The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving public service delivery, strengthening security and enhancing traffic management across the state, while urging residents to support ongoing reforms.
The position was made known during a media briefing in Benin City by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon. Kassim Afegbua; Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Rt. Hon. Festus Ebea Odianosen; and Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Uwuilekhue Idehen.
Addressing journalists, Afegbua dismissed reports alleging that pupils died during a recent incident at a stadium during the Children’s Day celebration, describing such claims as false and misleading.
According to him, 17 pupils were affected by the incident, with 15 discharged from the hospital on the same day and the remaining two discharged the following day after receiving treatment funded by the Edo State Government.
“The children are all safe and healthy. We urge media practitioners to verify information before publication and continue to educate the public rather than spread misinformation,” he said.
Afegbua also disclosed that the state government has no outstanding salary arrears for teachers and has absorbed more than 5,000 teachers previously engaged as casual workers into the permanent workforce.
He further announced the recruitment of 2,000 health workers, saying the administration of Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo remains focused on strengthening key sectors and improving the welfare of residents.
On security matters, Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Rt. Hon. Festus Ebea Odianosen, expressed concern over the growing spread of false information on social media, particularly reports capable of creating panic and undermining public confidence.
He warned that security agencies have been directed to take action against individuals deliberately spreading fake news, especially on security-related issues.
Odianosen maintained that Edo remains one of the most peaceful states in the country, attributing the situation to the government’s sustained investment in security and public safety initiatives.
Speaking on transportation, Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Uwuilekhue Idehen, announced the enforcement of new traffic and transportation regulations aimed at reducing congestion, improving road safety and creating a more orderly transport system.
He stated that unbranded commercial vehicles will no longer be allowed to operate within the state, while commercial drivers have been prohibited from loading or dropping off passengers at unauthorized locations.
Idehen also disclosed that the offloading of goods in major urban centres will be restricted during designated hours to improve traffic flow.
In addition, motorcycles and tricycles have been barred from operating on designated highways within the metropolis, while major roads across the state will no longer be available for private ceremonies and social events.
According to the commissioner, the measures are in line with Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, which seeks to modernize the transportation sector, improve traffic management, upgrade infrastructure and ensure safer roads for residents.
The commissioners reiterated the state government’s commitment to transparency, infrastructure development, security and improved service delivery, while calling on residents to cooperate with policies designed to promote the growth and development of Edo State.
The briefing was held at the Ministry of Information and Strategy in Benin City.
