2023 Elections: Razaq Emerges Chairman Oredo APC Campaign Council

By The9JaTREND

Former member of the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Razaq Bello-Osagie has emerged as Chairman of Campaign Council of the Oredo All Progressive Congress (APC) in the forthcoming 2023 general election.

The Campaign Council, which was inaugurated today, 14^th October, 2022 in Benin City, has Barr. Jude Ogida as Secretary and 34 others as members.

The Campaign Council was inaugurated by the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Oredo Local Government Chapter, led by their Chairman Mr. Osamudiamen Osarenkhoe charged the campaign council with a promise to deliver all the candidates contesting on the platform of the party in the forthcoming general elections.

Hre said after due consultations, that due process was equally followed in selecting the campaign council members across the wards in the local government.

"The members of the campaign council committee are all qualified and competent to deliver on their mandate. We want all the candidates to work closely with the committee through their Campaign Director General and others in their campaign team in order achieve success come 2023".

In his acceptance speech,  Chairman of the Campaign Council, Hon. Razaq Bello-Osagie on behalf of the council thanked the party for deeming them fit and worthy to be appointed for the assignment.

He appealed to the members of the committee to cooperate with him  in order to deliver on their mandate and described the assignment as very important.

"I employed everyone to be committed, sincere, dedicated and disciplined in order to get the work done. February is around the corner. There is a lot of work to be done. We have the capacity to win the election".

He also said that with the party's presidential candidate, Asiwaju Admend Bola Tinubu that APC was at an advantage to win the coming election as he is tested and trusted.

"We are all critical stakeholders, and with our cooperation, victory is sure at the end of the day."

The party candidate for Ore do West into the State House of Assembly, Engr. Gabriel Iduseri, who spoke on behalf of other APC candidate.  He thanked the party for gathering a formidable team as campaign committee to work for the success of the election.

He promised that the candidates will cooperate with the committee and work for a successful election.

Former Chairman of Oredo local government council and Oredo House Representatives hopeful, Hon. Osaro Obazee in a chat with newsmen said he was fully prepared for the task ahead.

"We have been consulting and we are now set to commence the campaign proper now that the Campaign Council has been inaugurated."

Fraud: Double Certificates Emerges From Town Planning Office Of Ikpoba Okha LGC

…Victim seeks Govt, Police Command, Relevant Authorities' Invention

 

By The9JaTREND

In order to forestall an act or conduct likely to cause breach of peace in Egbiken Village in Ikpoba-Okha local government area of Edo State, Barr. Emmanuel Olayiwola Afolabi have on behalf of Mr. Osayande Ukpebor called on the Edo State government  through the Hon. Commissioner, Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Edo State Police Command and other relevant authorities’ intervention on an alleged fraud in Ikpoba Okha local government council as staff where found involved on double certificates for street naming.

In a letter addressed to the Chairman/Head of Service, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Council, Idogbo, Edo State, Barr. Afolabi stated that some staff of the local government council connived with one Mr. Esebanme to re-registered Ukpebor Osayande Street which was duly approved and registered on the 6^th of October, 2021 to Mr. Ukpebor Osayande.

Mr. Osayande Ukpebor name has appeared on Google Map of the local government area, an indication that he has perfected the processes of getting the street registered under his name and as such is the rightful owner of the  Ukpebor Osayande Street in Egbiken Village in the local government area.

Part of the letter reads, “URGENT NEED TO NOTIFY YOU OF THE UNLAWFUL ACTIVITIES OF ONE MR. ESEBANME WHO OBTAINED A DOUBLE CERTIFICATE OF STREET NAMING WITHOUT PASSING THE DUE PROCESS.

“NEED FOR YOU TO RERIEVE SUCH CERTIFICATE FROM HIM AS THE STREET HAS ALREADY BEEN NAME AND DUE CERTIFICATE GIVEN TO MR. UKPEBOR OSAYANDE.

“We act as Solicitors to Mr. Ukpebor Osayande of Egbiken Village in Ikpoba-Okha local government area of Edo State (hereinafter referred to as “Our Client” on whose behalf and clear instructions we forward this letter to your esteemed office.

“It is our brief that our client was the first person to build his house in the present Ukpebor Osayande Street. That our client started the process of getting approval for the street name since 26th of May, 2017 and it was fully perfected on the 6^th day of October, 2021. After which our client’s street sign post was placed at the beginning, middle and end of the street as authorized by the local government council.

“Our client informed us that he was shocked when he saw that the street sign post was removed on the 10^th day of November, 2021. That when our client inquired about of who must have done such a barbaric action; he discovered that one Mr. Christopher Esebanme who recently packed into his house in the street was the one who removed the sign post.

“Our client told us that he approached your office to lay a complain on the issue and found out that it was some of your staff (Ikpoba Okha LGC) that re-registered the street in the name of Mr. Esebanme and even gave him a certificate of street naming on a street that is already in existence with a certificate of street naming. A copy of the certificate of street naming is hereby attached as your perusal.

“It is on this note that we write to you sir, sincerely craving your indulgence to call Mr. Esebanme to order to also forestall and act or conduct likely to cause breach of peace in the said street. We also demand that the certificate of street naming given to Mr. Esebanme be withdrawn forthwith as it is illegally obtained.”

