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Etsako Republic, Auchi (2026)

17/07/2026

On Friday, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo swore in two commissioners, 20 permanent secretaries, and members of the Governing Council for the Edo State College of Health Sciences and Technology.

The key highlights of the appointments include:

Melody Omosah was appointed as the state's first visually impaired permanent secretary, a move the governor noted proves that ability and competence define opportunity over disability.

The governor appointed Martin Oli, a member of the Igbo community, as a commissioner to reflect his administration's focus on inclusivity.

Governor Okpebholo emphasized that these appointments reinforce his commitment to building a "New Edo" centered on merit, excellence, and equal opportunity for all qualified individuals, regardless of their background or ethnicity.

13/07/2026

Okpebholo Gives ₦1 Million Each to Rescued Edo Returnees from South Africa, Offers Soft Loans for Fresh Start….

Governor Monday Okpebholo has won widespread praise from Nigerians following his decision to provide a ₦1 million grant to each Edo indigene recently rescued from South Africa after the xenophobic attacks that forced them to return home.

Receiving the returnees at the Government House in Benin City, the governor assured them that Edo State would stand by them as they begin a new chapter in their lives.

Declaring that “home will always be a place of hope and new beginnings,” Governor Okpebholo announced that each returnee would receive ₦1 million to secure accommodation and settle down, while those interested in entrepreneurship would also have access to soft loans to establish sustainable businesses.

“You have not lost anything. Your success begins today. If you identify what you want to do, come to us and we will support you with a soft loan. For those ready to reorganise their lives, each of you will receive ₦1 million,” the governor said.

He emphasized that no Edo citizen would be abandoned, noting that the government would continue to intervene whenever its people faced hardship, whether within or outside Nigeria.

Appreciated and commendable.

12/07/2026

‎*Press Release*
‎
‎ETSAKO REPUBLIC CONGRATULATES THE NEWLY ELECTED CHAIRPERSONS OF THE THREE ETSAKO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS
‎
‎The leadership and entire community of ETSAKO REPUBLIC heartily congratulate the newly elected Executive Chairpersons of the three Etsako Local Government Areas following their successful emergence in the recently concluded local government elections in Edo State.
‎
‎We extend our warmest congratulations to:
‎
‎- Hon. Romeo Aloaye Omoike - Executive Chairman-elect, Etsako West Local Government Area
‎- Hon. Vera Sadoh - Executive Chairperson-elect, Etsako Central Local Government Area
‎- Hon. Sunny Ekpetita Ekpeson - Executive Chairman-elect, Etsako East Local Government Area
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‎We also congratulate the newly elected Vice Chairpersons and all Councillors-elect across the three local government areas. Your emergence represents a new chapter in grassroots governance and an opportunity to strengthen democratic leadership, community development, and public service across Etsako Land.
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‎The confidence reposed in you by the electorate comes with a profound responsibility to lead with integrity, transparency, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people. The expectations of our communities are high, and we encourage you to embrace this mandate as a call to selfless service rather than a privilege of office.
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‎As leaders closest to the people, you have a unique opportunity to make meaningful impacts by improving infrastructure, supporting education and healthcare, empowering youths and women, promoting local economic growth, strengthening security through community partnerships, and ensuring that every ward and community benefits from inclusive and people-centered governance.
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‎ETSAKO REPUBLIC urges the newly elected Chairpersons to foster collaboration with traditional institutions, community leaders, civil society organizations, the private sector, and development partners in order to unlock the enormous potential of Etsako East, Etsako West, and Etsako Central. Sustainable development can only be achieved through unity, accountability, innovation, and active citizen participation.
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‎We also encourage you to remain accessible to the people, maintain open channels of communication with your constituents, and ensure that transparency and accountability define your administration. Leadership is ultimately measured not by promises made but by lives transformed and communities positively impacted.
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‎As a non-partisan sociocultural and socioeconomic platform dedicated to the peace, unity, prosperity, and sustainable development of Etsako Land, ETSAKO REPUBLIC looks forward to constructive engagement with your administrations in advancing initiatives that preserve our cultural heritage, empower our people, and promote inclusive development across all our communities.
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‎Once again, congratulations on your well-deserved election. We wish you wisdom, courage, good health, and divine guidance as you assume the important responsibility of leading your respective local government councils.
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‎May your tenure be distinguished by visionary leadership, peace, accountability, and lasting achievements that will benefit present and future generations of Etsako people.
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‎Congratulations!
‎
‎Signed
‎
‎*Kelly-Daniel Oshiogwemue*
‎+234(0)8165550448
‎FOR ETSAKO REPUBLIC
‎
‎"Our Heritage. Our Strength. Our Future."
‎
‎Promoting Peace, Unity, Cultural Preservation, and Sustainable Development Across Etsako Land.

