No fewer than 68 passengers escaped unhurt on Thursday after an Enugu Air aircraft crash-landed at the Benin Airport in Edo State.

The aircraft, bearing registration number 5N-ENR, was reportedly operating on the Enugu–Benin–Lagos route when it overshot the runway shortly after landing and veered into a nearby bush.

A source at the Benin Airport, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak on the incident, said officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria promptly responded and evacuated all passengers from the aircraft.

According to the source, the swift intervention by airport emergency personnel prevented what could have resulted in a major tragedy.

“The aircraft overshot the runway and entered the nearby bush. FAAN officials immediately swung into action and evacuated all the passengers. No casualty was recorded,” the source said.

The exact number of crew members on board the aircraft could not be independently confirmed as of the time of filing this report.

The cause of the runway excursion was yet to be officially determined, as aviation authorities had not issued a formal statement on the incident at the time of reporting.

Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash-landing are expected to commence, with aviation safety officials likely to examine factors that may have contributed to the incident.

The successful evacuation of all passengers without injuries has been described as a significant relief, although the incident has raised fresh concerns over aviation safety and runway operations.

More details are expected as investigations progress.

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The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following intelligence reports of a planned kidnapping attack targeting students.

The directive was contained in a circular issued by the Edo State Ministry of Education and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Enodolomwanyi Otamere.

The affected schools are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School and Makeke Secondary School.

The closure followed a security alert from the Department of State Services (DSS), which reportedly uncovered plans by suspected bandits to carry out a mass abduction of schoolchildren in Edo North Senatorial District.

According to intelligence reports, the DSS intercepted communications between two suspected bandits who allegedly discussed shifting their focus to schoolchildren after previous attempts to kidnap wealthy individuals failed to generate the expected financial returns.

The report indicated that the suspects believed abducting students could attract greater government attention and increase their chances of securing substantial ransom payments.

Security concerns heightened after the arrest of a 25-year-old suspect on June 4 while allegedly conducting surveillance around Makeke Secondary School in Makeke community.

Authorities said the suspect’s activities raised fears that preparations for the planned operation may already have been underway.

In response, the DSS advised security agencies and government authorities to strengthen protection around schools and educational institutions, particularly in vulnerable communities across Edo North.

The agency also recommended increased deployment of security personnel, enhanced collaboration among security agencies, local vigilantes and hunters, as well as intensified surveillance and patrol operations.

Explaining the government’s decision, Otamere said the Ministry of Education received credible intelligence and security advisories indicating threats to the safety of students, teachers and surrounding communities.

“The Ministry of Education has received intelligence reports and advisories from relevant security agencies regarding credible threats to the safety of students, staff and school communities in some parts of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area,” he stated.

He noted that all academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools have been suspended indefinitely as a precautionary measure to safeguard lives and property.

The permanent secretary, however, clarified that candidates participating in the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) would continue to access their examination centres under strict security arrangements.

According to him, security agencies and community stakeholders have been mobilised to ensure the safety of candidates during the examination period.

Otamere directed principals of the affected schools to ensure the orderly release of students to their parents and guardians, secure school facilities and maintain communication with relevant authorities.

He also appealed to parents and residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to neutralise the threat and restore normal academic activities in the affected communities.

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The Edo State Development and Building Control Agency has intensified its enforcement operations across the state, demolishing more than 500 illegal structures in Ugbor and Etete areas of the Government Reservation Area (GRA), Benin City.

The exercise forms part of the state government’s broader urban renewal and regulatory compliance strategy aimed at promoting orderly development and safer communities.

According to the agency, the demolition targets unauthorised shanties, unsafe buildings, and structures erected without approved planning permissions, many of which violated existing building regulations.

Established under the 2022 Edo State building control law, the agency is responsible for approving building plans, monitoring construction activities, and ensuring full compliance with physical planning standards across the state.

Speaking in Benin City, the General Manager of the agency, Hon. Igabali Imoisili Darlington, said the operation aligns with the government’s SHINE agenda, particularly its focus on infrastructure development and sustainable urban growth.

