The traditional ruler of Ogodor and Chairman of Aniocha North Traditional Rulers Committee, HRM Sunday Olisewokwu has been reportedly abducted by unknown gunmen who invaded his palace over the weekend.

Ogodor is an agrarian community in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State.

Dependable source from the area disclosed that the abduction may not be unconnected to his role in the festering Royal crisis rocking Idumuje Ugboko Kingdom in Aniocha North local government area.

A family source who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the monarch was abducted at the weekend, wounding two of his aides in the heat of the abduction

Recently, Obi Olisewokwu, had in a letter addressed to the Permanent secretary, Directorate of chieftaincy Affairs, Deputy Governor’s office Asaba, on behalf of Aniocha North kings, dated 3rd May 2018, titled ”RE -APPOINTMENT OF PRINCE JUSTIN OREZE CHUKWUNONSO NWOKO AS THE OBI OF IDUMUJE UGBOKO KINGDOM” warned that non adherence to established procedure in crowning a new obi could ”lead to mayhem” and unprecedented violence in Idumuje Ugboko.

In the letter signed by the obi of Ogodor and the secretary of Aniocha North traditional rulers committee, Mr. Nwaokolo Louis, the traditional rulers noted that beyond customary guidelines for royal ascension ”there are many court cases challenging the enthronement of Nonso Nwoko of which the Aniocha North traditional rulers committee is a party.”

Some observers are linking the abduction to the position of the chairman, and members of the Traditional council of the area, on the lingering crises in Idumuje Ugboko Royal dispute, as the counsil had insited that due process be followed in the face of several court cases on the issue of the right person to ascend the throne.

Recently, tension rose in the Idumuje Ugboko community when the Senator representing Delta North visited the community, was welcomed by Prince Nonso Nwoko where he reportedly received “royal blessings” from Nonso Nwoko on behalf of the Idumuje Ugboko people.

The Iyase (Prime Minister) of Idumuje-Ugboko, Chief Chris Ogwu in a letter faulted the ascription of Nonso Nwoko as the Obi of the community.

As at the time of filling this report, the state police command has not responded to enquiry on the abduction.

Nigeria’s Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has reacted to his invitation by the Nigeria Police Force over the recent bank robbery in Offa, Kwara State, describing it as baseless.

He alleged that the plot was designed to embarrass him, and would fail.

Force Public Relations Officer, Jimoh Moshood, had, earlier on Sunday, announced the invitation of Saraki over the bank robbery, claiming that some of the leaders of the robbery gang had implicated him.

“Senate President, Sen. Bukola Saraki is being invited by the Nigeria Police Force to report to the Force Intelligence Response Team office at Guzape, Abuja to answer to the allegations levelled against him from the confessions of the Five (5) Gang Leaders, namely; Ayoade Akinnibosun, Ibukunle Ogunleye, Adeola Abraham, Salawudeen Azeez, Niyi Ogundiran and some of the other Seventeen (17) suspects arrested for direct involvement and active participation in the Offa Bank Robbery and the gruesome killing of THIRTY THREE (33) innocent persons which include (some pregnant women and nine (9) Police personnel),” Moshood said.

But reacting in a statement issued by his media aide, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki said the invitation was designed to embarrass him.

According to him, he said it was a bid to implicate him by all means.

He however said that whenever the invitation was extended to him, he would honour it.

The statement reads:

The attention of the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has been drawn to a story circulating online and apparently derived from a Press Conference addressed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Moshood Jimoh, linking him (Saraki) to the Offa robbery.

Dr. Saraki will want the entire public to disregard this claim as a baseless allegation and another ploy by the Police to implicate him by all means.

“Let it be known that there is no way I could have been associated with armed robbery against my people. When the Offa robbery incident happened, I was the first top public official to pay a visit to the place and right there in the palace of the traditional ruler, I put a call through to this same Mr. Ibrahim Idris, the IGP, requesting him to make certain specific security arrangements as demanded by the people.

“Members of the public will remember that on May 16, 2018, I alerted the Senate about the information passed on to me by my State Governor, Dr. Abdulfatai Ahmed, over a plot by the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Idris, to frame me up by getting some suspected cultists arrested in Ilorin to implicate me. It is believed that the timely leakage of the plot in that case aborted the use of the suspected cultists to implicate me. Now, it is the Offa bank robbery suspects that are about to be used.

“This plot is concocted to embarrass me and, in the mind of the IGP, it is his own response after his refusal to honour the invitation by the National Assembly, headed by me, for him to come and offer explanations on the rampant killings and violence across the country.

“Like the earlier one, this frame-up will also fail as I hereby state categorically that I have no link with any band of criminals.

“As a person who has utmost respect for the rule of law and all constitutional institutions, when the invitation from the Police is formally extended to me, I will be ready to honour it without any delay.

“It is however sad that this abuse of the criminal investigation process aimed at intimidating and over-overawing the legislature, thereby obstructing it from doing its work, is a big threat to our democracy “, the Senate President stated

It would be recalled that about three weeks ago, Saraki raised the alarm that there were plans by the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, to implicate him.

Addressing his colleagues at the Senate, Saraki said: “My distinguished colleagues, there is an issue which I need to bring to your attention very urgently. Last night, my State Governor, Dr. Abdulfatai Ahmed, revealed to me an information at his disposal that a group of suspects who had been in police cells for several weeks for cultism and whose investigation had been concluded with prosecution about to commence under the State law based on the advice of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) and the Ministry of Justice were ordered to be transferred to Abuja this morning.

“According to the information available to the Governor, the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Idris Ibrahim directed the Commissioner of Police in Kwara State to immediately transfer the men to the Force Headquarters.

“The plan, as the Governor was made to understand is that, under duress, the suspects would be made to alter the statements they already made in Ilorin. They will then be made to implicate the Kwara State Government, and in particular, myself, in their new statement.

“This plot is part of the strategy by the IGP Idris to settle scores over the declaration by this honourable Chamber that he is not qualified and competent to hold any public office, within and outside the country and that he is an enemy of Nigerian democracy based on his usual disrespectful conduct towards lawful authorities.

“In my own view, this plot is an act of desperation, blackmail, intimidation, abuse of office and crude tactics aimed at turning our country into a Police State where top officials cannot be made to obey the law, follow due process and subject themselves to constituted authorities.

“I want to bring this dangerous development to the attention of all of you my colleagues, the entire country and the international community so that you can be aware of the level of impunity in our country and the danger it constitute to our democracy.”

-By Albert OGRAKA:

The wife of the governor of Delta state and founder of 05 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, on Friday, June 01, 2018 celebrated her 57th birthday anniversary with pupils at the Special Education Centre (School for the Handicapped), Agbor in Ika South local government area of the state.

The Governor of Delta state, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa had earlier made a surprise appearance at the office of the First Lady to celebrate with his wife, Dame Edith Okowa before leaving to embark on commissioning of completed projects in company of the Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

At the Special Education Centre (School for the Handicapped), Agbor, a proof that disability is not a deprivation manifested when the pupils’ performance emotional brought tears to the faces of many who attended the birthday celebration.

In an emotion laden speech, the First Lady and founder of 05 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, enjoined all to fufil their earthly purposes in life by affecting the lives of the less privileged and persons with disabilities.

She therefore urged the people not to relent in their efforts at giving succour to the less privileged in the state.

According to her, “Everyone of us came into the world for a purpose. We should do away with self and think about how we have fared in our relationship with God and humanity.
What matters in this world is how much you have affected the people and not how much is in your bank accounts.

“To fulfill the purpose, we need God, parents and humanitarian person to help make ends meet for the children. A child is for the whole community. All hands must be on deck to help alleviate their several challenges. No child should be despised because of disability. Your life should not always be for you and your children but for all.”

Dame Okowa also encouraged parents to continue to assist their children with disabilities and mostly teach them the word of God.

