Davidson Ogbebor

BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has said the ongoing construction of the Jattu Ultra-Modern Market in Etsako West Local Government Area is aimed at boosting commercial activities, creating economic opportunities, and improving the livelihoods of residents across Edo North and the state.

The governor made the remarks on Friday while inspecting the project, describing it as a strategic investment designed to stimulate trade and commerce and drive economic growth in Edo State.

Governor Okpebholo was accompanied on the inspection by the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh; former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Comrade Adams Aliu Oshiomhole; Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; and other senior government officials.

Expressing satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, the governor said the project would transform Jattu into a major commercial hub serving traders from Edo State and beyond.

“We are not just building a market; we are developing a modern commercial centre that will serve the people of Edo North, Edo State and Nigerians from across the country.

“This is a central market for all of us. We are maintaining the highest construction standards. The market has multiple floors, a solid basement and a strong structural foundation. It is a massive project that will stand the test of time,” he said.

Okpebholo said the market project reflects his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of the people through impactful infrastructure while appreciating residents for their continued support.

The governor also linked his administration’s development agenda to his confidence in securing widespread public support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general election.

“People ask how we intend to secure 2.5 million votes, but they overlook the impact of the projects we are delivering. Our performance will speak for us, and the people will respond accordingly,” he said.

Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, described Jattu Market as a historic commercial centre that had served the old Midwest Region for decades, saying its reconstruction would restore its status as one of the state’s leading trading hubs.

“This market will benefit the people of Edo North and the entire state. We commend President Tinubu for creating an enabling environment for governors to deliver meaningful projects and Governor Okpebholo for prioritising the reconstruction of this important market,” he said.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole also hailed the governor for rebuilding the more than 200-year-old market, describing it as an enduring symbol of Edo North’s commercial heritage.

Recalling his childhood experiences at the market, Oshiomhole said it had long served as a meeting point for traders from communities across the region.

“As a child, I sold baskets in this market. People from all parts of Edo North gathered here on market days to trade. Rebuilding it will preserve its rich history while providing a safer, more modern and more conducive environment for business.”

Responding to criticism over the cost of the project, Oshiomhole said the scale and quality of construction justified the investment.

“Anyone who understands the volume of reinforced concrete and structural work involved will appreciate that this project represents value for money,” he added.

The reconstruction of Jattu Ultra-Modern Market forms part of the Okpebholo administration’s broader urban renewal programme, which includes the redevelopment of Oba Market in Benin City and Ekpoma Modern Market, with improved facilities aimed at enhancing safety, convenience and economic productivity for traders across the state.

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

By Davidson Ogbebor

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has rejected a ruling delivered by the Federal High Court in Lokoja, Kogi State, which reportedly set aside an earlier judgment that led to the party’s registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a statement issued on Friday by its National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas Zuwoghe, the party described the ruling by Justice Isah Dashen as legally flawed and announced plans to immediately challenge the decision at the Court of Appeal.

According to the NDC, it had approached the Federal High Court in December 2025 after INEC allegedly refused to register it as a political party. The court subsequently upheld the association’s constitutional right to freedom of association and directed the electoral commission to register it.

The party stated that since its registration, it has carried out extensive political activities across the country, including membership registration, ward, local government, state and national congresses, conventions and party primaries conducted in line with INEC’s timetable.

The NDC further noted that it participated in recent bye-elections in Nasarawa and Enugu states and has already nominated candidates for various elective positions, including governorship, National Assembly, presidential and vice-presidential offices ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Reacting to the latest court ruling, the party said the application that resulted in the decision was filed by an association known as the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which it described as neither a registered political party nor a participant in the current electoral process.

The NDC argued that the court had already delivered a final judgment on the matter and had become functus officio, meaning it no longer had the jurisdiction to revisit issues already decided.

The party also contended that the concerns raised by groups claiming rights to its symbol and colours had been addressed in the earlier judgment, adding that no appeal was filed against that decision.

“We are dissatisfied with the decision and have instructed our legal team to immediately proceed to the Court of Appeal to challenge the jurisdiction and propriety of the order,” the statement said.