Investigations by The9JaTREND further revealed that Mr. Ukpebor Osayande wrote additional petition dated 29^th September, 2022 addressed to the Chairman/HOS of Ikpoba Okha local government council, Idogbo, Edo State notify the chairman/HOS on the unlawful act of Mrs. Jossy Duze who issued a double certificates of street naming to Mr. Esebanme without passing through due process.

According to Mr. Osayande, “I started the process of getting approval for the street in Egbiken Village since 26^th May, 2017 and it was fully perfected by the Ikpoba Okha local government council on the 6^th of October, 2021 with the sum of N70,000. The said N70,000 was itemized on the Certificate issued and given to me by the council staff.

“After my payment of N70,000, my sign post was issued to me bearing Ukpebor Osayande Street. The street which is 290.01m long was approved with site location describing the length of the street.  I placed at the beginning, middle and end of the street as authorized by the local government council. I was shocked when I saw that my street sign post was removed from my street, on the 10^th day of November, 2021.

“When I inquired to know who could have done such an act, I discovered that it was Mr. Esebanme who recently build and packed into his house in my street, with the assistance of the town planning department of Ikpoba Okha local government council, re-registered the street in the name of Mr. Esebanme Avenue and gave him a Certificate of street naming on the street that is already in existence called Ukpebor Osayande street, which has since been showing on the Google Map of Ikpoba Okha LGA and around the world.
 
“Since the decision of the elders of the community, Mr. Esebanme still keep on removing my sign post from the street, bringing the youth of Etete Community to fight me,” he alleged.

When contacted, the Edionwere of  Egbiken Community, Pa Napoleon Edogiawere collaborated Mr. Osayande’s claimed.

He said, “Mr. Osayande is the rightful person who first built and packed into his street  and as such embarked on the process of seeking approval from Ikpbo Okha local government council and was approved according to the documents he presented to me and my elders, and we also went as far to the council to verify the true copy of the documents, And our findings revealed that he has done and paid the necessary amount required to the council.

“Mr. Ukpebor Osayande is the rightful over of the street. He bought the land from me through my son. I told Mr. Esebanme to stop harassing him as he cannot lay claimed to the street. I am ready and my elders and ready too to defend this to the end. Mr. Esebanme should please allow peace reign in my community”, Pa Edogiawere said.

All efforts made by The9JaTREND to reach out to Mr. Esebanme to get his reaction proved abortive as his GSM phone number was switch off.

CONGRATULATIONS OUR ROYAL MAJESTY

On behalf of the Benin Solidarity (BSM) Movement, a Benin social cultural, non-governmental, non-profit organization, we rejoice and congratulate His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, the Great Oba of Benin Kingdom on the Conferment of the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) by His Excellency, Mohammadu Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Honour, in recognition of His Royal Majesty role in promoting unity and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria did not come to us as a surprise. This Honour, the Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) believe worth celebrating based on Your Roysl Majesty immense contribution to the social cultural heritage of our great Benin Kingdom and Nigeria at large.

On this note, on behalf of Members of the Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) both within and in the Diaspora, we rejoice with you our great Oba of Benin Kingdom and pray to God Almighty and our ancestor to continue to protect, preserve and guide you in order to continue to promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians bith within and in the Diaspora.

Once again, congratulations Our Great Oba Of Benin King.

Long Live Our Royal Majesty

Long Live Benin Kingdom,

Long Live Edo State!!!

Long Live Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Oba Ghato Kperee Ise!

Signed:

Ambassador Curtis Eghosa Ugbo

President, BSM    

Ms. Esohe Adun

Acting General-Secretary BSM

FOI: A Tool For Citizens Search For Transparency In Governance - Activist

By The9JaTREND

A human rights activists and Deputy Executive Director of Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice, (ANEEJ), Comrade Leo Atakpu has described the Freedom of Information Act (FOI) as a tool that helps citizens' search for transparency, accountability, good governance and democratic participation in Nigeria. 

Comrade Atakpu stated this while delivering a paper titled, "Frequently Asked Questions" at an interactive dialogue with members of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), media practitioners and state level officials on the Freedom of Information Act held in Benin City on 29 September, 2022.

The dialogue which is aimed at developing strategies to increase the level of proactive disclosure of information by government and action towards the domestication of the FOI Act in Edo State, was organised by Gatefield, an Abuja based CSO in collaboration with the African Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), under the Strengthening Civic Advocacy and Local Engagement (SCALE) project of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

Atakpu disclosed that the FOI Act gives every person a legally enforceable right of access to records, documents and information held by government, government institutions and agencies adding that Nigerians and foreigners legally resident in Nigeria enjoy this right as provided in the law.

According to the Deputy Executive Director of ANEEJ, "the FOI Act gives every person the right to apply for information and records held by government, government institutions and agencies as well as private bodies performing public functions, providing public services or utilizing public funds, subject to certain exceptions.

"Before now, some existing Laws and Regulations made it an offence for civil servants and public officials to give information to members of the public without specific authorization by senior government officials. The provisions of the FOI Act now override such Laws and Regulations and promote openness in Government. It makes no distinction between Nigerian citizens and non-citizens."

