ACCEPTANCE SPEECH BY CHIEF (DR) FRANCIS INEGBENIKI AFTER EMERGING VICTORIOUS AT THE EDO CENTRAL SENATORIAL APC PRIMARY ELECTION.

Inegbeniki

…WE ARE ALL WINNERS!!!

My people, it is with a deep sense of gratitude and humility that I accept this mandate to run as the flag bearer of our great party, APC in the 2015 Senatorial elections. Let me just say first of all,  that there's never been a more humbling moment in my life than this day. I consider the trust you have placed in me sacred and I give you my sacred oath that I will do my utmost to justify your faith if by God`s grace, am elected at the general election, 2015. And now, as I said before, to my family. I'm so grateful to them, for the love, for the support and for the hard work, because they were out on the campaign trail at convenient and inconvenient timing.

My people, this victory was made possible by you through the delegates. I thank all the delegates, who voted according to their consciences. For once, you did not waver in your faith in the process put in place by our great party, APC.  And to my fellow contestants, I have nothing but commendation and respect for putting up a good contest.  I extend my hand of fellowship and ask you to join me, in not only winning the general election in February 2015 but to continue to build the tradition of excellence in development, understanding and love that our party has come to be associated with in Edo state.

The success of this primary and the victory that has come out of it is not just for me but for all of us that stepped into the race. It is a victory for Esan people and for democracy. The responsibility belongs to all of us. Let us put aside the disappointment of yesterday and embrace the opportunity of today. Not forgetting that the future begins today. We must never forget that the future of Esan people is bigger than the summation of our ambitions.

 Furthermore, to the State party executive and the National officers, I stretch my appreciation for the long hours and the experience invested in this exercise. The orderliness, the transparency of the process and the spirit of sportsmanship devoid of bitterness that enveloped this process portray a better future for our democracy.

 Conclusively, I promise never to waiver nor fail. I promise to energize and mobilize our teeming supporters in the next phase of this struggle. I put myself to the task, knowing fully well that the struggle to give the best to my people and bring in a good governance already laid by other heroes in Esanland must never be destroyed but built upon. I commit to the continuation of excellence and the uplifment of the lives of all Esan people.

I thank you and God bless our people.

Chief (Dr) Francis Inegbeniki
Winner, Edo Central Senatorial District APC`s primary election,
December 8,  2014

APC PRIMARIES: LET US COOPERATE AMONG OURSELVES, APC SENATORIAL ASPIRANT URGES OTHERS.

Chief Inegbeniki

EKPOMA: In a communique made available by Chief (Dr) Francis Inegbeniki through his social media director, Prince kelly O Udebhulu yesterday,  he urged the party and those charged with the responsibility of organizing the primaries to discharge their duty with fairness, openness and justice, all of which have been the guiding principles of the APC.

“We have come a long way in the campaign without violence and no trouble, we pray for the remaining hours (days) to be peaceful. Let us cooperate among ourselves.” he said.

Chief (Dr) Francis Inegbeniki , the most popular aspirant, said, “My take is that a free and fair primaries should be conducted and a level-playing field provided for all the aspirants, if this is done on December 8, anybody that wins will win gallantly and any person that loses, will also see that he lost gallantly.”

“There is no need for acrimony, the delegates are going to decide, if we are not favoured, we will accept the result and give our ideas to whoever wins. Only one man will win. Esanland is our place; we need a peaceful place for development.” he concluded.

Edo PDP Aspirants Protest Outcome of Assembly Primary in the State.

PROTESTERS

BENIN CITY-Protests on on Thursday trailed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primary in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo State as some of the aspirants who lost called for cancellation of the election.

They also asked the immediate resignation of the party senatorial leader, Mr. Lucky Imasuen, following what they described as the ignoble role he allegedly played to screw the result in favour of certain persons.

In a protest letter signed by Clifford Igbinoba, Jefferson Uwoghiren, Patricia Ero, Festus Okpiaebe, Osahon Imaru, Sunny Erengbo and Edobor Oghosa which was made available to journalists in Benin City, the state capital, they further called for the immediate constitution of an interim committee to run the affairs of the party in the local government chapter before next congress.

The aggrieved PDP aspirants alleged that the entire process of the party primary was characterised by unwholesome interference and coercion of delegates, financial inducement, substitution of delegates, violence against aspirants, blackmail and removal of perceived rigid ward chairmen.

According them, “We chose to participate in the exercise in the mistaken belief that the party was ready to turn a new leaf and shed its reprehensible records of imposition of candidates, but Imasuen, for selfish and personal reasons, threw spanner in the whole process, and in one week, wiped off rising goodwill the party had gained in the past months.

“From his command and control centre, Iyakogba, Benin City, he was threatening and directing delegates to vote for persons and dishing out a campaign of calumny against aspirants he had penciled down in his political black book.”

But is a swift reaction, Imasuen denied all the allegations against him, asking if he has become so powerful as to be the one to singularly decide who should emerge in the party primary in the locality.

Four APC Presidential Aspirants Want Convention Shifted to Abuja or Edo state.

Indications emerged yesterday that disagreements  is brewing in the camps of the four of the five presidential aspirants on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the plan by the party leadership to shift the venue of its national convention.

Consequently, the four aspirant shave petitioned the National Chairman of the party, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, demanding that the venue of the party’s national convention be shifted from Lagos to Abuja.

The four aspirants, including former Vice-President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar; Kano State Governor, Alhaji, Rabiu Musa Kwakwanso; Leadership Publisher, Mr. Sam Nda-Isaiah and Imo State Governor, Chief Rochas  Okorocha, are also seeking the cancelation of the delegates’ list from 37 Local Council Development Authorities  (LCDAs) of Lagos State which formed part of the list of delegates for the national convention.

The argument by the four aspirants was that the LCDAs were not recognised by the constitution and that they were not in the know how the said delegates emerged.

The petition, handed to Oyegun, was also copied to all members of the party’s National Working Committee(NWC).

A source in the party, however,  said its leadership had scheduled a meeting for Monday to address the issues raised in the petition.

