-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

The Managing Director/CEO of DESOPADEC, Bashorun Askia Ogieh, in keeping to his promise of rebranding the Commission, has approved the distribution of modern working tools to staff reporters of the Media And Public Affairs Unit.

Presenting the items to staff reporters in her unit, Mrs Chinenye Ezonfade thanked the MD/CEO, Bashorun Askia Ogieh and the Board for the items, adding that the working tools would enhance performance and productivity of the unit.
The items presented to staff include HP Laptops, Android phones and Flash drives.

Other working tools procured for use in the rebranded Media and Public Affairs Unit are drone, High Tech Moving and Still Cameras, a complete Editing Suite, Public Address system, laser color/black and white Printers Desktop Computer, Television sets, Tables and Chairs.

Responding on behalf of the recipients, Mr Boniface Nzesi Ossai, thanked the MD/CEO Bashorun Ogieh, the entire Board and the Head of Media and Public Affairs unit, Mrs Ezonfade for the kind gesture and promised that they will put the items to good use.

Below are pictures from the Presentation session:

Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By FIDELIS EGUGBO :

The world has become a global village through the aid of technology, to the extent that as an event breaks, it is known by anyone who cares. Based on United Nations (UN) data, Nigeria, as at two days ago, has a population of 202, 685, 813 which is the equivalent of 2.61 per cent of the total population of the world. It is also an indisputable fact that our country is the most populous black nation in the world, with most people believing that out of every five blacks, three are from Nigeria.

With all the available human and material resources in the country, our people are still very poor, poor to the extent that there are strong indications that the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) to end extreme poverty by the year 2030 is unlikely to be met. Recent statistics also show that Nigeria has overtaken India as the country with most population of poor people in the world, despite India halving a population seven times larger than Nigeria’s. Regrettably, more than 90 million Nigerians are estimated to be living in extreme poverty, said to be living on less than $1.90 (N684) a day.

This is certainly an unhealthy development that requires proactive measures to change the hand of the clock positively. In Delta, the Governor, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa promised the people, prosperity. On assumption of office in 2015, his administration initiated different wealth creation programmes which has assisted a lot of persons to becoming entrepreneurs. But, as a technocrat who has seen that the world is increasingly technologically-driven and convinced that Deltans will benefit more from the Stronger Delta vision, Governor Okowa established Kwale Industrial Park (KIP) which is expected to harness the rich human and natural resources for the further development of the state and its people. To develop such a Park, astute industrialists and renowned administrators are required to set up their businesses in the park.

If Nigeria is to leave the extreme poverty index, government, at all levels, and individuals, will have to think outside the box and tap into the global village setting to get it right. This prompted Governor to dare to take a leap that will give the state a boost in its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), create more jobs for the people, and make the state socio-economically buoyant and exemplary to other states with the “we can do it spirit.” He led a team of technocrats to China where the team met with Chinese investors in different meetings and engaged in road shows to showcase Delta and the opportunities that abound at the Kwale Industrial Park in particular.

One may be tempted to ask, why China? But, it is a fact that there is hardly any home in Nigeria today where Made-in-China products cannot be found. According to the United Nations, the current population of China is 1,435,647,033 equivalent to 18.59 per cent of the total world population. The World Bank claims that more than 850 million Chinese people have been lifted out of extreme poverty. China’s poverty rate fell from 88 percent in 1981 to 0.7 percent in 2015, as measured by the percentage of people living on the equivalent of $1.90 or less per day in 2011.

Evidently, Nigerians are not poor because of the population; there is something that the Chinese have done to leave the extreme poverty index and Governor Okowa has moved a replicate, establishing a symbiotic relationship with the Asia giant in a bid to reposition Delta State in the global map as an industrial hub.

According to the Commissioner for Economic Planning, Dr. Barry Gbe who spoke with our correspondent after the trip, “there is so much to our visit to China in the sense that Africa is fast becoming the new bride in the block. All foreign direct investors from Asia look now at Africa. From time immemorial, we have the natural resources, and today, we are having capacity, human capital. So, Africa is very attractive for investors to look at, and then looking back at Asia, China and the rest of the world, the kind of partnership from the West is quite different from the kind of partnership and business orientation we are getting from Asia, especially, China.

Furthermore, Gbe, who was on the entourage, said, “China is attractive, and for Delta State to be among the states going to China to seek investors is a welcome development. More so, they get cheap funds from government. So, no matter the kind of investment that you go for, there is an investor that will buy into it. We had road shows and we also had business meetings with prospective investors and soonest, you will see them flow into Delta State to physically see what we went there to sell.

“So, it was an eventful and strategic trip. The things we put on the table cannot be resisted by investors. We put up as much as US$10 million that early arrivals will tap into no matter how varied the intentions are. It is about setting up factories – tyre factories and others; we also looked at industries that deal in ethanol, ceramics and we definitely believe that the $10 million is an attractive incentive.

“We also went there and offered tax discount and other incentives such as repatriation of profits. We also promised to facilitate what it will take for ease of business. The location of the proposed Industrial Park is close to gas deposits; it is close to the market and it is an environment that is a catchment area for labour supply. Simply put, it is an investment-friendly area. Again, the man who led the team, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, gave investors confidence that this state means business,” he said.

Gbe continued , “we are so certain that the investors will come. We also got expression of interest commitment from many investors and entrepreneurs. The strategic approach to seeking investors by our Governor poses to be different from what we have had in the past. It is clear that the intentions and efforts of the number one citizen of Delta State is a success story.. His intention is well cut-out and success will come because the investors are interested in the stakes the Governor has offered.

“Do not forget that we have Nigerians who are also interested but, most of them are handicapped by the paucity of capital. In Economics, we talk about needs, we also talk about wants, but, one is backed by money. So, the likely investors that are indigenous are conscious of the fact that limited funds in Nigeria do not encourage entrepreneurs. Yes, we have Nigerians that are looking forward to participate but, the whole world knows that China is where you could get cheap funds and support from their government and ready to launch themselves in any part of the world and for Deltans, a lot can be benefitted from this drive.

“The Kwale Industrial Park will create employment and revamp the economy to the extent that future administrations will see the initiative by the Okowa administration as a worthy investment for the state. We are working to commence and make it attractive and buoyant and soon.. We appeal to Deltans, especially, communities around the park, to utilize and help sustain the facility. As a government, we are looking far beyond 2023 and we are so futuristic about our commitments,” he noted.

Recalling the recent visit to China, the commissioner stated that, “it was a strategic visit as all those who travelled to China have roles to play in making the Kwale Industrial Park functional. There were also key players from different agencies of federal and the state governments including the local government council Chairman, National and state Assembly officers were all involved in the trip.”

No doubt, the administration of Governor Okowa has shown commitment in positioning Delta systematically to be financially buoyant. Flooding of the cities and major towns as a result of increased rainfall are being tackled with multibillion naira storm drainage projects The Asaba International Airport has taking its correct position among topnotch airports of the world and the state Governor is constructing roads in different areas of the state which has earned him the sobriquet, Road Master. Employment is going on steadily in the civil service as vacant positions are being filled; Deltans are also being trained to acquire different skills and equipped to carry on with their trades.

Obviously too, the streets are looking friendlier, businesses are springing up and more importantly, the people are happier. No doubt, the Kwale Industrial Park will, provide the icing in the development strides of the governor; all that matters now is for all Deltans to think positive things, act positively and positive things will come to Delta and everyone will applaud Governor Okowa in the nearest future for his outstanding legacies.

“And no man, when he hath lighted a lamp, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but putteth it on a stand, that they that enter in may see the light. For nothing is hid, that shall not be made manifest; nor [anything] secret, that shall not be known and come to light. Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that which he thinketh he hath.” Luke 8:16-18.

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Mike Sogbola

Air Task Force (ATF) of Operation LAFIYA DOLE has destroyed an Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) Terrorists’ hideout and neutralized some of their fighters at Arrinna Ciki on the fringes of the Lake Chad in the Northern part of Borno State.

The strike, according to the Nigerian Air Force Director of Public Relations and Information, Commodore IBIKUNLE DARAMOLA, was accomplished through air strikes conducted on 1 and 2 November 2019, sequel to intelligence reports indicating that the terrorists were using the settlement as a staging area to launch attacks against own forces.

“The air strike on 1 November was initiated when a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform, on confirmatory reconnaissance mission, spotted some ISWAP vehicles under some trees in the area. Accordingly, the ATF scrambled its fighter jets to attack the location, recording successful strikes to immobilize the vehicles.

“Similarly, a follow-up attack was executed on 2 November after significant activity was observed in another part of the settlement. This occasioned the detailing of attack aircraft to engage the identified areas resulting in the destruction of some terrorists’ structures as well as the neutralization of some of their fighters.

“The NAF, operating in concert with surface forces, will sustain its efforts to completely destroy all remnants of the terrorists in the Northeast”, the Nigerian Air Force Director of Public Relations and Information hinted.

-Blank NEWS Online NIGERIA:

FAKE OPERATION: ARMY URGES NIGERIANS TO DISREGARD BRICKS PUBLICATION ON THE PURPORTED NIGERIAN ARMY OPERATION POSITIVE IDENTIFICATION

Following the widespread apprehension on the purported Nigerian Army (NA) operation positive identification from 1 November to 23 December 2019, as mischievously peddled on the social media by a hitherto unknown and fictitious organization the so called Bricks company, which alleges that the NA will conduct the operation and went ahead to state how the operation will be conducted by the Army.