Representative of the Ministry of Youth and Gender Issues, Mr. Victor Asiriuwa, who is a Director in the ministry noted that the FOI Act seeks to bring information closer to the people adding that the disclosure of composition of drugs contained in the accompanying literature in drugs was as a result of such Laws in the western world. 

He pointed out that access to information puts nation states on the progressive lane.

"It is because of access to information that the Western World are moving forward. Individually they're moving forward, the society is moving forward; the state and nations are all moving forward", Asiriuwa said.

In his presentation, Dr. Anthony Ewere of the University of Benin, pointed out that all private companies executing government contracts are subject to the FOI Act as they're expending government money adding that individuals and CSOs can request the Bill of Quantities (BOQ) of engineering contracts from such contractors with a view to ascertaining the scope of work and whether or not such scope is covered by the contractor in the execution of the contract.

The dialogue was attended by civil society organisations, journalists and representatives of Edo State Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

 

BSM CONGRATULATES IGP SOLOMON EHIGIATOR ARASE (Rtd) ON CONFERMENT OF COMMANDER OF THE ORDER OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC (CFR)

On behalf of the Benin Solidarity (BSM) Movement, a Benin social cultural, non-governmental, non-profit organization, we heartily congratulate a proud distinguished son of the Benin Kingdom, you, former Inspector General of Police Force, Solomon Ehigiator Arase, on your conferment of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic, (CFR), by His Excellency, Mohammadu Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

 

This National Honour did not come to us as a surprise because during your time as the Inspector General of Police (IGP), we can attest to the fact that your immense contribution to the force knew known bound, hence the National Honour by Mr. President.

 

Specifically, the immense contributions that you have made in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), are outstanding and inimitable.  There is no doubt that the footprints of your accomplishments in enhancing best by given top priority to the welfare and professional excellence of office and men of the Force will continue to imprint the sands of time, and such achievements, we say a big congratulation to your our dear father, uncle, brother and a great son of the Benin Kingdom.

 

By pure impression of hardwork, dedication to duty and sincerity of purpose, you rose through the ranks to get to the peak of your chosen career as Inspector General of Police, lGP. This was inspite of the numerous challenges of the Nigerian security system.

 

Since your commendable retirement from office, you have further dedicated yourself to the selfless service of the Nigerian people, irrespective of tongue, tribe or religious beliefs, through your priceless acts of humanity.

 

We are optimistic that this singular recognition of your sacrifices for country and humanity by the Nigerian Government will limb you to continue to advance the noble ideals of a better society.

 

We thank Mr. President for choosing you as one of the recipients of the National Honour as this has added yet another feather to the numerous achievements.

 

We pray to God Almighty and our ancestor for more wisdom and understanding as you rededicate  your selfless service of the Nigerian people, irrespective of tongue, tribe or religious beliefs, through your priceless acts of humanity.

 

Congratulations Great Son Of The Benin Kingdom!

Oba Ghata Kpereee…. Ise

 

Signed:

Ambassador Curtis Eghosa Ugbo      
President, BSM    

Ms. Esohe Adun
Acting General-Secretary BSM

 

THE EAGLE SOARING WITHOUT LIMIT

Another history has been capped again in the Nigeria Union of Journalists, (NUJ), as our ever branding National President, Chief Christopher Isiguzo has been honoured with the national award as a "MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC," (MFR) by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mohammadu Buhari.

Your emergence as the NUJ President has been justified once again as the world continues to celebrate your incessant feat.

Sir, we are confident that,  with your wealth of experience in the field of humanitarian and Journalism,  your uncommon traits will continue to stand you out, even as it recently stood you out to emerge the President, Conference of African Journalists, (CAJ).

Our quintessential pathfinder, a resolute leader, uncommon achiever and a bridge builder, the sky will be a spring board for you always.

We the entire members of the Nigeria Union Of Journalists , Edo State Council  congratulate our president , Comrade Chris Isiguzo, MFR.

Signed

 Comrade Festus Alenkhe

 Chairman, NUJ Edo State Council

Benin Solidarity Movement Eulogies CP Abutu Yaro’s Achievements In Edo

By The9JaTREND

The Benin Solidarity Movement, (BSM), a non-governmental, apolitical and socio cultural group has eulogized the Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Abutu Yaro on his record of achievements since he resumed office in the state.

CP Abutu Yaro resumed office as Edo State Commissioner of Police in April, 2022 as the 43rd CP in the history of the command.

In a message signed by Ambassador Curtis Eghosa Ugbo and Ms. Esohe Adun, President and Acting General-Secretary respectively, the Movement said that since CP Abutu Yaro assumed office in the state, he has completely reduced the crime rate in the State to the lowest level.

According to the BSM statement, “Since CP Abutu Yaro resumption in Edo State as CP, he has not only changed the narrative of the criminal activities in the state he has sanitized the police force with zero tolerance for corrupt practices within the force. To accentuate his hatred for illegalities within his command he has set up a very strong committee people by distinguished members of the public to checkmate such illegalities.

“As we speak now CP Yaro has clamped down on criminals operating in the state. The new Sheriff has let criminal elements in the state to know that it is a no go area for them.

