NATIONWIDE: PUWOV Disrupt Edo Civil Society Organisations Protest

By The9jaTrend

A nationwide peaceful protest in Edo State by the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CCSO) was today, Monday 31st 2021 disrupted in Benin by Public Works Volunteers (PUWOV), agents of the Edo State Governments.

The protesters who addressed members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at the council Secretariat in Benin, alleged that they were attacked based on the allegation that the protest was against the administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Dr. Osagie Obayuwana, Edo State former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, called for the disbandment of the Public Works Volunteers (PUWOV).

He said that the protesters had gathered at the New Benin Market area of the City where they intended to march from to NUJ when men of PUWOV swooped on them.

Obayuwana alleged that a laptop from where they were playing music for the road show was smashed alongside some of their banners by the Exo state agency.

According to him, “We gathered at New Benin Market, where we were to move across the city when some members  of PUWOV attacked us.

“They destroyed our banners, took out our laptop with which we were playing music and smashed it; they say we were against the government of Obaseki, how can that be?”

Carrying several placards with inscriptions as "GOVERNMENT SECURE THE PEOPLE", "SECURITY FOR ALL IS A RIGHT", "NIGERIA BELONGS TO ALL OF US", "ABOLISH POVERTY TO HAVE SECURITY", "NIGERIANS FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHT, etc, the CSOs said they were out to register their protest against insecurity and poverty in the country.

Speaking further, Obayuwana said, “Our coming out today is to say that the Nigerian people can no longer keep quiet, at no time in the history of our country has the insecurity situation ever been as terrible as it is today.

"You can’t travel from town to town, even within your village, you can’t go from your house to your farm; children in schools have been objects of kidnap.

"Seventeen governors have called on the president to speak to the nation; even yesterday (Sunday), over 200 students were kidnapped in an Islamic school in Niger State; enough is enough.

“From our own assessment of the situation, we have seen that there is a direct relationship between insecurity and poverty.

“Where there is no justice, there cannot be peace and we are saying that the security of life is a fundamental right that all of us are entitled to, and it is also a duty that the government owned to all of us.

“They should abolish all anti-poor policies; we demand for state police and even city police, we condemn the killing of policemen and destruction of government facilities."

He also condemned the sack of workers by the Kaduna State government and the planned increase in the petrol price.

Reacting to the alleged disruption of the peaceful protest by CCSO,  the Coordinator of PUWOV, Mutari Osagie debunked the claim that the protest was disrupted by his men.

He noted that inasmuch as the State Government encourages everyone to protest as part of their legitimate right, it must be done in such a way as not to undermine security of the State.

He said that what the POWOV did was simply to request the protesters to go to the Secretariat of the NUJ and thereafter Government House to register their grievances.

“There was no property of the protesters that was destroyed by my officers today and neither are we preventing anybody from protesting.

“However, if we must protest, let’s do it in such a way as not to allow hoodlums to hijack the protest in other not to put the fragile security in the country and Edo in jeopardy,” he stated.

SUPREME COURT VERDICT: I Am Not Surprise At Obaseki's Victory - Tenebe

By The9jaTrend

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo North Senatorial District,  Hon. Henry  Duke Tenebe  has  lashed out at the APC leaders in the State for leading their people on a journey destined for nowhere.

Heaving a sigh of relief on the outcome of the court ruling, a visibly excited Hon. Tenebe, a former State Organising Secretary of the PDP, declared his faith in the ability of the judiciary and that the good people of Edo State were not in any way surprised at the verdict of the Supreme Court.

In a press statement issued and signed by Hon. Tenebe and made available to newsmen reads, "The APC leaders knew from the onset that they were on a wild goose chase but refused to retrace their steps because of ego and pride.  Now that their ego have been fatally bruised, one wonders what their next line of action would be."

The Supreme Court had, in a landmark ruling delivered  in Abuja, upheld an earlier judgement reaffirming Godwin Obaseki as Edo State governor. 

He enjoined APC leaders in the State to stop using the court cases to hoodwink its members, noting that they would always meet their Waterloo since they have chosen to be "bad losers". 

Referring to the futility of the APC's attempt to unseat a God ordained and Edo people sanctioned governor, Hon. Tenebe ascribed the APC desperation to an iroko tree which those who tried to shake it  found themselves shaken by its might and awe. 

He further described the Supreme Court verdict as a vindication of the will of God and the people of Edo state.

Governor Obaseki had earlier in his victory statement corroborated the position of Hon. Tenebe, when he said that the ruling has put to rest the "diabolical controversy contrived by opposition elements over my credentials and out to shame the individuals that sought to swindle Edo people with falsehood and lies in pursuit of pecuniary gains".  

Hon. Tenebe congratulated the  Governor Obaseki and his deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu on their deserved victory and enjoined Edo people to continue to render undiluted understanding and support as the administration strives to turn the State into an economic hub.

Okodugha Congratulates Obaseki. Shaibu Over Supreme Court Victory

The9jaTrend

Executive Director of Edo State Internal Revenue and Compliance, Mr. Emmanuel Ehimare Okodugha has congratulated His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Edo State,  Mr. Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki and his deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu  and the entire Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) family in Edo State over Friday Supreme Court judgement that upheld the party victorious election of September 19, 2020  Governorship Election.

