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Category: Edo Update

  • Security Personnel Surround Edo Govt House Over Shaibu’s Resumption

    Nigeria security agencies have surrounded the Edo State Government House following reports that the Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, would resume office today (Monday).

     

    The security personnel include policemen, Department of State Services (DSS) officials and personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), with many Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC) to prevent the breakdown of law and order.

     

    They prevented vehicles into Government House from the first gate with staff, journalists, visitors, and others politely asked to trek, leaving their cars behind.

     

    This is as the Edo Deputy Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebomhiana Musa, in a statement, denied any plan to invade the Osadebe House.

     

    Musa said Shaibu is a peace-loving man who firmly believes in the rule of law. He called on Obaseki to obey court order that affirmed Shaibu as the Deputy Governor of Edo State.

     

    “Our attention has been drawn to the effect that Edo State Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu is making plans to invade the Government House on Monday, September 30, 2024, in a bid to enforce two different court judgements, ordering his reinstatement.

     

    “We want to put it clearly here that, unlike Governor Godwin Obaseki, Philip Shaibu is a peace-loving man, who firmly believes in the rule of law and would not want to shed innocent blood, for whatever reason.

     

    “As it is today, in eyes of the law and in the eyes of the good people of Edo State, indeed, Nigerians, Philip Shaibu is the de jure and de facto Deputy Governor of Edo State. We need not fight or struggle for that which God has given us.

     

    “Obaseki and his co-travellers should accept the fact that the good people of Edo State have spoken, and his godson, Asue Ighodalo, has been roundly rejected at the governorship election of September 21, 2024. Sadly, this reality is yet to dawn on them.

     

    “Crusoe Osagie (Special Adviser to Edo Governor on Media Projects), the purveyor of the fake news, is well known as an alarmist and propagandist who thrives on rumours and beer parlour gossips, with little or no respect for the ethics of our cherished profession, Journalism. So, he has to be ignored,” Musa said.

     

  • Okpeboholo, APC Govs create scene, kneeling to greet Tinubu at the Villa

    Okpeboholo, APC Govs create scene, kneeling to greet Tinubu at the Villa

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu received  the Edo state governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo, at the State House, Abuja.
    Okpebholo is accompanied by the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, and some of the governors elected on the platform of the party.
    When President Tinubu reached for a handshake with Okpebholo, the Edo Governor-elect fell to his knees to receive the President’s stretched arm.
    Edo-Governor-Elect-Okpebolo kneels before President Tinubu
    Among the governors spotted in the entourage are the chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq (Kwara), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Usman Ododo (Kogi), and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun).
    Also on the entourage is the Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Adams Oshiomhole, and deputy governor, Philip Shaibu.
    It would be recalled that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Okpebholo the APC winner of last Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State.
  • #EDODECIDES2024: ‘There Are More APC In PDP NWC’ – Dino Melaye

    #EDODECIDES2024: ‘There Are More APC In PDP NWC’ – Dino Melaye

    The dust and angst generated by the outcome of the September 21, 2024 may take some time to abate, especially amongst leading members of the opposition parties and the mass of their supporters.
    One such member is the former Senator representing Kogi West, Dino Melaye, who has alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) has infiltrated the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), under the leadership of acting National Chairman, Umar Damagun.
    Melaye made this statement in response to the recently concluded Edo State governorship election.
    Taking to the social media platform X, the former lawmaker expressed concern about the outcome of the election and the direction in which the PDP is heading under Damagun’s leadership.
    He remarked, “With the destroyer called Damagun on the wheels, PDP is in the departure lounge waiting for the boarding pass. Edo experience will be a joke, there are more APC in the NWC than PDP.”
    His comments follow the defeat of the PDP’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, in the Edo State governorship race.
    Ighodalo secured 247,274 votes but was ultimately defeated by the APC’s Monday Okpebholo, who garnered 291,667 votes.
    The results were declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), with Professor Faruk Adamu Kuta serving as the Returning Officer.
  • ‘I Will Not Abandon You’ – Ighodalo Thanks His Supporters

