Oblongata News update

 PRESS RELEASE  NO 508/ EDSGH/2026 OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR, EDO STATE  IPAC Commends Gov. Okpebholo for Conducting Free, Fair and Credible LG Election The Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Dr. Bishop Akhalamhe, has commended Edo Gov. Monday Okpebholo for conducting a free, fair and credible local government election in the state. Akhalamhe, who led other members of the IPAC executive on a courtesy visit to the governor at the Government House, said the election was adjudged one of the best ever conducted in Edo State. He said IPAC was ready to continue collaborating with the Okpebholo led administration to ensure the governor delivers good governance to the people of Edo State. “Election has come and gone, but we congratulate you on the success of the election as winners have emerged. “The election was free, fair and credible with no issues. We will collaborate with the local government chairmen and ensure they succeed because if they succeed, it is the ...

 ABIA @ 35 A JOURNEY OF HISTORY, HOPE, UNITY AND PROGRESS On this historic and remarkable occasion of the 35th Anniversary of the creation of Abia State, I, Comrade Mark Anthony Chinedu (Hon. Senator), with immense pride and profound gratitude, join my principal and leader, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Founder and President of Masters Energy Group, together with the good people of Abia State, to celebrate our beloved God’s Own State. Abia State was created on 27 August 1991 by the Federal Military Government under the administration of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, carved out of the former Imo State. Since its creation, Abia has grown from a newly established state into a land of remarkable people, extraordinary enterprise, rich culture, intellectual excellence and immense economic potential. For 35 years, the story of Abia has been a story of resilience. It is the story of men and women who have continued to build, tr...

 HON. OYAKHILOME BELLO CELEBRATES EDO STATE AT 35 A LEGACY OF GREATNESS, UNITY AND RENEWED HOPE The APC-USA National Youth Leader, Hon. Oyakhilome Bello, warmly felicitates with the Executive Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the government and the good people of Edo State as the state marks its historic 35th anniversary. Created on 27 August 1991 from the former Bendel State, Edo has grown into a proud symbol of history, culture, resilience and excellence. Rightly known as the Heartbeat of the Nation, Edo State occupies a special place in Nigeria's story, with its people making remarkable contributions to national development and distinguishing themselves across the world through courage, enterprise and excellence. As we celebrate Edo @35, we honour our heritage, salute the sacrifices of our founding fathers and celebrate the resilient people of Edo State at home and in the diaspora, whose strength, creativity and determination continue to bring hono...

 Today, as Edo State marks 35 years since its creation, I extend my warmest greetings to all Edo people at home and in the Diaspora. The creation of Edo State on August 27, 1991, was a defining moment in our history. Thirty-five years later, we celebrate not only how far we have come, but also the responsibility we carry to build on the foundation laid by those before us and create an even better future for generations to come. Edo is blessed with a rich cultural heritage, talented and resilient people, vast economic potential and a strategic position that gives us an important role in Nigeria’s development. Our greatest strength, however, remains our people, their courage, creativity, enterprise and determination to see our state prosper. As a government, we recognise that the work of development cannot be achieved through words alone. It requires consistent action, responsible leadership and a commitment to delivering results that people can see and feel. Through our SHINE Agenda...

 PRESS RELEASE  NO 505/ EDSGH/2026 OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR, EDO STATE  Works Minister apologises over Benin-Agbor Road, orders arrest of contractors removing asphalt The Minister of Works, David Umahi, on Tuesday apologised to commuters and residents of Edo and Delta states over the deplorable condition of the Benin-Agbor Road, which has caused them undue hardship. Umahi tendered the apology in Benin City while on an inspection tour of major Federal roads in the state alongside the governor,Sen Monday Okpebholo and ordered the arrest of contractors and concessionaires found removing asphalt from federal roads without authorisation. He commended Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo for his commitment to infrastructure development and intervention in the rehabilitation of federal roads in the state. The minister also thanked Edo youths for remaining calm despite the hardship caused by the condition of the road, saying their restraint had helped prevent a possible bre...

