Obaseki Inaugurates 15-man Committee To Screen Political Nominees

By The9jaTrend

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has inaugurated a 15-man Committee, charged with the responsibility of screening political nominees that will be appointed into his cabinet.

Obaseki, during the inauguration ceremony at the Government House, Benin City, urged the committee, headed by Prof. Dennis Agbonlahhor, to submit its report on or before 15th of July, 2021.

Members of the Committee include Gen. Airende (Rtd.); Abass Yakubu; Bayo Ogedengbe; Abubakar Mustapha; Hon. (Barr.) Akhere Ugbesia; Prof. Okogbo Felix and Engr. M.I. Ijeghede.

Others are, Osayamwanbor Agbons; Matthew Iduoriyekemwen; Dr. (Mrs.) Bob Osazee; Prof Maureen Isoken Ebomoyi; Prof. Ahmed Uwubamwen; Hillary Otsu and Pastor Osagiede Joseph.

According to him, “We have passed that stage where people just come into the government for the sake of it; you are coming for a purpose and must be equipped to deliver on that purpose.

“We have gone round the state and asked wards and local governments to submit nominations. We have collected names and received petitions from some people expressing how happy or unhappy they were; we have received all of these and passed them on to you.

"You have to first check that the information that they gave us is correct. Do they have the qualifications? You have to interact with them and advise us.  Tell us whether these people can help us deliver on our mandates.”

The governor continued: “When you make your recommendations, we then look at those your recommendations and select those that we need to select; we are running a very transparent selection process. I don't have one name; the people have gone through the process.

"You all have very high credibility; we have engaged you in various assignments in the past, so we are very deliberate in choosing you. We trust and believe that whatever you give to us would be as you see it.”

"So, we have a lot of trust and confidence that you will do a great job for us. People are anxious; we don't have time. We believe that in the next two to three weeks, you will come with what we can work with,” he added.

In his response, the Chairman of the Committee, Prof. Agbonlahor said, “We will try as much as possible to deliver on our mandate within the stipulated time.”

RETURN OF BENIN ARTIFACTS: Coalition Of Benin Youth Groups Cautions Edo Govt.

By The9jaTrend

The Coalition of Benin Youth Groups has called Mr. Godwin Obaseki led administration to trade with caution over the plan by Edo State government to hijack the return of the stolen Benin Artifacts by Europe/British Government.

In a press statement jointly issued and signed by Comrade Osaghae Collins, President, National Union of Edo South Youth (NUSEY), Elder Curtis Eghosa Ugbo, President, Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM), Worldwide, Chief Patriot Patrick Osagie Eholor, President One Love Foundation, Comrade Raymond Ogieriakhi, Benin/Human Right Activist and David Osa Osifo, Benin Cultural/Human Eight Activist said that the History of Invasion by the European Government in collaboration with few elements who betrayed the Kingdom based on what they felt, they stand to gain are still very fresh in their memories.

The Groups emphasized, "We wish to express our utmost desire to the general public and to whom it may concerned, particularly Edo State Government and the Federal Ministry of Culture and tourism, that the History of Invasion by the European Government in collaboration with few elements who betrayed the Kingdom based on what they felt, they stand to gain are still very fresh in our memories.

"To remind you, the 19th Century saga which started as a result of trade dispute between the Benin Kingdom and the British colony, which escalated as the European powers decided to invade the kingdom in 1897 and this unholy act was led by the then Consul-General in the region, James Philip. 

"By January, 12th there was a saga which took place without the Oba Ovonranmwen approval, however February 18, there was a total invasion of the Kingdom which brought about the capturing of the Oba of Benin Kingdom (Oba Ovonranmwen) and was sent to exile in Calabar.

"We the Benin Youth wish that no one remind us, of the genesis of the unholy act that lead to the invasion of the Benin Kingdom in the 19th Century, which was encouraged and facilitated by an unfaithful subject who claim to be loyal to the then Oba of Benin, Oba Ovoranmwen. (name withheld) to further state that the Benin Art works (artifacts) where stolen and catered away by the European forces, and the Benin Artifacts became an envy of many nations which includes Europe and America, some were sold out and some were kept in the British museums and that of German. However European and America museums played host to this stolen artifacts of the Benin people. Sadly, our Reverend Oba, Oba Ovonramwen died 1914 while in exile same year, gladly the son returned to Benin and was crowned Oba Eweka II."

