apart as a trailblazer. Tragically, he was assassinated on October 19, 1986, by a parcel bomb at his Lagos home, a shocking event that raised serious concerns about press freedom in the country.
Obomighie remarked, “Giwa’s legacy lives on as a symbol of fearless journalism.” His influence continues to inspire journalists to advocate for justice and accountability.
Each year, on the anniversary of his death, the Etsako Central community, along with family, friends, and colleagues, gathers to honor Giwa’s life and work. This year, the council initiated the Dele Giwa Essay Competition for secondary schools, ensuring his legacy and commitment to truth remain a guiding light for future journalists.
Obomighie emphasized that Giwa’s memory serves as a reminder of the sacrifices journalists make in pursuit of truth. “His courage, integrity, and dedication to accountability continue to inspire a new generation of reporters,” he said.
In closing, Obomighie noted that remembering Dele Giwa is an opportunity to reflect on his enduring impact on Nigerian journalism. “Dele Giwa, your memory will continue to live with us in Etsako Central.”
News From Edo
Governor Okpebholo Orders Swift Road Repairs, Mobilizes Contractors Across Benin City
***Inspects Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi road
Barely Twenty-four hours after taking the oath of office, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Wednesday, swung to action, ordered contractors in the State to return to sites and immediately fix failed portions within the Benin metropolis.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Hon. Fred Itua, in a statement quoted the Governor to have given the directive during an inspection tour of Upper Mission Extension Road by Aduwawa junction and the Ramat Park Axis in Benin City.
Speaking at the failed portion of the road by Aduwawa junction, Governor Okpebholo said his administration in line with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to restoring the hope of Edo people.
Decrying the bad state of the roads, the Governor assured the people that work will commence immediately, as he is in a hurry to bring the dividends of democracy to the people.
He stressed that Edo people deserve good and motorable roads.
“During the campaigns, I promised that I was going to hit the ground running. Today, I ordered contractors back to sites. We have no time to waste.
“We promised our people that we would fix and construct the roads. There is only one dry season in a year. This is the time to immediately move to sites and fix the roads.
“So, Edo people should expect good things to happen. We will fix our roads and ensure that our people enjoy the dividends of democracy,” Governor noted.
Some of the areas work is expected to commence immediately, include the 7.5km Temboga Road, Lucky Way Junction by Aduwawa, and Ramat Park – Slope Axis.
Similarly, other parts of the State capital to experience immediate mobilisation of contractors are Eyaen Road and Obadan Junction along the Benin – Auchi Expressway.
Governor Okpebholo was sworn in as the 6th Executive Governor of Edo State on Tuesday, 12th October, 2024. During his inaugural speech, he promised to prioritise road construction, among others, in the course of his administration.
He had assured Edo people that his government would be a people-centred one
The high point of the day’s tour was the commissioning of the branch of Premium Trust Bank in Benin.
News From Edo
Governor Okpebholo Announces Key Appointments in Edo State Administration
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has appointed Barr. Musa U. Ikhilor as Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hon. Samson Osagie, PhD, as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, and Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole as Commissioner for Health. The nominations of Osagie and Oshiomhole are set for confirmation by the Edo State House of Assembly.
The nomination of Osagie and Oshiomhole will be confirmed by the Edo State House of Assembly when they are forwarded soon by Governor Okpebholo
Barr. Musa U. Ikhilor, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), born on August 6, 1980, in Benin City, brings a wealth of experience in legislative governance, with over 11 years in legislative drafting, parliamentary administration, and constitutional amendment processes.
An alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, he holds an LL.B and a Master’s degree in Telecommunications Law. Barr. Ikhilor has served as a consultant and adviser in various roles within the National Assembly, including Senior Special Assistant to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and later as Acting Chief of Staff. He is also a Notary Public and Managing Partner at Springfield Legal Consult.
Dr. Samson Osagie, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice:
A private legal practitioner and vice president of the African Bar Association (West African Region), Dr. Osagie has an extensive background in law and governance. With a career spanning over two decades, he has served as Minority Whip in the House of Representatives and a member of the Edo State House of Assembly. He holds degrees in Law, Public Administration, International Relations, and a Doctorate in Political Economy and Development Studies. Known for his legal consultancy work, Dr. Osagie is a prominent figure in the Nigerian legal community.
Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, Commissioner for Health:
Dr. Oshiomhole, a physician and public health expert, began his academic journey at St. Anne’s Primary School and Command Secondary School before earning his MBBS degree from Ahmadu Bello University. His expertise spans environmental health, toxicology, and disaster management, with postgraduate training from Tulane University and Harvard University. He also holds a specialization in Gastroenterology from Queen Mary University, London.
These appointments reflect Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to bringing experienced professionals to drive Edo State’s growth and address its health, legal, and governance needs.
News From Edo
Monday Okpebholo inaugurated as Edo State Governor, ending Obaseki’s eight-year tenure
His Excellency Monday Okpebholo has been sworn in as the new governor of Edo State, taking over from outgoing governor Godwin Obaseki after his eight years in office.
The inauguration was held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on Tuesday, where Okpebholo and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, took their oaths of office.
The ceremony, which saw dignitaries such as Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo and former governor Adams Oshiomhole in attendance, marked a return of Edo State’s governorship to the APC, following a closely fought election.
Okpebholo emerged victorious with 291,667 votes, defeating PDP’s Asue Ighodalo, who secured 247,274 votes, and Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata, who placed third.
Political analysts attributed Okpebholo’s win to the fractured relationship between Obaseki’s administration and former allies, including Obaseki’s former deputy Philip Shuaibu and influential figures like Oshiomhole.
Despite Obaseki’s backing, the PDP lost its hold on Edo State, with many viewing APC’s return as a reflection of Oshiomhole’s continued influence.
However, the PDP has challenged the election outcome, arguing that the results do not reflect the will of Edo citizens. The party has vowed to contest Okpebholo’s win in court.
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