The World Bank will support Nigeria with $611 million dollars to get children back to school under the Better Education Service Delivery for All (BESDA) programme, the Coordinator, Prof. Gidado Tahir, has said.

Tahir made this known in Kaduna on Friday at a meeting with officials of Kaduna State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), on modalities for the implementation of the programme.

The BESDA national coordinator explained that the project is being supported by the World Bank to tackle the problem of out-of-school children in the country.

According to him, the alarming rate of out-of-school children has remained a worrisome phenomenon in the country that must be addressed.

“Whenever you attend international conferences and conventions, Nigeria is being described as one of the top nations with huge number of out-of-school children.

“The Federal Ministry of Education therefore decided to make the issue one of its top priority areas to find a way of tackling the issue.

“This attracted the World Bank who accepted to provide the Nigerian Government with $611 million dollars to implement BESDA in line with Universal Basic Education Commission programme.

“UBEC is focusing on increasing access, quality and ensuring equity; BESDA is also tailoring its attention towards doing that, but specifically focusing more on out-of-school children,” Tahir said.

He explained that BESDA would essentially focus on increasing access for out-of-school children and ensuring that children who attend school could read, write and manipulate figures.

The coordinator added that another basic objective of the programme was to strengthen accountability in the school system which has been very week over the years.

He said that 17 states with the highest number of out-of-school children in the country would participate in the programme.

The states include Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, Yobe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara, Niger, Ebonyi, Rivers, and Oyo.

According to Tahir, the states have more than 30 per cent of their school-age children out of school.

Also speaking, Malam Iro Umar of UBEC Coordination Support Team, explained that the meeting was organised for Kaduna SUBEB as implementing partner to understand the processes involved in the implementation of the programme.

“We are here to share with you the processes involved so that we will all understand what needs to be done before implementation of the programme begins.

“At the end of the meeting, every participating agency and individual would know what BESDA is and what their responsibilities are in the course of the implementation of the programme, “he added.

Umar said that out of the $611 million dollars, $578 million would be expended on Programme for Result (P for R) and $33 million on Technical Assistance (TA).

He explained that under the P for R, states would be rewarded for result achieved within a given period based on the number of out-of-school children they were able to return or enrol in school by gender.

On the technical assistance component, Umar said that $33 million dollars would be spent on various activities to strengthen the capacity of Federal and State government officials to improve monitoring and evaluation as well as data evaluation.

“The component will also increase effectiveness and transparency in UBE programme management and strengthen intergovernmental coordination in areas of policy formulation, strategic planning and monitoring of UBE programme implementation.

“Design and implementation of national learning assessment and a research agenda to inform UBE programme implementation and provide the analytical underpinning for future initiatives focused on out-of-school children.

“This would greatly improve the quality of basic education, “he added.

Earlier, Nasiru Umar, Executive Chairman, Kaduna SUBEB, thanked the Federal Government and UBEC for including Kaduna State as a participating state in the programme.

According to him, the programme will go a long way in helping the state to get over 700,000 out-of-school children back to school.

(NAN)

There are a lot of actors who could play 007 once Daniel Craig retires from the role he despises: Tom Hardy, Michael Fassbender (even though he’s Irish), Tom Hiddleston (of Hiddleswift fame), David Oyelowo (who actually voices the character in the audiobooks). Hell, even controversially-mustached human man Henry Cavill thinks he has what it takes.

But there’s only one actor who should be the next James Bond, and that’s Idris Elba.

There’s been some back and forth on the subject of Elba as Bond. It began back in 2014, when emails released during the massive Sony hack revealed that then-studio co-chair Amy Pascal told a colleague, “Idris should be the next Bond.” And for the last few years, Elba has very strictly maintained that he is NOT going to play James Bond. In fact, he thinks the next Bond should be a woman (might we suggest Thandie Newton or Naomie Harris?).

Now, new reports indicate that James Bond producers are starting to lean toward the idea of Elba taking the role. As the Independent reports:

Director Antoine Fuqua revealed the details of a conversation with Bond producer Barbara Broccoli, in which she said “it is time” for a non-white actor to take on the iconic role. Fuqua discussed who might be next in the running with Broccoli, who’s certain the progressive move “will happen eventually”, with Idris Elba a reported frontrunner for the role.

It’s not much, but it’s a good sign that Bond producers are at least leaning in the right direction. (Esquire has reached out to the producers for comment and will post an update if we hear back.) What’s interesting though, is that when it comes to the topic of Bond, Elba’s response is often that no one is really considering him for the role.This certainly changes things.

Nothing but respect for my James Bond.

Should Idris Elba be the next James Bond?

-By Ashibuogwu Olisakwue:

With the Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa resolving to be totally neutral and allow delegates of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to freely decide who they desired as their candidates for the approaching elections, the contest in the state, particularly his home district, Delta North promises to be keen.

Two PDP gladiators, the incumbent, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi from Oshimili North Local Government Area and a former member of the House of Representatives, Prince Ned Nwoko from Aniocha North Local Government Area are locked in a crunchy battle over the party’s ticket for the Senatorial District ahead of the 2019 National Assembly election.

There are striking differences between the two aspirants. While Ned Nwoko is a self-made political leader who is used to cracking his own coconut by himself, his chief opponent, Nwaoboshi had in most of his political battles since 1999 depended on the anointing and support of officialdom to compete. However, the scenario is fast changing for him in the current dispensation as Governor Okowa has sworn to be unabashedly neutral and detached by refraining from endorsing any aspirant.

Even some powerful forces in the state that Nwaoboshi had in the past flaunted as his godfathers and kingmakers such as former Governor James Ibori have joined Okowa’s principled stance that there should be a level playing field for all. Okowa and Ibori are definitely aware that foisting unpopular candidates on the people could backfire and result in PDP losing not only the senatorial but also the governorship election next year.

It is for this reason that the two powerful contenders for the Delta North Senatorial election and their foot soldiers have swooped on the nine constituent local government areas of Delta North to sway the party delegates to their respective sides.

An independent exit poll survey carried out by Image online newspaper (www.image.org.ng) gave a fore knowledge of how the nine LGAs that constitute the district may vote at the PDP senatorial primary as most of the delegates have taken their considered positions.

The survey further reveals that as the September 18 D-Day for the senatorial primary contest draws nearer, Senator Nwaoboshi is increasingly finding himself on unsteady legs to face his major opponent, Prince Ned Nwoko whose political rating in the district has been surging like hurricane. The survey by www.image.org.ng shows that Ned Nwoko is clearly ahead of Nwaoboshi in at least seven out of the nine local government areas that make up Delta North district.

The survey upheld Ned Nwoko as the clear favorite to emerge the PDP senatorial candidate and go all the way to win the election proper. The survey revealed these statistics:

ANIOCHA NORTH: Nwoko 90% – Nwaoboshi 10%

This local government area with its headquarters in Issele-Ukwu is the home base of Prince Ned Nwoko and he is sure to carry the day with as high as 90% margin. His hometown, Idumuje-Ugboko is located in this local government area. Ostensibly due to his strong moral character, philanthropic gestures including massive scholarship awards and empowerment. Ned Nwoko is adored throughout the area as a shinning example of a selfless , responsible and caring leader.

ANIOCHA SOUTH: Nwoko 60% – Nwaoboshi 40%

By extension, this is another home base of Ned Nwoko considering the usual solidarity between the two sister local governments. The fact that Hon Paschal Adigwe, one of Directors of Nwaoboshi’s campaign organization hails from this local government is expected to reduce the margin of victory for Ned Nwoko.

This constituency presents a peculiar scenario. While a good number of the party leaders including some local government executives here have pitched tent with Nwaoboshi, a vast majority of the councilors and ward delegates are staunch supporters of Ned Nwoko. He is expected to win this state constituency with 60 percent of the votes here.

IKA NORTHEAST: Nwoko 50% – Nwaoboshi 50%

This local government where Governor Okowa hails from is a veritable battleground zone for the two contenders. They are equally keeled here and both are expected to share the spoils of battle apiece by splitting the delegate votes 50 – 50.

IKA SOUTH: Nwoko 70% – Nwaoboshi 30%

In Ika South Constituency, Prince Ned Nwoko enjoys an upper hand with most of the voting bigwigs on his side. On the d-day no fewer than 70 percent of the delegates would queue behind Ned leaving 30 percent for Nwaoboshi and others to share.

Nwoko is projected to win here by as high as 70 percent.

