Jethro Ibileke/Benin
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has called for support from the Benin palace to have a more friendly land administrative system that would be investors friendly and in tune with his administration’s desire for the development of the State.
Obaseki who made the request on Monday when he paid official visit to the Oba of Benin, Omo n’Oba n’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, assured that his administration would ensure a friendly environment to make Edo one of the cleanest states in Nigeria.
“This kingdom used to have the best land tenure system in Nigeria, unfortunately we have lost that pride today. We want to deal with the issue of land properly so that can attract private investment to the state, we need your support to do this,” he said.
He disclosed that in the next few weeks, he would unveil plans to achieve his promise of creating 200,000 jobs for the people of the state.
Commenting on security in the State, the Governor said he would strengthen existing community policing structures like vigilance groups with a view to sharing information with conventional security agencies like the Police and DSS to have a safer society.
Responding, Oba Ewuare II who carpeted the activities of community development associations who have taken over sales of lands with very unfriendly conditions, called for the Governor’s support to halt the menace of the CDAs.
“May I use this opportunity to seek the State Government’s support in eradicating the menace of Community Development Associations in Edo South in particular and Edo state in general.
“Most of their actions have impeded the development of our communities. For the avoidance of doubt, CDAs are not supposed to be involved in land matters. Community lands as in other matters of the community are under the Enigie, Odionwere or Owhien as the case may be,” he said.
He however charged Goovernor Obaseki to ensure that he fulfils his election promises to the people.
“I have no doubt in my mind that you will deploy all your wealth of experience both in the private sector and in the immediate past administration of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole to effectively utilise the human and material resources in Edo state to take it to greater heights through good governance and provide the good people of Edo state the good dividends of democracy.
“May I use this opportunity to appreciate the State Government for its unprecedented support in the successful completion of my coronation ceremony and I pray the good relationship will continue to exist between the State Government and the palace.
“Please, Your Excellency, endeavour to deliver on your campaign promises and attract more federal support and presence, particularly my initial appeal to the Federal Government to transform Gelegele into an Export Processing Zone for agro allied industries.”
The Monarch also called on the State Government to assist in setting up cottage industries that would take the youth off the street in the seven local government areas that make up the Benin kingdom.
According to him, “The palace will partner with the State Government on the establishment of cluster industries otherwise known as mini industrial parks in the seven local governments of Edo South. Mr Governor may wish to set up a working committee in conjunction with the palace to actualize this idea.”
Governor Obaseki was accompanied on the visit by his Deputy, Philip Shaibu, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Osarodion Ogie, Chief of Staff, Taiwo Akerele and other top government functionaries.
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