Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Nelson Agbajor:
As part of efforts to appreciate the good gesture of protecting lives and property of the people, coupled with the recent free medical outreach conducted by men of the 19 Battalion of the Nigeria Army, Koko, during the Operation Crocodile Smile II, Ijaw Communities in the riverine area have paid a “Thank You Visit” to the Commanding Officer of the 19 Battalion, Lt. Col. Ma’aji Mohammed in Koko, headquarters of Warri North local government area of Delta state.
The communities, represented by the Traditional Council of Chiefs from Egbama Kingdom, expressed gratitude to the Nigeria Army for the role they played in ensuing that peace is restored to Egbema Kingdom, especially Ajakurama the heritage headquaters of Ijaw Nation.
Speaking on behalf of the Communities, Chief Adele Jombai said that the various communities in Egbema Kingdom are very happy with the Nigeria Army, for all that the security agency having been doing to ensure peace and security in the creeks of the Delta.
His words: “Our King has sent us to say a big thank you to the Nigeria Army for securing our lives and properties during the recent Operation Crocodile Smile II”, adding that the operation has put an end to the activities of some unscrupulous elements and bad eggs terrorising riverine communities.
On his part, Chief Semion Igbedikeme, Personal Assistant to the Pere of Egbema, asserted that his joy knows no bounds for the wonderful job done by the Army in Egbema Kingdom by the 19 Battalion during Operation Crocodile Smile. He noted that the soldiers did a proffessional job as no life was lost, no property destroyed during the operations .
His words: “The Egbema kingdom has unanimously agreed to work with the Army to sustain the relative peace that have been brought to us, we also want to say that during the exercise, no live was lost, no property destroyed as being speculated, we urged all the people to disregard such rumor and also advise our children to turn a new leaf as the Army will not rest until they fetch out the bad eggs from and within Egbama Kingdom “.
Responding, the Commanding Officer, 19. Battalion Koko, Lt. Col. Maaji Mohammed, thanked the Ijaw community Chiefs for the visit.
The CO in a brierf remark, thanked the Egbema Kingdom for the assistance given to the Army to carry out their constitutional duties in the area.
He noted that, the Nigeria Army is a professional force and urged the leaders to preach peace and advise their children and the youths against illegal activities, such as kidnapping, Oil bunkering, pipeline vandalism, cultism and other social vices that is capable of breaching the peace in the riverine communities.
The CO reiterated that the Army has successfully completed the Operation Crocodile Smile II, noting that no life was lost and called for more co-orporation from the Communities to sustain the peace in the area.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
Concrete facts have emerged on the achievements of the Delta State Government that made it possible for the state to be placed on the 2nd position behind Lagos State among the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The National Competitiveness Council of Nigeria (NCCN), in partnership with Ford Foundation and Tony Elumelu Foundation, recently released the Sub-National Index Overall State Ranking for 2017 which saw Delta closely occupying the 2nd slot on the table behind Lagos State.
Addressing a press conference in Asaba on Tuesday at the Ministry of Information conference hall, the state Commissioner for Economic Planning, Dr. Kingsley Emu, disclosed that four critical parameters were used by the independent body to arrive at its final decision.
He revealed that Delta State placed tops on Human Capital Overall Ranking (Education, Health, Migration and Gender Equality), 5th on Infrastructure Overall Ranking (Roads, Electricity, Airport, Telecom, Waste and Water), 23rd on Economy Overall Ranking (Access to Finance, State Finances, Business Sophistication and Tax), and 7th on Institution Overall Ranking (Security, Transparency, Justice, Corruption and Permits).
The Economic Planning Commissioner, who was accompanied by his Information counterpart, Mr. Patrick Ukah, stated that a total contract sum of N170,412,772,742.90 has so far been awarded by the state government on the construction of 149 roads of 764.39 kilometres and 225.59 kilometres of drains.
Dr. Emu stated that N37,637,333,366.09 is for 49 roads of 252.12 kilometres and 55.31 kilometres of drains in Delta Central, N51,458,906,454.84 for 65 roads of 325.43 kilometres and 126.02 kilometres of drains in Delta North, and N81,316,532,921.97 for 35 roads totaling 186.84 kilometres and 44.26 kilometres of drains in Delta South.
He specifically said that a total of 67.58 kilometres of roads and 34.43 kilometres of drains are currently ongoing in the riverine areas of the state with a view to linking the dwellers there with people living upland for both economic and social integration.
Some of them are the Trans Warri- Ode-Itsekiri Access Roads Phase 1: Section 1 Ubeji to Ode-Itsekiri Roundabout with Spurs to Ijala Ugbodede, Orugbo and Ajigba – Inorin – Usele Communities and Section 11(iii) Ode-Itsekiri Internal Roads, construction of Oporoza Palace Road in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South West Local Government Area and the construction of Burutu Township Roads in Burutu Local Government Area.
Others are rehabilitation/widening of Access Road to Beneku community, Ndokwa East, main axial road in Okerenkoko, Warri South West, construction of internal roads in Ikpide-Irri community, Isoko South, construction of rigid concrete pavement at Obitobon-Elolo-Ajaokurogbo-Orubu Road, Ogidigben, Warri South West, construction of Okenrekoko township roads (Phase 11), Warri South West and the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of the Obutobo1-Obutobo11-Sokebolou-Yokri road, Burutu Local Government Area.
Dr. Emu revealed that the state has a total of 1,121 public primary schools and 463 public secondary schools with a total population of 443,813 and 326,004 respectively, adding that the state also has 4882 students and 1,094 trainees in its 6 Technical Colleges and 4 Vocational Centres respectively.
He further said that so much work, in terms of physical structures such as new classrooms, renovation of existing ones and provision of furniture, are ongoing at a high scale as well as content issues.
The Economic Planning Commissioner noted with joy that what is outstanding is that all these are being done in a recession and at a time our resources as a state are at the lowest ebb arising from the Niger Delta crisis as evident in our rating on Economy within the time under review.
The Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, in his contribution, attributed all the lofty achievements of the Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa led administration in the state to the prudent management of available resources by the Governor.
Mr. Ukah said that the ranking did not come to him as a surprise as Governor Okowa is determined more than ever before to take the state to greater heights in order to earn more recognitions from other reputable independent organisations across the country and beyond.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
Delta State Acting Governor, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro has charged Nigerian women to emulate Late Dr. Mrs. Maryam Babangida in the quest to uplift women especially the downtrodden in the society.
Speaking at the Dr Maryam Ndidi Babangida Inaugural Memorial Lecture on Saturday, November 04, 2017 in Asaba, Barr Otuaro who was represented by Mr. Patrick Ukah, Commissioner For Information, said that women in public office should use their offices to ensure the empowerment and upliftment of women.
The Memorial Lecture which drew the crème de la crème of the society was chaired by the Omu of Anioma, Obi Martha Dunkwu, while former President, General Ibrahim Babangida, husband of Late Maryam was represented by Engr.Emmanuel Eboh.
“We are gathered here today in honour of a trail blazer, an icon, a pace setter and great woman, Dr. Mrs. Mariam Ndidi Babangida, a truly outstanding Deltan of whom all of us are immensely proud, it is certainly no exaggeration to describe this distinguished woman as one of the most eminent personalities of contemporary Nigeria. She earned her reputation by her consistent commitment to the upliftment of the status of Nigerian women. She was a virtuous woman, a supportive wife, an exemplary mother, a role model and a visionary leader”, the Acting Governor said.
He described the theme of the lecture “The Nigerian Woman, During and After The Better Life Programme for Rural Women: A Salute to Her Excellency, Late Dr. Mrs. Mariam Ndidi Babangida” as “ very appropriate at this point of our national life, especially as we continue to face the challenges of women empowerment, for the most part, she used the Better Life platform to generate positive public dialogue about the status of women generally”.
Barr Otuaro said government was committed to women empowerment through Agriculture and skills acquisition, pointing out that although the results were encouraging, but there was room to fine tune the processes.
The inaugural lecture series provided a platform for stakeholders to access the impact of women empowerment in the contemporary African society and the way forward in economic emancipation for rural women.
In their various remarks the convener of the lecture series, and Dr. Mrs. Babangida’s elder brother, Ambassador Leo Okogwu as well as the representative of former Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida, lamented over the failure of successive governments to consolidate on the vision of the Better Life for Rural Women Programme.
Chairman of the occasion and Omu of Anioma, Obi Martha Dunkwu said traditional rulers should speak out against the challenges facing the unity and peace of the nation, and advised the organisers of the lecture series to rotate it round the country.
Dr. Fati Ibrahim delivered the memorial lecture on the life and times of Dr. Mariam Ndidi Babangida.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Dr. Chris Okobah, Vice President/National Leader of Legacy Group briefing the press in Asaba
We are a non-governmental, political pressure group. And just as our name suggests, our focus is to monitor developments and evaluate legacies of our leaders especially here in Delta State, which is our primary constituency with a view to ensuring that our people, that is the electorate get value from those who have been saddled with the responsibility of leading them.
We also take out time to monitor and x-ray the utterances and actions of other stakeholders with a view to evaluating the extent to which they promote or hinder the progress of those in authority.
It is on account of such evaluation that we consider the recent attacks in the media on the person and office of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa by a one time member of his party the PDP, Dr Cairo Ojougbo as self-serving and unpatriotic.
As a group, we are not against people or groups asking government to be accountable to the people, neither do we believe that those in authority are infallible; however, such calls must be done in accordance with acceptable democratic norms and must be borne out of genuine love for the development and growth of the society.
It is on this premise that we are challenging the issues raised by Dr Ojougbo who until recently was in the same party with the Governor before he jumped into the APC. At this juncture, we must admit that it is not our business to question the tendencies of individuals who jump from one party to the other without respect for political ideology. But we believe we reserve the right to scrutinise their actions and utterances especially when such tend to politicize the policies and programmes of the government to the detriment of the electorate.
Those of us in the Legacy Group have taken time to investigate the coroversy surrounding the deployment of Paris Club Refund across States and we found the Government of Delta State to have scored high.
I am sure that most of you here must have read in the newspapers the total sum the State got on account of the Paris Club Refund in the three tranches and how it was distributed. Hence, we consider the alarm raised by Dr Ojougbo in which he alleged improper management of the Paris Club refund as a non-issue. We believe the reason Dr Ojougbo raised this false alarm is to distract the Government and that is our concern as a group focussed on the overall development of the people.
Dr Ojougbo’s allegation of a blank budget is another issue we consider unreasaonble, unrealistic and unpatriotic. Apart from the fact that a blank budget cannot exist otherwise it is not a budget, every well-meaning person can attest to the fact that the Delta State 2017 budget was publicly presented in November 2016, passed in February 2017 and signed into law in March 2017 as reported in various media. The sectoral allocations in that budget were also well captured in those media reports so the views of Dr Ojougbo in this regard appears self-serving and not targeted at promoting peace and tranquillity, which is the bedrock of development. Again that is why we are concerned!!
In the midst of economic recession and 16 months damage to the Forcados Export Trunk Pipeline, Governor Okowa has managed to fare well in the area of Road construction, Schools Rehabilitation, Job Creation and Urban Renewal and to this end, we will confront anybody who will not take steps to encourage the Government to consolidate on these modest achievements. Here again, the cry of nothing is happening by Dr Ojougbo cannot be said to be a reward for the administration’s hard work. You can still see why we are concerned!!!
Beyond what we have read in the media and the facts we gleaned from the different Town Hall Meetings, we have also independently ascertained that inspite of the challenges of economic recession, the Senator Okowa-led administration has completed the construction of 59 roads projects covering over 612 km including 300 km of concrete-lined drains. Another 79 roads are currently under construction and, in line with his objective of urban renewal and rural development, the administration has commenced construction of road projects in areas hitherto not attended to, particularly in the creeks such as Okerenkoko, Ogulagha, Burutu, Sokebulou among others.
