***Governor Okpebholo’s Victory Strengthened as Opposition Parties Withdraw Cases

The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has struck out petitions filed by the Action Democratic Party (ADP), Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), and Allied People’s Movement (APM) against Governor Monday Okpebholo’s election victory.
The decision, delivered in Abuja on Friday, February 7, 2025, followed the voluntary withdrawal of the petitions by the opposition parties.
This latest development is seen as a major boost for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which now predicts that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) will soon abandon its own petition due to what the APC describes as “a glaring lack of evidence.”

An APC spokesperson expressed confidence in the tribunal’s direction, stating, “With the flimsy testimonies provided by PDP witnesses, it’s only a matter of time before they realize their case holds no water. We expect them to follow the path of ADP, ZLP, and APM.”

The withdrawal of the cases was announced by Comrade Wisdom Isaac, who represented the petitioners. Isaac noted that the decision was made in the best interest of Edo State’s development.
“We don’t want to stand in the way of progress. Governor Okpebholo deserves the chance to focus on governing without unnecessary distractions. Our time will come again in 2028,” he stated.

Echoing this sentiment, APM’s legal counsel, Barrister Jackson Ehiabhi, remarked, “Our clients have chosen to prioritize the well-being of Edo people over prolonged legal battles. Governance should take precedence over personal ambition.”

With four petitions now dismissed, only the PDP’s case remains before the tribunal.
However, the APC is optimistic that the PDP will withdraw soon, citing weak evidence and poor witness testimonies as the downfall of the opposition’s claims.

In the meantime, Governor Okpebholo and the APC are gearing up to present their defense against the PDP’s petition, reaffirming their commitment to proving the legitimacy of their electoral victory.

As the legal dust settles, Edo State looks forward to political stability and uninterrupted governance, with residents hopeful for a focus on development and progress in the years ahead.

The streets of Benin City came alive on Saturday as hundreds of Edo residents, health officials, and government representatives took part in the EDSG Walk Against Cancer, a vibrant campaign aimed at promoting cancer prevention and the life-saving importance of early detection.

Leading the charge was Mrs. Edesili Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, who passionately addressed participants, emphasizing that cancer is no longer a death sentence when caught early. “Gone are the days when a cancer diagnosis meant fear and hopelessness. Today, with early detection, cancer is both preventable and curable,” Mrs. Anani told the cheering crowd.

The walk, which kicked off from Airport Road at Akenzuwa Junction and concluded at the bustling Vegetable Market, was marked by colorful banners, lively music, and chants like “Cancer is not a death sentence—early detection saves lives!” Enthusiastic participants danced along the route, turning the awareness campaign into a celebration of health and community spirit.

Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, highlighted the critical role of awareness in combating cancer. “If you notice any unusual changes in your body, don’t wait—visit the nearest hospital for a check-up. Early intervention can be the difference between life and death,” he advised.

In a show of the state’s commitment to healthcare, Mrs. Anani announced that the Edo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, has sponsored free cervical cancer screenings and prioritized healthcare initiatives. “We are here to tell our people that the government cares. A healthy lifestyle, regular check-ups, and early intervention can save lives,” she said.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, Sally Suleman, who convened the walk, encouraged women to be vigilant about their health. “Knowing your body and acting quickly when something feels wrong is crucial. Early detection saves lives,” she reiterated.

The event also saw contributions from Mrs. Irenose Ihensekhien, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues, who stressed the importance of routine screenings and self-examinations, especially for breast and cervical cancer.

The Walk Against Cancer did not only bring the community together but also reinforced the message that proactive health checks and preventive measures are vital in the fight against cancer. As the chants faded and the streets cleared, the message remained: cancer awareness saves lives.

After four tense days in captivity, the Onogie of Udo-Eguare has been rescued by the Edo State Police Command in a coordinated operation that brought together state forces, local vigilantes, and hunters.

The monarch, whose abduction on February 3, 2025, sent shockwaves through the Udo-Eguare community and beyond, was freed in a meticulously planned operation led by Commissioner of Police Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Moses Joel Yamu, in a statement indicated that the successful rescue took place around 6:00 PM today, with authorities crediting the breakthrough to swift action and robust support from the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo.

“We vowed to leave no stone unturned, and today, we have fulfilled that promise,” CP Otimenyin declared. “This rescue operation was made possible through the combined efforts of law enforcement, the state government, and the unwavering vigilance of our local communities.”

The Commissioner lauded the logistical backing from the Edo State government and emphasized the critical role played by community members, including local hunters and vigilantes, who provided vital intelligence and ground support.

The Edo State Police Command reassured citizens of its relentless commitment to fighting crime and maintaining peace across the state. The Onogie’s safe return marks a significant victory in the ongoing battle against kidnapping and insecurity in the region.

While details about the monarch’s condition remain under wraps, sources suggested he is receiving medical evaluation.
The police have promised to release further information on the capture of the perpetrators as investigations continue.