While acknowledging the efforts of the Head of the Special Education Centre, Mrs. Ezehi Francisca, she promised to take over the payment of salaries for two voluntary teachers for one year and assured that the JS1 will commence in next session in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. The two lucky teachers were said to have been paid N10,000 each monthly by the head of school through voluntary contributions by humanitarian individuals.

In her address, the Head of the Special Education Centre, Mrs. Ezehi Francisca expressed appreciation to Her Excellency who despite the position God has placed her, has humbled herself to identify with the less privileged in the society.

She said as a result of its uniqueness, the Special Education Centre has given hope to the hopeless and wiped the tears and confusion of parents and families of children with disabilities, adding that the Centre is the only school that provides educational, vocational and social needs of children with disabilities in the whole of Ika South and Ika North East local government areas of the state.

The categories of disabilities in the Centre, according to her, include the hearing impaired (deaf), the visually impaired (blind) and intellectually impaired, just as she mentioned that the children use the same curriculum with regular school and write the same terminal examinations while most of the pupils that passed out from the school with their primary school certificates had no secondary school around to continue their education.

She further mentioned the lack of a school bus as another major challenge faced by the day school, as the children trek to and from school everyday, despite their challenges, thereby facing the hazards and risk of being knocked down by vehicles.

The Chief Inspector of Education (CIE), Ika South local government area, Mrs. Joan Nwanji described the First Lady as “humility personified for leaving your exalted office to this lowly place.”

One of the parents and a pupil, Miss Blessing Okwuazu respectively, thanked Dame Okowa for coming to celebrate with them.

Highpoint of the birthday celebration was the cutting of the birthday cake, presentation of gifts to the children which includes black boards, science equipment, writing materials, toiletries, buckets, food flask, mats among others, after the rendition of the National Anthem with signs, birthday songs and cultural dance by the children with disabilities.

-By Albert OGRAKA:

The Delta state House of Assembly has confirmed the nomination of Mr. Anthony Chuks Obuh and Mr. Lawson Efenudu as the Chairman and Secretary of Delta State Bureau for Pensions.

Obuh, a retired Permanent Secretary and former Commissioner for Special Duties (Government House) in Delta state was confirmed on Wednesday, May 30, 2018 at the legislative chambers of the state House of Assembly.

While screening the nominees for the apointment, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori who asked the duo to take a bow and leave described them as persons with exemplary qualities.

The Majority Leader of the House and member representing Isoko North Constituency, Sir. Tim Owhefere and his Ika South counterpart, Hon. Okoh Festus Chukwuyem moved and seconded the motion for the screening of the nominees before introducing them to the House.

The member representing Ika South Constituency, Hon. Okoh Festus Chukwuyem described Mr. Anthony Obuh as a very resourceful person whose services to the state government would bring value and prudence to the state Bureau for Pensions.

The motion for the confirmation of the duo was also moved by the Majority Leader, Hon. Tim Owhefere and seconded by member representing Ika North East State Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Anthony Emeka Elekeokwuri.

In an interview, the newly confirmed Chairman of the Delta state Bureau for Pensions, Mr. Anthony Obuh expressed his determination to work for the interest of pensioners in the state in accordance with laid down rules and also thanked God and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for finding him fit to serve in that capacity.

Dr. Cairo Ojougboh a Former member of the House of Representatives and frontline Delta state Governorship Aspirant of the APC has listed some of his achievements as public office holder. 

Cairo said he believed that achievements will always speak for itself, but he decided to outline some of them by himself to set the records due to what he described as deliberate attempt by some people to misinform the public.

The Delta Governorship hopeful who represented Ika Federal Constituency of Delta State from 2003 – 2007 while responding to questions and answers during an interactive session has described his public service record as corrupt free.

Writing on his official twitter account @CairoOjougboh stated: “Since the day I made the decision to engage in how I and my constituents will be governed by being part of the political process I have always been of the opinion that my achievements will speak for itself.

However, it is important we set the records straight due to the malicious attempt my some individuals to distort my achievements as a political office holder during my tenure as a member of the House of Representatives and as a private citizen. My Achievement meets integrity.

1. Member Federal House of Representatives, 2003-2007.
2. As a member of the Federal House of Representatives, between 2003 – 2007, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh sponsored the award of the Benin-Agbor-Asaba 133KVA Sub-stationed Transmission line that has now being commissioned.
3. The Digitalization of the Agbor Telephone Exchange.
4. Initiated and completed numerous infrastructural projects such as mechanized power-driven Boreholes in Alihame, Ozanogogo and Ekuku Agbor.
5. Completion of Agbor/Sokponba/Ogharife Road.
6. Employment facilitation of over 2000 persons both graduates and non-graduates into state and federal establishments.
7. Consistent critic of corruption and misgovernance.
8. Till date I have an untainted public servant track record without any single case of corruption.
9. Promotion of Nigerian Exports.
10. Scholarships funding of students under the Cairo Ojougboh Foundation.
11. Till date The 15 Elders of Alihami (Ndi Ichen) have been on the Monthly support programme of the Ojougboh Foundation.
12. I have consistently stood against oppression and injustice no matter the consequence.
These are just to mention a few.
I am Dr. CAIRO OJOUGBOH A TRUE SON OF ALIHAMI AND I SEEK YOUR SUPPORT FOR A NEW DELTA OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVERYONE REGARDLESS OF TRIBAL AFFILIATION OR RELIGION” The tweet ended.
CHECK OUT THE TWEETS
Check out @CairoOjougboh’s Tweet: https://twitter.com/CairoOjougboh/status/999280554498502656?s=08
Check out @CairoOjougboh’s Tweet: https://twitter.com/CairoOjougboh/status/999282468195917824?s=08
Dr. Cairo was also Chairman, Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) ,Presidential Liaison Officer to the President on NASS and Special Assistant to Mr. President on NASS (2007 – 2011)

As Deltans and Nigerians in general mark another Democracy Day, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, speaks on the three years of the administration of Governor Okowa. He tells Journalists in Asaba, the State Capital that the Governor has done very well. Happy Reading :

QUESTION: HOW WOULD YOU RATE THE OKOWA’S GOVERNMENT?

ANSWER: My rating of the administration of His Excellency, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa is very high. High in the sense that, he has done a lot for the State in the past three years of his administration. The impact of the Governor is being felt in all parts of the State. He came into office at a time when there was a serious economic recession in the country and this affected the revenue of the State. But as a Governor with a vision and on a mission, he has carried on efficiently and Deltans are seeing things for themselves that they have a capable and experienced Governor. I will rate this Government very high because we have a prudent Governor at the helm of affairs who has been able to manage the funds coming into the State to the satisfaction of the people.

QUESTION: IS IT TRUE THAT THE GOVERNOR FAILED TO DELIVER ON HIS CAMPAIGN PROMISES?

ANSWER: It is not true that His Excellency, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, the Governor of Delta State failed to deliver on his campaign promises to Deltans. The Governor has fulfilled his campaign promises. The Governor has kept his Covenant with Deltans. I have known the Governor for a very long time; he is a man that you can trust. The Governor has been able to spread infrastructural development to the three Senatorial Districts of the State and today, cries of marginalization have died down naturally. He has restored peace to all parts of the State and today Deltans are enjoying ethnic harmony. Apart from the menace of Herdsmen in some parts of the State, there is no threat to peace in the State. The menace of the Herdsmen has been curtailed to a very large extent by this administration. Attacks on oil facilities have stopped. The summary to your question is that, the Governor has delivered on his electoral promises to Deltans and he should be given a pat on the back. He should be commended for his developmental strides in the State. The Smart Agenda of the Governor is a Reality. The Governor Okowa that I know is a man of his words and a listening person.

QUESTION: ARE YOU COMFORTABLE WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE STATE UNDER OKOWA’S WATCH?

