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WORK RESUMES ON NAZE-NEKEDE-IHEAGWA-OBINZE ROAD.

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The ongoing reconstruction of Naze-Nekede-Iheagwa-Obinze road has begun as construction continues in full force with a focus on enhancing connectivity and facilitating economic growth.

Naze-Nekede-Iheagwa-Obinze road project which includes the building of a three-span bridge linking Obinze and Portharcourt road will significantly improve the road’s functionality upon completion in the coming months.

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Edo State Government Clarifies Governor’s Remarks on Security Protocols

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2 hours ago

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July 20, 2025

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The Edo State Government has issued a statement addressing misinterpretations surrounding Governor Monday Okpebholo’s recent remarks on security protocols for high-profile visitors.

According to the government, the Governor did not threaten former presidential candidate Peter Obi, but rather emphasized the importance of notifying and seeking security clearance before public engagements in the state.

Security Clearance: High-profile individuals, particularly politically exposed persons, are expected to notify and seek security clearance from the Governor before public engagements in Edo State.
 As Chief Security Officer, Governor Okpebholo is constitutionally responsible for safeguarding lives and property in the state.
The Governor’s position is informed by rising attacks and abductions of religious leaders, including Catholic priests and Christian clerics, in Edo State.
 The government advises caution and consultation with security channels when making public donations to avoid exposing institutions and leaders to danger.
Governor Okpebholo’s administration is working to address insecurity and ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all Nigerians.

Governor Okpebholo has been working to enhance security in Edo State, including suspending illegal vigilante groups and the Commander of the State Security Corps, Friday Ibadin, following the killing of 16 hunters in Uromi.

The government has reiterated its commitment to justice and transparency in investigating such incidents.

The Edo State Government urges leaders to align with security protocols and realities, prioritizing the safety of all residents and visitors. By working together, the government aims to create a secure environment for everyone.

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Okpebholo’s remarks against Obi dangerous assault on democracy – CSOs

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2 hours ago

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July 20, 2025

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Three civil society organisations have condemned the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, over a viral video where he threatened Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party.

The groups, ImpactHouse Centre for Development Communication, Accountability Lab Nigeria, and Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) described the Governor’s remarks as dangerous, undemocratic, and a clear threat to peace and political freedom.

In the video, Governor Okpebholo was heard telling his supporters that Mr. Obi should not enter Edo State without his permission.

“His security will never be guaranteed… Whatever happens to him, he will take it… I am the new sheriff in town,” Gov Okpebholo said while addressing party supporters during the defection of a federal lawmaker to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The organisations said such statements are unacceptable, especially coming from a sitting Governor whose duty is to protect all citizens, regardless of their political views.

“These are not offhand political jests. They constitute a direct threat to the life and liberty of a fellow citizen. More disturbingly, these remarks come from a sitting Governor whose primary constitutional responsibility is to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors within his state, irrespective of political affiliation, ethnic origin, or belief.

“Such a public display of intolerance, authoritarian bravado, and politicisation of state power should deeply worry every Nigerian and every international stakeholder who invested in the survival of democratic governance in Nigeria.”

They warned that the Governor’s words could incite political violence and intimidate opposition voices ahead of the 2026 governorship election in the state.

“Mr. Peter Obi, like every Nigerian, has the right to move freely, express his opinion, and associate with any political group. No Governor or politician has the right to stop him or any other citizen from exercising these rights.

“Saying ‘your security will not be guaranteed’ suggests that the Governor is using the state’s security forces for political purposes. This is a serious warning sign that the security agencies are no longer neutral and it also goes against Nigeria’s commitment to protect people’s rights under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights,” the group said in a statement jointly signed.

The civil society organisations also raised concern that this is not the first time Mr. Obi has faced threats while visiting a state.

They recalled a similar incident in Benue State in April 2025.

They called on Governor Okpebholo to publicly withdraw his statement and apologise.

“We want the Governor to take back his words and assure Nigerians that everyone, regardless of political party, is safe in Edo,” they said.

They also called on the Nigeria Police and the State Security Service to investigate the threat and protect political figures facing intimidation.

The group’s further urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take note of the development and include it in its election risk assessments for Edo.

Finally, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) was asked to launch an investigation into the matter.

“Nigeria’s democracy is imperfect, but threats like this bring us closer to its total derailment. Governor Okpebholo’s statements are not mere political rhetoric; they represent a clear and present danger to democratic peace, political pluralism, and the rule of law in Nigeria. We remind the Governor and all public officeholders that power is held in trust, not as an entitlement, and that democratic societies thrive on competition, not coercion,” the groups concluded.

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Constitutional review: Nigeria needs inclusive, restructured economy – Otti

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6 hours ago

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July 20, 2025

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Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has called for a practical and people-focused approach to constitutional reforms in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for inclusivity, economic restructuring to achieve national unity.

Speaking at the South East zonal public hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution on Saturday, Governor Otti stressed that the Nigerian constitution must evolve with the dynamic aspirations of the citizens.

Represented by his Deputy, Ikechuckwu Emetu, Governor Otti highlighted the importance of inclusivity in governance, citing Abia State’s approach to resource allocation and decision-making as a model.

He noted that the legitimacy of a constitution in a pluralistic society like Nigeria depends on the contributions of all ethnic, religious, and cultural groups.
and expressed reservations about creating of new States, citing enormous cost implications and potential expansion of bureaucracy.

Speaking further, the Abia Governor supported the creation of State Police, but emphasized the need for clear standards for leadership, coordination, recruitment, accountability, and human rights protection when created.

He cautioned on full local government autonomy, warning of increased financial and bureaucratic burdens and
advocated for constitutional recognition of free and compulsory basic education, emphasizing the need for increased financing and quality delivery.

Governor Otti also cited Abia State’s recent electricity reforms as a case study in the positive impact of constitutional changes. .

Following amendments that allowed sub- national entities to participate in the electricity sector, he said Abia established the Abia State Electricity Regulatory Agency (ASERA) and received regulatory oversight from the national commission (NERC) which he said has empowered Abia to take control of its energy future.

In his speech, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, described the hearings as “a national conversation” that must produce a constitution that reflects the hopes and values of all Nigerians.

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