Mr. Okodugha described the judgement as an affirmation of the people’s will as expressed through their votes in the 2020 Gubernatorial election.

In a statement made available to newsmen, the Edo State Internal Revenue boss said, “It is a great day for democracy. The highest court in the country has finally settled the controversies surrounding the Edo State  Governorship Election and affirmed Governor Obaseki's victory.

“Hearty congratulations His Excellencygsj, Mr. Godwin Obaseki and his Deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu. A bigger congratulation to the people of Edo State, who are the real winners in the context,” he opined.

Imhandegbelo Jubilates As Obaseki Win At Supreme Court

By The9jaTrend

One of the leading contestants in the forthcoming Local Government Elections in the Edo State, Hon. Louis Imhandegbelo has took to the streets of Ubiaja the administrative headquarters of  Esan South-East Local Government Area jubilating over the victory of His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki and his deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu at the Supreme Court today, the 28th day of May, 2021.

The main opposition in Edo state, the APC, had challenged the genuinity  of Mr. Godwin Obaseki's undergraduate degree certificate obtained from the University of Ibadan. 

Although the certificate case was a pre-election matter which has undergone the fire crucible of legal jurisprudence of all levels of courts whose judgement were all in favour of Mr. Godwin Obaswki, the Edo State Governor.

Speaking to newsmen shortly after the Supreme Court judgement, Louis Imhandegbelo, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain said "No statement could be more loud than this, after the people have spoken now the judiciary has spoken louder even for the deaf to hear."

Imhandegbelo said "The blind can see better now that they have gone everywhere and they got the message that Edo State can never be Lagos or Imo states".

Today's judgement finally put a seal to the "certificate scandal".

Aguele Congratulates Obaseki On Total Victory At Supreme Court

By The9jaTrend

The immediate past Executive Chairman of Esan South-East Local Government Council, Hon. Peter Iziogie Aguele has once again congratulated the Executive Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Governor Godwin Noghaghese Obaseki and his Deputy, Comrade Philip Shaiubu on their total victory at the Supreme Court few minutes ago.

In a press statement issued and signed by Hon. Aguele made available to newsmen who could not help but took to the streets within Government Reservation Area (GRA) in Benin City to celebrate the victory of the covenant Governor of Edo State along with his friends and progressive minded people of Edo state.

The political don in reaction to the judgement by the Apex Court described the verdict as total victory for democracy, rule of law and the good people of Edo state. 

He opined that the Executive Governor of Edo State who doubled as the sacred mandate of the good people of the State and  Mayor of Ogbane noting  the good people of the state who have elected and re-elected the people's Governor to lead them has vowed to defend their mandate and support the Governor in his deliberate move to restore the lost glory to Edo State by Making Edo Great Again (MEGA) as they have never had it so good. 

Hon. Aguele expressed his appreciation to the Nigeria Judiciary for restoring the hope of the common man and extended his profound gratitude to the ever resilient people of the State for their faith in the Governor/Deputy and urged them to persevere as their support and cooperation towards the success of the MEGA vision remained sacrosanct as no government can succeed without the support and cooperation of the people. 

Obaseki's Victory Is Sacred Mandate Of The People, Says Hon. Aguele

Immediate past Executive Chairman of Esan South-East Council, Hon. Peter Iziogie Aguele has described the victorious Governor of Edo state as the sacred mandate of the good people of the state as Court of Appeal has again reaffirmed the victory of the people's governor and the mayor of Ogbanee through a historic judgement on Wednesday the 26th May 2021 and consequently slammed the Appellants ADP, APP with a fine of N1 Million.

Hon. Aguele who reacted to the historic judgement by the Court of Appeal  through a press conference in his private residence at the Government Reservation Area (GRA) in Benin City shortly after the verdict by the court, describing the judgement as victory for democracy and the good people of Edo state who has elected and reelected Governor Godwin Noghaghese Obaseki and his Deputy Comrade Philip Shaiubu and vowed to stand by them  in their determination to deliver the dividends of democracy to the state come rain or shine, noting  that the Governor Obaseki remained the sacred mandate of the good people of Edo state. 

The former Council boss in his words said, "Your Excellency, I am indeed elated both in spirit, body and soul, though the historic judgement reaffirming your victory did not come as a surprise but another  testament of your sacred mandate by the good people of Edo State to who you have served selflessly in Making Edo Great Again (MEGA).

He thanked the good people of Edo State for their collective resolve to stand by the governor and his deputy in their voyage towards the overall transformation of the State and urged them to persevere in same spirit as no government can succeed without the support and cooperation of the people he governed.

Obaseki Mandate Is Sacrosanct - Tenebe

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, Hon. Henry Duke Tenebe has advised Action Democratic Party (ADP) and other political parties  in the State to  braced up with the reality on ground and stop pursuing shadows which can lead to self destruction.

Hon. Henry Duke Tenebe's statement is connected to the Court of Appeal judgement that upheld the ruling of the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal against the Action Democratic Party (ADP), reaffirming the victory of Governor Godwin Obaseki at the 2020 gubernatorial election.

The PDP chieftain in a statement, said that  the ADP  along with their collaborators are much aware that Governor Godwin  Obaseki won the September 19 Edo State Governorship Election on a popular mandate freely given by the Edo people which they hold sacrosanct.

