INQUEST MEDIA GROUP: OBASEKI, LDS COMMISSION BOREHOLES TO FOSTER ACCESS...

INQUEST MEDIA GROUP: OBASEKI, LDS COMMISSION BOREHOLES TO FOSTER ACCESS...: OBASEKI, LDS COMMISSION BOREHOLES TO FOSTER ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER IN EDO COMMUNITIES by Eben ENasco Kingsley Latter day saint ...

Read More

OBASEKI, LDS COMMISSION BOREHOLES TO FOSTER ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER IN EDO COMMUNITIES

OBASEKI, LDS COMMISSION BOREHOLES TO FOSTER ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER IN EDO COMMUNITIES

by Eben ENasco Kingsley

Latter day saint charities (LDS) and Edo state government have commissioned the completed five thousand liter- boreholes water in Efosa and Ugbegun communities, Edo state, to advance the rights to clean water to the people.

The Borehole water project, which was drilled and donated by latter day saints in collaboration with the state government for domestic use, was aimed as part of its contributions to humanitarian interventions to provide quality access to healthy consumption of clean water in the rural communities and beyond.

Speaking while commissioning the water project, Governor Godwin Obaseki who was represented by Engineer Emmanuel ofoedu of the ministry of Energy and water resources said, governor Obaseki is very interested about giving water to the rural dwellers and the state at large.

“The Governor is so passionate about water and you will soon have more. The governor is always ready to make everybody happy. That is his own believe and idea. This is why we are here to support the donors on the water project, “he stated..

He appealed to the communities to imbibe the maintenance culture while appreciating their efforts in providing generator to power the boreholes. He added, “The community must ensure the project does not fail. With the generator provided by you, we are optimistic that you will uphold its values.

On his part, the Spokesperson for the Donors Latter Day Saint Charities, Elder Max Reynolds said they aim to alleviate poor water conditions in Africa and fulfill the needs of the people as he further stressed thus; “the needs include clean water and as part of their humanitarian intervention services across the world, they are more committed to take the people out of the shallow water consumption”.

However, Mrs. Juliet Igambor who is a residence in one of the benefitting communities says; we are now happy that we will no longer search for water. She commended the goodwill of the donors

For comrade Aghahowa Obayuwana, the secretary of Efosa Community said before now they had faced water hardship and thankfully they now have well designed industrial borehole water from LDS CHARITIES supported by the state government

In Ugbegun community in Edo Central, the situation was similar, as the His Royal Highness, Onojie Zarki Obaide the second of Ugbegun kingdom spoke on behalf of the people saying, the project was first applied for 2014 but now they have water celebrated by everyone in the community.

He said they are grateful to the donors and the state government for the feat thus far in providing clean water borehole for his people.

The access to Water project is an initiative promoted by the donors, the LDS Charities across African states and in extension the Collaborative drives of the state government is an example of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) implemented at local level which in furtherance, is an essential tool in governance

Read More

GROUP REITERATE COMMITMENT TO PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL AID TO MEDIA PRACTITIONERS IN EDO

GROUP REITERATE COMMITMENT TO PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL AID TO MEDIA PRACTITIONERS IN EDO

By Eben Enasco Kingsley

Entrepreneurial group, under the auspices of Multimedia Entrepreneurs’ Support Association, MESA, have restated its commitments to continue to work and give back up support to conventional media practitioners in Edo State.

This according to them will add more hazes and values to the media professionals in service delivery across every echelon in the State.

This was a message conveyed by the newly elected president of the group, Prince Austin Ogbeiwi while delivering his remarks shortly after the swearing-in ceremony held recently in Benin City.

Ogbeiwi who expressed optimisms over the privileged offered him to serve and collaborate with all sectors of media practitioners, maintained that the aims and objectives clearly behooves on him to projects the rights to welfare of its members

His words: ’’ I am delighted to stand before you here today to speak as the elected number one man of a renowned media enterprise group in Edo State. No doubt, nothing can better compare to be in the midst of media heavy weights that cut across prints and electronics media professionals in the state.

It is no longer news that, “whom much is giving much is expected”; hence I use this medium to reiterate my stand this day before my people that our clear mandate of adding values to media profession is sacrosanct.

This will be done by ensuring that we collectively work together to improve the wellbeing of every cameraman in the state. This is the message of core values upon which the foundation of our organization is built upon”.

He urged all to continue to believe in the core values of the organization to achieve the set aims and objectives.

In his opening remarks, the chairman electoral committee, Pastor Andrew Agbongiague thanked all for the opportunity given to him and members of his committee to conduct free, fair and credible election.

In the same vein, comrade Pater Anthony who served on interim capacity as president harped on the need to sustain the temple of the existing relationship amongst members.

Meanwhile, Edo State Council Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Sir Roland Osakue who was an invited guest on the occasion congratulated the group and the elected executives for conducting a peaceful election and charged them to be committed to the course.

