Edo Govt Frees AAU Students Arrested During Ekpoma Insecurity Protest

Edo State government has released Ambrose Alli University (AAU) students arrested during a protest over rising insecurity in Ekpoma. While the demonstration turned violent due to hoodlums, Governor Monday Okpebholo assured genuine students of dialogue and reforms. The administration has boosted AAU’s monthly allocation to ₦500 million and pledged to clear ₦41 billion in salary arrears. Okpebholo condemned violence and looting, urging peaceful engagement while promising security improvements across Ekpoma.

#EdoNews #AAUStudents #PeacefulProtest

Ekpoma Protests: Okpebholo Approves Release Of Arrested Persons
The governor also dismissed claims of kidnapping linked to the incident, describing them as false and stage-managed to mislead the public and create ethnic tension.

Amahor Community in Edo Raises Alarm Over Alleged Illegal Occupation of Forest Reserve by Non-Indigenes, Accuses Palace and State Government of Inaction as Tension Threatens Violence

Residents of Amahor community in Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State have raised serious concerns over what they describe as the illegal occupation of their forest reserve by non-indigenes, warning that the situation could degenerate into violence if the government fails to intervene urgently.

According to a statement by Dr. Napoleon Oluokhae on behalf of Concerned Amahor Indigenes, outsiders allegedly settled deep inside the community’s forest without consent or due process, engaging in cocoa farming, Indian hemp cultivation, and other agricultural activities. The community claims the land was unlawfully leased, triggering anger and fear of long-term loss of ancestral land.

Tensions reportedly worsened after an unauthorised access road was constructed into the forest reserve, heightening security concerns. The dispute has also created a rift between residents and the traditional ruler, HRH Zaiki Enadeghe Ehijie, whom indigenes accuse of allocating communal land without consultation, documentation, boundaries, or time limits. Oluokhae alleged the monarch admitted to receiving ₦4.5 million in connection with the allocation.

Amahor residents said they have submitted petitions to the Nigeria Police, the Edo State Government, and security authorities, but claim investigations have stalled despite initial acknowledgment by the governor’s security adviser. They also cited state forestry regulations, noting that perennial crops are prohibited in government forest reserves, a position reportedly confirmed by the Area Forest Officer.

The community fears that continued government inaction and what they describe as attempts to legitimise the occupation through repeated mediation meetings could lead to unrest. Residents have appealed directly to Governor Monday Okpebholo to enforce the law, evict the alleged illegal occupants, and prevent a breakdown of law and order. As of the time of reporting, neither the Edo State Government nor the palace had issued an official response.

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.

President Tinubu meets NLC leaders over planned nationwide protest against insecurity

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday night held a meeting with the leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) as part of last-minute efforts to stop plans by the Labour union to embark on a strike action over the growing insecurity across the country.

Last week, the congress declared a nationwide protest for December 17 over the “degenerating security situation” across the country.

The meeting, which was held at the State House, Abuja, started at about 11:27pm and had Joe Ajaero, NLC president, Imo state governor Hope Uzodimma, Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi state, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo state and the Minister of Labour and EMployment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha in attendance.

The NLC had on Tuesday evening raised the alarm over an alleged plot by “unscrupulous agencies and desperate political hirelings” to infiltrate and violently disrupt its planned nationwide protest.

Speaking with State House correspondents after the meeting, the NLC president said the labour union would reconsider its protest plans after reviewing President Tinubu’s input.
He said the congress team would regroup following a dedicated session with governors to evaluate next moves.

Ajaero described the presidential encounter as consultative only, noting that the labour union would deliberate internally before announcing outcomes on Wednesday, December 17.

The NLC president did not say whether the planned protest has been suspended or cancelled but noted that the union would meet and take a decision after the consultation with the president.

“We came for consultation with the president, and we have finished, so we have to go back to our meeting and then continue tomorrow. By tomorrow you will get the outcome. Whether I am insisting on or not insisting on the protest, I will communicate to you; it is not an organisation that one person rules. Let’s go back; after a meeting of labour and the governor’s forum, we go back to the drawing board and digest all that Mr President said to us and move forward from there’’ he said

Tension Rises In Edo Community As Residents Accuse Strangers Of Illegal Forest Occupation, Indian Hemp Cultivation

Tension is mounting in Amahor community, Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State, following allegations that unknown outsiders have illegally occupied large portions of the community’s forest reserves. Residents claim the forest land was unlawfully leased to strangers now engaged in cocoa farming, Indian hemp cultivation and other agricultural activities without community consent. The situation has sparked widespread anger and security concerns, with locals describing it as a looming threat to peace. Despite petitions to the police, state ministries, and security agencies, residents say no decisive action has been taken. The community is now appealing directly to Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo to urgently intervene before the situation escalates further.

Davido Observes as President Tinubu Declares the Journey to Reclaim Osun in 2026 Has Begun

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji on emerging as the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for Osun State following Saturday’s primary election. Tinubu described Oyebamiji’s victory as the start of the journey to reclaim Osun for the progressive fold in 2026.

He commended the Osun APC for the unity and spirit of reconciliation that characterized the primary, which was conducted through affirmation. The President also praised aspirants who stepped down for Oyebamiji, highlighting their demonstration of party loyalty and commitment to APC ideals.

He urged the candidate to be magnanimous in victory by embracing all party leaders and former aspirants, fostering inclusivity and cohesion as the party moves forward. In a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said: “The journey to reclaim Osun State for the progressive fold in the 2026 governorship election has begun.

I urge all APC members and leaders in the state to remain focused, united, and resolute. Victory is achievable, and together, we will succeed.” The primary election in Osogbo, the state capital, was chaired by Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, where party delegates unanimously affirmed Oyebamiji’s candidacy.

APC INAUGURATES COMMITTEE ON OSUN GOVERNORSHIP PRIMARY

The Governing All Progressives Congress APC has inaugurated a six member committee to conduct a governorship primary for nine aspirants and produce a standard bearer ahead of 2026 off-cycle Governorship Election in Osun State

Political Correspondent Abubakar Akwanga reports that, the committee is led by the Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, Governors of Nasarawa, Lagos, Ondo, former Governor of Kogi State Yahaya are to serve as members while former FCT minister Ramatu Aliyu is the chief scribe of the Committee

The Party assured of a thorough Job in its bid to reclaim back the party and provide good governance and dividends of democracy to the people of Osun 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.

Edo Civil Society Condemns Assault on Journalist, Warns Against Rising ‘Digital Slap’ Culture

The Edo State Civil Society Coalition for Human Rights has condemned the alleged assault on journalist Mrs. Juliet Enabulele by suspended Public Safety Response Team coordinator, Kelly Okungbowa (Ebo Stone). The group described the attack as a violation of human dignity, press freedom, and the rule of law, expressing concern that senior political figures in Edo State are normalizing violence through the celebration of so-called “digital slaps.” The coalition urged Governor Monday Okpebholo to distance his administration from the incident, ensure accountability, and uphold constitutional protections for journalists. The group also demanded a transparent investigation, an end to political glorification of violence, and stronger protection for media workers. This follows a similar incident in which APC leaders publicly celebrated and financially rewarded an assault on an APC critic in Manchester, UK.


#Edojournalistassault

#JulietEnabulele

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".