Case Against Chief Atselege, 11 Others: Court Decision In Consonant With The Criminal Justice Administration Law - Edaghese

....But Defense Counsel Abridges The Right Of His Client

By The9jaTrend

Head of the Legal Team to Late Sunny Etchie's family Barr. Mathew Edaghese has said that the decision by the Presiding Judge of High Court of Justice, Criminal Court 4, Benin City, Edo State, His Lordship, Justice Mary Ituseli to have granted the Application filed by the Learned SAN, Ighedosa Aifuwa Imadegbelo, Counsel to the Defendants was with consonance of the provision of the the Criminal Justice Administration Law, but the Defense Counsel Abridges the right of his Client.

Barr. Edaghese made the observations while responding to questions from newsmen after the presiding judge has granted the Application filed by the Learned SAN, Imadegbelo, Counsel to the Defendants.

Edaghese Esq. said, "The Court took the Application by the Learned Counsel, Immadugbelo SAN seeking leave of the court to appeal against the decision of the Court to reserve Ruling till the main case is concluded.  So, the Learned SAN decided to exercise his right of Appeal which the court has granted.

"But, we have gone through the contents of the Application seeking the leave of court - the motion in support of the Application and we discovered that the ground supporting that Application is neither here nor their; there it is stated by the Defense Counsel that what the Court did which was in consonance with the provision of the Criminal Justice Administration Law, abridges the right of his clients (the Defendants).

"I do not know how a law that is an extant law will now bend backward over to accommodate the perceived right of a party before the Court.

"The right of a party is subject to extant laws, the laws are not subject to the right of a party.

"So, it is a beat awkward for anybody to think that the law will be bent to accommodate his whims and caprices, he said.

It will be recalled that on Thursday, 29th of April, 2021, Counsel to the Defendants, Imadegbelo SAN again filed another Application seeking leave of the court to appeal against the decision of the Court to reserved Ruling till the main case is concluded and the Presiding Judge, His Lordship, Justice Mary Ituseli granted the Application.. 

Chief Johnson Atselege and 11 Others are being arraigned for the alleged conspiracy, kidnapping and murder of Mr. Sunny Etchie, the Okaighele of Kolokolo Community in Ologbo Dukedom, Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, Edo State.

Edo State University Uzairue Ranks 4th Among Nigeria Universities

By The9jaTrend

Edo State University Uzairue, formerly Edo University Iyamho has received global award as the 4th in Nigeria in the 2021 World Impact Ranking of Universities.

The ranking was done by The Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings’ global performance tables that assess universities against the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Edo State University Uzairue secured the unprecedented 4th position in its first time of being assessed by the International Organization, having met the required criteria, for consideration for the ranking, which includes the level of extensive research work carried out by universities, global visibility, and outreach, stewardship, knowledge transfer, international outlook, webometrics development, teaching curriculum, amongst others. 

The university came behind the University of Lagos in the 3rd position, while Covenant University and the University of Ibadan, which have been on the ranking body’s platform for several years took first and second positions respectively. 

Edo State University Uzairue won the first position in the SDG Goal 4 with 42%. The SDG 4 represents quality education which measures universities’ contribution to early years and lifelong learning, their pedagogy research and their commitment to inclusive education.

SDGs 17 Partnership for the goals 33% .This particular SDGs looks at the broader way in which universities support the SDGs through collaboration with countries, promotion of best practices and publication data.

The University, in meeting with the sustainable development goals template, has a working and academic collaborations with the University of Sunderland, United Kingdom, and Worcester State University, Massachusetts, USA for educational development, and has equally deployed modern technological tools such as the CANVAS Learning Management System, Skills Laboratories for simulations amongst others to enhance learning.

Edo State University Uzairue, which has recorded landmark achievements, within the short pace of its establishment, has already graduated two sets of students in various fields of learning.

The University, which has commenced its post-graduate studies, has also ensured that all programs of the University that have been presented for the accreditation process, have been accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and all relevant professional bodies.

The “THE 2021” Impact Rankings is the 3rd edition and the overall ranking includes 1,115 Universities from 94 countries and regions. It would be said that most Universities could not be ranked owing to several reasons ranging from non registration by most universities. 

The ranking body requires a university who wishes to be ranked to apply to them and be screened against their set standards to qualify for ranking.

Alleged Murder Against Atselege and 11 Others: Case Adjoins To 26th May For Lack Of Appearance Of 1st Accused Person

By Simeon OSAJIE

His Lordship, Justice Mary Ituseli, the presiding judge of High Court of Justice, Criminal Court 4, Benin City has adjourned the case of alleged conspiracy, kidnapping and murder of Mr. Sunny Etchie, the Okaighele of Kolokolo Community against Chief Johnson Atselege, the Iyasere of Warri and 11 Others to 26th of May, 2021 for further hearing.

Before adjourning the case, Counsel to the 1st Defendant, C. O. Okeke told the Court that he received telephone call from the Correctional Centre that the 1st Accused Person is seriously sick and later told the Court that the 1st Accused Person again called only to complained that the prison staff left him behind while taking the other Accused Persons to Court. 