ANSWER: Yes, I am very comfortable with the development of the State under His Excellency, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa. Like I said a short while ago, the Governor has been able to spread infrastructural development to all parts of the State and Deltans are happy with the man that they elected as their Governor three years ago. The truth of the matter is that the achievements of Governor Okowa are enviable and Deltans have the course to roll out the drums and red carpets on May 29, 2018 to celebrate the laudable achievements of the Governor Okowa led Administration. The Governor has done extremely well. The Governor has received several awards as a result of his enviable achievements. Only recently, Urhobo Traditional Rulers passed a Vote of Confidence on the Governor over his achievements. All over, the people are comfortable with the development so far recorded by our dynamic Governor.

Delta state Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has been described as a worthy Leader and Ambassador of Democracy in Delta State and Nigeria as a whole.

This lofty description was made by Jon. Ndudi Elumelu, a former House of Representative Member and chieftain of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP who, stated it in his message of congratulations to the Governor, as he mark his three years anniversary as the Governor of the State.

Elumelu said that Governor Okowa has, in the last three years at the saddle of administration in Delta State, demonstrated leadership and unprecedented good governance in piloting the affairs of the state, adding that the people of Delta State have no doubt, felt the impact of his administration in one way or the other.

“The purpose of democracy is for good governance and good representation of the people in issues that have to do with their well-being. Democracy has to do with leading the people in the right direction and is aimed at using the available resources of the people in improving their standard of living.

“And I make bold to say that Governor Okowa has used the available resources of the people of Delta State in the most prudent  and God fearing way in improving their standard of living.

“He has shown maturity, determination, fairness, transparency and above all the fear of God in the appropriation of the resources of the people of the State and on behalf of my family and the people of Aniocha Oshimili, I sincerely congratulate and felicitate with him for the wonderful works so far done in the State. We are very happy with his administration,” Hon. Elumelu affirmed.

Hon. Elemulu who is a seeking the Aniocha Oshimili Federal constituency House of Representative seat come 2019, as the leading contender and with the massive support of his people, further stated that the state, particularly the Aniocha Oshimili people will continue to be grateful to the Governor for making them feel the impact of democratic governance through massive infrastructural developments located in every part of Aniocha Oshimili Federal Constituency.

The grassroots politician, commended Senator Okowa for the establishment of the Delta State Capital Development Authority and said that with the completed and ongoing construction work in the various projects within the Asaba Capital Territory, especially the Storm drainage flood Control, which he described as a mega project ever to be undertaken by any administration in the State, Asaba the capital of the State is about becoming one of the best state capitals in Nigeria.

Elumelu added that the SMART Agenda of the
State Governor has become a laudable one
that is about transforming the State to an enviable one amongst the comity of States in the country.

The PDP Chieftain therefore reiterated his resolve and that of his family to join forces with the leaders and the People of Aniocha Oshimili to work assiduously with a view to returning the Governor in 2019 to continue with his good work of transforming the State, even as he called on Aniocha Oshimili People to continue to show love and gratitude to the Governor as they work towards re-electing him for another term in office next year.

-By Albert OGRAKA:

AS Children’s Day was celebrated in Nigeria on Sunday, May 27, 2018, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and his wife, through the O5 Initiative Kitchen prepared sumptuous buffet for children at the Cenotaph, in Asaba with the governor calling on parents to devote greater time to their children.

Despite the low-turnout of children at the celebration which featured march past, cultural dance, modelling, among others, wife of the Governor and founder of 05 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, used her pet programme, O5 Initiative to provide food and refreshment for the children.

According to the Governor, “parents and caregivers, should devote greater time, and attention to the children, we must not leave the upbringing and character formation of our children to teachers alone; we should take greater responsibility for the sake of their protection, wellbeing and the orderliness of society at large.”

Governor Okowa said, “This year’s theme, ‘Creating Safe Spaces for Children: Our Collective Responsibility,’ is meant to sensitize government, stakeholders and other duty bearers on the crucial need to strategize on ways of creating a protective, violence free and safe spaces for every child in Delta State.”

He decried the level of abuses against children “ranging from rape, defilement, sexual exploitation, cultism, child trafficking, child labour, to mention a few,” asserting that, “the situation calls for more concerted efforts of all and sundry to take proactive measures and increase the consciousness of providing safe and very secure spaces for our children to grow up in the midst of genuine and selfless love, care and attention.”

He emphasised, “I wish to appeal to all duty bearers to actively promote the ideals of the Childs Rights Law, bearing in mind that we are accountable to God on how we discharge our obligations to our children, knowing very well that our future as a State and nation, will be defined by the quality of today’s children.”

High point of the celebration was the feeding of the children by members of the 05 Initiative led by Dame Edith Okowa, who personally served food and drinks to the children from various schools and insisting that “children deserves Godly counselling, special care, affordable education, good health care and protection from parents, guardians and government”

The First Lady’s pet project, 05 Initiative is also engaged in providing free health care services, establishment of sickle cell clinics, visits to prison inmates, assisting orphans in orphanage homes, providing for less privileged women and clothing the naked, especially in public schools across the state.

Earlier in a church service, guest preacher, Master Chibuzor Promise urged parents to create safe spaces for their children, bring them up in the way of the Lord so as they can make good choices in life.

Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, members of the National Assembly, among other political office holders and cross section of the society attended the event.

**Residents Gear Up For Protest Over Outrageous Estimated Bills, Negligence

-By Albert OGRAKA:

The unholy acivities of the Benin Electricity Development Company (BEDC) in parts of Delta state have become a torn in the flesh of Deltans as a result of gross negligence, exploitation and hindered services.

The management of the company have also been alleged to be compromised as complaints from members of the public about the nefarious activities of their staff usually fall on deaf ears.

An incident of note was when an 11 KVA High Tension wires were cut off in a residential area in Okpanam area under the jurisdiction of BEDC on Friday, May 25, 2018, making residents to run for their lives.

Despite a call put across to the Manager, Mr. Godspower describing the location and explaining the situation which posed serious danger to the residents at 12:56pm, it took BEDC officials over three hours to arrive the scene, after residents mounted sentry to warn passersby and motorists of the lurking danger.

Efforts to futher reach other officials of BEDC was scuttled as calls made to one
Engr. Stephen, who had earlier claimed to be in charge of the affected area did no go through as his phone line was switched off, an act which a BEDC official later disclosed was deliberate since he was unwilling to swing into action. “That is his style. He only acts when money is involved.”

To the chagrin of this writer, when the officials led by their team leader, Mr. Monday eventually arrived the scene, they became furious with the caller, saying that “Why are you calling us. Don’t you know that our vehicle is not functional?”

When reminded about the dangerous effect of a powered 11 KVA High Tension wire dangling on the ground in a residential area, the BEDC official responded that, “,Anybody can die and we will defend it anywhere. After all we are not getting much fund from this neighborhood.”

Meanwhile, as soon as the BEDC officials arrived the scene of the cut-off high tension wire, the official Hilux van they came in broke down in the middle of the road. It also took the efforts of this writer to hire a car battery, as they also bitterly complained that “the engine of this car is dead and we do not have any means to leave this place after the repairs.”

Only recently, BEDC officials besieged some parts of Okpanam and Asaba with heavily armed military personnel in a white Hilux Van and two black Landcriser Prado Jeep with registration numbers KSF 987 EL and KSF 347 EW.

The team led by an expatriate embarked on mass disconnection of electricity, carting away electric wires to the astonishment of residents, whose complaints of over billing due to BEDC’s alleged estimation of their residences fell on deaf ears.

A resident whose light was cut-off in the process described what is faced by electricity consumers as unfair and unjustified. He said, “This is outrageous and broad-day light stealing, humiliation and oppression by BEDC to Nigerian Citizens of Delta State, Edo and other area of jurisdiction of BEDC.”