The high point of the ceremony was the swearing-in and oath taking by the elected executives which was supervised by Barrister Genesis Odoyibo

Read More

AISHA BUHARI: PDP Challenge Nigerians to Vote out Government of Alleged “Two Powerful People”

AISHA BUHARI: PDP Challenge Nigerians to Vote out Government of Alleged “Two Powerful People”

By Eben Enasco Kingsley

Miffed by the recent comments of the wife of the Nigeria president Mrs. Aisha Buhari over the alleged hijack of President Muhammadu Buhari’s government by ‘’two powerful persons’’, the Leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Edo State is calling on Citizens to braze up ahead of the 2019 general election and recover their mandates from the ruling party, All Progressive Congress.APC.

The call which is against the backdrop of the recent statements accredited to Aisha Buhari over the government of Nigeria being held by “Two Powerful People” have generated reactions from Nigerians across the four walls of the country.

The comment has generated however, reactions from Nigerians and raised pertinent concerns over who is in charge of the present government, living the earnest faith of millions of Nigerians in absolute doubt

Her recent jibes on the government of President Buhari is the latest in series of her outburst and courage mustered to draw the attention of interests on the few cabals fierce grip on national development.

Recall that, Mrs. Aisha Buhari had on December 4, 2018 at a conference organized by project 4 plus 4 claimed that the government of President Muhammadu Buhari her husband have been hijacked by two powerful people

Although, she fails to mention the names of the alleged powerful persons

But then, with the recent call, the main opposition party, PDP, has showed concerns on the plights of the people and feast on the lapses established through the outburst.

Thereby, challenging Nigerians to vote out the government of president Buhari to abate the allegations of two persons frustrating the government

Speaking to the mammoth crowed and party supporters that besieged the campaign flag-off of Akoko Edo, Owan and Agbede in Edo North, the Chairman Peoples Democratic Party, Edo State, Chief Dan Osi  ORBIH, challenged citizens to take the comments into cognizant and vote out the government of president  Buhari.

Orbih in his words said; ‘’ I am here to respond to the call of Nigeria first lady Aisha Buhari who is asking the question. According to her this country is being governed by two people who we have never voted for. I know Akoko Edo will not want to continue under a government where two people are ruling the people. I want to challenge you to effect a change so that those two powerful people will not continue to govern when they don’t have the mandates of our people

Orbih thanked the people for their immense support for PDP urging them to continue to trust the party for the interest of all.

In a related development, some candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party, Mr. Bankole Balogun, PDP, Akoko Edo federal Constituency and Mr Andy Bayo Amonegan representing constituency 2 in the state house of Assembly, are poised to change the narrative of the Akoko Edo People.

They believe that with the vast mineral resources Akoko Edo is still under developed because they have not had true representatives

On youth development, they vowed to empower and build capacities that is far from donating wheelbarrows and motor cycles as well as takes Akoko Edo to enviable height.

Many Nigerians will stand with Aisha Buhari on her take on the state of the nation and expect to hear more of those heartbreaking stinging revelations, but then, the question is; will the cabals support her plights to perhaps sieve out who could be those two powerful persons frustrating the government has a lot to do in the coming elections

Read More

SUPER FALCONS WIN AWCON 2018

Super Falcons Wins AWCON 2018

BY Eben Enasco Kingsley

Nigeria have lifted the African cup of nation for the ninth time after defeating South-Africa.

Recall that the super Falcons lost to the Bayana Bayana a goal to nil in the group stage to qualify for the Final.

Although the Super Falcons played out a goalless draw against Banyana Banyana, after Asisat Oshoala had missed a penalty in the second half to seal the victory.

Linda Motlhalo missed her kick, which saw Chinaza Love Uchendu convert the penalty to a win. Nigeria defeated South-Africa 4 -3 on penalties.

Read More

Aviary Group Laud Obaseki's 2-year Achievments in Office

AVIARY GROUP LAUD OBASEKI’S 2-YEAR
ACHIEVEMENTS IN OFFICE

By EBEN ENASCO KINGSLEY

A nongovernmental group, Aviary Club of Nigeria Edo State Branch, has extolled the giant treads and achievements of the current administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki’s 2-year in office.

The group in its submission, disclosed that in the last years the body has closely followed some of the developmental activities of the governor in the state, which its says had informed its judgment.

The State Coordinator, Hope Iyare who had been very confidence of the governor’s ability to achieve more in the years to come, made the disclosure yesterday on the occasion of the 2018 ‘’ALAGHODARO, CHRISTENED PROGRESS’’ in the state capital.

“The Aviary Club of Nigeria congratulates his Excellency Governor Godwin Obaseki and the government of Edo state on the occasion of his two years in office.

Authoritatively, the governor has performed well in all sector of the state particularly on job creation, ICT development and enhancement of qualitative Educational reform system”, he stated

Iyare however pledged loyalty as well as unalloyed support for youth mentorship in eradicating all forms of social vices amongst them.

 

Read More

BEDC RENEWAL: EDOCSO TO LEAD CONSUMERS, OTHERS AGAINST SERVICE EXTENSION

BEDC RENEWAL: EDOCSO TO LEAD CONSUMERS, OTHERS AGAINST SERVICE EXTENSION

By Eben Enasco   Kingsley    

With less than a week before the expiration and probable extention of Operational License of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company, Edo Civil Society Organizations and consumers are poised for a show down protest against what they are alleging as non performance of the distribution company.