“Within his short space of time as the boss of the State Police Command, CP Yaro has created tactical units such as Command and Control Intelligence, Rapid Response Squad, CP Monitoring Team and Anti-Kidnapping Annexes within Edo North, Edo Central and Edo South. He also changed posting of DPO’s to more active and effective ones. And he raises serious war against corrupt police officers.”

Going further, the group said, “Kidnapping activities is no longer a thing of business anymore for kidnappers as CP Abutu Yaro doesn’t believe anything like negotiating with kidnappers rather he takes the battle to them. It is in CP Abutu Yaro’s time that people know that police can ambush kidnappers, neutralize them and recover their operational arms. We the people of Edo State should join the police in the war against crime in Edo State.

“Now, in Edo, the residents live a life of peace as the hydra headed issue of crime and criminality has been brought to the lowest minimum courtesy of CP Abutu Yaro’s efficiency.

“So, to shower CP Yaro with accolades is not out of place as it is often said he who does exceptional things deserves praise and commendation.

 “We can go on and on reeling the laudable achievements of CP Yaro Abutu in his few months in Edo State. 

 “We also want to encourage you to continue the good work you are known for and pray to our Almighty God to give you the courage to continue with the spirit,” the group said.

2023 Elections: Former Chairman Calls For Unity Of Purpose

By The9JaTREND

As the 2023 general elections draw closer, the former Chairman of Etsako Central local government, Hon. Emmanuel Momoh have called on his people cultivate the habit of unity among themselves before, during and after the elections.

Hon. Momoh made the call while felicitating with the entire people of Ivhiukasa quarters, Units 7 and 8 in Ward 2 , Etsako Central local government area.

The former chairman reassured the people that he has never forgetting them adding that he would soon call on them for further happenings in the political cycle and way to go.

He however advised them to see themselves as brothers and sisters indivisible no matter their political differences.

Speaking at the occasion, some of the elders and the chairman of the Ivhiukasa Quarter,  Mr. Davidson Otono commended the former chairman for calling on the entire people for round table talk and for felicitating with his people.

He said this would go a long way of bringing the entire people together in one roof.

According to him, "I remember when you were the chairman of the local government how you carried everyone along in the scheme of things".

Mr. Otono specifically mentioned some of the people oriented policing and projects the former chairman executed within his tenure of office to include comprehensive health care center, building of 3 bedroom for resident doctor, extension of staff building to accommodate more offices and changing of wooden poles to concrete poles which till today it has saved the entire community from the regular falling of the wooden poles in the past.

He said as a political leader in the community, the entire people are always waiting and looking up to him for directions.

Also speaking, the Ward 2 APC Chairman, Hon. Matthew Aitsebaomo, appreciated Hon. Momoh for his initiative of bringing the entire Unit 7 and 8 together to discuss the political way forward of the party.

He said Hon. Momoh is not only a political leader in the ward but the entire Etsako Central local government area with vast political experience.

Include Louis Ulamen Into Land Grabbing List - Edo IPAC Chairman Appeals To Gov Obaseki

By The9JaTREND

The Okaeghele of Okhumwun Community in Ovia North-East of Edo State,  Mr. Louis Ulamen has been described and alleged as one of the worst land grabber in  Nigeria, accused of grabbing half of Uhogua Iguoshodi and neighbouring communities land in the State.

The chairman of the Edo state chapter of the Inter-Party Advisory Council of Nigeria (IPAC) Hon. Amb. Joseph Omorogbe Osa, who is also the current Edo State Chairman of ACCORD party stated this while commending the Governor for a job well done on land grabbers in the state, wonder why the said Mr. Ulamen's name was not included in the list released by the state government. 

Amb. Joseph Omorogbe who insisted that the Governor and his team should include the Okhaghele of Ukhumwun Community, Mr. Louis Ulamen on the list to visit the Commissioner of Police Command for questioning, lament over the multiple lands the Okhaghele has grabbed from unsuspecting buyers at Irhirhi, Obazagbon-Ogheghe  communities respectively.

Amb. Omorogbe who further commended Gov. Obaseki's war on land grabbers charged him not to relent on the fight as it is long over due .

According to him, the Governor should prosecute any  land grabbers found culpable in the state irrespective of his or her personality.

 

"There is no more hiding place for land grabbers in the state, any person found culpable should be prosecuted, as Governor Obaseki's administration has shown, he is not ready to tolerate impunity and any iota of anarchy."

The IPAC chairman also stated that names of some land grabbers ring-leaders in the affected communities are missing on the already released list.

He commended Governor Obaseki, for recovering the 1,229 hectares of land that was reclaimed by the Edo state government, along Irhirhi-Obazagbon-Ogheghe Road axis.

It would be recall that we have had the lingering issue of illegal land sales and land grabbing in the State and we did inform you that the government is taking action.

“We now have a detachment of the special forces that will work closely with the State government to arrest the incidence of illegal land sales and land grabbing over the next few months.”

Omorogbe said the Governor has advised those who collected land illegally, especially government’s land like schools, to better move out because with this special force, such lands would be recovered.

Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde LP Calls For Reinstatement Of Murphy Imasuen As Its Candidate

By The9JaTREND

The leadership of the Labour Party (LP) in Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency has called on the National authority and the State Executive of the party to urgently do the needful and reinstate Murphy Imasuen as the rightly candidate representing the federal constituency in the interests of the good will of the party.