Specifically, Bricks alleges that – “residents shall witness large numbers of uniformed Nigerian Army personnel parading the roads in an exercise known as OPI”.

The NA wishes to inform members of the public that it has nothing to do with the so called Bricks company and its illusionary OPI, it is not an army operation and the NA does not create any operation with such name or abbreviation in all its operations across the nation in a manner maliciously presented by the so called Bricks company.

Similarly, NA has never issued press release through private companies or third parties because it has a full fledged Directorate that coordinates its public relations and Information aspects which has a robust cordial working relationship with the press.

Recall that in order to compliment the ongoing operation in the North East, NA has an ongoing operation positive identification which is intelligence driven, deliberate, targeted operation and not an independent operation but is integral and complimentary to Operation LAFIYA DOLE in the North East. The aim of the operation is to arrest all those terrorists fleeing or escaping the war zone/Theatre of operation to a safe haven or peaceful areas in Nigeria.

Members of the public are hereby enjoined to discountenanced the hitherto faceless and mischievous Bricks company and its alleged NA OPI.

The NA wishes to use this opportunity to enjoin all Nigerians to cooperate with the NA and indeed all other security agencies by giving credible information that will assist in the identification and eventual arrest of the fleeing criminals/terrorists in any part of our beloved country.

SAGIR MUSA
Colonel
Acting Director Army Public Relations
1 November 2019

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Michael EKOKORUWE

The people of Irri kingdom in Isoko South local government area of Delta State, have adopted the amended constitution of Irri Development Union for the liberation of the community from vices and reproach towards promoting peace and unity, good governance, freedom, equity and justice.

They commended Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, governor of Delta State for locating the State technical college in the area during the community conference held at Irri Town Hall, Isoko South local government area.

While declaring the conference open, HRM Joshua F.E. Aghagba, Amathovo 1, the Odiologbo of Irri kingdom, represented by Prince Dr. Joseph Aghagba, urged the delegates from the six quarters of the community, Enuru, Uzi, Okpara, Edhukwe, Okogho and Eviewho to be peaceful and orderly during the review of the constitution and commended members of transition committee for calling the conference and keeping their promise to deliver the constitution within three months.

The monarch also urged members of the committee to read the dratted constitution to the people and ensure it is accepted, noting that the development of the community by the state government depend on a peaceful environment devoid of leadership tussle towards promoting sustainable development of the area.

Speaking during the conference, Mr Odueme Oletu Glory, chairman of the transition and constitution drafting committee, disclosed that the mandate of three months given to the committee was strictly followed to ensure that the constitution was ready.

Odueme commended Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, governor of Delta State and Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, chairman Isoko South local government area for the state technical college sited at Irri Community, adding that the renovation and fencing of Omode primary school is near completion even as another contractor has been mobilized and has commenced the fencing of Irri primary school.

He commended the monarch and former chairmen of the community for opportunity given to the transition committee to pilot the affairs of the community amend the constitution. He also thanked the Edio in council for their support during the drafting of the constitution.

Odueme thanked the people of Irri community for their cooperation just as the constitution was read by the secretary Mr. Felix Ovetiri page by page to ensure correction and adoption. After long debate and review of the draft constitution, motion for adoption was moved by Mr. Isike David and supported by Mr. Oghale clement.

The adopted constitution was declared valid document of Irri development union by the chairman of the committee Mr. Odueme Oletu Glory even as a copy of the adopted constitution was presented to the monarch at his palace. The royal majesty commended member of the transition committee and prayed for all inclusive governance through purposeful leadership using the constitution.

In attendance was Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, Chairman Isoko South local government area, represented by Chief Philip Odubu, the State Security Service, the Nigeria Army and police that observed the process of the amended constitution.

Others are hon Bino Owhebe, state youth chairman People’s Democratic Party, former chairmen of the community, pastor Emma Odhigbo and Chief Igorigo Godday, the two councilors representing Irri kingdom, the Edio in council and a cross section of the community men, women and youth.

IRRI KINGDOM ADOPTS AMENDED CONSTITUTION,

COMMENDS OKOWA FOR TECHNICAL COLLEGE

BY MICHAEL EKOKORUWE

The people of Irri kingdom in Isoko South local government area of Delta State, has adopted the amended constitution of Irri development union for the liberation of the community from vices and reproach towards promoting peace and unity, good governance, freedom, equity and justice.

They commended Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, governor of Delta State for locating the State technical college in the area during the community conference held at irri town hall, Isoko South local government area.

While declaring the conference open, HRM Joshua F.E. Aghagba, Amathovo 1, the Odiologbo of Irri kingdom, represented by Prince Dr. Joseph Aghagba, urged the delegates from the six quarters of the community, Enuru, Uzi, Okpara, Edhukwe, Okogho and Eviewho to be peaceful and orderly during the review of the constitution and commended members of transition committee for calling the conference and keeping their promise to deliver the constitution within three months.

The monarch also urged members of the committee to read the dratted constitution to the people and ensure it is accepted, noting that the development of the community by the state government depend on a peaceful environment devoid of leadership tussle towards promoting sustainable development of the area.

Speaking during the conference, Mr Odueme Oletu Glory, chairman of the transition and constitution drafting committee, disclosed that the mandate of three months given to the committee was strictly followed to ensure that the constitution was ready.

Odueme commended Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, governor of Delta State and Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, chairman Isoko South local government area for the state technical college sited at Irri Community, adding that the renovation and fencing of Omode primary school is near completion even as another contractor has been mobilized and has commenced the fencing of Irri primary school.

He commended the monarch and former chairmen of the community for opportunity given to the transition committee to pilot the affairs of the community amend the constitution. He also thanked the Edio in council for their support during the drafting of the constitution.

Odueme thanked the people of Irri community for their cooperation just as the constitution was read by the secretary Mr. Felix Ovetiri page by page to ensure correction and adoption. After long debate and review of the draft constitution, motion for adoption was moved by Mr. Isike David and supported by Mr. Oghale clement.

The adopted constitution was declared valid document of Irri development union by the chairman of the committee Mr. Odueme Oletu Glory even as a copy of the adopted constitution was presented to the monarch at his palace. The royal majesty commended member of the transition committee and prayed for all inclusive governance through purposeful leadership using the constitution.

In attendance was Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, Chairman Isoko South local government area, represented by Chief Philip Odubu, the State Security Service, the Nigeria Army and police that observed the process of the amended constitution.

Others are hon Bino Owhebe, state youth chairman People’s Democratic Party, former chairmen of the community, pastor Emma Odhigbo and Chief Igorigo Godday, the two councilors representing Irri kingdom, the Edio in council, the community vigilante and a cross section of the community men, women and youth.

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has assured that the judgment of the Supreme Court on the petition by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, on the February 23 presidential election will not deter the opposition in its constitutional role of ensuring checks and balances in the system.

House Minority Leader, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, in a statement on Wednesday, noted that the judgment was surprising to many Nigerians but pointed out that the Supreme Court is the highest court in the land, which makes its decision final.

Elumelu however assured that the development will not detract them from the commitment and determination of the opposition in the House of Representatives to always protect the interest of Nigerians by ensuring accountability, equity, fairness and strict adherence to the rule of law in all aspects of governance.

He also commended Nigerians for standing with the PDP throughout the litigation process and assured that all hope is not lost, as the opposition will continue to insist on due process as well as propagate alternatives on programmes and policies in the general interest of the citizens.

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Albert OGRAKA:

The usual jubilation that follows victories at the courts was lacking in most parts of the country, following the judgement of Nigeria’s Apex court on the 2019 Presidential election.

The Supreme Court of Nigeria on Wednesday, October 30, 2019, had dismissed the appeals filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, challenging the victory of President Muhammadu Buhari at the February 23 poll.

The seven-man panel of the apex court led by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Tanko Mohammed said the panel agreed that there is no merit in the appeal after reviewing the case for two weeks.

The Appeal was thereby dismissed while reasons for the dismissal of the appeals would be given in a later date.

The CJN led the seven-man panel which included Justices Bode Rhodes-Vivour, Kayode Ariwoola, John Okoro, Amiru Sanusi, Ejembi Eko and Uwani Abba-Ajji.

Justice Muhammad and other six members of the panel filed into the courtroom at about 9.09 a.m. on Wednesday set for the hearing.

The National Chairmen of both the PDP and the All Progressives Congress – Uche Secondus and Adams Oshiomhole, respectively, are also seated in the courtroom with a handful of their party supporters.

Atiku and his party were challenging the September 11 judgment of the Justice Mohammed Garba-led Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal which affirmed President Buhari’s victory at the polls.

Reacting to the Supreme Court ruling on Wednesday in a statement made available to Blank NEWS Online, the National Chairman, Prince Uche Secondus said that the nation’s apex court has ruled but the final judgement comes from God almighty.

“We thank you for your support for PDP, for your commitment to democracy. Nigerians know that you voted PDP, even APC knows that you rejected them on February 23, 2019, international community knows you voted for PDP, if Supreme Court of seven justices says otherwise, leave it to God the ultimate Judge.”