It is obvious that such efforts require sufficient amount of courage, determination, fairness, equity and a deep sense of patriotism to undertake.
Another reason why we believe Governor Okowa needs encouragement and not attacks is the bold step taken to reconstruct the State-owned technical colleges in Agbor, Ofagbe, Sapele, Utagba-Ogbe, Otor-Ogor, and Issele-Uku. This gesture, no doubt, has helped infused life into technical and vocational education.
Under the Job Creation Scheme, the administration has trained and established 2,324 hitherto unemployed graduates and school leavers in their choice enterprises. Many of these enterprises are not only doing well, they are providing employment for other Deltans. Some of them are now beginning to train others as well. In addition, over 4,000 youths have been trained in vocational centres in the States. The administration’s introduction of the Graduate Employment Enhancement Programme (GEEP), which is designed to cater for unemployed graduates, has also transformed the lives of a number of unemployed graduates in the state.
Beyond our knowledge of what the administration of Governor Okowa is doing to add value to Deltans, we also tried to find out why Dr Ojougbo is not seeing the positive efforts of the administration. Our investigation revealed that he had asked the Governor to allow him be in control of his Ika South Local Government in terms of elective offices and appointments, without adherence to democratic principles. But the Governor would not accede to such an undemocratic request. Rather, he encouraged him to follow democratic principles, which obviously didn’t go down well with Dr Ojougboh.
Again, Dr Ojougbo is said to have undemocratically wanted to retain his seat as National Vice Chairman of the PDP, South South. But in line with the principles of fairness, equity and justice, all the major stakeholders of the PDP in Delta State zoned that position to another Senatorial District other than the Senatorial District of the Governor where Dr Ojougbo belongs. If indeed these are the sources of his anger, again we believe it is unfortunate and, yes, self-serving.
We believe that people must play politics but not to the extent of becoming a clog in the wheel of progress. We urge politicians not to allow their personal interests to override public interests.
For the avoidance of doubt, we expect citizens to criticise the government when the need arises because it is an essential ingredient of democracy; but we hold the view that such criticisms must find a reasonable space on the track of objectivity and patriotism.
So far, we are convinced that Dr Cairo Ojougbo has not been objective, as there seems not to be any element of patriotism in his outbursts.
Deltans should rise up in one accord and reject falsehood and propaganda.
Dr. Chris Okobah
Vice President/National Leader
Legacy Group
An aspirant of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Joy Scot Adu-Eke, has been democratically affirmed as the winner of Uzere PDP Ward 04B Councillorship Primaries held at the Party Secretariat in Isoko South local government area of Delta state.
The democratic affirmation which took place at the PDP Uzere Ward 04B on Friday, October 20, 2017 was done in compliance with the directive of the Barr. Kingsley Esiso led PDP, Delta state chapter.
The party primary election was officially conducted by the state Assistant Legal Adviser of the PDP, Barr. Kessington Okolo (Returning Officer) to the admiration of the people.
During the election, Barr. Kessington Okolo praised the peaceful conduct of the election and encouraged all political parties to abide by the rules of the game by ensuring that the general election is rancour free.
The supporters of Joy Scot Adu-Eke, comprising of elders, women and youths came out in total compliance and in large number to support the candidate of their choice to the admiration of the party leadership at the local government level.
They entire Uzere people, aside political party affiliations, expressed satisfaction with the person of Joy Scot Adu-Eke whom they say will give them positive and effective representation at the council level based on her good antecedents.
The political feat recorded by the people has also given strength to the party’s acclamation of giving the women folk the opportunity to serve their people.
Recall that recently, the state party chairman, Barr. Kingsley Esiso declared that the party will encourage women participation in service delivery at the grassroots level.
While addressing the PDP supporters at the party secretariat , Joy Scot Adu-Eke, promised to work for the interest of the people and the party when elected as Councillor representing Uzere, adding that she will attract people oriented projects to the area.
She called on all the leaders and members of the party in the area to rally round her in order to reposition and stabilize the PDP to win all the forthcoming elections at the ward, local government, state and national levels respectively.
Some party leaders and chieftains in the area, including Hon.Godspower Obaro said that the acceptance of Joy Scot Adu-Eke as councillorship candidate for Uzere Ward 04B was the overwhelming decision of the people. They pledged to give her the needed support and enjoined other aspirants to accept her candidature and work together for the interest of the party and the growth of the area.
Non-party members like the President General of Isoko Development Union ((IDU), High Chief Iduh Amadhe applauded the nomination process and peaceful conduct of the election which rancour free for the common good of the people.
He advised the party members to continue to do things peacefully the way they have done and move the party forward. He also commended the opponents of Joy Scot Adu-Eke for accepting the result and urged her to imbibe the spirit of no victor, no vanquished.
Meanwhile, aspirants from other political parties in the ara have promised to decline from contesting during the January 6 local government election because they believe that Joy Scot Adu-Eke will provide the needed representation for the people.
The recent open support for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Councillorship Candidate, Joy Scot Adu-Eke for Uzere Ward 04B in Isoko South local government area of Delta state has further confirmed the acceptability of the leadership role and status of Bashorun Askia Ogieh (FCNA, CrFA) in the political life of the Isoko people.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, on Saturday extolled the virtues of his predecessor in office, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, describing him as an embodiment of the ideals of diligence, commitment and exemplary patriotism.
Okowa in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Charles Aniagwu, congratulated Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan as he turns 63 years on Sunday 22nd October, 2017.
While praying God Almighty to continue to bless the former Governor with good health and long life, Okowa said; “It is with profound joy that I write on behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, to express very warm felicitations to you on your 63rd birthday anniversary.
“Your contributions to the peace and development of Delta State remains indelible in the hearts of Deltans, especially to the families and children who benefited from the laudable programmes you initiated during your administration”.
“As an administration, we have complemented the free maternal health care and under-5 child care your administration pioneered by introducing the Contributory Health Commission in the state with a view to making health care affordable to Deltans and fast track our goal of attaining universal health coverage”.
“I join your family, friends and well-wishers to thank Almighty God for His continued guidance, protection and provision for you in the past 63 years of a remarkable life filled with monumental achievements and dedicated service to God and country.” the Governor wrote.
In a similar development, Governor Okowa also congratulated former Vice President of Nigeria and Elder Statesman, Dr Alex Ekwueme as he clocks 85 years on Saturday, October 21, 2017.
A statement issued his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, said: “On the occasion of your 85th birthday anniversary on Saturday 21st of October, 2017, I write to heartily rejoice with you and your family on behalf of the Government and people of Delta State.
“In the past 85 years of a life of outstanding accomplishment and great personal fulfillment, you have not only served our nation at the highest levels with an uncommon sense of patriotism and unwavering dedication, you have also brought great pride to Nigeria through your exemplary and pioneering efforts as the Doyen of Architecture in Nigeria.”
Governor Okowa noted that Nigeria again tapped from Ekwueme’s wealth of experience when he served meritoriously as first elected Vice President between 1979-1983.
“I join your family, friends and well-wishers to thank Almighty God for your life and to pray that He continues to bless you with robust health and imbue you with His continued guidance, protection, and enduring provision.”
The Governor wished Dr Ekwueme “a very well deserved happy birthday”.
Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, presenting the 2018 appropriation bill to the State House of Assembly on Thursday, October 19, 2017 in Asaba.
DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has presented a budget estimate of N298.078 Billion for the 2018 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly, assuring of his administration’s commitment to “build a State anchored on inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.”
Presenting the budget estimate on Thursday, October 19, 2017 at the House of Assembly chambers, Governor Okowa disclosed that the “amount comprises the sum of N147.5bn or 49.48 per cent for recurrent expenditure, and N150.5 or 50.52 per cent for capital expenditure.”
While presenting a review of the 2017 budget performance from January to September, Governor Okowa said the expenditure profile “shows that the total sum of N127.0 Billion was spent; out of which, the sum of N104.2 Bilion was incurred on recurrent items, as against a proportionate approved budget of N118.5 Billion, representing a budget performance of 87.97 per cent.”
“The 2018 budget proposal shows an increase of N3.62 Billion or 1.21 per cent, compared to the 2017 approved budget of N294.4Billion,” the Governor said, adding that it was expected that the sum of N71.3 Billion would be generated internally (IGR), Statutory allocation including Mineral Revenue Derivable – N178.1 Billion, Value Added Tax – N10.7 Billion, other capital receipts – N37.8 Billion totalling N298.0878 Billion to finance the projected budget for 2018 fiscal year.
From the budget proposal, road infrastructure will gulp the greater chunk of the money as Governor Okowa asserted, “in line with our growth aspirations, the sum of N49.3 Billion is earmarked in the proposed 2018 budget to sustain the current momentum in road infrastructure, including drains,” followed by the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) which will take N28 Billion from the presented budget for the 2018 fiscal year.
Christened, “Budget of Hope and Consolidation,” Governor Okowa said that more than N18 Billion would be spent on education sub-sector for capital projects in 2018, revealing that “Delta State has 1,021 primary and 469 secondary schools with 443,813 pupils and 332,760 students rrespectivel.”
The Governor further disclosed that his administration has earmarked the sum of 6.6 billion naira to consolidate the ongoing rehabilitation of the health facilities while the sum of N1.2 Billion is set aside to augment the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, especially the Under-5 and Free Maternal Health Care Scheme.
On the issue of environment, Governor Okowa that his administration has proposed the sum of N2.2 billion for the Ministries of Environment and Urban Renewal in the proposed 2018 capital budget.
For the Delta State Capital Territory Development, he said the sum of N3 Billion has been proposed for the rapid development of the Delta State Capital Territory in line with the Master Plan of the State Capital territory.
Earlier, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori who presided at the plenary attended by the legislators and former Speakers of the legislature called for a motion to admit the Governor and his aides into the chamber.
The Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Friday Osanebi moved the vote of thanks and commended Governor Okowa for his steadfastness in budget execution, reiterating that the Governor presented the 2017 Appropriation Bill which passed through due process before it was signed into law and the Governor as a law abiding citizen implemented the budget despite the economic situation of the country.
Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (middle); Speaker, Delta State House of Assemley, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori (2nd left); his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Friday Osanebi (2nd right); Majority Leader, Hon. Tim Owhefere (right) and Hon. Pat Ajudua, during the presentation ceremony at the Cambers of the State House of Assembly in Asaba.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
The people of Ajakurama, Gelegele and Egbema kingdom in Warri North Local government Area of Delta State are celebrating following the total take over of the communities by the Operation crocodile smile phase 11 officers who stormed the area early hours of today that led to many militants fleeing from the communities.
Eye witnesses told our correspondent that “militants flee the town when army stormed the area with large troops which could best be described as the worst for the militants in the recent times. This is because attempt by the army to carry out Operations in the area has not yielded any desired result”.
It was revealed that Ajakurama community often referred to as central havoc in Warri North local government was completely combed by the men of operation crocodile smile and all hide out of criminals destroyed. It was learnt that renown militants like Felix Odowu, Osuwo Osiya and notorious gang leader popularly known as Double Prince have all fled to the neighboring Ondo state following a hot chase by the soldiers.
Investigation also gathered that one Blessing Magic the allegedly most blood thirst vampire who led the Lagos attack that took place at Ikorodu river where many soldiers lost their lives has also fled their camp when the operation crocodile smile dieting soldiers stormed the area in the operation.
It was further gathered that One Godwin Namu, a priest in charge of the militants shrine called “Egbesu” has allegedly ran to Abere and Okomu forest in Edo State while Army the has vowed to fish them out.
At the time reporters visited the area today, one of the priests shrine has been burnt with some militant’s houses by soldiers and there was free movement of people as normal business was on.
DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has ordered that contract for the Construction of Udu Harbour Market be revoked as the contractor had failed to prove its competence.