Going further, the Groups added, "More importantly we wish to remind those behind the unholy act of wanting to divert the return of the Benin artifact from coming straight to where it was stolen from, which is the Oba of Benin Palace, reference to this was the event of (1938) in a gesture of great significance to the Edo People, the British returned pieces of Oba Ovonramwen’s corals regalia and some Artifacts and was dully returned to the Palace of the Oba and was received by Oba Akenzua II.

"In an act of celebration, Oba Akenzua II thus restoring some of the sacred force of his ancestors upon receiving the regalia which was led by the Earl of Plymouth and Sir John MacPherson, the then Governor General of Nigeria. The poisonous arrow has killed the elephant a reference to long awaited for; at this point, Nigeria already existed and this artifacts was not returned to Nigeria Government but was returned to the Palace were it was stolen from which is the Oba Palace (Benin Kingdom).

"Over the years Oba Erediauwa of blessed memories use his national contact and international contact, diplomatically using all other legal means to making sure the European invaders were intervened upon. 

"Gladly for the good people and true sons and daughters who had pray day and night to our God and ancestors Oba Eware II became an ambassador to many countries including European countries and our Royal father made good use of his relationship both locally and internationally to ensuring that we the (Benin people) will see a day like this where the European will returned back the stolen artifacts.

"Finally, they have agreed to return back what they took forcefully from where it was taken (Oba Palace), and some element in the name of Government are trying to make dollars and euro from this by trying to use the Federal Government through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in the name of building a National Museum, any structure that must be erected must get an approval and must be guided by the Royal home (Oba of Benin).

"We the Benin youth reject in totality any act of wanting to be smart by Edo State Government headed by Mr. Godwin Obaseki, to reintroduced the invasion of the Benin Kingdom for the second time, we are known for peace and wish to maintain peace, but wish that the good people of Benin Kingdom is not taking for granted, and not be forced on a war path, quickly to remind Edo State Government that Oba market as since be razed down by fire for over two and half years, the market is part of our history not even a block has been layed on the market, same goes with our own Urokpota Hall, which today Edo State Government has now turned to Motor Park, till date nothing was done, our history is going down in the face of Edo State Government, but because of the assumed Dollars and Euro as to be benefited along with the return of the artifact, they have suddenly become cultural and tourism friendly. Edo State Government is in a hurry to prove a point that is certainly pointless."

The Groups however advised Edo State government not to bring Benin palace  into politics as the Royal hone cannot be political and will never be political.

"However we wish the Government of Edo State do not bring politics into this as the Royal home cannot be political and will never be political.We are freeborn of the Benin Kingdom and will not allow any ugly history to repeat itself, as the Kingdom (Benin Kingdom) is known all over the World. The Palace and its environs are big enough to store any kind of artifacts that we will be repatriated from the Europe/British Government.

"We use this medium to call on all Edo son’s and daughters to speak out now, as the silence of our friends will be the strength of our enemies, for those who are behind some funny publications in wanting to act as if the criminal plans of some persons are justifiable, you are known and be sure your sons and daughters will be reminded on the role you have played in wanting to bring about a second invasion in the Benin Kingdom ."

The Grouos demand as follows:

• That the Royal Museums be built directly opposite the Oba of Benin Palace. 

• The major stakeholders in the affairs of Benin Kingdom have agreed and designed/proposed in place that will store the Benin artifacts.

• That the board set up by the Godwin Obaseki (EMOWAA) is an attempted to reloot and steal the artifact for the second time and we demand the dissolution with immediate effect.

• And that the Benin Traditional council (The Oba of Benin must oversee every activities as it concerns the return of the Artifacts). Obakha to Kpere Ise.

• We also demand for financial records/detail received by Edo State Government and the LRT in respect of the Benin bronze from across the World within two weeks.

• We also state that LRT which is called Legacy Restoration Trust, is a private company set up by some persons who are struggling to reloot Benin Artifacts by this they cannot be trusted.

• Oba market and Urokopta Hall must and should be rebuild by Edo State Government within 3 months as they are part of our heritage. 

"To be forewarned is to be forearmed," the statement opined.

