No Asiwaju Cap, No Exco’ – Edo APC Move To Suspend Commissioners Over Loyalty To Tinubu.

The Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jarrett Tenebe, has issued a stern warning that any commissioner who flouts Governor Monday Okpebholo’s directive to wear the ‘Asiwaju cap’ to State Executive Council meetings will face suspension from the party.

Governor Okpebholo had, on October 14, while swearing in newly cleared commissioners and inaugurating boards and commissions, directed all cabinet members to demonstrate loyalty to President Bola Tinubu by appearing in branded party outfits, including the symbolic ‘Asiwaju cap’.

Addressing reporters on the matter, Tenebe described disobedience to the governor’s order as a serious act of defiance against party authority and discipline.

“If you refuse to wear the cap as the governor has directed, we will suspend you. That is indiscipline and insubordination,” he said firmly.

The APC chairman maintained that the governor’s instruction was not optional but a clear demonstration of loyalty to both the party and its leader, President Tinubu.

Edo APC’s 3.5 Million Votes Pledge
Tenebe linked the cap directive to a broader political strategy by the state chapter of the APC to guarantee massive electoral support for President Tinubu.

“We are doing this because we have made a promise that 3.5 million votes are guaranteed for President Bola Tinubu. Everybody has keyed into achieving that target,” he declared.

According to him, party loyalty cannot be compromised, particularly for those who benefited from appointments through the APC.

Edo: Health workers call off 7-day warning strike as Gov Okpebholo succumbs to demands.

The Edo State Government has succumbed to the demands of the State Council of the Medical and Health Workers Union, MHWUN, for improved conditions of service and enhanced welfare packages for its members.

The union had on Friday, 17 October 2025, commenced a seven-day warning strike to press home its demands for improved working conditions and welfare packages for members.

A statement signed by Comrade Ogbeide Omon Osagie, State Chairman and Comrade Barivure Kpakol, Secretary, respectively, dated October 16, 2025, stated that the warning strike follows the expiration of the 14-day notice earlier issued to the state government.

The succumbed to the demands of the health workers, following an intense meeting between the state government representatives, the State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and the leadership of MHWUN on October 19, 2025.

At the meeting, the state government agreed to fulfil all the demands of the union, just as the union had also agreed to call off the warning strike.

The State Government representatives at the meeting are Anthony Okungbowa, Head of Service, Edo State, Godwin Esheishi, Commissioner for Labour and Productivity and Dr Cyril Oshiomhole, Commissioner for Health.

Bernard Egwuakhide Joman, chairman, NLC in the state represented the organised labour, Ogbeide Omon Osagie, state chairman of MHWUN while

Comrade Oisamaiye Godwin represented the State Joint Negotiating Council, JNC.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has officially absorbed over 5,000 contract teachers into the state’s Ministry of Education as permanent staff members.

"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.

He will tell us where he got money to buy 14,000 hectares of land, Gov Okpebholo to 17 years old boy.

Monday Okpebholo, Edo state governor has on the 10th of October, 2025 ordered a probe into a portion of land purchased by alleged 17 years old boy in the state.

Governor Okpebholo, who was marvel at the numbers of hectares owned by the teenager, directed an investigation team to look into the source of the land purchase and it's ownership certificate, claiming a 17 years old is not capable of owing a 14,000 hectares of land on his name.

Since the pronouncement of the order, it has caused controversy and debate between the people of Nigeria opposing the individual or organization that sold such an incredible amount of land for a teenager, while others are accusing the governor of using the opportunity to delay the signing of C of O.

In the directive given by the governor, he ordered that his source of income should be investigated amid land grabbing and money laundering, he said in his word "A 17 years old boy bought 14,000 hectares of land and paid in full, he must tell us the source of his income. Until then, the signing of Certificate of Occupancy will be placed on hold till the probing team are done with their investigation".

Edo Gov Okpebholo, Suspends Land Approvals Across the State Over 17-Year-Old Boy’s Alleged Acquisition of 14,000 Hectares

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has suspended the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy following the discovery that a 17-year-old allegedly owns about 14,000 hectares of land in the state.

The governor said an investigation is underway to determine how the teenager acquired such an extensive property and to verify the source of their wealth. He assured that the signing of C-of-Os would resume once the probe is concluded, adding that all documents have already been printed.

Okpebholo also criticized the previous administration under Godwin Obaseki for allegedly spending ₦8 billion on software consultancy, describing it as a waste of public funds. He disclosed that his government has now developed its own software, which is being efficiently managed by trained state workers instead of external consultants.

Reverse decision to hand over public schools to missionaries – NUT tells Okpebholo.

The Edo State chapter of the Nigerian Union of Teachers, NUT, on Sunday urged Governor Monday Okpebholo to rescind his decision to hand over public schools to Catholic missionaries.

The NUT said the development may bring about inequalities, inaccessible to marginalized group

The state chairman of the union, Bernard Gbenga Ajobiewe, made the demand in his speech at the celebration of the 2025 World Teachers’ Day in Benin City.