NDOKWA EAST: Nwoko 75% – Nwaoboshi 25%

In this oil-rich but largely swampy local government area, Ned is sure to chalk up no fewer than 75 percent of the delegates’ votes while Nwaoboshi would make do with 30 percent . The people of this local government are unhappy with Senator Nwaoboshi for not doing anything to ameliorate their plight despite serving as the Chairman of the strategic Senate Committee on Niger Delta which supervises the NDDC. For instance, Abala-Uno and Abala-Obodo people are suspicious of him being complicit in the stalling of the 18km road project linking the two communities to the Warri-Asaba express road via Oloa-Ossissa junction. Also, Okpai indigenes are furious over his inaction concerning the problem of gas flaring at Okpai Gas Plant which has been on since 1965.

NDOKWA WEST: Nwoko 78% – Nwaoboshi 22%

As for Ndokwa West, Ned’s popularity among the leaders and delegates has been soaring. Here, he is projected to notch up as high as 78 percent leaving 22 percent for Nwaoboshi.

UKWUANI: Nwoko 85% – Nwaoboshi 15%

A similar scenario as in Ndokwa West and Ndokwa East will play out in Ukwuani Local Government Area, although the margin there is expected to be higher with Nwoko harvesting as much as 85 percent leaving a paltry 15 percent for Nwaoboshi. The Director General of Ned Nwoko Senatorial Campaign Organization, Hon Leo Esegbue and many other PDP stalwarts are from this local government area.

OSHIMILI NORTH: Nwoko 30% – Nwaoboshi 70%

If the primary election holds today, Nwaoboshi may garner as high as 70 percent in his native Oshimili North to Ned Nwoko’s 30 percent but that is about the only local government area where the incumbent is expected to run away with victory. This is the local government area where most of the NDDC projects awarded in the last three and half years of Nwaoboshi’s stay in the Senate are located. Also most of the beneficiaries of his okada empowerment scheme are youths from Oshimili North.

OSHIMILI SOUTH: Nwoko 55% – Nwaoboshi 45%

This highly metropolitan local government has its headquarters located in Asaba, the state capital. This is a battleground local government but Nwoko is projected by pundits to win most of the delegate votes marginally here. The ratio has been put at 55 – 45 in his favour.

Image News investigations revealed that generally, credibility, trust, perception and equity are critical factors that will influence the voting pattern of delegates. Money as usual may play some limited part as in other political climes but such role would not be overriding as the Delta North senatorial district is a place where high moral value prevails.

There is also the factor of equity and fairness in rotation of the senatorial seat among the four political blocs and cultural quadrants that make up the district. These are Oshimili, Ndokwa, Ika and Aniocha. Out of the four zones, only Aniocha bloc is yet to produce a senator from the onset in the First Republic to date.

In fact, Oshimili zone where the incumbent Senator Nwaoboshi hails from has produced four elected senators since the Second Republic. These were Senators Nosike Ikpo, Azinge, Nwajei and Nwaoboshi. Ndokwa produced a three-term senator in the person of Senate Patrick Osakwe while Ika axis has produced the current governor, Dr. Okowa as Senator between 2011 and 2015.

The survey equally showed that many influential political stakeholders including elders, youths, women and party stalwarts in the Delta North district are of the view that it is Aniocha’s turn to produce the next Senator for the district come 2019. This reasoning puts Prince Ned Nwoko in pole position of landing the PDP senatorial ticket next month.

September 18, 2018 will inexorably tell the rest between Nwoko and Nwaoboshi as to who emerges the PDP senatorial flagbearer but the prevailing variables favour Ned Nwoko.

The growing fear that the National Assembly may have deliberately reneged in passing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) N242 billion budget for the 2019 general election, have been put to rest.

The National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said there was hope that the 2019 election budget would be passed by the National Assembly next week, saying that the National Assembly may reconvene to consider the N242 billion budget for the 2019 general election.

The INEC boss made this known in Abuja on Wednesday shortly after a meeting with the leadership of the National Assembly.

The meeting was scheduled to hold earlier on Tuesday but for the siege laid to the National Assembly by the operatives of the State Security Service, SSS.

Yakubu who spoke with journalists said the National Assembly had expressed its commitment to ensuring an efficient general election.

“The most important thing to say is that INEC was invited to meet with NASS leadership on how the proposed budget for the 2019 elections can be speedily considered and appropriated by the National Assembly.

“We have been assured of speedy passage of the budget, perhaps as early as next week. N242 billion is the total amount proposed,” the INEC boss said.

Praising the leadership of the National Assembly for the meeting, Mahmood said it was confident that the plans for the coming general elections were on course.

According to him, the meeting had given assurance that the election would be supported with the needed fund.

Said he: “We have from today, exactly 191 days to the opening of polling units at 8 a.m. on Saturday the 16th of February, 2019.

“There are activities that we have to undertake for a minimum of six months to the election date.

“Six months to the election date kick starts from 15th of August, which means we have only eight days to the commencement of these activities.

“We are confident that with this meeting, all the grey areas will be ironed out and as we are concerned, our component of the cost of the election will be speedily appropriated by the National Assembly.

“This is the first time in the history of our election that the budget for the election will be subjected to approval by the National Assembly this way.

“We want to thank you for the reassurance that the commission will not be constrained in any way in the conduct of the election.”

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Delta State chapter, has commended the state governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, on the successful hosting of the 21st Confederation of African Athletics, CAA Senior Athletics Championship, 2018, in the capital city of Asaba, from August 1st – 5th 2018.

A statement issued by Dr. Ifeanyi Michael Osuoza, State Publicity Secretary, PDP, Delta State and made available to Blank NEWS Online on 06th August, 2018 reads:

“The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Delta State chapter, heartily congratulates our dynamic and visionary party leader, His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, the Executive Governor of Delta State (Ekwueme) on the successful hosting of the 21st Confederation of African Athletics, CAA Senior Athletics Championship, 2018, in the capital city of Asaba, from August 1st – 5th 2018.

”We note with satisfaction that since March 2017, when His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, presented our Letter of Acceptance to the visiting President of CAA, Hamad Kalkaba Malboum and his delegation in Government House, Asaba, indicating the willingness of Delta State to host the 2018 Confederation of African Athletics’ African Senior Athletics Championship, Ekwueme has answered his name not only by working with the Athletic Federation of Nigeria, also headed by our own indefatigable Chief Solomon Ogba, but indeed proceeded to deliver the brand new, state-of-the-art, Stephen Keshi Stadium, which hosted the championship and has, in its own right, become one of the major legacy infrastructure projects, amongst many others, in the first tenure of his administration.

“The Delta PDP is particularly proud of the fact that Delta State and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa played a heroic and patriotic role by rescuing Nigeria from the shame and embarrassment of failing to host the 2018 African Athletics Championships, which had been ceded to the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, after Lagos failed to concretize plans for hosting. Indeed, the President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria Shehu Gusau, captured it perfectly when he said, “I want to thank the Delta State government for putting this competition together and making sure that it succeeded despite the challenges faced. The Delta State government saved Nigeria after there was a mix up following the award of the rights to another State.”

“We are quite thrilled with the inspiring comments and praise showered on His Excellency, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa by the Confederation of Africa Athletics President, Hamad Kalkaba Malboum who equally confirmed that Delta State practically rescued the CAA from the dilemma of choosing who to host when it was obvious that Lagos State had developed cold feet after accepting to host in 2016. He said; “I asked Solomon Ogba who was AFN president then what is going to happen and he told us Delta was ready to host. We are indeed lucky to be here at Asaba 2018. The efforts of the Delta State government at hosting must be appreciated by all.”

“We most respectfully join our brothers and sisters in Nigeria and the African continent, to express our heartfelt appreciation to the IAAF President Lord Sebastian Coe, for describing our able and trust-worthy Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa as a visionary leader. He said; “IAAF is grateful to the host city, [Asaba] and the State for their support towards the championship. Sports need visionary leaders like Governor Okowa and we are grateful that the stadium is ready and will be utilised for so many other competitions for years to come.”

“Our profound gratitude also goes to the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), who deemed our Governor and leader Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, as worthy to be conferred with the prestigious NOC Merit Award, presented to him by the President of NOC, Engr. Habu Gumel, in recognition of his outstanding roles and contributions towards the development of sports in the country and we are even personally gratified to hear that the positive impact which Delta State has made in the hosting of the of the 21st Confederation of African Athletics Senior Athletics Championship in Asaba, has spurred the AFN President to declare boldly that Nigeria will be bidding to host the 2025 World Athletics Championships and motivated the IAAF President Lord Sebastien Coe to openly declare, after watching the excellent hosting of the CAA in Asaba, that Africa could host the competition in 2025 and the continent would be awarded the rights to host the world, when the bid comes.