If A Child Brought Up In This Environment Succeeds, Consider Yourself Lucky - Nurudeen Admonishes Parent

.... As Students  Of Zone 5 Central Mosque Islamiyya Graduates

By The9jaTrend

As Zone 5 Central Mosque Islamiyya School on Sunday the 28th day of June, 2021 organized the maiden edition of graduation ceremony of the school after the students successfully completed their recitation of glorious Qur'an, the guest lecturer of the event, Islamic Scholar, Alhaji Nurudeen Asunogie has urged patents to consider themselves lucky if child brought up in this environment succeed.

He urged parent to honour the teachers who has sacrificed their time to imbibe the knowledge on the children.

"Teachers who has sacrifice their time, let the parents celebrate them, let us honour knowledge because Allah says, He gives it to whoever He likes and whoever is be given is given in the abundance of good.

"We give thanks to Allah for a moment like this. I want to appreciate the parents of the students graduating today. I want to thank you for raising your children, crystallising  in their consciousness.  

"We are in a very dirty environment. If you are able to train up a child in this environment, you are a  very lucky person.

. 

"Today, we have a wrong orientation for our kids, but here we are celebrating what is of significant, which is, making the children to appreciate the Qur'an. The Qur'an says, should he not known the one who create and is the one who is aware and He knows virtually everything. 

"The glorious Qur'an we have guided our kids to, we pray that it bless them, we pray that the Qur'an guide them, but let the parents be appreciative that you are just starting now, this is just the starting point. We ought not to be here gathering  to say we are celebrating, there is absolutely nothing to celebrate.

"One of the tradition that was recited by the kid was that, the significant of knowledge is the knowledge that you work with.  Let these kids, the children who would work with the Qur'an that they had learnt.

"They may memorize the entire Qur'an, we have them so many, they had memorized the entire Qur'an. We are not suffering a destitution of those who has memorized the Qur'an. We have people who are so robust in terms of the knowledge of the Qur'an. Pathologically, I name it when it come to the area of fortified indeed."

Going further Alhaji  Asunogie opined. "So, it is not what you know that is the issue as much as what you do. Its explains why everywhere Allah thought about those who believe is inseparable twins, once he thought about believe he says the duo of good works. 

"In other words, once your belief does not represent a utilitarian value, that believe abi nitio is useless. So it does not matter how much we know, if you know so much and you are given trust and you are a betrayal of trust, that knowledge is useless.

"So, every direction we turn, we have people who know but the problem we have is that, we don't work with what we know, and that explain why we are in the situation we are today."

The event which took place at school premises behind Zone 5 Command of the Nigerian Police witnessed parents and invited guests stay glue to their seat to listen as their children recites the Qur'an one after another.

Speaking to newsmen after the event, Headmaster of Zone 5 Central Mosque Islamiyya School Sarahaisu Usman, thank Almighty Allah who in His Infinite Mercy made the maiden edition of the graduation ceremony successful.

He therefore advised parents not to hesitate in sending their children to Central Mosque Islamiyya as the adage says, "train up a child in a good way so that when he grow up, he will not depart from it."

"Our students today are able to complete the Qur'an recitation. It is a very remarkable day,  a joyous day and a day that we are going to make reference to in the future. It is a day that will make a very huge significance in the life of the entire students and their families as well.

He said, "The essence of this event is to try and raise kids in this particular generation. Try to educate then, that is the essence of the religion, not just the Qur'an but now they are telling us that they know how to recite the Qur'an, but knowing the Qur'an without actually understand and working with it, will not benefit then too much. The Qur'an do say just like the Bible, teach then young and when they grow up they will not depart from it.

"Educate this kids, teach then morals and imbibe it in then so that when they grow old, the society will learn so many things from them, the good tendency they learnt when they were young," he admonished. 

Highlights of the event were the recitation of Qur'an by the graduating students, presentation of certificate and decoration of the graduands as a symbol to marked their successful completion of their course.

Comply With Court Judgement - ERA/FoEN Advises ExxonMobil

By The9jaTrend

The  Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN), has advised the ExxonMobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited to urgently comply with the 14 days ultimatum given by the Federal High Court to pay N81.9 billion to the fishing and farming communities in Ibeno Local Government Area  of Akwa Ibom State as compensation for oil spills from the company’s facilities which occurred between 2000 and 2010.