10/07/2026

‎ETSAKO REPUBLIC CONGRATULATES SENATOR FRANCIS ALIMIKHENA ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS THE OKUMAGBE OF WANNO KINGDOM
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‎The leadership and entire community of ETSAKO REPUBLIC extend our heartfelt congratulations to His Royal Highness, Senator Francis Alimikhena, on his appointment as the Okumagbe of Wanno Kingdom in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.
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‎We warmly congratulate the people of Wanno Kingdom, both at home and in the diaspora, on this significant milestone in the history of the kingdom. We also commend the successful completion of the traditional selection process and the official recognition of the revered traditional stool by the Edo State Government.
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‎The appointment, which takes effect from 6 July 2026, marks the beginning of a new chapter in the leadership of Wanno Kingdom. As a respected statesman, former Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and accomplished public servant, His Royal Highness brings to the throne a wealth of experience, wisdom, and a lifetime of service to the people.
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‎Traditional institutions remain the custodians of our history, culture, customs, and values. They play an indispensable role in promoting peace, resolving conflicts, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering sustainable development within our communities. We are therefore confident that the reign of the new Okumagbe of Wanno Kingdom will be characterized by unity, justice, inclusiveness, and visionary leadership.
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‎At a time when our communities seek greater peace, security, youth development, and economic progress, we look forward to a reign that strengthens collaboration among traditional institutions, government, community leaders, and the people in advancing the collective interests of Wanno Kingdom and the wider Etsako Nation.
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‎ETSAKO REPUBLIC also commends the Edo State Government for concluding the traditional succession process and officially recognizing the new traditional ruler in accordance with the relevant laws of the state.
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‎As a platform committed to promoting the peace, prosperity, unity, culture, and sustainable development of the Etsako Ethnic Nationality, we reaffirm our respect for traditional institutions and our readiness to support initiatives that preserve our rich cultural heritage and promote community development.
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‎Once again, we congratulate His Royal Highness, Senator Francis Alimikhena, on his well-deserved appointment as the Okumagbe of Wanno Kingdom.
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‎May your reign be blessed with wisdom, peace, good health, strength, and enduring prosperity. May Wanno Kingdom continue to flourish under your leadership, and may your reign leave a lasting legacy of unity, cultural preservation, and sustainable development for generations to come.
‎
‎Congratulations, Your Royal Highness!
‎
‎
‎Osomine Shaibu
‎For Management,
‎ETSAKO REPUBLIC
‎Our Heritage. Our Strength. Our Future.
‎Promoting Etsako Sustainable Development.

09/07/2026

Edo Government to Revamp Oba Akenzua II Cultural Centre

The Edo State Government has announced plans to rehabilitate the abandoned Oba Akenzua II Cultural Centre in Benin City and renovate parts of the Palace of the Oba of Benin.

Secretary to the Edo State Government, Musa Ikhilor, disclosed the plan while receiving members and executives of the Aiguobasinmwin Movement Worldwide and the Coalition of Benin Social Cultural Organizations, who paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Benin City.

