By Davidson Ogbebor

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State has officially flagged off its campaign for the forthcoming local government elections, with party leaders expressing confidence in securing victory at the polls.

The campaign flag-off ceremony, held at Eribo Estate along Textile Mill Road, Benin City, attracted party stakeholders, supporters, youth groups, women associations, and ward executives from across the ten wards of the local government area.

Speaking at the event, APC leaders described the large turnout as a demonstration of the party’s growing popularity and acceptance among residents of Egor.

Among dignitaries present were the APC Chairman in Egor Local Government Area, Chief Emmanuel Iyase; Barrister Gentleman Amegor; the State Publicity Secretary of the APC, Hon. Osarobo Idehen; the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Edo State Government, Hon. Pius Alile; and the Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Hon. Nosa Adams.

The ceremony featured the formal presentation of party flags to APC councillorship candidates representing the ten wards in the local government area, signalling the commencement of grassroots campaigns ahead of the election.

Party leaders who addressed the gathering expressed confidence in the competence and credibility of the candidates, noting that their grassroots connection and commitment to public service would enhance the party’s chances at the polls.

The event also attracted prominent APC figures, including Hon. Osaze Igbinovia (popularly known as SAZY), APC flagbearer for the Egor/Ikpoba-Okha Federal Constituency; Hon. Jennifer Osarumwense Iyamu, APC flagbearer for Egor Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly; Hon. Ikpomwosa Aitusi, APC flagbearer for Ikpoba-Okha Constituency; and former Chairman of Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Council, Hon. Sunny Ogbewe.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the party’s flag to the APC chairmanship candidate for Egor Local Government Council, Hon. Osaro Osa Eribo. The presentation was greeted with cheers and applause from supporters, who expressed optimism about the party’s prospects in the election.

Addressing party members, leaders urged supporters to remain united and committed throughout the campaign period, stressing the importance of mobilizing voters across the local government area.

They maintained that the enthusiasm displayed at the campaign flag-off reflected the confidence of party members and supporters in the APC’s ability to win the forthcoming local government elections and deliver effective governance at the grassroots level.

The Edo State Government has assured residents that forests and farmlands across the state will soon become safer with the recruitment and ongoing training of forest guards drawn from indigenous populations in local government areas and host communities.

Chief Press Secretary to Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, disclosed this during a radio programme, ‘AS E DE HOT, a pidgin English programme on OJ FM radio, explaining that the decision to recruit locals was aimed at strengthening security operations through their knowledge of the terrain.

“These are people who know the environment. They understand the forests, the pathways, and the communities. That local knowledge is a major advantage in securing rural areas and protecting farmers who depend on these lands,” Ebojele said.

He stated that the initiative was part of Governor Okpebholo’s wider security strategy to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies and improve surveillance in rural communities that have been vulnerable to criminal activities.

Speaking on last Sunday’s abduction of a woman at the Vegetable Market in Benin City, the Chief Press Secretary said the Edo State Police Command had commenced investigation immediately after the Governor directed security agencies to ensure that the perpetrators were apprehended.

According to him, the incident was receiving urgent attention, adding that security operatives were working tirelessly to track down those behind the crime.

“The Governor gave a clear directive, and the Police Command is acting on it. We want the family and members of the public to know that this matter is being treated with urgency. The perpetrators will be identified and brought to justice,” he said.

Ebojele also cautioned social media users and online platforms against sensationalising security-related incidents, noting that exaggerated reports could create unnecessary panic and affect ongoing security operations.

He acknowledged that insecurity remains a challenge in Nigeria and other parts of the world but maintained that Governor Okpebholo had made significant investments in security personnel, equipment and intelligence gathering since assuming office.

“When Governor Okpebholo came into office, the security situation in Edo State was a major concern. Since then, he has invested heavily in personnel, equipment and intelligence infrastructure. The improvement is evident. We are not where we were, and we will continue working until our people are fully protected,” Ebojele said.

He urged residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities to security agencies and support ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security across the state.