The NDC clarified that while the court reportedly set aside its earlier judgment, there was no order directing the deregistration of the party.

It therefore assured its candidates, members and supporters that it remains a legally recognized political party and that all nominations already made remain valid pending the outcome of the appeal.

The party accused unnamed interests of attempting to narrow Nigeria’s democratic space and suppress opposition voices ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the statement, Nigerians deserve a broad range of political choices and alternatives, adding that efforts to exclude political platforms from the electoral process through litigation should be resisted.

The NDC maintained that if the Peace Movement Party was dissatisfied with the original judgment, its proper remedy was to file an appeal within the legally prescribed period rather than seek to overturn the judgment through a motion.

The party expressed confidence that the appellate court would overturn the ruling and reaffirm its legal status.

“We thank Nigerians for their support and assure our members and candidates that our platform remains strong, legal and committed to participating fully in the 2027 electoral process,” the statement concluded.

By Davidson Ogbebor

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has assured residents that his administration is intensifying efforts to eliminate criminal activities across the state and create a secure environment that will enable farmers to return to their farms without fear.

The governor said restoring security remains a top priority of his administration, noting that lasting peace is essential for agricultural productivity, economic growth and the overall well-being of residents.

Okpebholo gave the assurance on Friday during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign for the forthcoming local government elections in Edo Central Senatorial District, held at the Uromi Town Hall in Esan North-East Local Government Area.

He said his administration would continue to collaborate with security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to safeguard lives and property while promoting peace, unity and stability across Edo State.

According to him, the fight against insecurity requires firm and decisive action, stressing that criminal elements terrorising communities would face the full weight of the law.

“Governors are ready to fight insecurity across the nation. The perpetrators will be exposed and they will run away from the country. In Edo State, there will be security and our farmers will be able to return to their farms,” he said.

The governor also reiterated his determination to ensure that kidnappers and other criminal elements have no hiding place in the state, saying effective prosecution would serve as a deterrent.

“I am serious with the fight against insecurity. By the time we execute one, two, three and more of these criminals, others will run away from Edo State,” he stated.

Okpebholo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support of the Edo State Government, describing the partnership as a key driver of ongoing development across the state.

He also praised the implementation of local government autonomy, saying it had enabled councils to access their allocations directly and undertake grassroots development projects.

“The President loves Edo State. When I met him, he told me not to touch local government funds, and I obeyed. The funds go directly to the local governments, and the chairmen are using them to bring development and growth across the 18 local government areas,” the governor said.

Urging APC members and supporters to mobilise ahead of the local government elections, Okpebholo described the poll as a critical step in strengthening the party’s grassroots base ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, called on APC candidates to prepare for the responsibilities of governance, stressing that electoral victory must translate into meaningful development at the grassroots.

Oshiomhole also commended President Tinubu for granting financial autonomy to local governments and urged elected council officials to work closely with the state government to advance Edo’s economic transformation.

The Edo State APC Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, welcomed defectors into the party and appealed to members to unite behind Governor Okpebholo and the party’s candidates in the forthcoming council elections.

“I call on you all to support our governor to ensure our candidates win the local government election. It will show that we are ready for the general election, where we have promised the President 2.5 million votes, which is achievable,” Tenebe said.

Introducing the APC chairmanship and councillorship candidates, the party’s Deputy State Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh, said the governor’s performance in office had strengthened the party’s campaign.

He listed some of the administration’s achievements to include the completion of about 300 kilometres of roads, construction of 68 primary healthcare centres, procurement of 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses for distribution across the state’s 18 local government areas, and increased funding for tertiary institutions, including Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma; Edo University, Iyamho; Edo State Polytechnic, Usen; and the College of Education, Igueben.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial chairman, Bishop Anthony Okosun, commended the governor’s developmental strides and pledged the support of the new APC members for the administration’s vision of building a more prosperous Edo State.