The 2025 World Teachers’ Day has the theme, ‘Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession’.

Ajobiewe appealed to the government to take a second look into the issue.

He opined that the handing over of schools to missionary organisations may deprive marginalized groups the opportunity to benefit from religious affiliate institutions.

“As a union, we are committed to advocating for the right, welfare of our people at the same time development of education in our State.

“Sir, we strongly appeal to you to take a second look into the issue of handing over schools to Missionaries organisations in the State. As a union, we are not in support of this agenda,” he said.

PDP questions Okpebholo’s claim of $250m investment deal.

The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has asked Governor Monday Okpebholo to provide detailed explanations on the $250m agreement recently signed with the European African Chamber of Commerce and Industries.

In a statement on Sunday, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Daniel Osa-Ogbegie, said the governor’s announcement had “become a source of embarrassment to Edo people,” adding that the opposition party would no longer allow opacity in the state’s fiscal dealings.

The Edo State Government had on September 25, 2025, announced that the governor signed the $250m agreement during the Edo State Global Investment Summit in Glasgow, Scotland.

According to the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the deal with EuroAfrica CCI—an umbrella body of chambers of commerce in 98 countries—was a framework for strategic investment in Edo over the next three to five years.

But the PDP said the administration must come clean on the specifics. Osa-Ogbegie declared:

“We will demand clarity on the governor’s claim of a $250m investment from Glasgow that has become a source of embarrassment to Edo people at the moment. We will question the abandonment of projects initiated under the administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki, and we will shine light on fiscal management practices that appear to ignore transparency and responsibility.”

The party stressed that while it respected constituted authority, its allegiance remained with Edo people.

“Where government policies uplift people, we will support them. But if governance becomes oppressive, wasteful, or deceptive, we will stand with the people,” the spokesperson said.

Edo Gov Okpebholo Approves ₦914m Compensation for Demolished APC Youth Leader’s Hotel.

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has approved the payment of ₦914 million as compensation for the demolition of the hotel belonging to the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Youth Leader, Mr. Tony Adun, popularly known as Kabaka.

The multi-million-naira T. Latifah Hotel and Suites, located in the Ugbor axis of GRA, Benin, was demolished on February 5, 2020, under the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki, over claims that it was built on government land.

Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, confirmed the development to journalists in Benin City, stating that the payment followed a resolution reached at the State Executive Council meeting.

He explained that Adun had challenged the demolition in court and won the case. Since the ruling was inherited by the current administration, Governor Okpebholo decided to implement it.
“As a governor who believes that decisions of the court are to be obeyed, today (Friday), EXCO has approved the sum the court asked to be paid. The beneficiary will know that we have a governor who is thoughtful, law-abiding, and believes that justice must be rooted in confidence,” Ohonbamu said.

Weekend Tribune recalls that on June 13, 2025, Adun revealed in a viral video on Edo Videos Facebook page that Governor Okpebholo had also promised to rebuild his hotel. The disclosure came a day earlier during the Democracy Day celebration at the State Government House.

“Your Excellency, I want to thank you for your promise. I want to tell you all what makes my Democracy Day today.

“What makes my Democracy Day today is His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and Hon. Dennis Idahosa, who have promised Kabaka that they will rebuild my hotel this morning.

“May God bless you all as you join me to celebrate my lost hotel,” he stated.

K+dnppers Demand N15m Ransom for Edo Bus Passengers

Abd¥ctors of passengers from an 18-seater New Edo Line bus and a Toyota Camry along the Owan–Auchi Road have reportedly demanded N15 million ransom for each victim still in captivity.

The att+ck occurred on September 5, 2025, when g¥nmen intercepted the vehicles and forced passengers into the bush. The Edo State Police Command later rescued 16 victims, but several others remain held.

Among those still in captivity is Gloria Ikhaghu, who was returning home after her father’s burial in Okpekpe, Etsako East LGA. A family member confirmed that k+dnappers had contacted them.

“We are begging Governor Monday Okpebholo and everyone to help secure Gloria’s release, as we don’t have such money,” the relative said. “We just buried her father; raising N15 million is impossible.”

Police spokesperson CSP Moses Yamu said he was unaware of any ransom demand but assured that security operatives were “still combing the bush” for the victims.

The Owan–Auchi axis has long been a hotspot for abductions and armed att+cks, with criminals exploiting the dense forest terrain. The latest incident has renewed calls for stronger highway security in Edo State.

In 2023 and 2024, frequent k+dappin along the Benin–Auchi and Benin–Ekpoma roads triggered protests from residents, who accused security agencies of failing to adequately protect travellers.

#Instablog9jaNews #TrendingStory #Awareness #wStayUpdated

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.

‘Leave Edo State’, Gov Okpebholo Warns Cultists, Criminals

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern ultimatum to cultists, kidnappers, and ritualists to vacate the state or face the full weight of the law.