The Governor gave the order on Wednesday, October 18, 2017 during a Town Hall meeting he had with the people of Udu, Udu Local Government Area of Delta State.
According to the Governor, the contractor handling the project has been adequately mobilised to site but, has failed to deliver the project to expectations.
While urging the office of the Secretary to the Delta State Government to complete the process of revocation of the contract within two weeks for the project to be reawarded to a more competent contractor for execution, Governor Okowa asserted, “when I make any pronouncement during town hall meetings, it should be implemented immediately.”
The Governor who stated that his administration was committed to completing the Udu Harbour Market and execute more projects in the area, urged the people to be peaceful as “no contractor is ready to work in crisis zones.”
He specifically urged the people of Aladja and Ogbe-Ijaw to avoid any form of hostility but, have respect for their traditional rulers for peace to reign in the area which is the panacea for developmental projects to take place.
At the hall meeting, the Governor took time to enumerate the successes of his administration in the area of job and wealth creation, the education sector, provision of infrastructure, among others, assuring that his administration will not relent in executing programmes that will better the lives of Deltans.
From Udu, Governor Okowa moved to Orerokpe where he commended the people of Okpe Local Government Area for their peaceful dispositions which has led to his administration successfully executing projects in the area.
Chairman of Udu Local Government Council and that of Okpe Local Government Council, Chief Solomon Kpomah and Prince Godwin Ejinyere in their separate addresses during the town hall meeting in their respective local government areas, listed series of projects executed in their area.
They commended the Governor for the effective management of resources which has benefited a lot of Deltans.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –*Courtesy News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
: Buhari, left, with the governors in Abuja
President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja expressed concern on the growing complaints and agitations by workers in states over unpaid salaries and allowances, in spite of interventions by the Federal Government.
“How can anyone go to bed and sleep soundly when workers have not been paid their salaries for months”, Buhari told a meeting of select governors under the aegis of the Governors’ Forum in Abuja.
The governors were led by the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Abdul’Aziz Abubakar Yari.
President Buhari at the meeting at State House said the plight of workers in the states need urgent attention as many could barely survive.
“I actually wonder how the workers feed their families, pay their rents and even pay school fees for their children,’’ he said.
The President told the governors that two out of the three-pronged focus of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to secure the country and fight corruption had received some commendable reviews by the people, noting that the challenge in payment of salaries in states had taken a toll on the people.
“God has been merciful in hearing the prayers of his servants so the rainy season has been good, you can ask the Kebbi State governor on this, and our enormous food importation bill has gone down.’’
President Buhari said the Federal Government and state executives would need to work closer together to ameliorate the situation of workers across the country.
The President said he had instructed all government agencies to comply with the Treasury Single Account (TSA) in order to ensure more transparency and prudence in accounting for the revenues of the government and the sharing of entitlements with states.
In his remark, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum said the various interventions by the Federal Government, which include the bailouts, were judiciously utilized by the states, stressing that the governors inherited backlog of unpaid salaries and huge debts portfolios on assumption of office.
“We are concerned with the situation in our states, and we are trying our best to manage the resources,’’ he said.
Yari noted that the bailout funds, and part of the fallout from the London-Paris Club that had been received by the states, were properly expended to alleviate the plight of workers, but more had to be done.
The NGF chairman commended the efforts of the President in improving the economy, assuring that the states would continue working with the Federal Government to improve the livelihood of workers and all Nigerians.
Governors of Ondo, Bauchi, Jigawa, Kwara, Akwa Ibom and the Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State were part of the visit to the President.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) By Albert OGRAKA–: Delta State Governor Sen Ifeanyi Okowa accompanied by his Deputy Barr Kingsley Otuaro and Orodje of Okpe kingdom, HRM Orhue I, Commission Ultra Modern Market At Orerokpe, Okpe Local Government Area Of Delta State.
Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has assured Deltans of his commitment to deliver on his campaign promises, as he commenced the second phase of the Town Hall meetings with Deltans, inspection of ongoing projects and commissioning of completed projects executed by his administration in his fisrt tenure in office.
Governor Okowa, who stated this during a courtesy visit on the Orodje of Okpe kingdom, HRM Orhue I, said that his administration is determned to execute people oriented projects, despite the constraints faced by the state government as a result of the poor economic situation in the country.
Receiving the governor in his palace at Orerokpe, the Orodje of Okpe kingdom, HRM Orhue I, expressed delight on the development prowess and activities of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, saying that the people of Okpe kingdom and all Deltans were proud of him for excuting laudable projects across the state.
While commissioning the Orerokpe modern market, the governor emphasized on the need to properly put the market to effective use, assuring that such markets will be replicated in Ozoro, Isoko North; Burutu, Burutu local government and Oghara in Ethiope West.
He disclosed that the state government has handed over the Orerokpe modern market to the local government council at no cost, urging the council to manage the market with clearance from the Orodje of Okpe to ensure fair distribution of the stalls at reasonable cost.
The governor also commissioned the Aragba/Okobia/Owhetolor/Okuagbude/Warri-Sapele Junction and Okuovo-Kpokpogri-Opuraja/Iriama junction road in Okpe local government area
Earlier, during the commissining of the reconstructed Ovwian main road, off Udu road in Udu local government area on Tuesday, October 17, 2017, the governor reassured the people that the state government will continue to provide more inrastructure projects within available resources.
He enjoined the people, especially the youths and women, to ensure that peace is sustained in the local government to attract more democracy dividends, as his administration is poised to deliver on campaign promises.
The Commissioner for works, Mr. James Auguoye said the 3.1 kilometre reconstruction job with 1,100 metres drain on both sides was awarded to an indigenous construction firm on March 3, 2017 and completed within six months.
On Wednesday, October 18, 2017, the governor is expected to inspect the YAGEP fish farm cluster with 154 fish ponds in Ugbokodo-Okpe before proceeding for the Town Hall meetings with persons drawn from different groups in the state at the Otor-Udu Hall, Otor-Udu in Udu local government and Edion Hall, Orerokpe in Okpe local government areas respectively where he will give his score card and allow people to react and ask questions.
The 36 states shared N173.8 billion from the Federation Account in September from the distributable revenue generated for the month.
The breakdown was obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in a report from the office of the Accountant-General of the Federation in Abuja.
The funds are usually shared the proceeding month of generation.
For example, revenue generated in January is shared in February; thus, the revenue shared was actually generated in August and shared in September.
The key agencies that remit funds into the federation account are the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), the Federal Inland Revenue Service and the Nigerian Customs Service.
The last Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting in September, federal, states and local governments shared N637.7 billion.
The report showed that the revenue distributed included the Gross Statutory revenue, Value Added Tax, exchange gains and Petroleum Profit Tax.
The report showed that before distribution to the states, their liabilities were first deducted.
The liabilities include a total external debt of N2.67 billion, contractual obligations of N9.58 billion and other deductions amounting to N18.2 billion.
The report showed that the other deductions covered National Water Rehabilitation Projects, National Agricultural Technology Support, Salary bailout, Payment for Fertilizer, State Water Supply Project, State Agriculture Project and National Fadama Project.
Below are what the 36 states got after all deductions were made.
Abia N4.04 billlion; Adamawa N4.02 billion; Cross River N2.85billion; Ekiti N2.94 billion; Edo N4.5 billion; Kaduna State N5.4billion; Kano State N6.8 billion; Lagos State N8.8 billion; RiversN12.45 billion and Zamfara, N3.05 billion.
Delta got N14.2 billion; Anambra N4.3 billion; Benue N4.2 billion; Borno N4.9 billion; Ebonyi N3.76 billion; Enugu State N4.07 billion; Gombe State N3.39 billion; Nassarawa State N3.74 billion; ImoN3.96 billion and Kogi N4.24 billion.
Yobe got N4.15 billion; Taraba, N3.6 billion; Sokoto State N4.1billion; Plateau N3.38 billion; Oyo State N4.8 billion; Osun N1.6billion; Ondo State N4.64 billion; Ogun N3.04 billion; Niger N4.61billion and Kebbi N4.26 billion.
Similarly, Katsina State got N4.66 billion; Bayelsa N10.88 billion; Bauchi State N4.34 billion; Jigawa N4.67 billion; Akwa Ibom N12.94billion and Kwara N3.53 billion.
The report also showed that the Federal Capital Territory got N5.74billion from the federal government’s share of the distributable revenue in September.
From the data, the top 10 earning states from the federation account for the month are Delta, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa, Lagos, Kano, Kaduna, Borno, Oyo, Jigawa state in that order.
The 10 lowest earners for the month are Osun State, Cross River State, Ekiti State, Ogun State, Zamfara, Plateau, Gombe, Kwara, Taraba and Nassarawa State.
FAAC committee is made up of Commissioners of Finance and Accountants-General from the 36 states of the federation; the Accountant General of the Federation, and representative from the NNPC.
Others are representatives from the Federal Inland Revenue Service; the Nigerian Customs Service; Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission as well as the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The federation account is currently being managed on a legal framework that allows funds to be shared to the three tiers of government under three major components.
These components are the statutory allocation, Value Added Tax distribution; and allocation made under the derivation principle.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
The second phase of the Town Hall meetings and inspection and commissioning of projects by the Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, will begin on Tuesday, October 17, 2017.
A statement signed by the state Commissioner for Information and Chairman of the organising committee of the event, Mr. Patrick Ukah, disclosed that the Governor and his entourage will be in Udu and Okpe Local Government Areas on October 17 and 18, while it will be the turn of Ndokwa West and Patani Local Government Areas on October 24 and 25.
The statement explained that the Governor will pay courtesy visits on some traditional rulers in the areas on the first day of the visits, inspect ongoing projects as well as commission completed ones.
On the second day, the Governor will hold Town Hall meetings with persons drawn from different groups in the state. During the meetings, he will give his score card and allow people to react and ask questions.
Eleven Local Government Areas were visited during the first phase. There are Isoko North, Isoko South, Sapele, Ethiope West, Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili South, Oshimili North, Ika South, Ughelli South and Uwvie.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Chief Ikechukwu Aduba
The Buhari administration, yesterday, came under strong criticism regarding its unfriendly and humiliating disposition to the Igbos in the country.
Making the criticism in Asaba, the Delta State Capital, a retired Police Commissioner, Chief Ikechukwu Aduba said, going by the recent appointments by President Muhammadu Buhari and in particular, his tagging the Independent People of Biafra, IPOB a terrorist group, the Igbo man may gradually become an endangered race in the Nigeria project.
He argued that there was no basis for the military under President Buhari’s administration to have tagged the IPOB a terrorist group because its members don’t go about with guns or dangerous weapons in their protest.
Therefore, for the military to suddenly tag the IPOB a terrorist group could be likened to killing a fly with a sledge hammer, he said.
Rather than use what he called maximum force against the IPOB, he said the presidency should have resorted to a civil approach by allowing the police to handle the group.This, he said is what is universally acceptable within the concept of Internal Security Arrangement.
He said, in compliance with this, therefore, what the Federal Government should have done to curtail the perceived excesses of the IPOB was to deploy four units of mobile policemen to disperse them whenever they engage in any protest it perceives to be a threat to peace and security and not engage the army or use maximum force and even going to the extreme to label it a terrorist group.
Reaffirming his earlier position that the military is overstepping its constitutional bounds or duty regarding the IPOB issue, Chief Aduba said, internal security is the responsibility of the police but unfortunately, the police that is constitutionally charged with that responsibility has been relegated to the background while the army has taken over its duties.
Describing the Federal Government’s tagging of IPOB a terrorist group as excesive high handedness, he said, up till today, not one Fulani herdsman has been arrested, prosecuted or convicted inspite of all the atrocities they have committed, ranging from destruction of farmlands with their cattle, raping of innocent and helpless female farmers, maiming and killings, Yet the Federal Government has not considered it right to tag it a terrorist group.