In view of this development, the Presiding Judge, His Lordship, Justice Mary Ituseli thereafter decided to attend to other cases while waiting for Correctional Centre staff to bring in the Accused persons.

After waited for several hours, the presiding Judge again took a break and came back before she adjourned the case to 26th May, 2021 for Continuation of Hearing.

Speaking to newsmen after the sitting, Counsel to the family of Late Sunny Etchie, Barr. Matthew Edaghese said, "The matter was slated for continuation of hearing today, but the Correctional Centre did not produced one of the Defendants and trial cannot go on in the absence of one of the Defendants, that is the provision of the law, they must all be completed, because they are on the face of the trial together.

"As a result, the case has been adjourned to 26th of May. 2021 for continuation of hearing."

Going further, Barr. Edaghese added, "At the interval, the learned SAN, the Defense Counsel made an Application before the court that he has a Motion to seek the leave of the court to Appeal, and the State Counsel rightly asked what are they appealing against, because there is no ruling delivered as we speak, but he said her knows what he want to appeal, but again, the State Counsel insist that whatever he filed was a Motion on Notice and that by virtue of the status of that Application, the State is entitled to time stipulated by law within which to react and they want to exercise that right.

"So, in the interval, the court has adjourned to tomorrow the 30th day of April for the State to react to the Application filed by the Defense Counsel, the Learned SAN on behalf of the Defendants seeking leave to appeal against what we don't know yet; by tomorrow we will know what the Motion Notice is all about.

Reacting to the drama that ensued in the court by the Defense Counsel saying that he received multiple calls from the First Accused Person that he was not feeling fine and again that he was abandoned at the Correctional Centre, Barr. Edaghese said, "Administratively,  that is a very very worrisome development, the Correctional Centre are very much aware of today's date, and it is their duty under the Constitution to convey inmates to and flo to court for trial on trial date. 

"So, if for any reason for their own negligence or inefficient and they allowed matter to drag on because they failed to do what they ought to have done, it is unfortunate and we do not think that will help the smooth administration of criminal justice, and again, we are saying they should wake up to their responsibility; flaming excuses will no longer avail them as an excuse for them to delay justice unnecessary. We are condemning that and we are vehemently opposed to that attitude because it will not help the society and the system," he concluded.

Alleged Trespass Of Property: Court Adjourns Sitting, Grant Accused Bail

By The9jaTrend

Oredo Majesty Court 1 has adjourned  case against one Charles Amadasun over an allegations of forcibly entering the property of one Pastor Fanstin Uwaibi to Wednesday 31st My, 2021.

Charles Amadasun who is being  arraigned with Charge No. MOR/74C/2021 for illegal trespass has  on Wednesday, April 28th, 2021 appeared before Majesty Court 1, Benin City, Edo State.

The accused person, Charles Amadasun is also accused for maliciously damaging asphalt laying of car park of the building.

Amadasun is accused for his allegations of forcibly entering the property of one Pastor Fanstin Uwaibi situated at 23, Ihama Road, GRA, Benin City on April 18th, 2021 with intent to erect a building and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 81 of the Criminal Code Cap 48 Vol. 11 Laws of the defunct Bendel State of Nigeria 1976 as applicable in Edo State.

The presiding Majesty, M. U. Iluobe thereafter granted Amadasun bail with  N70,000 dine plus one surety in like terms and thereafter adjourned the case to 31st May, 2021 for hearing.

Case Of Murder Against Austin Olokor Adjourns To 26th May, 2021

By The9jaTrend

A Benin High Court 4 has adjourned  the  criminal case against Austin Olokor in the alleged conspiracy, kignapping and murder of Okhuoimose Omorodion and Genesis Orji who were killed during the internal rancour in Ologbo Community in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.

The adjournment of the case was based on information by the State Prosecuting Counsel that two additional suspects have been arrested by the police awaiting former arraignment and advice by the District Police Prosecutor (DPP).

The two arrested suspects are Isaiah Akpani and Sunday Bokiti Amama. The suspects were  arrested a year after in hiding and remanded in prison custody.      

                     

The state counsel informed the Court  that the first suspect, Austine Olukor was in the court and information at the disposal of the DPP showed that additional two suspects have been arrested and it will be proper to arraign all the suspects since the matter in contention is concerning the suspects.

Counsel to the first  accused person Austin Olukor Barr.  S. O. Nweke Concorded with the position of the state counsel Barr. O. C. Obanor.

The presiding judge, Justice Mary Itsuili adjourned the matter to 26th of May, 2021.

Counsel to Nominal Complainant, Barr. Mathew Edeghase speaks on the days proceedings.

                   

Speaking with newsmen, counsel to the late  Sunny Etchie family, Barrister Mathew Edaghese, said the case have to be adjourned at the instant of the State Counsel.

"The State Counsel informed the Court that two of the suspects have been arrested and that they are presently tiding up things, so that they can consolidate all the charges against the  suspects, as they cannot be tried separately", he said.

