Edo Governor Okpebholo’s Alleged Loyalist Who Brutalised Female Worker Over ₦40,000 Salary Petitions Police to Arrest Victim as Officers Allegedly Shield Him

A political enforcer allegedly loyal to Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, identified as Adam Ehigiamusoe, popularly known as Shaba, has sparked outrage after petitioning the Nigeria Police to arrest a female employee he is accused of brutally assaulting over an unpaid ₦40,000 salary. The incident reportedly occurred on December 23, 2025, at Destiny O Hotel Suites in Benin City, which Shaba owns.

According to sources, the victim, Love Nehizena, also known as Bella, was beaten severely after demanding payment of her outstanding salary. Videos obtained by SaharaReporters showed her covered in blood with visible injuries, suggesting an assault described by witnesses as near-fatal. Despite the severity of the attack, Shaba was allegedly never arrested, reportedly boasting that his political connections made him untouchable.

Sources disclosed that the Edo State Commissioner of Police had earlier directed Shaba to report himself, but he allegedly ignored the order and instead, through his lawyer, submitted a petition to the Zone 5 Police Headquarters in Benin, accusing the victim. Shockingly, police action reportedly followed against Bella rather than the alleged attacker, with a senior officer, CSP Christopher Ereshe, inviting her for questioning, raising concerns of intimidation and victim persecution.

Witnesses expressed alarm that Shaba, whom police claimed they could not locate, was publicly seen days later distributing bags of rice in Benin City and freely engaging law enforcement. Bella, a single mother, narrated how she was beaten with wires, planks, and wooden objects, spat on, insulted for her poor background, and threatened with death if she reported the incident. Her phone was also destroyed during the assault.

Human rights advocates and residents have condemned the episode as a gross abuse of power, politicisation of policing, and a dangerous example of how poverty and political influence are weaponised to silence vulnerable citizens. The case has intensified public calls for accountability and justice amid fears that political protection may obstruct due process.

Hoodlums Allegedly Linked to Edo Governor Okpebholo’s Loyalist Tony Kabaka Burn Home of UK-Based Critic Albert Obazee on New Year’s Eve Amid Threats and Political Tension

Suspected hoodlums allegedly working for Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo’s loyalist, Tony Kabaka, have been accused of attacking and setting ablaze the home of UK-based Edo-born media critic, Albert Obazee, on New Year’s Eve in Benin City. Eyewitnesses said a large group of young men armed with petrol- and kerosene-filled bottles forced their way into the residence, smashed windows, destroyed household items, poured accelerants, and set the building on fire, leaving it severely damaged and uninhabitable.

Videos obtained by SaharaReporters showed the house engulfed in flames, with petrol bottles visible among the debris, suggesting a premeditated attack. An occupant of the compound said up to 30 armed youths stormed the premises, while others confirmed the incident anonymously, citing fear of intimidation.

The attack reportedly came days after Governor Okpebholo publicly threatened Obazee in a video interview, vowing that he would be imprisoned and barred from freely entering Nigeria. The governor admitted to closely monitoring Obazee’s social media posts, many of which criticised his administration.

Sources alleged that the arson followed Obazee’s social media claim that Tony Kabaka had been arrested by the EFCC over alleged misconduct, a claim Kabaka later confirmed by admitting he was invited and questioned by the commission. About 24 hours after the post, Obazee raised alarm that his multimillion-naira property had been vandalised and burned.

As of the time of reporting, neither the Edo State government nor the Nigeria Police Force had issued an official statement or announced arrests. Obazee said the attack has left him, his family, and associates living in fear, calling on authorities to urgently investigate the incident and ensure accountability.

You Will Go To Prison”: Edo Governor Okpebholo Threatens UK-Based Critic As Alleged APC-Linked Thugs Destroy Property In Benin City

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has sparked outrage after openly threatening UK-based media critic, Albert Obazee, vowing to jail him and bar him from entering Nigeria. The threats followed Obazee’s critical social media posts and coincided with allegations that thugs loyal to the governor, led by Edo APC Youth Leader Tony Kabaka, vandalised Obazee’s residence in Benin City. Witnesses reported armed men storming the property, leaving occupants terrified. Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has condemned the alleged state-backed intimidation and vowed to push for international visa bans against Edo politicians and enforcers accused of silencing critics.

Actor Dr Don Pedro Obaseki Abd¥cted, Str+pped, and H¥miliated while playing football

Nigerian actor and cultural advocate, Dr Don Pedro Obaseki, has recounted a harrowing experience of abd¥ction, a+sa¥lt, and public h¥miliation by a group of men who dragged him to the Oba of Benin Palace on Sunday in Benin City.