Beyond that, he said, the Niger Delta militants killed scores of soldiers, sank their boats, yet the Federal Government did not label them terrorist group rather, it called for discussion and dialogue with them because it knew what was at stake.
Now, an Igbo group, IPOB is peacefully asking for what it thinks will be good for them and government is tagging it a terrorist group. “This is a show of deep-rooted hatred for the Igbo race,” he said.
“All that the Igbo man is asking for in the Nigeria project is equity, fairness and justice, because Nigeria belongs to us all and no one ethnic group is more Nigerian than the other,” Chief Aduba posited.
“Look at the various appointments the Buhari administration has made so far and you would see the imbalance. The South-East is given non-performing ministries, which shows clearly the extent to which the Igbo man is marginalised in the Nigeria project,” he added.
“By every evidence available, the Buhari administration is treating the Igbo’s as if they are a conquered people and I think the time has come for the president to have a re-think and retrace his steps because, never in the history of Nigerian has it been so polarized in favour of one ethnic group like we have today,” Chief Aduba submitted.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
The Delta State Government has stated that it has put necessary machinery in place to ensure that the monkeypox outbreak in some states of the federation does not enter the state.
A statement signed in Asaba by the State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah and made available to Blank NEWS Online on Friday, Octobet 13, 2017 said arrangements have been concluded with Nigeria Centre for Disease Control for the rapid transfer of samples collected from suspected cases for confirmation.
Mr. Ukah said that the state is maintaining constant border patrol of the three Local Government Areas, Patani, Bomadi and Burutu, that have common borders with Bayelsa State to forestall possible transfer of the disease into the state.
This is in addition to the disease outbreak prevention and case management materials that have been pre-positioned in the three Local Government Areas sharing common borders with Bayelsa State to forestall possible importation of the disease.
The Commissioner revealed that the State Rapid Response team have also been placed on Red Alert to respond to emergencies wherever they may occur in the state.
Mr. Ukah appealed to members of the general public not to panic as adequate arrangements have been made to prevent and curtail the outbreak of the disease in Delta State.
He advised persons living in the state to report any person having the signs and symptoms of the disease to the nearest health centre or hospital immediately.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA:
The Delta State Government and the Nigeria Police Force have reacted swiftly to rumours making the round that some persons or groups are going to schools to forcefully inject children to death.
Blank NEWS Online can authoritatively report that the medical outreach by the Nigerian Army is part of its social responsibility to host communities in the ongoing “Crocodile Smile II” exercise in the South South and South East geopolitical zone of the country.
Unconfirmed reports from Anambra State had on Wednesday, October 11, 2017 allegedly misrepresented the ongoing Nigerian Army Medical Outreach programme and insinuating the spread of diseases and death of students in schools as a result of the exercise.
Recall that schools in neighbouring Anambra State, where the rumour emanated were shut down following rumour that some soldiers were seen trying to conduct medical exercise at St Patrick primary school in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area of the state.
Apprehension however followed the rumour of the alleged forceful vaccination of pupils by some soldiers, a development which led to state wide rush by parents to withdraw their children and wards from schools in the early hours of Wednesday.
A statement by the Delta state Information Commissioner, Mr. Patrick Ukah read in full:
“The attention of the Delta State Government have been drawn to the fact that parents and guidance are going to schools to withdraw their children and wards out of panic.
“This panic measure is based on the falsehood and rumors making the rounds that some persons or groups are going to schools to forcefully inject children to death.
“Government hereby states without equivocation that there is no iota of truth behind this rumour as there is no vaccination currently going on in schools across the State.
“The state government has advised school heads to ensure optimum security in their schools by paying attention to all children and wards until the close of schools when parents or guardians come to take them home.
“Accordingly, the state Government has by this announcement advised Security agencies to be on the alert and to nip in the bud the antics of mischief makers who may want to take advantage of this falsehood and rumour to cause havoc.
“Residents of the state are advised to be calm and go about their normal businesses.”
In the same vein, the Delta state Directorate of Orientation has appealed to members of the public to discountenance the falsehood, saying there is no cause for alarm.
A statement from the Executive Assistant to the state governor on Orientation, Mr. Eugene Uzum reads: “The rumor about Soldiers infecting Pupils with Monkey Pox is fake.
Parents should remain calm, Delta State Govt is on top of the situation.”
On his part, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, Mr Ibrahim Zanna assured residents of the state of the safety of their children and wards.
The state Commissioner of Police, Delta state. CP Zanna M. Ibrahim in a statement on Wednesday said that there is no cause for alarm whatsoever in the state as Delta is safe, calm and secure.
The statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Andrew Aniamaka stated that the Commissioner of Police gave the assurance against the backdrop of false rumours going round that security agencies were engaged in forceful vaccination/ injection of school children with suspected substances in neighbouring Anambra State, and are likely to come to schools in Delta State to do so.
The CP, while reiterating that the rumour is spurious and orchestrated by mischievous elements whose sole aim is to cause unnecessary panic in an otherwise very peaceful and orderly state, calls on Deltans to disregard the rumours and go about their lawful businesses and assures them that the Command will continually do all within its power to ensure their safety and security at all times.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State Government has confirmed that there is no death of any student anywhere in the State, just as it warned mischiefmakers to desist from spreading falsehood.
The state government however suspended the ongoing medical outreach undertaken by the Army authority in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area until wide sensitization is conducted to reassure people of its intentions and benefits.
This followed the outbreak of pandemonium caused by the exercise leading to withdrawal of students from schools by parent at the early hours of Wednesday.
A statement by Secretary to the Anambra State Government, Prof Solo Chukwulobelu however advised parents and guardians to strongly stop withdrawing their wards from schools as the situation has been brought under control.
The statement read in full:
“The attention of the State Government has been drawn to an on going medical outreach being undertaken by the Army in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area.
“The State has been made to understand that the exercise is part of Army social responsibility to members of the public.
“However, strong apprehension among the populace has followed the exercise leading to withdrawal of students from schools by parents, misconception of the actual motive behind the exercise by stakeholders, community leaders and a general reservation by the public for whom the outreach is intended.
“To this end and to ensure no further escalation of the situation, His Excellency the Governor, Chief Willie Obiano has contacted the Army Authories and advised for immediate stoppage of the medical outreach until wide sensitization is conducted to reassure people of its intentions and benefits. The exercise has therefore been put on hold.
“Parents and guardians are strongly advised to stop withdrawing their wards from schools as the situation has been handled. All schools within the State will remain open as there is no cause for alarm! Community leaders, Presidents General and all Stakeholders are hereby reassured of the commitment of the Governor and the State Government to the wellbeing of Ndi Anambra.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Our Reporter: Nigerian Army free medical services
Contrary to insinuations that the Military engages only in war, the Nigerian Army, through its social responsibility policy, has embarked on free healthcare delivery outreach to inhabitants of host communities where soldiers operate in Delta state.
The joy of thousands of inhabitants of Oton and Opuama community in Sapele and Warri North local government areas of Delta State knew no bound when the 19th Battalion of the Nigerian Army, koko stormed the areas with free healthcare outreach as part of the Operation Crocodile Smile II exercise.
Residents of the two host communities of 19th Battalion unit of the Army were administered free drugs for various ailments, ranging from malaria to typhoid fever, checking of blood pressure, random blood sugar, de-worming for kids, physiotherapy and distribution of Insecticide-treated nets.
Flagging off the medical outreach, the Commanding Officer of the 19th Battalion, LT. Col. MA Ma’aji said the exercise was part of Army’s social responsibility to host communities where soldiers operate, adding that Operation Crocodile Smile was meant to put smile on the faces of the general public who had in one way or the other assisted, contributed or supported the military to succeed in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
LT. Col. Ma’aji who thanked Oton and Opuama community leaders for their unalloyed cooperation so far in the areas of information and intelligence gathering, emphasised that the aim of the Operation Crocodile Smile was to rid the society of militancy, kidnapping, armed robbery and other social vices, remarking that leaders of the two communities have been helpful in actualising the task.
“I am here with military doctors and other health personnel to tender this free medical service to you as part of the ongoing exercise, Operation Crocodile Smile II. You have been very supportive to stem down crime and criminality in your area hence the army considered your communities as one of the beneficiaries of the healthcare programme.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Our Reporter: Operation Crocodile Smile II
In a bid to douse palpable fear of the renewed presence of military personnel in parts of Delta state, officers and men of the Operation Crocodile Smile phase II, have been charged to ensure they follow order and also be of good behaviour in order to get maximum support from the general public.
The Brigade Commander of 4th Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Benin, Edo state, Brigadier General Ibrahim Garba gave the order in Sapele, Delta State, shortly before the Military stormed the area for what the army described as “show of force”.
Brigadier General Ibrahim Garba emphasised that the behaviour of the troup during the exercise will determine whether the general public will support or cooperate with the Army to achieve results.Operation Crocodile Smile II
“Internal security depends largely on information and intelligence and that the Army can only perform ultimately if the general public is behind us,” the Army General stressed.
He said the Soldier cannot afford to do anything that would tarnish or smear the image of the Nigerian Army while the Operation Crocodile Smile lasted, reminding them that actions that could lead to revolt or resistance from the public should be duly avoided.
He said the force is in Delta state to protect lives and property and not to do anything otherwise, saying that the general public are supposed to be the beneficiaries.
“I want the general public to be happy with us. I don’t want anything that would be done contrary because actions or inactions of one or two officers could tarnish the army good image. To this end, we must abide by the rules and regulations of our profession,”.he warned.
Leading the troops of the Operation Crocodile Smile II show of force around Sapele, Jesse, Oghara in Ethiope West local government and Koko and Abigborode both in Warri North local government areas of Delta state, the Commanding Officer 19th Battalion Koko, LT. Col. MA Ma’aji avowed that the Army resolves to discharge their common constitutional responsibilities and roles of protecting lives and property, eliminating all forms of prevalent crimes and attendant criminality from the Niger Delta area.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA:
As part of efforts to bring succour to the less privileged, especially persons with sickle cell disorder, wife of the governor of Delta state and founder of 05 Initiative, Her Excellency, Dame Edith Okowa, has commissioned the 10th sickle cell clinic at Orerokpe in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State.
In her address, during the commissioning of the sickle cell clinic at the General Hospital, Orerokpe on Friday October 6, 2017, Dame Okowa, who said the event was significant in the journey of the O5 Initiative as a result of the goodness of God, revealing that:
“This is our TENTH Sickle Cell Clinic and the number TEN stands for the completion of a circle. So far, huge successes have been recorded in Agbor, Oleh, Sapele Ughelli, Kwale, Koko, Eku, Patani, Otu Jeremi with committed genetic counselors who attend to patients on daily basis. This is worth celebrating but there are more territories to conquer.”
She emphasized that as part of the 05 Initiative commitment to bringing succor to the poor in the society, the team’s goal is to establish Sickle Cell Clinics in every town where there is a Central Hospital in Delta state as well as having a referral Sickle Cell Clinic in Asaba, the state capital.
Dame Edith Okowa, who was accompanied by the State commissioner for health, Dr. Nicholas Azinge and Speaker of Delta state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori during the commissioning, said that although it is a huge task to meet the needs of all the less privileged people in the state, God has made it possible for the 05 Initiative to record huge support from Deltans in achieving set goals.
She noted that the establishment of sickle cell clinics in areas where there is a General Hospital across the state is in line with the Health policy as enshrined in the PROSPERITY agenda of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration which is aimed at giving hope to the hopeless and transforming lives.
While congratulating the people of Okpe Local Government Area and various partners for their immense contributions towards the actualization of the project, the Delta First Lady also lauded the O5 Initiative team for effectively educating and sensitizing members of the public against acts of stigmatization and misconceptions surrounding the sickle cell disorder.
During the inspection of the world class medical equipment which include Hematology auto analyzer, Haemoglobin electro phoresis and Hematocrit centrifuge provided by the 05 Initiativedelight over the successful establishment of the project for the restoration of hope to sickle cell patients in the area.