“Of course, we undoubtedly recognize the nuisance value and pathetic belly-aching campaign of calumny by the opposition and some detractors who, in their usual garrulous manner, attempted to make a song and dance over an isolated incident that had no recognizable impact on the successful prosecution of the events and satisfactory conclusion of the championships. It is only to be expected that they would be lurking in the shadows like sinister hawks, waiting, praying and hoping for any kind of misfortune to happen, but they were sadly disappointed that all the elements, including the beautiful weather, worked together in unanimous consonance to make Asaba 2018 a resounding success.

“To the winners of the 21st African Athletics Confederation, CAA Senior Athletics Championship, we say a big congratulations and to all the other participating countries we say well done. Hosting 52 African nations in such a massive sporting extravaganza is no mean feat, especially as it concerns security, guest relations, hospitality, brand and human management and indeed the huge expectations it offers in terms of igniting some economic revival in its wake. But we did it successfully.

“We in Delta PDP are very impressed with the excitement and enthusiasm shown not only by the government under the able and dynamic leadership of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in the preparations, hosting and conclusion of this historic continental sports showpiece on the shores of our State and we are fully convinced that this monumental event will definitely serve as a veritable platform to build on other continental and global events in the future and further advance on the path of excellence, astute governance and more visionary engagements, which our ‘Ekwueme’ is quite capable of achieving.

“Most importantly, we express our overwhelming thanks to Deltans who once again exhibited their overflowing love for the PDP and their Governor, His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, by turning out enmasse to support, cheer and ultimately create a carnivalesque atmosphere of pomp, fanfare and celebration, which not only embraced our guests from the continent with our unrivalled warmth and hospitality but equally put Asaba, Delta State and Nigeria on the continental and global map in international reckoning.

“Africa came to Delta and Asaba was a fantastic host. Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has distinguished himself as a patriotic Nigerian by making it possible for Asaba to host the 21st Senior Athletics Championships successfully. Thank you Ekwueme. Your word is your bond and you have made Delta, Nigeria and Africa proud.”

By Andy Emephia:

The Delta State Chairman of Labour Party, Chief Tony Ezeagwu has advocated for part time status for State and National Assembly members, noting that such a move will nip desperation by politicians in the bud.

Chief Ezeagu also said that making such offices part time will in no small measure determine those who genuinely want to serve the people.

The Labour Party Chairman also condemned the high cost of governance which he said has led to desperation to seek elective office by politicians.

On the current gale of defections across the country, Chief Ezeagwu said it was a normal phenomenon that precedes elections and said it was mostly based on self interest.

On the recent MOU signed by the leadership of the party and other political parties to oust President Muhammadu Buhari and the APC at the national level come the 2019 presidential elections, Chief Ezeagwu said he was awaiting further information from the party hierarchy on details of the MOU.

–By Albert OGRAKA:

Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has ordered an investigation into the remote and immediate cause of the collapsed Water Tank behind the main bowl of the Stephen Keshi Stadium during the ongoing African Senior Athletics Championships holding in Asaba.

Blank NEWS Online checks revealed that a metal construction carrying the water tank collapsed, destroying some cars, a wing and section of the stadium fence while no life was lost.

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa received approval from the Delta State House of Assembly for a loan request of N1.9billion to complete the stadium scheduled for completion in December 2017 but has allegedly gulped up much more undisclosed funds and lagged on till August, 2018 when the competition started.

Alarmed by the incident which happened on Thursday, August 2, 2018, the second day of the African Senior Athletic Championship, many observers have blamed the collapse on the shoddy and hasty completion of the stadium, giving room for inadequate monitoring of construction materials to ascertain if they were substandard or not while others described it as a white elephant project.

A dependable source close to the engineering firm handling the project, who pleaded anonymity said the marching orders and ultimatum issued by the state governor, Ifeanyi Okowa may have contributed to the near shoddy completion, as he quoted the governor as saying:
“We are expecting that the stadium should be ready by the end of June. I have also advised the contractors on what they need to do; what I need to do is to ensure that I am more regular in the project inspection. They are working hard but I believe that they need to work faster than they are doing now because there is a lot more to be done,” he said. Okowa who also inspected the project at the Asaba Airport, said that the ongoing work on the runway would be completed by the end of the month. He said that as soon as the airport runway was completed, the airport could be re-opened to flight.

Many watchers have derided the state government and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for not adequately ensuring that everything is put in place before the commencement of the competition, explaining that during the opening ceremony, the Scoreboard had not been installed, making many people question how an Athletic meet could be held without a scoreboard. Others queried why an event of such magnitude is not broadcast live and non accreditation of most local journalists as is usually the case with internationally accredited sports meet.

The final construction work at the stadium was allegedly handled by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s younger brother and Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Tonobok Okowa, who was recently reportedly alleged to have assaulted the State Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Mr Festus Agas, while admonishing him for not handling matters pertaining to the hosting of the African Senior Athletic Championship expeditiously. But Tonobok Okowa has serially denied the allegations.

Reports have it that many of the athletes from other African countries could not attend the opening ceremony of African Senior Athletic Championship, because they were stranded at the airport in Lagos due to lack of flight to Asaba. The Asaba airport which is alleged to be another elephant project by members of the Ibori dynasty is not functional for the major airlines to ply the route as only small aircrafts are taking the chance to land at the airport.

Reacting to the unfortunate development, the funcional Permanent Secretary and Director of Information, Mr. Paul Osahor said: “There is no doubt as I learnt that there were some issues concerning airlifting people to Asaba and I need to make a comment on this because of the general view about it. I did ask last night at the award ceremony what went wrong but the information I got was that initially only 46 countries enlisted to participate in this game but in the last two days the number went from 46 to 52 and some countries actually arrived in Lagos before they even knew they were participating in the championship which of course brought up the situation because our airport’s runway is very good, it is one of the best in the country but due to major rehabilitation going on in the airport, we have limited aircrafts coming in but the chartered flights that were put down that was supposed to airlift all the athletes was such that it could not accommodate them all but the athletes that have been airlifted this morning with three aircrafts has arrived Asaba. The fault was not that of the local organizing committee, these challenges do occur and they have been well attended to.”

In a statement made available to Blank NEWS Online on Thursday, August 2, 2018 by Charles Aniagwu, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okowa,shortly after the collapse, he described the incident as regrettable but thanked God that no life was lost.

God Okowa who expressed concern over the collapse of the water tank behind the Stephen Keshi Stadium Asaba, thanked God that no life was lost to the incident.

The Governor has directed an immediate investigation into the cause of the collapse of the water tank with a view to unravel the circumstances surrounding the collapse.

He also emphasised that discilplinary actions will be taken against anyone culpable in the collapse of the water tank if it is discovered that someone failed to do the right thing abinitio.

The statement further assured that Government will take necessary steps to avert future occurrence.

He called on the Athletes and the very enthusiastic spectators to continue to savory the beauty if the competition which so far has recorded appreciable success.

-By Albert OGRAKA:

One good turn, they say, deserves another. Nineteen years after Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko, awarded scholarship to 30 indigent and non indigent citizens of Anioma from various tertiary institutions in Nigeria, little did he know that the good seeds he had sown on fertile soil would yield good fruits.

Prince Nwoko, a former member of the House of Representatives and Senatorial aspirant for Delta North, who has distinguished himself as a worthy son of Anioma in his sublime and great virtues of humility, meekness, kindness, accessibility, transparency and generosity, expressed appreciation for the honour,saying, he believes in good governance and transparency.

On Sunday, July 29, 2018, Bar. Anthony Uchechukwu Onwueme led a team of the scholarship beneficiaries to dumuje-Ugboko, Aniocha North local government area of Delta state, to present an award to Prince Ned Nwoko for the scholarships they benefited from him in 1999 when he was elected to the House of Representative in Aniocha-Oshimli Federal Constituency.

They vowed that because of Nwoko’s generosity, “We have put up a structure which is known as Anioma Movement For the Actualization of Ned Senatorial Mandate (AMfOANSEM) to work for the actualization of the senatorial ambition. We are going to mobilize voters and work effectively for your victory come 2019.

“Immediately Prince Ned Munir Nwoko as a worthy was sworn in as an  Honorable member, he swung into action by awarding scholarship to indigent and non indigent citizens of Anioma. I can recall we where up to 30 that were given scholarship from various tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

“Hon (Prince ) Ned M. Nwoko did not only give scholarship to students, he was also instrumental to then for the completion of Asaba – Benin Federal High way, the Paris London Club refund to Nigeria and numerous projects so much to mention here.