Speaking to African Independent Television (AIT), Obaseki said the incident occurred around 11:00–11:30 a.m. while playing football with Uwa All Stars at Uwa Primary School. He described how ass+ilants, some armed, suddenly invaded the ground, abd¥cted him, and forcibly dragged him through several streets including Igbesawan Street, Akpakpava Road, and Ring Road where he was stri+ped n@ked in public before being taken to the palace premises. Obaseki, a cousin of former Edo Governor Godwin Obaseki, said the att@ckers claimed they were sent by the palace but failed to show any form of identification when requested.

“I begged them to show me some form of ID, of course not. I was dragged, beaten severely, manhandled… and taken into the palace,” he explained. The actor said the ordeal left him tra¥matized, especially given his lifelong contributions to Benin culture.

Following the incident, he was taken to a police station along Oba Market Road, where the Edo State Commissioner of Police intervened, personally visiting him multiple times before ordering his release.

Obaseki revealed that the alleged offence stemmed from comments he made during a recent visit to London, where he wished “Edo gha to’kperewa” (“May Edo people live long and prosper”) instead of “Oba gha to’kpere” (“May the Oba live long and prosper”), which he was told constituted a serious cultural violation.

Public outrage has continued to grow, with calls for accountability and a full investigation into the actions of those involved in the as+a¥lt and abd¥ction. The incident occurs against the backdrop of long-standing tension between the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, and former Governor Godwin Obaseki, particularly over disputes surrounding cultural heritage, administration of Benin artifacts, and traditional authority in Edo State.

"They are kldnå99ing people to discourage Mr president, but he is resolute. somebody wants to win election, it's not fair. They did this to Goodluck Jonathan and succeeded, but we already know their trick " - Edo Governor, Monday Okpebholo on Insecvrity.

Edo Governor Okpebholo Sacks CPS Fred Itua, Appoints Patrick Ebojele as Replacement

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has dismissed his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, and appointed veteran journalist and academic Dr. Patrick Ebojele as the new CPS. The announcement, conveyed by the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, said the move aims to strengthen government communication, ensuring clearer and more transparent dissemination of policies and programmes. The government thanked Itua for his service, noting he will await a new assignment.

Edo Governor Okpebholo Sacks CPS Fred Itua, Appoints Patrick Ebojele as Replacement

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has dismissed Fred Itua as his Chief Press Secretary and appointed Akhere Patrick Ebojele as the new CPS. According to a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Itua will await reassignment, while Ebojele — a seasoned journalist and public administrator — will now lead the governor’s media team. The government says the appointment aims to strengthen communication and deepen engagement with the public. The governor also recently empowered 250 persons with disabilities with ₦200,000 each, reaffirming his commitment to inclusive governance.

WATCH: Edo Governor Paid People To Visit UK To Attack Me, I Will Not Fold My Hands While They Attack Me, Says Ex-Gov. Obaseki

"No Entry to Exco Meeting Without Wearing Tinubu’s ‘Asiwaju Cap’" — Edo Governor Okpebholo Warns Commissioners.

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern warning to newly appointed commissioners, declaring that anyone who fails to wear the ‘Asiwaju cap’ popularly known as the Tinubu cap will be barred from attending Executive Council meetings.

Speaking on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, during the swearing-in of 20 new commissioners and members of various boards, Okpebholo emphasized his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu, stressing that the event would not have been possible without the president’s support.

He recalled that in previous elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) struggled in Edo due to lack of backing from the presidency, but said that had changed under Tinubu’s leadership.

“Before we begin, let me say this could not have happened without a responsible President. We’ve had many elections here, and our major problem was that the President wasn’t with us,” he said.
“You see this cap I’m wearing? I will not forgive any commissioner who isn’t wearing it. If you come to the Exco in traditional attire without this Asiwaju cap, you’re going back,” he warned.

The governor also cautioned against corruption and misconduct, insisting his administration would not tolerate any behavior that could damage its reputation.

Okpebholo noted that the appointments were based on merit and reminded the appointees that their positions were a call to serve, not a political reward.

“Your nominations are not rewards or patronage but a call to serve the people of Edo State. Our administration is committed to practical governance that directly impacts lives.
We are focused on service delivery and tangible results, not propaganda,” he added.

Okpebholo sacks SSEB Chairman.

Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo has sacked Chairman of Edo State Senior Secondary Education Board, Dr. Maureen Ekhoragbon.

Reasons for her sack was not made known as of press time.

A statement by Secretary to the State Government, Ikhilor Musa, said Governor Okpebholo has appointed Dr. Rita Otibho Erewele as replacement.

The statement said Dr. Ekhoragbon has been relieved of her duties with immediate effect.

It described Dr. Erewele as an accomplished educationist and administrator with over two decades of progressive experience in Nigeria’s education sector.

The statement explained: “She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Planning, along with a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Benin.

President Tinubu Congratulates Edo Governor Okpebholo on 55th Birthday

President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on the occasion of his 55th birthday.