“It is my sincere hope that this facility will to a great extent alleviate the sufferings of our people and restore joy to my Survival and Success Children.”
She therefore enjoined good spirited individuals, bodies, corporate organizations among others, to come together to ensure improved advocacy and support at all times for persons with sickle cell disorder, adding that the fight against sickle cell disorder should not rest on parents, care givers and sufferers alone.
“As you partner with the O5 Initiative, I trust God that we will leave a legacy of changing our world, one person at a time”, she said.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Director General of the 05 Initiative, Mrs. Oghenekevwe Agas said the 05 Initiative was passion driven, adding that the scheme was established to ensure that the survival rate of people with sickle cell disorder is higher, just as the equipment at the clinics were to help eradicate encumbrances faced by Survival Success People in accessing health facilities.
She appealed to men and women of goodwill to support the project in order to sustain the campaign to curb the prevalence of Sickle Cell disorder prevalence in the state.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: NLC state chairman, Comrade Jonathan Jemirieyigbe (holding Microphone) flanked by the Secretary of NLC, Comrade Innocent Ofuonyeadi and other Union leaders, addressing workers
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and some of its affiliate unions in Delta state, on Friday, October 6, 2017 organized a walk rally and picketing of some companies in Asaba, the state capital to mark the 10th anniversary of the World Day for Decent Work (WDDW), tagged “End Corporate Greed: Nigerian Workers Demand Decent Work and Pay Rise” which holds annually on October 7.
The unionists led by the Chairman, Delta state chapter of NLC, Comrade Jonathan Jemirieyigbe, walked from Labour House, through Ekumeku/Inter Bau round-about to Summit junction on the Asaba – Benin express way, chanting solidarity songs and displaying placards with various inscriptions.
Inscriptions in some of the placards read: “End corporate greed: Nigerian workers need decent work and pay rise”, “Join union to activate decent work”, No union, no decent work”, Nigerian workers say no to casualization”, “Nigerian workers say no to contract work” among others.
Addressing workers and members of the public, the NLC state chairman, Comrade Jonathan Jemirieyigbe who explained that corporate greed has always been the main enemy of decent work, noted that decent work needs to be at the top of everyone’s agenda – working people, employers and governments.
According to him, “Our workers, through trade unions demand an end to corporate greed and the need for a pay rise. Our workers want to achieve decent work: acceptable working hours, fair wages, sick pay, paid leave, etc. None of these things have been given to workers without their organizing and mobilizing together to demand them. In some cases, they have not been achieved yet, and in others they are being stripped away.”
“The enemy of decent work is, and always has been, corporate greed where excess profits are made at the expense of working people, and in recent years profits have been going up while wages have been going down as a proportion of total wealth produced.
While calling on the erring companies to act responsibly and get back to the negotiating table, the NLC boss said the trade unions are determined to sit down with employers of labour to collectively bargain for pay rise and good working condition for the workers.
He lamented that some companies do not have a collective agreement with workers and do not negotiate with a union over working conditions for their workers, especially those on contract and vowed to picket some of the companies that refuses to recognize or negotiate with trade unions.
He further noted that the present Federal and state Government wages are certainly low, which is why the Labour unions are demanding for the payment of decent wages.
Earlier, the Deputy General Secretary of National Union of Chemical Footwear Rubber Leather And Non-metallic Products Employees (NUCFRLANPE), Mr. Augustine Ekanem insisted that all the trade unions in the world will stand up for decent work, and that the global focus is on the world struggle for living minimum wages and a pay rise for all workers.
He therefore urged workers who have been liberated to join in the struggle to help workers who are presently in penury as a result of poor pay, due to casualization and other illegal contractual engagements.
In an interview with Blank NEWS Online, Delta state Secretary of NLC, Comrade Innocent Ofuonyeadi said decent work must be at the centre of government actions to bring back economic growth and build a new global economy that puts people first.
According to him, “Governments should heed the call from working women and men for decent wages, safe and secure jobs, and an end to greedy corporations setting the rules of the economy. This means ensuring that minimum wage-floors must be enough to ensure a decent standard of living, and that all workers must have the right to join a union and bargain collectively.”
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
Arrangements have been concluded for the formal inauguration of the Delta Online Publishers Forum, DOPF, an association of renowned journalist in the business of online publishing in Delta State.
According to a statement issued from the Secretariat of the forum, the event will hold on Wednesday 11thOctober, 2017 at the Chad-ef Hotel, opposite Bureau for Special Duties, Anwai road, Asaba, Delta State, beginning at 11 in the morning.
The event which will also feature the inaugural lecture of the Forum with the theme, “Impact of Online Journalism on Good Governance and Accountability,” will have the Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori as the Distinguished Guest of Honour, with the Executive Director Social Services Development, DESOPADEC, Hon. Christopher Ochor Ochor as the distinguished Chairman.
A human rights activist and Social advocate, Barr. Malachy Ugwummadu has been scheduled to be the keynote Speaker, while the Delta State information Commissioner; Mr. Patrick Ukah will lead a team of panellist that will also have Ms Julie Ogbeni of Delta State University, High Comrade Eddy Ogude; South South President of NUJ and Ms Faith Nwadishi of Transparency International and Social Advocate, as rapporteurs.
Other Special Guests expected at the event are former Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, Prof. Pat. Utomi, founder of Pan African University, and Lagos Business School.
The DOPF, in the statement, invited members of the Media, captains of industries and the general public to the event that will also have very distinguished personalities in and around Delta State in attendance.
The Delta Online Publishers Forum, DOPF, is made up of Online Newspapers Publishers of Delta State origin within and outside the State, who are professional journalists that have a registered functional online news websites.
The main objective of the new Online Publishers body is to promote good governance, accountability and transparency in governance as well as the society as a whole, through objective online reporting and publishing based on the ethics and tenets of the Journalism profession.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Ibe Kachikwu
THE Niger Delta Indigenous Movement for Radical Change (NDIMRC), has warned against frustrating the Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu just as it claimed that the life of the Minister was under threat.
The Group alleged it has uncovered plans to allocate 100 % oil blocs to those in the North to the detriment of the people of the Niger Delta Region and claimed that the planned declaration of Crocodile Smile in the Region was to check resistance of the people to the allocation of the oil blocs. It called for the scandal in NNPC to be investigated and it’s Group Managing Director (GMD), Dr Maikanti Baru suspended.
The Minister had in a letter to President Muhammadu Buhari, complained about some appointments and reorganizations carried out in Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) without his input. According to him, he read about them on social media and mainstream media like every other Nigerian.
The Minister had kicked against what he described as insubordination and lack of adherence to due process perpetuated by the Group Managing Director (GMD) of the NNPC, Dr Maikanti Baru.
The oil monitoring group, NDIMRC fumed over the way the Minister was being treated and warned that enough was enough.
In a press statement signed by its President, Nelly Emma, Secretary, John Sailor and Public Relations Office (PRO) Stanley Mukoro, the group said that the Minister deserved to be treated fairly and accorded due respect.
According to the group;” We have been watching the activities of the GMD of the NNPC, Dr. Baru since he came on Board and we are not impressed with the way he is treating the Minister of State for Petroleum and people from the Niger Delta Region working in the NNPC. We have seen that the GMD of NNPC is bent on destroying the solid foundation laid by the Minister of State for Petroleum and determined to frustrate the Minister, but we are not going to take this likely because the oil Dr. Baru is presiding over belongs to the people of the Niger Delta Region and not the North”.
“The Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu must be allowed to take charge of the Board of NNPC which the President inaugurated. Our findings revealed that the recent appointments and postings were done without the knowledge of the Board. Members of the Board learned of these appointments from social media and the press release of NNPC. This is bad enough and must not be encouraged”, the Group said.
The Group added that;” We are not happy over the way the Minister is being frustrated. He should be allowed to exercise his power as the Chairman of the NNPC Board. They should let the whole world to know why he is not being allowed to function effectively as the Chairman of the Board. The Minister was transparent when he was the GMD of NNPC, he carried out ethnic balancing, but the reverse is now the case since Dr. Baru was appointed. The current Board of the NNPC must be empowered and given free hand to operate”.
“The office of the Minister of State for Petroleum must be saved from further humiliation and disrespect. The Minister is not anti-North as all appointments made by him in the past were balanced and based strictly on skills, experience, drive and ethnic balancing for senior management positions, but this is not the case with the current GMD of the NNPC”, the group stated.
The oil monitoring group urged President Buhari to treat the letter written to him by the Minister with all seriousness, adding that the President must call the GMD of NNPC to order now.
According to the group also; “For transparency, we want to appeal to the President that the recently announced reorganization changes carried out by the GMD of the NNPC Dr. Baru be suspended until the GMD, the Minister, and the Board have made relevant input”
“We make bold to say that the fight against corruption of the administration of President Buhari will be meaningless without a total clean up of the NNPC. The GMD of NNPC has awarded Contracts worth over 25 Billion Dollars without approval of the Board at a time the whole world is being told that the President is fighting corruption .Who is fooling who? And does the GMD has the right to do so. If this was done by somebody from the South — South, EFCC, SSS and DSS would have gone after such person. The whole world is watching how the President is fighting corruption in Nigeria”,
The group also said that:”The only offence of Niger Delta ex-militant Leader, Chief Government Ekpemupolo ( aka Tompolo) was that he sold his property to the previous administration for #11Billion and at the end of the day he was declared wanted by the Government of the day. Even the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo during a visit, was impressed with the Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko that Tompolo attracted to the Region. But his name entered the bad book of the Federal Government. What about the GMD of NNPC that awarded 25 Billion Dollars Contracts without following due process? Has anyone accused him of wrong doing? Even Nnamdi Kanu that has been labeled as a Terrorist by the Federal Government has not committed the magnitude of the offence the GMD of NNPC has committed against the Nigerian State”.
“Our investigation revealed that oil blocs in the Niger Delta Region would soon be allocated in the ratio of 100 % to the North hence the planned declaration of Crocodile Smile in the Region so that the owners of the oil will be wiped out if they resist the allocation of their God given resources.Let it be made clear that this injustice that is about to be carried out against the peace loving people of the oil rich Niger Delta Region will not stand and no amount of Crocodile Smile can stop the people whose time has come”, the oil monitoring group stated.
It added that;”Oil companies are on longer interested in investing in Nigeria because of the massive corruption in NNPC under the watch of the current GMD. We implore the Federal Government to send EFCC, SSS, DSS, Crocodile Smile and Python Dance to the NNPC. The scandal in NNPC must be investigated and the Corporation cleaned of corruption. We are also calling for the immediate suspension of the GMD of NNPC for the probe of the Corporation to be meaningful”.
“Oil production has gone up because of the prevailing peace in the Niger Delta Region. Militants in the Region have stopped the bombing of oil facilities and so the Federal Government has no reason to declare Crocodile Smile in the Region. We are insisting that the planned declaration of Crocodile Smile is because the Government is about allocating 100% of the oil blocs to the North”.
“Our checks have shown that the Cabal in the North are planning to use the Military, EFCC, SSS and DSS against the Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu because they are not happy with the letter he wrote to the President. The life of the Minister is under threat, his life is no longer safe and the Cabal should be held responsible should any unpleasant thing happen to the Minister”, the group alleged.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: *Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa (right) and CPS Charles Aniagwu
We are very much aware that as the 2019 Polls draw near, the likes of Cairo Ojougboh who obviously are intimidated by the modest achievement of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa even in the midst of national recession would resort to outright blackmail.
Governor Okowa has made it clear that he and his team shall remain focused and committed to the delivery of programmes of Government as spelt out in the SMART agenda.
But for the records lets make it clear that the Delta State House of Assembly, in February 2017 passed the 2017Appropriation bill of N294, 457, 40, 477 billion.
The break down shows recurrent to be N158, 030,660,828 Billion while capital is N136, 443,379,649 billion.