    ‘I Will Not Abandon You’ – Ighodalo Thanks His Supporters

    The 2024 Edo governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Asue Ighodalo, has promised never to abandon his supporters.
    Asue Ighodalo described September 21 election as the darkest day in the political history of the state. He added that it was marked by brazen theft of the mandate given to him by the people of the state.
    In a video, on Monday, Ighodalo said, “To all our beloved supporters, we thank you for believing in this vision, for your countless hours of dedication and for every conversation you’ve had with people about this course. Together we ran a great campaign and your overwhelming support was evident in the ballots before our progress was unjustly halted on September 21st 2024 by people who do not mean well for you or for our state.
    “That day will forever be etched in our history as one of our darkest moments marked by the brazen theft of our mandate and the shameful subversion of the will of the people. Yet, in the face of this challenge, we must not be discouraged.
    “The illusory triumph of evil over good is only temporary. Our journey towards a prosperous Edo state does not end here. It is just beginning. Let us remain engaged, committed, and united in our collective resolve to create a pathway for prosperity for all in Edo State. You did not abandon me during our campaign and I promise you by the grace of God Almighty that as we face a daunting and uncertain future together, I will not abandon you.”
    On Tuesday, in a text statement on his X handle, he added, “Thank you, Edo. Thank you for the love and massive support you have shown me throughout this journey.
    “Thank you for braving the rains, threats of violence, harassments and intimidation to vote for us massively last Saturday 21st September 2024.
    “Our journey doesn’t end here; it continues in our commitment and collective resolve to recover our mandate and create a Pathway to Prosperity for All in Edo State.”

  • Edo election ‘sold to the highest bidder,’ says Labour Party candidate Olumide Akpata

    Former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the September 21, 2024, Edo State governorship election, Mr. Olumide Akpata, has dismissed its outcome, describing it as a transaction where victory was awarded to the highest bidder.
    Akpata made the remarks following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) declaration of Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner.
    “We remain steadfast in our commitment to building a democracy that works for all, not just the highest bidder. We continue to envision an Edo State, and a Nigeria, where ideas triumph over Naira, where the collective will of the people shapes our future,” Akpata said.
    Akpata, who finished third in the election with 22,763 votes, expressed the need for comprehensive electoral reform.
    He advocated for technology to establish systems that make vote-buying impossible, emphasizing the importance of addressing the socio-economic conditions that drive citizens to sell their votes.
    “We must also address the root causes that make our people susceptible to vote-selling by creating economic opportunities, improving education, and building a society where citizens do not feel compelled to mortgage their future for immediate gains,” Akpata added.
    He lamented that the Edo election exposed the harsh reality that politics in the state, and across Nigeria, is often dominated by those with the deepest pockets and the most extensive networks of influence, rather than by ideologies or the will of the people.
    Condemning the widespread vote-buying, Akpata pointed to the long-term damage the practices have inflicted on Edo’s economy over the past 25 years, fostering an environment where democratic values are routinely undermined.
    He, however, said despite the election’s outcome, the Labour Party remains committed to upholding the sanctity of the ballot and ensuring that the people’s right to freely choose their leaders is preserved.
  • #EdoDecides2024: State REC Rates INEC’s Performance 92%

    #EdoDecides2024: State REC Rates INEC’s Performance 92%

    The Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Anugbum Onuoha has rated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) 92% in its performance so far, in the ongoing election process.

     

    Addressing the media during a post-election briefing in Benin City, the REC commended INEC staff, security agencies, and the electorate for their roles in ensuring a largely peaceful and orderly voting process.
    He highlighted that the commission had worked diligently to ensure the smooth conduct of the polls, attributing the high performance to several factors including enhanced staff training, timely deployment of election materials, and the functionality of the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).

     

    “We are pleased that this election, in terms of logistics, voter management, and overall coordination, has been one of the best in recent times. Materials were delivered to most polling units on time, and the accreditation process went seamlessly in over 90% of the locations,” the REC stated.

     

    However, Dr. Onuoha acknowledged that there were still some minor hitches, particularly with late arrival of materials in a few remote areas due to bad roads. He reassured the public that the commission has taken note of these issues and is working towards making improvements in future elections.

     

    The REC also praised Edo State voters for their peaceful conduct during the voting process, urging continued engagement in the political process.
    He emphasized that the collaboration between INEC and security agencies was instrumental in ensuring a secure environment for voting, with no major security incidents reported throughout the state.

     

    While the 92% performance rating marks a significant success for INEC, Dr. Onuoha reiterated the commission’s commitment to achieving even higher standards in future elections, as part of its ongoing reforms to enhance electoral transparency and credibility in Nigeria.

     

    Collation of Results

    From results collated so far, within Benin city, PDP leading, APC following while LP comes 3rd

  • Edo 2024 Guber Update: Voting Begins Amid Tight Security

    Edo 2024 Guber Update: Voting Begins Amid Tight Security

    The 2024 governorship election in Edo State has officially commenced, marked by a significant security presence and varying reports regarding the arrival of INEC officials and voter turnout across different polling units.