In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised Governor Okpebholo for his dedication to democracy and grassroots development, describing him as a leader committed to the welfare of his people.

Tinubu commended the governor’s efforts in promoting peace, unity, and sustainable growth across Edo State and encouraged him to continue the momentum of good governance.

“The President acknowledges the Governor’s contributions to fostering peace, unity, and sustainable development in the state and urges him to sustain the tempo,” the statement read.


The President also prayed for Governor Okpebholo’s continued health, wisdom, and strength, as he continues to serve Edo State and contribute to the nation’s progress.

Edo Governor Okpebholo Vows to Crush Cultism, Kidnapping as He Marks 55th Birthday

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to eradicate cultism and kidnapping in the state, stressing that his government is already achieving significant results in the fight against insecurity.

Speaking at a special thanksgiving service held at the Government House Chapel, Benin City, to celebrate his 55th birthday, the governor—represented by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua—recalled the violent cult clash that claimed over 20 lives just two days after he assumed office in November 2024.

“News of that tragedy reached me in Ondo barely two days after I assumed office. Right there, I vowed to fight cultism, kidnapping, and other criminal activities to a standstill. Nine months on, by God’s grace and with the support of Edo people, we are winning that war,” Okpebholo declared.

The governor noted that his administration came into power during a turbulent period but has since restored stability and renewed public confidence in governance.

“This is a government that makes promises and keeps them. Whether it is security, roads, schools, or healthcare, we are delivering for the people of Edo State,” he said.

The thanksgiving service drew dignitaries including government officials, religious leaders, and advisers, many of whom praised Okpebholo’s leadership style.

Paul Ezenwa, Special Adviser on Electronic Media, commended the governor’s performance, urging Edo people to support him with prayers.

Dr. Andrew Iyamu, Special Adviser on Health, noted that his appointment was purely on merit, adding that massive infrastructural projects were ongoing across the state.

Godswill Inegbe, Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy, described the governor as a humble, Christian leader whose faith guides his governance.

Religious leaders also lauded the governor’s bold stand against cultism. Rev. Ezele Frank said:

“This is the first time any governor will stick out his neck to confront cultism directly. His determination is saving lives, healing communities, and uniting our people.”


Similarly, Apostle Sule Farade, Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, described Okpebholo’s emergence as divinely ordained, noting that his leadership would bring peace and prosperity to Edo State.

The event concluded with prayers for the governor’s health, wisdom, and strength, as well as petitions for continued peace in the state.

“2.5 Million Votes for Tinubu!” — Edo Governor Okpebholo Makes Bold Pledge

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has set the political stage abuzz with a daring promise — 2.5 million votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the next elections.

Speaking at a rally in Benin City, Okpebholo likened Tinubu’s leadership to that of the United States, declaring:
“If Nigeria had two presidents like Tinubu, we would be like America.”

The Governor hailed Tinubu’s infrastructural strides, economic reforms, and unity-driven policies, calling them the keys to Nigeria’s future stability and growth. He emphasized his loyalty to the President’s vision, describing himself as “your son” to Edo people and a devoted ally to the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Analysts say the pledge is among the largest political endorsements in recent Nigerian history, positioning Edo as a critical battleground for upcoming elections. While supporters see it as a show of political strength, critics question its feasibility — but one thing is clear: Okpebholo has thrown his weight firmly behind Tinubu.


#Okpebholo #Tinubu #EdoState #RenewedHope #NigeriaPolitics #PoliticalPledge #Leadership

“Tinubu Fixed a Failed Economy” — Edo Governor Praises President’s Bold Reforms


Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with rescuing Nigeria from a failed economy inherited from past administrations.

Speaking during the APC campaign rally in Esan Central LGA ahead of the August 16 Edo Central Senatorial By-election, Okpebholo lauded Tinubu’s policies for stabilizing the nation’s finances within just 26 months in office.

The governor highlighted the President’s direct support, including the approval of ₦130 billion for the Ekpoma–Auchi–Okpella Road — a feat he claims the PDP could not achieve in eight years. He assured Edo residents of massive road construction once the rains subside, citing Tinubu’s promise of reimbursement.

The rally drew top APC leaders, including Secretary to the State Government Umar Musa Ikhilor, Edo Central Senatorial Leader Gen. Cecil Isekhaigbe (rtd), and other party stakeholders.

“Tinubu met a bad situation, but he has worked hard to fix it. Edo people should support him — and me — in 2027,” Okpebholo declared.

#TinubuEconomy #EdoPolitics #Okpebholo #RenewedHope #APC #NigeriaNews #EconomicReform

Edo Governor Okpebholo Dismisses Rift Rumours, Hails Deputy Idahosa as Trusted Partner

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has debunked claims of a rift between him and his Deputy, Dennis Idahosa, stressing that they enjoy a strong working relationship built on mutual trust and constant consultation.