It would be recalled that Murphy Imasuen was unanimously elected during the substitution primaries of Labour Party in Abudu on the 13th of July, 2022 to run for Orihionmwon/Uhunmwode federal constituency in the forthcoming 2023 National Assembly election.

In the seven pages letter addressed to Edo State Chairman, Comrade K.S.E. and copied Barr. Julius Abure, National Chairman of the party, signed by Austin Oronsaye, Chairman LP Uhunmwonde, Comrade Engr. Oriakhi Osaigbovo, Chairman, LP Orhionmwon, C. O. Ebuehi, Esq., the Committee Secretary and 24 others, the leaders said failure to reinstate Murphy Imasuen as the party candidate will amount to unlawful imposition and subversion of the collective will of the people of the constituency, which will be fully resisted.

Part of the letters reads, “RE: THE MATTER INVOLVING HON. MURPHY P. IMASUEN AND HON. ELIZABETH U. ATIVIE; BOTH OF UHUNMWONDE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA IN ORHIONMWON/UHUNMWONDE FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY.

“The above subject matter refers.

“Sometime around the 29th day of September, 2022, a matter involving one Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie and Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen was reported and referred to Executive Council of Labour Party, Edo State for amicable resolution between all concerned parties which however ended in deadlock and was subsequently referred to the Executive Council of Labour Party, Orionmwon/Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency with a view to broker lasting peace between the contending parties and make recommendations accordingly.

“The sole question that needed to be resolved between the parties, who are before the Executive Council of Labour Party, Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency at the meeting held on the 1st of October, 2022 is, who is the candidate of Labour Party in Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Constituency in the up-coming House of Representative Election come 2023.

“In resolving the issue between both parties who appeared personally before the Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency Executive Council Committee, three (3) questions came up for determination and they are: (1)  Whether Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen and Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie were legitimate Labour Party aspirants for the just concluded substitution primaries on July 13th  2022 as directed by the National authority of the party. (2) Whether Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen and Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie participated in the just concluded substitution primary for the House of Representative in Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency. (3) Whether Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen and Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie were members of Labour Party by virtue of Article 10 (1) and (2) of Labour Party Constitution before the substitution primaries.”

Going further, the letter added, “After due consultations with both parties Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen and Elizabeth U. Ativie by way of eliciting oral testimony from both of them much deliberations made on the issue which also x-ray the position of Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of Labour Party and the Labour Party, Orhionmwon Local Government Area. The Chairmen and some other Executive members of Labour Party that were present at the meeting also actively participated in asking and answering questions pertaining the issue. Principally, Mr. Ehiwe Ikuoyemwen, the place holder who was to be substituted orally laid the foundation on the issue.

“On Issue (1): In determining this issue, both Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen and Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie were called to give account of the process they went through.

“On account of Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen, he obtained the relevant forms having been led by his Labour Party Ward Executive Council to the Labour Party Local Government Area Executive Council, where he fulfilled all the relevant conditions required of him by the Labour Party Constitution which was brought to his knowledge by the Local Government Area Executive Council of Labour Party who led him to the State Executive Council for the acquisition of the relevant materials for the substitution primaries.

“On account of Hon. Blizabeth U. Ativie, she obtained the relevant forms from the National Office of Labour Party, Abuja; where she fulfilled all the conditions enumerated/highlighted for her by the National Executive Council of Labour Party, which is a condition viewed to be antithetical to the procedure obtainable in the Constitution of Labour Party by the general house. As such, the house unanimously considered this procedure abnormal.

“On Issue (2): In determining this issue, both parties were called to give an account of their involvement or otherwise with respect to the party substitution primaries held at the Labour Party Secretariat, Abudu, the headquarters of Federal Constituency held on 13th July, 2022 as directed by the national authority through the State Labour Party office.

“On account of Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen, he (Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen) partiticated in the exercise which was conducted at Abudu the headquarters of Federal Constituency on the 13” day of July, 2022 govern Government Labour Party Chairman and Com. Oriakhi Osaigbovo, Orhionmwon Local Government Labour Party Chairman respectively who were directed to conduct the substitution primaries by the relevant party authorities.

“While on account of Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie, she (Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie) affirmed that though informed of the time, venue and date of the exercise, but she did not participate in the primaries held on the 13th day of July, 2022 as directed by the national authority of the party. This was also affirmed and corroborated by the local government Chairman, Austin Oronsaye, Uhunmwonde Local Government Labour Party Chairman and Com. Oriakhi Osaigbovo, Orhionmwon Local Government Labour Party Chairman respectively.

“This issue having been carefully considered was resolved in favour of Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen for having participated in the party substitution primaries held at Abudu the headquarters of Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency on the 13th day of July, 2022 as directed by the national authority of the party transmitted through the state to the local government area.

“On issue (3): In determining this Issue, the relevant questions were inter alia: (i) How did they become members of Labour Party? (ii) If they are members of Labour Party, at what point or time did they become members?

“On the above questions, Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen narrated how he identified himself with the Labour Party at the unit level, the ward level where he regularized his membership card and the state level. Adding that his name is duly registered in the Ward register of Labour Party months the substitution primaries. This was affirmed by the ward Labour Party Chairman and the Local Government Labour Party Chairman both of Uhunmwonde Local Government Area.