He also commended the press, the fourth estate of the realm for their commitment to democracy and good governance in our land but urged them not to relent in their roles of holding politicians accountable to the people.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

The people of Ibrede community in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State has at last selected one of their own, Mr Aruhor Gregory as the new Odio-Ologbo of Ibrede Community.

Mr Aruhor Gregory from Edi family was picked as the new Odio -Ologbo following the death of HRM Douglas Illiromah and subsequent assumption and expiration of his eldest son, Mr Patrick Illiromah as regent for three years.

The selection of the new Odio Ologbo which took place at the weekend at the community Market Square was witnessed by sons and daughters of Ibrede, the Odio- Uru, the Council of Edios, the chiefs, the Oletu-Ologbo, the conference and OSU- Egweya- Ologbo and presided over by the President General of Ibrede community, Dr. Esi Oweh.

Shortly before the enthronement of the new Odio Ologbo which is not hereditary but rotational, the two quarters, Uruewo and Urethatho of Ibrede had presented Mr Aruhor Gregory and Uche Othuke Ibeni who the constitution stipulated must be persons of impeccable characters and that the family that has the privilege before will not be given again until all other family in the quarter has enjoyed the privilege.

At the end of the selection, the retired DSS officer was unanimously and overwhelmingly picked following his pedigree to the admiration of all and sundry.

The Odio-Ologbo who is the Paramount and spiritual head of Ibrede community constitutionally perform amongst other functions to include, determination of cases involving members of Ibrede community who are not satisfied with the decision given by either the chairman of the community or the Iletu and shall confer chieftaincy titles on any person who is a member of Ibrede community.

The new Odio Ologbo of Ibrede Community would be coronated at a later date.

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Albert OGRAKA:

In a bid to get value for taxpayers’ money invested on road construction, Delta State Government may slam three years retention period on contractors.

This was disclosed in a meeting with the contractors and other stakeholders as convened by the Commissioner for Works, Chief James Augoye and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Peter Mrakpor on Tuesday, October 29, 2019 in Asaba.

At the meeting, the Commissioner for Works, Chief James Augoye lamented that despite the huge sums of money invested by the state government on road construction, taxpayers do not get value for their money.

In the same vein, the Commissioner for Justice Barr Peter Mrakpor observed that failed roads do not speak well of the state government, stressing that engineers who approved such roads will be prosecuted forthwith.

“If a road fails within one year, have we gotten the value of our money? That is why we have decided that any road which fails within a given period of time, such contractors would come back for repairs at his own cost” he asserted.

After much negotiations to reduce the retention period from a proposed five years period, both commissioners appealed to the contractors to deliver projects that will endure the test of time, adding that the retention fee will be paid in percentages after practical completion of project.

Speaking also, the state Sector Commander of Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Delta State, Mr. Ocheja Ameh appealed to contractors to involve the agency during construction work in the state to ease human and vehicular movement.

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Mike Sogbola

The last definitely has not be held of the barring of activities of two international non governmental agencies, Action Against Hunger and Mercy Corps, as Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF), otherwise called Doctors Without Borders accused the military of spurious accusations.

Hope of the assumption of activities of the two ban organisations were raised last week when Mark Lowcock, United Nations Under-Secretary after his visit to Nigeria, in a statement, revealed that the discussion with Nigeria authorities was fruitful and assurances have been given on the lifting of the ban.

But on Monday, MSF, in a statement alleged that instances of violence, abuse and deprivation is almost normalized in the North-East.

It argued that humanitarian agencies, operating in the troubled Nigeria North-East, must be allowed to play their roles in an independent, neutral and impartial manner.

It warned that: “Disruptions of humanitarian assistance, including food aid, have life-threatening consequences, particularly for the most vulnerable.”
The MSF lamented that the conflict in northeast Nigeria still leaves Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states in need of a massive and sustained humanitarian response.

The statement, read in part, said: “A decade of conflict has disrupted the lives of millions of people almost to a point where violence, abuse, and deprivation has become normalized.”

It said: “Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) remains committed to providing high quality medical assistance to the population of northeast Nigeria,” stressing that “aid must be delivered impartially and neutrally to all in need, in line with international humanitarian law.”

It said: “Serious medical needs remain widespread in northeast Nigeria, while essential items and clean drinking water are scarce; in the first half of 2019 alone, MSF admitted more than 15,000 patients on an emergency basis, treated over 8,000 patients for malaria, ensured 2,446 safe deliveries and vaccinated 9,117 people against measles.”

MSF said: “Humanitarians, by definition, strive to reach the most vulnerable people in need. However, today, we are only able to reach a part of these people. Nearly one million people remain in areas with no access to much-needed assistance due to ongoing hostilities, impassable roads or restrictions on the movement of people, aid and goods.

“Inside government-controlled areas, hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people are entirely dependent on humanitarian aid for survival. Disruptions of humanitarian assistance, including food aid, have life-threatening consequences, particularly for the most vulnerable. This, along with continued insecurity in the area that prevents people from farming or fishing, risks creating another nutrition crisis.”

It added that: “Even as the population continues to bear the brunt of the decade-long conflict, aid organisations face limitations in caring for them. Humanitarian aid has been repeatedly targeted throughout the conflict, with aid workers that have been killed, as well as recent forced suspensions of vital assistance amidst spurious accusations of NGOs furthering the conflict.
“Humanitarian aid workers, medical staff and civilians in conflict zones are not party to the conflict, nor a target.Following the statement released today by the United Nations Under-Secretary General and Humanitarian Chief, MSF stresses that in times of conflict, humanitarian aid must be able to play its role in an independent, neutral and impartial manner. 

“Not only does this guarantee the quality of assistance, but it also protects front line workers. These principles must be respected by all parties to the conflict, the Nigerian authorities, United Nations’ representatives and agencies and international non-governmental organisations working in the northeast.”

The statement added that: “Today, the population of northeast Nigeria and humanitarian organisations seeking to care for them need more support than ever.

“Since the conflict in northeast Nigeria began in 2009, approximately 35,000 people have been killed, while 1.8 million people have been displaced from their homes and a further 230,000 people have fled to neighbouring Chad, Cameroon and Niger. 

“MSF has worked continuously in Nigeria since 1996 and in northeast Nigeria since 2014 and will continue to provide lifesaving medical care for those in need, irrespective of race, religion, creed or political convictions. Today, the population of northeast Nigeria and humanitarian organisations seeking to care for them need more support than ever.”

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-led opposition in the House of Representatives at the weekend, picked  holes in the N10.33 trillion 2020 budget, insisting that the annual estimate will be subjected to thorough legislative scrutiny to ensure that it reflect the general aspiration of over 200 million Nigerians.

Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, in a statement on Sunday maintained that though the House had resolved to pass the budget before the end of the year, the details, particularly the capital expenditure items and implementation modules must meet the yearning of Nigerians before the budget is passed into law.

The Minority Leader noted that the opposition “recognizes the fact that Nigerians look up to them to protect their interest in critical issues that directly affects their lives, particularly on budget planning and implementation in key sectors.”

Consequently the opposition assures that the details of the N2.46 trillion capital budget must be dissected and adjusted accordingly to ensure that critical needs of Nigerians are adequately accommodated, as well as to plug waste and eliminate budgetary corruption at every stage.

According to the Minority Leader, “Given the sorry state of our infrastructure, the opposition must ensure that the votes earmarked by Mr. President for the rehabilitation of roads, power infrastructure, health services, agriculture, water resources, education among other critical sectors are thoroughly scrutinized to guarantee full implementation as well as reflect the federal character principle across board”.

The minority leadership frowned at reports that certain committees barred the media from covering their budget defence sessions.

The Minority Leader insisted that budget defence must be in the open and more so, transparent, so that Nigerians are fully carried along in all the processes leading to budgetary decisions in all critical sectors

The minority leadership has therefore directed all opposition members in various committees to ensure strict compliance with the democratic principles of transparency, accountability and prudence in the budget planning as well as in the implementation oversight of both the capital and recurrent components.

The opposition further guaranteed that it is poised to fully monitor the implementation of special intervention funds for the unemployed as well as the welfare of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North East and other parts of the country to ensure that the money is not diverted as witnessed in the past under a former Secretary of the Government of the Federation (SGF).  

Furthermore, the minority leadership assured that the opposition will take critical look at all revenue projection from Value Added Tax (VAT) and other tax regimes so as to ensure balance, equity and fairness and guarantee that the masses are not overburdened in the process.

Signed:

Hon. Ndudi Elumelu
Minority Leader of the House of Representatives

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

ISOKO Monitoring Group, IMG, yesterday, stressed the need for the Federal Government to extend the proposed forensic audit of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, to the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and Presidential Amnesty Program.

It added that the move to probe NDDC and other federal government parastatals that are charged with the responsibility of developing and empowering the Niger Delta people is long overdue and tasked the President Muhammadu Buhari led government not to pay mere lip service over the planned probe by not making it one of the many political jamborees of the APC led administration.