….Warns Pastors Against Interceding for Arrested Suspects

BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has alleged that some residents of the state are collaborating with criminal elements from outside Edo to carry out kidnapping and other violent crimes.

The governor made the allegation while addressing participants at the 2026 Ministers’ Conference organised by the Edo State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Benin City.

According to him, criminal networks operating in the state are increasingly being strengthened by local collaborators who recruit armed gangs from other parts of the country to execute kidnap-for-ransom operations.

“Do you know one funny thing — our people are now going outside Edo to recruit criminals to help them do the job. They will kidnap somebody and hand the victim over to them in the bush,” the governor said.

He further expressed concern over the growing display of unexplained wealth by some individuals, noting that criminal activities were often disguised under the pretext of internet fraud.

“Tomorrow you will see them driving expensive cars and building houses. How are they getting these things? They will tell you they are Yahoo Boys,” he added.

Governor Okpebholo urged religious leaders not to intervene on behalf of individuals arrested for criminal offences, warning that such appeals would not influence the course of justice.

“Pastors, if you hear that I have arrested somebody, don’t come to beg me,” he said.

The governor acknowledged that security challenges still exist in the state but maintained that reports of insecurity were being deliberately exaggerated by political opponents seeking to tarnish the image of his administration.

He cited a recent incident in which he received information about an alleged security breach along Sapele Road and immediately deployed security operatives to the area, only for investigations to reveal that no such incident had occurred.

“All of this is just to bring this government down, to give it a bad name. It is not that we are free, but not in the way they are hyping it,” he stated.

Okpebholo assured residents that security agencies were working tirelessly to prevent criminal elements from gaining a foothold in Edo State and reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property.

The governor also called on the congregation to offer special prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he credited with initiating reforms that have contributed to ongoing development projects in the state.

According to him, the removal of fuel subsidy, though difficult for many Nigerians, has enabled increased investment in infrastructure and development.

In her remarks, Pastor Margaret Agbonifo commended Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to faith and public service, praying for divine guidance and strength throughout his tenure.

Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of CAN in Edo State, Rev. Alfred Agbonlahor, lauded the governor for the ongoing rehabilitation of the Benin-Sapele Road, describing the project as a significant intervention for residents and motorists.

Signed

Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele
Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo

Students from two public secondary schools in Edo State have emerged champions of the Nigeria-Indonesia Bilateral International Debate Competition, defeating their Indonesian counterparts in all four debate rounds held in Jakarta, the country’s capital City.

The Edo-led Nigerian team, comprising Miss Victoria Nwaezeapu of Urora Secondary School and Master Precious Thomas of Western Boys High School, Ikpoba Hill, secured a clean 4-0 victory against students from Santa Ursula Junior High School and SMP Lab School Junior High School in Indonesia.

The competition, which featured debates on key global issues including artificial intelligence in basic education, free university education, and restrictions on public donations to political office holders and their families, showcased the intellectual ability and confidence of the Nigerian students.

The team was led to Indonesia by the Chairman of the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Omonzane Sonia Ebanehita, who described the achievement as a proud moment for Nigeria and Edo State.

Speaking during a welcome ceremony for Team Edo at the Benin Airport on Monday, June 15, 2026, Hon. Omonzane said the victory was a reflection of the state’s investment in quality education, infrastructure development, teacher recruitment, promotions, and improved welfare.

“Today, we are celebrating knowledge, confidence and the power of education. When this prestigious selection came to Edo State, I was not frightened because I knew it was based on merit and competence because of what His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, is doing in education,” she said.

She added that the students’ performance attracted admiration in Indonesia, describing their success as a product of hard work, teamwork, and the administration’s commitment to providing Edo children with a safe and conducive learning environment.

The Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Education, Mr. Enodolomwanyi Otamere, also congratulated the students, saying their achievement demonstrated the positive impact of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s investment in education and youth development.

He assured Edo students that more opportunities and achievements await them while commending the Ministry of Education and all stakeholders for supporting the growth of education in the state.