The anticipated mega protest as conveyed through the public Relations Officer, Leftist Edigin Osazee noted that the three days protest is in line with the planned extention of the Funke Osibudu led Distribution company by the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) with additional one year will commence on monday 29, 2018.

The statements which reads; "It is no longer secret that the Funke Osibudu led management had failed in all fronts in the distribution of electricity and customers’satisfaction.

"The people of Edo, Delta, Ondo and Ekiti states are fed up with Funke Osibudu the managing Director of Vigeo Holdings Limited, the operators of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company".

Leftist Edigin added that the Performance Agreement entered with the Federal Government elapses on the 31st of October, 2018 not the proposed extension of December, 2019 by the BPP.

He opined that BEDC operational  Licence must not be extended or renewed; stressing, "BPP and NERC cannot be compromised".

"This is to inform and invite the general public, communities, and users of electricity to peaceful protests" he stated.

Recall that the operational licences to operates in Edo, Ondo Ekiti and Delta State respectively was approved during president GoodLucķ Jonathan's administration.

Read More

Edo politics: Is Obaseki tbe Software still the Godfather's Stooge?

Edo Politics: Is Obaseki the "Software" Still the
Godfather's Stooge?

By Eben Enasco Kingsley

The Political Supremacy and Counter Supremacy in recent times in Edo State, has left the divides guessing.

And as it stands, the true picture is that nobody from the two camps seem to be taken their foots off the gas.

But in every battle, a winner must emerge.
The super supremacy tussles between political leaders of the same party's becoming very unbecoming.

To be precise, all political platforms in Nigeria are at a crossroad following
various decamping activities of some elements who are dissatisfied by what
they termed and believed "Imposition" of party loyalists against the run of play.

This has become more predominant with the
ruling party, the All Progressive Congress (APC).

Although, some are of the views that the major opposition party are the front burner in terms of this; but today even the blinds could see without third party’s interpretation.

The first jigsaw or litmus test was the party’s primary election which the party families claimed his level of impunity and imposition was uprooting the structure.

Countless of APC supporters alongside governors across the states are aggrieved over some bedroom decisions and have
since taken to the street
and party secretariats to register their
displeasures.

A number of times they have threatened to quit
the party as well to where they feel they
can get maximum recognition.

But for the swift interventions of some democrats within the party frame who have been courageous and able to convince
them, they have decided to wait for a second chance perhaps to see if anything good could come from
Bethlehem.

There are two major loyalist factors that may have been responsible for the
sudden hatred and rancor amongst its members.

For sure, the Adams Oshiomhole's and Godwin Obaseki's Loyalists factors.

For the records, Adams Oshiomhole was
Obaseki's Boss when he was the head of Economic Team some eight and a half
years ago.

Today, the political apprentice who patiently understudied his Boss is the governor.

Obaseki was a Trojan in Governor Oshiomhole's
administration.

If you recall, Oshiomhole once described him as
the "software" for his
usefulness to his administration. Iňfact, he was mostly involved in the project executed.

He was rated highly by his Boss and would soon be his choice.

Yes! He became his first and only Choice no
matter how hard the leadership tried to stop this ambition the Boss has spoken.

Catastrophe erupted between him and his deputy but for Oshiomhole's leadership guile he was able to subdue dicks and harries.
He fought against all odds to ensure Obaseki’s victory.

In tune, the expectation of who pays the piper
dictates the tune was
established.

And not many of the political party’s members irrespective of the affiliations
gave him a chance to take a decision on his own without consulting the Iyamoh warlord.

They branded him Oshiomhole’s Stooge. Let not forget also that posterity awaits everyone decisions.

Bu then, until we become loyal to anyone who assisted with a ladder of success we may not get same.

However when a child attains adulthood, its
normal to believe that the parents respects his position as an adult.

So Oshiomhole must understand that governance is a collective effort and
respect is reciprocal.

He should also not forget in a hurry how he
fought Anenhi who dominated the
state political space during PDPs reign.

As the National Chairman of the ruling party, he should learn how to concentrate
and deal with issues bothering on promises made by the party during electioneering.

He should be more conscious that the Governor is the number one party man in his
state and his decisions are significant and must be respected.

The carnival of plots to reduce the capacities of
the number one party man may turn around to hurt him and his co-travelers.

If the internal personal interest degenerates and cut the party off its
ideology other party will feed on their weaknesses.

Obaseki is believed to have staunched his heart against any probable threats emanating from the camp of the embattled
National Chairman as per reliable source.

According to another source he is more concerned about completing the projects
outlined within the tenure.

Stakeholders are not perturbed about personal differences between the duo
but sincerely hoped that Edo Politicians should
strive to deliver
democratic dividends irrespective of their interests.

With these expectations in mind they must resolve to move the state forward and worry less about whose “gorse is ox”

Read More

Edo Politics: Is Obaseki the "Software" Still the Godfather's Stooge?