He explained that enforcement efforts are not limited to Benin City but extend to Edo Central and Edo North senatorial districts as part of a statewide compliance framework.

Darlington noted that the agency inherited significant challenges, including weak regulatory compliance and low public trust, which initially limited development control effectiveness.

However, he said recent reforms have improved compliance levels significantly, with registered building approvals increasing by over 200 percent.

He added that monthly building plan approvals are expected to rise further as public awareness and trust continue to improve, projecting between 500 and 1,000 approvals monthly.

The agency also introduced a regularisation programme for property owners with undocumented structures, allowing them to obtain proper approvals and improve property value while ensuring safety compliance.

Darlington stressed that proper documentation remains essential for urban safety, environmental protection, and sustainable infrastructure planning.

On recent enforcement actions, he confirmed that over 500 illegal structures were removed in Ugbor, while additional demolitions were carried out in Etete, where buildings, makeshift factories, and religious structures erected under power lines were cleared.

He further stated that the agency has encountered some resistance from communities but maintained that enforcement will continue without political interference, as the government prioritises public safety and environmental order.

The Edo State Government reiterated its commitment to restoring urban planning discipline and ensuring that all developments align with approved physical planning standards.

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The Edo State Government has signed an agreement with a Chinese firm for the establishment of a 10 million metric tonnes cement plant aimed at boosting industrial growth and job creation in the state.

The development was disclosed on Monday by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Kassim Afegbua, during a media briefing in Benin City.

Major Industrial Investment

According to the state government, the cement plant is expected to significantly strengthen Edo’s industrial base, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic activity across multiple sectors once completed.

Afegbua said the project reflects the administration’s shift from promises to tangible development across all three senatorial districts of the state.

Economic Growth and Revenue Boost

He noted that improved funding has been driven by higher federal allocations following fuel subsidy removal and increased internally generated revenue, now estimated between ₦9.5 billion and ₦10 billion monthly.

The government said these financial improvements are being reinvested into infrastructure and development projects.

Digital Governance and Civil Service Reform

The administration also announced ongoing reforms in public service delivery, including the rollout of a new e-governance system designed to improve transparency and efficiency across ministries, departments, and agencies.

Afegbua explained that the previous system was discontinued due to limited accessibility, and a more interactive platform is being developed for public use.

On civil service reforms, he said over 1,000 new workers have been employed, while long-delayed promotions have been addressed.

Infrastructure, Security, and Social Development

The state government highlighted progress in infrastructure, including road rehabilitation, school upgrades, and healthcare improvements. It said about 35 primary healthcare centres have been completed and equipped.

Ongoing work along the Benin–Auchi Road corridor has also improved mobility and reduced security risks, including incidents of kidnapping.

In the area of security, the government said it is strengthening collaboration with security agencies and deploying intelligence networks to combat crime.

Transport and Agriculture Plans

The administration also announced plans to introduce 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, with 50 expected to provide free transport services to ease mobility costs for residents.

In agriculture, Edo State says it is expanding investment in cassava, rice, and oil palm production to strengthen food security and rural livelihoods.

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The Edo State Government has demolished a property in Amagba, Benin City, linked to suspected cult members, as part of an intensified crackdown on cult-related killings across the state.

The building was reportedly used by two suspected members of the Aye confraternity who were arrested, while five others escaped.

The action was confirmed in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Patrick Ebojele.

Operation Flush Out Cultists

The demolition was carried out by the Special Security Squad, code-named Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers in Edo State, led by the Principal Security Officer to the governor.

Speaking after the exercise, the squad’s spokesperson, Eribo Enwanta, said the state’s anti-cultism law would be fully enforced.

“The governor has given us a mandate, and we will follow that mandate no matter who is involved. No one is bigger than the law,” he said.

Enwanta confirmed that four suspects — identified as Koko, Enas, Sparol, and others — remain wanted and would be arrested to face prosecution.