The Obaseki judicial victory comes barely two months after the Elections Petitions Tribunal struck out the petition by the ADP and its governorship candidate, Iboi Emmanuel's challenging the outcome of the September 19, 2020 governorship election, which returned Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as governor of Edo State.

 Tenebe, a former Edo North Senatorial Chairman and State Organizing Secretary of the Peoples Democratic party further said that the Obaseki mandate from the people across the state  is sacred hence cannot be toyed with by political charlatans.

The PDP State Leader, however, appealed to those behind the curtain using the ADP as a decoy to join hands with Governor Obaseki in his agenda of making Edo great again rather than pursuing shadows which is deceptive.

The  Appeal Court Judgement further corroborate Tenebe's submission which said that "the inclusion of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, as respondents in the petition, was a ploy by the APC candidate to fight his case through another petitioner, describing it as a case of ‘squeezing the rock for water’."

             Hon. Henry Duke Tenebe

Delivering the judgement in favour of the governor, the Presiding Justice, Hon. Justice M. A. Owoade dismissed the main appeal, the preliminary objection and the cross appeal and awarded cost.

He then congratulated  the Governor and his deputy on their well deserved victory at the Court of Appeal.

Obaseki Wins Again As Appeal Court Slams Appellant with 1.2 Million Fine

By The9jaTrend

The Court of Appeal, sitting in Benin, today, 26th May, 2021 upheld the ruling of the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal against the Action Democratic Party (ADP), reaffirming the victory of Governor Godwin Obaseki at the 2020 Gubernatorial Election.

The Judgement comes barely two months after the Elections Petition Tribunal struck out the petition by the ADP and its governorship candidate, Iboi Lucky, challenging the outcome of the September 19, 2020 Governorship Election, which returned Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as governor of Edo State.

The Appeal Court, delivering the judgement in the case marked CA/B/EPT/GOV/01 & 1A/2021 Action Democratic Party & Another Versus INEC & 2Ors, held that Obaseki did not forge his certificates with which he contested the 2020 governorship election, dismissing the appeal filed by the ADP and its candidate.

In another case marked /B/EPT/GOV/02/2021 Action Peoples Party (APP) Vs Godwin N. Obaseki & 2Ors., the Court unanimously upheld the Judgment of the Tribunal and dismissed the Appeal with costs assessed at N600,000 each, on two different counts, as the governor won all eight issues for determination in the appeal.

Delivering the judgement in favour of the governor, the Presiding Justice, Hon. Justice M.A. Owoade, dismissed the main appeal, the preliminary objection and the cross appeal.

The Judge noted that the inclusion of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu as respondents in the petition, was a ploy by Ize-Iyamu to fight his case through another petitioner, describing it as a case of ‘squeezing the rock for water’.

Murder Trial: Court Adjourns Case Against Chief Atseleghe, 11 Others To 31st May, 2nd June

By The9jaTrend

Case between Edo State Versus Iyasere of Warri,  Chief Johnson Atselege and

11 others in the alleged murder of Mr. Sunny Etchie, the Okaighele of Kolokolo Community, in Ologbo Dukedom, Edo State, Nigeria , has been adjourned to 31st May and 2nd of June,  2021 for continuous hearing.

During today's trial, the Prosecution Witness (PW.1) Sgt. Otoide Marvelous tendered the Statement of the First Accused Person, Oluwa Esimijie before the court for admittance which was taken. But the Defence Counsel, O. T. Okeke objected to admission of the statement, alledging that the statement was not voluntarily but was taken under duress.

                   Mr. Oritsemisan Kaka

                Lead Murder Suspect of

                     Late Sunny Etchie

He argued that his client was forced against his will to sign the statement as such, it will not be fair to admit it as his client statement.

Based on the objection,  the Presiding Judge, His Lordship, Justice Mary Ituseli adjourned the case for further hearing to enable the court conduct trial within trial. 

According to her, the case was adjourn to 31st of May and 2nd of June  2021 respectively.

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

The Defendants' offence contravened Sections 516, 327 and 316 (1) punishable under Section 319 (1) of the Criminal Code Act , Cap C38, Laws of Federation of Nigeria 2004 and Section 2 (2) punishable under Section 3 of the Kidnapping Prohibition (Amendment) Law, 2013 of Edo State.

All the  8 Accused Persons including, the Iyatsere of Warri kingdom, Chief Johnson Atseleghe,  Felicia Otikpere, female - 55, Oluwa Esimije - 38, Monday Iluwa - 58, Ayokotse Robinson - 54, Nosa Omoregie - 54, Mofe Samuel - 40, Magnanimous Omawumi - 40, Ayuwa Mofe - 65, Amerete Ejiro - 25, Onyeburutan Jeffrey - 25 and Benjamin Erewa - 39 were present in Court.

In a related development, Edo State Versus Austin Olokor,  over the murder of  Okhuomose Omorodion and Genesis Orji, which was also slated for today was adjourned to 2nd day of June, 2021.

In the last adjourment date, the State Counsel did inform the court that he intends to file process to get the necessary paper to get the other suspects that were arrested a year after the arrest of the other ones, so that they can consolidate all of them in one charge sheet for easy dispensation of Justice.