By Eben Enasco Kingsley

The Political Supremacy and Counter Supremacy in recent times in Edo State, has left the divides guessing.

And as it stands, the true picture is that nobody from the two camps seem to be taken their foots off the gas.

But in every battle, a winner must emerge.
The super supremacy tussles between political leaders of the same party's becoming very unbecoming.

To be precise, all political platforms in Nigeria are at a crossroad following
various decamping activities of some elements who are dissatisfied by what they termed and believed "Imposition" of party loyalists against the run of play.

This has become more predominant with the
ruling party, the All Progressive Congress (APC).

Although, some are of the views that the major opposition party are the front burner in terms of this; but today even the blinds could see without third party’s interpretation.

The first jigsaw or litmus test was the party’s primary election which the party families claimed his level of impunity and imposition was uprooting the structure.

Countless of APC supporters alongside governors across the states are aggrieved over some bedroom decisions and have since taken to the street and party secretariats to register their displeasures.

A number of times they have threatened to quit
the party as well to where they feel they can get maximum recognition.

But for the swift interventions of some democrats within the party frame who have been courageous and able to convince them, they have decided to wait for a second chance perhaps to see if anything good could come from Bethlehem.

There are two major loyalist factors that may have been responsible for the sudden hatred and rancor amongst its members.

For sure, the Adams Oshiomhole's and Godwin Obaseki's Loyalists factors.

For the records, Adams Oshiomhole was Obaseki's Boss when he was the head of Economic Team some eight and a half years ago.

Today, the political apprentice who patiently understudied his Boss is the governor.

Obaseki was a Trojan in Governor Oshiomhole's
administration.

If you recall, Oshiomhole once described him as
the "software" for his
usefulness to his administration. Iňfact, he was mostly involved in the project executed.

He was rated highly by his Boss and would soon be his choice.

Yes! He became his first and only Choice no
matter how hard the leadership tried to stop this ambition the Boss has spoken.

Catastrophe erupted between him and his deputy but for Oshiomhole's leadership guile he was able to subdue dicks and harries.
He fought against all odds to ensure Obaseki’s victory.

In tune, the expectation of who pays the piper
dictates the tune was
established.

And not many of the political party’s members irrespective of the affiliations gave him a chance to take a decision on his own without consulting the Iyamoh warlord.

They branded him Oshiomhole’s Stooge. Let not forget also that posterity awaits everyone decisions.

Bu then, until we become loyal to anyone who assisted with a ladder of success we may not get same.

However when a child attains adulthood, its
normal to believe that the parents respects his position as an adult.

So Oshiomhole must understand that governance is a collective effort and
respect is reciprocal.

He should also not forget in a hurry how he fought Anenhi who dominated the state political space during PDPs reign.

As the National Chairman of the ruling party, he should learn how to concentrate
and deal with issues bothering on promises made by the party during electioneering.

He should be more conscious that the Governor is the number one party man in his state and his decisions are significant and must be respected.

The carnival of plots to reduce the capacities of
the number one party man may turn around to hurt him and his co-travelers.

If the internal personal interest degenerates and cut the party off its
ideology other party will feed on their weaknesses.

Obaseki is believed to have staunched his heart against any probable threats emanating from the camp of the embattled National Chairman as per reliable source.

According to another source he is more concerned about completing the projects
outlined within the tenure.

Stakeholders are not perturbed about personal differences between the duo
but sincerely hoped that Edo Politicians should
strive to deliver
democratic dividends irrespective of their interests.

With these expectations in mind they must resolve to move the state forward and worry less about whose “gorse is ox”

Read More

BEDC: Agency of Oppression who fails to listen to the flies

BEDC: Agency of "Oppression" who Fails to listen to the Flies

By Eben Enasco Kingsley

The Benin Electricity Development Company BEDC, sometime ago took the responsibilities of providing uninterrupted power supply to the consumers spanning across four states, Edo, Delta, Ondo and Ekiti State.

Their presence and relevance became possible because, Nigeria Electricity Power Authority,NEPA Failed and lost its steam to adequately power the Country.

The Power Supply detororated and hope dashed.

Since NEPA saddled with the responsibilities delivered poorly, the need to have autonomous power supply became imparative.

Nigerians were unanimous in thier quest to have a steady power supply and consumption.

The government of Goodluck Jonathan in 2013 requested for Bidding from independent corporate bodies while the privatization process had been established.

And behold expression of interests on major dailies circulated across the lenght and breath.

The Bidders for the right to privatize the power sector cummulated and a winner emerged.

It was Funke osibudu the Ex-Uion Bank Boss who got the nod having polled the lowest commercial and Technical appraisals and its evaluation as mandated in procurement rules.

The tide was trending and consumers expectation were high.

They had believed that the power supply was going to improve sequentially.

Before long, the fortunes of those who expected a better living through the hype of the new owners  hit a snag.

Although the supply  stabilized for a peroid but got worst off after the pingping-hellish- hackers lost the true reasons for embarking on these project.