“On account of Hon. Elizabeth U, Ativie, It was gathered that Hon. EIizabeth U. Ativie formalized her exit from All Progressives Congress (APC) on 6th September, 2022 and is yet to formalize her entrance into any political party as proved by her press release on the 6th  of September, 2022, published in some print media e.g. Vanguard page 7. This was corroborated by delegates from her ward, Irue ward, who affirmed that she (Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie) has not regularized her membership with the ward and that her name is not in the ward register as at 1st October, 2022 and so not recognized as a Member of Labour Party in the ward. This was affirmed by the Chairman of Labour Party, Uhunmwonde Local Government Area. Though she (Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie) alleged that she obtained a membership card from the state chairman of Labour Party and affirmed that she was yet to formalize her membership with the unit and the ward.

“Having carefully considered the testimonies of Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen on one part, Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie and other delegates from her ward on the other part, it was unanimously resolved that Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie has not formalized her entrance into Labour Party and thus not a member of Labour 10 (1) and (2) of Labour Party Constitution is a qualified member of Labour Party and therefore he (Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen) is entitled to all rights and privileges of the party.

“Consequently, it was unanimously resolved that Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie cannot become a candidate in a party where she has not fully been a member and mandatory procedure as prescribed by the Labour Party constitution.

“The inclusion of Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie’s name on INEC list of candidate published some time ago was then considered as a misnomer and a mistake which should be corrected. The house then unanimously appeal to Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie  to step down to enable the rightful candidate’s name to be reinstated as the candidate representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency.

“The house also unanimously called on the national authority of the party and the state executive of the party to urgently do the needful and reinstate Hon. Murphy Imasuen as the rightly candidate representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency in the interest of the goodwill of the party as failure to do so will amount to unlawful imposition and subversion of the collective will of the people of the constituency, which will be fully resisted.

“Moreso, when it has been confirmed that Hon. Elizabeth U, Ativie participated actively in All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representative primaries in May, 2022 and therefore barred by the Electoral Act of 2022 from contesting in another party's primaries, Thus, any attempt to allow her continue, may lead to unwanted litigation by opposition parties that can ruin the efforts and success of Labour Party. Pretense and/or recalcitrant by Hon. Elizsheth U. Ativie to repudiate appeal and neglect this fact is a solid pointer to one fact that she is being sponsored to destabilize Labour Party.

“Finally, the constituency wish to strongly reiterate that it has been resolved that Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen is the rightful candidate elected by the constituency and not Hon. Elizabeth U. Ativie.

“It is our final cry therefrom that Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen should be urgently reinstated. We therefore call on concerned Labour Party authorities and Support groups to prevail on Barr. Julius Abure, the National Labour Party Chairman to reinstate Hon. Murphy P. Imasuen as our candidate for the House of Representative, Orhionmwon/Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency with immediate effect.”

Group Calls For Resignation of LP National, State Chairmen Over Alleged Imposition of Candidate In Edo

By The9JaTREND

A Benin based Socio Cultural Group under the aegis of "Benin Solidarity Movement" (BSM), has accused the leadership of Labour Party (LP) over alleged imposition of Hon. Elizabeth Ativie, as the party candidate for the forthcoming 2023 National Assembly Election for Orhionmwon/ Uhunmwonde Constituency in Edo.

The group in a protest with different Inscriptions,  "We Hate Injustice In Labour Party",  "Ativie Can Not Intimate Us In Labour Party", "Ativie Let The Will of the People Prevail In Orhionmwon/Orhionmwon federal constituency",  "Murphy Imasuen Is Our Candidate For Orhionmwob/ Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency," match through various streets in Benin metropolis to the Labour Party secretariat at Ogbelaka street, Benin City, Edo state capital to register their displeasure.

While addressing Secretary of the Party, Ms Esohe Adun, Acting Secretsry of BSM who spoke on behslf of the group said the alleged imposition of the former lawmaker  by the party leadership was against the wish of the people of Orhionmwon/ Uhunmwonde Federal Constituency.

The group vowed to resist any attempt to substitute Hon. Murphy Imasuen who they claimed was duly given the ticket to run for Orihionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency for any candidate.

“We hereby make bold to say that, we do not recognize Hon. Ativie, as a member of the Labour Party in Edo State Chapter talk more of being the House of Representatives candidate for Orihionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal constituency", they alleged. 

Part of the statement jointly signed by its President, Comrade Curtis Ugbo and Acting Secretary,  Esohe Adun and made available to newsmen accused the Party National and State Chairmen of favouring the former Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly Aitivie over Hon. Murphy Imasuen, who BSM alleged won the substitution primaries held July in Abudu, Edo State.

Before receiving the petition on behalf of the state chairman of the party, Comrade Fredrick Akhere said, “As far as Labour Party is concern, we don’t believe in money and I want to disabuse that allegation that we were induced with money. 

"Labour party believes in integrity. And I want to assure you that since the state chairman is not around, I will ensure your message is related to him and necessary step will be taken.

“This issue is an internal crisis and I want to say that the issue will be resolved internally,” he said.