Speaking during a church thanksgiving service in Benin City to celebrate Idahosa’s 45th birthday, Okpebholo revealed that he had prophesied Idahosa would one day be his deputy during their first-ever meeting at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja.

> “I have absolute confidence in him. We work very closely and take every decision together. Before we execute anything, there’s always an inside discussion. He reminds me where we’re coming from, and I see him as a true partner,” the governor said, adding that he believes God will elevate Idahosa to even greater heights.


In his remarks, Idahosa reflected on his humble beginnings, sharing how he lost his father at the age of six and faced numerous struggles before finding his footing in life. He attributed his political rise — including his appointment as Commissioner at just 34 years old — to the grace of God.

#EdoState #GovernorOkpebholo #DennisIdahosa #PoliticalPartnership #Leadership #Governance

Edo Governor Okpebholo Unveils Four New Commissioner Nominees — See Full Profiles!

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has officially approved four fresh commissioner nominees set to join the State Executive Council, marking a strategic move to strengthen governance and policy delivery in the state.

The nominees, revealed in a statement by Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, are:
Nosa Adams
Yakubu Oshiorenua Musa
Felix Akhabue
Prof. Omorodion Ignatius Ikponmwosa


Nosa Adams – A seasoned legal practitioner and PDP stalwart. Former PDP Public Secretary, Egor LGA Chairman, Special Adviser, and GM of Edo Rubber Estates. He’s a member of the NBA and Principal Partner at Nosa Adams & Co.

Yakubu Oshiorenua Musa – Former Etsako West LGA Chairman with academic credentials in Agriculture and Business Administration.

Felix Akhabue – Former Esan West LGA Chairman, ex-Commissioner under Governor Obaseki, former ALGON National President, and a chartered accountant with notable political and business influence.

Prof. Omorodion Ikponmwosa – A top academic in Industrial and Production Engineering with a PhD in Automation & Control. He brings strong engineering expertise and research leadership.

These appointments reflect Governor Okpebholo’s intent to bring a wealth of experience and strategic capacity to Edo’s governance.


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#EdoState #GovernorOkpebholo #EdoPolitics #CommissionerNominees #LeadershipInAction

Ighalo's estranged wife, Sonia, addresses those criticizing Edo Governor for telling Peter Obi not to enter his state without his permission.

LP Senators Slam Edo Governor Over Threat to Peter Obi, Demand Apology

Labour Party (LP) senators have condemned Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo over his recent statement warning Peter Obi not to visit the state without prior security clearance.

In a strongly worded joint statement, Senators Victor Umeh, Ireti Kingibe, Ezea Okey, and Tony Nwoye described the governor’s comments as “executive rascality” and a clear abuse of office.

They demanded a public apology, saying Okpebholo’s remarks violated Peter Obi’s constitutional rights, particularly his freedom of movement under Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution.

“Mr Peter Obi is a Nigerian citizen. His right to move freely within the country is protected by law and should not be threatened by executive lawlessness,” the senators stated.

They also urged the Inspector General of Police and the DSS to take note of what they called a direct threat to Obi’s safety and constitutional rights.

Governor Okpebholo had accused Obi of causing unrest during a past visit to Edo and insisted that future visits must be approved for security reasons — a claim that has sparked widespread backlash.

Odinkalu Knocks Edo Governor Okpebholo For Threatening Peter Obi Over Planned Visit To State Sahara Reporters

JUST IN: Supreme Court to decide Edo governorship election tomorrow.

The Supreme Court will tomorrow, July 2, 2025, hear the high-stakes appeal in the Edo State governorship election dispute between Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The case, which has drawn national attention, follows a series of lower court decisions that affirmed Okpebholo’s victory in the September 21, 2024 poll.

INEC had declared Okpebholo the winner of the election with 291,667 votes, ahead of Ighodalo, who polled 247,274 votes.

Ighodalo challenged the outcome at the election petition tribunal, alleging overvoting and substantial non-compliance with the Electoral Act.

However, the tribunal dismissed the petition in January 2025 for lack of credible evidence, citing the absence of key witnesses and deficiencies in documentation.

On May 29, 2025, the Court of Appeal in Abuja upheld the tribunal’s verdict, criticising the PDP candidate’s legal team for failing to link their claims to specific polling units and relying on “dumped documents”.

The court also ordered the removal of improperly tendered BVAS machines from the record.

Undeterred, Ighodalo approached the Supreme Court, insisting that both lower courts failed to address major concerns, including alleged tampering with election forms, missing serial numbers on Form EC 25B, and irregular collation records that he claims affected the integrity of the result.

All eyes are now on the seven-man panel of justices expected to determine what could become a landmark ruling in Nigeria’s electoral jurisprudence.