IMG, in a press statement signed by its official Spokesperson, Dr. Kingsley Oroh and made available to newsmen on Wednesday, said that “all true sons and daughters of Niger Delta have been worried over the recklessness, misappropriation and mismanagement of the NDDC in fulfilling its core mandate of developing the Niger Delta area”. The group also lemented the negative effects of crude oil exploration of multinationals operating in the Niger Delta as well as the deplorable situation of roads, electricity and other basic necessity in the region.

The statement reads in part: “there is hardly any reasonable project done by the NDDC that can stand the test of time. Often, what we see in Niger Delta are either substandard projects done with outrageous costs or leagues of abandoned projects, whose contractors have been paid in full.

“These abnormalities have continued unabated for about two decades to the detriment of the Niger Delta people. Hence, our spirit is lifted and our hope rekindled over the presidential decision for a forensic audit of the Commission.

“Our fears, however, has to do with the inability of the Federal Government to take appropriate actions in doing what is necessary when it is needed most. The forensic audit and probe of the NDDC will be one of the best service that the President Muhammadu Buhari administration will render to the Niger Delta people.

“So, it should not be taken lightly or end up being one of many political jamborees of this administration. It must not also be used as a political witch hunt on anyone. We recommend that a thorough auditing of the Commission should be carried out by a reputable auditing firm and everyone found wanting irrespective of their status or political alignment should be prosecuted and brought to book to serve as deterrent to subsequent boards.

“For the matter of fact, we would love the audit to focus utmost attention on Delta State because it is obvious that NDDC Representatives and Contractors are worse off here. In Delta, there is no landmark project that can be ascribed to NDDC.

“May we also use this opportunity to call on President Muhammadu Buhari to use this golden opportunity to audit and probe the Ministry of the Niger Delta Affairs and the Presidential Amnesty Program since their establishment. The reason being that these Parastatals or interventionist agencies that are expected to carry out federal government developmental and empowerment programs in the Niger Delta region have also failed woefully in their operations.

“For instance, the Isoko ethnic group in Delta State that has contributed immensely into the commonwealth of this country through its many onshore crude oil wells and gas deposits, has been barren in terms of development. Despite the operations of Shell, Agip, Heritage, First Hydrocarbon and other oil servicing firms in the area, one can hardly see a motorable road in the area. Electricity is nothing to write home about and the youths of the area have never partaken in the Niger Delta Amnesty program.

“Overall, the Isoko ethnic group has nothing to show for contributing its quota to the purse of this country since 1958 that crude oil was discovered in Uzere in commercial quantity. This is an aberration. The terrible situation of the East-West road has further confirmed our fears that the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs need urgent probe”.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) – By Albert OGRAKA:

The Managing Director/CEO of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Bashorun Askia Ogieh, has been honoured in acknowledgement of his track record of excellent leadership and humanitarian approach to governance.

The Centre for Peace, Transparency and Accountability together with Civil Society Groups for Good Governance, yesterday honoured the Managing Director/CEO of DESOPADEC, Bashorun Askia Ogieh by presenting him with a Certificate of Performance.

The MD/CEO, Bashorun Askia Ogieh, in response, thanked God for journey mercy granted to them from Abuja and for the lofty award of excellence embedded in the certificate of performance issued him.

Bashorun Askia had recalled how the initial frosty relationship between Civil Society Groups and the Board of DESOPADEC has now developed into a cordial one.

Speaking on behalf of the delegates, President, Civil Society Groups for Good Governance, Comrade Ogakwu Dominic said they had not come to present the certificate of performance to the MD/CEO of DESOPADEC, simply because he was the MD, but because they had kept track of his exploits over the years and determined that he deserved the honour.

Comrade Ogakwu Dominic said that the certificate was to encourage the MD to up his game, as well as to encourage him to use technology to bring positive change to DESOPADEC, as an ambassador of good leadership and a proven strategist.

He specially thanked the MD for being an outstanding leader and promised to stand by him throughout his tenure as MD/CEO, DESOPADEC.

The team included the President, Civil Society Groups for Good Governance, Executive Director, Center for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CTPA), Patrick Ogheneyero, Gladys Omana (Gender Desk Officer), Robert Christopher (Secretary, CTPA) and Okotie Humphrey (PRO, CTPA).

The Executive Director, CPTA, Patrick Ogheneyero, presented the certificate to Bashorun Askia Ogieh, amidst cheers.

The Executive DIrector Social Services, Barr Leonard Anoka and Executive DIrector, Planning Research and Statistics, Amb. Sherdrac Agediga witnessed the presentation. Other members of DESOPADEC management team present were, HOD Finance, Louis Ajieh, Executive Assistant to the MD, Mrs Duke and Acting Head of Media and Public Affairs, Mrs Chinenye Ezonfade.

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)- From Mike Sogbola:

In continuation of the sustained onslaught against terrorist elements in the Northeast of the Country, the Air Task Force (ATF) of Operation LAFIYA DOLE has neutralized several Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters at Bukar Meram on the fringes of Lake Chad in the northern part of Borno State.

A statement made available to Blank NEWS Online by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore BIKUNLE DARAMOLA disclosed that the operation was executed on Monday, 21 October 2019, based on credible intelligence reports that indicated a resumption of the use of the location to provide logistics support to the terrorists, using fishing activities as a cover.

Accordingly, the ATF dispatched its attack aircraft to engage designated areas within the settlement.

Before the strikes, over 35 terrorists were observed within the area of interest. The attack aircraft subsequently engaged the location in successive passes recording accurate hits on the target area, leading to the neutralization of several ISWAP fighters as well as the destruction of some of the structures.

The NAF, operating in concert with surface forces, will sustain its efforts to completely destroy all remnants of the terrorists in the Northeast.

-Blank NEWS Online (Shenyang, China):

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta on Tuesday said the state government was ready to provide 10 million dollars counterpart fund for prospective investors towards the construction of Kwale Industrial Park in the state.

He made this known at Kwale Industrial Park Road Show in Shenyang, China.

At the event which was attended by Chinese Government officials and potential investors, Okowa outlined the vision of the state government for an aggressive industrialization agenda.

Explaining the initiative, he said “I am here personally and along with key members of the state executive council and legislators as a sign and demonstration of our commitment to this initiative.

“Nigeria is open for business and I make bold to say that Kwale Industrial Park is a compelling investment choice.

“I want to say upfront that locating in Kwale, an industrial park opens your business to Africa’s biggest market. Nigeria, and Africa as a whole, is the world’s next frontier business to benefit from that growth.

“In Delta, we are working relentlessly to make Kwale the most investor-friendly location in Nigeria. It is a peaceful community and the support and cooperation of the community is already assured.

“I can tell you that they are eagerly waiting for the park to take off.’’ 

On incentives, the governor affirmed that the state government was creating an intervention fund of 10 million dollars in the first instance.

According to him, this is to support investors that are able to make an early decision to set up their plants in the Kwale Industrial Park. 

“The money will be utilized as a counterpart start-up equity fund from the state government to enable investors to partially de-risk their investment. 

“I am confident that some of you who have existing plants will find such equity contribution helpful in kick-starting your venture into the park.

“Delta State is also looking to collaborate with the Province of Liaoning formally in a strategic partnership. 

“We believe that such government-to-government partnership will be a confidence-booster for prospective investors and we assure them of the security of their investment,” he stated.

In his remarks, Nigeria’s Ambassador to China, Mr Baba Jidda, lauded the governor’s initiative, and challenged other state governors to key into initiative for the development of the nation. 

“I am highly impressed by the initiative of Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa in establishing the Kwale Industrial Park.

“Our responsibility here in China is to promote investment between Nigeria and China, and Delta State Government led by the governor himself has really shown the way.

“We are highly encouraged by the initiative and I want to assure you that the Chinese investors that attended the roadshow were highly impressed.

“We at the embassy will do our very best to support the initiative as we encourage other governors to emulate this positive step,” he said.

The highpoint of the roadshow was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Delta government and a Chinese agricultural company to grow and process soya bean at the Kwale park.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Albert OGRAKA:

The foreign trip of the Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa to China will afford him the opportunity to meet with key investors as part of government efforts to make Kwale Industrial Park among the best in Africa, one of Okowa’s aides Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe has revealed.

The Kwale Industrial Park is said to upon take off employ minimum of 70,000 Delrans, both skilled and unskilled labourers.

The aide presented Governor Okowa as saying: “In an effort to fast-track the takeoff of the Kwale Industrial Park, which will create more than 70,000 new jobs in Delta State, I am in China to meet with prospective investors and other key project stakeholders.”

He said Chinese industrialists are interested in partnering with government to make the state a reference point through participation in the development of the Kwale Industrial Park and other projects mapped out to further boost the economy.

“Gov Okowa’s trip to China is timely and commendable, and it’s necessary for us as Deltans to appreciate this administration for putting in place the needed strategic efforts towards the attainment of a Stronger Delta,” Oghenesivbe said.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):
By Amby Gide [Sports Desk]

The Warri Township Stadium in Warri South Local Government Area is in a deplorable state as the sports complex has technically been abandoned by the Delta State Sports Commission, headed by Mr. Tonobok Okowa, the governor’s younger brother.

At the time of filing this report, the football pitch is flooded with stagnant water even after it has stopped raining. The place is also overgrown with weed and some of the facilities in dilapidated state.