PRESS RELEASE  NO 504/ EDSGH/ 2026 OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR, EDO STATE  Governor Okpebholo signs Edo Assembly funds management, judiciary autonomy bills into law Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has signed the Edo House of Assembly Funds Management Bill 2023 and the State Judiciary Financial Autonomy 2023 Amendment Bill into law. The governor signed the bills on Monday at Government House, Benin City, while receiving the Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly, Prince Yekini Idiaye. He commended the lawmakers for the swift passage of the legislation, saying he was pleased that the issue had been resolved. “I am indeed delighted because this has become like a controversial law, I must confess to you,” Okpebholo said. He said the three arms of government — the executive, legislature and judiciary — had distinct responsibilities and should operate within their constitutional mandates. According to him, the executive is responsible for administration and implementation, whi...

 A MOMENT OF HONOUR AND PROFESSIONAL DISTINCTION The Edo State Healthcare Regulation and Monitoring Agency (EDOHERMA) proudly celebrates its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Adesuwa Urhoghide, on her induction as a Fellow of the International College of Dentists (ICD). This prestigious fellowship is a recognition of professional excellence, leadership, service and commitment to the advancement of dentistry and healthcare. For EDOHERMA, this milestone reinforces our commitment to professionalism, excellence, integrity and service to humanity in healthcare regulation. Congratulations to our CEO on this remarkable professional milestone. EDOHERMA - Protecting Edo Lives, One Regulation at a Time.

 APC-USA NATIONAL YOUTH LEADER, HON. OYAKHILOME BELLO, JOINS GLOBAL LEADERS AT NIGERIA-CANADA SUMMIT ON DIGITAL RAILS AND INCLUSIVE GROWTH The APC-USA National Youth Leader, Hon. Oyakhilome Bello, recently participated in the prestigious Nigeria-Canada Summit on Digital Rails and Inclusive Growth at the Ontario Investment and Trade Centre in Toronto, Canada. The summit brought together political leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, technology experts, development partners and members of the Nigerian diaspora to explore opportunities in investment, digital transformation, technology transfer, trade, job creation and inclusive economic growth. The engagement is significant to Nigeria as it provides an avenue to attract foreign investment, expand the digital economy, develop human capital, create employment and showcase Nigeria's vast opportunities in agriculture, solid minerals, technology, manufacturing, renewable energy, financial services and other sectors. A distinguished participa...

 ABIA REJOICE MOVEMENT FELICITATES DR. MONDAY ONYEKACHI UBANI (SAN) ON HIS BIRTHDAY On this joyous occasion of 27th July, Abia Rejoice Movement on behalf of our leader, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, (CON) joins millions of progressive Nigerians, distinguished legal practitioners, friends, admirers, and well-wishers across the globe in celebrating an exceptional son of Nigeria, Dr. Monday Onyekachi Ubani, as he marks another remarkable year of life, purpose, and impactful service. Today, we celebrate not only the anniversary of your birth but also a life distinguished by excellence, integrity, courage, and unwavering commitment to justice. Your outstanding contributions to the legal profession have earned you widespread respect as one of Nigeria's finest legal luminaries. Through your brilliance, eloquence, professionalism, and steadfast defense of the rule of law, you have inspired countless young lawyers and demonstrated that true leadership is built on character, competence, and s...

 A Virtuous Woman, A Pillar of Strength, A Mother to Many – Happy Birthday, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Sabina Ogah (Lolo) Today, with a heart full of gratitude and admiration, I proudly join my Principal, Leader, and Mentor, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah , the entire Master Energy Group , the Abia Rejoice Movement , and millions of well-wishers across Abia State, Nigeria, and around the world to celebrate an exceptional woman, a rare gem, and a virtuous mother, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Sabina Ogah (Lolo) . Today is not just a celebration of your birthday, but a celebration of a life devoted to humanity, compassion, excellence, and selfless service. You are the true definition of grace, humility, wisdom, and strength. Your unwavering support for your family, your husband, your community, and countless lives has made you a shining example of what it means to be a virtuous woman. Lolo, your gentle spirit, remarkable vision, and motherly heart continue to inspire hope and uplift many. You have consistently de...