It was learnt that the letter, signed by the four aspirants was handed over to the national chairman at his official residence in  Asokoro, Abuja last Saturday, while the NWC members were also copied.

The aspirants were concerned that the delegates list from Lagos included members from the 37 non-constitutionally recognised development areas of the state areas whereas only 20  local governments are recognised from Lagos state in the 1999 Constitution.

One of the party’s chieftains who is close to one of the aspirants also said monday that the presidential aspirants, except General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) have rejected the delegates list from Lagos State.

He stated that the presidential aspirants alleged that someone might have sat somewhere to draw up the list.
Besides, a source said yesterday that some of the aspirants are contemplating  a court case if the party insists on using the list from the 37 unrecognised local councils.

Said a source: “One of the steps being contemplated is the possibility of filing a court case if the NWC fails to act quickly on the matter.”

The aspirants are insisting that rather than take the convention to Lagos, the event should hold in Eagle Square, Abuja after the convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) .

A source in the know further said: “The aspirants are insisting that the convention can hold after that of the PDP and that they are ready  to wait until the venue in Abuja is free. In the alternative, they also suggested that the venue can be shifted to Benin City, Edo State to avid any further acrimony.”

Nigeria's Political Leaders Offer Twelveth Month wishes to Electorates- APC Senatorial aspirant in Edo state, Chief (Dr) francis Inegbeniki.

Chief Inegbeniki & supportive wife

Nigeria’s political leaders are using their last month of the year messages to urge people to reach out to those less fortunate during the Christmas and new year seasons.

In a message released today, the APC senatorial aspirant in Edo state, Chief (Dr) francis Inegbeniki, wished Esan people and Nigerians a happy, peaceful and safe time in all their trips during this festive season, saying it was an opportunity “to reflect, to count our blessings and to give thanks for all the good things we enjoy”.

“We are a good and generous people – and I hope this festive season; we will remember everyone who is doing it tough and lend a hand where we can,” Chief (Dr) francis Inegbeniki said in his twelveth month message since declaration of  interest to run for Edo Central Senatorial seat under APC.

He paid tribute to those working for charities to ensure those who were less fortunate enjoyed a festive meal. Chief (Dr) francis Inegbeniki also thanked members of the armed forces “serving our country and  values” in this trial time in our country`s security concerns.

“On this Day, like every day, our hospitals, our police stations, INEC workers and our fire brigades are ready and working, so I thank the nurses, the doctors, the police, INEC workers and the emergency services personnel who are missing precious lunch or family dinner and family trips because they’re keeping our communities safe, working round the clock to serve the nation at their respective positions and responsibilities. We all hope you have a good quiet days,” Chief (Dr) francis Inegbeniki said.

On this occasion, many supporters who turn out; using the opportunity to express their respective assessments of this Esan icon as:

• A man who honours his words.
• Who don't lie to cover facts. To him nothing increases compatibility like mutual trust and honesty.  To him, Credibility is hard to regain.
• Who don't take bribes that may compromise his position.
• Who takes responsibility for his mistakes and learn from them. He don't pass the heat on to others.
• Who always guard his tongue. He don't talk anyhow and he don't divulge information given in confidence.
• A man to be with and to bring the needed change to esan people.
• A generous man not only to the Esan people but to all that come across him for assistance due to his generous attributes. 
• An icon who was Crowned "the Are Taiyese of Lagos"- meaning a man who came to repair; crowned as the Uzoya of Esanland by the Enijies of Esanland.
• A man of the people both home and away.  the people`s choice always.
• Chief (Dr) Francis Inegbeniki, a leader with passion, love by his people, possesses the fear of God ij all his doings, attained necessary qualities to lead and humility to serve. Chief (Dr)Francis Inegbeniki is no doubt  "a Transformative Bridge-building leader".

*Superlative Leadership Qualities of Chief (Dr.) Francis Inegbeniki X–Rayed.

 One Symbolic side of The great Uzoya is that he takes Leadership Personally.

1. He understand that he have a part to play in the story that is his life and that of his Esan People. 
2. That there is a job to be done, tasks to complete, ideas to originate, and ground to be gained.
3. The Uzoya knows that a leading role has meaning. It adds something to the story. A leading role is the part of the pacesetter, the one who plays the first part. And that is why his our next Senator.
4. Chief Francis Leadership role has entrances…and exits and runs it not as a one man show. He make appearances and absent himself at times to allow for variables or new ideas. 
5. His leadership role serves as the one with whom others identify. This is very symbolic.
6. Chief (Dr.) Francis Inegbeniki's leadership role has relevance. You know you are effective when you are, with what you believe, with what you say, with what you intend to influence, with your thinking, with your attitudes, and the actions/response of those you lead.
7. He at times take tough decisions even when it affect few policy/decision makers but beneficial to the vast majority of the people. His reason----because he believe that the larger interest supersedes the smaller interest.

Covered by Esan people News crew

Anchored by Prince Kelly O. Udebhulu.
Prince Kelly O. Udebhulu is a trained journalist from the AIU (USA), resides in Spain; a blogger and special correspondent to some news media internationally.
Twitter: @princekelly75
Facebook: prince kelly o.udebhulu
Skype: princekellyudebhulu
google hangout: princekellyudebhulu1

ALERT NEWS!!! Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, Speaker, House of Representatives, asked to resign for peace to reign in the legislature- Mr Mike Ozekhome (SAN).

TAMBUWAL

Mr Mike Ozekhome, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), on Thursday called on Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, Speaker, House of Representatives, to resign for peace to reign in the legislature.

Ozekhome, a constitutional lawyer, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) while reacting to the lawmakers’ fracas which culminated in Thursday’s shut down of the national Assembly.

NAN reports that Senate President David Mark on Thursday announced the suspension of National Assembly plenaries until Tuesday, following the reconvening of House of Representatives.

The lower chamber reconvened on Thursday to discuss President Goodluck Jonathan’s request for the extension of the State of Emergency in the three North-East states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe.

