A socio-economic advocacy group, the Onitsha Zone Shareholders’ Association, has raised alarm over alleged plans by Afrinvest, a company linked to former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, to orchestrate a ₦100 billion bond deal involving Okomu Oil Palm and Presco PLC. The group claims the bonds are part of a scheme to convert them into personal shares.

Led by its chairman, Bishop Goodluck Akpore, the association made these allegations during a protest visit to Governor Monday Okpebholo at the Edo State Government House in Benin City.

During the visit, Bishop Akpore expressed concerns over the economic implications of the alleged scheme on Edo State and its communities. He presented a detailed report accusing Obaseki of using Afrinvest to manipulate bond transactions involving the companies.

The report also criticized Presco PLC for failing to compensate host communities for the 36,388 hectares of land acquired for their operations and alleged collusion between the companies and Obaseki’s administration to evade taxes.

“A trailer load of palm oil leaving Edo State for Lagos is valued at around ₦80 million,” Akpore said. “Yet, these companies neither remit taxes nor compensate the communities whose lands they freely use.”

The group further highlighted the companies’ lack of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects, despite significant profits, and accused them of depriving Edo State of economic benefits.

In response, Governor Okpebholo assured the group of his administration’s commitment to protecting the interests of Edo citizens. He pledged to investigate the allegations thoroughly, emphasizing that any wrongdoing would be addressed.

“We will seek a peaceful resolution and invite Presco and Okomu Oil Palm to a meeting to discuss these issues,” Governor Okpebholo said. “While we appreciate their contributions to the State’s economy, they must fulfill their responsibilities to the host communities and ensure fair contributions.”

The Governor also acknowledged recent protests over the companies’ operations and reiterated the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts.

The Onitsha Zone Shareholders’ Association, known for monitoring corporate activities in Edo, Delta, and other states, emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the dealings of Okomu Oil Palm and Presco PLC.

After a four-year battle with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the All Progressives Congress (APC), Edo State chapter, has reclaimed its secretariat at 59, Airport Road, Benin City,.
The property had been under PDP control since 2021, following a controversial takeover allegedly orchestrated by the then-Governor Godwin Obaseki.
Addressing the media shortly after the takeover, APC State Chairman, Emperor Jarrett Tenebe, described the development as a fulfillment of his pledge to restore the party’s rightful properties and position in the state.
“This secretariat has always been the APC’s office. We renewed the rent for seven years before it was unlawfully taken from us by the PDP, with the support of the previous administration,” Tenebe said. “Today, justice has been served, and we are taking back what rightfully belongs to the APC.”
Recounting the events leading up to the takeover, Tenebe alleged that Governor Obaseki, after defecting to the PDP, used state machinery to evict APC members from the secretariat, confiscating party properties and vehicles.
“Despite a directive from the Inspector General of Police at the time for us to reclaim the property, the then-Commissioner of Police, acting on orders from Governor Obaseki, blocked our efforts,” he added.
Tenebe, who assumed leadership of the APC in Edo State, vowed to redress these wrongs. “I promised to reclaim this state for the APC and recover all properties taken from us. With the election of Senator Monday Okpebholo as governor, we fulfilled the first promise. Today, we fulfill the second by reclaiming our secretariat.”
The takeover was marked by the allocation of offices and plans to remodel the building in APC colors.
Tenebe assured party members that the APC would resist any attempt to reclaim the property by vested interests.
“We will ensure this secretariat is remodeled and functions fully as the APC’s operational headquarters. No one will displace us again,” he asserted.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Ben Abang, visited the premises alongside senior officers to observe the situation and interact with APC executives.
The presence of law enforcement underscored the sensitivity of the reclaiming process.
Meanwhile, Edo PDP Chairman, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, who was at the premises during the takeover, was escorted out by the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku.
With the secretariat reclaimed, the APC in Edo State appears poised for a renewed chapter of leadership and organization.
The development further cements the party’s foothold following its recent electoral victory in the state.
“This is a victory for justice and the APC,” Tenebe concluded. “Today, we reaffirm our commitment to the people of Edo State and our determination to lead with integrity and purpose.”

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called on Nigerians to honor the sacrifices of fallen heroes by fostering national unity and peace, emphasizing that the current stability of the nation rests on the selfless acts of these patriots.

Speaking at the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo underscored the importance of learning from the country’s history to ensure a more united future.

“Today serves as a poignant reminder of the immense price paid by our gallant soldiers. They defended the unity of Nigeria at the cost of their lives. Let us ensure that their sacrifices were not in vain by strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and avoiding the mistakes of the past,” the governor said.

A statement by his chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua quoted governor Okpebholo to have also urged citizens to play active roles in promoting peace and national development.
He further stated that true homage to the nation’s fallen heroes goes beyond ceremonies.
“We must commit to building a nation where their dreams of peace and prosperity are realized. Every Nigerian has a part to play in fostering a more harmonious and thriving country,” he stated.
The governor reassured the widows and families of fallen soldiers of his administration’s commitment to providing sustained support.
According to him, plans are underway to introduce welfare packages tailored to addressing their unique needs.

“The government of Edo State remains resolute in ensuring that the families of these heroes are not forgotten. We will continue to provide for their welfare as a way of demonstrating our gratitude,” Governor Okpebholo affirmed.
“We owe it to the families of our fallen heroes to ensure that their sacrifices are recognized not just today, but every day. We are putting systems in place to provide them with the support they need and deserve,” he assured.
The high point of the event was the laying of a wreath by Governor Okpebholo, in memory of the country’s fallen soldiers.
The event brought together prominent leaders and stakeholders, including, Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, Military personnel and representatives of the Oba of Benin

This solemn occasion served as a reminder of the nation’s responsibility to its fallen heroes and the enduring need for unity and peace in Nigeria.