No matter how hard no consumer is happy with what they consume because they consume less and pay more.

Even those who awarded the contract are increasingly unhappy with the outgoing tenant on this.

The metering system is never a standard good enough for the consumers.

In their quest to hoodwink consumers BEDC they told all they were ready to improve electricity Consumption

According to them,"As part of our commitment to efficient service delivery, we aim to meter our customers in not more than 45 days after payment has been made".

They have been negatively way off this statement

They have become "An Agency of oppression and never would listen to the flies".

Edo CSO in a statement  issued sometime ago by its Spokesperson, Leftist Osazee Edigin claimed that the electricity distribution company  is in contrary to what is on ground.

On the issue of Procurement of transformer consumers buy their transformers themselves because BEDC would not.

The network however called on electricity
regulatory bodies and the federal government to investigate BEDC’s claim.

In the publication made
available in the company’s Website
( www.bedcpower.com
< http://www bedcpower.com >)

“NERC, Bureau for Public Procurement and The Minister for Power must investigate these lies told in this publication by
the Benin Electricity
Distribution company.”

The statement is reproduced here:

“Funke Osibudu led management team of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company has failed the expectations of the
people on what the unbundling of the power sector which was hoped to address the perennial energy challenges of the Nation seeks to achieve"

Lately, the chairman of the State Council of Obas and the traditional ruler of Ikare Akoko, Oba Akadiri Momoh passed vote of no confidence on the electricity company a statement he made in Akure, Ondo State.

He described the activities and services of the BEDC in the state as “antithetical to the
purpose it was established”even as its called on the Federal Government to consider a better option for good and efficient services.

Similarly, in Edo State the governor, Godwin Obaseki described BEDC while commissioning the substaion at Okpilla in Edo North as "frustrating"

But today, they resolved in taking the presure group to court to restrain them on further protest against their continous onslaught on consumers.

Let me shock you, BEDC staff joined EDOCSO in court and plans to down tools soonest.

Recall that the management of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) instituted a civil case against Communities, civil society groups and youth groups, they  prayed the court to grant them a perpetual injunction to restrain the aforementioned from protesting against its unfair business dealings against the people.

They went further to demand the sum of N500, 000, 000 (500 million naira) as compensation from the civil society group.

The case came up for hearing Tuesday but later adjourned till the 14th of November, 2018 for time to enable other defendants respond to the claims by the BEDC.

EDOCSO, represented by Osagie Obayuwana’s chambers and duly supported by Barrister Osamwonyi Ibude, Douglas Ogbankwa were unavoidably absent.

Some angry staff of the BEDC were in court as well in solidarity with Edo Civil Society Organisations,

They believed  their poor working conditions which are not different from modern day slavery informed their support

They earlier informed EDOCSO how they are given financial targets to meet by the embattled Funke Osibudu irrespective of whether services were rendered or not.

One of them who pleaded on anonimity disclosed that; "there is a massive mobilization of their colleagues to down tool any moment from now as they cannot continue to bear the high headedness of the management whose primary mission is to milk the customers while supplying darkness.

Addressing supporters,the Coordinator General of Edo Civil Society Organisations, Leftist Omobude Agho sent a strong warning to the management of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) owing to its subtle tactics recently in ensuring that the performance review agreement between the DISCOs and Federal Government get an extension till 2019 against the stipulated 1st November, 2018 in the agreement.

He stressed that, the people have not enjoyed any improvement of electricity supply since its privatization

He reiterated their stand against the renewal of the licence of BEDC By the authorities

FUNKE AND HER INEPT MANAGEMENT MUST GO" the group insist

Read More

Read More

PUWOV DEBUNKS ALLEGED CULT KILLINGS OF MEMBER IN EDO

PUWOV DEBUNKS ALLEGED CULT KILLINGS OF MEMBER IN EDO

By Eben Enasco Kingsley

Edo State Coordinator, Public Works Volunteers( PUWOV), Mukhter Yusuf - Osagie has debunked media report involving alleged killing of its member, an adhoc -staff in a recent cult related issues in the state.

In a statement made available to newsmen in Benin City, the state capital, Osagie said the group has neither adhoc - staff nor any of its members killed.

It would be recalled that palpable fear griped residents of Benin City last week following
unprecedented killings of persons in different parts of the city over what appeared to be renewed clash between rival cult groups.

In a recent publication credited to “The nation newspaper of Monday October 15, 2018 page 5 and captioned “20 killed in Edo Cult clashes” the author of the story noted that “an adhoc staff of the public works volunteers was one of those killed in a ferocious cult clashes living several persons dead and business at low ebb in the state capital”

Similarly, in what seems to be more of a repeated publication captioned, “Benin City Cult Killings Vindicate AAU” of Wednesday October 17, 2018 on page 18, another author extracted a paragraph from the original author of the Wednesday edition of the Nation newspaper, which stated  and I quote” a recent clash between two rival group and an adhoc worker of the Edo state owned public work Volunteers whose identity could not be confirmed was killed at his duty post at a popular third junction in Benin City”

In a recent investigation carried out by The Inquestnews, the victim of the cult killings was revealed as a Bus driver on eye witness account.