     

    INEC Officials Arrive Late at Some Polling Units

    At 7:43 a.m., INEC officials arrived at Unit 18, Oghede Ward 10, located at Oghede Secondary School on Ekenhuan Road in Egor Local Government Area. Despite the officials’ timely arrival, only a small number of voters were present at the polling unit.

     

    In stark contrast, by 8:39 a.m., Units 7 to 10 in Ward 1 at Ezoti Primary School, Oredo Local Government Area, reported a large turnout of voters. However, INEC officials had not yet arrived. Security operatives were on-site to maintain order and ensure the safety of the gathering electorate.

     

    Smooth Voting Process Amid Low Turnout

    By 8:51 a.m., voting commenced at Units 19 to 28, Ward 4, Emokpae Primary School in Oredo LGA, where the electoral process was proceeding smoothly. However, at Unit 41, Ward 4, located along Idahosa Lane on Mission Road, INEC officials were present but reported no voters at the polling unit. Staff expressed concerns regarding the absence of security personnel at this location.

     

    Reports from Unit 36, Ward 4 at Evbiemwen indicated that by 9:11 a.m., both INEC officials and security operatives were present, yet voters had not yet arrived. A similar situation was observed at Unit 32, Ward 4, on Ero Street, Wire Road in Oredo LGA, where voting was ongoing under the watchful eye of security personnel, although turnout remained modest.

     

    Continued Presence of Security Operatives

    By 9:30 a.m., INEC officials finally arrived at Unit 31, Ward 4, Azama Street on Wire Road in Oredo LGA. While security operatives maintained law and order throughout the polling units visited, voter turnout across these locations remained low.

     

    Across all polling units monitored, there was a heavy presence of security operatives both within and around the voting areas, ensuring that the election process proceeded in an orderly and peaceful manner as citizens exercised their democratic rights.

     

    There have also been few incidents of alleged vote buying by some party agents.

     

    As the day progresses, further updates on voter turnout and election proceedings are anticipated.

     

    Security Threats

    Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Asue Ighodalo has raised an alarm over security threats during the ongoing gubernatorial elections in Edo State.

    He alleged that the police had arrested a party member in Ward 8 Unit 3.

    “In Uromi unit 3, one of our supporters was arrested there about an hour ago by men in mufti carrying guns. Nobody should carry guns into a polling unit. That is against the law. But you just see people behaving indiscriminately, oppressing and trying to intimidate our folks,” he said.

  • Edo poll: IGP orders restriction of movement

    Edo poll: IGP orders restriction of movement

    In the usual tradition that never deters violence, the Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, has directed the restriction of movement in Edo State ahead of the governorship election slated for Saturday, September 21, 2024.

     

    The police boss said this is to ensure adequate measures are put in place for peaceful, transparent and credible elections.

     

    At least 17 political parties will be participating in the election, with the major parties being the All Progressives Congress, the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party.

     

    In a statement on Friday, the Force spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi said the IG ordered the restriction of all vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation from 6 am to 6 pm on the election day.

     

    He added that those on essential duties, including accredited media, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders, are exempted from the order.

     

    Adejobi said, “The Inspector-General of Police has announced comprehensive security measures to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process during the upcoming Edo off-cycle election scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024.

     

    “In preparation for the election, the IGP has ordered the restriction of all vehicular movement on roads, waterways, and other forms of transportation from 6 am to 6 pm on the election day. Exceptions will be made for essential services, including accredited media, electoral officials, ambulances, and emergency responders.

     

    “To maintain the integrity of the electoral process, the IGP has implemented a ban on all security aides and escorts accompanying VIPs to polling booths and collation centres. Unauthorised security personnel and quasi-security outfits are prohibited from operating during the election, and the use of sirens by unauthorized vehicles is strictly forbidden to ensure a calm environment for voters.”

     

    Adejobi also said the IG directed that special attention should be accorded to People With Disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers and old people, among others.

     

    He said, “Furthermore, the IG has mandated that special attention be afforded to individuals with disabilities, pregnant women, nursing mothers, aged, and those with mobility challenges, ensuring that polling stations in both urban and rural settings are accessible to all,” adding that the IG sternly warned residents against pranking the emergency lines released by the police to report cases of emergencies during the election.

     

    Adejobi said, “The Inspector-General of Police, through the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) for Edo Gubernatorial Election, DIG Frank Emeka Mba, mni, has appealed to citizens to refrain from making prank calls to control room and designated help numbers, highlighting that text messages are more effective for operational purposes.