“It is of note to stress that the scholarship he gave to 30 indigent and non indigent citizens of Anioma was not only for one academic year but it was given to us throughout out study in various tertiary institutions.

“It is because of this your great virtues and what you did for us in our schooling days that we decided to confer on you today the title: Ochili Ozua 1 of Anioma Land. A title that befits your humilty and milk of kindness to poor and all Sundry.”

While responding, Prince Nwoko, who noted that youths must be given the right exposure to be able to appreciate the deficiencies in the various sectors of the economy, urged them to come together to make the political system work, by voting for the right people and making them accountable.

“You may never know what results come from your action. But if you do nothing, there will be no result.

“They have been collecting your money and giving you stipends and when you maintain silence they think you are foolish. No, you aren’t. Its because there is no voice to speak for you. And it is exactly that voice I represent. I want to speak out against whoever will fight against you. I want to go out there to speak against those who will collect job slots meant for our youths and give it out to their friends. I want to speak for you and more. But I can only speak when you give me the mandate. I can only be heard when you give me the voice, when you elect me as your Senator.”

Controversial Nigerian senator, Dino Melaye who recently decamped to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from the All Progressives Congress (APC)has reportedly been kidnapped.

Nigerians have however expressed mixed feelings following the alleged abduction of Senator Dino Melaye by unknown gunmen.

Senator Dino Melaye

Senator Dino Melaye representing Kogi West in the Senate has been abducted by unknown gunmen.

This was made public by his colleague in the senate, Senator Ben Bruce (Bayelsa East) on his Twitter page.

Sharing the news, Bruce wrote: “I have just been informed by Moses Melaye, @dino_melaye’s brother, that Dino has been abducted by unknown persons in a Toyota Sienna that blocked their car and overpowered them on their way to Kogi to answer to Dino’s court case. Lets be on the watch out. Will keep you updated.”

Prior to his abduction, Melaye was arraigned yesterday before an FCT High Court in Apo, Abuja on a six-count charge bordering on attempted suicide. He was also charged with the offences of attempt to escape from lawful custody and damage of police property.

Nigerians have taken to social media to react.

Recall that the news of Dino’s alleged abduction was made public by Senator Ben Bruce who shared a tweet saying, ’I have just been informed by Moses Melaye, Dino Melaye’s brother, that Dino has been abducted by unknown persons in a Toyota Sienna that blocked their car and overpowered them on their way to Kogi to answer to Dino’s court case. Lets be on the watch out. Will keep you updated.”

See how Nigerians reacted below:

@john_danfulani wrote: “That @dino_melaye has been adopted by armed men.Nigeria has become too insecure for dissidents & political opponents.Shame on Buhari & his men.”

@abbasiddiq wrote: “Dino Melaye gets abducted on his way to a Court case and buhari is getting blamed? Like ffs what does buhari have to gain by abducting him?”

@mizcarzolar1 wrote: “Who will rescue Dino Melaye?

 

“This man has been shouting that his life is in danger. The police ignored him,withdrew his security & APC herdsmen mocked him saying he faked his neckbrace. Did he also fake his own kidnap?!”

France has won the 2018 FIFA World Cup, defeating Croatia 4-2

Mario Mandzukic scored an own-goal to open scoring, with referee Nestor Pitana awarding a penalty to Les Blues after a confirmation from the the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) after 38 minutes. Antonio Griezmann converted the spot kick, sending goalkeeper Subasic the wrong way.

Paul Pogba scored the third on 59 minutes, before Kylian Mbappe found the net for France in the 65th minute

Ivan Perisic and Mario Mandzukic however got the goals for the Croatians in the 28th and 69th minute.

The final is a perfect summary of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in total, as included an own goal, a VAR decision and a penalty.

By Michael EKOKORUWE:

The president general of Isoko development union, high chief Iduh Amadhe, has expressed displeasure and decried the plight Isoko nation is going through over the excavated portion of Iyede / Ughelli road as the contractor is yet to complete the re- construction of the road project as promised.

Speaking to newsmen on the bad state of the road after accessing the present stage of work, Amadhe said, Oghara – Iyede, Ekiugbo – Iyede and Eboh – Iyede link and internal roads have all been destroyed due to heavy trucks plighting the road as the major Iyede/Ughelli road has been cut off.

He noted that, Isoko people are not happy at the state of the road even as he was informed of mass protests of all the villagers around Iyede axis due to the destruction of all the link and internal roads in the area by heavy traffic of vehicles.

The president general condemned the company failure to provide enough equipment, men and materials to complete the road project as economic life of the people have been destroyed and commuters groaning over the bad state of the road.

Amadhe called on the project director to invite the contractor for a meeting at Isoko Unity House to factor out immediate solution on the completion of the road project.

On his part, the project director, hon Onuoseke Sonny assured of completing the road before Sunday this week as more equipment and materials are on the way. He said, the volume of work ongoing is massive and the company will not fail Isoko people and the State government.

In another development, the president general of Isoko Development Union, High Chief Iduh Amadhe, has appealed to the director monitoring of project to CCC company hon. Onuoseke Sonny during a meeting at Isoko Unity house to inform the governor of Delta State Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa on the maintainance of the internal link roads within Iyede community that has been damaged by heavy trucks and other heavy duty vehicles plieghing constantly on the road.

He also appealed to all illustrious sons of Isoko and Urhobo both in government and private sector to rise up to the challenge of the impending danger the road posses to Isoko people even as the movement of people from Asaba axis, Portharcourt and Warri axis has become an embarrassment to the government and entire Isoko nation.

While responding, hon. Onuoseke said, the governor is aware of the state of the road as he passes the road often to Warri and other area of Delta Central. Onuoseke noted that the maintenance of the internal link roads will be fixed by the contractor of the project in collaboration with the ministry of works Delta State, stressing that the internal link roads were not original part of the re – construction of the road project.

He maintained that the paucity of funds contributed to the delay in early completion of the project, adding that slight management change and earth moving equipment maintenance in the cause of waiting for funds added to delay of completing the road as promised. Onuoseke assured that the completion of the road project is now a priority to the contractor and the staff of the company due to the suffering of commuters on the road.

By Michael EKOKORUWE:

Motion for the re – election of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa as governor of Delta State during the 2019 general election, has received mass support by Isoko youths during a mega rally organized by Isoko National Youth Council, tagged ‘Okowa Again’, held at Ellu Isoko North local government area of Delta State.

Moving the motion, comrade Fidelix Utomudo, president Isoko National Youth Council said, Isoko youth pass vote of confidence on Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa as governor of Delta State in the 2019 general election. Utomudo commended Okowa for Isoko unity house, roads, infrastructural development and empowerment of Isoko youths, emphasizing that Okowa has done much for Isoko people and deserves re – election to consolidate on the development of the area.

Comrade Innocent Eseweje, director general Delta State community youth association who seconded the motion, commended Okowa for employing the youths into various position of leadership throughout the State and assured Isoko youth of more employment opportunities in the months ahead.

The youths in their numbers from Isoko South and North endorsed the motion with a massive ovation. Dressed in colorful T – Shirts with inscription of ‘Isoko Youth Mega Rally for Okowa Again’ in 2019 from Oleh, Ozoro, Olomoro, Uzere, Irri, Iyede, Owhe, Ellu, Aviara and other communities from Isoko South and North, pledged their loyalty to Okowa administration and declared support for his re – election bid in 2019 election.

Speaking during the rally, Chief Victor Egbo, senior special assistance to Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa on youth and community development said, Okowa has kept to his promise of infrastructural development and has empowered the youths of Delta State just as the prosperity for all Deltan is dedicated to the youths and women of the State.

He noted that Okowa believes in the youths and appealed to them to get their permanent voters card and queue behind comrade Fidelix Utomudo and Comrade Agbama Paul, both president and vice president of Isoko National Youth Council and vote Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa again as governor of Delta State. Egbo commended Okowa for the construction of roads and bridges in the State and endorsed Okowa again during the 2019 election.

Also speaking, hon. Bino Owhebe, youth leader Peoples Democratic Party Delta State, thanked the president Isoko National Youth Council, comrade Fidelix Utomudo for the mega rally and appeal to the youths to remain committed and support the election of Okowa again in the 2019 election.

The special assistant to Okowa on youth mobilization Prince Lawrence Owhe, reiterated the support for Okowa again in the 2019 election, emphasizing that Okowa has commissioned many projects both infrastructural and human capital development. He maintained that Isoko youth will stand for Okowa during the 2019 election.