The warning follows the demolition of a bungalow in Egbaen Community, Egor LGA, allegedly used by the Maphite cult group for initiation rites and ritual practices. The operation was carried out by the state’s Special Security Squad, Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers, in collaboration with security agencies.

Coordinator of the squad, Idemudia Noah, said the property belonged to Marvelous Adetarami, a suspected cult leader who defied earlier government orders to halt illegal activities on the premises. Residents applauded the demolition, describing it as a relief from months of fear and insecurity.

Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for criminality, vowing that Edo will no longer serve as a safe haven for cultism and kidnapping. Authorities have invited the suspect for questioning.

#EdoSecurity #Cultism #Okpebholo #NigeriaNews

Gov Okpebholo Orders Cultists, Others To Vacate Edo.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has directed cultists, kidnappers and criminal elements to immediately leave the state or face the full weight of the law.

The directive followed the demolition of a building in Egbaen Community in Egor local government area, which was used as a base for cult initiation rites and ritual practices.

The operation was carried out by the Edo State Special Security Squad codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers”, working in concert with various security agencies and community stakeholders.

Coordinator of the Security Squad, Idemudia Noah confirmed that the building was linked to one Marvelous Adetarami, a leader of the Maphite cult group who had converted the bungalow into a shrine and meeting point for illegal activities.

“We were here some days ago to seal up this building following allegations of cultism, ritual practices and other nefarious activities of suspected Maphite cult leader Marvelous Adetarami and his members,” Idemudia told journalists at the scene.

He disclosed that despite sealing the premises earlier, intelligence reports confirmed that the suspects resumed their clandestine operations under the cover of darkness.

“We got credible information that the suspected cult leader Marvellous Adetarami and his members still gathered to have their meetings in this sealed bungalow, where the horrible shrine was discovered,” he revealed.

Residents of the area applauded the government’s swift action, expressing relief that a major source of insecurity in the community had finally been neutralised.

South Uneme Leaders Pledge 100% Support for Tinubu and Okpebholo Ahead of 2027 Elections

The people of South Uneme communities in Edo North have declared unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, vowing to deliver 100% of the votes in their domain during the 2027 general elections.

The community leaders, under the aegis of the South Uneme Leaders Forum, also reaffirmed their backing for Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, and Senator Adams Oshiomhole, commending their grassroots development strides.

At a high-powered meeting held in Fugar, the forum passed a vote of confidence in Governor Okpebholo and Senator Oshiomhole. They hailed President Tinubu for his economic stabilisation efforts and pledged full mobilisation for his re-election.

The Secretary of the Forum and former Etsako Central LGA Chairman, Ambrose Kevin Akhigbe, highlighted Oshiomhole’s recognition as “Ozemoya of South Uneme” for constructing the 30km Anegbette–Uzanu road and appointing indigenes into strategic positions.

He disclosed that the forum resolved to embark on massive voter mobilisation, participate actively in the 2025 INEC Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), and ensure electoral unity ahead of the 2027 elections.

The meeting drew top leaders including:

Dr. Aliyu Umaru (Forum Chairman)

Yakubu Cephas Mohammed (Acting Chairman, Etsako Central LGA)

Suleiman Bagudu (former council chairman)

Alhaji Inusa Azimih (business mogul)

Mohammed Okpafi (APC zonal leader)
…alongside women, youth, religious, and community leaders.


The resolutions, they stressed, mirror South Uneme’s commitment to development and progressive leadership.


#Tinubu2027 #Okpebholo #Oshiomhole #EdoPolitics #SouthUneme #APC #NigerianPolitics #2027Elections

Edo: Okpebholo summons contractor over delay in Benin Sapele road reconstruction.

BENIN CITY THE governor of Edo State, Monday, has summoned the contractor handling the reconstruction of the Benin Sapele Road over its slow pace despite money being released and the quality of drainage.

A statement on Monday by Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua said the governor decided after driving through the over 20-kilometre road where he stopped at several points and inspected the quality of the drain, pavement and materials being used for the construction.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has expressed displeasure over the slow pace of work on the ongoing Benin-Sapele road project despite the financial mobilisation of contractors.

He said the governor stopped at Peanut junction, Ogheghe junction by Akenuwa Community, Ogheghe road, off Sapele road, Old road, which was abandoned by previous administrations after several promises to the residents in the area.

Okpebholo said, “I have inspected what they are doing, and the work is solid and good. But the problem is the level of spee,d which is not good for me. People are suffering due to the slow pace of work and we have to do something drastic to ensure that the road is motorable by reducing the plight of the people who are using the road.

“The second segment of the road, which is another 7k,m will soon commence, but apart from the road, the drain is important to us because it is responsible for taking water out.

“Drainage is important, and the design stopped the construction of the drainage system in the middle of the town. The question is, where will the water go? We will look at the design again to ensure that the one we will finally construct for this road takes water out of town and desilts it at the proper place. When this is done, it will enable us to have a good and lasting road after its completion.

“Our people are suffering and crying, and we are out here this evening to check the level of work done and ensure speedy completion,” he said.

“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