Mr. Genesis Orji and Okhuoimose  Omorodion were killed last year in Ologbo dukedom.

Esan True Democracy Group Back Imhandegbelo For Chairman

By The9jaTrend

            Hon. Louis Imhandegbelo

    PDP Aspirant, Esan South-East LGC 

                         CHAIRMAN



Esan True Democracy Group in the Diaspora recently thrown their weight behind the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aspirant in the forthcoming local government council chairmanship election, Hon. Louis Imhandegbelo also  know as 'Young Leader' as the next chairman of Esan South-East local government council who they said can salvage the present predicaments ravaging in  the local government area.

While responding to question from newsmen at the Lagos International Airport, scribe of Esan South-East True Democracy Group in Canada, Comrade Isele Johnny Imuse commended Edo State voters for their support for the Peoples Democratic Party PDP during the September 19th Governorship Election that brought Governor Godwin Obaseki back to power for a second term.

Comrade Imuse said, "I am very happy that our great party the PDP has regained political power in Edo State. 

"As indigenes of Edo State residing Overseas, we monitored the elections Online and saw the way the electorates came out to vote the candidate of their choice, it shows that our people are becoming politically conscious of their environment.

"We are also aware of the forthcoming Local Government Elections in the State, so we want the youths to take over leadership of our State, we are tired of old politicians, Louis Imhandegbelo is a young man, we have met severally in Europe, when he told us his political plans and agenda for Esan South-East, we quickly keyed into it."

Going further, Comrade Imuse added, "I believe he got what it takes to liberate the good people of Esan South-East from the shackles of oppression, poverty and Slavery. 

"When you take a look at the entire local government area, you will discover that we are still bacward in terms of development, so we need a vibrant and radical young politician that can change the narrative.  

"Louis Imhandegbelo  is my senior, he has demonstrated his readiness to serve his people, he is not someone that will come and take the tax payers money abroad for personal use, he is a self made man. 

"So we the Esan South-East people in Canada have given him our full backing. We don't need APC government anymore, they have failed the people of Nigeria, we want someone that will  give the real political change.

"Last two years I visited my village in Uhordua, I saw Medical Doctors from UBTH given free medica attention to old men, old woman, boys, girls and students. When I ask they told me that Louis Imhandegbelo back rolled the event freely for them. For that magnanimous act alone I got interested in him. So I will give him every support needed for him to excel in the forthcoming LGA polls," he emphasized.

Edo Festival/Awards Holds September In UK

... It is going to be bigger and better, says Organizers

By The9jaTrend

                            Ken Odeh

      Director/CEO, JJBarry Conglomerate

The 10th Edition of the Edo Festival and Awards holds from 17th to 19th September, 2021 in the United Kingdom.

It is going to be bigger and better as new innovations have been introduced, it was said.

The Director/CEO, JJBarry Conglomerate, Ken Odeh made the disclosure through his representative, Osaro Osagie during a Courtesy Visit on the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council,  Sir Roland Osakue in his office in Benin City, Edo State capital recently.

Osagie accompanied by an Awardee from the 2019 Edition, Goodluck Onuigbe aka Moflex said plans for the event were already in advanced stage.

             Photo from Past Edition of 

              Edo Festival and Awards 

According to him, the Award category include the 'Best Senator, House of Representatives Member, Edo State and 'Best Edo Man of the Year; the 10th Edition,  he emphasised is a big one with a website opened for people to vote for their choice; and many others.

"We have the voting and non voting categories, whoever emerges in the voting category, organizers of the event will aid them to ease procurement of their documents."

Odeh outlined programs for the event to include: Investment Summit for Day One where potential investors in the Diaspora will meet people in Government, and other relevant authorities in Edo State, to know what, where and when to invest. Also, to get assurances that Edo is safe for investment.

   Sir Chief Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion

      the Esama of Benin Kingdom during

                 the past edition of

        Edo Festival/Awards Ceremony

"Day Two will be for Awards and music performance, and the Day Three; the Gala Night.

"All the programs have been designated for separate venues for convenience and fulfilment," he explained.

"This is a single event that would bring together more than three to four thousand Edo indigenes in the United Kingdom (UK) and all cultures in the State".

According to him, expected to grace the event, are representative of the Edo State Government, and Palace of the Oba of Benin, Omo N'Oba N' Edo, Uku Akpolokpolor, Oba Ewuare II.

Noting, that entertainment and culture are somewhat inseparable, Odeh disclosed; five musicians from Nigeria, and five in the UK will be performing at the event.

"We want to reward excellence culture in the Edo people", he asserts.

Responding, Sir Roland Osakwe commended the organizers for their efforts in the promotion of Edo State and her culture. 

He however, expressed dissatisfaction that the media have been ignored in all arrangements by the organizers since beginning of the event.

 Representatives of JJBarry Conglomerate

       with Sir Roland Osakue, Edo NUJ

    Chairman during their Courtesy Visit 

"The CEO, Ken Odeh have been organizing this Award; an event of such big magnitude without involving the media. It is not fair!

"I want to appeal therefore, that in this year's edition, at least two members of the media from Edo State should be incorporated for the obvious reasons."