He said that, aside from the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Centre, the Edo State Government would also renovate parts of the Palace of the Oba of Benin that require refurbishment.

He noted that the Cultural Centre, once a major venue for cultural events, will be restored as a public monument and a hub for cultural activities, helping to preserve Edo’s rich cultural heritage.

July 9,

29/06/2026

🇳🇬 ETSAKO REPUBLIC

KNOW YOUR CANDIDATE (KYC) SERIES

CANDIDATE PROFILE

HON. LAWRENCE "IMOKHAI" ANETEKHAI

"Your Negotiator with the Government"

Political Party: African Democratic Congress (ADC)

Position Being Contested: Member, Edo State House of Assembly, Etsako Central Constituency

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ABOUT THE CANDIDATE

Hon. Lawrence "Imokhai" Anetekhai is a technology executive, cybersecurity professional, software engineer, project management expert, and community development advocate seeking to represent the people of Etsako Central Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

With over 10 years of professional experience spanning Nigeria and the United States, he brings a unique blend of public sector experience, international corporate leadership, and grassroots community engagement. His campaign is founded on the conviction that legislative representation should be strategic, accountable, innovative, and focused on delivering measurable development outcomes.

Describing himself as "Your Negotiator with the Government," Hon. Anetekhai believes that elected representatives must go beyond occupying political offices to actively negotiate policies, attract government investments, and secure opportunities that improve the lives of their constituents.

His vision is to reposition Etsako Central as a constituency driven by education, technology, entrepreneurship, infrastructure development, and responsive governance.

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EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Hon. Lawrence "Imokhai" Anetekhai has built a strong academic and professional foundation that reflects his commitment to lifelong learning, innovation, and excellence.

He began his formal education at Randle Avenue Primary School, Surulere, Lagos, before proceeding to Government College, Eric Moore, Lagos, where he completed his secondary education in 1999.

He subsequently gained admission to Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, where he earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Industrial Chemistry in 2005.

Recognizing the growing importance of technology in solving modern societal challenges, he pursued advanced professional training in cloud computing, cybersecurity, software engineering, and enterprise technology.

He holds several globally recognized professional certifications, including:

- AWS Certified Solutions Architect
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)

These internationally respected certifications demonstrate his expertise in cloud architecture, cybersecurity, enterprise systems, digital transformation, and technology-driven innovation. Combined with his academic background, they have equipped him with the technical knowledge and strategic leadership skills needed to champion digital development and innovation-driven governance.

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PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Hon. Lawrence Anetekhai has built an impressive professional career across both the public and private sectors in Nigeria and the United States.

He began his career with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), serving as Personal Assistant to a Director, where he gained firsthand experience in governance, public administration, policy implementation, and institutional management.

He later transitioned into the global technology industry, working with eight Fortune 10 companies across sectors including:

- Banking and Financial Services
- Information Technology
- Cybersecurity
- Pharmaceuticals
- Government Mortgage Systems (including Fannie Mae)
- Insurance
- Enterprise Digital Solutions

He currently serves as a:

- Lead Project Manager
- Software Engineer
- Solutions Architect

His career has involved leading complex technology projects, developing enterprise software solutions, strengthening cybersecurity frameworks, managing multidisciplinary teams, and delivering high-impact digital transformation initiatives.

According to him, these experiences have strengthened his ability to solve complex problems, manage resources effectively, negotiate strategic outcomes, and deliver measurable results—qualities he believes are essential for effective legislative representation.

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LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

Hon. Lawrence Anetekhai has consistently demonstrated leadership through professional excellence, innovation, mentorship, and community service.

His leadership style is rooted in:

- Accountability
- Strategic thinking
- Innovation
- Transparency
- Collaboration
- Results-oriented service

Throughout his career, he has led teams, managed large-scale projects, mentored young professionals, and championed initiatives that empower others through education, technology, and skills development.

He believes leadership is not about titles but about creating opportunities, solving problems, and improving people's lives.