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, had recently in a judgement gives ExxonMobil producing Nigeria Unlimited and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) 14 days ultimatum to pay the sum of N81.9 billion to the affected communities in Akwa Ibom state,

The affected fishing and farming communities in Akwa Ibom state, had dragged ExxonMobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited and the NNPC to court, demanding adequate compensation for several oil spills that destroyed their rivers, streams and other sources of livelihoods.

The Executive Director of ERA/FoEN, Godwin Uyi Ojo, Ph.D., described the judgement as a landmark judgement on the long walk to environmental justice and the protection of the environment and livelihoods.

Dr. Ojo said, “the judgement is also significant because payment of compensation to the victims of oil pollution will impact positively on the lives of the people of the Niger-Delta suffering under the heavy burden of oil spills pollution and destruction of their livelihoods”.

He added that such court judgement represents “a conflict arbitration resolution mechanism that will help to rekindle hope in the court system that justice may be delayed by oil companies with war chest for huge legal fees, but cannot be denied. There is no more hiding place for oil companies and they should take full responsibility to comply immediately, and to clean up and pay up compensation immediately”.

By this victory, the impacted people will likely no longer resort to self-help. The landmark judgement speak to the question of access to justice that is being upheld and given relevance. 

"With this victory it is hoped that many communities will approach the courts with thousands of oil spills and pollution cases pending some of which are yet to come before the courts or to get a date in court.

 "Judgements delivered by courts in the Netherlands involving fisher men from Goi, in Rivers state, Oruma in Bayelsa state and Ikot Ada Udo in Akwa Ibom state against Shell and the decision recently handed down in the case instituted by the Ogale community in Eleme Local government area of Rivers state against Shell in the courts of justice in London will galvanize local communities to redouble their effort to hold all polluters in the country accountable for their deleterious actions.”

A press release issued and signed from ERA/FoEN headquarters in Benin City, by the organization’s Director of Programmes, Barr. Mike Karikpo, applauded the Ibeno Communities for remaining steadfast in the pursuit of justice despite all odds.

ERA/FoEN praised the Nigerian judiciary for the rational and courageous decisions that they have been handing down recently in cases involving local communities and the multinational oil and gas companies who have often used their deep pockets to capture and truncate the judicial process.

ERA/FoEN therefore call on Mobil Producing Nigeria unlimited “to ensure the prompt payment of the compensation as directed by the court within 14 days and not to repeat the stance of Shell that has refused to pay the N17 billion compensation awarded by a Nigerian court to the Ejama-Ebubu community in Eleme local government area of Rivers state for oil spills that devastated their land in 2010.

“This spill occurred during the Nigerian civil war 1967-1970 and Shell has refused to undertake proper cleanup of the spill or pay adequate compensation. In November 2020 Shell lost an attempt to extricate itself from responsibility for the spill and the compensation cost awarded against it.

“The Nigerian supreme court rejected Shell’s bid to set aside the 2010 compensation award, with accruing interest the compensation claim now 

stands at N180 billion which is far less than the monumental environmental damage, biodiversity losses and destruction of livelihoods.

“This is even more relevant in this decade of Ecosystem Restoration declared by the United Nations. As oil fades as the energy source of choice across the world, it is imperative that all oil impacted ecosystems across the country should be cleaned and restored as much as possible to the state they were before the commencement of oil mining activities,” the statement advised.

University Don Recommend Ultrasonography Techniques In Medical Practice

...As author laments death of Radiologists in Nigeria

By The9jaTrend

University Don, Prof. Kenneth C. Eze, from the Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka Nnewi Campus, Anambra State, and Dr. Uzoamaka Ebubedike, from Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) have recommended ultrasonography techniques in the medical practice.

The duo made the statements during two books presentation tittled: "St. Bridget's X-Ray Radiological Cases Atlas with  Clinical  Direction & Aids to Medical Sonology Techniques: The Bridget's X-Ray Centre Experience  in Benin City.

According to Prof. Eze, the book reviewer said the book consist of Radiological atlas of original studies, with 631 pages, comprised of 12 sections, with the study of 500 cases, and 1,126 images of patients diagnosis using X-ray, ultrasound, baruim studies, magnetic resonance imaging, CT scan and position emission tomography.

Prof. Eze asserted that, the book comprised different aspects of Radiological diagnosis of diseases and complications of treatment in Nigeria.