The passed budget showed an increase of over N23 billion from the initial amount of N270, 910,982,233 presented by the Governor to the assembly in November 2016.
The Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Hon. Erhitiake Ibori, who presented the report of the budget before it was passed had this to say “the committee received and collated inputs, observations andrecommendations from the various sub-committees and considered them one after the other, which were used in arriving at certain decisions as proposed estimates were reduced to certain areas to effect increase in other critical areas of specific needs”.
According to her, “the reasons for the increase in the budget size stems from envisaged increase in accruable income from the Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC), owing to the global oil prices increase.
Hon. Erhitiake also attributed the increase to the Senate approval of USD 44.5 per barrel at N305 exchange rate which is at variance with the state USD 42.5 per barrel at N297 exchange rate in Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) document”.
The Governor signed the passed budget into law on Tuesday March 14, 2017 at a brief but impressive ceremony at the Exco chambers of the Government house, ASABA.
Governor Okowa has strictly implemented the budget in accordance with the estimates earmarked by the lawmakers.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: Dr. Cairo Ojougboh
An open letter to Buhari on how Okowa is running Delta State without a budget
4th October, 2017
Mohammadu Buhari (GCFR)
President Federal Republic of Nigeria,
Aso Villa,
Abuja.
AN OPEN LETTER TO MR. PRESIDENT, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA MOHAMMADU BUHARI (GCFR) ON THE ISSUANCE OF A BLANK BUDGET BY THE DELTA STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY TO THE GOVERNOR OF DELTA STATE.
The above subject matter refers;
Mr. President, it is with heavy heart distress and grief that I write you this letter, Mr. President; I am an Indigene of Agbor, Ika South L.G.A of Delta State, former member of the House of Representatives, former Presidential Liaison Officer to the Senate and SSA to the President, former National Vice Chairman South South of the PDP and immediate past National Deputy Chairman of the PDP. This is to bring to your notice the hydra headed corruption and malignant impunity that is currently dancing and celebrating in the Delta State House of Assembly.
Mr. President, ten (10) members of the Delta State House of Assembly informed me (in strict confidence; that their names and families be protected) of the high level of fraud that is currently ongoing in their legislative House where they ply their trade as Law makers. According to them they were emboldened when they learnt that I had left the PDP on 16th September 2017 and they felt the urgent need to now confide in me that I have left the PDP.
The very important issue at hand is that the members confessed to me that up till 3rd day of October they have not seen, sighted or read a copy of the Delta State 2017 budget.
The Hon. Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Sherrif Oborevwori signed only the last page of the budget and returned same to the Government; the Government then fills in the blank arbitrarily and apportions appropriation at will.
The Chairman of the Appropriation Committee of the Delta State House of Assembly and the entire members have not sighted the budget break down and estimates as the conventional practice, the actions of the Speaker with the active connivance of the Government amounts to issuance of a blank 2017 budget and appropriation for Delta State.
Mr. President, I dare any member of the Delta State House of Assembly to produce a copy of the approved budget estimate signed by the Chairman Appropriation Committee, the Clark and the Speaker, let any member display same on any website.
Mr. President, I had the opportunity to speak with Prof. Sam Oyovbaire on issues of impunity and corruption in Delta State. For your information Prof. Sam Oyovbaire presented Dr. Okowa to the Urhobo nation and Okowa was accepted by the Urhobos due to the person of Prof. Sam Oyovbaire.
I told Prof. Sam Oyovbaire that he has a name and integrity to protect, that he should disassociate himself from the mess going on in Delta State.
I therefore in all humility call on Mr. President who is credited by the International Committee not to own a single house and bank account outside Nigeria, who won the presidential general election against an incumbent President due to your anti – corruption credentials to kindly deploy your good offices to cause a thorough investigation into the fraud currently in Delta State through the Blank Budget and appropriations issued by the Delta State House of Assembly by the anti graft agencies.
Mr. President, I am 58 years old, a soldier of truth, if I cannot stand to defend my people on matters of this nature and injustice, then I will not be fair to my God and conscience. It is most excruciating and painful that our hard earned State resources are being stolen in broad day light.
DEMANDS
Mr. President, I humbly on behalf of the good people of Delta State plead and solicit of you to passionately cause and direct the relevant Government Agencies to investigate the above allegation against the Delta State House of Assembly.
I want to assure you, as the 2019 general election draws near, that over two (2) million votes are at stake in Delta State, your reward for addressing the fraud in Delta State shall be total unequivocal support for you and your Government and your Great Party the APC.
Mr. President, Delta State is dying. Kingly direct the EFCC, DSS, ICPC and Code of Conduct to investigate.
Kindly accept the assurances of my highest esteem.
Sunday, September 24, 2017 was a day of thanksgiving to God as the youths and teenagers of Pentecostal African Church Int. Inc. headquarters in Warri, appreciated God for His mercies at the youths and teenagers national convention early this month.
While delivering his sermon, the Assistant General Overseer of PAC, Bishop Barrister Ernest Ekpekurede, said that Christians can rest in restless situations like Peter in Acts 12:6. He encouraged them to place all their challenges in the hands of God, who is faithful and able to keep them from evil according to 2 Thessalonians 3:3.
It was gathered that the Bishop recently returned with his wife from Canada.
During the thanksgiving, the Youths President, Suo Oghuvbu, shared his testimony of how God miraculously delivered a sister from death at the close of the youths and teenagers national convention, how He restored her sight and how He made her elder sister who had been pregnant for a whole year to deliver safely.
The Teenagers President, Onoriode Eseoghene, did not testify during the thanksgiving, but she and her fellow teenagers were excited and enthusiastic.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: Barr. Chuks Obusom, Oshimili South LGA Boss
Chairman of Oshimili South local government area of Delta state, Barr. Chucks Obusom has re-emphasized the need for a review of the revenue sharing formula from the federation accounts allocation to the third tier of government as rudiment for local government autonomy.
Obusom made the call during a media dialogue and stewardship testimonial with outgoing local government council chairmen, organized by the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on Monday, September 25, 2017 at the NLC Secretariat (Labour House), Asaba.
He said that granting local government autonomy without reviewing the revenue sharing formula would lead to a crisis situation if the status quo is sustained, adding that there is an urgent need for increase in local government allocation from the federation accounts to relax the current trend of huge wage bills of the local governments since they are encumbered with the payment of local government staff and teachers’ salaries.
Obusom however insisted that the Delta state government, under Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, has not at anytime shortchanged the local government councils in allocations accruing to them, saying that the state government has often times aided the councils with supplementary funds to cushion the effects of the cash crunch in the third tier in the state.
He revealed that upon resumption in office, he ensured the reformation of the indigenization policy of the local government which was hitherto abused by non indigenes who claim to be from Asaba.
According to him, “I have therefore devised a strategy of ensuring that indigenes are not denied of their socio-economic benefits by personally signing the local government identification certificates. The strategy has yielded results as I presently have over 50 unclaimed certificates of illegal claimants.”
He disclosed that Oshimili South local government is cautiously addressing issues of ghost workers, following the recent introduction of the clock-in and clock-out exercise which drastically reduced the council’s monthly wage bill from N76 million to N70 million.
The council boss, who expressed worry over the poor sanitation situation in Asaba which serves as both Oshimili South local government headquarter and Delta state capital, said the filthy nature of the urban town is occasioned by lack of effective collaboration between the council and relevant agencies of the state government.
Obusom further stated that in order to check fraud and ensure accountability for enhanced internally generated revenue profile in Oshimili South local government council, his administration halted the revenue cash payment by ensuring that all revenue receipts are made through the council’s bank account.
He however pointed out that although the council has made advancement in its socio-economic development strategies by providing an enabling environment for investors, there were still plans to build a modern motor park, upgrading of the Oshimili South Arcade, establishment of a cemetery and expansion of the Ogbeogonogo modern market among others.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu said the aim of the programme is to dialogue with outgoing Council Chairmen in the State to enable them speak on their stewardship in the past three years.
According to the NUJ boss, “The move is for journalists to perform a their watchdog responsibilities to society as well as give vent to our constitutional obligation of upholding the responsibility and accountability of the government to the people.”
Comrade Ikeogwu also noted that the dialogue will run from September 25 to October 23, 2017 with Oshimili Noth and South blazing the trail, while Ughelli North and South will end the exercise.
Accordingly Oshimili North and South will take their turn tomorrow while Aniocha North and South will hold on Wednesday.
Ika North-East and South- September 29, Ndokwa East, West and Ukwuani- October 4, while Warri Noth and South- October 6, Warri South-West and Burutu- October 9 and Isoko North and South- October 11.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: Deputy Governor of Delta State, Barr Kingsley Otuaro (left) and the Assistant Manager SPDC-West Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Mr. Mesh Maichibi (middle) and the Ovie of Agbarha Warri Kingdom, Orhifi Ememoh II during the 2017 SWAMP West Hub Integrated Stakeholders Engagement Forum for Ogunu Community, Iduwini Delta and Ojobo Cluster Communities Leadership organised by Shell in Effurun-Warri, Delta State. PHOTO: TOBORE UMUKORO
Delta state Deputy Governor, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro has encouraged Deltans, especially those of the oil and gas bearing communities to embrace peace in order to enhance oil production and shore up the revenue base of the state.
Otuaro made the call during the annual Swamp West Hub Integrated Stakeholders Engagement Forum for Ogunu Community, Iduwini Delta and Ojobo Cluster Communities Leadership organised by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Nigeria Limited in Warri on Thursday, September 21, 2017.
The deputy governor, who noted that the engagement forum by SPDC was apt, asserted that peace and security remains a key component of the state government and leaders of the various communities and kingdoms.
According to him, “In line with the SMART agenda of the Delta State Government, peace building for enhancement of social harmony is very key to us. Thus we have institutional structures put in place in pursuant of peace and security to achieve our electioneering promises to all Deltans”.
He said that the Delta State Peace Building Advisory Council, Delta State Advocacy Committee Against Pipeline Vandalism, Delta State Security Waterways amongst others were instituted by the state government to create and promote meaningful peace platform for social harmony and investors to thrive in the state.
While applauding Deltans for the relative peace and security in the state, he encouraged them to keep up the development, saying that government requires maximization of all resources to be able to achieve its promises.
He stated that there is need to consolidate on the achievement made to attract more investors and development to the state.
Barr. Otuaro therefore urged oil and gas companies operating in the state as well as community leaders and relevant stakeholders to by-in to the peace driven initiative that will ensure an improved economy.
Earlier, the Asset Manager, SPDC West, Mr. Mesh Maichibi, said the meeting was apt and discussions reached will enable the company plan on how to commence full operation in the state.
Mr. Maichibi commended the leaders, stakeholders and the state government for creating the platform to dialogue on how to sustain peace and development in oil bearing communities.
He noted that Shell companies in Nigeria work with government, communities and civil society to implement programmes that have a lasting impact on lives in the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: Harold Ojji
Chef: The presiding cook in the kitchen of a large household. The head cook of a restaurant or other establishment.
Butler: A manservant having charge of wines and liquors. The chief male servant of a household who has charge of other employees, receives guests, directs the serving of meals, and performs various personal services.
Neither the chef nor butler is owner of the household. Their diligence or overzealousness are therefore determined by the kind of services rendered, either to achieve good or bad result.
It is therefore disheartning to note that shortly after Governor Ifeanyi Okowa earned the accolade of “favorite of the media” from Nigeria’s President Mohammadu Buhari, free press or press freedom has become largely subdued while media practitioners are often times denied access to reasonable information in Delta state.
The mole-eyed Public Relations Officer at the Delta state Government House, Mr. Harold Ojji, has in his own uncanny wisdom become a willing tool of his vague imagination, with an intent to deprive Governor Ifeanyi Okowa from earning more accolades and recognition.