Additional 2 Suspects Remanded Over The Murder Of Sunny Etchie

By The9jaTrend

The presiding judge of High Court of Justice, Criminal Court 2, Benin City, Justice G. Inadegbelo has remanded two (2) suspects, Isaiah Akpani 'male' 28 years and Sunday Bokiti Amama 'male' 27 years who went into hiding since 2020 after their alleged involvement in the cold blooded murder of Sunny Etchir, the Okaighele of Kolokolo Community in Ikpoba Okha local government area of Edo State.

Isaiah Akpani and Sunday Bokiti Amama were among other 12 suspects currently facing trial for their alleged involvenent in the murder of late Sunny Etchie last year.

Both suspects were eventually arrested a year after and brought to court on Motion Exparte, with Suit No.  B/CO/6063/2021, Pursuant to Section 294 and 296 of the Administration of Edo Criminal Justice Law of Edo State 2016.

The two  suspects are being arraigned  for conspiracy, kidnapping, murder of the Sunny Etchie, the Okaeghele of Kolokolo Community in Ologbo Dukedom of Ikpoba Okha local government area of Edo state, an offence punishable under Section 516 of the Criminal Code Act,  Cap (38, Law of Federation of Nigeria 2004.

When the matter came up today, 22nd day of April, 2021 for hearing, the State Counsel  Police Prosecutor,  P. O. Odion Esq. informed the court that the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) advice is being awaited.

Based on thd above development, the Presiding Judge, Hon. Justice G .Imadegbelo adjourned the case to the 14th of May, 2021 pending legal advice from DPP.

Speaking  to newsmen after the adjournment, counsel to late Sunny Etchie family,  Barrister Emmanuel Idahosa said,  "the DPP advise is not yet  ready, and based on the Motion Exparte, there is need for further remand of the two (2) suspects in prison custody pending the DPP advice. 

"The case file have been sent to DPP for legal advice. In the interim, the case have been adjourned to 14th of May 2021, pending the legal advice," he concluded.

Case Against Atselege and 11 Others: Court Upheld Justice Ovbiagele's Reserved Ruling

By Simeon OSAJIE

His Lordship, Justice Mary Ituseli, the presiding judge of High Court of Justice, Criminal Court 4, Benin City has upheld the earlier reserved ruling by Justice Ohimai Ovbiagele, former presiding judge in the case of alleged conspiracy, kidnapping and murder of Mr. Sunny Etchie, the Okaighele of Kolokolo Community against Chief Johnson Atselege, the Iyasere of Warri and 11 Others.

In her words, Justice Mary Ituseli said, "objection are not taken, defendants are hereby asked to enter their plea".

Going further, Justice Ituehi added, "it will be proper to upheld the earlier reserved  ruling for their preliminary objection till when judgement date is ready so that it will be deliver alongside with judgement". 

The case was thereafter adjourned to 29th of April, 2021 for hearing.

Speaking to newsmen after the sitting, Counsel to the family of late Mr. Sunny Etchie, the Okaighele of Kolokolo Community, Barr. Matthew Edaghese said, "As you all aware, the former judge that was hearing this case before his transfer had earlier reserved the ruling for their preliminary objection till when judgement date is ready so that it will be deliver alongside with judgement which is the provision of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL).

"Then again, the defence counsel brought this application afresh before this new judge and the judge today had also upheld the earlier opinion of the former judge to the effect that the ruling will be delivered alongside with the main judgement".

Going further, Barr. Edaghese emphasised. "the actual intention of that application was to abort this trial to truncate hearing, l think that intention has not succeeded, hearing will go on, justice will be serve in this case."

Meanwhile, the Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) and some members of Ologbo Community held a protest against the judicial delay of justice  in a case of alleged conspiracy,  kidnapping and murder of  Mr. Sunny Etchie, the Okaighele of Kolokolo Community, Genesis Orji and Okuoimoise Omorodion by Chief Johnson Atselege, the Iyasere of Warri and 11 Others.

The protesters with different inscription, "Johnson is a Criminal', "Government should hear the cry of Ologbo people", "Sunny Must Get Justice, "John is a murderer" and "We need Justice" were led to the NUJ premises by president of Benin Solidarity (BSM)  Elder Curtis Eghosa Ugbo.

Addressing Newsmen, Elder Curtis Eghosa Ugbo said they were at the NUJ to register their displeasure of  judicial delay of criminal case against Chief Johnson Atselege, the Iyasere of Warri and 11 Others for alleged conspiracy, kidnapping and murder of Mr. Sunny Etchie, the Okaighele of Kolokolo Community, Genesis Orji and Okuoimoise Omorodion.

Elder Ugbo said, "we are not happy with the judicial delay of a criminal case against one Johnson Atseleghe, the Iyasere of Warri and 11 Others who involved in the killing of innocent citizen of Ologbo Dukedon in Ikpoba Okha local government area of Edo State where he is residing. He has been involved in a lot of criminal activities, for almost a year now, we have being fighting a case of conspiracy, kignapping and murder of Sunny Etchie, the Okaighele of Kolokolo Community, Genesis Orji and Okuoimoise Omorodion.

