Press Crew of Edo Deputy Governor Ejected from 60th Anniversary Colloquium Amidst Controversy.
A minor incident of controversy unfolded at the 60th anniversary colloquium commemorating the creation of the Midwest Region, now Edo and Delta states. The press crew accompanying Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, were unexpectedly asked to leave the venue of the event, the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Centre, reportedly under “orders from above.” This development led to the deputy governor leaving the ceremony when his media team was not permitted back into the venue.
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An aide to Shaibu revealed to Vanguard that the press crew had been present before being removed from the venue, causing them to relocate to the deputy governor’s residence. The security personnel cited “instructions from above” as the reason for this directive.
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The colloquium, which marked the 60th anniversary of the Midwest Region’s creation, drew an array of dignitaries, including former governors of Edo State such as Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, who now serves as a senator. Notable attendees included Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, former Chief Whip of the Senate Sir Rowland Owie, and other prominent political figures from the region.
During the ceremony, Governor Obaseki acknowledged the historical figures who played pivotal roles in the creation of the region, praising their dedication to securing a distinct political identity for the people. He noted that despite the progress made over six decades, the region still faces significant socio-economic challenges that necessitate a reevaluation of existing institutions and structures.
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Former Governor Oshiomhole lauded the colloquium’s initiative and highlighted the achievements made since the 1963 referendum. He pointed out that the present governor, Godwin Obaseki, himself, and others would not have had the opportunity to hold leadership positions if the region had remained part of the Western region.
In his address, Oshiomhole called on Governor Obaseki to revive the Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo, and Delta (BRACED) Commission—a regional entity focused on advancing the well-being of the core Niger Delta populace.
During a panel discussion session titled “60 Years After the Referendum, Which Way Midwest?”, panelists emphasized the need for Nigeria’s federal structure to be updated to align with current political dynamics. They advocated for accountable governance, a return to the 1963 federal structure, fiscal federalism, resource control, and devolution of powers as mechanisms to address the nation’s challenges.
Despite the initial hiccup involving the press crew’s expulsion, the colloquium provided a platform for meaningful discussions and reflections on the historical significance and future trajectory of the Midwest Region.