     

    “The designated election lines for inquiries and reporting are DIG Election DIG Frank Mba, 07025000383 and AIG Election AIG Benneth Igwe, 09085000029, while the general control room numbers are 08077773721 and 08037646272. The already activated joint control room is manned by police and relevant agencies engaged in the electoral process.”

     

    Adejobi said Egbetokun urged the residents to report suspicious and other activities that could affect the integrity of the poll.

     

    He said, “Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or incidents that may jeopardize the integrity of the electoral process or cause disorderliness in any part of the state.

     

    “The Inspector-General of Police underscores the necessity of adhering to these directives to avert any undue interference and intimidation during the election. Political parties, candidates, and their supporters are urged to conduct themselves responsibly and in compliance with electoral laws, as any violations or attempts to disrupt the electoral process will be met with the full extent of the law.

     

    “The IGP reaffirms the dedication of the Nigeria Police Force to promoting a safe and democratic environment. Through collaborative efforts, we can guarantee that the forthcoming elections in Edo, specifically and the future, are held fairly and peacefully.”

     

     

  • Edo Election: Why NPF Banned Edo Security Network

    Edo Election: Why NPF Banned Edo Security Network

    Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Frank Mba, has said the ban on Edo State Security Network from participating in the September 21 governorship election, was in line with the Electoral Act.

     

    Frank Mba said the Electoral Act did not recognize vigilante groups and other non-conventional security outfits during election exercises.

     

    Mba, who stated this on Sunday, during Edo Election Security Townhall, explained that about 35,000 policemen have been deployed to Edo State for the Saturday election.

     

    He said, “By law, by convention and by practice vigilantes and non-conventional security outfits are never part of the electoral process and you can fact-check this.

     

    “Look at all our elections, our positions have never changed, we have never altered, we’ve not done anything, the Inspector General Police has not said anything or done anything that is out of the books and politicians knew this.

     

    “But guess what? Politicians will always be politicians. In the last general election whether you are looking at the southeast or whether you are looking at the southwest look through the entire length and breadth of the country, we expressly and in very strong terms and we walked our talk in making sure that non-conventional security outfits did not or are not allowed to participate in the electoral process.”

     

    Responding to a question if policemen would arrest Edo Security Network personnel if found around polling stations, he answered: “Exactly, because as a matter of fact that would be a breach of the Electoral Act. I mean under the Electoral Act, the law clearly states the agencies that can participate in policing the electoral space.”

     

    Mba explained that except for Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deputy, policemen attached to other politicians in the state will be withdrawn.

     

    “We will clearly demobilize, and deactivate orderlies and VIP protection personnel 48 hours before the election but naturally, the governor and deputy governor will keep personal security but these personnel are not allowed to accompany them to the electoral ground,” he added.

     

  • Police to deploy 35,000 personnel for Edo election

    Police to deploy 35,000 personnel for Edo election

    Furthering the usual routine which positive outcome remains to be seen, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, announced on Wednesday that 35,000 police officers will be deployed across Edo State for the September 21 governorship election.

    Additionally, 8,000 personnel from sister security agencies, including the armed forces and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), will be mobilized to support the police.

    He also confirmed that security aides assigned to VIPs will be withdrawn to ensure neutrality and security.

    Egbetokun stated this at the stakeholders meeting as part of activities ahead of the election organized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) where its chairman, Professor Mamhud Yakubu announced that former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar was already in town presiding over the signing of the peace pact between contending parties and their candidates on Thursday.

    The event had the representatives of the 17 participating political parties, the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), representatives of the palace of the Oba of Benin, civil society groups and others.

    In his remarks, Egbetokun also said the suspension of the activities of quasi-security organizations like the Edo State Security Network (ESSN) and others set up by the state government to check insecurity remain suspended and that they have no role to play on the day of election.

    He said security aides attached to VIPs would also be withdrawn even as he reeled out the various election offences and warned that anyone caught against them would be treated according to the law.

    According to him, “It is the responsibility of all stakeholders to ensure that elections take place and trhe security of all is the responsibility of the police and it will be supported by other security agencies to ensure safety. We understand the importance of our role in this election and we will ensure that everything is done in compliance with that.

    “We will deploy sufficient personnel for the election. For the Edo state governorship election, we will deploy 35,000 personnel, there will be another 8,000 from other security agencies to complement us. We have undertaken several measures including a tour of hot spots, engaging stakeholders and operational visits and we will continuously engage all.”

    He said all entry and exit points in the state would manned while movements would be restricted between 6 am and 6 pm and urged the political leaders to warn their members against any form of violence.