Davidson Ogbebor

BENIN CITY – Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Monday pledged N41 million in immediate financial assistance to Edo indigenes evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks, promising additional soft loans to help them rebuild their lives.

The governor announced a grant of N1 million to each of the 41 returnees during a reception held at the Festival Hall of the Government House in Benin City, describing the intervention as part of the state government’s commitment to supporting citizens in distress.

Okpebholo said the funds, to be disbursed within 24 hours, would enable the returnees to secure accommodation and begin the process of reintegrating into society.

“Your success begins today. Many of you possess valuable knowledge and skills. Once you identify the business or trade you want to pursue, come to us. We will provide soft loans to help you get started because we want you to reintegrate fully into society,” the governor said.

He assured the returnees that they would not be abandoned, stressing that Edo remained a safe and peaceful place to rebuild their lives.

“Between now and tomorrow, each of you will receive N1 million so you will not be stranded. There is no place better than home. Nobody will chase you away from here. We have peace in Edo, and Nigeria is your home,” he added.

The governor urged them to look beyond the losses suffered during the attacks, noting that preserving their lives was more important than any property left behind.

“They may have taken everything you owned, but your life is far more valuable. As a government, we will continue to stand by our people wherever they may be. Whenever they are in distress, we will do everything possible to rescue and support them,” he said.

Okpebholo also reflected on the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and South Africa, recalling Nigeria’s historic support for the anti-apartheid struggle and urging peaceful coexistence despite the recent attacks.

Speaking on behalf of the returnees, Riches Unubun expressed appreciation to both the Edo State and Federal Governments for facilitating their evacuation and providing immediate support.

He said the returnees were grateful for the governor’s intervention and pledged their support for the state’s development.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Edo State Migration Agency, Lucky Agazuma, commended Governor Okpebholo for his prompt response and commitment to the welfare of Edo indigenes facing hardship abroad.

The returnees were recently evacuated from South Africa following renewed incidents of xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals. The Edo State Government said the relief package forms part of broader efforts to assist them with rehabilitation and economic reintegration.

By Paul Omo Okojie

The media has long been regarded as the fourth estate of the realm, serving as a watchdog over government, business, and society. In a democracy, journalists have the responsibility to inform citizens accurately, hold those in power accountable, and provide a platform for diverse opinions. In Nigeria, however, public confidence in sections of the media has been tested by growing concerns over sensationalism, misinformation, political influence, and commercial pressures.

Many Nigerians increasingly question whether some media outlets are fulfilling their constitutional and ethical obligations. Critics argue that the rush to break stories first has sometimes taken precedence over thorough fact-checking, leading to inaccurate or misleading reports. In an era where social media amplifies every headline within seconds, even a small error can spread widely before corrections are issued.

Another concern is the influence of politics and ownership. Media organizations, like many institutions, often operate within financial and political realities. Where editorial independence is compromised by owners, advertisers, or political interests, reporting may reflect those influences rather than the public interest. Such perceptions can weaken trust in journalism and deepen political divisions.

Journalists themselves also face immense challenges. Poor remuneration, threats to personal safety, legal intimidation, and limited resources can make independent reporting difficult. These realities do not excuse ethical lapses, but they help explain the pressures under which many media professionals work.

It is important, however, to avoid painting all Nigerian journalists with the same brush. Across the country, many reporters, editors, and investigative journalists continue to demonstrate courage and professionalism. They expose corruption, document human rights abuses, and provide accurate reporting despite significant risks. Their work reminds us that ethical journalism remains alive in Nigeria.

The solution lies not in condemning the entire profession but in strengthening it. Media houses should invest more in editorial standards, rigorous fact-checking, and continuous professional development. Journalists must adhere to established codes of ethics by verifying information, correcting mistakes promptly, and maintaining independence from undue influence. At the same time, media owners should protect editorial freedom, while regulatory bodies should enforce professional standards fairly and without political interference.

The public also has a role to play. Citizens should verify information from multiple credible sources, question sensational claims, and support media organizations that consistently demonstrate accuracy and integrity. A healthy democracy depends not only on responsible journalists but also on an informed and discerning society and audience.

Ultimately, the credibility of the Nigerian media will be determined by its commitment to truth, fairness, accountability, and the public interest. Trust, once lost, is difficult to regain, but through ethical journalism and institutional reform, the media can continue to play its indispensable role in Nigeria’s democratic development.