Another resident complained bitterly saying, “Our monthly estimated electricity bills for a three-bedroom bungalow when electricity actually lasts for few hours daily ranges from between N30, 000 and N50, 000. How can such bills be said to be fair. We were exploited by one Mr. Ejiro of BEDC who demanded so much money to give us prepaid meters. We are yet to see any after collection of money with the pretext that we will get them.”

Aggrieved Deltans have therefore called on the federal government, NLC, Human Right Commissions, the Management of BEDC and other concerned Nigerians to be conscious and aware of the suffering ordinary Nigerians are going through in the hands of BEDC.

Meanwhile, landlords and homeowners in Delta State have vowed to take to the streets to protest what they claimed was “outrageous estimated electricity bills” from the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC).

The anticipated protesters are demanding the installation of prepaid meters to all desiring homes in the state capital, complaining about alleged demand by some BEDC officials for N100,000 for the installation of the meters.

Although some BEDC officials, under condition of anonymity have claimed that they were given a matching order and mandate to generate funds by all means, that the amount they generate, will determine salaries; and since then they have been issuing indiscriminate and unchecked estimated bills on their customers and Nigerians, millions of Nigerians have been facing the same agony and humiliation of estimated billing with mutiny by BEDC, especially those who do not have means to present their case to the general public.

***Watch out for more reports on activities of BEDC in Blank NEWS Online

A British judge ruled on Thursday that Bodo community in the Niger Delta region, which has been involved in a protracted legal battle with Shell over the clean-up of two 2008 oil spills, should retain the option of litigation for another year.

Lawyers for Bodo had accused Shell of trying to kill off the legal case by seeking a court order that would have meant the community had to meet onerous conditions before it could revive its litigation, which is currently on hold.

A London High Court judge, Mrs. Justice Cockerill, ruled that the litigation should remain stayed until July 1, 2019, with no conditions attached should the Bodo community’s representatives seek to re-activate it before then.

“We are delighted the court has rejected Shell’s attempt to restrict the community’s legal rights,” said Dan Leader, the Bodo community’s lead UK lawyer.

“The message is clear — Shell must clean up this appalling oil spill and the Bodo community will keep on with its legal case until they are confident that it will do so,” he said.

The 2008 oil spills devastated the lands and waterways of Bodo, which is just one of numerous communities in the oil-producing Niger Delta that have suffered environmental harm and profound economic and social dysfunction linked to the industry.

In 2015, Shell accepted liability for the spills, agreeing to pay 55 million pounds ($83 million at the time) to Bodo villagers and to clean up their lands and creeks.

After years of delays, the clean-up is currently underway, under the auspices of the internationally recognised Bodo Mediation Initiative.

Shell’s lawyers had argued at a hearing on Tuesday that the community should only be able to re-activate the legal case should Shell fail to comply with its obligation to pay for the clean-up.

But Bodo’s lawyers had countered that the community should have unfettered access to the London courts if the clean-up was not completed to a high standard.

A spokeswoman for Shell said the company remained committed to working with the BMI to advance the clean-up plan in Bodo.

She welcomed a section of the ruling in which the judge backed the BMI and stated that any obstruction to the clean-up process by members of the Bodo community could undermine any future attempts by its lawyers to revive the London litigation.

In the past, some members of the community — as is common in Niger Delta communities affected by oil spills — have sought to block the clean-up.

The reasons for such obstructions vary and can include local power struggles or attempts to extort bigger payouts or additional contracts from oil firms.

(Reuters/NAN)

Federal, states and local governments have shared N701 billion as revenue for the month of April, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mr Mahmoud Isa-Dutse, said.

Isa-Dutse told newsmen that the amounts shared were the outcome of Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting.

Giving a breakdown of the revenue accrued in April, the permanent secretary said mineral revenue increased by N50.7 billion, that is from N360.51 billion in March to N411.2 billion in April.

He added that non-mineral revenue also increased by N81.25 billion, from N120 billion in March to N201.3 billion in April.

He noted that Value Added Tax (VAT) collected increased from N80.35 billion in March to N83.4 billion in April.

He indicated that “gross statutory revenue of N613 billion received for the month was higher than the N480.59 billion received in previous month by N132.45 billion.

“Crude oil sales volume increased by 64 per cent, compared with 7.72 million barrels from the previous month, resulting in increased revenue from the Federation Crude Oil Export Sales by 226.90 million dollars.

“Also, average crude oil price increased from 65.7 dollars to 66.78 dollars per barrel.

“Performance for the month in review would have been better but for a few production shut-ins and shut-downs at various terminals for repairs and maintenance.”

Isa-Dutse said looking at the significant increase in revenues, the federal, states and local government decided to save some of the month’s revenue for rainy day.

To this end, the permanent secretary said, N24.5 billion would be converted and added into the dollars denominated Excess Crude Account.

He added that “based on increased revenue for the month and after due consultation, it has been decided that we will take out N24.5 billion and credit it into the Excess Crude Account.

“This brings the Excess Crude Oil Account balance to 1.11 billion dollars and the Excess Petroleum Profit Tax Account is 0.133 billion dollars,” he said.

In summary, Isa-Dutse said, N276.53 billion was allocated to Federal Government, N140.2 billion to states and N108.1 billion was allocated to local governments.

On the issue of reconciliation of accounts with Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Isa-Dutse said it was ongoing.

He explained that reconciliation of monies collected by revenue generating agencies was also ongoing.

Meanwhile, the Chairman, Finance Commissioner’s Forum, Mr Mahmud Yunusa, said states were planning to contest the current revenue sharing formula.

He said it was not fair that Federal Government should take the lion share of the revenue “when states and local governments were closer to the people.

“We are clamouring for review of the revenue sharing formula because most people reside in states and local governments.

“The Federal Government only controls Abuja but where the real Nigerians reside are states and local governments.

“So, we believe they should have more revenues so that they can work better, so that the people will feel the impact and presence of government.”

Yunusa said states would soon make their demand formal so that the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) would begin the process of reviewing the current revenue sharing formula.

Currently, the country is operating on a revenue allocation formula of; Federal Government — 52.68 per cent, State Governments — 26.72 per cent and Local Governments — 20.60 per cent.

Also, 13 per cent of the oil and gas federally collected revenue is given to oil producing states and communities as derivation revenue to compensate for ecological risks of oil production.

This formula was designed during the President Olusegun Obasanjo Administration.

However in 2015, the RMAFC saw the need to review the formula for balanced development of the country, hence it embarked on nationwide sensitisation tour to the 36 states of the federation to campaign for review.

The result was later submitted to former President Goodluck Jonathan, though it was never made public.

(NAN)

**Re: Idumuje Ugboko monarch throws weight behind Nwaoboshi

The tradidional Prime Minister, Iyase of Idumuje-Ugboko, Chief Chris Ogwu has discountenanced recent claims that the Senator representing Delta North, Peter Nwaoboshi received royal blessings from the “Monarch” of Idumuje Ugboko, Justin Chukwunonso “1V” at his palace to return to the red chambers, come 2019!

Chief Ogwu, in a statement made available to Blank NEWS Online said the alleged endorsement of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi by a “Monarch” on behalf of the Idumuje Ugboko people, was false, malicious and capable of disrupting the peace of Idumuje-Ugboko, who presently do not have a king since the death of Obi Albert Nwoko.

The statement reads:

“My attention has been drawn to news reports such as the above titled making the rounds that the Senator representing Delta North, Peter Nwaoboshi visited the “Monarch” of Idumuje Ugboko, Justin Chukwunonso “1V” at his palace where he (the “monarch”), was said to have given the Senator “Royal blessings”, this endorsing him on behalf of the Idumuje Ugboko people, in his quest to return to the red chambers, come 2019!

