Let Peace And Unity Reigns in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo aide Daniel Eromosele plead with PDP

Sahara Weekly Reports That The desperation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State is alarming, to say the least. Despite their decisive loss in the September 21 election, they seem determined to inflict pain and suffering on the good people of Edo. Their strategy? To create chaos and violence across the state, thereby disrupting the peace and progress that the current administration is working hard to establish. With the intention to render the State ungovernable and create room for the declaration of State of emergency in Edo.

The recent gruesome killings of Muslims traveling through the state are a stark manifestation and reminder of the PDP’s wicked and bizzare intentions. What’s even more disturbing, however, is the fact that instead of condemning these heinous acts, some senior PDP officials are trying to downplay the severity of ugly incidents. They’re using these senseless killings to call on the Federal Government to declare a State of emergency in Edo State. Nothing can be more far from the truth that these same people are the perpetrators of these wicked and barbaric acts of criminality in the State. Its so sad that, their desperation has lost regard to sanctity of human life.

Let’s be clear: there’s no justification for these acts of criminality clothed in violence no matter the political leanings of the perpetrators or their victims. Every life is precious, and every killing is a tragedy that diminishes us all. Let it be known that those that orchestrated these acts of wickedness and criminality and those that defend them are guilty of the same offence and shall be so rewarded.

The hard truth is that whatever goes around comes around. The PDP and their failed candidate should let Edo enjoy the peace and progress that Governor Monday Okpebholo is working hard to achieve. They should wait for 2028 to try their luck again, instead of trying to disrupt the state’s progress through violence and chaos.

To the good people of Edo, let’s stand together these political Buccaneers and Vampires that are out to unleash violence against the good people. Violence has never been and will never be our culture.We deserve better, and we will not be swayed by the PDP’s antics. The good people of Edo State are solidly behind their ever performing Governor AKPAKO WONDER.

By Prince Adeyemi Aseperi-Shonibare

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

For over two decades, Lagos State has been unjustly denied the recognition of 37 additional local governments, which were legally created under the Nigerian Constitution. This is not a political maneuver—it is a legitimate demand for fairness, equity, and justice. The continuous refusal of the Federal Government and the National Assembly to rectify this anomaly is a clear case of injustice, and as the saying goes, justice delayed is justice denied.

THE CREATION OF 37 LOCAL GOVERNMENTS: A CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT DENIED

In 2003, then-Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in strict adherence to constitutional provisions, initiated the process of creating new local governments in Lagos. A referendum was conducted, all necessary legal procedures were followed, and the Lagos State House of Assembly passed the law establishing these local governments in accordance with the 1999 Constitution.

This legal process was supervised by Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, the then-Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State, who later became Nigeria’s Vice President. These local governments were not created arbitrarily; they were established to bring governance closer to the people, ensure equitable development, and address administrative and infrastructural challenges in a state with an exploding population of over 20 million people.

However, despite Lagos following due process, the National Assembly failed to complete its constitutional duty of amending the Constitution to formally recognize these local governments. Instead of supporting Lagos in this democratic exercise, the administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo unlawfully withheld federal allocations meant for the existing local governments, crippling development efforts and punishing millions of Lagosians.

Even when the Supreme Court ruled in Lagos’ favor, declaring the withholding of funds unconstitutional, the Obasanjo administration blatantly ignored the ruling, further deepening the injustice against Lagos.

THE CONSEQUENCES OF FEDERAL INJUSTICE AGAINST LAGOS

1 WITHHOLDING OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ALLOCATIONS
In 2004, President Obasanjo unilaterally withheld local government allocations to Lagos State, citing the state’s creation of new local councils as unconstitutional. This action deprived Lagos of crucial funds needed for development.

2.FRUSTRATION OF DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
The Obasanjo administration was notorious for obstructing Lagos’ initiatives aimed at urban development, transportation, and infrastructure.

3.BLOCKING THE RIGHT OF WAY FOR LAGOS’ BRT PROJECT
The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, designed to ease transportation congestion, was actively obstructed by the Federal Government under Obasanjo. Despite the state government’s efforts to develop an efficient mass transit system, the administration refused to grant Lagos State the right of way on federal roads within Lagos.

4.THE LAGOS INDEPENDENT POWER PROJECT AND ENRON SABOTAGE
Lagos, being Nigeria’s economic hub, sought energy independence to ensure stable electricity for its industries and residents. However, the Federal Government, through the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA), blocked Lagos from operating its own power grid, frustrating industrial growth and economic development.

LAGOS: THE ECONOMIC POWERHOUSE OF NIGERIA

Lagos is not just a Nigerian state—it is a global city with unique economic, commercial, and strategic significance. It is Nigeria’s primary gateway to the international market, yet it is treated unfairly in federal allocations.

DISPARITY IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT ALLOCATIONS: THE LAGOS-KANO-JIGAWA PARADOX

Kano State, with a lower population, has 44 local governments.

Jigawa, which was created out of Kano, has 27 local governments.

Katsina has 34 local governments, even though its population is far lower than Lagos.

This imbalance is an insult to the principle of fairness. Local governments should not be created based on landmass but on population and administrative responsibilities.

LANDMARK SUPREME COURT CASES WON BY LAGOS AGAINST THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

1.CONTROL OVER PHYSICAL PLANNING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT
Attorney-General of Lagos State v. Attorney-General of the Federation (2003)

Lagos State won its right to control urban planning without federal interference.