"This 3 persons were killed in cold blood by Johnson Atseleghe and his boys in Ologbo Dukedom, and as you all know, we have been fighting this struggle since last year, and just two days back, some of Johnson Atseleghe's boys were captured in Ologbo Dukedom, Johnson gave them the impression that nothing will happen since he was granted bail.

“We cannot be bought, we want justice for those that had been killed unjustly by Johnson Atseleghe and his boys, some of his boys had already confessed to their crime, and we have proof of their confession; we have video evidence of their statement made to the police of their involvement in murder of Sunny Etchie, Genesis Orji and Okuoimoise Omorodion."

Also speaking, the Okaighele of Evboba Community in Ologbo Dukedom, Mr. Osarumwense Osaghae said,  "We are tired and fed up for the delay of justice over the death of our brothers, Sunny Etchie, Sunny Etchie, Genesis Orji and Okuoimoise Omorodion. 

"We are surprised that Johnson Atseleghe was granted bail, this is something that is bothering us. Is the law meant for ordinary citizen of this country? Are the rich men in our society above  the law?  This questions need answer from the authorities", he said.

Adding her voice, a lady among the protesters, Eseho Adun said, "I must say that I am still in shock while Johnson Atseleghe is working freely like a free and innocent man till date. All his boys had confessed to the police that they were sent by Johnson Atseleghe to murder our brother Sunny Etchie who was buried and later exhumed and throw into the river, and they also confessed their involvement of the murder of Genesis Orji and Okuoimoise Omorodion.

"Johnson Atseleghe suppose not to be walking freely, because as at yesterday, another of his boys who was arrested confessed that one Johnson Atseleghe sent them to kill Sunny Etchie, Genesis Orji and Okuoimoise Omorodion.

"Our demand is that, Johnson Atseleghe should be return back to prison because our people are afraid, he is still treathening our people.  Why should such man enjoy free movement in our society. He think that because he is rich and have connection to government, there is no law that will hold him.

"We are begging the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki to act quickly so that the people of Ologbo community can go back to their businesses. 

"The Benins residing in Ologbo community - are they not  part of Edo state who need protection from the government?" she asked.

"Johnson Atseleghe should return to Delta where he comes from and let peace reign in our state, Edo," she appealed.

Printing of N60 Billion By CBN Was Politically Motivated, Says Chief Orbih

By The9jaTrend

                   Chief Dan Osi Orbih

     South-South National Vice Chairman 

        Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)

South-South National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Dan Osi Orbih said the outbursts and criticisms showered on the Edo State governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki over his comments on the printing of N60 billion for the payment of March salary by the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Godwin Emefiele was politically motivated.

Orbih made the remark on Monday while receiving the Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin Adebo who led some youth on Courtesy Call on him in Benin City.

“I will like to use this opportunity to say something about the recent outburst of the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele over the sad revelations by the Edo State governor that the federal government printed over N60billion to be able to make up the money required to pay their statutory allocations to the various tiers of government.

“To me, the outburst was political. I will like to condemn the CBN governor’s remarks because he said so much without convincing Nigerians about the economics to make the decision to print over N60billion to meet the statutory allocations”, he said.

Chief Orbih emphasised that the revelations by the Edo State governor was a clear attestation that all is not well with the nation’s economy and that if drastic measures are not taken to address the current situation, it might be worse than what happened in Uganda.

“To me, that was a public admission that all is not well with our economy.

“We need the youths to come up with ideas and programs that will help this government come out of their mess because the revelations by Godwin Obaseki is a sad reminder of what happened in Uganda under former President Idi Amin.

“No government can sustain the economy of a country with that type of abuse”, he said.

The South-South National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), Chief Orbih noted that what gave the CBN governor the effontry to take on the Edo State governor was because of the enormous power vested on him just as he stressed that it would be better if such power is striped off him and cause him to be responsible and loyal to the people rather than the government that has appointed him.

“I think it is time for us as a country to make it very clear that whoever assumes the office of CBN governor should have his loyalty to the people of our country and not the government.

” That is why we must take it seriously this revelations by Godwin Obaseki.

“It is my prayer and hope that very soon the CBN must come out clearly to tell Nigerians that they have what it takes to bailout us out from this predicament”, he added.

The South-South VC added that the shocking revelation by the Edo State governor on the printing of money was a bad omen to the international community that the country is not safe and viable for businesses, stressing that instead of looking for how to correct such misfortune, he is busy trying to just his action.

“His submission that we are in a very serious financial mess was a loud message even to foreign investors that Nigeria is a-no-go-area as far as investment is concerned.

”You can not send that type of message and at the same time you want to bully those who are genuinely concerned about what is happening in our country today by threatening to ask states that borrowed money to pay up immediately”, he said.

He assured the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and his delegations of his massive support in ensuring youth inclusiveness in the nation’s politics.