Consequently some concerned residents of the sports loving city of Warri who spoke to our correspondent on the deplorable state of the stadium, appealed to Governor Okowa to rehabilitate the edifice.

A soccer enthusiast and Warri based renowned analyst, Comrade Akpojotor Adjarho while lamenting the present state of the facility, said “It is regrettable that there is nothing to show for the huge amount of monies spent on the stadium.

“The present state of the stadium does not befit the status of Warri, an area that has produced great sports men and women.” 

He noted further that the stadium had also hosted the under-17 world soccer tournament.

Akpojotor appealed to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to rehabilitate the stadium, particularly the football pitch

A female resident, Angela Omokiniovo, who claimed to be a fan  of newly promoted Warri Wolves Football Club,  called for a probe into the monies spent on the rehabilitation of the stadium, noting that there was nothing to show for the huge amount of monies spent for the rehabilitation of the dilapidated stadium.

While, the Igbudu Agbarha Warri born Chairman of Delta State Football Association (DFA) Edema Fuludu (MON) who also expressed deep concern on the poor state of the stadium, also appealed to the state governor to give the stadium a face lift 

He noted that the stadium was a source of joy to most people, adding, “We know that Governor Okowa has spent a lot of monies on development of sports with the lean financial resources coming to state but we appeal that he should renovate the stadium through the Delta State Sports Commission.”

 -Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

In continuation of its implementation of measures at repositioning government hospitals in the Delta State for better service delivery, the Medical Director, Eku General Hospital, Dr Vincent Oziga, has been replaced with Dr Lucky Oyeye with the mandate to address the challenges being experienced by users of the hospital.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Mordi Ononye, while making the replacement known in a statement, warned that the state government would no longer hesitate to replace any medical director who failed to meet up with the responsibility of providing improved services to patients.

 The commissioner stated that leadership of government hospitals had the responsibility to provide effective and efficient services in order to be able to justify the resources government was putting into the health sector.

 He called on all staff working in the hospitals to work in the best interest of their respective hospitals and at the same time the communities with a view to address the loss of trust by the public due to decline in quality health care in the hospitals. 

Dr Onoye, in the statement, directed leadership of the hospitals to fashion out strategies to improve the quality of health delivery saying the state government had commenced renovations and facelift of hospitals and procurement of more medical equipment.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Albert OGRAKA:

The Governor of Nigeria’s oil and gas wealthy Delta state, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has arrived China for a Working Visit.

Official source from Government House, Asaba hinted Blank NEWS Online on Monday, October 21, 2019 that the Governor was received by Nigeria Ambassador to China, Amb. Baba Ahmad Jidda.

It could be recalled that Delta have had a working relationship with the Chinese government in terms of investments in roads infrastructure.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA): –From Mike Sogbola

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara has dragged his commissioner and top aides to the Boko Haram “enclave” in the northern part of the state for a retreat.

The northern part of the state is believed to be the new enclave of the insurgents who are said to be occupying Islands in the Lake Chad Basin.

A statement on Sunday from the spokesman to the governor, Mallam Isa Gusau, said the governor was currently chairing his administration’s first retreat “for commissioners, special advisers and some senior government officials like the secretary to the state government, head of service and chief of staff in Damasak, headquarters of Mobbar local government area in northern Borno.

He said the town has “remained a shadow of Itself since it was occupied by Boko Haram as a caliphate.”

Gusau recalled that: “Damasak, hitherto a major agricultural community in the fringes of the Lake Chad that is less than 10 kilometres away from Diffa in Niger Republic, was occupied and administered by Boko Haram from November, 2014 to 2016 before it was recovered by multinational forces. 

“Damasak had come under repeated attacks including early this year. Thousands of citizens who live there mostly depend on food aids and skeletal businesses.”

Gusau said the governor told commissioners in the opening remarks on Saturday evening, that the choice of Damasak, was to bring top government officials “face to face with the realities” on ground and to remind them their appointments were not opportunities for luxury but for the serious task ahead of them.

Gusau quoted the governor to have told the top government functionaries that: “By tradition, retreats are held in the most serene and oftentimes, luxurious environments‎. However, holding retreats under serene atmosphere is reserved for those who live and operate under normal circumstances. Fellow members of the state executive council, I will like to remind us very strongly that our circumstances in Borno State are not normal. If we decide to hold our retreat in Maiduguri, Abuja or perhaps at Obudu Cattle ranch in Cross Rivers state, we may not totally be true to ourselves and sensitive to the plight of our people. 

“The wisdom of convening this retreat in Damasak, headquarters of Mobbar local government area in the most troubled northern part of Borno State, is to bring all of us, face to face with the realities of our challenges in Borno. Driving from Maiduguri to this place, we have passed major towns like Gubio and Kareto which have become near ghosts of what they used to be. We have seen villages that are without human occupation. We have seen on the road, soldiers at different points, clearly indicating that all is not normal with Borno.”

He added that: “Damasak, where we are today, used to be one of Borno’s agro-economic centres. Damasak used to be a large scale producer and exporter of farm produce like tomatoes, pepper and other vegetables. Thousands of wealthy farmers and transporters, other fellow citizens have been killed, displaced to Niger Republic and forced to become beggars. We are here to remind ourselves that the oath of offices we differently took in May, June, August and September, 2019 is not for luxury. Borno has serious challenges and we have individually sworn with the Holy Qur’an and the Holy Bible to do whatever we can in trying to address the challenges facing Borno State.”

The governor also tasked the commissioners, advisers and other participants to see Damasak as an example that tells the realities of the 27 local government areas in the state. 

He informed them that timelines were going to be created for the attainment of goals determined at the retreat.

Umara said: “At this retreat, ladies and gentlemen, we shall not only come up with ideas that are achievable but insha’Allah, we shall be setting for ourselves timelines within which we are to achieve every goal we aim. We are here to spend only few days in Damasak but there are thousands of our fellow brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers, who live here on permanent basis. We are here to feel their stay and to remind us of their needs for continued safety; their needs for shelter; their needs for medical care; their needs for water; their needs for schools; their needs for means of livelihoods. 

“When we drove into this lodge, we saw hundreds of our young sons and daughters welcoming us happily. We saw wives, sisters, mothers and fathers joining them to welcome us. Whereas they all wore happy faces, we know that majority of them are in distress. We should therefore regard Damasak as an example of the realities facing all of our 27 local government areas, particularly those in northern Borno.”

Earlier, the secretary to the state government, ‎Usman Jidda had told them the objectives of the retreat, while commending the governor for his ingenious choice of location.
He said the retreat was meant for top government officials to cross fertilize ideas towards better service delivery in line with the governor’s vision and approach to governance. 

He said the retreat has many resource persons, who would discuss topics peculiar to the challenges facing the state and suggest ways to solving them.

By Nduka Orjinmo BBC News, Lagos

Nigeria’s first family, the Buharis, are embroiled in a still-developing story resembling one of Nollywood’s many Sunday-evening soap operas.

It is a story about the president purportedly taking a second wife – a female cabinet member to boot – while his wife’s furious outburst hint at deeper issues. The plot was supplied by Nigeria’s vibrant social media and was aided by Mrs Buhari’s cryptic comments. The setting is Nigeria’s presidential villa, Aso Rock.

What’s all this talk about a wedding?

The wedding at the centre of the story that was largely played out on social media involves President Muhammadu Buhari, and one of his female cabinet ministers, Sadiya Farouq.

What we do know is that President Muhammadu Buhari is married to Aisha Buhari and has not said anything about taking a new wife.

Ms Farouq has not said anything either about the purported marriage.

It could easily have been dismissed as fake news and left at that, but for a comment from Mrs Buhari.

What did Aisha Buhari say?

She had been out of the country for two months with a stop in the UK for a medical check-up. Her return was taken by those following the story as a sign that she had come back to “defend her territory”.

Her response when asked at the airport about the wedding did little to extinguish rumours that the president was taking another wife.

In an interview with BBC Hausa, the first lady offered confirmation, albeit in a very cryptic way, that there had indeed been plans for President Buhari to take a second wife, by referring to a “promise of marriage”. She also said that the purported bride-to-be was disappointed the marriage hadn’t taken place.

Mrs Buhari said: “The person that promised her marriage didn’t know it wasn’t going to happen. She [believed to be Ms Farouq] didn’t deny the marriage until the day passed.”

She spoke entirely in Hausa, measuring her words and mentioning no names. But it was clear from the interview that Mrs Buhari was upset that Ms Farouq hadn’t publicly denied rumours of the marriage .

To further complicate matters, the minister’s Twitter account denied commenting on the rumours, rebutting claims made by a fake account in her name that had actually denied the story.

The minister’s account tweeted: “It has come to my attention that a fake Twitter account @Sadiya_farouq_ has been created in my name.

“I wish to inform my followers and well-meaning Nigerians to disregard the handle and any information posted on it. My official Twitter handle remains @Sadiya_farouq”.

Some say she missed an opportunity to quash the rumours with a firm denial.

So who is Sadiya Farouq?

At 45 years of age, she is one of the younger ministers in Mr Buhari’s cabinet and heads the newly created Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management & Social Development.

Little was known of her before she was appointed by Mr Buhari in August to lead the newly created ministry. The ministry’s creation and her appointment came as a surprise to many, but those who know her say she’s been a staunch supporter of the president for decades.

