Politics
Okpebholo Strengthens State-Owned Transport Service, Security Agencies With New Vehicles
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has commissioned over 56 new Toyota Hiace buses, for the state-owned transport service.
A government statement in Benin City on Wednesday has it that this is out of the 100 expected before the end of February.
It added that Gov Okpebholo also commissioned new Toyota Hilux vans and Prado Jeeps which his administration is distributing to security agencies in the State to fight crime.
It was gathered that Gov Okpebholo was joined at the event by Edo State Deputy Governor, Hon Dennis Idahosa; Minister of Works, Dave Umahi; former governor of Edo State Comrade Adams Oshiomole; Secretary to State Government, Musa Ikhilor; Chief of Staff Gani Audu; top government functionaries, party chieftains, heads of security agencies in the State, among others.
ALSO READ: Osun Crisis: APC Gains Upper Hand, Takes Control Of 14 LGAs
The former governor and senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Oshiomole who unveiled the new 56 buses, 38 new Toyota Hilux vans and over 16 Prado Jeeps as security vehicles, also commissioned the new Toyota Hiace buses to be used as fleets for Edoline Transport Services.
Sen Oshiomole commended the Governor for his achievements in 100 days in office and said what he could not do as governor of the State, Okpebholo has done.
He noted that Edo people are experiencing efforts by the Governor to fulfil campaign promises.
He said, “Criminals are mobile and security agencies charged with the responsibility of fighting crimes in the State must be mobile to match the criminal. They can only do so with good vehicles which the Governor has made possible.
“I am happy that you are speaking less and doing more for Edo people as your actions will continue to speak louder than voices. These security vehicles have been equipped with communication gadgets as our security agencies have all it takes to fight the criminals.
“Those that borrowed so much money could not afford to buy a new vehicle for security agencies. I pray Edo people will gradually recover the lost time of the period of eight years. In 100 days, you have shown this greatness for Edo people.”
Sen Oshiomole commended the Governor for not purchasing the vehicles through MoUs or hired consultants.
He noted that the action of the Governor is a clear signal that Edo State is not a safe place for criminals to operate. “Some of your decisions have restored peace in the State as all live happily now. You have returned Edo back to the path of sustainable growth and development.”
At the commissioning of the buses for Edoline Transport Services, Comrade Oshiomole commended the courage, determination and bravery of Governor Monday Okpebholo to revive the State-owned transport service.
“I am completely short of words because of the action of the Governor to revive Edoline. I tried during my time but could not do it. I was able to revive the Edo City transport service (ECTS) which is basically intra-city which is popularly called Comrade Bus.
“To revive the Edoline set up when I was still in primary school and one of the legacies of our departed elder statesman, late Samuel Ogbemudia as governor, I could not believe that you have achieved this great feat. The spirit of late Ogbemudia will be smiling in heaven for this achievement that his legacy is kept alive by your government.
“This action will give the travelling public more choices and options in embarking on inter State travel. Individuals cannot hold Edo traveling public to ransom because they have a choice between the famous Edoline or any other traveling companies.”
Comrade Oshiomole apologized to Edo people for supporting Godwin Obaseki who ruled the State for eight years and commended Okpebholo.
“When President Bola Tinubu sees what you are doing for Edo people, he knows that you will deserve support to do more. You have to do more for your eight years and also fill the lost eight years of Obaseki as it requires double effort and resources.”
The Edo State Police Commissioner, Betty Enekpen Isokpen Otimenyin, commended the Governor for the vehicles distributed to security agencies to fight crime and criminality in Edo State.
“We thank the governor for matching words with actions by providing security agencies with these vehicles especially now that we are embarking on operation rescue at the instance of the State Government.
“We are embarking on this operation rescue in collaboration with other sister security agencies to operate in the three Senatorial District of Edo State as you will see our vehicles across the State protecting the lives and properties of Edo people.
“You will see us in Ubiaja, Uromi, Auchi, Oluku, Ringroad, Ramart Park and other areas in the State to ensure we create a peaceful and friendly environment for our people to live peacefully and thrive in all they do.”
Politics
“PDP Can’t Unseat Tinubu with Wike in Charge” — Ulasi Blows Hot, Threatens Exit
A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Dan Ulasi, has warned that the party stands little chance of defeating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections if Nyesom Wike continues to play a leading role while allegedly supporting the ruling government.