Paul Okojie is a journalist/Media Consultant.

By Paul Okojie

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Diaspora Worldwide has expressed concern over reports of a proposed increase in the registration fees for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO), warning that such a move would place additional financial pressure on Nigerian families.

In a press statement signed by its Youth Leader, Hon. (Dr.) Abdul-Malik Rabiu Jaafar, FMNES, FCILRM, the group said increasing examination fees at a time of widespread economic hardship could prevent many students from completing their secondary education.

According to the statement, education remains one of the nation’s most important tools for development, and policies that make access to public examinations more expensive could undermine opportunities for young Nigerians.

The organization called on the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Education, WAEC, and NECO to reconsider any proposed increase in examination fees and instead adopt measures that would make education more affordable and accessible.

The ADC Diaspora Worldwide also urged the government to strengthen funding for the education sector and introduce support programmes for indigent students, arguing that no qualified student should be denied the opportunity to sit for national examinations because of financial constraints.

The group reaffirmed its solidarity with Nigerian students, parents, and other education stakeholders, calling for policies that promote equal access to education and safeguard the future of the nation’s youth.

The statement was signed by Hon. (Dr.) Abdul-Malik Rabiu Jaafar, FMNES, FCILRM, Youth Leader, ADC Diaspora Worldwide.

Davidson Ogbebor

BENIN CITY – Chairman-Elect of Egor Local Government Council, Hon. Osaro Osa Eribo, has expressed profound appreciation to the people of Egor Local Government Area for their overwhelming support and confidence in him following his victory in the recently concluded local government election.

In a message of appreciation issued after the election, Eribo attributed the successful outcome of the poll to the grace of God and the unwavering support of residents across the local government.

He described the massive turnout of voters and the mandate given to him as a clear demonstration of the people’s trust in his vision for a more progressive and prosperous Egor.

The Chairman-Elect also commended the leadership and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Egor Local Government Area, including ward chairmen, party executives, youths, women, elders, campaign council members, polling unit agents, canvassers, volunteers and supporters, for their dedication and sacrifices throughout the electioneering process.

According to him, the victory was the product of collective hard work, unity and commitment by party faithful and the people of Egor, assuring that their efforts would not be forgotten.

Eribo emphasized that the electoral victory belongs to all residents of Egor, describing it as a triumph for unity, progress and the collective aspiration to build a local government that serves every community without discrimination.

Reaffirming his commitment to effective governance, the Chairman-Elect pledged to provide transparent, accountable and inclusive leadership focused on delivering sustainable development across all wards and communities in the council area.

He assured residents that his administration would remain accessible to the people while prioritising policies and programmes aimed at improving the welfare of citizens and accelerating development.

Calling for reconciliation after the election, Eribo urged political stakeholders and residents to put partisan differences behind them and work together in the interest of the local government.

“The election is over. It is now time for all of us to unite and build the Egor of our dreams. Together, we can usher in a new era of growth, peace and prosperity for our people,” he said.

Eribo concluded by thanking the electorate once again for the confidence reposed in him and promised to justify the mandate through dedicated service to the people of Egor Local Government Area.

By Davidson Ogbebor

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States is mourning the death of veteran Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who died at the age of 71 following what his office described as a “brief and sudden illness.”

A statement issued by the senator’s office on Sunday announced his passing but did not disclose the cause of death. The family requested privacy while expressing appreciation for the prayers and support received from across the country.  

Graham, who represented South Carolina in the U.S. Senate since 2003, was one of the Republican Party’s most influential voices on national security and foreign policy. He was widely regarded as a leading advocate for strong U.S. military engagement abroad and was a close adviser to President Donald Trump on international affairs.  

President Donald Trump led tributes to the late senator, describing him as a “true American patriot” and one of the finest senators he had known.

In a statement posted on social media, Trump praised Graham’s decades of public service, saying he was a dedicated lawmaker who consistently placed America’s interests first. The president also extended condolences to Graham’s family, friends and the people of South Carolina, describing his death as a tremendous loss to the nation.  

Although Graham was an outspoken critic of Trump during the 2016 Republican presidential primaries, the two later forged a close political alliance. Graham became one of the president’s most trusted allies in Congress, defending key administration policies and playing a prominent role in debates on judicial appointments, immigration and foreign policy.  