He said: "This book is an original work that is recommended for Doctors, Radiologists, Medical Imaging Scientists and Health Practitioners in general."

According to Dr. Uzoamaka Ebubedike, MBBS, FMCR, who reviewed the second book, tittled: "Aids to Medical Sonology Techniques" - The St. Bridget's X-Ray Centre Experience, said the book has been well written using accurate basic background information on Sonolographic anatomy as well as techniques.

Dr. Ebubedike, a Consultant Radiologist with Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), Nnewi Campus said: "the new book meet the market requirement with proper and accurate information on ultrasonography techniques in medical practice.

"It is pitched at appropriate level with the target readership being Radiology resident doctors, Radiologists and Sonography in Nigeria and beyond.

"The aims is to describe some errors from poor operator demonstration and interpretation of observable sonographic signs hence in reducing incidence of wrong diagnosis," she added.

Chairman of the event, Chief Sam Igbe, the Iyase of Benin Kingdom, encourage the participants to buy the books, which he said will help to broaden the knowledge of their profession.

Stating the essence why the book was written, the led author of the books, Dr. Sam Enukeawu, a consultant Radiologist/Sonologist and staff of  St. Bridget's X-Ray Centre, Benin city, said Radiologists in Nigeria experience a lot of plights which make them perform below expectations.

Dr. Enukegwu's said, "the books on Radiology that we read are written by the white people. Most times, it was written in white men experience, cases and background. So, we needed to document the Nigeria cases, in a book format so that people can read and learn from it.

"More importantly is that, wee have the death of Radiology in Nigeria, the Radiologists are traveling to abroad because of the economic, the working environment and security in Nigeria.

"We need this modern knowledge to encourage Radiologists in Nigeria who wants to remain in Nigeria to work better. So they more images to guide them in their work. That is why we write these books."

Speaking on the Plights facing Radiologists in Nigeria, he said "the constraints are many, the environment is very hostile for their work, with don't have equipments to work in most government centres.

"we don't have the logistics support to work with in most centres. So Radiologists are handicapped in doing their job. If you are a Radiologist, and you don't have equipments to work with there is nothing you can do."

On the discrepancies in result of Rediology test, he stated,  "the type of equipment use is different, the level of skills and experience is differ too, that is why the books were written and to give them better guidance and education about what they need to do. If they are properly trained they will be better."

Murder Case Against Atseruleghe & 7 Others: Case Adjourns To 23 July

By The9jaTrend

Hearing  in the case of the State Versus  Iyasere of Warri,  Chief Johnson Atseruleghe and 7 Others in the alleged conspiracy, kidnapping and brutal murder of the Okaeghele of Kolokolo Community, in Ologbo Dukedom, Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria, Mr. Sunny Etchie, has been adjourned to 23rd of July 2021.

At today's hearing, the Prosecuting team, led by Mrs. Osasu Ewemade, proposed amendment to prosecute the 9th Defendant who was recently arrested after a year of running from Justice in one singular charge with the other Defendants before the Court was augured by both parties.

The State  Counsel, argued that it will be better to merge all the Defendants in one singular charge sheet  since the entire offence is the same. This she said will be tidier and cut  cost

"What we are asking Your Lordship is that  9th Defendant, Micah Missah Kaka  be added to the original case which is within the ambit of the law."

She argued, "it will be more expensive bringing witnesses every day and wasting of court process.

"Also, since it is the same charges, same offence, same person that they are accused of been murdered." she submitted.

She pleaded with the court to grant her application and discard the application  of the 8th Defense Counsel.

"We submit My Lord, that the prosecution at this stage is within  the ambit of the law  to log in charge with other Defendants, it will be quicker for court process, since the offence is the same."

She referred to Edo State Administration of Criminal Justice Law Section, 208.

Opposing the Application of the State Counsel, the 8th Defendant Counsel, Ighodalo Imandegbelo (SAN), argued that, there is an Application before the Court of Appeal. He told the court that there should be stay of proceeding pending the 8th Defendant pending Appeal.

The learned SAN augured  that it will be wasting of court proceedings bringing the 9th accussed person to join the other accused persons, and that Justice will not be fair.

According to him, plea has already be taken by the other accused persons, so bringing the 9th person will mean starting the whole proceeding fresh.

He referred to Sections 208,  217, 218 and 219, Edo State Administration of Criminal Justice Law.