          Late Okhuomose Omorodion

                    and Genesis Orji

State Counsel thereafter informed the court that the production warrant to enable the one that has been in  detection to appear in court is on, adding that plea can not be taken in the  absent of the Accused Person.

The court however adjourned to 2nd June, 2021 to enable the remanded  suspects be released by the Correctional  Centre.

BSM Faults Gani Adams Claim On Celebration Of Oduduwa By Oba

By The9jaTrend

Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) worldwide has lambasted Onakakanfo, Iba Gani Adams for congratulating His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N' Edo, Uku Akpolokpolor, Oba Ewuare II,  on the recent Oranmiyan festival celebration by the Benin Monarch.

In a press statement issued and signed by its President, Elder Curtis Eghosa Ugbo said that Gani Adams is too small to have commended the Benin Monarch as the Oba celebrated his Oranmiyan festival.

"Adams is too small to be appreciating our Reverend Royal Father, Omo N' Oba N' Edo, Uku Akpolokpolor, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin Kingdom. The Yoruba are children of the Benin Kingdom and he shouldn't be the one to tell us about the history and relationship between them. 

"Oranmiyan was a Benin Prince that founded Oyo and Ile-Ife, Gani Adams should kindly apply to come to the Oba of Benin's Palace for him to be taught the proper history of the Benins and Yorubas."

Elder Curtis Ugbo said that the Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) had to speedily come forward to put the records straight before Iba Adams succeed in confusing/deceiving the people.

It will be recalled that in the Tribune online publication of May 20, 2021 Aare Onakakanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Gani Adams, has commended the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II for celebrating the age-long Oranmiyan Festival, saying it was noteworthy that the Benin monarch truly identified with Yoruba history by bridging the gap between Yoruba and Benin Kingdom. 

HON. PETER AGUELE CELEBRATES WITH ENGR GIDEON IKHINE ON BIRTHDAY

By The9jaTrend

                    Engr. Gideon Ikhine

The immediate past Executive Chairman of Esan South-East Local Government Council, Hon. Peter Iziogie Aguele has felicitated with Engr. Gideon Ikhine as he celebrates his birthday today the 24th day of May 2021.

In a press statement issued and signed by his former council boss, Hon. Aguele through a Special Birthday Message elougised the outstanding qualities of the celebrant describing him as an astute politician of inestimable prowess, unassuming and a complete gentleman.

He extolled the political virtues of  the formal governorship hopeful  as a unique political juggernaut with rare sense of patriotism and charitable who is irrevocably committed to the development of Esan Nation and Edo State in general. 

                   Hon. Peter Aguele

  Former Chairman, Esan South-East LGC

Hon. Aguele in his remarks, "I congratulate you on your Birthday Anniversary celebrations sir,  wishing you God's divine strength with pure health and luck in all your endeavours. Happy Birthday to you Sir", the statement concluded.

Esan Party Leaders Pass Vote Of Implicit Confidence On Obaseki, Shaibu, Aziegbemi led State Executive Committee

By The9jaTrend

The leadership of Edo Central Senatorial District of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) has passed a Vote of Implicit Confidence on Mr. Governor Obaseki, Executive Governor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shaibu,  Deputy Governor of Edo State and Dr. Tony Aiziegbemi led Executive Committee of the party.

In a Resolutions reached at the end of the leaders meeting held at the Benin residence of Senator Elder Odion Ugbesia on Sunday 23rd May 2021, the leaders unequivocally and unanimously adopted, "That in the overall interest of our great party in EDO Central Senatorial District and the State, members were prevailed upon as a matter of urgency to exercise utmost restraint when commenting on party matters most especially in the social and conventional media to give peace a chance.

"The party Leaders noted that the bone of contention is how best to integrate  the new and old party members within the structure of the party from the wards to the State.

"The party Leaders were of the opinion that other avenues exist for the integration  of new PDP members other than outright dissolution of the Executive Committees of the party from the Wards to the State with its attendant consequences.

"Towards this end, the party Leaders unanimously recommended that a broad based Ad Hoc Committee of Seven to ten members be constituted by the State Working Committee  to immediately work out modalities for integration that will be acceptable to the contending Stakeholders."

Going further, the Resolutions added, "The said Ad Hoc Committee with very definitive terms of Reference should be mandated to liaise with both old and new members across the State and submit their recommendations to the Governor and the State Working Committee for implementation. 

"The Party Leaders were unanimous in their view that the suspension imposed on one of our Leaders Chief Tom Ikimi should be revisited by the Senatorial Executive with a view to lifting the suspension. Also the party Leaders directed the Senatorial executive to rescind the ban placed on joint meetings with the new PDP members

"Finally the Esan Party Leaders passed a vote of implicit confidence on our State Governor and his deputy as well the State Chairman Dr Tony Aziegbemi and the State Executive Committee of the party and urged them not to relent in their efforts to provide the dividends of democracy to the good people of EDO State

"Above Resolutions are predicated on the need to promote intra party harmony as a condition precedent for a conducive working relationship between the party and the executive branch," the Resolutions opined.