NAN reports that security operatives barricaded the entrance in an attempt to prevent Tambuwal access to the hallowed chamber, leading to a commotion and the fearing of tear gas.

Ozekhome said that the undercurrent of the entire episode was that some lawmakers must have felt that the reconvening of the House would lead to Tambuwal’s impeachment by his opponents.

This, he said, could have informed their desperate attempt to get to the chambers by climbing the National Assembly gate and fence when it was closed against them to forestall the impending fracas.

“My advice is that Tambuwal should honourably and voluntarily resign as Speaker of the House of Representatives in order for peace to reign in the National Assembly.

“Having defected from the political party on which platform he got to the National Assembly and became the Speaker, he should stop his present grandstanding because he cannot have his cake and eat it.

“Whether the courts have declared his seat vacant or not, whether he has been impeached or not, and whether it is constitutional for him to do so or not, he owes a moral obligation to resign now.

Ozekhome said that the Senate President did the right thing by suspending plenary till Tuesday next week so that the tension would calm down.

“The Senate President, by virtue of Section 53 (2) of the Nigerian Constitution, is the Chairman of the National Assembly and so is empowered to regulate the legislature which is bicameral.’’

He condemned the action of lawmakers who climbed the fence to get into the premises of the National Assembly complex.

The senior advocate said that what those lawmakers did smacked of `indecency, indecorum and, above all, very shameful in the eyes of those who elected them and the international community. (NAN)

ALERT NEWS! INEC lifts ban on campaigns for Presidential and the National Assembly elections slated for next Year.

ABUJA- THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on Monday, officially lifted the ban on campaigns for presidential and the National Assembly elections slated for next year.

The action is in line with the electoral timetable released by the commission and in keeping with the 90 days provisio, presidential and national assembly aspirants have from Monday, November 16 commenced their  campaigns.

However, governorship and state House of Assembly aspirants will have to wait till November 30 before they can begin their own electioneering campaigns nationwide.

Speaking on the development  in Abuja, on Monday, the Chief  Press Secretary to INEC chairman, Mr Kayode Idowu, said the commission had put all arrangements in place to monitor the campaigns in line with the provisions of the law.

According to him, “the commission has put structures in place to track expenditures; that structures did not exist in 2011, but now, we have been able to put structures in place to track the expenditure of partisans and we are going to be doing that.”

According to section 91, sub-section 2-7 of the Electoral Act, delves on Limitation on Election Expenses “The maximum elections expenses to be incurred by a candidate at a presidential, governorship election shall be N1 billion and N200 million, respectively.

“The maximum amount of election expenses to be incurred of senatorial seat by a candidate and House of Representatives shall be N40 million and N20 million respectively,” while “in the case of state assembly election, the maximum amount of election expenses to be incurred shall be N10 million.”

Meanwhile, section 91 (10) said “a candidate who knowingly acts in contravention of this section commits an offence.

Similarly, section 92 (3) has spelt out that “election expenses of a political party shall be submitted to the commission in a separate audited return within 6 months after an election and such return shall be signed by the political party’s auditors and counter-signed by the chairman of the party and be supported by a sworn affidavit by the signatories as to the correctness of its contents.”

He pointed out  that the law had put ceiling on each offices and the commission monitor to see whether it had been exceeded.

Police parade 76 suspected criminals in Edo.

BENIN CITY-he Edo State Police Command on Friday paraded 76 suspects, including a suspected fake doctor, for various heinous offences committed in different locations across the state.

The suspects were paraded by the Commissioner of Police, Foluso Adebanjo, at the state headquarters in Benin.

The fake doctor, Moses Hajire Jumbo, was arrested for alleged murder of a pregnant woman whom he illegally operated upon for child delivery on September 24.

Jumbo, was said to have admitted the late woman into one St. Moses Nursing Maternity Home, operated on her unlawfully at Uwelu Quartres in the state capital, where she gave up after delivery.

According the command, investigations showed that the suspect was never a medical doctor, a nurse or a medical staff of any hospital.

The suspect was said to have confessed to the crime and would be charged to court.

Others paraded by the command include four attempted murder suspects, 16 armed robbery suspects, five suspected kidnappers, 15 suspected cultists and illegal possessors of firearms, 10 suspected rapists and seven persons arrested for alleged defilement.

One Believe Ofuegbu, 30, was arrested for alleged sodomy, four persons were arrested for alleged violent threat to life, one was nabbed for manufacturing adulterated spirits.

The commanded also arrested an alleged fraudster and three other persons for alleged burglary.

The police commissioner, who assured the public that the agency would clamp down on criminals in the state, disclosed that the command also recovered 17 assorted guns, 30 live cartridges, two cutlasses, 21 vehicles, one motorcycle and the sum of N19,700.

ADAMS OSHIOMHOLE MAY EMERGES AS APC VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE.

Oshiomhole

A renowned labour leader and mobiliser, the Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, is a household name in the nation’s body polity. His ascendancy to power was not without a fight, the type akin to his union days. From his days in the labour union to his governorship, Oshiomhole has not ceased to be the man of the people, especially given his oratory skills which often mesmerise his audience.
But if that was the image that many had of him, his switch to politics provided yet his other side, which is however complementary in terms of stewardship. Since assuming office, Oshiomhole who has consistently been up against the opposition in his state, may have been vindicated on account of resounding track record in his six years in office.
It is against this backdrop and other factors that some of the stakeholders in the APC hold the view that an Oshiomhole paired with a presidential candidate could sell the ticket. But he also has to deal with his weaknesses as much his strengths.

Strengths:

• He has name recognition and was very popular as a former NLC president.
• He has experience, coming from many years of leading the NLC, coupled with governing his state.
• He has a good track record in terms of stewardship.
• He has the capacity to mobilise, a major strength he acquired from his days as NLC president.
• He understands policy and is scandal-free.
• As a Christian, he would make a good pairing with a Muslim candidate.

Weaknesses:

• He is deemed stubborn and sometimes unyielding.
• He does not have the capacity to split the votes of his region, the South-south zone.
• He may not have the backing of the APC leadership.