Subvert of Justice: BSM Raises Alarm Against Enoyin Campaign, Loveworld Police Station DPO

…We will resist attempts to sweep under the carpet the nefarious activities of Enoyin Campaign and his cohorts

…Congratulates Edo CP on his elevation as AIG

By The9JaTREND

The Benin Solidarity Movement, (BSM), a non-governmental, apolitical and socio cultural group has raised alarm over purported plans by  Enoyin Campaign, the outlawed Okaeghele of Evbuomama Community in Ikpoba Okha local government area of Edo State with the assistance of the Deputy Police Office (DPO) of Loveworld Police Station to transfer an alleged kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism and murder case against him which is already receiving investigation by the Edo State Police Command to the offices of the Inspector General of Police  (IGP) and the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Zone 5, an action the Movement said is against humanity and the culprits should be made to face the law.

It would be recalled that the outlawed Okaeghele of Evbuomama Community in Ikpoba Okha local government area, Enoyin Campaign’s name was recently published in the lists of land grabbing in the Vanguard dated September 19, 2022 by Edo State Government.

In a press statement made available to newsmen, issued and signed by the President-General, Ambassador Curtis Eghosa Ugbo and Secretary, Esohe Adun, the Movement condemned the action of the DPO of Loveworld Police Station by trying to truncate the efforts made so far in prosecuting the alleged kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism and murder case by Enoyin Campaign and his cohorts  who are currently terrorising and killing innocent citizens of Evbuomama community.

According to the group, “Previous petitions against Enoyin Campaign and his cohorts to various police stations including AIG and IGP, yielded nothing and why wasn’t he arrested then; why are they now trying to truncate the will of justice. In as much the investigation being carried out by Edo Police Command is yielding result, the onious is now on the IGP to allow the state command to prosecute the evil acts by Enoyin Campaign and his cohorts.

“Our believe is that the duties of a Deputy Police Officer (DPO) posted to any station is to protect the lives and properties of the people who are under his jurisdiction, but reverse is the case of Loveworld Police Station (DPO) who is living free accommodation in one of the residential homes of the criminal element, a properties which he acquired from his proceeds with those who Edo State government has publicly published their names.

                 Enoyin Campaign

                     The Suspect

 “The suspect and his cohorts are behind the killings, armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism and murder of innocent people, an action which is against humanity and he should be allowed to face the law. 

"We will resist any move by Enoyin Campaign with the assistance of Loveworld Police Station DPO to tranafer the matter to AIG or IGP offices so as to truncate justice. The truth must be allowed to prevail,” the group said.

Going further, the BSM alleged, “Enoyin Campaign and his cohorts bought some dangerous weapons to perpetuate their evil acts and as such, those already handling the investigation should be allowed to recover the weapons which include 10 Pump Action and 3 Ak47.

“We, the Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) will never allowed injustice in the Benin Kingdom. We hereby called on the  offices of the Inspector General of Police  (IGP) and the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Zone 5 to as a matter of credibility and transparency being exhibited by the Edo State Police Command is commendable and should be allowed to continue in the same spirit of investigating the criminals activities of Eniyin Campaign and his cohorts.

“And also, the Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) is calling on the Edo State Government to ensure that Enoyin Campaign and his cohorts does not go freely over their nefarious activities at Evbuomama Community in Ikpoba Okha local government area of the State."

In a related development, the Benin Solidarity Movement (BSM) has congratulated CP Abutu Yaro on his recent elevation to the rank of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG).  

“Your elevation is a well deserved one in view of the achievements recorded since you resumed office as Edo State CP, an action already given credibility to the State Police Command  by curbing the activities of hoodlums, armed robbery and cultism in the State.

“To this great achiements, we join forces with those who mean well for Edo Citizens say kudos to AIG Abutu Yaro. 

We want to urge you to continue with the spirit of curbing the activities of hoodlums in the state and pray to Almighty God to give you the strength to end well as Edo CP so that your name will be written in the history of the State as among the best CP Edo state ever had," the group said.

Obaseki Vows To Prosecute Land Grabbers

....As Police arrests 22 Suspects

By The9JaTREND

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said there is no more hiding place for land grabbers in the state, noting that any person found culpable will be prosecuted, as his administration will not tolerate impunity and a reign of anarchy.

The governor disclosed this during an inspection tour of the 1229 hectares of land reclaimed by the state government along Irhirhi-Obazagbon-Ogheghe Road.

Governor Obaseki who was accompanied on the inspection tour by the Secretary to State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq.; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Osaigbovo Iyoha; Commissioner for Physical Planning, Housing, Urban and Regional Development, Isoken Omo and the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Abutu Yaro.

Obaseki said his administration will recover every piece of land grabbed or illegally acquired from their rightful owners, noting, “If we allow such a situation to continue, there will be anarchy in Edo State. You can’t stay in your house and somebody comes and asks you to walk out because somebody else has sold your land because they have their private army.

“As a state, we can't sit down and watch, allowing this level of impunity and anarchy. My administration will pursue every land grabber and ensure they return every land that is not their own to the rightful owners. Thank God I still have more than 24 months in office. I will rewrite the wrong by land grabbers.”

“This area was acquired in 2017 and the whole area was a forest. We have evidence of a GIS map to show. These people know the government has acquired this land but in their regular manner, they just decided to ignore government ownership interest in the state. Behind here is a forest reserve area and the trees have been cut down, with the lands sold,” he added.