The meeting was attended by leadership of the senitorial district which includes  Elder Odion Ugbesia and his twin brother, Hon. Barr. Akhere Ugbesis, Chief Dr. Mike Onolemenmen, Hon. Barr. Sergius Ogun,  Chief Ulinfoh, Rt. Hon. Friday Itulah,  Engr. Gideon Ikhine, Hon. John Yakubu, Elder Sunny Abulimen, Hon. Ceasar Ehilenbodiaye, Hon. Louis Ibhadegbelu, Dr. israel Aguele, Hon. Ezehi Igbas, Hon. Andrew Ojiemekele, PDP Local Government Party Chairman in the Senatorial District, amongs others.

Stay Off Oba Of Benin Palace Land - BSM Warns Land Grabbers In Ogiso, Obazuwa Communities

By The9jaTrend

             Elder Curtis Eghosa Ugbo

           President, BSM Worldwide

Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) worldwide, acting on its belief of preserving Benin culture and tradition, was on Friday, May 21st, 2021, at Ogiso Street, Benin in Oredo Local Goverment and Obazuwa Town in Ovia North East Local Government of Edo State, to install signboards warning those who encroached on the Oba of Benin’s Palace land in the communities to quit or face dire consequences.

Addressing journalists in Ogiso Street,  President of the Movement, Elder Curtis Ugbo, who led the team said: “This is our second time coming here at the instant  of our reverend monarch, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II

“It came to our knowledge that the piece of land measuring 1000 by 1000 on Ogiso Street which belongs to the palace of the Oba of Benin has been encroached upon by land grabbers.

“We are calling on those who has trespassed on the Oba of Benin palace land to stay off as we are ever ready reclaim any land trespassed on by land grabbers, and we therefore advise anybody who encroached on Oba of Benin Land to report to the Oba of Benin’s Palace immediately before further action is taken against them.”

On why people refused to comply despite an earlier warning, Elder Ugbo said: “I am sure that the land grabbers, who sold the piece of land to them, must have emboldened them, to carry on with what they’re doing.

“Once more, we are using this medium to tell them that the next time we come here it will not be a child’s play.

“If you’re in doubt call the phone number that is displayed on the notice board to make enquiries from Mr. Frank Irabor, the Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council.”

While speaking in Obazuwa, Elder Ugbo warned the landgrabbers in that part of the state who hide under ethnic colouration to henceforth be careful of their actions as the long arm of the law will soon catch up with them.

Also, speaking Barrister Dennis Osaretin, a member of the legal team of the Benin monarch said: “This plot of land(on Ogiso Street) belongs to the Oba of Benin. All landgrabbers and their likes are by this notice reminded to come to the Palace of the Oba of Benin to verify their documentation failing which we will set in motion various legal remedies to be exploited to regain all the properties belonging to the Omo N’Oba in this community.”

Be Cautious Of Your Utterances On Stolen Benin Artefacts - BSM President Warns Lai

By The9jaTrend

Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) worldwide, a socio cultural group has warned the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, to be cautious of his utterances as it relates to stolen Benin artefacts just recovered from the German government.

In a press statement issued, signed and made available to newsmen, by the organisation's president, Elder Curtis Egjosa Ugbo, said that as far as the issue of the recovered Benin artefacts are concerned, Alhaji Lai Muhammed should be well educated that the art works belong to the Benin Kingdom which is under  the rulership of His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N' Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, Ova of Benin Kingdom.

"Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed should watch what he says about the issue of the recovered Benin artefacts. He has no authority other than to graciously hand them over to His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N' Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, who is the custodian of Benin customs, tradition and religion.

            Elder Curtis Egjosa Ugbo

                  President, BSM

"Those Artefacts are of spiritual significance to the great people of Benin Kingdom.

"Whatever is the Information and Culture Minister is trying to achieve by making empty promises and hobnobbing with his fellow politicians on the best way to handle the issue and who to hand the Artworks/Artefacts to for safe keeping.

"Alhaji Lai is not conversant with Benin Culture and Traditions, so his excuse can be accepted but should not be allowed to hold sway."

Going further, Elder Ugbo added, "Oba of Benin is the right person to hand over those artefacts to, moreover, he has a foundation, Oba Ewuare II Foundation which is best suited to handle the issue.

"We pray that the minister and whoever is goading him on what to do have a change of heart and do the right thing so that posterity can remember them for good."

Address The Systematic, Infrastructural Rots In Uniben - Eholor Urges Salami

By The9JaTrend

President, One Love Foundation and Democracy Observer General of Nigeria, Chief Patrick Osagie Eholor has urged the Vice Chancellor of University of Benin (UNIBEN), Prof. Lillian Salami to make concerted effort to address the systematic and infrastructural rot demarkerting the prestigious citadel of learning.

Addressing newsmen, Eholor lamenting  that successive administration in the institution paid lip service towards addressing the challenges confronting it and that things has even gone worse under the watch of Prof. Salami.

He said the issues of sex for marks, poor electricity and water supply, sorting of courses, inadequate lecture halls, unhygienic hostels and unnecessary interference with the leadership of the SUG are the issues that must be urgently addressed to return the lost glory of the institution.

This, he said, would solve some of the challenges facing the famous citadel of learning in West Africa and beyond.