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COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Community development remains central to Hon. Lawrence Anetekhai's vision for public service.

He has actively supported initiatives focused on:

- Youth empowerment
- ICT and digital literacy
- Public library development
- Technology education
- Digital access programmes
- Skills acquisition
- Mentorship for young people
- Innovation and entrepreneurship

His goal is to expose young people in Etsako Central to modern technology, digital careers, and global opportunities while promoting education and sustainable economic growth.

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PERSONAL MOTIVATION FOR SEEKING OFFICE

Hon. Lawrence Anetekhai says his decision to contest for the Edo State House of Assembly is driven by a desire to provide purposeful representation, stronger advocacy, and effective leadership for the people of Etsako Central Constituency.

He believes the constituency deserves a representative who will:

- Negotiate effectively with government.
- Attract development projects.
- Promote transparency and accountability.
- Expand educational opportunities.
- Empower young people and entrepreneurs.
- Ensure every community has a stronger voice in government.

According to him, Etsako Central has experienced years of underdevelopment despite its enormous potential. He believes the constituency deserves leadership capable of transforming political representation into practical development outcomes.

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LEGISLATIVE AGENDA & DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES

💻 Technology and Digital Education

Within his first year in office, Hon. Anetekhai proposes to establish fully functional Information Technology laboratories across:

- Fugar
- Ekperi
- South Uneme
- Ogbona

The initiative aims to provide digital skills training, improve access to technology, and prepare young people for opportunities in the global digital economy.

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💼 Small Business and Entrepreneurship

To stimulate economic growth, he plans to introduce community-based financing systems that will provide:

- Access to affordable capital
- Business development support
- Entrepreneurial training
- Sustainable growth opportunities for small businesses

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🚌 Transportation and Infrastructure

Recognizing transportation as a major challenge, he intends to advocate for a safer, more reliable, and affordable transportation system connecting communities within Etsako Central to major towns such as Auchi and Agenebode.

Improved transportation, he believes, will enhance commerce, education, healthcare access, and overall economic development.

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LEADERSHIP VISION

Hon. Lawrence Anetekhai envisions an Etsako Central where:

- Every young person has access to quality digital education.
- Innovation drives economic prosperity.
- Small businesses receive meaningful support.
- Communities enjoy improved infrastructure and connectivity.
- Government remains transparent, accountable, and responsive.
- Legislative representation produces measurable improvements in people's lives.

His campaign is built on the belief that strong representation requires strategic negotiation, effective leadership, and a relentless commitment to public service.

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CONCLUSION

Hon. Lawrence "Imokhai" Anetekhai brings together experience in governance, global technology, cybersecurity, software engineering, project management, and community development.

His combination of public sector exposure, international corporate experience, and grassroots engagement positions him as a candidate seeking to leverage innovation, strategic leadership, and accountability to advance the interests of Etsako Central Constituency.

As he seeks election into the Edo State House of Assembly, he presents a vision focused on education, digital transformation, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, infrastructure development, and responsive representation.

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🇳🇬 ETSAKO REPUBLIC

KNOW YOUR CANDIDATE (KYC) SERIES

Theme: "Engaging Leaders. Informing Citizens. Strengthening Democracy."

Disclaimer: This profile is published as part of the ETSAKO REPUBLIC Know Your Candidate (KYC) Series, a non-partisan civic engagement initiative aimed at promoting informed voter participation through issue-based democratic dialogue. ETSAKO REPUBLIC provides equal opportunities for qualified candidates of Etsako origin to present their background, experience, vision, and policy priorities, enabling citizens to make informed electoral decisions based on competence, character, capacity, and commitment to public service.

Written by Kelly-Daniel Oshiogwemue

24/06/2026

FG Increases Conditional Cash Grant from ₦10,000 to ₦25,000; Questions Arise Over Beneficiary Selection in Etsako Communities

By Etsako Republic News Desk

The Federal Government has reportedly increased the Conditional Cash Grant under the Renewed Hope Social Investment Programme from ₦10,000 to ₦25,000, a move aimed at providing additional support to vulnerable Nigerians facing economic challenges.

