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Probe Of Obaseki’s Govt smokescreen to cover Okpebholo’s incompetence – Osagie
In a statement, Osagie said Okpebholo is devoid of ideas and lacks a clear vision to drive development in the State, noting that the governor is resorting to cheap political theatrics and using a circus of meaningless probes to distract from his “glaring incompetence and lack of direction.”
He said Okpebholo is acting as if the people of Edo State were an undiscerning mob and is now staging a spectacle similar to a gladiatorial duel in the Ancient Roman Colosseum, with the plan to deceive the people with such theatrics and diversionary probes.
The statement reads: “Our attention has been drawn to a laughable and utterly ridiculous statement by the Monday Okpebholo’s administration setting up a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee to probe the administration of his predecessor, His Excellency, Godwin Obaseki, who is globally acclaimed to have run one of the most transparent, accountable and prudent government’s in the history of Nigeria.
“This is another in the list of the barrage of meaningless probes which the governor and his directionless government is embarking on since they got into Dennis Osadebey Avenue through the back door. From probing civil servants’ employment to probing Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), and probing vehicles and other assets of government, among others, the governor-select has continued to show that he is bereft of ideas and lacks a clear vision for the development of the State and has therefore resorted to these charades of empty probes to buy time and distract from his incompetence and unpreparedness for office.
“His plan is to treat Edo people like an undiscerning mob that you can distract with a show like the duel of gladiators in the Ancient Roman Colosseum. But Okpebholo will soon learn that he is the governor with the hardest job in Nigeria because the Edo people of Edo State are wise and can hardly be fooled. His diversionary probes may succeed in deceiving people in some States in Nigeria but certainly not those in Edo State.
“He should stop his futile and failed attempt to fool the people of Edo State who have already seen him for who he truly is: a politician out of his depth who has become a tool in the hands of his many godfathers who are thirsty for vendetta, having for long been denied access to the people’s patrimony by the immediate past government of His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.
“It is on record that the Obaseki administration achieved an unprecedented level of transparency in governance, laying a solid foundation for fiscal discipline, which was why it was able to accomplish the numerous milestones recorded across various sectors of the State, including the economy, education, agriculture, infrastructure, among others. Under Obaseki’s watch, the State developed its first asset register, containing all the government’s assets, which has since been handed over to the new government.”
He added: “So, we know what their plans are with the diversionary probes. It is just a smokescreen to mask the governor-select’s incompetence and unpreparedness for office, having come into power through a stolen mandate.
“We want to advise Okpebholo to focus on governance and improving the lives of Edo people rather than waste state resources masking his incompetence in meaningless probes. Edo people are watching and his short-span government which lasts until the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) reclaims its mandate duly given to it by Edo voters will be judged not by the noise it makes but by the impact it delivers.”
Okpebholo approved the formation of a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee to investigate the administration of his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.
He said the committee, which will be inaugurated on Tuesday, 26 November 2024, at Government House in Benin City, will be chaired by Dr Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe.
The Confederation of All Progressives Congress (APC) Support Groups has threatened to mobilise 50 million supporters to protest against the United States and its allies, accusing them of meddling in Nigeria’s affairs ahead of an anticipated release of Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) files on President Bola Tinubu’s past.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Prof. Kailani Muhammad, Director-General of the group, condemned the U.S. for allegedly attempting to distract Tinubu with decades-old allegations of drug-related cases and money laundering from the 1990s.
“We want America and its allies to leave our president alone,” Muhammad declared, noting that the release of the files has been postponed by 90 days. “Why shift it? Forget about it.”
Muhammad accused the U.S. of double standards, pointing to issues like racism and drug-related crimes in America while ignoring Nigeria’s internal challenges.
“You are always focusing on Nigeria,” he said, referencing past predictions of Nigeria’s disintegration by former U.S. President Barack Obama.
“We are no more slaves. We cannot let you determine our internal affairs.”
The group demanded that the U.S. provide intelligence on bandits operating in Nigeria and their sponsors, threatening to “chase all foreigners out” if their demands are unmet.
Muhammad urged Tinubu’s administration to focus on economic stability, job creation, and agricultural development to address Nigeria’s hardships, including the high cost of living and the inadequacy of the N75,000 minimum wage, which many state governors have yet to implement.
“What can N75,000 buy in Nigeria today?” Muhammad asked, calling for increased focus on solid minerals and agriculture to create wealth and jobs.
“Nigeria has all it takes to be a great country. All hands must be on deck.”
Chief Hon. Chukwuebuka Obidike, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has rejected the recent allegations levied against Seyi Tinubu regarding the purported assault and abduction of Comrade Atiku Isah, the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
In a conversation with our reporter, Obidike characterized these allegations as unfounded, malicious, and a misguided effort to damage the reputation of the President’s son while undermining his charitable contributions.
“It is profoundly troubling that Comrade Atiku Isah would resort to such measures to implicate Seyi Tinubu in matters he is not involved in,” Obidike stated. “Seyi Tinubu is a dedicated Nigerian who has consistently championed youth empowerment and national progress. Linking him to acts of violence is not only unfair but utterly reprehensible.”