BABATUNDE FASHOLA:

Lawyer and administrator, the Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, is one other person who has carved a very good niche for himself in the nation’s political space through style and vision. Often referred to as the poster child of the party or on a lighter note, the ‘Class Captain’, Fashola is seriously touted as a winning material and very marketable, if paired with a very good candidate, given his accomplishments in almost eight years in office.


Fashola, in over seven years, has redefined stewardship and lent credence to the fact that there is nothing truly esoteric about governance, especially when it comes to delivering on promises. His penchant for making state institutions functional and upholding the rule of law is part of the reasons he remains the darling of many, even amongst his governor colleagues.
Indeed, Fashola, given his popularity and broad acceptability, is generally considered the frontrunner as vice-presidential candidate on the APC platform, and can be paired to form an effective and formidable ticket.

Strengths:
• He is very popular and has name recognition.
• His name on the ticket, could alter the presidential election and would most certainly give President Goodluck Jonathan and the PDP cause for concern.
• He boasts of experience and has proved to be one of the best governors in the country in terms of performance and delivery.
• He is urbane and exposed and this could attract the support of Nigerians who have been pushing for a leader who can effectively represent the country on the global arena in carriage, substance and discourse.
• He understands policy and has a sound legal mind.
• He could help in funding the campaign as well as garner the vote of the South-west.
• He is scandal-free

Weaknesses:
• He is a Muslim, though married to a Christian. His religion may be disadvantageous at this material time if paired with another Muslim candidate from the North.
• He is sometimes stubborn and uncompromising.
• On a personal level, he has a weak political base despite his popularity.
• He may not have the support of Tinubu, who has his heart set on the number two slot.
• The South-west factor may also count against him when it comes to geo-political balancing.


BOLA AHMED TINUBU:

The self-styled national leader of the main opposition party, Bola Tinubu has come a long way in Nigerian politics. From his days as a senator in the early 90's to his era as governor of Lagos State, Tinubu has remained a crowd puller on the political turf and as a result, has carved a distinct image for himself.
Ironically, Tinubu’s eventful eight years as governor are hardly recalled by many as much as his investment in the creation of a credible opposition in the country, first by holding down the South-west and later extending the influence of the opposition to other parts of the country.
Believed to have paid his dues, Tinubu is one of those keen on the vice-presidential ticket of the APC. In fact, he more than anyone else has tried to push the Muslim-Muslim ticket despite its unpopularity.
His position in the party, notwithstanding, he would not be handed the ticket on name recognition alone, but on other extrapolations that would determine whether or not his paring with the candidate of the party would make the ticket stronger or weaker.

Strengths:
• He is very popular in the South-west and has name recognition nationwide.
• He has both legislative and executive experience.
• He has a very deep political base in the South-west which could be a major plus in the presidential election.
• He has a heavy war chest.
• He had a relatively good track record as governor.

Weaknesses:
• As a Muslim, the Muslim-Muslim ticket may not fly, even though he is married to a Christian and has been known to attend events in churches.
• He is increasingly looking frail.
• Can the man who calls himself the leader of the APC, be the led?
• He continues to contend with the perception of corruption, even when there has been no case of graft  established against him.
• He has vested interests in businesses.
• The South-west factor could work against him in the light of geo-political balancing.

CHIBUIKE AMAECHI:

The governor of the oil-rich Rivers State, Chibuike Amaechi, has etched himself in the political consciousness of the people, counting from his time as Speaker of the state House of Assembly. His governorship, however which would later earn him the chairmanship of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), an office that further catapulted his popularity, especially given his stand on issues of governance.
This disposition also pitted him against the presidency, the outcome of which is believed to have enhanced his standing in the arena. The fact that Amaechi brought in his radicalism to the governance of Rivers is believed to be part of what has continued to sustain him. He is being tipped as one of the likely vice-presidential candidates on account of these and many factors including his track record.

Strengths
• As governor, he has performed creditably in terms of governance and transformational achievements.
• He boasts rich legislative and executive experience.
• He could help mobilise funds to execute the campaign.
• He has name recognition and is independent-minded.
• He could serve as a counter-weight to Jonathan and may be able to split the South-south votes and to a lesser extent, the South-east votes because of his Ikwere/Igbo background.
• He is a Christian who if paired with a Muslim candidate, the ticket will be well received and easy to sell.
• He understands policy and is scandal-free.

Weaknesses
• He is very stubborn and deemed by some to be a loose canon.
• He lacks broad-based national support.
• It would be a hard sell for the South-south to settle for second best with Jonathan in the seat.

Gov. Adams Oshiomhole Marks 6th Anniversary As Governor of Edo State -

oshiomhole

Edo State governor, Adams Oshiomhole on Wednesday recounted his administration’s achievements in the past 6 years, at an event which held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin.

Elders in the All Progressives Congress, including two presidential aspirants – Atiku Abubakar and Muhammadu Buhari, Audu Ogbeh, Imo Governor – Rochas Okorocha, Governor of Sokoto state – Aliyu Wamakko, Bola Tinubu as well as the Deputy governor of Edo, Oba of Benin, Dr Pius Odubu, Edo State APC Chairman, Barr Anselm Ojezua and Edo Chief of Staff, Hon. Patrick Obahiaghon.

Party supporters, market women, civil society groups were also present.

Addressing the crowd, Atiku, who spoke on behalf of himself and Buhari, noted that “six years ago, Edo State was liberated.

“Today we can see true transformation on the ground”, he said, casting a shade on the PDP’s transformation agenda, which he said was merely being carried out on the media.

“Go to any APC State, you will see true transformation” he said, noting that reports heard in PDP states were “all lies”.

He further campaigned for support for the forth coming elections, asking the crowd to vote in APC in all states of the federation.

Recounting his achievements in his 6th year as governor, Oshiomhole said “we are here to mark six years of revolutionary changes in Edo state”

According to him, the state was on “cloud minus zero” when he became governor but noted that his administration had brought change to the state. He stressed on his administration’s efforts regarding infrastructure, water resources and health.