Davidson Ogbebor

Benin City, Edo State – Panic gripped residents and business owners along the busy Sapele Road axis of Benin City on Thursday evening after a gang of armed robbers launched a daring attack around Agip Junction and Guobadia Junction near Country Home Hotel at about 5:00 p.m. on June 25, 2026

According to eyewitness accounts, the heavily armed robbers arrived in a black Lexus RX 350 SUV. Witnesses said the vehicle reportedly had no rear registration plate, although a registration number was displayed at the front.

The robbers allegedly targeted several Point of Sale (POS) operators in the area, identified by residents as Miss Blessing, Justina and Omo, making away with cash and other valuables during the operation.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers fired gunshots indiscriminately, causing panic among traders, motorists and residents who fled for safety. The sound of gunfire reportedly sent businesses scrambling to close while passers-by sought cover.

“The gunshots were everywhere. People ran in different directions for safety. It was a terrifying experience,” an eyewitness who spoke on condition of anonymity said.

Residents disclosed that after carrying out the robbery operation, the suspects abandoned the Lexus SUV and escaped in a waiting mini-bus believed to have been used as their getaway vehicle.

Sources at the scene said police officers later arrived and towed away the abandoned Lexus vehicle as part of ongoing investigations into the incident.

The latest attack has heightened fears among residents who say criminal activities have become increasingly common along the once peaceful Sapele Road corridor. Community members are calling on security agencies to strengthen surveillance and patrols in the area to prevent further attacks.

Efforts to obtain an official reaction from the Edo State Police Command proved unsuccessful as calls placed to the Police Public Relations Officer were not answered as of the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, residents have urged law enforcement authorities to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and restore public confidence in the security of the neighborhood.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Davidson Ogbebor

The Edo State Government has congratulated the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Professor Julius Ogar Ihonvbere, on his 70th birthday, describing him as one of the state’s most distinguished sons whose contributions to academia, public service and national development have brought honour to Edo State and Nigeria.

In a goodwill message, Governor Monday Okpebholo said Professor Ihonvbere’s outstanding career in scholarship, democratic governance and legislative leadership reflects a lifetime of dedication to service, excellence and nation-building.

The governor noted that the lawmaker, who represents Owan Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has continued to project Edo State positively through his accomplishments in academia, his leadership role in the National Assembly and his commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

According to the governor, Ihonvbere’s journey from the academic community to international scholarship and active participation in democratic governance demonstrates courage, discipline and unwavering commitment to the public good.

“Your trajectory has been remarkable. From the halls of academia to international scholarship, from principled opposition to military dictatorship to dedicated service in democratic governance, your life reflects a man guided by conviction and a commitment to the greater good,” Okpebholo said.

He commended the professor for his invaluable contributions to Edo State and the nation, describing him as a role model whose achievements continue to inspire younger generations to pursue lives of excellence, integrity and meaningful service.

The governor also prayed for renewed strength, good health and divine grace for the celebrant, expressing confidence that his wealth of experience and wisdom would continue to benefit Edo State and Nigeria.

Okpebholo congratulated Professor Ihonvbere on attaining the milestone age of 70, reaffirming that Edo State remains proud of his enduring legacy and numerous accomplishments.

By Emmanuel Mihiingo Kaija

Africa’s future will not be determined by the storms it has endured but by how it responds to them. That is the central message of researcher and Pan-African civilisational systems architect Emmanuel Mihiingo Kaija, who argues that the continent’s greatest strength lies in its ability to transform adversity into opportunity, much like the eagle that soars above turbulent winds instead of fleeing from them.

Drawing on indigenous African wisdom and historical experience, Kaija contends that resilience has always been a defining characteristic of African societies. Across generations, nature served as a living classroom where communities learned lessons about leadership, survival, adaptation and renewal through oral traditions, proverbs and ecological knowledge.

“The eagle does not fear the storm because it understands that the winds capable of destroying weaker birds can also lift it to greater heights,” he argues. “Africa faces a similar choice in the twenty-first century.”

According to the scholar, the continent has weathered some of history’s most devastating storms, including the trans-Atlantic slave trade, colonialism, economic exploitation, debt burdens, political instability and persistent marginalisation within global knowledge systems. Yet, despite these challenges, Africa continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience.