“For the avoidance of doubt, let me state categorically, that since the mysterious passing on of Obi Albert Nwoko about 2 years ago, (the matter is still in court), there has been NO installation of ANY OBI to succeed Obi Albert Nwoko till date!

“It is on record that NOBODY has been recognised or GAZETTED by the Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa administration either by verbal pronouncement or Presentation of Staff of office as OBI OF IDUMUJE Ugboko (or MONARCH) since the mysterious death of One Albert Nwoko almost two (2) years ago!

“It is therefore misleading and an action that could lead to the breach of the relative peace in Idumuje Ugboko, for publications such as the above under reference to be circulated and cause to mislead the general public to facts which are in the public domain as to the true position of the Ugboko kingship!

“As the TRADITIONAL Prime Minister and 2nd in Command after the departed Obi Albert Nwoko, Let me affirm that there is NO “MONARCH” in idumuje Ugboko since NONE has been installed, crowned and/or presented with a staff of office by Delta State Government or it’s proxies!

“I therefore discountenance the said publications and any others with the same subject matter, noting it to be false, malicious and capable of disrupting the peace of Idumuje Ugboko community!

“Please always crosscheck your facts before going to press, my esteemed colleagues!”

*CHIEF CHRIS OGWU, IYASE of IDUMUJE UGBOKO (Announcer).

In a bid to inculcate good values and virtues among students, the 05 Initiative has taken the campaign on drug abuse and cultism to publiic secondary schools in Delta state.

Wife of the state governor and founder of the 05 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, who flagged off the “Youth On A Mission”, tagged “Save The Future Now” at West End Mixed Secondary School, Asaba said she was desirous to ensure that social vices were eradicated from public schools across the state.

She enjoined students who have found themselves enmeshed in the grip of social vices, especially cultism to renounce their membership and always meditate on the counseling given during the “Youth On A Mission” programme in order for them to encounter God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

Speaking to the students, the Commissioner for Education, Mr. Chiedu Ebie disclosed that peer pressure against acceptable norms and values is evil and advised that students who engaged in evil activities should navigate from them because it is an individual decision.

The Principal of West End Mixed Secondary School, Asaba, Mrs. Felicia Aghwadoma thanked Dame Okowa for the initiative which she said came at the right time, adding that the “Youth On A Mission” programme is a confirmation of her renewed efforts to stamp out cultism in the school.

In his counseling lecture, Pastor Austin Okorodudu explained the ills of cultism, drug abuse, pornography, sex before marriage and bad peer groups to the students and urged them to quickly do away with them and embrace Jesus Christ.

He told them to make up their mind to change from their negative lifestyles and jettison anything that could affect their academic pursuits, saying that “Young people have unknowingly sacrificed their lives on the alter of cultism.”

Also, Pastor Julius Ejedenawe who gave a mind boggling testimony of the effects of engaging in unproductive ventures, such as cultism and drug abuse prayed for the students who appeared willing to shun the tendencies and involvement in the unholy acts.

Highpoint of the event was the unplanned presentation of portrait artworks to the First Lady, Dame Edith Okowa by a Senior Secondary School (SSS 3) student, Andrew Young Okonofua with cheers and admiration.

The Olorogun O’tega Emerhor faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Monday, May 21, 2018, elected Chief Cyril Ogodo as the State Chairman of the Party in Delta State.

Recall that Ogboru/Omo-Agege faction which includes Mrs Mariam Ali, Chief Frank Kokori and A S Mene had on Saturday, May 12, 2018 conducted a parallel congress despite the postponement of the exercise by NWC owing to allegation of inducement.

Rather than hold the congress at the approved venue (College of Education), the parallel congress was held and conducted by the removed Senator Gbenga Obadara-led Delta State Congress Committee at St. Mulumba College in Okpanam near Asaba under tight security where it returned Prophet Jones Erue as State Chairman.

Ogodo, a former vice chairman under Prophet Jones Erue- led executive scored 731 votes, while Obe scored 99 votes with thirteen votes voided. Ogodo, who hails from Sapele in Delta Central Senatorial District, defeated his close rival, Fred Obe, who hails from Ozoro in Isoko North Local Government Area, Delta South.

The State congress which held at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Asaba, is the second State congress in Delta State by the APC within 48 hours, under the instruction of an earlier postponement of the Congress by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party.

The State congress was presided over by the Hon Eugene Odo congress committee and supervised by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with an overwhelming presence of various security agencies on ground to forestall breakdown of law and order.

While declaring Ogodo as the winner of the State Congress and the new Chairman of the Party in Delta, Hon Odo declared that a total of 1439 delegates from the 25 local government areas of the State were accredited, with 13 void votes.

In his comments, the Leader of APC in the State, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor described the Congress as very peaceful and a demonstration of true democracy, adding that after the congress, all aggrieved members will be reached out to in order to prepare for the 2019 political battle.

“The chairmanship position was contested and that is why we are voting Local Government by Local government, that is democracy at work… This is the ‘Unity Train’ but there are a few people who are out there who don’t want to join. Our effort is that, after this congress, we will reach out again to them and that is the role that the National is going to play. We don’t want anybody outside because we have PDP to fight and unless we are out together, it is going to more difficult for us to remove PDP.” Emerhor Stated.

Chief Cyril Ogodo in his acceptance speech, thanked the various leaders from the three senatorial districts who were present at the congress and appreciated the efforts of the congress planning committee for doing a very nice job. Saying, “let us go home and be united so that we will be able to install an APC government in Delta State come 2019. For those who are outside, we will surely bring them inside the house so that in 2019, we will be able to takeover Government House.”

Aside the chairmanship position which was contested, other positions were returned unopposed after a voice confirmation by the delegates.

**Two injured journalists taken to hospital

Government officials, journalists and elated residents of Ogembo (a small farming town in Kenya), were shocked as the Governor of Machakos County, Alfred Mutua; and others plunged into the river while taking a tour of a newly constructed footbridge.

Ogembo residents had waited to have the newly constructed Ogembo Nyakorokoro footbridge inaugurated.

And on Friday (today), the wait was over, as Governor Mutua, aided by the Deputy Governor of Kisii, was on hand to declare the footbridge open.

It turned out that the contractor did a shoddy job, as the footbridge gave way under the weight of dignitaries and villagers who had trooped out to celebrate the august event.

Worse affected was Governor Alfred Mutua, who escaped what would have been death-by-drowning as the bridge collapsed while he was taking a selfie.

Mutua, Kisii Deputy Governor Joash Maangi and their entourage, which included journalists, had been standing on the recently constructed Ogembo Nyakorokoro footbridge in Ogembo area of the county when the bridge caved in, reports The Star.

The governor, the deputy governor, as well as two journalists, fell into the water, before they were rescued.

Mutua and Maangi were pulled out and rushed to Ogembo Hospital in Kisii County in an ambulance.

However, the governor dismissed the report about selfies.

“I have been baptised by River Gucha and now I must build a house in Gucha,” he said, as reported by Radio Citizen.

He reportedly said that he was safe and that he was having lunch at Maangi’s home.

“The bridge caved in after a crowd of those who accompanied us joined us,” he said.

Kisii Communication Director, Maseme Machuka, said the bridge was weak.

The Ogembo post office-Nyakorokoro footbridge was constructed by the Ministry of Public Works as part of the Economic Stimulus Project under the Constituency Development Fund.

“The Governor and DG were unhurt in the incident and they went on to address residents before going for lunch,” he said.

He added that two journalists were taken to Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital with minor injuries.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Ibrahim Idris, has stated that police officers must first surrender themselves to be searched before they search Nigerians, revealing that this is the “procedure.”

Idris said this yesterday during an interactive session with Nigerians on Twitter, through the hashtag #AskThePolice.

“If an officer wants to search you in your house/car, he must first surrender himself for searching. This is the procedure. Ask politely,” he said in response to a question.