His speech was partly a comparison between PDP and APC administration in the state, as well as preparing the people for the forthcoming elections.

“APC will defeat the president in Bayelsa,” he said adding that the opposition will defeat the PDP in Rivers, Cross River, Delta States.

On the 2015 general election, he said “by February next year, we will not vote on the basis of tribalism. We will vote on the basis of who provides power”.

Murtala, Abacha sons to battle for Kano governorship

Abacha

KANO: There is every indication that the Kano governorship race may eventually turn out to be a contest between the two sons of two former Generals that have also ruled the country previously.

Alhaji Abba Risqua Murtala Mohammed, Who told journalists at the PDP secretariat that he has submitted his nomination form for the state governorship would slug it out with some other contenders, prominent Mohammed Abacha.

Other contenders that have also indicated their interests for the governorship include: son of late General Sani Abacha, Alhaji Mohammed Sani Abacha and Mallam Salihu Sagir Takai, believed to be the anointed candidate of the two term governor of the state, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau.

Meanwhile, a political group, the Abuja Peoples Democratic Youth Forum for Integrity, has berated a former Public Relations Officer of the North-Central Zone of the party, Alhaji Saidu Garba Zuba, for refusing to quit his position despite his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a press release issued to our reporters and signed by the forum’s publicity scribe, Musa Yakubu Abdul, the Abuja PDP Youth forum said it is a common knowledge that Alhaji Saidu Garba Zuba has left the PDP to APC, yet he has failed to relinquish his position.

Brave Local hunters kill 80 Boko Haram members

hunters

YOLA-Angry local hunters yesterday engaged the dreaded Boko Haram in a battle in Maiha Local Government Area of Adamawa State, killing 80 of the sect’s members.

One of the hunters, who spoke with journalists in Yola, said that the local hunters were seriously angered by the capture of Mahia town on Monday by the insurgents.

Fearing the consequences of allowing the insurgents to hold sway, the local hunters in Mahia town mobilized other hunters in their neighbouring communities to team up against the Boko Haram members with a view to recapture the town.

According to the anonymous hunter, the hunters fought gallantly, killed 80 of the insurgents and recaptured Mahia local government headquarters from them.

In a fulfilled mood, the hunter lamented that the military authorities are preventing them from dislodging the insurgents and reclaiming their residents since they are not backed by law as constituted security forces and therefore cannot be trusted with the nation’s safety.

However, he appealed to the military authorities to scrutinize them and authorize them to face the Boko Haram insurgents in a battle which he believed that the hunters will win gallantly.

The hunter boosted that if left alone with the insurgents, they the hunters will wipe them out, as their hide outs are known to them and they can identify them. Adding that “if it is juju they also have it”

Meanwhile, a female suicide bomber yesterday detonated a bomb that exploded at the Federal College of Education (FCE) Kontagora, in Niger state, when students of the school were attending their lectures in the examination halls.

A student, Blessing Auta, told our reporter on telephone that the casualties included the suicide bomber and another female student, who later died from her injuries.

“At about 12:30, we heard a loud noise from our examination hall. On reaching there, we saw two female bombers with detached bodies on the ground. Some students near the scene were affected,’’ she said.

Another student said that some of the students injured in the blast have been taken to the General Hospital, Kontagora, for treatment.

The blast happened at the Federal College of Education in the town of Kontagora, Niger state, some 150 kilometres (90 miles) from the state capital, Minna.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility but the explosion happened just two days after nearly 50 students were killed in a suspected Boko Haram suicide bomb attack at a school in the northeastern state of Yobe.

The Niger state Public Relation Officer, Malam Ibrahim Abiodun Gambari confirmed that the suicide bomber died at the spot, while four students were injured, were been treated at Kontagora General Hospital. “We have dispatched our teams from here,” he said.

He stated that from preliminary investigation, the target of the suicide bomber was the school library but could not gain entrance and decided to detonate it before reaching the library.

Meanwhile, the governor of Niger state, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu has condemned the attack, saying that it was dastardly and condemnable.

In a statement, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Israel Ebije yesterday in Minna, the Niger State Governor confirmed that the only death recorded was that of the female attacker.

Aliyu urged people of Kontagora and indeed Niger state to remain calm as, according to him, full-scale investigation has commenced and that the blast could not be linked to any terror organization yet.

He said the state government has already doubled security in all schools in Niger state.

In a related development, the death toll in a suspected Boko Haram suicide bombing of a secondary school in Potiskum, in northeast Nigeria has risen to 58, a school official said yesterday.

“From records at our disposal, the death toll now stands at 58 while the number of those injured has soared to 117,” said the official at the school in Potiskum, Yobe state.

It could be recalled that a suicide bomber, disguised in school uniform, blew himself up as students gathered for morning assembly at the Government Comprehensive Senior Science Secondary School, Potiskum, before classes began on Monday.

Police previously gave the death toll as 47, with 79 injured and said that Boko Haram was believed to be responsible.

The attack was one of the worst against a state-run school in Boko Haram’s bloody five-year insurgency, which has seen boarding school students killed in their beds.

ANNIVERSARY: Edo State Under Oshiomhole @ 6. Then And Now

anniversary photo

By NASAMU JACOBSON

It is now six years since the present administration came into office in Edo State. It is safe to say that the Governor, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole, has more or less achieved what he set out to do on assumption of office on November 12, 2008. The agenda was to reclaim the state from backwardness and transform it to a state that works to advance the cause of development and reposition the state to give the people hope.

As at November 12, 2008, Edo State could be described as a state where nothing worked. There were no motorable roads either in Benin City the state capital or in most other urban centres. There were hardly motorable roads linking the various communities in the hinterlands to major towns and cities in the state. School buildings were dilapidated in most areas while some where abandoned for reason of being inhabitable. There was no water, no public transport system and while hospitals in the state were mere consulting clinics.

Today in Edo State there is concrete evidence that the state is working. The Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole administration has brought development in all spheres to the three senatorial districts of the state.