Today, Africa possesses the world’s youngest population, rapidly expanding cities, abundant natural resources and rich cultural diversity—assets that Kaija believes position the continent for a new era of transformation if properly harnessed.

Rather than viewing current challenges such as climate change, technological disruption, rapid urbanisation and population growth as insurmountable obstacles, he says they should be seen as opportunities for innovation and development.

Central to his argument is the need to reclaim indigenous knowledge systems as legitimate foundations for modern governance, education, environmental management and economic development.

He notes that African societies historically thrived by adapting to changing conditions. Farmers diversified crops to withstand unpredictable weather, pastoralists developed sophisticated systems of seasonal migration, while elders transmitted practical knowledge through stories, songs and communal traditions.

“Indigenous knowledge was never static,” he explains. “It was a living science of adaptation developed over centuries.”

Kaija also points to Africa’s rich civilisational history as evidence of the continent’s long-standing capacity for innovation. He cites the achievements of the ancient Nile Valley civilisations, the renowned centres of learning in Timbuktu, the architectural sophistication of Great Zimbabwe and the flourishing trade networks of the Swahili Coast as examples of societies that converted environmental and economic challenges into opportunities for growth.

For Africa to achieve a genuine renaissance, however, Kaija insists that economic growth alone will not suffice.

“The continent must build intellectual confidence and reclaim epistemic sovereignty,” he argues, adding that development strategies should emerge from a creative blend of indigenous knowledge and contemporary global innovation rather than relying exclusively on imported models that often fail to reflect African realities.

He cautions against both uncritical dependence on foreign frameworks and romantic nostalgia for the past, advocating instead for an approach that honours ancestral wisdom while embracing modern scientific and technological advances.

The researcher believes that one of the eagle’s most powerful lessons is perspective.

“Storms appear overwhelming at lower altitudes but manageable from higher ground,” he says, suggesting that Africa’s leaders and institutions must adopt long-term strategic thinking rather than becoming consumed by immediate crises.

In his view, the continent’s demographic expansion, technological advancement and environmental challenges should be regarded not only as problems but also as powerful forces capable of propelling Africa to greater heights.

Ultimately, Kaija concludes that Africa’s destiny is not predetermined by its history.

“The real question is not whether storms exist,” he writes. “Storms are inevitable. The question is whether Africa chooses to define itself by vulnerability or by possibility.”

Like the eagle, he argues, nations rise not because conditions are perfect but because they learn to navigate adversity with wisdom, courage and vision.

As Africa seeks to shape its place in an increasingly complex global order, Kaija believes the continent’s greatest resource may be the indigenous wisdom that has enabled generations before it to survive, adapt and flourish.

For him, the lesson is clear: the eagle does not fear the storm because it knows the storm can carry it higher. Africa, he says, must now embrace that same philosophy as it pursues its long-awaited renaissance.

By Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele

A new political reality is emerging in Edo State, and it is one driven not merely by party structures or historical affiliations but by the impact of governance and the visible outcomes of leadership. The driver is Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State, who is being addressed as Akpakorescue with the motto, ‘A New Edo is Rising’.

His style is lending credence to the fact that there is no confusion in politics. This is because, like nature, it is constantly evolving. In every democratic society, political alliances are shaped, reshaped, and sometimes completely transformed by the forces of governance, public expectations, and the performance of leadership.

Even critics are united in their assessment that the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo has, within a short period, introduced reforms and development initiatives that are gradually redefining political calculations in the state. Beyond the traditional lines of political contestation, there is a growing recognition that effective governance has the power to create new partnerships, attract new supporters, and reshape old assumptions.

Recent developments, particularly the decision by some former political appointees of the immediate past administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki to openly identify with Governor Okpebholo’s development agenda, provide a clear indication that Edo’s political landscape is experiencing a significant shift.

The endorsement by members of the Edo Women Ambassadors for Renewed Hope Agenda (EWARHA) is not just another political gathering. It reflects a broader conversation about governance, performance, and the direction of the state. The group comprises professionals and individuals with experience in public administration, including former appointees who served in strategic positions under the previous government.