“We are urging Prof. Salami, the Vice Chancellor of University of Benin (Uniben), to devote more funds in his disposal to address some of the challenges facing the only federal university in Edo State. It is only through proper utilisation of funds that we can have adequate human capital and infrastructural development.

“Uniben has suffered from maladministration in the past, and this must not be allowed to continue by the present leadership of Vice Chancellor, Prof. Lillian Salami.

“We urge the vice chancellor to ensure that Uniben under her Administration tackle sex for marks, poor electricity and water supply, sorting of courses, inadequate lecture halls, unhygienic hostels and unnecessary interference with the leadership of the SUG, making it so inefficient and toothless.

“Uniben is now faced with the shocking phenomenon of declining standards of physical infrastructures and the near-total collapse of basic facilities that ought to be functional in a tertiary institution, to thoughtless demand for fees of varying amounts proposed by the school authorities ahead of logic-a development that is financially squeezing the life out of the innocent students and their parents. 

"From congested lecture halls to inexplicable delay in allocation of hostels to the new students for a whole semester even when the hostel fees were paid before resumption clearly show that the leadership of that Institution lack focus.

Going further, Eholor added, "A major action that has caused concern for the students and brought dropping spirits among parents is the seeming neglect of the student’s hostels by the school authority to be overtaken by bushes, making it convivial for reptiles/rodents to struggle for spaces with students. And tragically unique is the revelation by the students that these hostels are left without portable water or electricity due to the school authority’s inability to neither power the school generator nor settle their indebtedness to the Electricity Distribution Company (DISCO) that services the region.

“These are not only verifiable facts but a reality for all to worry about - and the Vice-Chancellor to act upon. Regardless of what others may say, it will not be characterized as an exaggeration to state that the students of this great citadel of learning are knowledge-hungry; that they are innocently asking for quality and affordable education delivered in a conducive/habitable environment laced with portable water and stable electricity. 

"But as the present situation in the school reveals, one may be propelled to ask; what form of education should parents expect from their children receiving lectures in congested lecture halls and dwells in school hostels with the attributes earlier described? As a matter of fact, each passing day at the University of Benin brings more evidence that the school is facing serious administrative emergencies-that demand immediate actions to sharply reduce the financial pains suffered by both students/parents simply because they went to the University of Benin which as at my last check supposed to be a Federal Government-owned.

“The VC must be told that Uniben has produced important personalities in the country and shouldn’t be reduced to a glorified institution living in past glory. If you do nothing about this, it simply means our youths, and the nation by extension is faced with bleak future. Conversely, if you are able to correct the above challenges; it will be your most powerful accomplishment for earning new respect and emulation.” He said.

Achastele Communications Company Launches Mobile Lotto In Edo

By The9JaTrend

Achastele Communications Company Nigeria Limited launched its technologically advanced method of betting for the citizens of Edo State and Nigeria at large.

Achastele Communications, promoter of Mobilelotto assured that the electronic betting would make gaming convenient for its stalkers and create job opportunities for Nigeria’s teeming youth population.

Speaking at the launch in Benin City, Managing Director of the company, Paul Okojie, said the game is different from other lotto businesses in Nigeria due to its unique features of using mobile phones to win prizes from any part of Nigeria.

He said, “Edo State is the first we want to start from. This is about texting, there is an app currently being developed. You can also play with your mobile phone and will be charged by your network provider.”

Okojie, who said the game is computer-based and the winning numbers are automatically generated at 1.00am by an Automated System, added that they have met the requirements of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission and other agencies to operate.

"The games are classified into Nack Three, Four and Five. For nack three, you select three numbers from zero to 99, then Nack Four, you select Four numbers from zero to 99, while Nack Five, you select Five numbers from zero to 39.

“To play, use your phone to type Nack Three or Four or Five then input your three or four or five likely winning numbers and send to a short designated number ‘3123’. You will receive an acknowledgment or receipt of your game containing your reference number. The reference number will be used to identify the player.

“For the winning prizes, If you get two numbers for the Nack Three, we pay N5,000. For the Nack Four, if you get three numbers, we pay N15,000. If you get all five numbers for the Nack Five, we will pay N25,000 and will qualify you for the Mega Game which is N1million.

“For now, we are only with 9mobile and only subscribers can play the game now. We are hoping that we will have MTN, Airtel and Glo soon.

“We paste likely winning numbers for the week on our social handles such as @mobilelottoNG on Twitter, Facebook, among others. Players can click on the link http://www.mobilelotto.ng/ to play.

"Our company has met the requirements of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission and other agencies to operate, he opined.

Unlawful Detention: Whereabouts Of My Brother Unknown, Says Family, Petitions AIG of Police

By TheJaTrend

Mr. Lookman Hassan, through his Solicitor, M. O. Uwaila Esq, on has petitioned the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) over the unlawful detention of his brother, Mr. Chikogwu Isaac by the officers and men of Anti-Kidnapping Section of Delta State Criminal Investigation Department just as they expressed fear over the  whereabouts of their brother.

According to Barr. Uwaila, "Our clients, Mr. Chikogwu Isaac who is a businessman with good track records spanning over a decade, was whisked to Asaba, Delta State by officers of the Anti-Kidnapping Section and has been denied access by his family to see him.