Earlier, the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Ogundoyin Adebo, said they were in his house to congratulate him on his newly elected position as the National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), South-South and to also pledge their loyalty and support in order for him to succeed in his task of moving the party forward.

Ogundoyin pleaded with him to rally round the youths to ensure that their dreams of becoming the President and Vice.

Governor Obaseki Merely Offered A Patriotic Advise - Maduabum

By The9jaTrend

The Peoples Democratic Party Governors Forum, has reacted to the Progressive Governors Forum to join the fray in the manner it did by its recent statement stacking Governor Obaseki who merely warned the monetary authorities about the danger of  uncontrolled use of Ways and Means of printing of Nigeria currency to support government's expenditure.

In a press statement issued and signed by the Director-General of the Forum, Hon. CID Maduabum said, "is alarmed at the partisan slant a patriotic advise to the Federal Government by His Excellency,  Governor Godwin Obaseki , on its monetary policies has assumed

"It is unhelpful for the Progressive Governors Forum to join the fray in the manner it did by its recent statement attacking the bona fides of Governor Obaseki who merely warned the monetary authorities about the danger of uncontrolled use of Ways and Means, that is, the printing of Naira, to support government's expenditure.

"Governor Obaseki has a background in economics and finance and is a very responsible Governor who talks in a measured way. His advise, which by the way has been corroborated by none other than the Governor of the CBN himself, and the international ratings agency FITCH, should be heeded rather than being crucified for sounding a note of caution.

"No doubt the Federal government has been supporting the States in the area of agriculture, budget, refund of Federal Government executed projects by States and a few other areas of intervention. Is CBN trying to be vindictive and vengeful by recalling its loans to the States because of an informed advise by a Governor?. It is unfortunate that governance has plummeted to this level."

Hon. Maduabum further advised the federal government to plug financial leakages in the system and curb wasteful expenditure of billions of Naira on projects that can be executed by the private sector.

"The Federal government should plug financial leakages in the system and curb wasteful expenditure of billions of Naira on projects that can be executed by the private sector and save a lot of money in the process, thereby relying less on Ways and Means by the CBN, which brings pressure on the Naira with its inflationary consequences. Inflation in Nigeria is currently at 18.2%, the highest in recent years. We should all be concerned to find ways of stemming the tide.

"We are all involved in the urgent task of rescuing the economy of Nigeria and nobody should indeed play the OSTRICH ," he warned.

Governor Obaseki’s Statement, A Wake Up Call On President Buhari-Led Govt, Says Aiziegbemi

By The9jaTrend

Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)  has thrown its weight behind Mr. Godwin Obaseki, Executive  Governor of Edo State over his statement that the Federal Government printed the sum of N60 Billion to be shared for 36 States of the federation including Federal capital Territory, Abuja.

You will recall that Governor Godwin Obaseki had in a statement recently  advised the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed to rally Nigerians to stem the obvious fiscal slide facing the country and take urgent steps to end the current monetary rascality to prevent the prevailing economic challenge from degenerating further.

Addressing newsmen on Thursday 15th April, 2021 at the party secretariat in Benin City, Edo State Chairman of PDP Dr. Tony Aziegbemi described Governor Obaseki’s statement as a wake up call on Nigerians including President Muhammadu Buhari, the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government to revert the rising national debt of N32 trillion, 18.17 percent inflation rate and 43 percent unemployment rate in Nigeria.

The PDP Chairman who predicted that doomsday lies ahead if the federal government continue on the path of perfidy, citing over 85 percent current expenditure and less than 15 percent capital expenditure in the the 2021 budget, assured that Edo State has already developed economic plan of action to mitigate any unforseen contingency.

“We can’t continue to live on borrowing and printing of money, while relying on unstable, fluctuating and uncertainty in the price of oil. No government can plan with these factors.

“Obaseki’s comment was to alert Nigerians and policy makers at all level to begin to think how we can navigate out of the economic and financial crisis facing the Country”, he emphasised.

Aziegbemi also clears the air on the implementation of government policies by Governor Obaseki in area of job creation, provision of infrastructure through prudent management of resources in the State.

Edo State University Uzairue Matriculates 593 Students

By The9jaTrend

The Edo State University Uzairue has matriculated Five hHundred and Ninety Three (593) Students in the 2020/2021Academic Session and inducted first set of Post Graduate Students into the University.

Performing the ceremony of matriculation and induction of the students, the Vice Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor reiterated the management commitment to ensuring that all programmes offered by the Institution are completed within the stipulated time frame.

Engr. Prof. Aluyor, used the opportunity to enumerate some of the university’s achievements to include its ranking as 3rd in Nigeria and amongst the best state owned universities in the 2018 Open Educational Resources Ranking of Nigerian Universities by the National Universities Commission (NUC), first in Nigeria to own an Anatomage, which is the most advanced digital device for the training of medical students and first university in Nigeria and West Africa to acquire the CANVAS Learning Management System (LMS) for teaching.

The Vice Chancellor, who encouraged students to make the best use of the facilities provided in the university to become grounded and employable after graduation, also warned against acts that are inimical to the university environment and the society at large.