2.ALLOCATION OF REVENUE FROM NATURAL RESOURCES
Attorney-General of the Federation v. Attorney-General of Abia State & 35 Ors (2002)

Supreme Court ruled in favor of Lagos and other littoral states for revenue allocation.

3.WITHHOLDING OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT ALLOCATIONS
Attorney-General of Lagos State v. Attorney-General of the Federation (2004)

The Supreme Court ruled that the Federal Government had no right to withhold Lagos’ funds.

10 BENEFITS OF THE NEW LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

1 Closer governance to the grassroots

2.More efficient delivery of public services

3.Increased job creation and economic opportunities

4. Improved security and law enforcement

5.Better infrastructural development

6.Enhanced healthcare and primary education services

7.More equitable allocation of resources

8.Strengthened political representation for residents

9 Increased internally generated revenue (IGR) for Lagos

10 A model for other Nigerian states to emulate for balanced governance

CURRENT RESPONSIBILITIES OF LAGOS STATE

SECURITY: Lagos State has its own security network, including the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps and partnerships with federal agencies.

INFRASTRUCTURE: It has the largest number of roads, bridges, and transportation systems in Nigeria.

EDUCATION: Lagos has the highest number of primary schools and primary health centers in the country.

EMPLOYMENT: The state is the largest employer of labor in Nigeria.

TRANSPORTATION: Lagos has the largest car ownership and human population in West Africa to cater to.

A CALL FOR JUSTICE: THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MUST RECOGNIZE LAGOS’ 37 LOCAL GOVERNMENTS

Lagos has been treated unfairly for too long. The refusal to recognize its additional local governments is an injustice that must be corrected immediately.

The National Assembly must amend the Constitution to recognize Lagos’ 57 local governments.

The Federal Government must release allocations meant for Lagos’ local governments.

Lagosians must unite to demand their rightful share of governance, resources, and representation.

Lagos is the heartbeat of Nigeria’s economy and the face of Africa’s global competitiveness.

THE TIME FOR JUSTICE IS NOW.

#giveusour37lgs

The Obijackson Foundation, in partnership with the Okija Bu Enyi Brothers Assembly, has donated 140 pieces of waste bins, 2 compactor disposable trucks, 2 operational Hilux, 1 staff bus, bundles of brooms, and other waste evacuating tools to Okija community in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The donation took place at the St. Mary’s School Field Okija, on Saturday, during the official launching of “Keep Okija Clean” Initiative to drive environmental and sustainable waste management for Okija community and environs.

The “Keep Okija Clean” initiative aims to address waste management challenges while creating economic opportunities for residents of Okija.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, Founder of the Obijackson Foundation, emphasized the importance of collective action in driving meaningful change. “I am honoured to stand before you as we reintroduce, in collaboration with the Okija Bu Enyi Brothers Assembly, the ‘Keep Okija Clean’ initiative—a project that embodies our commitment to environmental sustainability and community development.

He said over 100 people have been employed for the project, adding that the gesture is another way to create jobs for the teaming unemployed in the area.

According to Azudialu-Obiejesi, ‘’This effort is a testament to the power of collaboration, as the initiative includes cleaning streets, roads, and public spaces while introducing a sustainable waste management system.

“The highlight of this programme is the future development of a properly engineered landfill for Okija and its environs, which will provide a long-term solution to waste disposal challenges. This project is expected to create employment opportunities for local youths while fostering a healthier environment when completed.

He stated that over the years, the Foundation has spearheaded several transformative projects in Okija, including: Education: establishing Gonzaga Jesuit College and Gonzaga Jesuit Academy with 100% scholarship programs for Okija children.

Others are Healthcare: Improving access to medical services through the Obijackson Women and Children’s Hospital (OWCH); and Tourism Development: Developing Acropolis Gardens and Residence—a world-class resort with a 10,000 seater international convention center designed to position Okija as a hub for business and leisure.

Azudialu-Obiejesi encouraged community members to take ownership of the waste bins provided by the Foundation: “These bins are vital resources for keeping our environment clean. By safeguarding them, we are ensuring a healthier future for ourselves and generations to come.”

“The Foundation remains committed to creating lasting changes through innovative initiatives that empower communities while preserving their environment.

Sharing his vision for a cleaner and more sustainable community,, Obiejesi said, as we continue our environmental initiative, we are not just cleaning our streets; we are building a legacy for generations to come. This initiative demonstrates that collective action can lead to meaningful change.”

“The “Keep Okija Clean” initiative reflects the Obijackson Foundation’s unwavering dedication to improving lives while preserving natural resources for future generations.

The philanthropist urged the community members to take collective ownership of the waste bins provided by the Foundation to keep Okija clean and green.

In his remark on behalf of the Anambra Government, the State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Felix Odimegwu, said the donation of the waste tools was timely as it will help with the ongoing policy of sorting waste in the state.

The event also witnessed the presence of the Managing Director of Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA), Mr. Mike Ozoemena, the Traditional ruler of the town, HRH Igwe Emeka Okezie among other top dignitaries within the state.

It was gathered that the Foundation was established in 2010 to tackle the challenges of poor literacy, empowerement, nutrition and healthcare in Eastern Nigeria, particularly in the rural areas of Anambra state