He appealed to the court to throw away the application of the prosecution counsel as it lacks merit.

Haven listen to the argument of both parties, the Presiding  Judge, Hon. Justice Mary Ituseli, has to adjourn the case to 23rd of July 2021 for continous hearing.

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

All the  8 Accused persons including, The Iyatsere of Warri ,Chief Johnson Atseruleghe,  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 in Court .

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.

Don't Leave Nigeria For Any Country - Medical Expert Appeals To Radiologists

By The9jaTrend

                  Dr. Sam Enukegwu

Following the dearth of Radiologists in the nation's health sector, a Partner of St. Bridget's X-Ray (Radiodiagnostic) Centre Benin City, Edo State capital, Dr. Sam Enukegwu has advised Radiologists not to leave the Nigeria but to stay put and contribute meaningfully to the development of the health sector in the Country.

He made the call while presenting books titled "St. Bridget's X-Ray Radiological Cases Atlas with Clinical Direction and Aids to Medical Sinology Techniques, the St. Bridget's X-Ray Centre Experience, co-authored by other Radiologists in the establishment..

Dr. Enukegwu said, Radiological experts are leaving the country due to poor pay and other environmental factors and that such have hampered the Nigerian health sectors just as he said that the books presented would do Nigerians a whole lot of good.

"Over the years, I have observed that we have a lot of cases that we need to document.

"The books that we read, are written by white people, most times for white diseases. 

"So, we needed to document Nigerian cases in a book format so that people can read and learn from it. 

"And it becomes more important now because we have a dearth of radiologists in Nigeria. 

"They are all going abroad because of the economy, security challenges and we need this kind of thing to encourage younger radiologists to remain in the country so that they can work better with more images to guide them in their work", he said.

Going further, Dr. Enukegwu said the other problems confronting the Radiologists in the country is the availability of logistics and which the government at all levels must join hands to tackle headlong in order to get the health sector out of the woods.

"The environment is very hostile for their work. We are not talking about the pay, they don't have the equipment to work with in most government centres, they don't have the logistics support to work with in most centres. 

"So, they are handicap. And if you are a radiologist and you don't have equipment to work with, there is nothing you can do. You must have light and you must have equipment", he added.

                     Book Reviewers

While stating that it took him five years to write the 764 pages book, Dr. Enukegwu further advised other Nigerians to stay in the country and contribute to the health sector just as he is doing.

"For radiologists in Nigeria, to my knowledge, this is the first radiology textbook authored in Nigeria.

"One is tired about advise to the government. What I will just advised is that, individuals should take up the boldness and decide to practice in Nigeria like some of us are doing", he opined.

Stop Parading Yourself As Okaeghele - BSM Cautions Pastor Igbinosun

…as Iguoshodin N' Ebudin Community disown Igbinosun over land grabbing

By The9jaTrend

Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM),  Worldwide has expressed its disappointment on the activities of some unscrupulous elements who parades themselves as Enigie, Odionweres, Ohens and Okaegheles in Benin Kingdom.

While addressing newsmen in Benin City, President of the Movement Elder Curtis Eghosa Ugbo frowned at the activities of one self-acclaimed Pastor Sunny Osahon Igbinosun who the group said has constituted himself into a terrorist of some sort in Iguoshodin N' Ebudin, a community in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.

The BSM accused, "Pastor Sunny Osahon Igbinosun of impersonation by claiming that he has been appointed  the Okhaegele of the community by His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N' Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare  II N' Ogidigan, which is an aberration and abomination to the Benin Traditional Law and Custom."

The Group also alleged that,  "Pastor Sunny Osahon Igbinosun has also solely sold majority of the lands (measuring over 500 plots) in the Community within 6 months and for which he has not been able to give account of the land transactions to the Elders in Council of the Community, and decided to unleash terror on them".

"It is alleged that in his desperation to cover his tracks  resorted to turning loose on the People and Elders of the community to the extent that he has pursued those he considers as his enemies out of the Community.

He said, " Traditionally, when an Odionwere dies, it is after 3 years the burial is done and the 2nd in command is sworn-in as the New Odionwere who then decides who becomes the Okaeghele amongst the youths in the Community,

"Iguoshodin N' Budin can not be an exception and an Okaeghele is selected by the Odionwere to assist the Elders in the day to day running of the administrational affairs of the Community as instructed by the Odionwere of that Community and not the other way round. 