Meanwhile, a number of Information Officers have expressed worry about Mr. Harold Ojji’s continued stay in Government House since the administration of erstwhile Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan till that of incumbent Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. Their concerns have however raised issues of possible monetary dealings with his boss at the Ministry of Information to remain in Government House at the expense of other qualified officers.
Ojji’s rude and uncommon exceses were first noted when he was an information officer at the Ministry of Energy. Owing to his nefarious conduct, he was relieved of his duties and summarily redeployed to Government House through the directive of erstwhile Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, an action which many of his colleagues frowned at because of his corrupt antecedents.
Sources who spoke on condition of anonymity have labelled him a subterfuge to generally accepted norms in the civil service as a result of his near fettish inclination and faith.
“We do not understand why this same man whose records are smeared with ineptitude, incompetence and outright wickedness would not be made to face disciplinary measures. Instead he is given a new chapter of lease to do worst things. He has a peculiar nature of disrespect. He sometimes shouts at his bosses in the Ministry and boasting to deal with them to the chagrin of onlooking staff.”
Recently, without the directive of his bosses, he singularly removed media practitioners email addresses from the government house mailing list, an act seen by many observers as detrimental to the state government’s open door policy. Others see it as an act to jeopardize the policy initiatives of government and working for opposition teams to further thwart government’s efforts of yielding information feedbacks.
His staunch refusal to obey laid down rules has oftentimes earned him queries from his bosses at the Ministry of Information, even as he remains unrepentant of his deliberate unsavory actions.
A government house staff said: “Mr. Ojji has flouted basic civil service rules in the past and nothing is ever done to him. He brags that his “godfathers” would not let him down and as such nobody can redeploy him from government house. He boasts that not even the Commissioner for Information can order his redeplyment.”
It is however unclear whether the chef or the butler has assumed his boss’ position on clear cut decision making and achieving results that are detrimental to the overall interest of the boss and public interest.
Top officials of the Delta state government, Head of the civil service, heads of government miniseries, agencies and parastals should therefore make it a duty to safeguard the tenets of their responsibilities by appointing officials with good and responsible conducts into offices of public concern, in order not to create room for disenchantment and distrust.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
The United States Diplomatic Mission has called for an end to violence amid growing tension in the country.
United States Mission to Nigeria said in a tweet on Friday that it is joining well-meaning Nigerians to sue for peace, calling for an end to violence in the country.
The #OutOfManyOne is a Strength in Unity Video Contest sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, United States Embassy Abuja Nigeria.
The call by the U.S. Mission comes the same day South East governors held an emergency meeting in Enugu to address issues of security in the zone, especially the recent clash between members of IPOB and the military in Abia state.
The military has earlier started an operation code-named Operation Python Dance in the South East with the aim of ridding the region of criminals and other activities threatening the security of the area.
This has led to an altercation among many with fear of communal clashes. State Governors including Simon Lalong of Plateau, Aminu Bello Masari of Katsina, among others have assured residents of peace in order to douse the tension.
Also, the Defence Headquarters on Friday declared the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) a militant terrorist organisation with the Director, Defence Information, Major-General John Enenche calling on parents to dissuade their wards from joining the group.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA:
The South East Governors’ Forum rose from a critical meeting held on Friday, September 15, 2017 in Enugu and announced the proscription of activities of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB).
Announcing the proscription, the chairman of the forum, Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State requested the group and other of such groups to articulate their grievances and send to the forum.
He urged all the governors in the South East to ensure compliance with the directive in their various states and for the Federal Government to withdraw the troops in the zone.
In view of the prevailing security situation in the South East and its attendant consequences, the South East Governors hereby resolves as follows:
1. All activities of IPOB are hereby proscribed. IPOB and all other aggrieved groups are advised to articulate their position on all national issues and submit to the Committee of Governors, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and National Assembly members from the South-East Zone, through their chairman, South-East Governors Forum.
2. All Governors of South-East Zone are to ensure compliance in their respective States.
3. South-East Governors Forum, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and National Assembly Members do hereby reinforce their commitment to a united and indivisible Nigeria.
4. We also reinforce our desire for the restructuring of Nigeria where all national issues will be discussed and amicably settled to achieve justice and fairness to every Nigerian.
5. We reiterate our earlier position that the November 18, 2017 governorship election in Anambra must hold.
6. Accordingly, we appeal to Mr. President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Muhammad’s Buhari GCFR to please, withdraw the military in the Southeast zone, while police perform their traditional role of maintaining law and order.
7. South East Governors have taken concrete steps to protect lives and properties of indigenes and non indigenes in the south east.
Present at the meeting were governors of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu while Imo was represented by the deputy governor.
Other notable personalities that attended the meeting were the Deputy Senate President, Chief Ike Ekweremadu, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Abubakar and the President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Nnia Nwodo.
The governor said that the leadership of IPOB was absent but sent in apologies.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –; Gov. OkowaMr. Patrick Ukah! Delta Information boss
THE Delta State Government has said that the approval of the implementation of scheme of service for state polytechnics and colleges of education with effect from July 1, 2017 is to enhance the welfare of the workers of the institutions.
Briefing journalists in Asaba after the State Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday where the decision was made, the state Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, said that the scheme of service was approved as the minimum working document in the state polytechnics and colleges of education and it shall be adapted for use in line with state policies, adding that the full package will be made public in due course.
Mr. Ukah further stated that the meeting approved the amendment of the declaration regulating succession to the stool of Ovie of Okparabe kingdom, with a view to transmitting an Executive Bill to the State House of Assembly for passage into law.
He revealed that the appointment of Prince Ovie Solomon Onovughakpor as the Regent of Emevor Kingdom in Isoko North Local Government Area was equally approved.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –; Assembly Delta
THE Delta State House of Assembly, Wednesday, September 6, 2017, Constituted the long awaited House Committees.
At plenary, Wednesday, the Speaker, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori read out the names.
The Speaker charged the Chairmen and members of the committees to be on their toes to do the needful now, adding that members took their time in Constituting the Committees.
According to the Speaker, members are happy with the Constitution of the Committees.
The Speaker said that;”The Committees are well spread, all members are involved. It is my appeal to my honourable members to continue to do their work. Let them hit the ground running now that the Committees have been Constituted. Deltans should be rest assured that the Chairmen and members of the various committees will do their job and I still want to appeal to the Ministries to give adequate attention to members of the committees, they should be given the necessary support to discharge their responsibilities to the good people of Delta State”.
Here are the names of the Chairmen of the various House Committees.
1. Finance and Appropriation…. Hon. Erhiatake Ibori
2. DESOPADEC ….. Hon. Barr. Daniel Mayuku
3. Public Account …. Hon. Anthony Elekeokwuri
4. Asaba Development Agency…. Rt. Hon. Peter Onwusanya
5. Education …. Hon. Angela Nwaka
6. Lands, Survey and Urban Development …. Hon. Chief Peter Okagbare Uviejitobor
7. Power and Energy …. Hon. Prince Johnson Erijo
8. Health …. Hon. Dr. Alphonsus Ojo
9. Environment, Oil and Gas …. Hon. Daniel Yingi
10. Information …. Hon. Barr. Tim Owhefere
11. Art, Culture and Tourism…. Rt. Hon. Monday Igbuya
12. Youths and Sports …. Hon. Engr. Emeka Nwaobi
13. Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs …. Hon. Azuka Azaka
14. Rules, Business and Judiciary ….. Hon. Barr. Reuben Yakubu Izeze
15. Public Petition …. Hon. Alaowei Tonye Timi PhD
16. Inter Parliamentary …. Hon. Barr. Evang. Princesses Pat Ajudua
17. Special Duties ….. Hon. Kennedy Oboro Daubry
18. Works …. Hon. Chief Evance Ochuko Ivwurie
19. Housing and Women Affairs …. Hon. Barr. Edna Jane Orezi Esievo
20. Peace and Security …. Hon. Prince Michael Diden
21. Transport … Hon. Efe Ofobruku
22. Establishment, Ethics, Privileges and House Services …. Hon. Barr. Denis Omovie
23. Commerce and Industry …. Hon. Festus Okoh
24. Water Resources ….. Hon. Barr. Omiragwa Samuel Mariere
25. Science and Technology …. Hon. Prince Eric Oharisi
26. Agriculture and Natural Resources ….. Hon. Dcns. Shola Daibo
“Now abided faith, hope and charity; but the greatest of these is charity.” –1 Corinthians 13: 13. Her Excellency, Dame Edith Okowa making the presentation to the Medical Director, FMC, Asaba, Dr. Victor Osiatuna
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA:
The presence of the 05 Initiative team at the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Delta state, in the early hours of Tuesday, September 05, 2017 was greeted with sobriety, especially by Deltans who are abreast with the legendary humanitarian roles the 05 Initiative have played in the lives of Deltans, particularly the less privileged.
On that day, the wife of Delta sate governor and founder 05 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, from the money raised by her foundation, defrayed the medical bills of 10 indigent patients undergoing treatment and those discharged at the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba with the sum of N2, 386, 040, 00, to mark the International Day of Charity.
The lucky patients who were unable to pay up their huge medical bills were admitted at the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba with various degrees of injuries which include first degree burns, road traffic accidents, leg amputation, diabetic foot ulcer, gun shots injury, acid bath, obstructed Labour among others.
In her remarks, she said the International Day of Charity is aimed at increasing public support for charitable causes, raise awareness and provide a common platform for charity related activities all over the world, especially as it affects the less privileged.
She said the 05 Initiative team has chosen to celebrate the World Charity Day at the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba in line with their mission to care for the sick through various tasks of payment of medical bills for patients who are unable to pay their medical bills and providing medical interventions.
In her words: “In our society, the poor are always with us, we see them daily with different challenges. Is it possible to pay deaf ears to their cries? We have been admonished to be our brother’s keeper. We should see the work of charity as a calling to fulfill the divine mandate as recorded in Matthew 25: 35-36 which states that “I was hungry and he gave me meat; I was thirsty, and he gave drink; I was a stranger and he took me in; Naked and he clothed me; and he came time.”
She however commended religious organizations, individuals and corporate bodies that have been engaged in the work of charity.
“Today we remember Mother Theresa, what will you be remembered for? Will the people around you remember you for your good works or for how yo made life difficult for them? You may say you do not have money to give. Giving is a spirit, it does not matter how much you have, let t be your way of life.
“Show a little kindness and support for the needy, this will go a long way in changing our world, one person at a time.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the Medical Director, Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Dr. Victor Osiatuna expressed worry over the nation’s current economic challenges which has inadvertently affected the hospital’s management, as many patients are unable to defray their medical bills.
While praising the humane efforts of Her Excellency, Dame Edith Okowa for volunteering to settle the medical bills of indigent patients to mark the World Charity Day, he revealed that the 05 Initiative founder has at different times defrayed medical bills of several patients running into millions of naira at the hospital, despite other numerous financial assistance being rendered by the state governor, Senator Dr. Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa.
He therefore noted that the rare charity and humanitarian feat of the wife of the state governor should serve as a clarion call to everyone to support the less privileged in the society.
Also, a Head of Department at the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, Dr. Abiodun Farumbi lauded by he Delta state First Lady for being a voice to the voiceless and emphasized that her humanitarian gestures have given hope you to many Deltans.
On her part, Lady Roseline Amioku prayed that God should continue to prservethe life of Her Excellency, Dame Edith Okowa to enable her sustain the good works she has engaged herself in, adding that she has touched positively affected the lives of the less privileged in the nooks and crnies of Delta state.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Oki John thnked Dame Okowa for coming to their rescue despite the economic challenges.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Prosper Edo: Bashorun Askia Ogieh (FCNA, CrFA)
As the Governing Board and Management of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), marked 2 years in office on 28th August, 2017, the Executive Director, Finance & Administration (EDFA) Bashorun Askia Ogieh (FCNA, CrFA) said the Commission led by Chief Godwin Ebosa as Chairman and Olorogun William Makinde Phd as Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer has done well despite the recession; thereby thanking God for the successes recorded in the 2 years in office.