The captain of Team Edo, Master Precious Thomas, thanked Governor Okpebholo for creating opportunities for students to participate in international competitions.

He encouraged fellow students to remain committed to education, saying success should be determined by hard work, dedication, and discipline rather than background.

Also present at the welcome ceremony were the Chairman of the Edo State Senior Secondary Education Board (SSEB), Dr. Rita Otibho Erewele, and other senior officials of the Ministry of Education.

The Edo State Government has demolished a building allegedly linked to cultism and ritual-related activities and sealed another property in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, as part of its ongoing campaign against criminal activities across the state.

The operation, conducted under the state government’s “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists,” involved personnel of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies operating under the supervision of senior security officials attached to Governor Monday Okpebholo.

Speaking during the exercise, Secretary of the Edo State Security Squad, Barrister John Izegaegbe, said the action followed intelligence reports and preliminary findings from security investigations in the area.

According to him, one of the properties sealed at Ebhoijie, Uromi, was linked to an ongoing murder and alleged ritual-related investigation.

“We are here on the marching order of Governor Monday Okpebholo, and upon arriving, we discovered that it is a ritual and murder case,” Izegaegbe said.

He disclosed that security operatives discovered the decomposed body of a gateman, identified as Mildah Dalandi, inside the building. According to him, medical experts who examined the remains estimated that the body had been in the apartment for about one month before it was discovered.

Security officials said the body was found on June 2, 2026, after residents reportedly raised concerns over a strong odour emanating from the premises.

Izegaegbe stated that two suspects, identified as Eweh Favour and Eweh Bright, are currently at large and have been directed to report to the Uromi Police Divisional Headquarters or Area Command within 72 hours to assist ongoing investigations.

“The suspects are on the run, but we are giving them 72 hours to report themselves at the Uromi Police Divisional Headquarters or Area Command to clear themselves and enable further investigation into the matter,” he said.

Following the discovery, security agencies demolished a bungalow located on Dr. Ebason Street, Uromi, which officials alleged was connected to the suspects.

“This house will certainly be brought down as the government will not tolerate criminal elements in the state,” Izegaegbe stated.

He further alleged that investigations and evidence recovered from the property suggested it was being used as an initiation ground for members of a cult group.

According to him, items recovered from the premises included laptops, machetes, battle axes, native pots, candles, a red-coloured liquid suspected to be used for ritual purposes, identity documents and photographs, including one reportedly bearing the inscription, “Singapore ritualist.”

Izegaegbe said the demolition was intended to serve as a deterrent to individuals involved in criminal activities across the state.

“This building is going down to serve as a deterrent to other criminal elements who are engaged in criminal activities in Edo State. We are warning them to leave the state or have themselves to be blamed, as the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration will not tolerate them causing havoc in the state,” he said.

The Edo State Government said investigations into the matter are ongoing and reiterated its commitment to dismantling criminal networks and strengthening security across communities in the state.

Benin City- The Chairman of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Festus Alenkhe, has issued a warning to Mr. Timothy Osemwengie, demanding an immediate end to what he described as sustained acts of online harassment, defamation and cyberbullying against him.

In a statement issued on June 15, 2026, Alenkhe alleged that Osemwengie had, for more than a week, published false, abusive and defamatory comments on various online platforms with the intention of damaging his reputation.

The Edo NUJ chairman said he had deliberately refrained from responding publicly to the alleged attacks, noting that his restraint should not be interpreted as acceptance of the conduct.

According to Alenkhe, cyberbullying, online harassment and defamation are offences punishable under Nigeria’s Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act, 2015, and warned that continued publication of such content could attract legal consequences.

Describing the notice as a final warning, he called on Osemwengie to immediately cease all forms of defamatory and harassing content directed at him.

Alenkhe stated that failure to comply would leave him with no option but to seek redress through appropriate administrative and legal channels, while presenting available evidence to relevant authorities for investigation and possible action.