In the petition titled, "Petition of Illegal Detention/Abuse of Official Power/ Attempt to Frame up Our Client by the Officers and Men of Anti-Kidnapping Section of Delta State CID, Asaba , A Call For Your Intervention", signed by him and made available to newsmen in Benin City.

"Our client is a successful l businessman by profession for over a decade with enviable track record but now facing serious threat to his life by above named office.

"My client informed us and honestly believed him that sometimes in March, 2021, his younger brother, named Chikogwu Isaac was in a party when he received a call that some policemen were in his land destroying his gate as his land was already fenced.

"Our client stated that immediately his brother precede to his land and met some policemen who later informed him that they were from Anti-Kidnapping Office who came with some boys whom the policemen alleged are kidnappers who bored a hole on his fence and gain entrance without his notice.

"Our client informed us that the policemen were breaking the padlock on the gate and he asked them to stop it so he can open it but before he knew what was happening, they bounced on him, beat him to state of stupor and throw him into their van and drove off to Anti-Kidnapping office, Asaba and detained him since March 2021 till date, without charging him or leasing him.

"Sir, it was disheartening to note that our client and his relations have been going to Asaba to either give him food or see the boy, all to no avail as the policemen refused them to see him in the cell", the Barr said.

The lawyer said the family is highly apprehensive about the whereabouts of their son and therefore appealed to the Assistant Inspector General of Police to step in and order the transfer of the case from Asaba as they suspect a foul play in his arrest and detention.

"Our client family is apprehensive as to the whereabouts of their son and our client family sent a lawyer to see the IPO to find out what was the issue that he was refused bail, he was driven away from their office and all effort made by the family for the police to charge him to court is not successful.

"Were are aware that, the alleged offence if any; is serious assault or at best obstructing a police officer in the execution of his duty which is bailable offence and we also know our right to file for a fundamental rights enforcement for failure on the part of the police to charge him to court if any offence is proved.

"In the circumstances therefore, we appeal to the AIG to urgently intervene by ensuring that this pathetic case is transferred out of this lawless office or officer to your esteemed office, where we believed that justice will be done as the police at Asaba have been compromised and culprits bring to book", he said.

Commenting further on the unlawful detention of Mr. Chikogwu, president, Talakawa's Parliament, Comrade Kola Edokpayi urged the AIG to look into the matter and ensure justice is done and be granted bail.

He added that the family of the detained Chikogwu has been having sleepless nights over the unlawful detention of their son.

Edokpayi however expressed confidence that the AIG would do the needful with the view of redeeming the image of the police force.

Save Us From Ijaw Invaders, Obazuwa Community Appeals to Obaseki, Oba Ewuare II

By The9jaTrend

                     His Royal Magesty

                       OBA EWUARE II

                  Oba of Benin Kingdom

People of Obazuwa Utugberu Community of Obazuwa Dukedom in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State has called on Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki and His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N' Edo, Uku Akpolokpolor, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin Kingdom to save them from the hands of Ijaw extraction and settlers in Ikoro Community who they said had displayed them from their ancestral and farm land.

The call was made during the Community Town Hall Meeting which took place at the Obazuwa Utugberu Community where Elders, Women and Youths gathered and appealed to the governor and Oba Ewuare II to come to their rescue as they are being attacked on daily basis by the Ijaw settlers.

According to them, "we are aware of the facts that they are settlers and strangers to our dukedom and our kingdom respectively, but we can no longer sleep in our houses as continuous attacks by these Ijaw strangers/settlers have become the order of the day.

"Our non response to their several cowardly attacks to our community doesn't make us weak or cowards because the strike of the gentle leopard is more deadly if pushed to the wall," they warned.

"The 1983 judgement by the Supreme Court which was facilitated by the Okay of Gelegele against these settlers in our land is also covering up to all the communities in our Dukedom.

"Unscrupulous Ijaw strangers and settlers are now selling our fertile farmlands to Land Grappers in our Dukedom without the approval of the Enogie, Odionwele and Elders of Obazuwa who are the representative of His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, Oba of Benin Oba Kingdom who hitherto is the custodian of all lands in Benin Kingdom.

They appealed to Oba Ewuare II, the Edo State government to look critically into this situations before it degenerates to unholy stage.

Speaking during the meeting, the Odionwele of Obazuwa Utugberu Community, Octogenarian, Roland Oyemuse, aka, Agidi, 98 years said, he has lived all his life in the community.

            Roland Oyemuse, aka, Agidi

       Odionwele of Obazuwa Utugberu

                        Community

"The Ijaws that are now taking our lands came to settle with us, we allowed them as brothers and sisters, but now they have turned against us selling our farmlands without our knowledge.

"Our greatest sorrow is that they even went ahead to sell our Royal Majesty land in the Community without our knowledge.

"We are appealing to our Royal Father, Oba Ewuare II, Governor Godwin Obaseki to come to our aid."

Adding his voice, Deputy Woman Leader in the Community, Madam Atatikolo Igbinogun appealed to Oba Ewuare II, the state governor to please save them from these Ijaw settlers who have driven them from their homes, adding that, they can no longer go to farm or market.

Also adding his voice was the Okaighele of the Community, Sunday Ohenhen who said,  "The Ijaw strangers/settlers use guns to drive us from our farm, they also sold the Royal Majesty land to one Mr. Abu Yesufu without the knowledge of our community people.