When asked if it is legal for police officers to search people’s phones without warrant, the IGP said: “It is not ideal for Officers to search your phones without a complaint. It is not professional.

“Officers have been lectured not to unnecessarily search people’s phones without any case or complaint against the person.”

The Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) says it has started recalling cough syrup containing Codeine from its stakeholders in compliance with Federal Government’s directive.

The Registrar of PCN, Mr Elijah Mohammed, revealed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja.

The Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, had directed PCN, NAFDAC and other regulatory bodies to supervise the recall of codeine from the market.

Mohammed reaffirmed that codeine is an opioid drug similar to morphine which has been approved and accessed over the counter in low doses for relieving patients of symptoms associated with dry cough.

According to the registrar, codeine in such preparation, usually in smaller doses, serves as a cough suppressant and relieves pain associated with the stress of coughing.

“However, due to its inherent properties when used in high doses over a long period, it has been associated with dependence and powerful addictive propensity especially when used for recreational purpose,’’ the registrar said.

Mohammed noted that the council in view of the ministerial directive has carried out enforcement exercise in Ogun, Sokoto and Nasarawa States, adding that same activities were currently going on in Adamawa.

The registrar noted that the council has met with the leadership of the National Association of Patent and Proprietary Medicines Vendors (PPNVs), among other stakeholders, in the pharmaceutical industry in order to facilitate the recall.

Mohammed, who emphasised that Codeine containing cough preparation was not included in the approved medicines list of PPMVs, however urged them to desist from the sale of codeine and other unethical drugs in order to guard against sanctions.

According to him, the council as part of efforts to rid off codeine in the society had also met with the leadership of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) and they made a strong commitment to enforce the recall process as well.

“In continuation of various efforts of implementing the ministerial directives, PCN enforcement team has been strengthened to ensure strict compliance with regulations and extant policies as they relate to the council’s mandate.

“PCN is the agency of the Federal Government established by Cap P17 LFN 2004 and charged with the responsibility of controlling and regulating pharmacy education, training and practice in all aspects and ramifications,’’ the registrar said.

Mohammed, however, appealed to manufacturers, importers and distributors of drugs to display more sense of ethical and moral responsibilities in the production, supply and sales of codeine.

“Economic interest and financial considerations should not override the health implications associated with the abuse of these preparations.

“The health of Nigerians must come first before any other interest,’’ he warned.

The federal government banned the production, importation and sale of codeine in the country on May 1.

The government also directed NAFDAC to stop issuance of permits for the importation of the substance as active pharmaceutical ingredient for cough preparation.

It further directed PCN and NAFDAC to supervise the recall for labeling and audit trailing of all codeine containing cough syrups nationwide and as well ban the sale of codeine containing cough syrup without prescription.

The directive became necessary due to the gross abuse of codeine in the country, it said.

Chelsea defeated Manchester United by 1-0 at Wembley in the FA Cup final after the referee, Michael Oliver gave a penalty to Chelsea in the first half of play.

This was despite United control of the game until the 22nd minute when Eden Hazard was fouled in the 18 yard area.
The best chance Man United had came in the 44th minute when Phil Jones who caused the penalty earlier on headed the ball near post.
Paul Pogba made a brilliant run into the box at the stroke of half time but he was nullified by Chelsea’s defenders.
Jose Mourinho’s men continued from where they stopped as they resumed the second half.
It was United all the way.
They pressurised Chelsea but they did not get the equaliser they desperately needed.
While United were in control, Chelsea relied on quick counter attacks.
Their main ‎man, Hazard, was spear-heading the counter attacks.
In the 72nd minute, Mourinho made a double substitution, bringing on Anthony Martial and Romelu Lukaku for Jesse Lingard and Marcus Rashford‎.
Martial first touch of the ball was a goal attempt but the keeper saved it.
It became a case of Chelsea hanging on to the one goal lead.
With each minute that passed by, it looked like Man United would score but it did not happen.

Despite the Abuja National Industrial Court order directing the Joint Health Workers Union (JOHESU) to end its ongoing strike action, the Tertiary Health Institutions National Consultative Forum (THINCF), has threatened to restrategise and collectively mobilise in support of other members of JOHESU for a mass/street rallies to call attention to the injustice being perpetrated against health workers by the Federal Ministry of Health.

They also threatened that unless the adjusted CONHESS table and other demands put forward by JOHESU are approved, released and implemented with arrears paid, the ongoing strike will neither be suspended nor called off.

The THINCF position was expressed by the National Secretary of THINCF, Comrade Davidson Akilaiya, while briefing the press in Asaba.
Comrade Akilaiya revealed that their recent meeting at Kano appreciated the National leadership of JOHESU for their doggedness and focus in the strike struggle.

He also presented a copy of the six-paragraph communiqué issued at the end of the THINCF 42nd Regular Meetings held at the Secretariat of the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Kano State Chapter, where decision on the mass rally was taken recently.

The communiqué signed by the National Chairman, Comrade Hussain Ahmed and the National Secretary, Comrade Davidson Akilaiya, called for the immediate sack of the Minister of Health, Prof Isaac Adewole, over his alleged overbearing stance in the ongoing strike embarked upon by members of JOHESU, accusing the Health Minister of allegedly displaying impunity, corrupt tendencies and abuse of office.

The communiqué posited that the minister’s sack will act as deterrent to others tarnishing the image of the the present administration.

They averred that the deliberate divisive actions by the Federal Ministry of Health has led to the poor state of Nigeria health sector with attendant consequences.

THINCF also decried the use of security agents by Chef Medical Directors and Medical Directors to harass JOHESU members that are on strike, adding that the action is condemnable, barbaric and inhuman and will not be tolerated.

In the same vain, the meeting expressed dismay over the antagonistic, provocative and self-serving tendencies of members of Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) and MDCAN towards JOHESU members, contending that their legitimate demands from their employers should not be their business as they are not competent to speak for the government.

The Delta State Government has approved an insurance cover of N10 million yearly for personnel of the State Fire Service Command in the event of death, temporal and or permanent disabilities that may occur in the cause of duty.

The State Commissioner, Bureau for Special Duties, Mr Ernest Ogwezzy, disclosed this when he briefed the press on the activities and achievements of his Ministry during the ongoing Ministerial Press briefing by Commissioners on the activities and achievements of their Ministry at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Information, Asaba.

Mr Ogwezzy stated that the agreement between the State Government and the Insurance Firm (Royal Exchange General PLC) was presently being worked out at the Ministry of Justice, Asaba.

He also said that the Fire Service respond to all manners of distress call such as road accidents, someone falling into a pit, and other forms of mishaps demanding the rescue of lives and property said that the Command received 794 calls during the period from 2015 to April 2018 of which 63 were false calls.

The Commissioner said that a total of 794 fire calls were made and said 63 were false calls, saying that property destroyed to fire incidence during the period was estimated at N13 Billion.

He also stated that 24 persons were evacuated dead from the fire incidences, even as he revealed some of the fire outbreak during the period included Anioma Petrol Station at Okpanam Road, Asaba in December 2015 which he said would have been very disastrous if the fire service had not intervened on time; College of Education Co-operative Filling Station in Warri on January 19, 2018; PPMC Refinery, Ekpan on November 21, 2017 and Ubeji tanker fire incident involving some stores and residential buildings on November 24, 2017.

Others, according to the Commissioner, were Robinson Plaza, Okumagba Avenue Warri on September 17, 2017; Beta Glass Factory, Ughelli, on April 6, 2017; Sapele Main Market on October 13, 2017 and Asaba Aluminum Company on February 14, 2017.

He revealed that in order to effectively combat fire incidences in the State, the Bureau would purchase one brand new fire fighting truck and one ambulance yearly to replace the old ones.

The Bureau for Special Commissioner also said that the Bureau would construct a befitting fire service headquarter at Asaba, the State capital as the current headquarters is located at the Old secretariat and this had been very un-conducive for training and effective management of the activities of the Command.