The disclosure was made by officials involved in the implementation of the programme to the Jigawa State Commissioner, they noted that the upward review is intended to improve the welfare of low-income households and strengthen social protection efforts across the country.

The cash grant forms part of the Federal Government's broader intervention programmes targeted at vulnerable citizens, women, youths, small-scale entrepreneurs, and economically disadvantaged households.

While many Nigerians have welcomed the increase, concerns continue to grow among residents of several Etsako communities regarding the transparency of the beneficiary selection process and the apparent low level of awareness about the programme.

Concerns from Etsako Communities

Across Etsako Land, many citizens say they are unaware of individuals who have benefited from the programme within their communities.

Several residents have questioned:

- How beneficiaries are identified and selected.
- Whether communities are adequately represented in the national social register.
- The criteria used in determining eligibility.
- The level of participation of local stakeholders in the registration process.
- Whether all wards and communities are fairly captured.

The concerns have renewed calls for greater transparency and public enlightenment to ensure that eligible citizens are not excluded from government intervention programmes.

Need for Public Awareness and Inclusion

Development experts have consistently emphasized that social intervention programmes achieve better results when communities are adequately informed and involved.

For many citizens in Etsako East, Etsako West, and Etsako Central Local Government Areas, access to information remains a major challenge. As a result, many potentially eligible beneficiaries may not know how to register, verify their status, or access available support programmes.

Call for Transparency

Etsako Republic believes that government intervention programmes should be implemented in a manner that is transparent, inclusive, and accessible to all qualified citizens regardless of location or social status.

There is a need for relevant government agencies to:

- Publish clear beneficiary selection criteria.
- Strengthen community sensitization efforts.
- Engage traditional institutions and community leaders.
- Provide regular updates on programme implementation.
- Ensure fair representation of rural communities.
- Establish channels for complaints and verification.

Ensuring No Community Is Left Behind

As economic pressures continue to affect households across the country, social protection programmes remain important tools for supporting vulnerable citizens.

However, for such programmes to achieve their intended objectives, citizens must not only be aware of them but must also have confidence that the selection process is fair, transparent, and free from discrimination.

Etsako Republic calls on relevant authorities to provide greater clarity on the implementation of the programme and to ensure that eligible citizens across Etsako Land are given equal opportunities to benefit from government interventions.

The platform will continue to monitor developments and amplify the voices of citizens on issues affecting the welfare, development, and prosperity of Etsako communities.

24/06/2026

LPPC Suspends SAN Privileges of Eminent Etsako Lawyer, Mike Ozekhome, Phd Pending Disciplinary Proceedings

By Etsako Republic News Desk

Prominent constitutional lawyer and renowned Etsako son, Prof. Mike Agbedor Abu Ozekhome, SAN, has come under the spotlight following reports that the Legal Practitioners' Privileges Committee (LPPC) has suspended his right to use the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) pending the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings.

The development has generated significant discussion within legal and public circles given Prof. Ozekhome's long-standing reputation as one of Nigeria's most respected constitutional lawyers, human rights advocates, and public commentators.

According to reports, the LPPC's action is connected to issues currently under review by the Committee as part of its statutory responsibility to preserve the integrity, prestige, and professional standards associated with the SAN rank. The LPPC is the body legally empowered under Nigerian law to confer, regulate, suspend, or withdraw the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria where necessary.

While details of the disciplinary process are still unfolding, legal observers note that suspension pending investigation does not amount to a final determination of guilt, as the affected individual retains the right to fair hearing and due process under the law.

The LPPC has, in previous cases, suspended or withdrawn SAN privileges from legal practitioners pending investigations, while also restoring such privileges where allegations were not substantiated after review.