She was head of the country’s National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and was a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign council, where she was in charge of election planning and monitoring, field operations, and fund raising.

So was there a wedding?

No.

The wedding was supposed to have been planned last Friday, 11 October, but the Twitter account of Sadiya Farouq showed she was far away in the Swiss city of Geneva from Thursday, leading Nigeria’s delegation at a meeting of the United Nations refugees agency.

She did not return to Nigeria until Tuesday, based on what she posted on the same account.

But that didn’t deter Nigeria’s social media users, especially on Twitter, from providing the guest list, a venue and entertainment.

This user even designed the wedding card:

A Nigerian wedding is not complete without an aso-ebi, the colourful attire worn by close friends and family on the day. This user recycled an old photo not related to a wedding:

And what’s all this about a family feud?

A sub-plot to the fake wedding story is the strained relations between different members of the wider Buhari family.

We now know, courtesy of that BBC Hausa interview, that a viral video that circulated on social media of Aisha Buhari in an angry outburst was genuine. She confirmed the authenticity of the video which she said was recorded by a relative of the president who lives in Aso Rock, some time in 2018.

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Mrs Buhari says the video was filmed by Fatima Daura, daughter of Mamman Daura. He is Mr Buhari’s nephew and has been a close associate of the president. He holds no official position in the government but is widely believed to wield huge influence over the government.

He was even given an apartment – the Glass House – in the presidential villa that was the scene of the outburst in the video.

According to Mrs Buhari: “They shot the video in front of my security and everybody there. She [Fatima Daura] was actually recording the whole thing right in front of me and was laughing and mocking me.

“They did that because my husband sacked them from the house. He told them to get all their belongings and leave the house for my son [Yusuf] to occupy.

Nigeria’s presidency is yet to say anything about the video but on Wednesday, Mrs Buhari later posted an apology on Instagram, saying: “I use the opportunity to apologise for the embarrassment I might have caused my children, my immediate family members, well meaning Nigerians and the institution I represent, on the circulated leaked video clip”.

Aisha Buhari didn’t say who was planning the marriage, but it is clear she knows who it was. Some people are speculating that her willingness to confirm the authenticity of a video from 2018, in which she mentioned Mamman Daura and his daughter Fatima, was another cryptic message.

Ms Daura denies that a wedding was being planned, telling BBC Hausa that both her father and the president are “monogamists”. She also said that “the kind of power and influence that is being ascribed to my father is only attributable to God”.

So is a wedding still on the cards?

That would depend on if it was ever on the cards in the first place.

If people were planning it, they might not have altogether abandoned those plans.

If there’s anyone who would know the signs of a new marriage in the making, then it’s Mrs Buhari. She married the president after he divorced his first wife in 1988. The president is known as a monogamist but as a Muslim, he is allowed to take up to four wives.

Mrs Buhari was clearly referring to Ms Farouq as the intended bride in the BBC Hausa interview and the fact that neither the minister or the president have said anything about the rumoured marriage has many wondering if, like a true Nollywood soap, this story might have a sequel.

-Courtesy BBC News

** Beg Buhari To Replace Dokubo  

** Describe  His Appointment As Huge  Mistake 

** Say He Has Overstayed His Welcome 

The  Conveners of the Ijaw Unity  Rally  And  Peace (IURP ) have warned the  Special Adviser to the President and Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme  (PAP ), Prof  Charles Dokubo against threatening the  Federal Government with renewed wave of violence in the oil-rich Delta Delta Region if was not reappointed. 

The Coordinator of IURP, Habi  Kurokeme in a statement on Sunday, October 20, 2019 said that the prevailing peace in the Niger Delta Region must be sustained by all stakeholders and urged the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme to call his “loyalists” to order or he will be held responsible for attacks on oil facilities in the Niger Delta Region. 

According to the statement;   ” Our  attention has been drawn to the showboating of one man, who is feeding off the palms of the current Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Office and masquerades as ‘The Reformed Niger Delta Avengers (RNDA)’, recently quoted by the online version of Vanguard newspaper as saying that he “will cripple the nation’s economy with coordinated attacks on oil facilities in the Niger Delta should the Presidency succumb to the sponsored maneuvering and blackmail by purported cabals to remove the Special Adviser to the President and Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, Prof Charles Dokubo.”

“On the contrary, it is the belief of all the Niger Delta ex-agitators enlisted in the Presidential Amnesty Programme that Professor Charles Quaker   Dokubo has long overstayed his welcome as the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.   Prof  Dokubo is the singular biggest threat to peace, safety and security in the Niger Delta. In fact, the rising cases of oil theft in the Niger Delta, at a time our leader, President Muhammadu Buhari is looking for money to fund the federal budget, is glaringly as a result of the crass ineptitude of Prof. Charles Quaker Dokubo. That Dokubo still parades himself as the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme in spite of the monumental cases of corruption that has been linked to him and his cohorts, is one of the wonders of this era”, they wrote. 

They also wrote;  “We must send direct message to Prof. Charles Dokubo to stop threatening  President Muhammadu Buhari and indeed the nation with renewed wave of militancy in the Niger Delta. The youths and freedom fighters in the Niger Delta have since renounced violence and will never return to that sad era irrespective of the provocations of Prof. Charles Dokubo and his hirelings like the so-called “Major General Johnmark Ezonbi.” By 2016 virtually all the 30,000 ex-agitators enlisted in the Programme had received either vocational training or formal education in some of the best training facilities across the world. What was left was the reintegration of already trained persons. Looking at his performance since resumption,  Professor Charles Quaker Dokubo  is clearly the worst head of the Presidential Amnesty Programme since its inception”.

“Only recently, the nation was shocked when news made the rounds about how Professor Dokubo procured 100 wooden boats at the cost of N4 Million each purportedly to “empower” Niger Delta women. When challenged that each of those wooden boats could be procured at less than N200,000 each, Dokubo countered that they also threw in fishing nets and hooks into each of the boats! He never disputed the fact that N4 Million was spent on each of the miserable wooden boats”, the statement added.

According to the statement also; “Professor Prof. Charles Dokubo does not have an understanding of the Presidential Amnesty Programme. Worst still, he does not even  have the capacity to run the Programme. His appointment was a huge mistake in the first place. Under Dokubo, the amnesty Programme lacks focus – totally directionless. He just sits down everyday and award senseless contracts to cronies who usually would not do the job but rather return huge chunks of the money back to him  once they got paid by the office. The former Director of Finance and Accounts, who attempted to check this vice was chased out of the office by the him  and his colluding friends in government”.

Continuing further, they said;  “Given his lack of understanding of the Programme, Prof. Dokubo has now been literally held hostage by persons who see the Amnesty Office as a means of making money   at the  expense of the people.  The situation is so bad that the Coordinator has now totally lost control of the Office. Senior Civil Servants in the office, conniving with some contractors have taken over power from Prof  Dokubo and are now perpetrating colossal and brazen corruption. No wonder he has been visiting EFCC office almost on weekly basis. Very soon, details of his EFCC travail will be released to the general public especially the Benin furniture company issue”.

“Despite calls for proper investigation of the massive looting in Kaima orchestrated by him  and his criminal civil servants (procurement, admin and legal directors), supply of materials have continued unabated howbeit delivery is now to Buzi office in Abuja and this is another plot to syphon another N1,000,000,000 (One Billion Naira ) to lobby  government officials in the presidency for him to remain in office where he  has only cleverly looted billions of naira and caused much harm to stakeholders in the region”, they alleged.

“Given that Professor Dokubo did not take his time to understand the programme, including the mandate, he has been unable to manage the programme’s stakeholders. Owing to these failings of Prof   Dokubo, huge oil theft has continued in the Niger Delta, hurting the nation’s  economy. It is the collective wish of all of us enlisted in the Presidential Amnesty Programme for His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari to immediately replace Dokubo with someone with a perfect understanding of the Amnesty Programme. Someone who would return the Programme to its original ideal”, they stated. 

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Albert OGRAKA:

The Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), has called on the three tiers of government to adopt and implement the World Health Organization (WHO), 2015, recommendation on health promotion interventions for maternal and newborn health.

The recommendation advocated among others for male friendly health systems; but access to quality care for women and newborns must not be contingent on men’s attendance or involvement.

Addressing newsmen Monday, on the outcome of 21st Biennial Conference and General Assembly of MWAN issued through a communique, the National President, Dr. Minnie Oseji, said both the federal, state and local governments should expand immunization service beyond infancy.

She stressed that all women of child bearing age irrespective of pregnancy status should be immunized against tetanus.

“MWAN calls on the federal, state and local governments to domesticate the laws against harmful widowhood practices in addition to strengthening implementation of these laws nationwide.

“MWAN would partner with relevant agencies and groups to provide support to widows on the receiving end of such harmful practices”, directing each MWAN state to carry out activities for widows in their respective states by the end of the year 2019.

According to her, the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria would increase awareness of the importance of carrying out clinical trials, recruit and train personnel in all field of medicine, in partnership with other organizations and professional associations.

The communique condemn in it’s entirety all acts of violence against women and called for aggressive public enlightenment and enforcement of laws regarding intimate partner violence.

