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Edo Residents Hails Obaseki ‘s Devt Strides
The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on Sunday, visited Sobe and Sabongida-Ora communities, both in Owan West Local Government Area (LGA) of the State to canvass votes for the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Saturday’s House of Assembly elections.
Obaseki, while addressing the people of the communities, assured improved security and more infrastructural projects to better the lives of residents in the areas.
Speaking to worshippers at St. John Cathedral, Anglican Communion, Diocese of Sabongida-Ora, the governor said the state government is collaborating with security agencies in the state to ensure security in Edo forests, adding, “I will not be governor and leave you unprotected. Security is our focus as we will ensure your safety. We began an operation yesterday, combing out all herdsmen from our forest.
“In Edo State, we have prohibited open grazing and will implement that law to the fullest. Our people must go to their farm and do their farm work.”
He continued: “As a government, we will continue to do more for our people. We are here to use the opportunity to see the construction of the Sobe-Sabongida-Ora Road, as well as the Edo University Campus, to be sited here, among other projects.
“In all our challenges as a country, we must continue to have hope, as things are very difficult. We battle inflation, high food prices, scarcity of currency, and lots more. As a country, we must be prayerful to come out from these many challenges.
“Owan West is a citadel of education in Edo State, as it has some of the best trained and educated Nigerians. Owan West is not a locality to joke with as it needs viable representatives in the Edo State House of Assembly. You should vote for someone who will represent you well, unlike those that ran away and followed their godfather.
“In this Saturday’s House of Assembly election, I urge you to vote for someone that will represent you well. The PDP members in the House will support me and my developmental strides in the State will continue.”
Addressing party faithful and residents in Sobe, Obaseki noted, “We will bring development to this area. Have you seen the road from Sobe to Sabongida-Ora? We are working hard on the road and will ensure we complete it before the end of the dry season.”
He further stated, “I can’t abandon you people, as your area needs somebody that will represent you well at the Edo State House of Assembly. We need somebody that will serve as a good representative, a link between your people and the government.
“I appeal to you all to come out on Saturday, 18th of March 2023 with one mind and vote one of your own, Blessing Agbebaku who will represent you well in the EDHA.”
Obaseki reassured, “Sobe must move forward. I will work with your leaders to bring development to the people of this area.”
In his response, the Chairman of PDP, Sobe, Ward 11, Mr. Joseph Igure, said, “I want to assure you Mr. Governor that all the 19 units in Ward 11 in Sobe will be won for PDP in the March 18, 2023 House of Assembly elections in the State. We will make sure this election is a done deal. We must deliver our House of Assembly candidates. We will continue to canvas votes for PDP and make sure we win all 19 units in Ward 11.
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The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Abdulganiyu Jaji, has placed fire service personnel on red alert to ensure swift response to emergencies during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
Jaji also urged Nigerians to adopt fire safety measures, particularly while cooking, to prevent avoidable incidents during the festive period.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, the fire service boss advised against leaving cooking unattended and emphasized the need to store gas cylinders outside kitchens and keep matches away from children.
“These safety measures are crucial in preventing fire outbreaks, especially during a period when many people travel, increasing the risks of fuel tanker accidents,” he said.
He added that all fire service commands and zones across the country have been placed on high alert to respond promptly to emergencies.
“I urge citizens to familiarize themselves with the contact details of their local fire service units for quick intervention in case of any fire incident,” Jaji stated.
The fire chief also stressed the need for fuel tankers and other articulated vehicles transporting flammable materials to be fitted with onboard cameras to enhance safety.
“Many tankers on Nigerian roads still fail to meet modern safety standards. These substandard vehicles contribute to rising accident figures, leading to loss of lives and property and leaving many families in distress,” he said.
Jaji noted that modern tankers come with features such as anti-rollover systems, anti-spill devices, and onboard cameras to monitor drivers’ behavior, which help in preventing road crashes.
“The continued use of substandard tankers without these safety features remains a major risk,” he warned.
While acknowledging the financial burden of replacing old fleets, Jaji suggested an alternative approach—installing onboard computers to monitor driving patterns, speed, and nighttime movements.
“Although the complete replacement or retrofitting of tankers with modern safety devices like anti-skid systems, speed limiters, and automatic emergency braking remains a priority, government agencies responsible for enforcing these measures are working to address the issue. Over time, we are confident that these improvements will be implemented,” he assured.
MultiChoice Nigeria has announced that the tenth edition of the Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) reality show will begin soon.
In an Instagram post on Saturday, the organisers revealed that the audition process for this edition will differ from previous ones.
Unlike past seasons, where aspiring contestants auditioned virtually, those vying for a spot in the 10th edition will have to audition in person.
However, the premiere date for the new season and the audition locations has not been disclosed.
“This time, it’s all about showing up and being you. Ready to shine? Get ready your moment is closer than you think! Season 10 is coming,” the post reads.
The reality TV show first introduced online auditions in its fourth season in 2019.
At the time, the option was created for those who couldn’t attend the physical auditions held earlier.
Since then, the organisers have maintained virtual auditions, adding different twists with each edition.
In the last season, contestants were required to audition in pairs.
At the last edition, Kellyrae defeated other housemates to win the grand prize of N100 million.
The feat also sees him become the first married person to win the show.
As the winner, he went home with a cash prize of N60 million, a new car among others.
The First Lady, Remi Tinubu, has described her husband, President Bola Tinubu, as a man of courage in a terse message to celebrate his birthday.
President Tinubu clocked 73rd on Saturday.
“I rejoice and thank God Almighty for His faithfulness in your life over the years.
I celebrate your courage, strength, and resilience that have all contributed to who we both are today,” the First Lady wrote.
“May you live long, in divine health, joy, peace and prosperity. Happy Birthday, Mr. President…My Knight in Shining Armor”.