In attendance are comrade Agbama Paul, vice president and other executive members of Isoko national youth council, a cross section of the youth groups and their leaders from various communities of Isoko South and North local government area of Delta State.

–By Albert OGRAKA:

Delta state Commissioner for Special Duties, Government House, Hon. Henry Sakpra has said that the Delta State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) are working out modalities to ensure that buildings destroyed by rain storm in Emevor community in Isoko North Local Government Area are put in place.

Sakpra stated this when he briefed Journalists on the activities and achievements of his Office at the ongoing Ministerial press briefing in Asaba.

The Commissioner who stated that the destruction was highly devastated stated that government was working seriously through SEMA and NEMA to bring relief to the community.

Following the tragedy, which rendered several thousand people homeless, the community has been thrown into a state of despair, as over 200 houses had their roofs completely or partially torn off while economic trees, electricity poles and cables, some churches, government owned and private schools were not also spared.

Some structures at James Welsh Grammar School, Emevor were among property destroyed by the natural disaster, which began at about 8.25 pm on Wednesday, April 18, 2018 after a downpour.

President-General of Emevor Community, Engr. Moses Agboro had called on individuals and corporate bodies for support, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), as well as the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to come to the aid of the community and affected families.

The political differences between the Reformed All Progressives Congress (R-APC) and the APC took a different dimension on Thursday as the Alhaji Buba Galadima-led R-APC filed a suit seeking an order of perpetual injunction restraining Mr Adams Oshiomhole and 53 others from parading themselves as or claiming to be officers of APC.

The suit which was filed on Thursday at the Federal High Court, Abuja, also wants the defendants restrained from performing any duty as officers of the party in any capacity.

Respondents in the suit are the National Executives, led by Oshiomhole, members of National Working Committee, the chairmen of each of  36 states executive council, INEC and APC.

The suit was filed by Mr Tolu on behalf of Alhaji Buba Galadima, Mr Kazeem Afegbua, Mr Nicholas Asuzu and Hadi Ametuo as plaintiffs.

The plaintiffs are among other reliefs, asking for a declaration that the APC national convention election of June 23 be declared as invalid, null and void.

“We, who are members of R-APC want a declaration that having regard to the constitution of the APC, particularly Article 20, the Constitution, and the Electoral Act, the election conducted by the party at Eagle Square Abuja, on June 23 as invalid , null and void.

“Particularly the purported election of the following persons into the following  offices;  National Chairman Adams Oshiomhole, National Welfare Secretary Alhaji Ibrahim Masari, National Financial Secretary Alhaji Tunde Belio, National Physically Challenged, Misbahu Didi, Zonal Secretary North-Central Dr. Zakari Muhammed and Zonal Organising Secretary North-Central Ibrahim Abdul.

“Others are, Zonal Women Leader North-Central, Hassana Abduliahi, Ex-Officio North-Central, Nelson Abba, Zonal Secretary North-East Abubakar Sadiq, Ex-Officio North-East, lsah Azare, Zonal Secretary North-West Tukur  Gusau, and Zonal Organising Secretary North-West Abdulmunab Muhammad.

“A declaration that there being no valid election at the June 23 National Convention of the APC, thereby leaving a vacuum, the reform-minded faction of APC known as R-APC validly constituted the plaintiffs and the other national officers and state executives of APC to fill the vacuum and act in interim capacities as officers of the APC.

“An order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from parading themselves or claiming to be officers of the APC or performing any function as officers of the party in any capacity as their elections and swearing-in as officers of APC is invalid, null and void.”

In a 39- paragraph statement of claim, the plaintiffs claimed that the APC was harbouring intractable divisions and the party was awaiting a massive implosion.

The statement also claimed that the party might finally collapse unless steps were taken by reform-minded members to address the issues.

They also claimed that APC had become factionalised and it was no longer a secret as the crisis tearing the party to pieces at the national and sub-national levels was in public domain.

They further claimed that the manner in which the national convention of the party was conducted had deepened the division within the party and exacerbated the leadership crisis.

In the suit, they also claimed that most members of the party felt alienated which had resulted in open and massive divisions, fractionalization, and disenchantment within the rank and file of the party.

The News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN) reports that a date has, however, not been fixed for the hearing of the suit.

The R-APC is a body unknown in law and has no registration certificate from INEC.

(NAN)

Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, on Thursday, July 5, 2018, refused a bail application filed by Fred Ajudua, a serial fraud suspect.

Ajudua is facing trial alongside one Joseph Ochunor on a 12-count charge bordering on fraud and conspiracy.

The defendants were alleged to have defrauded one Ziad Abu Zalaf of Technical International Limited in Germany of a sum of $550, 000 in 1993.

At the last adjourned sitting on June 13, 2018, counsel to Ajudua, Norrisson Quakkers, SAN, had urged the court to grant bail to his client on health grounds.

“We filed a seven-paragraph affidavit dated June 12, where we stated the medical situation of the defendant,” Quakkers had said.

However, counsel to the prosecution, Temitope Banjo, who stood in for the lead counsel, Seidu Atteh, had told the court that Ajudua’s claim of ill health was no longer a valid reason for him to be granted bail.

The prosecution had further described the defendant as a flight risk, adding that “The defendant has relied so much on health grounds for his bail, but an investigation by the Commission revealed that whenever court grants him bail, he will start to write letters of adjournment.”

Consequently, Justice Dada had adjourned to July 5(today) for determination of the bail application by the defendant.

Ruling on the application today, Justice Dada held that granting Ajudua bail would further truncate his trial that had suffered a setback since he was first arraigned on March 5, 2009 before Justice Oyefeso.

The Judge, therefore, ordered Ajudua to be transferred to Kirikiri Prison custody pending the determination of his bail application and commencement of trial.

Ajudua was re-arraigned before Justice Dada, following the re-assignment of the case file by the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Opeyemi Oke, for accelerated trial.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been rated as “team with the best travelling uniform” in Russia by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), few days to the commencement of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

The rating comes days after a world fashion magazine GQ rated Nigerian Super Eagles jersey as the best for the 2018 World Cup.

See the travelling uniform in pictures below:

Kieran Trippier’s magnificent early free-kick had seemingly set England on course to reach their first final since they lifted the trophy on home soil back in 1966.

But it wasn’t to be, as Croatia came roaring back in the second half and equalised through Ivan Perisic before somehow finding the energy to win despite being taken to extra time for the third time in 10 days.

The biggest winners of the night could well be France, who have had an extra day’s rest for Sunday’s final after edging out Belgium 1-0 on Tuesday.

That will not matter too much right now for Croatia, who are the smallest nation to make it to the final since Uruguay back in 1950.

England had been the ones hoping to make history, in what was their first appearance in the semi-finals in 28 years.

Then they were beaten on penalties by West Germany. Having ended their famous penalty curse by beating Colombia in a shootout in the last 16, they might have fancied repeating here.

But Croatia, having won on penalties against Denmark and Russia in the last two rounds, saw the game out, dousing the World Cup dream of Gareth Southgate’s side that had gone from the improbable to the possible over the last month in Russia.

Southgate stuck with the same starting line-up as that which eased past Sweden in the quarter-finals, while Inter Milan’s Marcelo Brozovic replaced Andrej Kramaric in the Croatian line-up.

Pundits were looking to the inspirational Luka Modric to control the game, but instead it was he who gave away the early free-kick from which Trippier put England ahead.

It was a fantastic curling effort from 25 yards from the Tottenham Hotspur full-back, and England’s first goal direct from a free-kick at the World Cup since David Beckham against Ecuador in 2006.

England could not have imagined a better start.

Croatia were stunned, and Ivan Rakitic, usually so accomplished, was especially off his game.

Zlatko Dalic’s side did gradually grow into the contest, but they could still be relieved to go in at half-time only one goal down, especially as Harry Kane was denied by a combination of goalkeeper Danijel Subasic and the woodwork on the half-hour mark.

Croatia hung on and it was to their immense credit that they turned the tide after the break in what developed into an epic encounter.

Shooting towards the end of the Luzhniki Stadium where most of their fans were gathered, they equalised in the 68th minute, as Sime Vrsaljko crossed from the right and Perisic stole in front of the stooping Kyle Walker to score with his left foot.

Having looked so comfortable earlier, England’s young side were rattled, and they were lucky not to go behind soon after as Perisic sent a low shot across Jordan Pickford and off the far post.

Unable to get the second goal while they were on top, Croatia were forced into extra time again.

Vrsaljko cleared a John Stones header away from in front of the line, but England had Pickford to thank for a brilliant save as Mandzukic connected with a devilish Perisic cross.