Dr. Monday Onyekachi Ubani, SAN Emerges Best PhD Graduate in Law at Babcock University By Comrade Mark Anthony Chinedu(Hon Senator ) Dr. Monday Onyekachi Ubani, SAN, has once again distinguished himself by achieving another remarkable milestone in his illustrious legal and academic career, emerging as the Best PhD Graduate in Law at Babcock University. This outstanding accomplishment reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence, lifelong learning, legal scholarship, and public service. It also reinforces his reputation as one of Nigeria's most respected legal practitioners, constitutional lawyers, and human rights advocates, whose influence extends across the legal profession, academia, and public administration. Born on July 27, 1964, in Awomukwu, Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State, Dr. Ubani's journey to national prominence is one defined by determination, resilience, discipline, and an unyielding passion for justice. His educational path was marked by courage an...

EDOHERMA, DEQA Partner To Advance Health Standards And Sustainable Private School Management in Edo State The Edo Healthcare Regulation and Monitoring Agency (EDOHERMA) and the Directorate of Education Quality and Accountability (DEQA) have joined forces for a landmark two-day stakeholder engagement with private school proprietors. Held at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA) in Benin City, the event provided a critical platform to address school security, child safety, conflict management, financial planning, regulatory compliance, and environmental hygiene across educational facilities. The Chief Executive Officer of EDOHERMA, Dr. Adesuwa Urhoghide-Edigin, positioned the agency as a central pillar in establishing a lasting legacy for the administration of the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo. She emphasized that building strategic partnerships with private school proprietors is a vital step toward safeguarding the state's future. She hig...

  Abia State Hosts First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, as She Donates N2 Billion for Akwete Fabric Development and Receives Prestigious Traditional Title The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, and his wife, Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Otti, alongside former Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah, and other distinguished dignitaries, warmly welcomed the Wife of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, on her special visit to Abia State to meet and interact with the renowned Akwete women, whose exceptional craftsmanship has made the iconic Akwete fabric one of Nigeria's most treasured handwoven textiles. Speaking during the event, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah expressed appreciation to Governor Alex Otti and Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Otti for their commitment to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Akwete to the world. He commended the state government's efforts in bring...

Happy Birthday to an Exceptional Leader, Comrade Chima Obiwuru (Mr. Truism) Today, I proudly celebrate Comrade Chima Obiwuru (Mr. Truism) , a truly remarkable man of honor, integrity, and unwavering commitment to humanity. Your life is a shining example of selfless leadership, courage, wisdom, and an uncommon passion for the welfare of others. Your character continues to inspire hope, confidence, and purpose in everyone privileged to know you. As one of the formidable pillars and strongholds of the Abia Rejoice Movement , your steadfast dedication, exemplary leadership, and unwavering support for the vision of our leader and principal, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah , remain a beacon of inspiration to many. Your loyalty to this noble cause and your relentless pursuit of a better Abia reflect the depth of your convictions and the greatness of your heart. Having you as one of our leaders is a privilege I cherish and a source of immense joy to me. You are not merely a leader by position but ...

EDOHERMA PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO THE COMMISSIONER FOR WOMEN AFFAIRS AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Edo State Health Regulation and Monitoring Agency (EDOHERMA) introduced the Agency and highlighted its statutory mandate of regulating, monitoring, licensing, and ensuring compliance with minimum health standards across health facilities and services in Edo State. She explained that EDOHERMA was established by the Edo State Government through a law signed by His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on 5th December 2025 and commenced operations in February 2026. The CEO stated that the Agency is responsible for regulating a wide range of health facilities, including hospitals, clinics, nursing and maternity homes, medical laboratories, alternative medicine centres, and other healthcare establishments across all relevant sectors. She clarified that EDOHERMA does not have the statutory mandate to regulate pharmacies but would regulate their attached clinics ...