“I expect immediate compliance,” he stated.

The warning comes amid growing concerns over the increasing use of social media platforms for personal attacks, cyberbullying and the spread of defamatory content, a trend that stakeholders have repeatedly urged authorities to address through existing legal frameworks.

Benin City- The Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has congratulated the Presiding Bishop of the Church of God Mission International, Rt. Rev. Dr. Matthew Akhaze Okpebholo, JP, on the occasion of his 76th birthday, describing him as a distinguished servant of God whose contributions have positively impacted countless lives.

In a congratulatory message issued on behalf of the Government and people of Edo State, Governor Okpebholo praised the cleric’s decades-long commitment to Christian ministry, education, healthcare, philanthropy and community development.

The governor noted that Bishop Okpebholo has remained a shining example of compassion, sacrifice and purposeful leadership, dedicating his life to the service of God and humanity while building institutions that continue to benefit present and future generations.

According to the governor, the bishop’s efforts in establishing schools, supporting healthcare initiatives, empowering individuals and providing spiritual guidance have contributed significantly to the social and economic development of communities within and beyond Edo State.

Governor Okpebholo further commended the cleric’s philanthropic interventions and investments in human capital development, which he said have created opportunities and inspired hope among many Nigerians.

He specifically recalled Bishop Okpebholo’s recent donation of a Geriatric Centre to the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, describing the gesture as a reflection of his enduring commitment to improving healthcare delivery and giving back to society.

“As Bishop Matthew Okpebholo marks his 76th birthday, we celebrate a life devoted to faith, compassion and selfless service. His remarkable contributions to humanity remain a source of inspiration to many,” the governor said.

Governor Okpebholo prayed for renewed strength, sound health and many more years of impactful service for the cleric, whom he described as a true icon of faith and community development.

Davidson Ogbebor

BENIN CITY – Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has congratulated Edo Queens Football Club following the team’s impressive victory over FC Robo Queens, describing the achievement as a source of pride for the state and a reflection of the talent, determination, and resilience of Edo athletes.

Edo Queens delivered a commanding performance, defeating FC Robo Queens 4-1. Chioma Moses scored a brace in the first half, while Precious Oscar and Mary Mamudu added second-half goals to complete the emphatic win.

The victory has strengthened Edo Queens’ bid for the 2026 Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) Premiership Super Six title, further underlining the team’s consistency and competitive edge.

Governor Okpebholo commended the players, coaching crew, management, and support staff for their dedication, discipline, and commitment to excellence, noting that the team’s success has reinforced Edo State’s status as a leading hub for sports development in Nigeria.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to repositioning the sports sector through sustained investment in infrastructure, athlete development, and policies designed to create opportunities for young talents across the state.

According to the governor, sports remain a vital tool for youth empowerment, social inclusion, and unity, stressing that the state government will continue to provide the necessary support for athletes and teams to compete successfully at national and international levels.

“Edo Queens have made the people of Edo State proud. Their achievement reflects the spirit of excellence, hard work, and determination that defines our people. I congratulate the champions and assure them of our continued support,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo also urged Edo athletes to remain focused and committed to their goals, assuring them that his administration would continue to invest in initiatives aimed at restoring and sustaining Edo’s position as a powerhouse in Nigerian sports.

He described Edo Queens as worthy ambassadors of the state and encouraged them to continue inspiring young girls and aspiring athletes across Edo State.

Signed:

Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State

BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has condemned the kidnapping incident reported at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City, describing the attack as unacceptable and a threat to the safety of residents.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, the governor directed the Edo State Commissioner of Police to launch an immediate and coordinated investigation into the incident.

Okpebholo said security agencies had been instructed to intensify efforts aimed at rescuing the victims and apprehending those responsible for the attack.

According to the statement, the governor warned that his administration would not tolerate acts of criminality capable of undermining public safety, security, and peace in the state.

“The government will not relent until those behind this criminal act are identified, arrested and made to face the full weight of the law,” the statement quoted the governor as saying.