Throughout his congressional career, Graham served on several influential Senate committees and earned bipartisan respect for his extensive experience in defence and international relations. In recent years, he remained actively involved in efforts to strengthen sanctions against Russia and maintain robust American support for allies abroad.  

Political leaders from both major parties, as well as several foreign governments, have offered condolences, describing Graham as a consequential figure whose influence on American foreign policy will be remembered for years to come.  

Davidson Ogbebor

Governor Monday Okpebholo has described voter turnout in Saturday’s Edo State local government elections as impressive, while accredited election observers commended the peaceful and orderly conduct of the exercise across the state.

The governor spoke after casting his vote at Ward 2, Udomi Primary School, Esan Central Local Government Area, where polling commenced early with electoral officials and security personnel on duty.

Governor Okpebholo arrived at his polling unit at about 10:24 a.m. and joined other voters in the queue before casting his ballot at 10:40 a.m. He later interacted with residents and stakeholders before addressing journalists.

Commending voters for their orderly conduct, the governor said reports from across the state indicated that the election was progressing peacefully.

“This election is very peaceful and it is going smoothly based on the feedback we are getting from the field,” he said.

“The turnout is very high. This is a demonstration of grassroots democracy. It shows that our people are interested in choosing those who will administer the affairs of their local governments. By the grace of God, a winner will emerge at the end of today’s election.”

He urged residents to remain peaceful throughout the exercise and await the official declaration of results by the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC).

Accredited election observers also gave the exercise a positive assessment.

Speaking in Udomi, the Executive Director of the Initiative for Awareness of Civic Education for Citizens, Comrade Fidelis Nwoke, said observer groups deployed across the state had not recorded any major security breaches or disruptions during the poll.

According to him, his organisation and other accredited observer groups monitored polling units in Udomi, Igueben and other locations, where voting was generally peaceful and orderly.

“My organisation and several other observer groups have been fully accredited to monitor the Edo State local government election. Reports coming in from different parts of the state indicate that the process has been peaceful so far,” Nwoke said.

“We have monitored Udomi, Igueben and other locations. We observed that the exercise has been peaceful, orderly and smooth. Electoral officials arrived on time, voters have been able to cast their ballots and, at the end of the exercise, winners and losers will naturally emerge.”

Security personnel maintained a visible presence at polling centres visited by journalists, while voters queued patiently to cast their ballots.

At Udomi Primary School, where Governor Okpebholo voted, residents expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the election, describing the process as orderly, transparent and free from intimidation.

Three voters—Christopher Ejodamen, Timothy Uwaya and Lucky Okoawo—said they voted without harassment, adding that the peaceful atmosphere encouraged greater participation and reinforced public confidence in grassroots democracy.

The voters also expressed support for Governor Okpebholo’s administration, noting that ongoing infrastructure projects and development initiatives across Edo State motivated many residents to participate in the election.

Saturday’s poll was conducted across the 18 local government areas of Edo State to elect chairmen and councillors. The exercise was supervised by the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC), with accredited observers, journalists and security agencies deployed to monitor the process.

As voting continued in many parts of the state, observers expressed optimism that the peaceful atmosphere witnessed during the early stages of the election would be sustained through the collation of results and official declaration of winners.

By Paul Omo Okojie

WASHINGTON/TEHRAN — The Middle East moved closer to a wider military confrontation on Thursday after the United States launched another wave of coordinated airstrikes against strategic Iranian military installations in southern Iran, prompting Tehran to retaliate with missile and drone attacks on facilities linked to U.S. forces and allies across the Gulf.  

The latest exchange marks one of the most serious escalations since the collapse of a fragile ceasefire and has heightened fears of a broader regional conflict capable of disrupting global energy supplies, international trade and diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring stability.  

According to the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), American aircraft and precision-guided missiles struck approximately 90 Iranian military targets across the country’s southern coastline. The targets included air defence systems, anti-ship missile batteries, radar installations, drone launch sites, Revolutionary Guard facilities, logistics hubs and naval infrastructure in Bandar Abbas, Sirik, Chabahar, Konarak, Bushehr and surrounding areas along the Strait of Hormuz.  

U.S. military officials said the operation was intended to degrade Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping after recent attacks on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime corridors through which a significant share of global crude oil exports passes.  