It was a wonder the Juventus forward did not break a limb as Pickford crunched into him.

He managed to carry on after treatment, and he was on hand to sweep the ball low past Pickford after Perisic’s header back into the area caught the England defence on the hop to finally decide a brilliant contest.

–By Michael EKOKORUWE

The senior special assistant to Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, governor of Delta State on youth and community development Chief Victor O. Egbo, has donated 100 plastic chairs, 12 tables, 6 standing fans and 6 wall clocks to the five wards of Isoko South constituency 1 , at the People’s Democratic Party’s secretariat Oleh, Isoko South local government area of Delta State.

While presenting the items to Mr. Raphael Odorewu, Chairman People’s Democratic Party Isoko South, Chief Egbo said, “My consultation visits to the various wards in the constituency reveals that several items are required for the comfort of the constituents during their meeting”. He noted that some of the wards have no office and others have no furniture’s in the five wards visited.

Egbo assured the various wards chairmen that henceforth; he will be responsible for the payment of office rents of the five wards in the constituency, adding that the ward that has no office should get one as he will be responsible for the payment. He said some of the items are for the office of the local government party chairman.

Mr. Raphael Odorewu commended Chief Victor Egbo for the donation, noting that Egbo has been magnanimous in other areas and have effected new transformation into the party. Odorewu prayed for God’s blessing and urged Egbo to do more as the items were received by the party chairman and the chairmen of the five wards from Oleh kingdom, Irri and Emede communities.

The youth coordinator, Delta South Senatorial District and former president Isoko National Youth Assembly in continuation of his consultation, visited Sir Itiako C. Ikpokpo, Chairman Isoko South local government area, HRM Anthony W. Ovrawah Omogha 1, the Odiologbo of Oleh kingdom and Chief Aaron Akelemor, chairman Emede ward 05 to appeal for support in his election bid as member Delta State house assembly representing Isoko South constituency 1.

In his words Sir Ikpokpo said, Egbo is qualified for the position as he has been in position of leadership overtime. He noted that Egbo relates with people which according to him is key to the present dispensation. Ikpokpo urged Egbo to campaign vigorously; assuring that there will be free and fair primary election in the local government area. He prayed for good heath, sound mind and good followers to ensure success in the herculean task ahead.

On his part, the Odiologbo of Oleh kingdom sued for peace in Oleh during the coming elections even as he urged every aspirant to avoid litigation during the campaigns and election period. The monarch prayed for long life, peace, prosperity and wisdom to succeed in the race to the Delta State House of Assembly, Isoko South constituency 1. The monarch said, “I am sending you forth, be strong and have good relationship with people”.

In attendance are palace chiefs from Oleh kingdom, Mr. Okogba Pius, the secretary to Odiologbo of Irri community, ward chairmen from the constituency, PDP stalwarts from Isoko South and a cross section of youth and women from the constituency among others.

The Delta State SEEFOR now has a new Project Coordinator, Mr Frank Apokwu who succeeds Mr Benson Ojoko.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Dr Kingsley Emu, commended the outgoing SEEFOR Project Coordinator, Mr Benson Ojoko, for the stream of successes recorded under him and enjoined the new Project Coordinator, Mr Frank Apokwu, to justify the confidence reposed in him by ensuring the continued growth of the project.

Dr Emu gave the commendation in Asaba at a meeting he had with the new Project Coordinator, Mr Frank Apokwu, the outgoing Project Coordinator, Mr Benson Ojoko and the staff of SEEFOR Project in Asaba.

The Commissioner described Mr Ojoko’s track record and performance as uncommon especially as he had brought his wealth of experience to bear in coordinating the affairs of the project.

The Commissioner maintained that SEEFOR project was important to the state government, saying that it was the reason he attended all critical meetings concerning the project with a view to fashioning out ways of ensuring sustainability of the project.

He reiterated that the Okowa-led administration in its determination to complement infrastructural drive in the state had leveraged the SEEFOR platform for this purpose, saying that SEEFOR projects had been rated very successful by the World Bank on all its sub-components.

Dr Emu, who harped on the need for staff to adhere to World Bank procedures at all times, charged staff of SEEFOR to always put in their best, adding that Mr Benson Ojoko was a hardworking officer who the commissioner opined had impacted immensely to the project.

The Economic Planning Commission warned staff agianst peddling false rumours on the project and its activities, saying such was capable of portraying the project in negative light.

Speaking earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Economic Planning, Mr Ben Igo, urged staff to shun unnecessary and unguarded statements that could impact negatively on the project, advising evil elements in the SEEFOR project who were bent on writing unnecessary petitions to stop.

In his remarks, the new Project Coordinator, Mr Frank Apokwu, pledged to contribute his quota to the successes recorded so far in the SEEFOR project, adding that he would carry his staff along, just as he maintained that the outgoing Project Coordinator was a man full of humility.

An Asaba high court presided over by the Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Marshal Umukoro, has sentenced three convicts responsible for the kidnap of the wife of the Delta State House of Assembly Speaker Mrs Tobore Oborevwori, to 21 years imprisonment each with hard labour.

The convicts, Innocent Kpalajo 35, Ejiro Omorere 36 and Festus Okoro 28 were arraigned in May 2011 on a four count charge for conspiracy to kidnap, kidnap, demanding with menace, armed robbery, offences punishable under Sections 516 (a), 364, 406 of the Criminal Code Law Cap. C 21 Vol.1, Laws of Delta State of Nigeria 2006 and section 1 (2)(a) of the Robbery and Firearms ( Special Provisions) Act Cap. R 11.

The three accused persons pleaded not guilty to the four counts charge.

According to the prosecution, the 1st prosecution witness, Mrs Tobore Oborevwori, who identified one of her captors as her husband’s driver, testified that on the 8th of May 2011, at about 1.00 pm while driving along Osubi Road after visiting a widow, noticed a gold coloured Toyota Camry car following her and suddenly ambushed her car.

She stated that thereafter, two men carrying arms came out of the car, took her to the back seat of their car, blindfolded her and drove her to an unknown destination.

According to her, she was later chained hands and legs in a toilet with another female victim, adding that the culprits dispossessed her of her Toyota Camry car with Registration No. DT 688 ASB, BlackBerry touch phone and other personal effects.

It was reported that after 48 hours of incommunicado, the accused persons used her phone to call her pastor demanding for N50 million ransom.

The Department of State Security was later contacted who used the calls to trace one of them to a hotel at Afiesere, in Ugheli North LGA where he was arrested, and this later led to the rescue of the victim on 13th of May, 2011 at Okpare-Olomu in Ughelli South LGA.

Justice Marshal Umukoro stated that having thoroughly weighed the evidences adduced by both prosecution and defence counsel on the scale of Justice, he was convinced that the prosecution had established the ingredients of conspiracy, kidnap, demanding by menace and robbery, and accordingly found the three accused persons guilty of the four counts charge.

The convicts broke down and pleaded for mercy but the Chief Judge reminded them how they would feel if their mothers, sisters or relatives were kidnapped.

He described the second accused person, who was driver to the present speaker of Delta State House of Assembly as a traitor of the worst kind.

The Court also ordered the re-arrest of one Rotimi Oyewole who received and bought the robbed Camry car with registration No. DT 688 ASB to face trial, and same with Oghenemano Isaiah who jumped bail.

-By Albert OGRAKA:

Blank NEWS Online can authoritatively reveal that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leading presidential aspirant in the forthcoming 2019 elections and former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s visit to Delta state on Tuesday, July 26, 2018 in continuation of his consultations has further strengthened his general acceptance by Nigerians, following his insistence that there must be restructuring for Nigeria to make progress.

Atiku’s quest to contest against incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari, sole candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in next year’s presidential election has also renewed Nigerians hope that the subsisting insecurity and poverty which has ravaged the country would be a thing of the past once the main opposition party, PDP clinches power.

Atiku, a former Vice President to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, had told the PDP delegates and the mammoth crowd of supporters who accorded him a heroic reception in Asaba that his vision to reposition the country would be realised on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) if he secures the presidential ticket for the 2019 elections.

Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa:

Delta state governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa who conducted the most successful non-elective party national convention in Nigeria, commended him for engaging in consultation visit, assuring that delegates to the Presidential Primaries of the PDP will make their decisions based on acceptability, reach, experience and level of intelligence of the individual aspirants.

He maintained that the former vice president spoke in ways that aroused the interest of the people in the state; more so, when he identified himself as a friend of the state. He remarked that he cannot interrupt the people’s choice, in any way; and if Atiku is the choice of the people of Delta State, so be it.