Ulasi, who spoke during an interview on Arise TV on Thursday, expressed deep concern over what he described as a “contradictory situation” within the PDP, stressing that such internal inconsistencies could weaken the party’s credibility and chances at the polls.
ALSO READ: ‘I Didn’t Mean It Literally’ — Nyesom Wike Clears Air as Atiku Abubakar Fires Back
“I don’t see my party as presently constituted challenging Tinubu with Wike as national leader,” Ulasi said, warning that he may be forced to leave the party if the issue is not addressed.
The PDP stalwart argued that Wike cannot effectively serve as a leader in the opposition while maintaining close ties with President Tinubu, describing the situation as “unconstructive” for a party seeking to reclaim power at the national level.
He further questioned what role Wike would play if another candidate emerges as the PDP’s presidential flag-bearer ahead of the 2027 election, asking whether the former Rivers State governor would actively participate in party rallies or align with the ruling party’s activities.
Ulasi warned that the party’s next meeting could be his last if its leadership fails to provide satisfactory explanations, insisting that he cannot continue to be part of a process riddled with contradictions.
In a related development, Ulasi revealed that Peter Obi had visited him several times this year, including a recent meeting following an appearance in Enugu.
He spoke positively about Obi’s vision for Nigeria, noting that the former presidential candidate offers a sense of hope for the country’s future, although he stopped short of declaring any political alignment.
Reflecting on his longstanding ties to the PDP, Ulasi recalled his role during the party’s formation alongside late former Vice-President Alex Ekueme and other founding members.
Despite his deep connection to the party, he maintained that he would rather step aside than remain in a system he considers inconsistent.
He added that if he eventually exits the PDP, he has no plans to join another political party, stating that he would instead operate as a private consultant.
Politics
Drama in Ogun APC as Gbenga Daniel Claims He Was Barred From Meeting
There was tension within the Ogun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday after former Governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, alleged that he was barred from attending a stakeholders’ meeting of the party held in Ijebu Ode.
The meeting, which took place at Adeola Odutola Hall, was reportedly convened to bring together key party stakeholders, including current and former local government chairmen, councillors, and serving as well as former lawmakers from both state and national levels.
However, the senator, in a viral video circulating online, claimed he was denied entry into the venue despite being part of the expected attendees.
ALSO READ: “APC Failure in Disguise?” — Dickson Tears Into ADC Coalition
Speaking from his branded campaign bus parked at the venue, Daniel expressed disappointment over the situation, saying he and his team were stopped from accessing the meeting.
He further questioned the legitimacy of any resolutions reached at the gathering, suggesting that the outcome of the meeting should not be considered valid.
As of press time, the Ogun State APC leadership had yet to issue an official response to the allegation.
Politics
Who Leads ADC? Supreme Court to Hear Mark’s Appeal in Heated Party Rift
The lingering leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is set for a crucial legal test as the Supreme Court of Nigeria prepares to hear an appeal filed by former Senate President, David Mark.
Mark is challenging a legal action brought by a former Deputy National Chairman of the party, Nafiu Bala, over the control and leadership structure of the ADC.
The case, scheduled for hearing on Tuesday, is expected to determine the direction of the party amid deepening internal divisions.
SEE MORE: 2027: Why ADC, Opposition Leaders Stormed INEC in Abuja
Through his lawyer, Realwan Okpanachi, Mark is seeking an order to stay the execution of a Court of Appeal judgment delivered on March 12, pending the final resolution of the matter.
He also urged the apex court to restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from making any alterations to the party’s leadership as currently constituted under his faction.
In addition, Mark is asking the court to suspend further proceedings in a related suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite.
The dispute dates back to a September 4, 2025 ruling by the Federal High Court following an ex parte application filed by Bala, which has since fueled competing claims to the party’s leadership.
The ADC has, in recent months, been embroiled in a bitter factional crisis, with rival camps asserting legitimacy.
The situation has been worsened by conflicting court orders and administrative uncertainty surrounding who truly leads the party.
Tensions escalated after INEC reportedly removed Mark as the party’s national chairman from its official records, sparking protests by his loyalists.
The demonstration drew prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.
In response, the Bala-led faction staged a counter-protest, insisting on recognition by INEC as the legitimate leadership of the party.
As the battle shifts to the Supreme Court, political observers say the outcome could decisively shape the future of the ADC, particularly as political alignments begin to take form ahead of upcoming elections.