 The eyewitness who pleaded on anonymity stated that the deceased plies between popular third junction and Sapele road axis, and was also the Vice Chairman of the terminal bus park.

He further stated that the said victim was not a staff of the Public Work Volunteer

Reacting, the State Coordinator of PUWOV, Mukhter Yusuf - Osagie described the publication as a deliberate effort to tarnish the good work of the group and Governor Godwin Obaseki's in the state.

He added that members are not only intact but working assiduously to ensure free flow of traffic and obstruction on roads in Benin.

Osagie however, urged the people to disregard such news and should not be taken seriously as that could stem unnecessary panic amongst members of the public who have trusted the good job done so far  

Meanwhile the state police command on Tuesday paraded no fewer than 72 suspects over crime related issues involving armed robbery, cultism and kidnapping State commissioner of police, Mr Johnson Kokomo said 58 cult members linked to the recent killings of eight persons in different location in the state were among those paraded

Read More

PUWOV DEBUNKS ALLEGED CULT KILLINGS OF MEMBER IN EDO

PUWOV DEBUNKS ALLEGED CULT KILLINGS OF MEMBER IN EDO

By Eben Enasco Kingsley

Edo State Coordinator,  Public Works Vounteers
( PUWOV), Mukhter Yusuf - Osagie has debunked
media report involving alleged killing of its
member, an adhoc -staff in a recent cult related issues in the state.

In a statement made available to newsmen in
Benin City, the state capital, Osagie said the group has neither adhoc - staff nor any of its members killed.

It would be recalled that palpable fear griped
residents of Benin City last week following
unprecedented killings of persons in different parts
of the city over what appeared to be renewed clash between rival cult groups.

In recent publication credited to the nation newspaper of monday and wednesday edition alleged killing of adhoc staff of the public work volunter.

Osagie who described the publication as a deliberate effort to tarnish the good work of Governor Godwin Obaseki's gh in the state , said its members are not only intact but working assiduously to ensure free flow of traffic and obstruction on roads in Benin.

Although he confirmed the victim of the cult killings as a Bus driver who plies between popular third junction and sapele road axis, stressing that the said victim is not a staff of the public Volunters.

Meanwhile the state police command on Tuesday
paraded no fewer than 72 suspects over crime
related issues involving armed robbery, cultism
and kidnapping State commissioner of police, Mr Johnson Kokomo said 58 cult members linked to the
recent killings of eight persons in different
location in the state were among those paraded

Read More

EDO IDPS Running out of Resources as Humanitarian Plights under neglect

EDO IDP"S Running out of Resources as Humanitarian Plights under neglect

EBEN ENASCO KINGSLEY

The International Christian Center Uhuogua Ovia North East Local Government Area in Edo State is the host camp to People displaced by Boko Haram violence.

With over three thousand of the displaced persons seeking asylum at the Christian Center, hopes for a better care is gradually fading with limited resources.

Inquestnews in this report revealed that since the advent of the deadly group, more than two million people were reportedly forced out from their homes.

 And at the last counts in Edo State, over three thousand internally displaced persons are sheltered by the Christian faith based organization.

Although, feeding a major challenge at the camp as disclosed by the caregivers

But they believed having skills acquisition empowerment scheme center is a major priority

With limited resources, they are now running shot of food items and other relieve materials

And they are in need for more support from government at all levels.

Although, private individuals and state government have also acclaimed to be supportive, but they are more concerned over the plights of the health and accommodation facilities.

Pastor Evelyn Omigie Co-Coordinator of the camp who confirmed the worsening case of health facilities in the camp appealed to good hearted Nigerians to help out.

She said, “We have a lot of challenges here. In this place we cook over 15bags of rice per meal and that’s huge amount of cooking. We need anti-malaria medicine; we need injections and other medical items. We also need sewing machines for those who have gone through trainings. We also need food items

Some of the displaced persons believe when a child is thankful in a gesture offered him, he is asking for more of the same.

However, there are some organizations that are challenged and have visited the camp

EDUCATION AND REORIENTATION OF IDPS

Looking at the backgrounds of the displaced persons in Uhuogua and other camps across the society, the most important of all is to re-orientate these ones that have lost barely all.

With various windows that have presented itself to government at all levels it is obvious that government hardly put this as a priority to embark on.

Although there have been serious monies voted to keep the hope of these needy on but went to privates pockets for their selfish gains

This however prodded the IDP caregivers pastor Solomon Folorunso at Uhuogua to painstakingly vowed to ensure his dependants are given the right education

And today, 25 persons gainfully admitted to study at various universities. 15 of the admitted are from the North East and ten others from southern Nigeria. With five of the student of medicine and surgery and six studying law. Others admitted to various departments across the universities.

Some time ago it was gathered that scores of the IDPS have graduated and gainfully employed.

With several calls for relieve items; it is therefore believed that hopes are underway for sustainability.