“I made my statement which was clear and cautious.

“If you followed us properly, you will discover that when he talked to Deltans, he made a lot of statements which did interest our people, and he has said he is a friend of the state.

“He talked about restructuring and the rest. And if his programme continues to interest the people, I will not be able to hold back the hands of the people. I am not going to force any delegate to the national convention to vote the way Okowa thinks or feels.

“They will be allowed to exercise their discretion and their votes.
“As governor, I don’t want to directly support any candidate, but the will of the people will be allowed to be, but if anything happens that I have to give guidance, I will never force the people to vote against their will.”

Bashorun Askia Ogieh:

Bashorun Askia Ogieh is one of the foremost PDP chieftains in Delta state. He believes that Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has blazed the trail by endearing himself to Deltans and Nigerians.

“What he has done is the right thing. You need to consult with relevant stakeholders as you move on. It shows that he is serious. It shows his ability to carry the people along and to feel the pulse of the various state delegates as he moves on into the main contest. It shows his preparedness. He is not just waiting for him to be adopted. He is working hard for it and selling himself and his credentials and precedents and using the opportunity to tell the delegates what he can do better than every other aspirants and indeed what he can do better than the government of the day because in all of these, we are looking for a strong candidate. Someone that can deliver us, deliver the party to Aso Rock.

“Before he threw his bat into the ring, he has promised restructuring and has been hammering on it and we believe. That is the right way to go. In addition he told us that the Niger Delta Ministry is better situated in the Niger Delta Region so that the people can feel the impact. They can know what’s going on because they are too comfortable in Abuja there….and that is the right way to go.

“We are not happy that we have left there in the past three years and more so we are not happy that the country have slide into a very serious situation, especially the genocide that is happening in the far Northern states but more worrisome is that of the Middle Belt where we have the food basket. And the religious undertone that is coming in, the massacre of the people is something that we are not happy about.”

A statement titled, “Nigerian President Buhari Must Ensure Release Of Journalist Jones Abiri” and made available to Blank NEWS Online on June 21, 2018 reads:

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has challenged the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole, to immediately submit himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged humongous corruption allegations hanging on his neck.

In a Press Statement signed by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan and made available to Blank NEWS Online on June 24, 2018, the party said Oshiomhole lacks the rectitude to speak in public as a leader at any level, whatsoever, until he clears the allegations that he diverted billions of naira meant for the people of Edo state while he was governor.

PDP noted that since the petition against him at the EFCC is in the public domain, the newly coronated national chairman would do the APC, Buhari Presidency, the EFCC as well as himself a lot of good by quietly submitting himself for investigation and possibly, prosecution.

According to the party, since one of the campaign footstool upon which APC was elected into office is fighting corruption, it will be incongruous for Oshiomhole to go about his new assignment with allegation of corruption, even as tiny as a strand of hair.

It is also instructive for the new chairman to understand that Nigerians are no longer inclined to sophistry, illogical arguments, deceits, contrivance and recourse to abuse as a method of campaign.

As such, the PDP would be prepared for engagements that have the potency of rescuing our people from the hunger and starvation which the APC has sunk them.

However, the essence of Oshiomhole’s emergence as President Muhammadu Buhari’s sole candidate was not lost on Nigerians as the Presidency imposed him as a pliable instrument to frustrate other would-be presidential aspirants of APC extraction and hand the ticket to President Buhari, who, obviously is afraid to stand a presidential primary due to his failures in office.

With Saturday’s charade, APC and its Federal Government, which claims to have zero tolerance for corruption, have eaten their vomits, confirming that they have been hypocritical and trending on lies, deception and propaganda.

With the outcome of the Saturday’s convention, the APC has kissed internal democracy goodbye in the selection of its candidates at all levels as the national leadership, led by people burdened with corruption allegations, cannot but submit to the whim and caprices of those who granted them official protection from prosecution.

President Buhari and his handlers should however note that manipulating the APC convention and seizing the party’s Presidential ticket cannot help them as Nigerians, are now fully rallying on the platform of the repositioned PDP in their quest for a new President, who truly has the competence to effectively run a united, secure and prosperous nation, come 2019.

Wife of Delta state governor and founder of 05 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, has renewed her zeal and zest to increase the life expectancy of persons with sickle cell disorder by ensuring that a state of the art Sickle Cell Centre is fully established in Asaba, the state capital by the state government, to halt the myriad of challenges faced by sufferers.

Dame Okowa made the pledge while marking the 2018 World Sickle Cell Day tagged, “Emerging Therapeutic Trends in Sickle Cell Disorder” which featured health talks at the Delta state School of Nursing in Agbor, Ika South local government area on Tuesday, June 19, 2018.

She encouraged parents of “survival and success champions” not to see their children as burden but a creature of God laden with hope of helping to build the society, calling on them to “live a life of witness for the goodness of the Lord.”

She however, expressed delight over the emergence of various modern clinical solutions to deal with the challenges, adding that her pet project, 05 Initiative have fully established 12 Sickle Cell Clinics in government owned hospitals located in local government areas of the state, which according to her, have contributed to the sharp drop in deaths resulting from sickle cell disorder.

An ambassador of the awareness campaign on sickle cell disorder and curable activities, Justice Excel Timi, who commended Dame Edith Okowa for leading the campaign, lamented that most educated people in the society are yet to know their genotype. She therefore enjoined the “survival and success champions” not to give up on the primary and secondary prevention which entails regular clinical attendance, genotype tests and therapeutic treatments.

Earlier in his keynote address, the Delta state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Mordi Ononye urged parents, guardians, other individuals and corporate bodies to contribute towards the 05 Initiative efforts at making medical services available to people at the gassroots.

He further disclosed that the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration is providing an enduring solution to tackling sickle cell disorder and welfare of people with the disorder because of their usefulness to the society.

In his health talk, a consultant pediatrician revealed that statistics have shown that 150,000 children are born annually with sickle cell disorder, appealing for more blood donors to save persons with the disorder.

He decried the use of fetish and traditional means based on superstitious beliefs to tackle and cure sickle cell but advised parents and guardians of “survival and success champions” to key into the efforts of Dame Edith Okowa’s 05 Initiative activities by regularly seeking medical attention in the various esablished sickle cell clinics across the state.

In another health talk, Dr. C. N. Isibor explained that recent survey carried out by the Agbor Sickle Cell Club between 2015 and 2018 has shown a sharp increase in the life expectancy of “survival and success champions” with a complementary reduction in number of cases, as a result of the intensive campaign and provision of standard medical facilities for the treatment of persons with sickle cell disorder.

On their part, the Medical Director of the Central Hospital, Agbor Medical Zone, Dr. Philemon Okolie and the Principal at Delta State School of Nursing, Agbor, Mrs. Tessy Onwuka assured of their readiness to partner with the 05 Initiative and life enduring legacy of the wife of Delta state governor, Dame Edith Okowa.

Highlight of the celebration of the 9th World Sickle Cell Day was the cutting of cake, cultural dances performed by students of the School of Nursing and Survival and Success Champions respectively.

Recall that the World Sickle Cell Day was first celebrated in 2009 after the United Nations (UN) General Assembly established it in 2008 for June 19 annually, to increase awareness campaigns and curable activities to tackle sickle cell disorder, a foremost and common genetic diseases worldwide.

PRESS RELEASE

18th June, 2018

DELTA LINE: APC AND ITS PENCHANT FOR RABBLE ROUSING

The Delta State Peoples Democratic Party notes with dismay a Press Statement credited to the Delta State All Progressives Congress alleging that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa sacked 568 Delta Line workers. In the Statement, signed by one Moses Kamanya the Publicity Secretary of the party, the APC in a desperate attempt to muddle facts as they concern the Delta Line partial privatisation tried, albeit unsuccessfully, to whip up sentiments and score cheap political points.

Ordinarily we would not attempt to dignify that wishy washy press release with a response, but for the benefit of unsuspecting members of the public who may unwittingly be hoodwinked by APC’s cheap and vile propaganda. Any keen follower of the political developments in Delta State would have observed that the Press Statement contained nothing new; it was simply a rehash of the same old story of how the Government is supposedly selling off the assets of the State without providing any concrete evidence to support this puerile assertion.

It is imperative for us to refresh the memory of all Deltans, who are not unfamiliar with the dismal performance of Delta Line Company, that it became necessary to embark on the partial privatisation of the company to put it on the path of efficiency, profitability and sustainability. The company had for long fallen short of its mandate and had become a cesspool of corruption and a huge drain pipe on the resources of the State. It has been said that to keep doing the same thing and expect different results is akin to insanity. Unlike some APC States that completely shut down their transport company for similar reason of waste and inefficiency without payment of staff severance entitlements, the Delta State Government under Governor Okowa opted to chart a new path that will infuse life into Delta Line and yield dividends to the good people of Delta State whose tax money had been funding the company.