According to Barr Ogwezzy, a lawyer, fire service stations would also be constructed in all the 25 Local Government Areas of the State which do not currently have one and also purchase some speed boats for fire fighting in the riverine areas.

For effective service delivery, the Commissioner stated that the Bureau had renovated 14 Fire Fighting trucks, two water tankers and four Toyota Corolla Cars at the cost of N21 Million approved by the State Government, even as he explained that the State Government also approved the sum of N49 Million to purchase firefighting equipment and accessories.

He stated that the sum of N11, 020, 000 was approved for the construction of Water Hydrant/borehole at the State Fire Service Headquarters, Old Secretariat, Asaba, which had been executed, saying with the execution of this project, the Asaba Fire Service office no longer rely on Private borehole owners for water as was the case before 2017 and that this had assisted the Command to respond promptly to emergency fire calls and even at odd hours.

The Commissioner also listed other projects executed in the Command for effective service delivery to include Renovation of Kwale, Issele-Uku, Agbor and Ogwashi-Uku Fire Service Stations; purchase of uniforms and kits for officials and men of the Delta State Fire Service Command; construction of water hydrant/borehole at the event Centre Complex, Asaba;          refurbishment and repairs of fire trucks/tankers and utility vehicles.

In a bid to ensure the emergence of Dr Cairo Ojougboh as the next Delta State governor come 2019, a formidable pressure group known as ward four political forum has called on Deltans to support, mobilise and create awareness that would actualise the governorship aspiration of Dr Cairo Ojougboh.

Speaking in an enlarged meeting of the forum, the coordinator, Engineer Isioma Obiazi harped on the need for every member of the state to be focused and remain committed to the aspiration of Ojougboh so as to redeem Deltans from the shackle of under development occasioned by bad governance.

He said the emergence of Ojougboh come 2019 would attract massive development in education, health and independent economy that would make the state an economic hob of the nation, adding that the All Progressive Congress aspirant is committed to providing fertile ground that would make Delta an economic footing.

Engr. Isioma Obiazi noted that Deltans needed a credible candidate which, according to him, would not emersh wealth to himself and family alone but would meet the yearnings of the people by creating jobs for the teeming youths, ensure adequate payment of pensioners and assist the less privileged ones in the state.

Engineer Obiazi who is also the managing Director of strollman confectionaries appeal to the people of the state not to allow influence of money to dictate their choice of candidate, noted that what should be in their minds was to remedy the years of locust foisted on the state by PDP led administration.

He reiterated that he has no doubt in his mind that Dr. Cairo Ojougboh would industrialize the state and create jobs that would stimulate economic growth of the state.

The Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General of Delta State, Barr. Peter Mrakpor has revealed that investigations proved that most cultists come from families where parents are cultists.

Mrakpor, who made this revelation while briefing journalists recently during the 2018 Ministerial Press Briefing in Asaba, claimed it is a generational problem, advising that parents must responsibly observe their children closely as they grow, in order to avoid a devastating future bred by cultism.

The Attorney General further decried the incessant increase of these cultists who have now festered their nets into secondary and primary schools, causing havoc to society and bringing untold agony to their families and loved ones.

He furthere said that 63 accused persons were sentenced by the courts in 2017 for various criminal offences, stating that Deltans, especially those within the age brackets of 16-25 go to prisons every day for various degrees of offences.

The Justice Commissioner, however enumerated the statistics as follows: Kidnapping 12, Armed Robbery 29, Murder 17 and Rape and Defilement 5; maintaining that convictions were duly secured on these offences.

He assured that government would continue to do the needful to reduce the spate to the barest minimum, but admonished parents to play more of the roles of parenthood in the lives of their wards.

The Commissioner who recounted the successes achieved by his Ministry within the period under review, especially the technical aspects of law enforcements that were created and reformed to engage more globally acceptable modules for proper prosecution and legal service deliverables; assured Deltans that the government was not sleeping on its oars in ensuring a secure and crime free state.

-By Michael EKOKORUWE:

The Legislative Arm of Isoko South local government area has, passed a vote of confidence on the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) Oleh, CSP Isah Hassan during the legislative session, held at the council secretariat Oleh, Isoko South local government area of Delta State.

The Motion for the vote of confidence moved by Hon. Meeting Edobebe representing Erowa / Umeh ward, was seconded by hon. Wesley Erowo Igbudu from Oleh ward. The leader of Isoko South legislative Arm, Hon. Odho Oghenekome ruled and welcomed the DPO to the house proceedings.

Hon. Odho commended CSP Isah Hassan for effective security policing work in the local government area, noting that the hard work of the DPO overtime has reduced criminal activities in the area. He said the House was motivated to pass the vote of confidence on the DPO due to the prevailing peace and security of lives within the local government area.

Hon. Odho maintained that, the unanimous resolution for the vote of confidence on the DPO was taken during the House previous session, aimed at honoring the police boss for his gallantry and bravery, adding that the motion was moved by Hon. Dickson Osifo and was seconded by Hon. Orava.

The leader of the Legislative Arm also commended Sir Itaiko C. ikpokpo, Chairman Isoko South local government area for his doggedness and mutual cooperation with CSP Isah towards the security of lives and properties in the local government area.

While responding, CSP Isah Hassan commended the legislators for the honor even as he pledged to be more committed to the security of lives and properties of the people of Isoko South.

He said, “the honor is a seed sown today, and will aggravate me towards fighting crime to a halt”. He prayed God for more strength and enabling environment in the fight against criminals in the area.

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriation, Sen. Danjuma Goje, has said that no provision was made in the 2018 Budget for any increase in minimum wage during the year.

Goje made this known while briefing newsmen on Wednesday in Abuja shortly after the passage of the 2018 Appropriation Bill.

He said the failure to capture the wage in the budget may have been because deliberation on the issue had not been concluded by the Executive.

“The government has not brought it. I think that the issue of minimum wage is still under consideration.

“It is still at the committee level with the Executive. When they bring it to us we will look at it; ours is just to make law.

“If the Executive decides to pay workers N100, 000 per day or whatever it is, if they bring the Bill and can justify it, we will pass it.

“When they bring it, we will consider,” he said.

The lawmaker also said that subsidy on oil was not captured in the budget.

He said “the issue of subsidy was raised on the floor.

“It was explained that the Federal Government officially abolished subsidy. So, it is not for us to introduce subsidy.

“If they want to pay subsidy in accordance with the law they have to bring it to us to appropriate.

“If they bring it, we will appropriate. For now, officially there is no subsidy,” he said.

–Courtesy NAN

-By Albert OGRAKA:

Wife of Delta state governor and founder of 05-Initiative, Dame (Mrs.) Edith Okowa has harped on the urgent need for couples to allow God’s blessings manifest in their marriages by strengthening their bond of love for each other.

Dame Okowa made this call at the 2018 edition of Couples Forum, organized by the 05-Initiative for members of the state executive council, legislature, judiciary, elected and political appointees and their spouses on Tuesday, May 15, 2018 at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.

The home building programme tagged, Naked But Not Ashamed, attended by the state governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, was also used to mark the 2018 Internatonal Day of the Family.

The First Lady, who emphasized that the annual Couples Forum has progressively transformed homes, encouraged couples to always appreciate the good values in their spouses to enable them experience overwhelming strength from God, hence everybody will give an account of their dealings on earth.

She thanked her spouse for availing the 05-Initiative of the opportunity to contribute to the spiritual, physical and socio-ecomomic wellbeing of Deltans, especially the less privileged in the society, adding that the feat recorded in families as a result of the prayers and counseling during annual Couples Forum, is encouraging and worthy of emulation.

In the first talk, Pastor Olutomi Sodeinde spoke on the need for couples to ensure that trust, openness and understanding becomes their watchword in marriage, explaining further that fear of the unknown and separation due to social status without recourse to the first love has grossly affected families and homes.