Obaseki said about 22 persons are in custody for alleged land grabbing, adding that his administration is gathering all the evidence of illegal sales of land and would ensure those culpable are prosecuted and made to refund back the money to those they took money from.

He noted, “Moving forward with the new laws, nobody should put a block and commence building without finding out who the owner of that land is. Every community, individual and property owner should come and register their interest so that before anyone builds, we would see the evidence of the ownership of the land.

“Today, we have declared some of the land grabbers wanted and about 22 persons are in our custody. We are gathering all the evidence of illegal sales of land as we would prosecute all of them and ensure they refund back the money to those they took the money from. They will surely pay back.”

On the plans to develop a new town in the area, the governor said, “In the next few weeks, we will be completing the enumeration, soil test, topographical services and begin to parcel the land, put in the infrastructure and do proper allocation as we prepare to develop a new town.

“The development of this new town will be open and transparent for all to key in as there will be public enlightenment about the new town, allowing young people to have access to the land in this area."

Edo Govt Continues Ongoing Reclamation Exercise On Irhirhi-Obazagbon-Ogheghe Road

...sets up magistrate court, others

By The9JaTREND

The Edo State Government has continued the reclamation exercise on the Irhirhi-Obazagbon-Ogheghe axis of Benin metropolis, noting that essential services have been set up on the 1229 hectare portion of land which has been reclaimed from land-grabbers.

The government dislodged land-grabbers in the area on Thursday, 29th September, 2022 and has since taken possession of the area for the development of a new town.

According press statement signed by Mr. Chris Osa Nehikhare, Hon. Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, the exercise has been without casualty but a total of 11 persons were arrested for loitering in the area.

"As at September 30, 2022, a total 288 structures have been marked for various infractions on the land while a trench measuring 1,200 metres has been erected in the area.

"A Magistrate Court has been set up at the premises to try those arrested in the area in the course of the exercise."

Going further he added, "three billboards advertising the new town has been installed at three strategic locations within the land.

"The exercise has been largely peaceful as people have resumed their normal daily activities in the area. An emergency hospital has also been set up on site.

"The Edo State Government will continue to provide updates on the activities on the site as the exercise progresses."

Internal Memo: ... We are one...There is no victor, no vanquished.

Edo PDP Remain One Family - Aziegbemi

…Says there is no victor, no vanquished

By The9JaTREND

Edo State chapter of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) has called on its members to direct their energy towards facing the common opponent with the aim of winning the forthcoming 2023 General Election as the Supreme Court has put to an end the ugliest episodes of members’ colourful existence.

In an Internal Memo signed by Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, the State Chairman of the party regretted the unfortunate means to resolving the disagreement among the party leadership by going to court and as far as the Supreme Court.

Part of the Internal Memo reads, “The   Peoples' Democratic Party, PDP,  in Edo State has received the Judgement of the Supreme Court and is hopeful this puts to an end the ugliest episodes of our colourful existence.

“As members of the same political party let us now direct our energy towards facing our common opponent with the aim of winning the forth coming General Elections. There has to be an end to litigation.

“It is unfortunate and regrettable that we had to resolve our disagreement by going to court and as far as the Supreme Court.

“Now that the Supreme Court has reached this decision, it is time to sheath our swords.

“As members of the same political Party, it is now important that we unite and work towards achieving victory.

“I will immediately inaugurate a 7 Man Committee to help in the healing and integration process.”

Going further, he added, “The Leader of the Party and  Governor of the State, H. E. Godwin Obaseki from the onset, pre-primaries and throughout the legal journey maintained and insisted that whoever emerges as PDP candidates were his candidates. The Supreme Court judgement today has put to rest who the PDP candidates are. The list uploaded by the NWC into the INEC server contains the authentic candidates of the PDP in the forthcoming General Elections.

“Those that were not favoured by the court decision should be rest assured as HE, Godwin Obaseki is ready to work with every one as one big PDP family.

“We should exhibit the attitude of no victor nor vanquished,” the statement concluded.

The   Peoples' Democratic Party, PDP,  in Edo State has received the Judgement of the supreme court and is hopeful this puts to an end the ugliest episodes of our colourful existence.

As members of the same political party let us now direct our energy towards facing our common opponent with the aim of winning the forth coming General Elections. There has to be an end to litigation

It is unfortunate and regrettable that we had to resolve our disagreement by going to court and as far as the Supreme Court.

Now that the Supreme Court has reached this decision, its time to sheath our swords.

As members of the same political Party, it is now important that we unite and work towards achieving victory.

I will immediately inaugurate a 7 Man Committee to help in the healing and integration process.

The Leader of the Party and  Governor of the State, H.E. Godwin Obaseki from the onset, pre-primaries and throughout the legal journey maintained and insisted that whoever emerges as PDP candidates were his candidates. The Supreme Court judgement today has put to rest who the PDP candidates are. The list uploaded by the NWC into the INEC server contains the authentic candidates of the PDP in the forthcoming General Elections.

Those that were not favoured by the court decision should be rest assured as HE, Godwin Obaseki is ready to work with every one as one big PDP family.

We should exhibit the attitude of no victor nor vanquished.

 

Dr. Tony Aziegbemi

Chairman, PDP Edo State.