President Donald Trump defended the operation, insisting the United States would continue to protect its interests and those of its allies while maintaining freedom of navigation in international waters. He warned that any further Iranian attacks on American personnel or commercial shipping would attract a stronger military response, although he maintained that diplomatic contacts with Tehran had not completely ended.  

Iran swiftly condemned the strikes as a violation of international law and an attack on its sovereignty.

Within hours, Tehran launched retaliatory ballistic missile and armed drone attacks targeting U.S.-linked military installations in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and other Gulf locations. Air defence systems intercepted many of the incoming projectiles, although reports indicated that several military facilities sustained limited damage. Iranian authorities also claimed to have targeted U.S. military infrastructure and early-warning installations across the region.  

Latest Developments

The latest U.S. strikes triggered powerful explosions across several coastal cities in southern Iran, particularly Bandar Abbas and Sirik, where residents reported multiple blasts throughout the night. Iranian media also reported explosions near Bushehr and other strategic military sites, while emergency services responded to damaged facilities in parts of Hormozgan Province. Iranian officials said the attacks resulted in casualties and damage to military infrastructure, although independent verification remains limited.  

The renewed hostilities come at a particularly sensitive time for Iran following the death of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iranian leaders have pledged that continued foreign military pressure will not weaken the country’s resolve, while senior commanders vowed additional retaliation if U.S. operations continue.  

Global financial markets reacted sharply to the renewed fighting. Oil prices climbed amid concerns that sustained military operations around the Strait of Hormuz could disrupt one of the world’s busiest energy corridors, pushing up fuel prices and increasing inflationary pressures across international markets.  

Meanwhile, the United Nations, the European Union, Qatar, Oman, Turkey and several regional governments have appealed for restraint and renewed diplomacy. Mediators are continuing behind-the-scenes efforts to prevent the crisis from spiralling into a full-scale regional war.  

Security analysts warn that although neither Washington nor Tehran has formally declared war, the rapid cycle of military strikes and counter-strikes significantly increases the possibility of miscalculation, raising concerns that a localized confrontation could quickly expand into a broader conflict involving multiple countries across the Middle East.  

As the situation continues to evolve, governments worldwide are closely monitoring developments amid growing fears that the escalating confrontation could reshape the geopolitical and security landscape of the Middle East for years to come.

— Ends —

Davidson Ogbebor

Benin City-The Edo State Police Command has announced a restriction of movement across the state ahead of the Local Government Council Elections scheduled for Saturday, July 11, 2026.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikedem, ANIPR, the Command said the restriction would take effect from 12:00 a.m. (midnight) to 6:00 p.m. on election day as part of measures to ensure a peaceful, orderly and secure electoral process.

According to the statement, the restriction forms part of a comprehensive security arrangement put in place by the Command in collaboration with other security agencies to safeguard voters, electoral officials, sensitive election materials and prevent any breakdown of law and order.

The police said all vehicular and human movement within Edo State would be prohibited during the period, except for officials of the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC), accredited election observers, duly accredited media personnel, security agencies, emergency responders and other essential service providers on official election duty.

The Command urged residents to comply fully with the directive, noting that security personnel had been strategically deployed across the state’s 18 local government areas to enforce the restriction and maintain public order.

It warned that anyone found violating the movement restriction or engaging in acts capable of disrupting the electoral process would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, reassured residents that adequate security measures had been put in place to guarantee a peaceful, free, fair and credible election.

He also encouraged eligible voters to conduct themselves peacefully and exercise their civic responsibility in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC), while reaffirming the Command’s commitment to ensuring the security of lives, property and the integrity of the electoral process.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has expressed profound grief over the death of the immediate past Catholic Archbishop of Benin City, Augustine Obiora Akubeze, describing his passing as a monumental loss to the Catholic Church, Edo State and Nigeria.

In a condolence message issued on Thursday, the Governor said the late Archbishop devoted his life to the service of God and humanity, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of faith, compassion, integrity and selfless leadership.

Governor Okpebholo noted that Archbishop Akubeze distinguished himself as a humble shepherd and fearless advocate of justice, peace and good governance throughout his ministry, both as Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City and as former President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria.

He described the late cleric as a man of deep faith, wisdom and uncommon humility whose commitment to truth, unity and the welfare of the less privileged earned him admiration across religious and social divides.