In the second talk, Evangelist Nnamdi Eze said that nakedness with shame is usually associated with sin, guilt, insincerity, unfaithfulness and infidelity in relationship while nakedness without shame allows partners to be financially accountable to themselves, truthful to each other and thrive in openness.

The Couples Forum which was spiced up with praise and worship, hymnal rendition, testimonies and prayers for families, government and people of Delta state and Nigeria was culminatied with an interactive session between Pastor Olutomi Sodeinde,Evangelist Nnamdi Eze alongside their spouses and the couples.

Highpoint of the event was the presentation of gifts to Justice and Mrs. Maidoh and Mr. and Mrs. Umejei respectively.

-By Albert OGRAKA:

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Executive Director (Finance and Administration) at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Bashorun (Hon.) Askia Ogieh JP, has said that the political rallies organized by Delta Political Vanguard (DPV) is a pre-victory celebration for the second coming of the Delta state governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa in 2019.

Bashorun Askia made this disclosure during a brief chat with Blank NEWS Online, shortly after a recent grand rally held at the Oshimili South local government Arcade in Asaba, the Delta state capital.

Recall that the Delta Political Vanguard (DPV) has held similar sensitization rallies for Governor Okowa in virtually all the 25 local government areas of the state with repesentatives drawn from the diverse ethnic nationalities of Delta state.

He insisted that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s performance, through the people oriented policies enshrined in the administration’s SMART agenda, has aleady secured him another tenure and scored him above board, adding that based on equity arrangements, the incumbent governor will get the nod of entire Deltans to return him for an eight year term as executive governor of Delta state.

“Its a pre-victory celebration because we are very sure that we will win. First based on equity, that the two other senatorial districts occpied the seat for eight years when their persons were there. There shouldn’t be an exception.”

The party chieftain said that despite the fact that funds accruing to the state through the federal government allocation and internally generated revenue were in short supply, Governor Okowa has continued to sustain the tempo of good governance by keeping the state afloat.

“When the nation’s economy was in shambles as it were and funds were short in supply, it was so difficult to keep the state afloat but despite all of that, he (Governor Ifeanyi Okowa) brought in his management acumen to have been able to pull us out of the woods and stabilize the state.

“The most important aspect of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa’s leadership qualities is
his performance, especially his performance on roads across the state and other infrastructures in all other critical sectors which earned him the name of “Road Master. It is only necessary for him to come back to consolidate on those gains.”

Bashorun Askia, while assuring Deltans that Governor Okowa was a good product to market, confirmed that his landmark achievements in the state which has earned him local, national and global accolade are unprecedented.

“All parts of Delta state are fully represented in DPV because when we come, all ethnic groups in the state is represented. We bring message from every ethnic group and key leaders are the ones that speak to the people to reassure the people that we are for him. We want all Deltans to stay strong. The DPV itself is all about Okowa and nothing else. He has done well. He is a good product, easy to sell.”

Delta State Government says in other to enhance the personal security and transportation needs of Legal Officers in the state, a budgetary provision of N30 million has been captured in the 2018 budget as car loan to lawyers in the Ministry of Justice.

The attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Peter Mrakpor disclosed this while receiving in audience the newly elected executive members of the State Chapter of Law Officers Association of Nigeria, led by its Chairman, Barr. Thomas Anigara.

According to the Attorney-General, the new head in the 2018 budget which has a provision of N30 million was different from the amount captured for general car loan for civil servants in the state which is domiciled in the Office of the Head of Service.

Peter Mrakpor while explaining the rationale for the special provision, said it was aimed at supporting legal officers to purchase their personal vehicles to ease their movement to court.

He said, owing to the sensitive nature of their work which involves carrying of
bulky sensitive case files and their personal safety, the Governor approved a head as car loan special provision for lawyers.

While congratulating the new executives of the Law Officers Association for a peaceful election and transition, the Justice Commissioner charged legal officers in the state to imbibe personal developmental culture and comply with the standard behavior expected
of them as legal practitioners and that of the civil service.

He debunked the rumour that he was a tribalist as a result of certain decisions he took regarding the posting of some senior officers to some Agencies of Government as Executive Secretaries. He explained that the decision was in the best interest of the Ministry and the beneficiaries as according to him, the status of the three Executive
Secretaries appointed from the Ministry was equivalent to that of amPermanent Secretary. He promised to deploy some legal officers those Agencies for the establishment of their Legal Departments.

On welfare of legal Officers and Staff, the Attorney-General maintained that he was irrevocably committed to staff’s welfare as the Ministry has worked out modalities to disburse enhanced monthly imprest to all Departments and Zonal Offices for effective service delivery while the issue of payment of all backlog of claims is
receiving priority attention.

He pleaded with staff who were yet to collect their Permanent Voters Card to so without delay even as he promised to increase the number of participants from the Ministry to the annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association.

Earlier, the newly elected Chairman of the Law Officers Association of Nigeria, Delta State Chapter, Barr. Thomas Anigara told the Justice Commissioner that the visit was to formally introduce Members of the new executive of the body to him.

Thomas Anigara who presented various issues affecting Legal Officers ranging from training and retraining, and general welfare of his members to the Attorney-General, pledged their cooperation and loyalty to the Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa’s led administration.

The LOAN Chairman also expressed his willingness to partner with the Attorney-General for the mutual benefits and good of both lawyers and the Ministry.

One of seven major Democratic contenders in Maryland’s gubernatorial race, Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz, died early Thursday morning after suffering from cardiac arrest, authorities said.

Kevin Kamenetz, 60, a two-term Baltimore County executive, husband and father of two sons, was at his Owings Mills home around 2 a.m. when he woke up not feeling well. He drove with his wife to a nearby volunteer fire station where he received emergency treatment before being transported to a hospital. He was pronounced dead shortly after, Baltimore County Fire Department spokeswoman Elise Armacost said at a news conference.

The two-term county executive is survived by his wife, Jill Kamenetz, and their two teenage sons.

Kevin Kamenetz, who was one of several candidates running for the Democratic nomination to be Maryland’s governor, died on Thursday morning at the age of 60.
Armacost, who knew Kamenetz for almost 25 years, said his sudden death has sent shockwaves through county government.

“By all accounts, he appeared to be in excellent health. He went to a doctor regularly,” she said at the news conference, according to The Associated Press. “This was not a person who had unhealthy habits.”

It’s not clear why Kamenetz drove to a firehouse as opposed to calling 911, said Dr. Gail Cunningham, senior vice president of medical affairs at University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, where he was treated.

“Obviously with these conditions, time is everything, but I don’t know for how long he was suffering from chest pains or symptoms before he chose to do that,” she said at the news conference, adding that people experiencing symptoms of a heart attack should call 911. In Kamenetz’s case, she said, it was determined he suffered from ventricular fibrillation, a life-threatening heart arrhythmia that is common among heart attack victims.

Kamenetz’s running mate, Montgomery County Councilmember Valerie Ervin, said she’s heartbroken by the news.

“Like so many, I am shocked and heartbroken by this sudden and unexpected loss. I want to thank those across Maryland for their outpouring of support, sympathy, and gratitude during this difficult time,” she said in a statement posted to their campaign’s website.

“Kevin was first and foremost a loving husband to his wife Jill and a proud father to Karson and Dylan. And he was a dedicated, bold leader who served the people of Baltimore County for over 20 years. I have been honored to call him a friend and partner. Today all of Maryland mourns with his family, friends, and loved ones,” she said.

Republican Gov. Larry Hogan, whom Kamenetz hoped to face off against in the November election, ordered the state flags to be flown at half-staff. He also expressed his condolences on Twitter.

Kamenetz’s fellow Democrats also spoke out about their heartbreak over his loss, as well as about his character and years of work as a public servant.