"With these, Pastor Sunny Osahon Igbinosun actions and inactions as stated above, and a few others who parades themselves as Enigies, Odionweres, Ohens and Okaegheles but operates contrary to the aspirations of the Benin Traditional Law and Customs in Benin Kingdom is a sure indication that His Royal Majesty Omo N' Oba N' Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, N' Ogidigan, needs to call them to order and should please henceforth make all of them swear to an Oath of Loyalty before they are allowed to function in their various capacities. 

 "We also call on the Law Enforcement Agencies to beam their searchlight on some unscrupulous individuals in the likes of Marxist Kola Edopkayi, Emmanuel Agbogun and others who operates under the guise of human rights activism in fueling crisis in the various Communities in Benin Kingdom.

"The question to ask is, are these self-acclaimed Human Rights Activists and their groups really recognised by way of legal registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)?

 "Because we have discovered in recent times that these self-acclaimed human rights activists, whose stock-in-trade is to act based on financial inducement, have shown a tendency to work at cross purposes with the Benin Traditional Council not minding that they claim to be of Benin extraction;

"Such instances are in Obaretin and Ologbo Communities in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area where the so-called human rights activists of Benin extraction have not seen anything wrong in supporting an ursurper against the interest of the Benin Kingdom. 

 "It would be of great importance if these marauding human rights activists are placed in check to avoid untoward outcome from their clandestine operation."  he advised.

Meanwhile, Iguoshodin N' Ebudin,  Community in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State. have disown one of their son, Pastor Sunny Osahon Igbinosun for allegedly forging papers of the Palace of Benin and selling the community and Oba land without the approval of the community elders and the Oba of Benin Kingdom.

The people  of the community in a Save Our Soul, SOS, message to the Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, to intervene in the unholy activities of Pastor Sunny Osahon Igbinosun.

The community made the call during  a press conference at Iguoshodin N' Ebudin Community.

The Community Leaders  which consists of the elders, women and  youths   appealed to the Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, to forgive them for they are not party to the atrocities of Pastor Sunny Osahon Igbinosun.

Speaking to journalists in the community, Pa Uwuigbe Omoragbon, (Ozukpogieva, 2nd-in-command) in the community said, he did not appoint Pastor Sunny Osahon as Okaeghele.

He said, Pastor Sunny Osahon drove  the elders away from the Community Hall, remove all the properties and locked up the place.

According to him, "he claimed that our Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, Oba of Benin  made him the Okaeghele of our community.

Also speaking, Mrs Esther Ojo Osaigbovo, called on His Royal Father, 

Oba Ewuare 1II to save them from the hand of Pastor Sunny Osahon, "we are tired of him, he is not from our community," she claimed.

GOSPEL: Good Work Open Door Of Fame - Agbonkhese Admonishes Members

By The9jaTrend

The General Overseer, Chapel of Deliverance International Ministry Incorporated, Apostle Mike Agbonkhase has admonished members to embrace God in any department they find themselves in the house of God as your good work open door of fame to such member.

Apostle Agbonkhese made this call during Sunday service of the Ministry which coincided with Fathers Day celebration at the Uteh headquarters, Off Upper Mission Extension, Ikpoba Hill, Benin City, Edo State capital.

While encouraging  every department in the church to take their duty as a call to served in the God vineyard, he admonished the ushers department to always exhibits good rapour and wisdom when approaching any brethren during service as this will encourage member to conduct themselves during church activities or service.

He made a reference of usher's role in the church. "Is there anything wrong with ushers bringing smile to his or her face  when approaching member. This l think will encourage such member to have the mind of conducting his or her self when given instruction by usher.

What is wrong if usher chooses to assist a nursing mother who at the same time carry her baby or that father with his bible while leading him to his seat. This l think will spoil the nursing mother or father to have the mind of listening to instruction given to him or her by the usher."

Going further, Apostle Agbonkhese said, "whatever any position holder introduced to the house of God to the glory of God should not let die because it is for the betterment of the church.

"Whatever you are going for the upliftment of the ministry should be done continuously. Don't wait until you are told before you do something good.  Make it as a point of duty that pastor will say, "because of me, pastors are being encouraged in the house of God."

He added that his  calling is not to stay put in one particular place rather than to continue to expand the ministry to the glory of God.