“MWAN will partner with the judiciary to strengthen the family courts in a bid to reduce intimate partner violence”, advocating for crowd funding as an innovative and sustainable method of pooling funds for research and health projects, pointing out that it would go a long way in improving care and treatment for cancer.

“MWAN advocates that screening for cancer should not be opportunistic but mandatory and health system deterrents to uptake of HPV and cervical cancer screening should be eliminated.

“Health personnel should be trained and cancer screening centres should be equipped and made accessible and affordable to women who need the service.

“Vaccination against HPV should be incorporated in the national programme of immunization schedule”, adding that universal rather than risk-based screening for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) to reduce the morbidity and mortality from GDM.

MWAN commended stakeholders who made the event worthwhile.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) -By Albert OGRAKA:

The Historical Society of Nigeria (HSN), established in 1955 to promote an enduring sense of history and historical consciousness amongst the citizenry has expressed its determination to employ digital technology in teaching Nigerian history after 30 years it was expunged from school syllabuses.

This move is coming on the heels of the federal government resolve to reintroduce history subject to the school curriculum since 1986. The Historical Society of Nigeria (HSN), said the body is partnering with the National Assembly (NASS), for a law to back the compulsory teaching of the subject in schools.

The society made the call on Friday, October 4, 2019, at a press briefing, ahead of its 64th conference in Asaba, Delta State capital from Sunday, October 6, 2019 to Wednesday, October 9, 2019, with the theme “Building the Nigerian Nation Since 1914: Motion, Movement and Actors.”

President of the Organization, Prof. Okpeh O. Okpeh (Jnr), insisted that the Society’s aim to vigorously promote, support, strengthen and uphold the study of Nigerian History and historical scholarship is for national integration.

Prof. Okpeh, who was flanked by the Vice President of the association, Prof. Sam Aghalino, who doubles as the chairman of the planning committee and the Assistant Secretary of HSN, Dr. Dave Imbua, said “We want to employ different technologies to reduce history to cartoon network where our children will easily catch up. We are working with experts to deliver history to our children, calling for training for history teachers, “the history we teach, is history for nation building.”

He said the conference would help create more awareness on the essence of history as the syllabus has been cut down to a manageablelevel, adding that the conference would consider the call for restructuring among others which would be debated by nearly 400 professors .

“We are interested as an organization to throw our weights behind the debate. We hope that at the end of the the conference, a communique will come out to address the yearnings of Nigerians. The way the county is managed over the years, cannot continue.”

He lamented that for three decades History was removed from the curriculum of schools, thereby raising concern that a generation of Nigerians passed through the educational system without the knowledge of their own history.

Prof. Okpeh said the Asaba conference of HSN was important because it is the first time the society will hold its conference outside the ivory tower, pointing out that the decision was well placed.

“Our people need to know how Nigeria came about. You want to look at the issues affecting this nation without putting into the picture the body that has in its custody the history of Nigeria. We are trying to get the National Assembly to make a law returning History to the schools. Everybody needs a deep sense of history in order to understand how we came to be, and where we are,” Prof. Okpeh said.

Contributing, the HSN Vice President, Prof. Sam Aghalino, hinted that the group was holding its conference outside the university system because it decided that it was time it stopped talking to itself, but to reach out to engage the public and tell them about the past. “We need the media to help in this campaign because a nation without history is a rudderless ship,” Aghalino said.

Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)

Team PPA, the umbrella body of Hon Evang Princess Ajudua, Ph.D, supporters, has read the malicious story making rounds on the net about a puported media aide to Hon Ajudua being sacked because he/she published the pictures of dilapidated building in Ibusa Girls Grammar school.

Out of curiosity, the team became a little bit agitated on why such should action attract a stringent punishment but to our chagrin, that report was as hoax and malicious as it’s simply vacuous.

Our principal Hon Ajudua, is a consummate politician, and a strong believer in rule of law and freedom of speech and expression thus will never smother or suppress any desenting view on any issue. As a law maker with more than twelves years experience, she understands the repercussions. She also being a fanatical Ibusa elite will always see any view to bring development to Ibusa in particular and Oshimili North in general as pluses to the enormous developmental projects she has done in both personal and official capacities.

She has been a source of succour to almost all schools in Oshimili North which Ibusa is not an exception. Currently, Ibusa Girls Grammar school infrastructural needs are receiving positive touches through her office. Therefore what worried her was the sole aim the so- called publication intended to achieve. She is aware that a lot of scammers have approached uninformed Ibusa elites especially those in diaspora for certain developments which usually ends in private pockets. She hopes this is not one of them.

Finally she confirmed that she has no official aide for the moment. She does not disengage aides. As the tenure ended, the House of Assembly disengaged all aides attached to law makers. As the new tenure resumed new aides have not been appointed as such she has no media aide or any other aide at that, hence it becomes highly undignified for anyone to claim being sacked for a publication. She posited that should such a person exist, he or she should come out and speak.

In conclusion, she is of the belief that journalism and governance should be partners in progress and as such welcomes constructive criticisms to issues and not witch hunting.

Dr. Olisemeka Isiekwe

For: Team PPA.

Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)– From Mike Sogola:

Borno Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum has approved the release of one million naira each to 26 citizens of the state undertaking different Degree programs at the Islamic University of Madinah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The University is known to offer undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes on courses not only on Islam but also on sciences and engineering.

The Governor’s approval was one-off education subsidy meant to support the students who are not under the scholarship of Borno government.

The Governor announced the support after a delegation of the students met him in Madinah on Tuesday, while the he was on two days transit before he moved to Makkah the following day to perform the lesser hajj, Umrah.

Zulum, a Professor of Irrigation Agriculture, urged the students to be dedicated to their studies hoping that the subsidy he approved, should make them aim high grades ahead of their graduation. The support was for students of different levels, including those in final years, who would require financing some aspects of their dissertations.

The Governor also gave assurance of automatic employment to those who excel noting that with the government’s ongoing plans to increase the number of higher (integrated) Islamic schools, opportunities will be there for majority of the students. The higher Islamic school, long established in Borno state, provides opportunities for Islamic scholars who meet certain standards and pass foundation courses, to enroll for western education at post secondary levels.

Zulum’s subsidy was received with high gratitude by the students on whose behalf, Manzo Adam Mohammed, assured of their readiness to make the Governor proud. Their meeting, he said, was first of its kind.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Michael EKOKORUWE:

The chairman of Isoko South local government area and chairman Association of local government of Nigeria (ALGON) Delta State, Sir Itiako Constantine Ikpokpo, has assured the people of Isoko South of sustaining government cordial relationship towards making government nearer to the people and to ensure commensurate dividends of democracy.

Sir Ikpokpo made the statement at Oleh stadium, Isoko South local government area during Nigeria’s 59th Independence Day celebration. He noted that his government will not disappoint the people, saying “I will not disappoint you people at ensuring that government policies are adequately implemented towards the development of the area”.

The local government boss urged students and pupils to rehearse the states anthem and sing along the National anthem which according to him is necessary towards sustaining education values in schools and building good legacies for this generation.

Ikpokpo took the salute even as students and primary pupils of public and private schools displayed the match pass parade. Others on natch pass parade were councilors of Isoko South legislative arm, youth coppers, women group and hon Kenneth Ogba’s support group.

Cultural dances and coral songs were presented by students and pupils from various schools to entertain over three thousand spectators at the stadium. The highlight of the event was teachers 100 meters raze, chairman’s dance by the students and pupils which culminated to the presentation of souvenirs to winners during the contest.

In attendance was hon. Kenneth Ogba, member Delta State House of Assembly representing Isoko South constituency 1, Sir Matthias Eto, former commissioner public complaints commission Delta State, traditional rulers, Mr Okpuyovwi Jonathan, chief inspector of education Isoko South and Mr. Sammy Edegbo, secretary local government education authority.

Others are Oleh Division Police Officer (D.P.O) CSP Mohammed Nahal, Councilors of Isoko South legislative arm, Heads of secondary and primary public schools, Heads of private schools, Mr. Odorewu Raphael, P.D.P. chairman Isoko South, women groups and a cross section of students and pupils from various schools among others in Isoko South local government area.

>>As O5 Initiative Partners Int’l Organizations On Management Of Sickle Cell Scourge

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

Wife of Delta State Governor and Founder of O5 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, on Wednesday, said the Initiative would partner individuals and organizations in the management and treating of sickle cell to minimize its impact in families and society.

She however debunked media reports that some financial commitment had been made by an international organization to her Initiative, saying “I want to state categorically that no memorandum of understanding has been signed and no financial commitment has been made’’.

Dame Okowa made this known at a news briefing in Asaba, on the activities of O5 Initiative, especially its presentation at the recent United Nations General Assembly in New York.

She said that the Initiative had established 12 sickle cell clinics in public hospitals across the state and equipped them with modern facilities and genetic counsellors and medical doctors.

She disclosed that at the UN event, O5 Initiative’s “modest efforts’’ in tackling the sickle cell in the state caught the interest of some organizations and individuals who expressed intention to do same in their countries.

“A major outcome of our UN presentation is the expressed desire of Initiative for Global Development, a Non-Governmental Organisation, to partner O5 Initiative.