In road development, over 50 contracts were awarded for the construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads across the state. Many of them are already completed. The roads include Sapele road, Sakpomba road, Oba Market road, Akpakpava street, Siluko road, Stadium road, Constain Isonorho road, Airport road with many adjoining streets, Guobadia street, Ivbiye street,Uwa street, Second West and Third Cementary streets all in Benin City. The expansion of Dawson-Urubi-Uselu-Ugbowo Road with the addition of service lanes has eased traffic congestion on the busy gateway to the West. The 5-Junction on Urubi-Uselu road has been redesigned, reconstructed and beautified to give the area not only aesthetics but also to remove the perennial flooding experienced in the area.

Edo North has also benefitted from the road construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation programme of the Adams Oshiomhole administration. The Ekperi-Anegbette road and bridge, Ayogwiri-Apana-Okpekpe, Iyamho-Iyora-Jattu, Jattu-Ibie roads have been completed. Other roads constructed by the Comrade Oshiomhole administration in Edo North include Sebe-Ogben-Otuo road, Ososo-Ojah-Uneme-Enwan-Igarra road, Ivioghe-Igiode-Uzanu road and Jattu-Ayua road. Auchi township road has been reconstructed with the Auchi-Jattu and Jattu Ikabigbo link also completed.

Edo Central senatorial district has had its fair share of road construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation. Roads either completed include Irrua-Usugbenu-Ugbegun-Ebudin-Ujiogba road, Amedokhian-Ugboha road, Igueben-Ewohimi-Ewatto-Ohordua road, Isua-Uzenema-Ebelle road and Igueben-Udo road. As a matter of deliberate policy and design, most of the roads, particularly township roads, are done with accompanying covered side drains, walkways and street lights.

Aside the many roads and streets constructed, reconstructed and rehabilitated in Benin City, the city centre otherwise called Oba Ovonramen Square or Ring Road, has undergone radical transformation to enhance its aesthetics. The installation and construction of a rhythmic musical water fountain at the inner Ring Road has been an attraction, playing host to thousands of visitors daily, particularly at night time.

All over Edo State, the renovation and construction of schools is being executed with many already completed and commissioned. These include Maria Goretti Girls Grammar School, Niger College, Idia College, Adolo College , Olua, Payne and Ohomba Primary Schools all in Benin City, Our Lady of Fatima College, Auchi, Saint Johns Boys Model School, Fugar, Anglican Grammar School, Igarra, Saint Angelas Girls Grammar School, Uzairue, Saint John Bosco College, Ubiaja, Annunciation Catholic College, Irrua, Urhonigbe Grammar School, Urhonigbe,Iguobazuwa Grammar School, Iguobazuwa. All renovated schools have been supplied modern furniture items including electric fans.

Three model secondary schools, one each in the three senatorial districts of the state are being constructed. They are located in Benin City, Iyamho and Ewohimi for South, North and Central senatorial districts respectively. Described as truly modern, the schools have two blocks of twenty seven standard classrooms, three fully equipped science laboratories, a fully stocked library, a canteen, 1,500 capacity hall and sporting facilities each. The model schools are also to have boarding facilities. This new initiative, according to Comrade Oshiomhole, “is to fix what is wrong and give Edo children the platform they need to realise their potentials”.

The health sector has also witnessed massive infrastructural development. While many Primary Healthcare Centres across the state were renovated or rehabilitated with additional facilities like staff quarters, perimeter fences and boreholes, there is the construction of a new ultra-modern Central Hospital complex in Benin City. The Comrade Oshiomhole administration believes and has shown commitment to “the attainment of an optimum level of good health by all the citizens irrespective of class or tribe as a healthy citizenry is the ultimate driving force for socio-economic development”. This is why great attention is paid to the uplift of primary and secondary healthcare, regular and genuine drug and equipment supply as well as the training and retraining of core and ancillary medical personnel.

The Oshiomhole administration has also considered transportation as very important to the socio-economic development of the state as it aids the movement of people and goods in addition to creating a means of livelihood for its operators. Edo people have not ceased thanking the Comrade Governor for providing 100 units of brand new luxury buses to kick-start a dedicated inter and intra-city commuter bus service. The COMRADE BUS is very popular in the state. The state-owned Edo City Transport Service,ECTS, has, therefore, been repositioned to effectively operate, remain self-sustaining, compete on purely economic terms and make profit. EDO LINE has undergone a management and facilities overhaul. Its buses will soon hit the highways again.

Also, radical changes have been made to address the chaotic nature of the major bus stops and motor parks especially within the Benin City business centres. Uniformed government agents empowered by law now keep surveillance on these bus stops and motor parks as well as engage in proper traffic management and control.

In the last six years of the Comrade Oshiomhole administration, attention has also been paid to the provision of electricity to communities in almost all the local government areas of the state. More than eleven mega electricity projects have been completed as well as the provision of prime technical infrastructure such as the supply and installation of transformers, feeder pillars, panel breakers, cables and other overhead materials. Electricity projects completed include Uluoke-Okpella 33kv Overhead line, Otuo and environs electricity project, Idumu-Eran-Eidumeson electricity project, Urhomehe electricity project, Agbonkina-Evbuotubu; Erua-evborien; Ekperi; Sasaro; Udo-Iguafole and Odighi electricity projects. The administration has also engaged in the installation of solar energy-powered street lights and traffic lights.

Provision of portable water is one area in which the Oshiomhole administration has excelled. Areas such as Ekpoma and Uromi which were thought incapable of producing water now enjoy the commodity in abundance. With the purchase of drilling rigs and other borehole equipment, the state government is providing potable water to communities in all the local government areas of the state. From Makeke, Afekunu in Akoko-Edo through Ayogwiri and Ugiole in Etsako West; Eko-Ewu and Eguare Opoji in Esan Central; Iruekpen and Ujemen in Esan West to Ogan and Ugboko in Orhionmwon and Uwelu and Okhokhugbo in Egor, Iraokhor and Ogbona in Etsako Central, Oshiomhole’s government is providing the people with potable water.