Their decision to support the Okpebholo administration is significant because it demonstrates that political engagement is no longer restricted to party loyalty alone. Increasingly, citizens and stakeholders are assessing governments based on what they deliver, the impact of their policies, and their ability to address the challenges facing the people.

For decades, politics in Nigeria has often been defined by strong personal interest and party identities. However, the events unfolding in Edo suggest a gradual movement towards a politics of performance, where achievements and results become critical factors in determining political support.

Governor Okpebholo, in less than two years, has placed infrastructure renewal, road rehabilitation, economic development, and improved connectivity at the center of his SHINE agenda. Across Edo State, ongoing road projects and interventions in different communities have become visible indicators of his government’s commitment to improving the lives of Edo people.

He has repeatedly emphasised that governance must go beyond promises and speeches. He says it must translate into projects and policies that directly affect the people. This philosophy is reflected in his administration’s approach to road construction, rural development, and opening up communities that were previously difficult to access.

The significance of these efforts is better understood when viewed from the perspective of communities that have long demanded government attention and lost their voices. For residents in rural areas, a motorable road is not simply an infrastructure project; it is a pathway to markets, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. It is a symbol of recognition and relevance.

This practical approach to governance is what is influencing political conversations across Edo state. When citizens see tangible improvements in their communities, political narratives begin to change. When they see promises and are translated and pledges being redeemed, they become more interested in leadership.

The support from former appointees and supporters of Mr. Obaseki also carries an important message. It suggests that governance achievements can transcend political boundaries. Individuals who once served in another administration can acknowledge progress when they see it, regardless of previous political differences.

This does not diminish the contributions of previous administrations. Rather, it reinforces a fundamental principle of democracy — that every government should be judged by its own record and its ability to improve on existing foundations.

For Governor Okpebholo, this emerging political realignment presents both an opportunity and a responsibility. The opportunity lies in the ability to build a broader coalition that includes professionals, community leaders, civil society groups, and citizens who are willing to support development beyond party lines.

The responsibility now is to sustain the momentum by committing to ensuring that the expectations created by these endorsements are matched with continuous delivery. Governor Okpebholo knows that political support built around performance requires consistent performance. He knows the game. Edo people who support a government because of its achievements will continue to demand more achievements.

The emergence of groups like EWARHA also highlights the increasing influence of professional women in Edo’s political space. Their decision to engage with governance demonstrates that political participation is expanding beyond traditional structures.

As women professionals, community leaders, and stakeholders, they are becoming important voices in determining the future direction of politics. Their involvement can and will strengthen democracy because it introduces broader perspectives into public discourse.

Beyond Edo State, the developments also reflect a wider trend in Nigerian politics. Across the country, voters are becoming more conscious of governance outcomes. While party identity remains important, citizens increasingly want to know what leaders are delivering and how policies affect their daily lives.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy, have also shaped conversations about development financing and government capacity. Governor Okpebholo has consistently stated that increased resources available to states through the President’s effort provide opportunities for state and local governments to embark on more development projects.

According to the governor, reforms are often challenging but necessary for long-term growth. His administration believes that prudent utilisation of available resources will help Edo State achieve sustainable development.

The political implications of these developments are clear. A government that delivers visible projects and maintains strong engagement with citizens naturally expands its support base. Political realignment often begins when people who were previously undecided or aligned elsewhere begin to reassess their positions based on new realities.

Governor Okpebholo’s emerging political strength is therefore not built solely on alliances but on the belief that governance can create confidence. As more stakeholders evaluate the administration through the lens of performance, Edo’s political landscape may continue to experience significant transformation.

The message from recent developments is clear: in Edo State, the politics of tomorrow may increasingly belong to leaders who can demonstrate results today. Governor Okpebholo’s reforms and development agenda are beginning to shape a new political conversation — one where performance, inclusion, and practical governance become the foundation for political realignment.

Dr. Ebojele has his PhD. in Public Administration and is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo.

Davidson Ogbebor

— Group Pledges Support for Tinubu, APC Ahead of 2027

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has received the backing of former political appointees who served under the immediate past administration of Mr. Godwin Obaseki, following their endorsement of his development initiatives across the state.