“Their interest is centred on digitising our sickle cell clinics across the state. This will generate critical data in the management of sickle cell patients” Okowa said.

She listed some achievements of the Initiative as provision of welfare packages to prison inmates, empowerment of no fewer than 2,500 Delta women, medical outreach to over 26,000 Deltans, settlement of hospital bills for indigent citizens, provision of shelter for the homeless and feeding the poor.

Mrs Okowa who was flanked by the Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu and Director-General, O5 Initiative Mrs Kevwe Agas, commended various public and private individuals and organisations for their support to her project.

She called for more collaboration between her group and agencies and organisations to improve the lots of the less-privileged in the society.

PRESS CONFERENCE BY HER EXCELLENCY DAME EDITH OKOWA WIFE OF THE GOVERNOR AND FOUNDER O5 INITIATIVE ON WEDNESDAY 2ND OCTOBER, 2019 AT 10.00AM.

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to this press conference.

I thank you gentle men of the press for your support in the last four years; your reportage has given O5 Initiative national and global recognition. Thank you for amplifying our voice, we do not make light your contributions in ensuring that we get the best.

Recently, the O5 Initiative hosted a side event at the 74th United Nations General Assembly in New York where our efforts were appreciated. It featured an overview of O5 Initiative with a focus on sickle cell disorder, the forgotten and the neglected; any hope for the children?

During the event, the Initiative for Global Development a US based NGO announced a donation of 10million dollars (3.5million naira) for the digitalization of our sickle cell clinics. However, there is a misinterpretation by some media organizations that we have received a grant to fight sickle cell, I want to categorically say that there is no Memorandum of Understanding to that effect.

A number of individuals and corporate organizations have expressed satisfaction with the work of the O5 Initiative as our activities are based on the command of our Lord Jesus Christ as recorded in Matthew 25:35-36 to feed the hungry, Care for the sick, Provide Shelter for the homeless, clothe the naked and visit the prisoner.

At this juncture, I want to thank all who have in one way or the other identified with us; we are encouraged by your kind words and financial support.

We intend to step up our activities in the years ahead to reach out to the needy and add value to more lives; we enjoin everyone especially the media to come along with us as we change our world one person at a time.

Thank you.

Dame Edith Okowa
Wife of the Governor
Founder O5 Initiative

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Prosper EDO:

The Managing Director/CEO of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) Bashorun Askia Ogieh FCNA, CrFA) has joined millions of Nigerians home and abroad to celebrate its 59th Independence Anniversary.

Speaking to Newsmen in DESOPADEC Headquarters, Warri, Askia stressed the need for us to believe in the Nigeria Project and enjoined all to work for the Peace, Progress and Unity of One indivisible Nigeria.

He admonishes the indelible achievements of the Gov. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa led administration in keeping to his promises of Prosperity to All Deltans which has culminated to a Stronger Delta Agenda that is yielding positive results and asked Deltans from all walks of life to support and pray for the Okowa administration.

The UDU of Isoko Nation, as newly conferred on him by the entire Isoko Traditional Council, ascribed the successes recorded so far by DESOPADEC to the love Gov. Okowa has for the Oil bearing Communities and promised to deliver more meaningful projects as the Commission collates the essential needs of Oil Producing Communities arising from the Town Hall Meetings of the mandate areas.

In his final words, ” I want to specially wish Nigerians home and abroad, Deltans, Board/Management, Staff and the entire People of the Oil bearing Communities all over Delta State a Happy Independence Celebration “.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) – By Albert OGRAKA:

The Managing Director/CEO of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) Bashorun Askia Ogieh (FCNA,CrFA) has said the essence of the ongoing town hall/stakeholders meeting with oil bearing host communities, is in line with Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s directive that the Commission formulates a way to get inputs from the people in its budget planning.

Bashorun Askia made the disclosure during the town hall/stakeholders meeting between DESOPADEÇ and the Ndokwa ethnic nationality on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 in Kwale, Ndokwa West local government area.

He said the Commission has set a paradigm shift from the way it used to be in the past. “We feel it is better for a bottom to top approach for us to hear from the people”, adding that the “absence of similar approach in the past gave room for vandalization of projects by miscreants because people saw them as DESOPADEC projects since their inputs were not included and such projects may not have been what the people actually wanted.”

The MD/CEO therefore encouraged the people to always take interest in the monitoring and supervision of projects being executed within their communities, saying that such concerns helps in safeguarding the projects from vandalism and also check the excesses of the contractors.

He emphasized that projects are executed within the limit of the budget based on the production quantum of the various oil producing ethnic nationalities in Delta state.

While calling on the central union of the Ndokwa ethnic nationality, comprising of Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West and Ukwuani local government areas respectively, to collate and prioritize the needs of the communities, Bashorun Askia assured that the outcome of the deliberations would be adequately addressed by the Commission.

Earlier, Hon. Leonard Anoka, Executive Director of Social Services Development had assured the people that all ongoing projects embarked upon by DESOPADEC would be completed , adding that the Bashorun Askia Ogieh leadership as MD/CEO will usher in a new phase of development and achievement to the communities.

Rt. Hon. Dr. Olisa Imegwu, former member of the Federal House of Representatives and Speaker of Delta state House of Assembly, who spoke on behalf of his people, appealed for the completion of key projects, fair distribution of projects and the need to update the present production quantum which has been operational since 2008.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

The sole sponsor of Ebu Unity Cup 2019/2020, Mr. Ken Ekitu Agboma, has pledge his commitment to the continued empowerment of youths and the less privileged persons in Oshimili Oshimili North local government area of Delta state.

The United States (USA) based philanthropist, who hails from Ekpechor, Ebu has contributed enormously towards uniting all Ebu sons and daughters at home and in the Diaspora, through numerous youth engagement, assisting widows in the community irrespective of tribe, as well as contributing to the community development fund.

Meanwhile, youths of Ebu in Oshimili North local government area of Delta state have tipped Mr. Ken Ekitu Agboma to contest for Delta State House of Assembly in 2023, as a result of his immense contribution to the growth of parts of Oshimili North, especially in the areas of human capital development, which is the anchor point of the Stronger Delta agenda of the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa administration.

Through the Ebu Unity Cup 2019 football competition maiden edition, billed to commence in December, Mr. Ken Ekitu Agboma expressed his determination and interest in uniting all Ebu people through football fiestas and other wealth yielding schemes for self sustainability.

According to Mr Achebo Telojor Henry (Odogwu Anioma), the Organising committee of Ebu Unity Cup (EUC) include Mr Victor Agboma as Chairman, while Hon. Kema Egenu (Councilor Ebu Ward 2)/ Coordinator KEASO Oshimili North,.Mr Ucheojor Nwani, Mr Kenneth Omani, Mr. Edward Ebodiwe, Mr. Tunishi Etibokwu, Mr Achebo Telojor Henry are members.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)

IMMEDIATE past Executive Director, Projects of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Engr. Dr. Samuel Adjogbe, FNSE has described as false and malicious reports in an online medium that he was invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC over N60 billion emergency contracts allegedly awarded under four months.

Adjogbe, in a statement by his Media Assistant, Ogheneovo Itefue, said the report was “a product of fiction, crafted for political purposes and runs contrary to every ethic of journalism.

“One would expect that in matters of this magnitude, they would have made credible efforts to investigate such a report before going ahead to publish same. 

“To set the records straight, the former Executive Director, Projects, EDP of the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC, Engr Dr Samuel Adjogbe, FNSE was never invited by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, or any other anti-graft agency, since his exit from the interventionist agency on 27 August, 2019, which he served meritoriously on two terms.

“While we are aware that the EFCC or any other anti-graft agency does not invite persons by proxy or through online media, it must be stated that even where an invitation is made, it does not by any stretch of imagination translate into a crime worthy of passing online media judgment.

“Therefore, irrespective of whatever agenda is at play here, this appears to be part of an obvious smear campaign being launched against the person of Adjogbe.

“The sterling records of Adjogbe are there for all to see and he remains committed to contributing his quota to government, with eyes firmly fixed on the next level agenda of His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, to develop the Niger Delta, a region of which he is proud to belong.

“He remains steadfast in his selfless service to the good people of the Niger Delta region and the nation at large.”

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) -Albert OGRAKA:

The Managing Director/CEO of e Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Bashorun Askia Ogieh (FCNA,CrFA), has hailed the victory of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa at the Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal.

The Tribunal on Friday, September 20, 2019 declared Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa winner of the March 9, 2019 Delta State governorship election.

According to a statement, Bashorun Askia said that the judgement of the Tribunal was a testimony to the fact that the people of Delta State want Governor Okowa to sustain the development trend in the state.

He said that the victory was assured because Senator Ifeanyi Okowa won convincingly at the last gubernatorial poll, following the large turnout of Deltans who expressed their satisfaction with his governance with their ballots.

While describing the Tribunal ruling as fair and transparent, the DESOPADEC MD/CEO, appealed to Deltans to give their overwhelming support to the Governor and endorse his policies and programmes towards achieving a Stronger Delta.

The UDU of Isoko Nation Bashorun Askia Ogieh joined His Excellency the Governor of Delta State Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa at the Government House Chapel in Thanksgiving to God on the Governor’s Victory at the Election Tribunal today Friday 20th September, 2019.