Youth Leaders Under Probe

The security team also summoned local youth leaders (Okiagheles) for questioning. Two of the three invited have reported and are being profiled, while Ken Dada, the Okiaghele of Obhagie, is yet to appear.

Enwanta warned that failure to honour the seven-day ultimatum could result in further action.

Interpol Tracks Suspect Abroad

Meanwhile, the squad sealed a residence in Upper Uwa, Benin, linked to Etiosa Akhiombare Joshua, also known as Baba Josh, a suspected Maphite Confraternity member accused of financing a recent killing.

Security officials disclosed that intelligence reports suggest he has relocated to Canada. The case has now been escalated to Interpol for international tracking.

Authorities allege that the suspect placed a N1 million bounty on a victim and funded the procurement of weapons used in the crime.

Anti-Cultism Law in Focus

In January 2025, Governor Okpebholo signed the Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2025, introducing stiff penalties including:

• Death penalty for cult-related killings

• 21-year jail term for active members and sponsors

• 10-year imprisonment and property demolition for landlords or school owners who harbour cultists

The state government reiterated its resolve to enforce the law strictly to end cult-related violence.

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Edo State Government has denied claims that it revoked the land titles of Presco Plc, one of Nigeria’s leading agribusiness companies.

The state clarified that the earlier circulated notice was unauthorized and misrepresented the government’s position.

A senior government official said the state only acknowledged federal jurisdiction over land containing strategic oil assets and that Presco’s full holdings were never withdrawn.

“Contrary to misinformation, Edo State is not dispossessing Presco Plc of its land. The government only acknowledged federal control over land hosting oil assets,” the official stated.

Public backlash follows earlier publication

The earlier notice, which suggested that Presco’s entire 13,545 hectares had been revoked on grounds of “overriding public interest,” had triggered widespread criticism. Analysts warned that such an action could damage investor confidence and threaten the state’s reputation as an investment hub.

Presco Plc has operated in Edo State for over 34 years, employing thousands of residents directly and indirectly. It is also one of the most profitable companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange.

Capital market investor Evans Asagwu said the government’s clarification was necessary to calm fears.

“Abrupt policy disruption sends a wrong signal to investors. This clarification brings some relief,” he said.

Government launches investigation

The state government has opened an administrative review to determine how the unauthorized notice was processed and circulated. It urged the media, investors and the public to disregard the earlier document.

“The public is advised to ignore any unauthorized notice regarding Presco Plc. Government will uphold due process and investor protection,” the statement added.

Possible next steps for Presco Plc

Presco has not yet issued an official response. Industry experts say the company may seek legal clarity or request compensation if any portion of its operational land is affected.

Economists warn that the state must balance control of mineral resources with the need to protect major agricultural investments.

“Balancing mineral resource control with agribusiness continuity is critical,” a development policy analyst said.

Stakeholders await outcome of probe

The controversy has renewed debate around Edo State’s investment policies. While the government maintains its support for large-scale agricultural investments, observers say future decisions will be closely monitored.

For now, the state insists Presco remains a valued partner and that only a small parcel of land—not the entire estate—is under review.

Stakeholders now await the findings of the administrative investigation and how the state manages the overlap between agriculture, oil exploration and investor confidence.

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……Land to Be Restored for Benin Central Hospital

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has annulled the Certificate of Occupancy previously granted to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) by former Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration.

The revocation, issued in a directive dated October 21, was justified by the governor as being in the “overriding public interest.” The action invokes the powers conferred on him under Sections 28 and 38 of the Land Use Decree No. 6 of 1978, now known as the Land Use Act.

Governor Okpebholo noted that the land formerly allocated to the Edo Museum of West African Art Trust (EMOWAA) Ltd/GTE would be reclaimed by the state and restored to its original function as the Benin Central Hospital.

In response, MOWAA clarified misunderstandings about its mission and activities in Benin City. Through its Director, Mr. Phillip Ihenacho, the museum emphasized its respect and reverence for Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting West Africa’s cultural heritage.

