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Showing posts from July, 2024

Condemning the Rush to Judgment: Governor Obaseki's Misguided Indictment and Inflammatory Rhetoric

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In the aftermath of the tragic killing of Inspector Akor Onuh, a mobile policeman, during a political event in Edo State, Governor Godwin Obaseki made a hasty and ill-advised decision to indict Philip Shaibu and Tony Kabaka without a thorough investigation. This rushed judgment not only undermines the due process but also raises questions about the governor's commitment to justice and fairness. Without a comprehensive investigation, it is impossible to determine the true culprits behind this heinous act. By singling out individuals based on political motives rather than evidence, Governor Obaseki has compromised the integrity of the justice system and fueled further division within the state. We must demand a fair and impartial investigation to ensure that those responsible for Inspector Onuh's death are held accountable. Furthermore, Governor Obaseki's recent inflammatory remarks, threatening the opposition party with dire consequences should another shooting occur, are de...

PRESS CONFERENCE BY THE EDO STATE COMMISSIONER FOR COMMUNICATION AND ORIENTATION, CHRIS NEHIKHARE, ON THE RECENT BREACH OF PUBLIC PEACE, LAW AND ORDER WITHIN THE BENIN METROPOLIS

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  Following the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, which faulted the impeachment of the former deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, the Edo State Government immediately filed a notice of appeal and stay of execution on the judgement, as it is the government’s right. This we have since communicated to the relevant authorities, including the Police, in accordance with the law. The filing of a stay of execution in response to a court order or judgement means that the status quo is maintained by all parties. Therefore, Philip Shaibu remains impeached as the deputy Governor of Edo State until the Appeal Court decides otherwise. More so, the enforcement of a court judgment is neither carried out by the parties involved nor their hirelings, but by law enforcement agents. But in a blatant disregard for the stay of execution as well as law and order, Philip Shaibu mobilized thugs armed with sophisticated weapons within and outside the Airport compound in a ...

Tragedy in Edo State: Negligence, Political Agendas, and the Loss of a Valiant Officer

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  The recent incident in Edo State, where a police officer lost his life amidst political celebrations, has left many questioning the priorities and values of those in power. Rather than providing first aid to the fallen officer, he was used as a political prop, paraded around while severely shot, instead of receiving the urgent care he so desperately needed. This blatant disregard for human life and the well-being of those who serve to protect us must not be overlooked or forgotten. As the number one citizen of Edo State, Governor Godwin Obaseki has a responsibility to work closely with the Inspector General of Police to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous act are brought to justice. Swift and decisive action is crucial in demonstrating that such negligence and callousness will not be tolerated in our society. The fallen officer's family, friends, and colleagues deserve to see accountability for this tragic loss of life. Additionally, the decision of Philip Shaibu to rejo...

University of Benin Honors Professor (Bishop) Osarhieme Benson Osadolor as an Icon

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Dr. Osarhieme Benson Osadolor is Professor of History and International Studies, University of Benin, Nigeria. He earned the Doctor of Philosophy degree in African History from the University of Hamburg, Germany in 2001 and has had a successful career in the University where he has taught in Nigeria, the United States and Europe.  Prof. Osadolor began his career as Assistant lecturer at the University of Ibadan in 1988 and has won several laurels, prizes and grants.  He is a recipient of the United States Senior Fulbright Scholar Award (2008), the German Academic Exchange Scholar Award Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst DAAD (1995), and a Laureate of the Governance Institute (1994) of the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA). Professor Osadolor is an exceptional Nigerian Professor who has taught at Morgan State University, Baltimore, Maryland (2008/2009 academic session) where he was also engaged in the African Seminar at the Johns H...

Cop killed as gunmen attack Shaibu, Okpebholo’s convoy in Benin

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  A police officer identified as Okon, attached to the All Progressives Congress candidate in the September 21 governorship election, Monday Okpebholo, was killed after mobs attacked the convoy of his principal and that of reinstated deputy governor of the state, Philip Shaibu, in Benin on Thursday after leaving the Benin Airport. Shaibu, who was impeached by the State House of Assembly on April 8, but was reinstated on Wednesday after Justice J.K. Omotosho of the Abuja High Court ruled that he was unjustly impeached. Shaibu and Okpebholo arrived at the Benin Airport around 2 pm to the rousing welcome of supporters. Airport staff told The PUNCH that the way police officers acted around Shaibu was a sign that something bad would happen. He said, “When the plane landed, the way the police officers acted around Shaibu showed that something terrible was going to happen. “I saw the policeman that was killed. He was outside the VIP lounge waiting for Shaibu’s arrival. I didn’t know that ...

Omobayo Marvellous Godwins remains Edo State Deputy Governor

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  Following the Federal High Court, Abuja judgement that faulted the impeachment of the erstwhile deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, the Edo State Government has filed a stay of execution of the judgement. Pending the hearing of the appeal of the judgement, the incumbent Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Omobayo Marvellous Godwins remains and continues to serve as the valid deputy Governor of Edo State. He will continue to serve in this capacity and would be recognized as such. The government hereby calls on the people of Edo State to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses. Chris Osa Nehikhare Commissioner for Communication and Orientation July 17, 2024