“We have made a commitment to run all our programmes within the stipulated time for the progammes. You can attest to the fact that we have kept faith with this commitment for our undergraduates; despite the COVID pandemic, we graduated our students in 2020 as planned”, he emphasized.

While assuring the students of the university’s resolve to continue to produce the highest quality graduates, Engr. Prof. Aluyor, however appreciated the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki for his support in making the university achieve its set goals over the years.

Congratulating the new students for their successful admission into the world class university, Prof. Aluyor called on the parents to use the advantage of the Learning Management System (LMS) to monitor their wards academic performance at home.

Meanwhile, some of the students and parents who could not hide their joy for being among the lucky ones described the day as a dream come true.

For Miss Victory Okubi in the Department of Mass Communication, she feels blessed to be part of those that matriculated while Ebuka Izuwanne law department feels happy to be counted among those in the university.

Former Chief of Staff to former President, Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Mike Ogiadomhe advised the newly admitted students to direct their energies to the course for which they are in the university and savour the environment so that in the end they will be found worthy in character and in learning.

According to him, “this is one of the best universities we have in the country as at today by standards and I will like it to be the best university in Nigeria”.

There were also goodwill messages from guests who participated virtually via zoom, which included, British-Nigerian UK based Scholar/Entrepreneur, Rev. Dr. Prisca Richards, Prof. Ben Ugheoke and Charles Aloaye Asekomhe respectively.

Court Adjourns Case Against Misan Kaka To May, 2021

By The9jaTrend

                  Mr. Oritsemisan Kaka

                Lead Murder Suspect of

Late Sunny Etchie of Kolokolo Community 

The lead  suspects to the murder of the Okhaighele of Kolokolo Community, Ologbo Dukedom in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area of Edo State. Mr. Sunny Etchie on Tuesday. 13th day of April, 2021 appeared at the State High Court, Criminal Court 1 presided over by Justice Efe Ikponmwonba 

The suspect identified as  Mr. Oritsemisan Kaka was said to have been on the run since June last year when the victim was killed and buried and was arrested a year later.

When the matter came up for hearing, the Counsel to the accused person,  O. C Okeke informed the court that the DPP advise is being awaited.

Based on this,  the Presiding Judge, Honourable Justice Efe Ikponmwonba  adjourned the case to the 26th of May 2021.

Speaking with newsmen after the adjournment,  Barrister Mathew Edaghese  counsel to late Sunny Etchie's family,  said the DPP advise is not ready and based on the previous application, there is need for extension of the order.

"Since the need has not  happened, there is need for extension of order to remand the suspect in custody till the 26th day of May 2021," he concluded.

Misan Kaka who has been at large since the kidnapping , conspiracy and  murder of the Okaeghele of Kolokolo Community, Sunny Etchie was eventually arrested a year after and he is being arraigned separately.

Misan Kaka  is  facing trial for the kidnapping, conspiracy and murder of Sunny Etchie , Okaeghele of Kolokolo in Ologbo Dukedom of Ikpoba Okha local government area of Edo state.

   

                    

I Determine What Happens In My Community Land - Ohen Dares Oba, Govt.

ByThe9jaTrend

The Community Development Associations CDA in communities and villages in Edo State seem to have staged a deadly comeback against the backdrop of the position of the the palace of the Oba of Benin and Edo State government on land allocation, land grabbing and double dealing on land matters. 

The latest, among hundreds of such victims who are helpless and have lost their lands and property to the avarice of the CDA leadership is the Former Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Edo State Council and Principal Editor, Sparknewsnaija, Otunba Mike ALADENIKA, who at a press conference in Benin City alleged that the OHEN of OKHUOROMI village in Benin City, Chief  Ovbokhan Igbinovia trespassed "on my land measuring 100 × 100 feet at Okhuoromi, destroyed the foundation of two blocks of three bedroom flats built up to DPC level and sold the land to someone else.."

Mike Aladenika  who was armed with a video playback of relics of the destroyed property, his petition to relevant authorities among other documents said " I am forced to cry out now because I have realized that there are hundreds of innocent person out there who have suffered the same victimisation but were helpless.

"Can you imagine that the same Ohen validly allocated the said land to his cousin, UYI ENADEGHE, who sold the said land to me, to the knowledge of the Ohen as he Personally facilitated the documentation and signing of the deed of transfer, years back.

"The Ohen collected his traditional respect and acknowledgement from me, while the OKAIGHELE (youth leader) collected the sum of hundred thousand naira (100,000 Naira) from me in lieu of  the required traditional cooking and they asked me to commence work on the land.

"All these happened about three years ago. Between then and December 2020, there was no contention on the land until the Ohen, Chief  Ovbokhan Igbinovia, came to encroach, destroyed and resold the land to one UCHE".

The former NUJ Chairman while fielding questions from Journalists on efforts made to retrieve his property before now said " I have approach so many well meaning Edo citizens to talk to him to make him see reason. A principal officer of the Benin Traditional Council (BTC), top political leaders and some of his friends who were privy to my ownership of the land called and severally met with him all to no avail.

