From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has mourned the demise of the former military administrator of the defunct Bendel State, General Jeremiah Useni (retd), describing it as big loss to the people and Government of Edo State.
Recall that the late Army General served Bendel State (now Edo and Delta States) with distinction and dedication, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless citizens.
Governor Okpebholo in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, said General Useni was a true statesman who championed education reforms, oversaw the development of crucial infrastructure, and was a tireless advocate for justice.
“He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to public service, his kind spirit, optimism, and his dedication to the people of Bendel State (now Edo and Delta States).
“During his time in office, General Useni guided our people through challenging times, laid the foundation for our future prosperity, and inspired a generation of public servants.
“His leadership and vision will be deeply missed. On behalf of the people and Government of Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo extends his deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time”, the statement said.
In another development, Governor Okpebholo, yesterday, charged the Managing Director of Edo State Traffic Control Management Agency (EDSTMA), Engr. Stainless Ijeghede to check indiscriminate parking and traffic gridlock, especially in market areas.
The governor gave the charge while decorating Ijeghede with his new rank as the head of EDSTMA.
Governor Okphebholo while urging the agency to do its job well by ensuring free flow of traffic across the State, said “Edo State belongs to all of us and whatever we are doing, we should do it with care not to harm anybody. I appeal to EDSTMA to ensure that the city is well kept because whenever I drive round town, I see vehicles everywhere as the city is not well kept.
“This is your primary assignment. You should ensure the city is well kept as vehicles park indiscriminately and they are causing obstruction. Traffic is not flowing as it should and it is causing serious gridlock. Is it that you are not doing your job well?
“Is it that you are not doing your job well or because you have a new leader that is why traffic is not flowing, or because you don’t know your job?
“You people should wake up and keep the State clean. Make sure that vehicles are parked well especially in the market areas. Monitor markets very well as these areas are looking really unkempt with vehicles and buses parked indiscriminately, causing traffic gridlock. Edo people are worst hit. They suffer from this. Ensure free flow of traffic so that the people will be happy,” Governor Okpebholo stated.
The EDSTMA boss, Engr. Stainless Ijeghede, thanked Governor Okpebholo for the opportunity to serve the people of Edo State and assured him of the loyalty of the agency.
He added that his men will do their job professionally and ensure that the is free flow of traffic across the State.