The implication of the feat achieved is enormous and needs a complement from all to make the displaced more useful to themselves and the larger society

Read More

IKPOBA OKHA LGA: OSAYANDE SETTING THE TEMPLATES OF DEVELOPMENT PART ONE (1)

IKPOBA OKHA LGA:  OSAYANDE SETTING THE TEMPLATES OF DEVELOPMENT PART ONE (1)

By Eben Enasco Kingsley 

The people of Ikpoba Okha Local Council in Edo State are at the moment witnessing strings of unbelievable infrastructural development.

The feats which have been lauded by political divides are a proof reposed on his ability by his kinsmen while he was seeking to be elected to lead the lines.

The new face of development which is credited to the hard working administration of Eric Osayande the council Chairman is believed to have surpassed other administration in the shortest time

Osayande like no other, has designed a template of infrastructural landslide projects spanning across wards which is a prove of placing a round pole in a round hole

Since elected, the almost non existing staffers were re-jigged to function in their various offices to full capacity.  

This was only made possible through monthly engagement of his allied soldiers in the council to chat productive caprice and deliver the dividends of democracy.

Like Tinubu who described Ambode as a no party man, Osayande has been able to carry along leaders of the party through deliverable micro projects whilst project to prove a distinctiveness

Although the trained administrator was given little or no chance to survive during his nominations and eventual victory by some of the political leaders but stemmed off barricades in his first approach and soon become the council gaffer.

In recent times the inspection team led by the astute chief press secretary of the council, Esosa Ewere were on ground to inspect some of the ongoing projects heralding the administration of Osayande commitment to duty.

First, in line with his developmental policies the ongoing construction of Oregbeni Market in ward two has reached a roofing stage. And on completion the building will accommodate more traders

At Ohovbe market in ward 3, the story is the same testament but with more expanded ground breaking construction activities.

Osayande who raised awareness on women participation in governance is known for given quality education to his people that are foremost in his drums of project activity.

Not limited to the awareness on quality Education, Esosa said they have also collaborated with non state actors on creating skills acquisition center that will enhance human capacity productivity in the council.

However, in all of this achievement, there are challenges limiting the actualization of full productivity, and Esosa Ewere says, “There are challenges from market women, capacity development, political allies, finance, disobedient and infrastructural decays. These and more are majors you face. There are some persons who want to be furnished financially everyday but when it comes to work they are weak. But then I believe the chairman knew from onset and he is use to it”

Ewere while commending the administration said his disposition towards the people reflects his administrative prowess and has commonly craves for more virtues in the future that is to come

Read More

2019 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION: OPPOSITIONS MOUNT AGAINST BUHARI'S RE-ELECTION BID

2019 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION: OPPOSITIONS MOUNT AGAINST BUHARI'S RE-ELECTION BID

BY EBEN ENASCO KINGSLEY

At the deadline of submission by winners of primary elections held across political parties in Nigeria to nominate its candidates, at least 39 political parties have allegedly teamed up in a bid to unseat the incumbent, President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2019 Election.

Opposition parties in Nigeria have come together to form a political coalition aimed at preventing President Muhammadu Buhari  from winning a second consecutive term in next year's elections.

The tensed political space is fully overwhelmed with interest from groups who are unimpressed with the policies of the incumbent government to lunch inter-political- missiles against what they adjudged as failed momentum.

Thirty-nine registered political forces, including the main opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP) and a splinter group from within the ruling party, signed an agreement late on Monday to form the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP).

Kola Ologbondiyan, PDP spokesperson, while speaking on the development described the parties' teaming up as a bold statement to demonstrate the "feelings of Nigerians" about Buhari's government.

"More parties will still join the coalition and we will bring up a candidate whose capacity will trounce Buhari's alleged incompetence in governance," Ologbondiyan told Al Jazeera on Tuesday.

He added "We are a nation of 185 million people. No alliance can be 'so many'. Nigerians have already reached a consensus to source for a new president on the platform of the rebranded and repositioned PDP".

But the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissed the move, saying the efforts to unseat Buhari would fail.

APC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi insisted the party remains united.

"We once again reiterate the commitment of our party to address real grievances of our genuine members. We call on them to take advantage of this opportunity while the windows for reconciliation are still open," Abdullahi said in a statement.

"We are confident that no level of gang-up can make our government under President Buhari to waver in its promises to Nigerians to rid our country of corruption and improve the quality of lives for our people," he said.

The Internal rift in APC

The formation of the new coalition comes as Nigeria witnesses one of its biggest political re-alignments in recent years.

This has not spared Buhari's APC, as a major block within the ruling party broke away days ago to join forces with the opposition. 

The splinter group of disaffected APC members led by Buhari's former ally, Buba Galadima, criticized the president's three years in power as "a monumental disaster".

"After more than three years of governance, our hopes have been betrayed, our expectations completely dashed. The APC has run a rudderless, inept and incompetent government that has failed to deliver good governance to the Nigerian people," Galadima said in a statement.

Oppositions

In 2015, Buhari secured 53.9 percent of the votes to become the first opposition candidate in Nigeria to defeat an incumbent at the ballot box. His victory over former President Goodluck Jonathan prompted spontaneous celebrations among supporters across the country. 