"My ministry is not to stay put in one particular place; my duty is to move round and established churches to the glory of God. 

"I am willing and  ready to propagate  the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ to every nooks and crannies of Nigeria and even to the world at large.

"If l may ask, who will fit into that position if l may decided to take the bold step of moving around the country to preach the word of God.

"Anything a member does to the glory of God brings joy and happiness to the priest and such priest will not hesitate to pray for the upliftment of such member" he opined.

INSECURITY: Gunmen Kidnapped Teacher At Emu

By The9jaTrend

Family of kidnapped Emu Teacher from Esan South-East local government area of Edo state has cried to law enforcement agencies to help rescue their father, Mr. Imhanlobe Kenneth who was abducted yesterday evening   between Okhuesan and Emu of the local government.

In a telephone with The9jaTrend, Mr.pp Jerry Obinyan a family member of the victim said Mr. Imhanlobe Kenneth was abducted yesterday evening between the hour of 6.30 -7.00pm by unknown gunmen about 10 in numbers. 

On whether the abductors has call, he said said, "the abductors has made contact demanding the sum of 20 Million Naira to effect the release of the class room teacher. 

All efforts made by The9jaTrend to ascertain from Edo State Police PRO whether the command is aware of the kidnapped teacher proved abortive as the line was engaged as at the time of filing in this report.

INSECURITY: Be Extra Vigilant Over Fulani Herdsmen Threat, Says President BSM

By The9JaTrend

Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) worldwide has called on residence of Edo and Delta States to be extra vigilant over the letter written by Fulani herdsmen threatening to unleash terror in Delta State and Governor Okowa particularly for hosting the meeting of 17 Southern Governors where the decision not to make land available for grazing in the Southern States was taken.

In a press statement issued and signed by the President of the Movement, Elder Curtis Eghosa Ugbo said what they have succeeded done by that threat letter is to keep us (Delta and Edo States) on red alert. Being neighbours anything that affects Delta State will surely be duplicated in Edo State. 

Elder Ugbo call on the law enforcement agencies to spread their dragnet so as to get to the root of how the letter came about and also advice the people of Delta State and Governor Okowa not to just throw the threat to the dustbin on the excuse that all is well and nothing of such can happen.

He advised that such threat should not be handled with kids gloves because they have shown on several occasions that the criminality embedded in their system has no limit.

"Events in some other parts of the country has shown that no threat is minor when the Fulani herdsmen/hoodlums are involved. Their issue should not be handled with kids gloves. They have shown on several occasions that the criminality embedded in their system has no limit.

"As a result of this, we advice all and sundry across the two states to goid their loins and see how we can humble these beasts in human flesh.

"They should be told that they don't have monopoly of violence and these weapons (arms, ammunition, bows, arrows, battle axes, charms etc) that they brandish every where they go are in large supplies to many other people elsewhere. We should not let down our flanks. The motto we should adapt is "be prepared."

"A word as they say is enough for the wise. Nothing should be left to chance. We should be extra vigilant. God forbid that our generation to come would blame us for been lackadaisical when the Fulani herdsmen illiterates came calling at our doorsteps.

"An injury to one is an injury to all; they will be resisted fully," he assured.

INSECURITY: National Butchers Call For Peaceful Co-existence

..... Appeal to Minister of Agriculture to Release Their Loans 

By The9jaTrend

The National Butcher Association of Nigeria on Monday in Abuja appealed to Nigeria Elites to always preach peace as the country is currently faced with security challenges. 

In a communique signed by the National President of the Association, Chief John Osamede Adun, the Aiyobahan of Benin Kingdom and Seiriki Katakpe of Abuja at the end of their NEC meeting said no country can achieve any meaningful development in a war situation.

The NEC called on President Mohammadu Buhari and all former leaders to urgently join forces together in resolving the security challenges rather than divisive approach that will not do the country any good.

The NEC which was attended by the Thirty Six States Chairmen and Secretaries and Federal Capital Territory promised their total support in ensuring peace returned to Nigeria in what ever role the federal government want them to play. 

The NEC also appealed to president Muhammadu Buhari to direct the Minister of Agriculture to release their budgetary Loans that is due to the Association which have been pending over the years.

The communique further added that the the loans will go a long way in helping them to build modern facilities across the country.