Another area in which the Comrade Adams Oshiomhole administration has transformed Edo State is youth and sports development with the repair and renovation of the Olympic size swimming pool of the Sam Ogbemudia stadium; rehabilitation of the main bowl through excavation and re-grassing, repair and rehabilitation of the State Box as well as the repair and renovation of both the Indoor Sports Hall and the Medical Centre.

In the administration of justice, peace and security, women affairs, chieftaincy, arts and culture, commerce and industry as well as labour relations, the Adams Oshiomhole administration has not only demonstrated a commitment to repositioning Edo State, it has ensured that the people are carried along to guarantee sustainability.

There is, therefore, no doubt that Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole has in the last six years brought Edo State out of the doldrums and positioned it on the road to development and greatness. With two more years to go in the life of the present administration, the Comrade Governor requires the continued support of all Edo people to accomplish the task of transforming the state.

ESAN LAND ON COURSE FOR A CULTURAL TRILLS: ESAN BEAUTY PAGEANT 2014

The long awaited "MISS ESAN BEAUTY PAGEANT 2014." Is here. It goin to be BIG, LOUD, LIVE & SO SO UNPRECEDENTED.

To all the MAIDENS/DAUGHTERS of Esan Land, the time you have long awaited for is finally here to showcase the beauty of your Cultural Heritage...

Special Guest Artistes Appearance are;

* FRANCIS AGODA A.K.A (I GO DYE)

*THE 2013 BIG BROTHER AFRICA REPS., (BIMP,BEVERLY OSU & BASSEY) & LOADS OF OTHER NAIJA REKNOWN CELEBRITIES plus THE RED-CARPET CLOURFUL EVENT VERSION .

There ll be camping for the contestants for one week which includes visiting of celebrities to the house and also a ceremonial visit to all the onojies of Esan land.

• 1st Price=:> A 4 days trip to dubai, a modelling carrier with International modelling Agency and face on Billboards/Magazines as "MISS ESAN" projecting and promoting the beauty of our Cultural Heritage.
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• 2nd Price=:> 2nd prize is an all expens paid trip to Gambia and a smart phone.
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• 3rd Price=:> A smart phone and the grand model for virginhood stitches company.

And Then there ll be grand awards from virginhood and all other sponsored companies.

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Forms are now available @ the following centres;

• SIZZLERS FAST FOOD CENTRE
• UBIAJA ROAD, UROMI.
• RODELIA RESTAURANT
• MISSION ROAD, UROMI.
• 76, AFUDA ROAD UROMI.
• SUPREME FASTFOOD MARKET SQUARE, EKPOMA.
• SENATE BAR & RESTAURANT, IRRUA.

FOR MORE ENQUIRIES PLS CALL:

+234 8060658244.

Presidential Grand Declaration: Goodluck Jonathan ignores security threat, walks amidst crowd Freely.

ABUJA-President Jonathan’s grand entry into the eagles square and his mingling with the huge crowd of supporters has been interpreted by some analysts who spoke with Esan People News as a populist move, meant to douse the ongoing tension in the land.

For many, the action of Mr. President is in disregard of the current security situation in the country, making security agencies to put in place stringent security measures to ensure that the event does not record any incident.

Meanwhile, motorists and commuters in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja went through a hectic time getting to places of work as practically all the roads around the city and satellite towns were blocked. Our reporters observed that commuters were stranded at bus stops all over the city.

The traffic nightmare was said to be a direct consequence of the presidential declaration going on at the Eagles Square in the capital city. The FCT Command of the Nigeria Police Force had announced on Monday that some roads leading to the declaration will be closed to traffic between 5am to 8pm.

According to our reporters, roads leading from Bwari/Ushafa, Dutse/Kubwa, Maraba/Nyanya and Lugbe axis witnessed heavy slow moving traffic while some parts of the roads were completely blocked.

Former Gov. Professor Oserheimen Osunbor announces fresh bid for Edo governorship, 2016.

Professor Oserheimen Osunbor

EKPOMA—almost six years after he was removed from office as governor by the Appeal Court in Benin, Professor Oserheimen Osunbor, yesterday announced his intention to run for the governorship of Edo State in 2016.

He spoke when youths across the three senatorial districts of the state, on the aegis of Edo Visionary Network, honoured him with Award of Excellence at his Iruekpen country home.

The youths, led by Mr. Innocent Ebhotemen, said the award was in recognition of Osunbor’s leadership quality both as a senator and former governor and appealed to him to make himself available to run for the governorship election in 2016.

Osunbor, who expressed joy for the award, said he felt elated that the people of the state appreciated his contributions, although the developmental strides of his administration was cut short.

According to him, “as you said in your address, the journey has not ended; and I should make myself available for service as governor of Edo State.

“Many groups and personalities across Edo State have been making this appeal to me to make myself available for continuity. I have always restrained myself from coming out.

“Because of the honour done to me today, I think it is appro-priate for me to tell the people of Edo State that I am willing and ready to come back.”

ESAN CARNIVAL; THE BIGGEST EVENT IN ESAN LAND-FROM 15TH - 23RD OF EVERY DECEMBER.

This Year Poster

ESAN CARNIVAL is organized by LordHarry Great Productions, an entertainment company based in Ekpoma, Esan West local government area of Edo state. The Carnival is registered with Edo State Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism, endorsed by the National Council for Arts and Culture, the Royal Traditional Monarchs of the Kingdoms of Esan land and the Principal Officers of the local government councils in Esan land.

ESAN CARNIVAL is an avenue for Celebrating and Showcasing the Cultural/Traditional Heritage, Prowess and Prosperity of the Esan people. It is our indicative to bring to brim light the Ancient Cultural Heritage of the Nigerian people at large. It is the BIGGEST event in Esan land happening from the 15th-23rd of every December. It is a home call to all Esans along with their Associates, Friends and Well wishers as well as other Residents of Esan and its environs; for Entertainment, Expository and Tourism Experiences.

ESAN CARNIVAL is diversified, in order to make meaningful manifold impacts in the lives of the people and proffer solutions to issues/challenges of the people, e.g., Culture/Tradition, Health, Education, Business, Agriculture, Sports, Fashion, Pageantry, etc.