The former appointees, under the platform of Edo Women Ambassadors for Renewed Hope Agenda (EWARHA), visited the Government House in Benin City to express their support for the Okpebholo administration, pledging to work for the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election.

The group, made up of professionals from different fields, includes former Special Adviser to Governor Obaseki on Strategy, Policy, Projects and Performance Management, Mrs. Sera Esangbedo Ajose-Adeogun; former Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Oise Momoh Omorogbe; Queen Obaseki, a member of the former governor’s family, among others.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Hon. Mrs. Philomena Ihenyen said the over 78-member organisation was motivated by Governor Okpebholo’s achievements and his commitment to delivering impactful projects across Edo State.

She said the group comprises women from diverse professional backgrounds who are ready to support the administration and work with the APC to promote good governance.

“We are happy to meet with Your Excellency today. This group, EWARHA, will be inaugurated across the three senatorial districts of Edo State.

“These women are professionals from different fields and many are not card-carrying members of any political party. However, they have become interested in the APC because of the performance of Governor Okpebholo,” Ihenyen said.

She noted that the governor’s practical approach to governance and visible projects across the state encouraged the group to declare its support for his administration.

“For your sake, we are ready to carry the message and work with you to achieve results, fulfil your promises to Edo people and deliver President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

“Many of us are impressed by your developmental strides and practical governance style. The projects are visible across Edo State,” she added.

Ihenyen said the group had developed programmes to engage communities, professionals and residents across the state, while also reaching out to members of other political parties to support the APC.

Responding, Governor Okpebholo thanked the women for their support, assuring them that his administration would remain focused on delivering more development projects and improving the living conditions of Edo people.

The governor said his administration would not disappoint residents of the state, adding that ongoing infrastructure projects, particularly road construction, were aimed at opening up rural communities and improving connectivity.

“I am happy that today I can drive freely to access places like Temboga, Sapele, Gelegele, Church Road and other roads across the state. We are doing our best to ensure Edo roads are motorable, and work is ongoing in Gelegele and other areas,” Okpebholo said.

He said the economic reforms introduced by President Tinubu, especially the removal of fuel subsidy, had provided states with increased resources to embark on development projects.

“The removal of fuel subsidy has brought positive changes to Nigeria. Reforms are difficult, but they are necessary for growth and development. Gradually, we will get there as a nation,” the governor said.

Governor Okpebholo commended the group for identifying with his administration, assuring them that he would continue to work with stakeholders to move Edo State forward.

Signed: Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele
The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State.

The Director-General of the Edo State Tourism Agency, Mrs Vivian Elabor, has warned residents against dumping refuse in the state’s moats, stating that offenders will face stiff penalties.

Elabor issued the warning on Wednesday while addressing journalists in Benin City. She expressed concern that many of the moats are currently being used as refuse dumps, despite their historical and cultural significance.

According to her, the agency is committed to educating the public on the importance of preserving the moats, which were originally constructed by the ancestors to protect communities.

“Today, many people do not appreciate the value of the moats. The outside world understands the importance of preserving tourist sites, and we want our people to have the same understanding,” she said.

She emphasized that the agency is working tirelessly to restore and preserve the moats as part of Edo State’s rich cultural heritage.

“There will be stiff penalties for anyone caught disposing of waste in the moats. We must preserve our heritage and restore the legacy of the moats,” she added.

The Director-General noted that Edo State is blessed with numerous tourist attractions, with about 72 tourism sites spread across the state. She stressed that these sites remain largely underutilized and have great potential for economic growth.

Elabor further stated that the agency intends to use tourism as a tool for job creation and to boost the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

“Edo State must reduce its dependence on allocations from the centre. Tourism has a critical role to play in driving economic development, and we are determined to make Edo a leading tourism destination,” she said.

She revealed that the agency’s upcoming summit, themed ‘Edo Tourism: The New Frontier Exhibition and Fashion Show,’ is aimed at promoting the state’s rich culture and heritage.

Among the notable tourist attractions and cultural festivals highlighted were Igun Street, the Igue Festival, the Ososo Festival, the Ubiaja Festival, and the Amar Waterfall in Esanland.