According to the Governor, “Archbishop Akubeze dedicated his life to serving God and uplifting humanity. He was a strong moral voice who consistently stood for justice, peace, unity and the welfare of the poor.

“His passing is a great loss not only to the Catholic Church but also to Edo State and the nation. We have lost a respected spiritual father whose counsel, integrity and unwavering commitment to truth inspired many within and beyond the Church.”

Governor Okpebholo extended his heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, the clergy, religious and lay faithful of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, as well as the family of the late Archbishop.

He assured the Catholic community of the Edo State Government’s solidarity during this period of mourning and urged the people of the state, irrespective of religious affiliation, to pray for the peaceful repose of the departed cleric.

The Governor prayed that Almighty God would grant Archbishop Augustine Akubeze eternal rest and give strength and comfort to all who mourn him, urging the faithful to uphold the enduring values of faith, love, service and integrity that defined his life and ministry.

Edo State Government (EDSG) has disclosed plans to rehabilitate and overhaul the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Center in Benin City to restore it as a public monument and a hub to attract all cultural activities across the State and beyond.

The Secretary to Edo State Government Musa Ikhilor Esq disclosed the plan while receiving members and executives of Aiguobasinmwin movement world-wide and Coalition of Benin social cultural organizations who paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Benin City.

Ikhilor said aside from the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Center, the Edo State Government will also renovate some areas in the palace of the Oba of Benin that needs renovations.

He noted that the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Center would have been renovated and rehabilitated a year ago but lack of budgetary allocation affected the plans of the government.

“The issue of the dilapidation of the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Center is what should have been handled last year. In fact the governor sent the then Managing Director (MD) of the Public Building and Maintenance Agency to visit the place and see how it can be restored.

“The agency did a survey and came up with a plan on how to overhaul and rehabilitate the cultural Center. But lack of budgetary allocation affected the plan but now we are reviewing that plan. Aside from the cultural Center, the palace of our revered monarch, the Oba of Benin is also inclusive in the plan.

“Some renovative work needs to be carried out in the palace. The issue of Oba Akenzua II Cultural Center and the Palace of the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II is being looked into by the governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo.

The SSG added that the Cultural Center attracted a lot of fun attending cultural events, assuring the people that the Okpebholo led administration will restore the Center and ensure it attracts cultural events and activities in Edo State and across the Country.

“I recall that at a point the main event hall was Urokpota Hall, then came the cultural center and it became the center of events.

“Oba Akenzua II Cultural Center should be a public monument and a hub for cultural activities.
As a government we are going to ensure we revive it because there are a lot of activities that can take place here, it is what this government will do”, he concluded.

The Commissioner for Art, Culture and creative economy, Hon. Chris Okaiben said Edo culture is one of the greatest in Nigeria, noting that advancing into the creative sector will bring endless benefits to Edo people and the State at large.

He said his Ministry is planning to organize the creative content and about 1,700 persons have indicated interest and it will scale up the opportunity to promote the achievement of governor Monday Okpebholo.

“The Ministry will promote the good intentions of the government, promote and encourage tourists destinations for those intending to visit Edo State.

“I am glad to report that our Royal father the Oba of Benin invited me and informed me that as part of his 10 years coronation, it will begin with the Edo Festival. The plan for the celebration is on”, he concluded.

Speaking on behalf of the group, the Coordinator General Coalition of Benin Social cultural Organization, Mr. Amas Osazee commended governor Monday Okpebholo on his achievement so far on securing the lives and properties of Edo people.

“I want to thank the governor for not playing politics with the returned artifacts of His Royal Majesty. He has done well in that aspect and he made it known to us that he will never play politics with such. We wish him well in managing the affairs of the State.

“As a group, we appeal to the State government to renovate the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Center. The State of the structure is questionable and not what many people wants to see. We appeal to the governor to redirect his focus to that because we are cultural people and believe in the legacy of the monarchy and the State government”.

The President of Aiguobasinmwin movement world-wide Iyamu Osaro Culture said the group is always in defense of the culture, the rights of Benin people as well as the right of the Oba of Benin.

He noted that the group has played a significant role in ensuring that the present administration came on board and restore the identity of the Edo people balkanised by the Obaseki led administration.

“Our support for governor Monday Okpebholo is not for personal gains but for the administration to restore the identity of the Benin people and we are all glad that the said identity has been restored by this government “.