 FROM CRITICISM TO COMMENDATION: GOVERNOR MONDAY OKPEBHOLO'S PERFORMANCE SPEAKS FOR ITSELF By Comrade Mark Anthony (Hon. Senator) There is a timeless saying: When a leader consistently performs exceptionally well, even the harshest critics will eventually acknowledge and applaud their achievements. This appears to be the case with Arise TV news co-anchor, Oseni Rufai, and the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, popularly known as Akpako Rescue. When Governor Monday Okpebholo assumed office, Oseni Rufai was among those who questioned his capacity and expressed doubts about what his administration could achieve. Like many others, he was skeptical of the governor's ability to deliver. However, history has consistently shown that leadership is judged not by opinions or assumptions, but by tangible results. Today, Governor Okpebholo's performance is speaking louder than the voices of his critics. Through his commitment to good governance, infrastructural d...

 *THE BULLDOZER AND THE CATERPILLAR: The two Edge Sword of Governor Monday Okpebholo's Leadership* Written by Hon. Jackson Isangofon Leadership is often defined not by words but by the courage to make difficult decisions and the vision to build a better future. In Edo State today, Governor Monday Okpebholo has increasingly come to embody two powerful symbols of purposeful governance: *The Bulldozer and the Caterpillar*. At first glance, these machines serve different purposes. One demolishes; the other constructs. Yet together, they represent a complete cycle of transformation. Before anything enduring can be built, what threatens its foundation must first be removed. This is the philosophy increasingly defining Governor Okpebholo's administration. *The Bulldozer: Crushing Criminality* For too long, insecurity threatened the peace and economic potential of Edo State. Kidnappers established camps. Cult gangs terrorized communities. Criminal syndicates operated with increasing bo...

Edo Police Rescue  Kidnapped AAU Students, Kill One Suspect The Edo State Police Command has rescued three students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were kidnapped by gunmen in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State. The students were abducted on Sunday, July 12, 2026, during an attack in the Ujemen G.T. Extension area of Ekpoma. One student, Peter Ekpen, a 24-year-old 300-level undergraduate, was killed during the attack. The rescued students were identified as Praise Obagbalu, 18, Favour Okoroji, 21, and Balogun Precious, 19. State Commissioner of Police, Mr Monday Agbonika, disclosed the development on Tuesday while briefing journalists at the Nigeria Police Divisional Headquarters in Ekpoma. Represented by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Eno Ikoedem, the commissioner said the command received a distress report that armed men suspected to be kidnappers had attacked the area and abducted the students. He said the commissioner immediately...

EDOHERMA CEO PAYS A VISIT TO EIRS CHAIRMAN, EMPHASISES TRANSPARENCY AND DIGITAL REVENUE COLLECTION The Chief Executive Officer of the Edo State Healthcare Regulation and Monitoring Agency (EDOHERMA), Dr. Adesuwa Urhoghide-Edigin, paid a visit to the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) to strengthen collaboration and foster a productive working relationship between the two agencies. The meeting focused on enhancing transparency in revenue administration, improving Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) payment systems, and strengthening collaboration to support efficient revenue collection for Edo State. Discussions also explored practical strategies for streamlining IGR payments and ensuring greater accountability through digital payment platforms. Dr. Urhoghide emphasized that transparency and integrity must remain at the heart of public financial management, reaffirming her commitment to the values that have defined her public service career. She stressed ...

 *PRESS RELEASE* WOMEN IN CHRIST HOLDS SPIRIT-FILLED MONTHLY VIGIL, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO PRAYERS FOR EDO STATE AND NIGERIA  The Office of the Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Edo State on Women in Christ has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to seeking God's divine intervention for Edo State and Nigeria through the successful hosting of its monthly vigil. The gathering brought together women from different Christian denominations in an atmosphere of heartfelt worship, fervent prayers, and thanksgiving. United in one accord, participants interceded for the peace, security, unity, and continued development of Edo State, while committing the administration of His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the nation into God's hands. Speaking during the vigil, the Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Edo State on Women in Christ, Pastor Courage Iziegbe Aburime-Walter, charged believers to remain steadfast in prayer, stressing that prayer rema...