The governor also appealed to residents of Benin City and other parts of Edo State to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and activities to the nearest police station.

He stressed that timely and credible information from members of the public would enhance ongoing security operations and assist law enforcement agencies in combating crime across the state.

Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that government would continue to work closely with security agencies to ensure the safety of all citizens.

Paul Okojie

When a father don’t discipline his children early in their life, they become his problem at his old age, that’s the case of Nigeria today. Nigeria’s security crisis has reached a level where difficult questions must be asked and uncomfortable truths confronted. The continued rise in kidnapping, banditry and terrorism across the country raises concerns not only about the capacity of the state to protect its citizens but also about the forces sustaining these criminal enterprises.

Across many parts of the federation, kidnapping has evolved into a lucrative industry. Criminal gangs now view human beings as commodities, reducing innocent citizens to bargaining chips in a dangerous marketplace of fear. Families, communities and organizations are routinely compelled to pay huge sums of money to secure the release and freedom of loved ones after horrific treatments. While such actions are often driven by desperation, the broader implications for national security cannot be ignored.

Every ransom paid to kidnappers potentially strengthens the operational capacity of criminal networks. The funds generated from these criminal activities can be used to recruit members, purchase communication equipment, establish intelligence networks and, most importantly, acquire weapons. The result is a vicious cycle in which kidnapping finances the tools needed for more kidnapping, terrorism and violent crime.

The proliferation of small arms and light weapons has become one of the most alarming consequences of this cycle. Nigeria’s porous borders, weak enforcement mechanisms and thriving black market have contributed to the widespread availability of firearms. Weapons that find their way into the hands of terrorists and kidnappers rarely remain confined to a single criminal operation. They circulate across regions, fueling armed robbery, communal clashes, political violence and insurgency.

The danger is not merely the presence of weapons but the normalization of violence they bring. Communities that once depended on traditional conflict-resolution mechanisms now increasingly confront armed actors with superior firepower. This development threatens the authority of the state and undermines public confidence in law enforcement institutions.

Equally troubling is the growing division that insecurity is creating among Nigerians. Criminal violence often triggers ethnic, regional and religious accusations that deepen existing fault lines. Instead of uniting against criminality, communities frequently retreat into suspicion and blame. Such divisions serve only the interests of those who profit from instability.

It is therefore legitimate to ask who benefits from the continuation of insecurity. Criminal syndicates certainly profit. Arms traffickers profit. Those engaged in illicit financial transactions profit. While there is no publicly available evidence to support sweeping accusations against specific individuals or groups, history teaches that prolonged insecurity often creates beneficiaries whose interests are tied to the persistence of conflict.

This reality underscores the need for more robust investigations into the financing of terrorism, kidnapping and organized crime. Security agencies must not focus solely on the foot soldiers carrying weapons. Greater attention must be directed toward the financiers, suppliers, collaborators and facilitators who make these criminal activities possible.

Nigeria must also resist the temptation to allow insecurity to push citizens toward widespread civilian armament. As frustration grows, some communities may seek to acquire weapons for self-defence. While understandable, such a development could create even greater instability and lead to a future where armed groups operate beyond effective state control.

The challenge before the nation is clear. Government must strengthen intelligence gathering, improve border security, disrupt illicit financial networks, prosecute arms traffickers and invest in community-based security structures. Equally important, Nigerians must reject narratives that seek to divide the country along ethnic or religious lines whenever criminal incidents occur.

The battle against insecurity is not simply a military struggle. It is a fight for national cohesion, public trust and the future of the Nigerian state. If kidnapping remains profitable and illegal weapons continue to flow freely, the crisis will deepen. But if the financial and logistical lifelines sustaining criminal organizations are severed, Nigeria can begin to reverse the tide.

The time has come for decisive action. The nation cannot afford to remain trapped in a cycle where fear finances violence and violence generates even greater fear. To do so would be to risk allowing insecurity to become a permanent feature of Nigerian life.