In the cherished values of transparency, accountability and prudent management of resources for which the Okowa administration is known for, the State Government advertised for Expression of Interest in the company in two national newspapers as required by law. After due consideration the State Executive Council preferred the bid submitted by God is Good Motors, a renowned transport company with proven track record of expertise, efficiency and sound management. Consequently, the State Government accepted its bid of =N=161m and divested 60% of its equity holding in the company.

By continuing to make a song and dance of the =N=2B bid submitted by another bidder, the APC has, unwittingly, undone its claim that Governor Okowa is selling off the assets of the State for personal gain. Were that to be the case, the Okowa administration would have jumped at the N2b offer and cash in on the seeming misfortune of Delta Line. But the overriding interest of the Governor Okowa administration has been to stop the rot in Delta line and inject new life into the company for the benefit of all Deltans.

First of all, the bidder in question did not submit its bid within the two-week period stipulated in the advertisement. Nevertheless, the Government bent over backwards to consider their bid. Unfortunately, they could not provide proof of their funding capacity, a fundamental requirement for a successful bid. In addition, this supposedly highest bidder had no track record in the transport business and, therefore, no operational structures on ground.

It is equally important to remind the dubious elements in APC that the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE), the Union responsible for the welfare of Delta Line workers were, typical of Governor Okowa’s all-inclusive governance style, carried along in all the dealings and negotiations of the State Government with God is Good Motors.

While we will, as a responsible political party, who cares for interest of our people always, impress it on the new management of Delta Line Motors, and keep a critical watch on the recruitment procedure to ensure that Deltans are given the right of first refusal in the engagement process of effective and efficient staff with verifiable competence and capacity to run its operations, we are indeed shocked and greatly disturbed at the ethnic bigotry of the APC, which suggests that only Deltans must be employed as staff of Deltan Line. It is indeed a sad reflection of the petty mind-set and crude agenda of a party which is aspiring to govern a cosmopolitan State like Delta State.

We are aware that the APC in Delta State has become very jittery over the sterling performance of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in every sector, particularly in roads construction, education and job creation. The new release of Delta Line buses and the rebranding of the company by God is Good Motors attests to the resounding success of the policy reform of the Okowa administration in the transport sector. This is giving the Delta APC sleepless nights as they have nothing to campaign with except to resort to cheap blackmail and rabble rousing.

The Delta APC would have preferred that Delta Line continue in the tradition of waste, rot, inefficiency, corruption and unserviceable debts. But our people deserve better. That is why the APC was overwhelmingly rejected by Deltans in 2015 because our people prefer prosperity to poverty. Come 2019, Deltans will once again show the All Promises Cancelled Party that their choice remains progress and prosperity as represented by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

With God is Good managing its operations, Delta Line will grow with time and in the next few years, Deltans shall be getting good returns from the company, not only as one of our most recognizable brands as a State, but indeed as a viable company that we will all be proud of.

God Bless Delta State.

Long Live PDP

Dr. Ifeanyi Michael Osuoza
State Publicity Secretary
PDP, Delta State

A Luka Modric penalty and an own goal from Oghenekaro Etebo gave former semi-finalists Croatia an easy 2-0 win over Nigeria in their World Cup Group D opener on Saturday.

Oghenekaro Etebo was helpless in deflecting the ball into his own net in the 32nd minute and a second half spot-kick from Real Madrid star Modric sealed the points.

Nigeria rarely looked capable of threatening an equalizer and must improve considerably to have any chance of reaching the knock-out phase.

Argentina were held to a 1-1 draw with Iceland earlier in the group. Croatia next meet the two-time champions Argentina on Thursday while Nigeria take on Iceland on Friday.

Croatia finished a brilliant third in their debut World Cup at France 98 but have since failed to progress past the group stage.

That is expected to change this time as a golden generation, Modric at its heart, tries once more to click on the biggest stage.

“It was a very tough game but we have expected that,” Modric said.

“I believe that on the wings of this win we will up our game and continue our journey in the way that we planned before coming here.”

Ivan Perisic fired over from outside the box but the Nigerian defence could generally keep the opposing forwards at bay.

That changed with a stroke of blind luck when Mario Manduzkic threw himself at a flicked-on corner and headed the ball off Etebo to deflect beyond keeper Francis Uzoho.

Andrej Kramaric looped a header onto the roof of the net and half-time arrived with neither team having officially registered a shot on target.

Nigeria emerged invigorated from the break and Victor Moses dragged a shot wide of the near post after cutting in from the right.

A save was finally made in the 59th when Danijel Subasic easily held a weak header from Odion Ighalo.

But when Mandzukic was grappled by William Ekong at a set piece, man of the match Modric coolly sent Uzoho the wrong way from the spot to seal the tie with 19 minutes remaining.

“Croatia were the better team,” Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr admitted. “My team have struggled with their limited experience against this side.

“But I was not unhappy with the performance.”

Substitute Mateo Kovacic could even have made it three in injury-time but sent a weak shot straight at Uzoho.

–By Michael EKOKORUWE

Leaders of Isoko extraction, Isoko traditional ruler’s council, president -generals and chairmen of OML 30 cluster groups from Isoko communities, have demanded for a new General Memorandum of Understanding (GMOU) between Heritage Energy Operational Limited and host communities of Isoko Nation for Isoko oil mining lease (OML)30 community development board.

The hint was made during a meeting between the representatives of the oil firm and Isoko leaders, the royal majesties, president – generals and chairmen of cluster groups from Isoko communities in the OML 30 community development board.

The chairmen of Isoko South and North, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo and Hon. Emmanuel Egbabor who conveyed the meeting stated that the stakeholders meeting is for the welfare and stake of Isoko people in OML 30 board. Sir Ikpokpo urged Heritage Energy operational limited to harmonize and prioritize payments of staffs salaries, contractors and employment slots for Isoko indigenes, adding that president general of host communities should be well informed of such payments. He appealed to the oil firm for transparency and details of activities.

Speaking at the stakeholders meeting HRM Okpuzo Inana, the Odiologbo of Owhe kingdom said, the tenure of the OML 30 community development board has expired since 5th of February 2018. The monarch noted that Heritage energy operational services should have issued a template containing the directive for a new GMOU. He emphasized that Isoko people need their own OML 30 community development board.

The monarch maintained that, with the new GMOU and community development board for Isoko Nation, Heritage Energy operational limited will operate peacefully with the host communities and eventually produce more barrels of oil. He added that contractors will be happy to work just as the operations will be beneficial to all and more revenue will go to the state government through pay as you earn policy.

Earlier, the president – generals from various Isoko communities decried non – employment of indigenes, contractors owing between 7 to 8 months of staffs salaries and a general distrust between the oil firm and host communities.

While responding, the representatives of Heritage energy operational limited said, two sons of Isoko have been given management employment slots. They are Mr. Ake Okpako Michael from Emevor in charge of operation and Humphrey Mazoje from Owhe as manager and adviser in charge of field human resource, both from Isoko North local government area.

The oil firm representative agreed on further deliberations on a later date with the royal majesties, president generals and chairmen of cluster groups for a better understanding of the new GMOU and Isoko OML 30 community development board process. Heritage assured of harmonizing all issues for peaceful community relations in the area of operation.

In attendance are the security agencies, the Nigeria Army and the police. Chief Iduh Amadhe, president general Isoko Development Union, Isoko traditional ruler’s council, president – generals and chairmen of OML 30 cluster group from various Isoko communities, Umuakpo Ovie, president Isoko National Youth Assembly and representatives of Heritage energy operational limited.

Senator Atai Aidoko representing Kogi East in the National Assembly has been sacked by a Federal High Court in Abuja.

The court declared in its verdict that Aidoko was wrongly presented by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as its candidate after the primaries held in December 2014.

Isaac Alfa had challenged the election of Aidoko’s election, claiming it was wrong.

In the course of the legal battle, an appeal court ordered the two parties in the case to go back to the trial court to determine whether or not Aidoko deserved to represent the people of Kogi East in the National Assembly.

The seat was therefore expected to remain vacant.

But Aidoko continued to attend the Senate, representing his senatorial district.

In its verdict on Wednesday, the Federal High Court presided over by Gabriel Kolawole, after sacking Aidoko, ordered him and the PDP to pay the sum of N750,000 each to Alfa.