News From Edo
Edo Deputy Governor Warns Against “Greek Gifts” Amid Controversial Appointments
By Ben Ogbemudia, Abuja
As the Edo State government approaches the end of its term under Governor Godwin Obaseki, Deputy Governor Comrade Philip Shaibu has issued a stark warning regarding the recent inauguration of the Edo State Civil Service Commission.
In a statement he signed and shared with journalists, Shaibu distanced himself from the purported inauguration, expressing dismay that Governor Obaseki is moving forward with appointing new commission members despite the previous commission’s underutilization. He pointed out that many functions traditionally handled by the commission, such as civil service appointments, have been delegated to private consultants during Obaseki’s tenure.
Shaibu raised concerns about the qualifications of the newly screened chairman, asserting that the individual does not meet the required criteria for the position. This, he argued, calls into question the integrity of the entire appointment process.
The deputy governor also criticized the hurried nature of recent appointments in the civil service, suggesting that some may have been backdated following the recent elections. He cautioned potential appointees to be wary of these appointments, which he labeled “Greek gifts” that could lead to legal troubles, referencing the recent case involving the Okuogbellagbe of Okpella.
Shaibu urged the people of Edo State to recognize that these actions undermine transparency and good governance. He reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the law and protecting the interests of the state until his last day in office.
As the political landscape shifts in Edo, Shaibu’s statements reflect growing tensions and highlight the potential ramifications of Obaseki’s last-minute decisions regarding civil service appointments.
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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