Obidike, who also holds the position of Chairman at Clarivo Oil & Gas Limited, emphasized that Seyi Tinubu’s commitment to grassroots initiatives and ongoing support for marginalized communities—particularly in Northern Nigeria—cannot be extinguished by “petty blackmail” or “misguided attacks” from the NANS President.
He further suggested that these accusations are part of a larger scheme aimed at undermining the goodwill Seyi Tinubu enjoys, especially among youth in the north, in the lead-up to the 2027 presidential election.
Obidike called for security agencies to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the matter to reveal the truth. He also urged Comrade Isah and the NANS leadership to redirect their focus toward authentic student advocacy and educational reform, rather than allowing their organization to be a platform for political smear campaigns.
In closing, Obidike reaffirmed his steadfast support for Seyi Tinubu, asserting that no amount of intimidation would hinder his efforts to uplift the underprivileged and foster a positive impact on Nigerian youth.
By Tambaya Julius, Abuja
Brigadier General Simon Katunku Gora (Rtd) is more than just a retired military officer he is a living embodiment of discipline, selflessness, and spiritual conviction. With close to 30 years of distinguished military service, General Gora’s legacy continues to resonate beyond the battlefield. His guiding philosophy is built upon unwavering values such as humility, honour, and a profound respect for human life. His principles are not abstract ideals, but actionable beliefs that have shaped every stage of his journey.
In a world where ego often leads, General Gora believes that humility is a far greater strength than arrogance. For him, humility allows leaders to listen attentively, act compassionately, and lead with wisdom. It cultivates patience and empathy, qualities essential for unity and understanding. Rather than viewing humility as a weakness, he recognises it as a powerful tool for personal growth and effective leadership. In every setting military or civilian he has led by example, always placing people before power.
Respect, according to General Gora, is the glue that holds communities and nations together. It is not just about courtesy; it is about acknowledging the dignity of others. His leadership style has always revolved around respect for subordinates, colleagues, and adversaries alike. Equally central to his life philosophy is the value of selfless service. General Gora has always believed that the highest calling is to serve others, especially in times of hardship. Whether addressing poverty, illness, or injustice, he consistently acts from a place of compassion.
Deeply spiritual, General Gora attributes his inner strength and resilience to his faith in God. He believes that love and the desire to serve are divine gifts, empowering individuals to rise above selfish interests and contribute meaningfully to society. Every act of kindness, in his view, is a reflection of God’s grace. His Christian faith informs his moral compass and underpins his unwavering dedication to national and communal service. By embracing this divine calling, he lives out his purpose with a sense of joy and fulfilment.
General Gora’s heart is moved by the suffering of others. Whether it’s the sting of hunger, the pain of illness, or the shadow of despair, he feels a personal obligation to alleviate hardship wherever possible. He envisions a future where every citizen’s basic needs are met a society built on compassion, justice, and opportunity. His hope is not passive; it drives his ongoing efforts to support vulnerable communities and advocate for meaningful change.
Authenticity has been the bedrock of General Gora’s character. He believes in remaining true to one’s values, even in the face of adversity. Rather than conforming to external expectations, he has consistently chosen the path of integrity, striving to align his actions with his beliefs. For him, success is not measured by titles or wealth, but by the positive impact one leaves behind. His journey is a powerful reminder that living authentically is not only liberating it is essential for lasting fulfilment.
Every goal General Gora sets is grounded in clear intention. He approaches life with dedication, joy, and a deep sense of responsibility. Whether achieving a milestone or facing a setback, he meets each experience with grace, trusting that the journey itself is as important as the destination. His commitment to purpose-driven living is evident in his personal life, his military service, and his continued engagement with social causes. This clarity vision of Gen. Gora fuels his determination and inspires those around him to pursue excellence with integrity.
General Gora’s mission in life extends beyond personal success. He firmly believes that each person is born with a God-given purpose, and that fulfilment comes from serving that purpose faithfully. Whether through national defence, community upliftment, or spiritual growth, his ultimate aim has always been to make a meaningful difference. He finds value in small acts of kindness and believes in the ripple effect of positive change. For him, even the smallest contribution to humanity is significant.
The true measure of a successful life, according to General Gora, lies in the legacy one leaves behind. He is not concerned with accolades or recognition; instead, he strives to leave the world better than he found it. His ambition is not driven by ego, but by a heartfelt desire to improve lives, foster unity, and inspire future generations. By nurturing others, standing for justice, and promoting peace, he continues to plant seeds of hope for a brighter tomorrow.
As he reflects on his remarkable journey, one core belief shines through: unity is the foundation of collective progress. “United we stand, divided we fall” is not just a slogan for General Gora it is a truth that he has lived by. He understands that true strength lies in togetherness, and that a united people can overcome even the greatest of challenges. His vision for the future is one of cooperation, shared success, and national pride.
Brigadier General Simon Katunku Gora (Rtd) stands as a beacon of principled leadership in an ever-changing world. His life serves as a powerful reminder that true greatness lies not in dominance, but in service and humanity.