The president has huge grassroots support. He is also known as one of the few leaders in the country's history who has been tough on corruption.

But with few elements in his cabinet accused of corruption, it is unclear if the integrity in the man his people trusted still in validity.

In April, 75-year-old Buhari announced his plan to seek a second four-year term, despite concerns about his age and health - last year, the president spent several months in UK where he received treatment for an "undisclosed "health challenge".

But Buhari's intention to run again did not go down well with some of his political allies, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo who joined the opposition alliance against his candidacy.

The CUPP is expected over the next few months to present a common candidate to run against Buhari.

Atiku Abubakar, 71, a former vice president and erstwhile Buhari ally, is the most prominent figure so far presented by the main opposition party having polled more votes in the just concluded Peoples Democratic Party’s Primary Election held in Portharcourt

But some political analysts said it's too early to assess the CUPP's chances, raising concerns about the objectives of those opposing Buhari.

"Do the persons involved in this process represent the best our country can offer? I have my doubts because we have seen same persons manage our affairs since 1999 and their ideas remain the same," said Achilleus-Chud Uchegbu, a journalist and political commentator. 

"They lack ideologies that would build societies. Their ideas are ego-driven," added Uchegbu.

'The Not too young to run syndrome'

Buhari is the oldest person to lead Nigeria since the transition to civilian government in 1999.

In May, he signed a new bill into law that reduced the minimum age for political offices to encourage youth to run for public office. For the presidency, the minimum age was brought down to 35 from 40.

Still, youth activists believe the system is still skewed towards political veterans.

"Same old politicians are aligning and forming coalitions to clinch or retain power in 2019; where does this leave the youth?" Chioma Agwuegbo told Al Jazeera.

"It leaves youths in the political parties making coalitions and making their voices heard like the other members of their party," she said.

Ahead of his election in 2015, Buhari promised to tackle Boko Haram - an armed group that has carried out a deadly armed campaign for over a decade - as well as fight corruption, revive the economy and provide jobs.

Some of the areas occupied by Boko Haram have been recovered and the group has been largely reduced to suicide bombings and intermittent attacks.

Corruption remains a big problem in Nigeria, perceived by many as the root of the country’s poverty.

Attacks in the oil-rich Niger Delta and resurgence of separatist sentiments, which flared up during early days of Buhari's tenure, have calmed.

With Nigeria is scheduled to hold elections on February 16, 2019, there are concerns, however, over clashes between nomadic herders and farmers which have claimed the lives of hundreds and displaced thousands, as well as question marks about whether Buhari is fit to run again given his heath.

No matter how good government policies may look, if the lives of its citizenry remain insecure the government would have failed in its primary obligations.

This has raise serious dust amongst the people thereby incubating other alternative to unseat President Muhammadu Buhari in office.

Read More

FAULTY TRANSFORMER: TCN BOOST OGHARA SUBSTATION IN DELTA STATE

FAULTY TRANSFORMER: TCN BOOST OGHARA SUBSTATION IN DELTA STATE.

BY EBEN ENASCO KINGSLEY

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has stated that it has completed repairs on the 30MVA 132/33kV power transformer in its Oghara Transmission Substation, Delta State.

The power transformer which was installed by NDDC in September, 2016, was repaired and energized on September 29, 2019.

According to the General Manager (Public Affairs), TCN, Ndidi Mbah, informed that after the 30MVA power transformer tripped on differential protection, the Neutral Bushing of the transformer had lost its insulation and required replacement.

The inquest news reveals that Efforts to get replacement bushing anywhere in the system failed as TCN did not have the transformer brand elsewhere in its system.

It also stated that Spares were not also made available as part of the contract by NDDC.

“As last resort, TCN ordered for the transformer’s brand of bushing abroad, this was delivered and conveyed to Oghara Transmission Substation on September21, 2018. Replacement of the bushing was carried out in-house by TCN engineers, after installation, filtration and testing of the transformer were duly carried out, before the transformer was restored to service in September, 2018”, she remarked.

Continuing, she explained that, “By this repair, TCN had fully resumed the transmission of bulk electricity to Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) through the Oghara Substation. Consequently IBEDC is expected to stop load shedding and resume normal supply to Teaching Hospital and Oghara Township.

The statement however revealed that the Oghara Transmission Substation is a 2x30MVA 132/33kV capacity substation constructed by NDPHC and commissioned in March, 2015.

It would be recalled that barely one year after commissioning, the Neutral Bushing of the first 30MVA power transformer developedfault on the 19^th of June, 2016. The second one was however in service until it equally developed fault in 10^th of May, 2018. TCN noted that ithad procured enough spares andhave also commenced repairs on the other transformer.

General Manager (Public Affairs), TCN, Ndidi Mbah though Expressed gratitude to electricity consumers affected by the Oghara Substation Fault, for their patience during the period but pledged to continue to ensure prompt resolution to any fault on the nation’s transmission network.

She also assured that necessary steps for the fortification and standardization of substations, lines and major equipment all over the country have been taken.

Read More