"Rather for him to retrace his steps even when some people told him that his action to have demolished foundation is a forbidden act, he said he is the one that can determine whatever happens in his domain, stressing that he is not subject to any other authorities.

"My fear now is that my life is been threatened because I am asking for what rightly belongs to me but I have my mind made up that I will not give up on this crusade as this will also liberate many who are currently suffering the same issue."

BIRTHDAY GREETINGS!!!

.   High Chief Tom Ikimi, FNIA, KSG, CON

                 The Inneh of Igueben

             The Akinrogun of Ife Is 77!

Chief Tom Ikimi, your dedication, determination, and vision inspires us to always give our best. You have always been so inspiring to us and it is our pleasure and pride to be able to work with you. 

On behalf of all PDP members in Edo State, We wish you a very happy birthday, good health and God’s guidance as you continue to support, guide and counsel us in the upcoming years.

HEARTY CHEERS TO PASTOR ITUAH IGHODALO

Dear Pastor Ituah Ighodalo

            60 Hearty Cheers to you Sir! 

Words are not enough to express the joy of seeing you attain such lofty height in God's vineyard as a Preacher of the Gospel.

I like to join millions of your friends and family to wish you Happy Birthday.

 I wish you long life in divine health and prosperity. I also wish you increased Grace and Wisdom. 

In your constituency, your Local Government Area, Esan South-East in particular and Edo State in general, we are proud of what you represent and value you have brought thus far in supporting this Government of Governor Godwin N. Obaseki to liberate us from the shackle of "dark forces". We are forever grateful. 

I'm particularly happy to use this opportunity of your Birthday to say Thank you! Thank you and Thank you!!

May God continue to Bless and Increase you in all fronts.

Congratulations!

.                            Signed:

                Hon. Peter I. AGUELE 

       Immediate Past Executive Chairman             Esan South-East Local Govt. Council

Create Enabling Environment For Citizens to Earn Good Living - EDUOW - Urges Edo Govt.

By The9jaTrend

As Christians across the world marked the death and resurrection of our Lord and savour Jesus Christ, the Edo Dynasty United Organization Worldwide, in the spirit of the celebration appealed to Edo State government led by Mr. Godwin Obaseki to create an enabling environment for its citizens to earn a good living.

       Comrade Brown Ehigie Osemwengie

                 President and Founder 

       Edo Dynasty United Organization                              Worldwide (EDUOW)

In a telephone interview with The9jaTrend, President and Founder of the Organization, Comrade Brown Ehigie Osemwengie charged Christians  to imbibe the culture of love, tolerance and forgiveness noting that the Almighty God is the author of love, reminding them,  "For God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son that whoever believed in him will not perish but have eternal life." 

He urged Christians and non Christians to love their neighbours as themselves just same manner our Lord Jesus Christ loved the Church for that is the true way to achieve a better and peaceful society noting that without peace there cannot be meaningful development which is in line with the Vision of Edo Dynasty Organization for Edo state.

"Today Easter Sunday, we thought it necessary to reach out to the less privileged and the needing in our society, hence members of Benin branch of the Organization were organized to visit different Orphanage Home and Hospitals to give out food items and facilitate with them for the restoration of Hope by our Lord and Savour Jesus Christ," he said.

While encouraging Nigerians to be law abiding citizens, Comrade Osemwengie called on other NGO’s to take a cue from  Edo Dynasty United Organization Worldwide by providing forvthe needing in the society and also appealing to Edo state government to create an enabling environment for the citizens to earn a good living.

"Edo Dynasty United Organization Worldwide's dream is to see Edo State be  turn into the Dubia of West Africa just as the heartbeat of Nation, and we can only achieve this by becoming responsible citizens so as to encourage investors to make it happen, government can not do it allow, it’s a collective responsibility," he emphasized.

In a related development, the Benin branch of  Edo Dynasty United Organization Worldwide, in line with Christian faith for brethren to love one another paid a humanitarian visit to Uyiosa Orphanage Home in Benin City, Edo State capital with gift and food items which included Cartons of Indomie, Creates of Eggs, Sanitaries, Bags of Rice and Beans, Toothpastes, etc. 

The Matron of Uyiosa Orphanage Home home, Mrs. Sarah Amadin while receiving the delegation led by it's State Administrator, Comrade Efe Bevy thanked the initiator and prayed to God Almighty  to promote the Organisation to greater heights.

The visitation to Orphanage Home and hospital is part of the activities lined up for the Organization's Annual Easter reach-out project in memorial celebration of the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ who despite his divine mission was condemned and crucified for the sins of mankind.

Members of the Benin Branch of Edo Dynasty United Organization Worldwide also visited some hospitals across Benin metropolis to facilitate with them in the spirit of Easter celebration. 

The Benin branch members of the Organisation were also at the front of Holy Cross Cathedral, Mission Road, Benin City for show of love to beggars in our society by distributing food items to them.

Speaking to newsmen, the Edo State Administrator. Comrade Efe Bevy said the Organization will continue to do its best to elevate the suffering of the downtrodden in the society.