Also speaking, the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mrs. Kushe Ojekhoa, announced that the 2026 Tourism Summit, Exhibition, and Fashion Show will hold from June 29 to June 30.

Ojekhoa added that winners of the fashion show will receive cash prizes, while all participants will be rewarded with participation fees to encourage creativity and support emerging talents.

AbujaThe Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday adjourned ruling on an application seeking the restoration of bail for activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, until June 30, even as the Department of State Services (DSS) defended its prosecution of the former presidential candidate and ordered an investigation into the courtroom incident that followed his remand.

Sowore, who was remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre on Monday, will remain in custody pending the court’s ruling on his application.

Justice Mohammed Umar fixed June 30 for ruling after hearing arguments from Sowore’s legal team in the trial brought against him by the DSS over alleged cybercrime and defamatory social media posts against President Bola Tinubu.

At Wednesday’s proceedings, Sowore’s counsel, R.O. Adakole, who appeared for lead counsel, Adeyinka Olumide-Fusika (SAN), urged the court to release the defendant to his lawyers pending the determination of the application seeking the restoration of his bail.

The defence argued that Sowore had consistently attended court proceedings since the commencement of the trial and had not jumped bail. It therefore asked the court to exercise its discretion in his favour and release him pending a ruling on the application.

Justice Umar, however, declined the request, saying he needed time to study the affidavits and processes filed by both parties before delivering a ruling. He subsequently adjourned the matter to June 30.

Sowore was remanded on June 22 after the court ordered that he be kept in custody pending the hearing of his application to set aside the revocation of his bail and the bench warrant earlier issued against him.

The court had on June 16 revoked Sowore’s bail after the prosecution, led by DSS counsel, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN), informed the court that the defendant failed to appear for trial. Justice Umar had also dismissed an application by Sowore seeking the judge’s recusal from the case on grounds of alleged bias.

Amid public reactions to Sowore’s remand and the drama that followed in court, the DSS on Tuesday issued a statement defending its actions and insisting that the issues leading to his remand arose from court proceedings rather than any action by the Service.

In the statement signed by its Deputy Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the DSS said it had noted concerns over the events at the Federal High Court in Abuja on June 22, especially the altercation involving Sowore, an official of the Nigerian Correctional Service and DSS operatives.

The agency disclosed that its Director-General had ordered an immediate investigation into the conduct of operatives involved in the incident.

“Of more concern is the scene depicting Sowore’s altercation with an official of the Custodial Centre and a seeming scuffle with operatives of the Service,” the statement said.

The DSS, however, maintained that Sowore’s trial stemmed from a post he made on his personal X and Facebook accounts on August 25, 2025, in which he allegedly described President Tinubu in disparaging terms.

According to the Service, rather than arrest Sowore immediately, it wrote him on September 4, 2025, demanding a retraction within one week. It said the move was in line with the policy of the current DSS leadership to resolve such matters without force before resorting to judicial interpretation.

The agency said its handling of the matter was consistent with its approach in other public disputes, including the case involving Prof. Pat Utomi’s “shadow government”, as well as disputes with media organisations over reports alleging invasions of the Lagos State House of Assembly and the National Assembly complex by DSS operatives.

The Service said that in those cases it sought legal redress or demanded public apologies, and withdrew charges after retractions were made.

On Sowore’s case, the DSS said it filed charges under Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, in suit No. FHC/ABJ/CR/481/2025, pursuant to SSS Instrument No. 1 of 1999 and the National Security Agencies Act of 1986.

It said the suit was filed to seek judicial interpretation on whether Sowore had the right to disparage and cyberbully the President through social media posts.

The Service also stressed that Sowore was initially granted bail on self-recognition without a surety at the commencement of the trial, and that it neither opposed the bail application nor arrested him in connection with the remand proceedings.

“From the foregoing, it is clear the issues that led to his bail revocation and subsequent remand were entirely premised on the court processes, as the Service neither arrested nor opposed his bail,” the statement added.

With the ruling on his bail application now fixed for June 30, Sowore is expected to remain in Kuje custody pending the court’s decision.