"I want to passionately appeal to our great Oba, Oba Ewuare II to rescue us from these Ijaw invaders."

Reacting to the development at Obazuwa Utugberu Community of Obazuwa Dukedom in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, President of the Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) Worldwide Elder Curtis Eghosa Ugbo said,  "Palace machineries have been put in place to retrieve all Oba of Benin Palace land that has been encroached into by land grabbers.

.            Elder Curtis Eghosa Ugbo

                           President

    Benin Solidarity Movement Worldwide

"I want to use this medium to inform the general public that our Royal Father, the Oba of Benin KINGDOM has mandated Mr. Frank Irabor and my team to ensure that land grabbers that has encroached on any Oba of Benin Palace land are brought to justice, and we advice residence in Benin Kingdom  to desist henceforth.

He advised those that have encroached into the Oba of Benin Palace land in Obazuwa Utugberu Community  of Obazuwa Dukedom in Ovia North-East Local government Area of Edo State to report to the Office of the Secretary to the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) with immediate effect, starting from Monday 17th May, 2021. 

"The Oba of Benin Palace are in the possession of records of all landed properties belonging to the Palace across the Kingdom", he emphasized.

Oba Ewuare II Calls For Judicial Autonomy

By The9JaTrend

Benin monarch, His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N' Edo, Uku Akpolokpolor, Oba Ewuare II has joined the leagues of those asking for financial autonomy for the judicial arm of government across the federation.

The Oba made the appeal when the outgoing Edo State Chief Judge, Honorable Justice Esther Amenaghawon Edigin paid him courtesy visit at his palace in Benin City, Edo state capital.

The Benin Monarch harped on the need that, for effective law and order to be ensured, equity, justice and fair play must be e shrined, it is absurd for another arm of government to be under another, as this practice, the monarch said is threatens to pervent justice.

Oba Ewuare II therefore join judicial workers union across the country and other well-meaning individuals to prevail on the federal and state governments to grant full independence of judicial in accordance with the Constitution of the country as this will enable discharge of their responsibility.

The Oba assured the outgoing chief judge of the palace continued support and prayers for her and her family while urging the retiring Chief Judge to support the in-coming chief judge to also succeed.

Earlier, while appreciating the Benin Monarch for the prayers rendered during her assumption of office, Hon. Justice Esther Edigin told the monarch that she will be disengaging from the Edo State Judicial Service on the 17th of May, 2021 when she would have attained the mandatory retirement age of 65 for Judges.

Edo Central PDP Passes Vote Of No Confidence On Ikimi

...Reaffirms the Leadership Quality of Dr.Tony Aiziegbemi

By The9jaTrend

                      Chief Tom Ikimi

Leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo Central Senatorial District has passed VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE on Chief Tom Ikimi and suspend him from further attending, performing in any capacity in Senatorial District or carry out any activity(ies) in whatsoever in the name and style of PDP, Edo Central Senatorial District forthwith.

The decision was arrived at during an emergency meeting that involved the expanded PDP Edo Central Senatorial  Executive Committee meeting held on the 13th  May, 2021.

In the Resolutions signed by Archbishop Anthony Okosun, State Vice Chairman/Chairman, Edo Central Senatorial district and  Barr  L. Ogedegbe, State Asst Secretary/Secretary, Edo Central Senatorial district also passed a VOTE of CONFIDENCE on the State Executive Committee led/chaired by Hon. Anthony Aziegbemi. 

                   Dr.Tony Aiziegbemi

              Edo State PDP Chairman

Members representing by the district at the National Assembly were not left out as Leaders of the party in the Senatorial district also passed a VOTE of CONFIDENCE on them for their outstanding performance and loyalty to the party.

                     Senator Clifford Ordia

              Edo Central Senatorial District

The Resolutions reads, "The Senatorial district backed/reaffirmed the positions/decisions of the Expanded State Working Committee meeting held on the 10th May, 2021.

                   Chief Joe Edionwele

            Member, Fed. House of Reps.

"The Senatorial district hereby passed a VOTE of NO CONFIDENCE on one of our purported leaders, Chief Tom Ikimi and suspend him (Ikimi) from further attending, performing in any capacity in Senatorial district or carry out any activity(ies) in whatsoever in the name and style of PDP, Edo Central Senatorial district forthwith."

                   Barr. Segius O. Ogun

             Member, Fed. House of Reps.

Going further, "The Senatorial District hereby passed a VOTE of CONFIDENCE on the State Executive Committee led/chaired by Hon. Anthony Aziegbemi.   

"The Senatorial District also passed a VOTE of CONFIDENCE on the National Assembly Members from the Senatorial district for their outstanding performance and loyalty to the party.          

 

"The Senatorial district rejects any Joint Executive Meeting with the new PDP members from APC at all levels in the Senatorial District.

"The LGA Chairmen from the Senatorial District should summons an emergency meeting with their respective Ward Chairmen, to ensure that the aforesaid resolutions/decisions is properly disseminated and strictly adhere to.  

"The Senatorial District is far bigger than an individual. The Senatorial district is resolute, committed, united, focus, a law-abiding district and will continue to work hard to achieve its objectives and aspirations". the esolution concluded.