A Distinguished Etsako Son

Prof. Mike Ozekhome remains one of the most accomplished legal minds to emerge from Etsako Land and Edo State.

Over several decades, he has built a distinguished career as:

- A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN)
- Constitutional lawyer
- Human rights activist
- Author and public intellectual
- Advocate for democracy and the rule of law
- Defender of civil liberties and constitutional governance

His contributions to legal scholarship, democratic development, and public discourse have earned him national and international recognition.

As one of Etsako's most prominent professional figures, his achievements have continued to inspire younger generations of lawyers, scholars, and public servants across the country.

Calls for Due Process

The reports have elicited mixed reactions within the legal community, with many emphasizing the need for due process and restraint in public commentary until the disciplinary proceedings are concluded.

Observers note that disciplinary mechanisms exist within professional bodies to uphold ethical standards while ensuring that affected individuals are given the opportunity to respond to allegations and defend themselves before final decisions are reached.

Etsako Republic's Position

Etsako Republic recognizes Prof. Mike Ozekhome as one of the foremost sons of Etsako Nation whose contributions to law, democracy, and national development remain significant.

As the matter remains subject to ongoing professional review, Etsako Republic urges members of the public to allow the legal process to run its full course while respecting the principles of fairness, justice, and due process.

The platform will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more official information becomes available.

24/06/2026

ETSAKO REPUBLIC NEWS

Security: Oba Ewuare II Declares Spiritual War on Kidnappers, Armed Robbers; Calls for Divine Protection of Edo State

By Etsako Republic News Desk

The Benin Monarch, Omo N'Oba N'Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, has announced plans to invoke traditional sanctions and royal curses against kidnappers, armed robbers, and other criminal elements threatening peace and security across Edo State.

The monarch made the declaration amid increasing concerns over the growing wave of insecurity, kidnappings, and violent crimes affecting communities across the state.

Addressing palace chiefs and guests, Oba Ewuare II expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation, emphasizing that extraordinary measures are necessary to safeguard lives, property, and the heritage of the Benin Kingdom.

"Today is a great day. I welcome you with the power of our ancestors. Many things that are not supposed to be happening are happening in this state. We have to pray. Those that want to destroy the kingdom will not succeed," the monarch declared.

According to the palace, a special spiritual exercise has been scheduled for July, during which traditional curses will be pronounced against kidnappers, armed robbers, and all individuals involved in criminal activities within the Benin Kingdom and Edo State.

The announcement has generated widespread discussion among citizens, with many describing it as a bold cultural and spiritual intervention that complements the efforts of security agencies in combating crime and restoring public confidence.

A Call for Collective Traditional Action Across Etsako Land

As communities across Edo State continue to grapple with security challenges, there is an increasing need for traditional institutions to play active roles in promoting peace, unity, and community safety.

Etsako Republic believes that the traditional rulers of Etsako Land can collectively adopt similar lawful cultural and spiritual initiatives by mobilizing their communities, strengthening traditional institutions, promoting intelligence sharing, and invoking the moral authority of the throne to discourage criminality.

The respected royal fathers across Auchi, Aviele, Okpella, Weppa, South Ibie, Three-Ibie, Okpekpe, South Uneme, Central Uneme, North Uneme, Ekperi, Fugar, Uwanno, Anwian, Jagbe, Avhiawun, Uzaire, and other Etsako communities have historically served as custodians of culture, justice, and communal values. Their voices remain powerful instruments for peacebuilding and social order.

While security remains the constitutional responsibility of government and law enforcement agencies, the collaboration of traditional institutions, community leaders, religious bodies, youth organizations, and citizens is essential to confronting the menace of kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, and other violent crimes.

Etsako Republic calls for stronger partnerships between traditional rulers, government authorities, security agencies, and local communities to preserve the peace, protect lives and property, and ensure that Etsako Land remains a safe and prosperous homeland for present and future generations.

Etsako Republic

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