The museum also dismissed claims that it misrepresented itself as the “Benin Royal Museum” to secure funding, urging donors to verify directly that no such misrepresentation occurred. Director of the MOWAA Institute, Ore Disu, reiterated that the institution remains devoted to maintaining a respectful relationship with the Benin monarchy while continuing its cultural initiatives.

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The Edo State Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Yakubu Musa, has pledged the state government’s commitment to restoring transparency, order, and fairness in land administration and housing development across the state.

Speaking with journalists on Tuesday in Benin City during his first day in office, Musa, one of the newly sworn-in commissioners, said his administration would implement people-focused policies that would project Edo State as a model in land and housing reform.

“In my assumption of office today, I align fully with the visionary land and housing reform policy of Senator Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State, whose administration is deeply committed to restoring transparency, order, and fairness in land administration and housing development across the state,” Musa said.

He described the Ministry of Lands and Housing as central to the governor’s development agenda, adding that due process, digital transformation, and accountability would guide all land and housing activities.

“This ministry, being dear to the governor’s heart, stands as a vital pillar in his developmental agenda. We are ready to actualize his vision by ensuring that due process guides all land allocations, the digitization of land records is accelerated, housing delivery is expanded, and every transaction is rooted in accountability and public interest,” he said.

Musa explained that the state’s housing policy would align with Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, which focuses on Social Welfare, Housing, Infrastructure, and Economic Growth.

He added that the government would promote affordable and accessible housing projects that meet the needs of Edo citizens through partnerships with the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He also said the Ministry would embark on urban renewal projects designed to enhance community development, improve living standards, and advance the governor’s vision for a modern and inclusive Edo State.

“Our focus remains on translating the Governor’s policies into tangible results that will improve the daily lives of our people,” Musa stated.

He assured that his leadership would tackle bottlenecks and irregularities in land and housing administration, making the ministry a driver of economic growth, urban renewal, and social harmony.

“With the necessary cooperation from stakeholders, the era of inaccessibility, bottlenecks, and irregularities in land and housing will soon be a thing of the past,” he added.

Musa reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that land and housing reforms in Edo State reflect transparency, efficiency, and people-centered governance under Governor Okpebholo’s administration.

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A petrol tanker went up in flames on Saturday evening after falling at Ogheghe Junction along Sapele Road in Edo State.

Eyewitnesses said the tanker lost balance due to a bad portion of the road, spilling its content before it caught fire.

The incident caused panic in the area as residents and motorists fled to safety.

The Edo State Fire Service confirmed the incident, stating that officers and firefighting trucks were deployed to the scene around 7 p.m.

However, the agency noted that heavy traffic and motorists’ refusal to clear the way delayed their arrival.

An official from the fire service, identified as Faith, explained that despite the challenges, firefighters eventually contained the blaze and prevented it from spreading to nearby buildings and vehicles.

The Ogheghe axis of Sapele Road has long been described by motorists as a death trap due to its large potholes and poor road condition, which frequently lead to accidents.

Authorities have not reported any casualties as of press time, but traffic in the area remained heavy hours after the incident.

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Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, says no contractor has paid any bribe to secure government projects since he took office last year.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) at Government House, Benin City, the governor warned that any contractor failing to meet standards would be sacked.

“My mission is to serve Edo people selflessly. Edo’s resources are for the people, not for compromise or favouritism,” Okpebholo said. He reiterated his zero-tolerance stance on corruption, stressing that he personally monitors projects and revokes non-performing contracts.

The governor urged political parties to work together for Edo’s progress, noting, “I am not the governor of APC; I am the governor of all Edo people.” He reaffirmed his commitment to the SHINE Agenda, focusing on security, health, infrastructure, nutrition, agriculture, and education.

PRP Chairman Greg Igbinomwanhia praised Okpebholo for the Ramat Park Flyover and the regularization of 5,000 teachers, describing the flyover as “a bridge of hope.”

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