ESAN LAND:

In brief, Esan (Edo Central Senatorial District) is one of the major ethnic groups in Edo State, South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Esan shares borders with Benin City from south, Agbor from south-east, Afemai from north and east and River Niger from west. Esan has a total of Thirty Five Kingdoms (large villages/townships) ruled by traditional monarchs, with great sons and daughters all over the world. The Land is Blessed and nutritionally rich in economic crops and herbal plants as well as natural resources. Her people and residents are peaceful and hospitable “brother’s” keeper. 

OUR VISION:

To make Esan Land one of the World’s Best Entertainment and Tourist Centres.

OUR MISSION:

To Celebrate and Showcase Esan’s Unique Cultural/Traditional Heritage, Prowess and Prosperity to the whole world, and give participants Unforgettable Fun-filled, Entertainment, Expository and Tourism Experiences. 

OUR CORE OBJECTIVES:

Showcasing and Celebrating Esan Prowess and Prosperity.
Revitalization, Promotion and Preservation of Esan Cultural/Traditional Heritage.
The Enhancement of Peace, Unity and Development amongst Esan People and Kingdoms.
The Creation of a Great Platform for young Talented Artistes to Positively Harness and Maximize their Potentials; thereby Steering them Away from Anti-social and Deleterious Behaviours, Clubs and Organizations that can Compromise their Future and that of the Society at large. Etc.

NATURE:

The Organizers of ESAN CARNIVAL are:
Carnival/Shows Organizers and Entertainers.
Cultural/Traditional Heritage Promoters and Propagators.
Not working for or against any particular religious group, political party or any other group/establishment. Like media houses, we can organize publicity and advertisement in our brochure of events (or any other available channel) for any group, be it religious, political and otherwise that employs our services and or accept to sponsor our programmes; provided that their missions and objectives are not inharmonious to ours and are not in any way harmful to humanity. 

Not in any way secretive or anti-social; as such, shall never support any secret group or anti-social individuals, bodies and activities.

ACTIVITIES:

Activities on ESAN CARNIVAL will hold both days and nights, some of such activities are;

Open Air-Live Performances by great popular music, dance, drama and comic artistes.
Traditional/Cultural Displays/Exhibitions.
Lectures/Workshops.
Football, Swimming and Fishing Competition.
Prince and Princess of Esan Carnival Beauty Pageant. 
Tour to Historic/Attractive Sites and some Palaces in Esan land. Etc.

Activities on the carnival will hold in various selected venues across the thirty five kingdoms in the five local government areas (Esan South East; Ubiaja, Esan North East; Uromi, Esan Central; Irrua, Igueben; Igueben and Esan West; Ekpoma) that make up Esan.

TARGETED POOL:

The targeted pool of ESAN CARNIVAL are Nigerians home and abroad, Edo people, Esan people(home and abroad) along with their Associates, Friends and Well wishers, members of staff (and Students) of the countless institutions and organizations in Esan land and other communities in its environs such as University of Benin, Ambrose Alli University, Igbinedion University, Igueben College of Education, Bishop Idahosa University, Auchi Polytechnics, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Delta State University, etc and numerous prestigious personalities such as Royal fathers of the thirty five kingdoms of Esan land, the great ministers and members of the uncountable churches in Esan, staff of the five local government secretariats, well meaning Esan politicians and leaders in the local, state and federal levels, Esan business bosses, Chief Executive Officers and Directors of companies all over the nation and abroad, etc, and foreign carnival lovers and tourists. 

PUBLICITY/PUBLICATION:

ESAN CARNIVAL will receive wide range publicity where your sponsorship of this event will bring to brim light the patriotic zeal of your company and personality. 

A well-packed Brochure of Events (ESAN CELEBRATION MAGAZINE) will be produced, where sponsorship/support of and advertisement with ESAN CARNIVAL will be showcased.

We hereby notify you of the opportunity of Sponsorships, Support, Participation and Advertisement with us. 

Please contact us for further enquires, or to intimate us of your interest in the Carnival via the means provided below.
Thank You. 

ORGANIZED BY:

LORDHARRY GREAT PRODUCTIONS
Project Office: 5, Dame Oboh Street, 
Dova Quarters, Eguare-Ekpoma, Edo State.

CONTACTS:

• Igberaese Aikohi (Coordinator): 08034186768, 08095837071
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• Ofure Idiakheua (Finance/Sponsorship Committee Chairman): 07059910643
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• John Akhidenor (Brochure/Marketing Committee Chairman): 08063444269
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• Egbele Chris (Events Manager): 07034224440
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• Umaholen Agatha (Welfare Committee Chairman): 07018015441, 08076799393
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• E-MAILS: lordharryproductions@gmail.com or esancarnival@gmail.com or
• info@esancarnival.com BBM: 2A30C904

SPECIAL THANKS TO GOD; OUR NUMBER 1 SPONSOR!

Vote Out Incompetent Leaders and punish political party that fielded them, Gov. Oshiomhole Tells Electorate

Oshiomhole

Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State has urged voters in the country to use their Permanent Voter’s Card (PVCS) to punish incompetent leaders and the party that fielded them by voting them out in the next general elections.

Speaking at the weekend shortly after collecting his card, Oshiomhole said without the PVC, it would be impossible to change an incompetent government.

According to him, “In a democracy, it is expected that when you elect people in good faith, you elect them in trust. When you have voted for someone and for one reason you are not satisfied, then you need the card to be able to fire the person, particularly when the person makes himself available in the next election. And if the person is not contesting and you feel strongly about the issue you can decide to use your card to punish the political party that fielded the person.

“This card is a horse-whip to punish anyone who you elected that did not perform and to punish the political party that produces that person unless you are convinced that it is not the fault of the party. The permanent voter’s card is not only an instrument of reward but one for punishment.

“Nothing justifies why you should not collect your card. This card is not just for the next election. You will not only use in 2015, you will use it in 2016, you will use it in 2019 for the governorship and presidential elections,” he noted.