The DESOPADEC EDFA attributed the major challenge of funding confronting the Commission to activities of insurgence which led to vandalisation and disruption of Oil producing activities, a situation that altered our position as the highest Oil Producing State to fourth position in the country. The fall from 1st to 4th was further compounded by the fall of oil prices in the international market. And the Nigeria economic recession added to the woes.
Almost all the cases of either pipelines vandalisation or destruction of Oil facilities in the South – South region was in Delta State, Bashorun Askia lamented. “This ugly situation has greatly affected the revenue accruing to the State which invariably has negatively affected the funding of the Commission. But the statement of hope is on the relative peace the State has now recorded and the repair of the Forcados export line which has raised the prospect of increase in revenue in the coming months.”
Bashorun Askia expressed immense appreciation to His Excellency the Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa for his consistent commitment to the development of the DESOPADEC mandate areas.
“In the face of this serious economic challenges, the Governor has continued to fund the activities of the Commission. The prudent financial management of scarce resources by the DESOPADEC Board in this period of economic hardship is highly commendable. We (Deltans) are lucky to have Okowa as Governor. We are lucky to have a Man who understands the dynamics of the political, economic and social life of contemporary Deltans and has successfully managed the meagre resources accruing to the State.”
Despite the recession, below are some of the Projects Executed and Commissioned by DESOPADEC.
LIST OF PROJECTS COMPLETED AND COMMISSIONED BY THE CURRENT BOARD OF DESOPADEC IN TWO YEARS
(1). Newly completed and commissioned Aviara Ultra Modern Civic Center, Aviara, Isoko South LGA.
(2). Construction of Enwhe Ring Road ,Enwhe, Isoko South LGA.
(3). Constructed and Commissioned Ubreya Street in Uzere Community, Isoko South, LGA.
(4). Newly Completed and Commissioned Six Classrooms Block At Alagbagada Secondary School, Alagbagada in Ndokwa East LGA.
(5). Newly Completed and Commissioned Four (4) Units of 2 bedrooms Bungalow In Alagbagada Community in Ndokwa East LGA.
(6). Newly Completed and Commissioned Alagbagada Ultra Modern Civic Center , Alagbagada in Ndokwa East LGA.
(7). Newly Completed and Commissioned Okobaro Palace Ughievwen Kingdom in Ughelli South LGA.
(8). Repaired of Failed portion of Ubogo/Ugbodu Road in Udu LGA.
(9) Renovation and upgrade of DESOPADEC Skills Acquisition Centre, Afisere Community in Ughelli North LGA.
(10).Completed DESOPADEC Zonal Office, Orerokpe in Okpe LGA.
(11).Completed and Commissioned the Ultra Modern Edion Civic Center Okpe kingdom.(DESOPADEC in Partnership between the Okpe Traditional Council )
(12).Donation of Kitchen and Dinning Hall to The State Owned Dentition Center (Remand Home) Sapele, Sapele LGA.
(13).Renovated and Commissioned The Administrative Block of Hussey College Warri ,Warri South LGA
(14), Completed and Commissioned ICT Centre in Hussey College Warri, Warri South LGA.
(16).Newly Completed and Commissioned Concrete Landing Jetty in Salvation City in Warri South West LGA.
(17).Purchase and Installation of two(2)11kva Transformer to end 11 month Black out in Ogbe-Ijor Community in Warri South West LGA.
(18).Newly Completed and Commissioned Six Classrooms block in Otor-Udu Secondary School, Otor-Udu, Udu LGA.
MORE ACHIEVEMENTS OF BASHORUN ASKIA IN ISOKO NATION.
1. Sponsored the Free Medical Fair 2015/2016 by Isoko Health Foundation, a USA based NGO.
2. Championed an Empowerment Programme for Isoko South People in December 2015 with 25 Lady Motorcycles, 25 Motorcycles (Okada), 25 Grinding Machines, 25 Deep Freezers & 25 Big Generators, 25 Clippers & 25 Small Generators, 25 Hair Dryers & 25 Big Generators and many other items.
3. Boost Human capital development by purchasing a Modern Digital Printing Machine for Yole Print, Oleh.
4. Isoko Legacy Project of Construction and Renovation of Uzere Model School and Isoko House.
5. Sponsored the Training of 23 girls in Fashion Design and Hair Dressing, 6 boys in Plumbing in Igbide by the Prosper Edo Empowerment Programme, an affiliate of Bashorun Askia Political Dynasty.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Aerial view of the Delta and Akwa-Ibom State Houses of Assembly joint sitting at the Delta Assembly Chambers
The Board of the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission DSIEC has been dissolved by the Delta State House of Assembly.
The dissolution followed a motion brought under matters of urgent public importance by the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Tim Owhefere which waqs seconded by Hon. Samuel Mariere, Ughelli North One and was unanimously adopted.
Hon. Owhefere in the motion said “due to the exigencies of the nations fast moving democracy, the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission be now dissolved in line with section 7 (1) of the DSIEC Law 2012.”
The Majority Leader stated that the development was necessitated by noticeable defects and shortcomings in the electoral process as a result of the law establishing the Commission which was currently before the House for amendment.
Hon Owhefere while throwing more light on the motion said the dissolution would enable the house work on proposed new DSIEC law that would enhance the electoral process in the State.
In his contribution, the member representing Warri South II Constituency, Hon. Dennis Omovie said the constitutional requirement to dissolve the DSIEC Board was two third Majority, stressing the need for due process to be followed.
The Speaker, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori who presided over plenary called for voting and twenty members voted for the dissolution and none voted against it.
The Speaker said in line with section 7 (1) of the law setting up DSIEC the Board now stand dissolved having fulfilled the two third requirement by the House for the dissolution and called on the State Governor Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa to immediately dissolve the DSIEC Board.
Also at plenary the House received an executive bill from Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on a Bill to amend the Delta State Local Government Law of 2013.
The executive bill was contained in a letter to the House by Governor Okowa and read by the Speaker Honourable Sheriff Oborevwori.
According to the letter the sections to be amended are sections 96 to 138 and 140 of the law setting up DSIEC the Board.
The Majority Leader Hon Tim Owhefere moved for the House to receive the letter for further consideration and was seconded by the Deputy Majority Leader Hon. Oboro Preyor and was adopted.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: PutinTrump
The Trump administration ordered Russia to close three diplomatic facilities in the U.S., the latest move in a series of escalating diplomatic slights between the two countries.
The U.S. is requiring Russia to shutter its consulate general in San Francisco and its annexes in Washington and New York by Sept. 2, a senior administration official told reporters on Thursday.
The demand was a retaliatory response to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s order that the U.S. cut its diplomatic presence in Russia to 455 people by Sept. 1.
U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson told his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in a phone call that the U.S. had complied with Putin’s directive and informed him of the order to close Russian diplomatic facilities.
Although the demand from Putin meant the U.S. had to cut approximately 755 diplomatic staff members, Washington is only requiring that Moscow close the three facilities. Staffers who worked in those facilities, which house Russia’s trade mission, can be reassigned and continue to work in the U.S., the senior administration official said.
The official declined to say which members of the U.S. mission in Russia were removed, but former diplomats have said they expected Russian local hires to be most affected by the cuts.
The Trump administration order is the latest example of deteriorating relations between the U.S. and Russia. Last December, the Obama administration expelled 35 Russian diplomats and closed two diplomatic compounds in the U.S., a move described as retaliation for Moscow’s interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential elections.
The Russian government initially suggested it would retaliate, but ultimately decided to wait and deal with the Trump administration, which was then weeks away from taking office.
It is revealed that Michael Flynn, the former national security adviser to President Donald Trump, spoke with the Russian ambassador to the U.S. about the sanctions before Trump took office. Flynn, who misled other members of the Trump administration about the content of his conversations with the Russian ambassador, was forced to resign over the episode.
Both Trump and Putin have expressed a desire to pursue better relations between the two countries. But pressure from Congress, particularly from Democrats, to respond to intelligence agencies’ findings of Russian election meddling, have hampered those efforts.
Last month, Congress passed additional sanctions against Russia. Putin responded by announcing sweeping cuts to the American diplomatic presence in his country. Putin’s goal, he said at the time, was to create parity between the two countries’ diplomatic staff levels.
“The United States hopes that, having moved toward the Russian Federation’s desire for parity, we can avoid further retaliatory actions by both sides and move forward to achieve the stated goal of both of our presidents: improved relations between our two countries and increased cooperation on areas of mutual concern,” the State Department said in a statement. “The United States is prepared to take further action as necessary and as warranted.”
The Russian Foreign Ministry said it would announce its response after studying the measures imposed by the U.S. “To cite [Vladimir] Lenin, we don’t need any hysterical outbursts,” Anatoly Antonov, Russia’s newly appointed ambassador to Washington said.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Incumbent President Uhuru KenyattaVeteran opponent Raila Odinga
Kenya’s Supreme Court on Friday nullified President Uhuru Kenyatta’s election win citing irregularities and ordered a new poll within 60 days, a rare move in Africa where judicial power is often seen as an extension of government.
The ruling, broadcast to a stunned nation on national television, sets up a new race for the presidency between Kenyatta, 55, and veteran opponent Raila Odinga, 72.
Official results had given Kenyatta 54.3 percent of the vote, compared to Odinga’s 44.7 percent, a lead of 1.4 million votes. Kenyatta’s ruling party also swept the legislature.
Judge David Maraga announced the Supreme Court’s verdict that was backed by four of the six judges, saying the declaration of Kenyatta’s victory was “invalid, null and void”. Details of the ruling will be released within 21 days.
The judge said the election board “failed, neglected or refused to conduct the presidential election in a manner consistent with the dictates of the constitution.”
Kenyatta called for calm and respect for the ruling, while Odinga’s cheering supporters paraded in the streets of his western Kenyan heartland. Last month’s election results sparked protests and sporadic violence that killed at least 28 people.
“The court has made its decision. We respect it. We don’t agree with it. And again, I say peace,“Kenyatta told the nation in a televised address. “That is the nature of democracy.”
“For the first time in history of African democratization a ruling has been made by a court nullifying irregular elections for the president,” Odinga said, adding that members of the election board “belong in jail” for their conduct.
A row over the 2007 poll, which Odinga challenged after being declared loser, was followed by weeks of ethnic bloodshed that killed more than 1,200 people. Kenya’s economy, the biggest in the region, slid into recession and neighboring economies wobbled.
An election board official said there would be personnel changes, but it was not clear if that would be enough for the opposition. Sweeping out the whole board would complicate efforts to hold a new poll within two months.
Kenya’s judiciary went through sweeping changes after 2007 election violence, on a continent where many Africans complain of judiciaries that rubber stamp government or presidential decisions.
“DEMOCRATIC CREDENTIALS” Odinga Raila and Kenyatta Uhuru before the election
International observers had said they saw no sign of manipulation of voting and tallying at polling stations.
But the election board was slow posting forms showing polling station results online. Thousands were missing when official results were declared, so opponents could not check totals. Court experts said some documents lacked official stamps or had figures that did not match official tallies.
“It’s historic and it could potentially be a moment that consolidates Kenya’s democratic credentials,” said Crisis Group analyst Murithi Mutiga, adding that the fate of the election board could “trigger a crisis” if there was no consensus.
In a nation of more than 40 ethnic groups, tribal loyalties often trump policy at election time.Kenyatta’s Kikuyu is the biggest of Kenya’s tribes but still a minority. Odinga is a Luo.
Many voters in the west of Kenya, Odinga’s stronghold, and on the coast, where many of the nation’s Muslims live and traditionally another region of opposition support, feel neglected by central government.
Kenyatta, whose Kikuyu tribe has produced three out of Kenya’s four presidents, has his main support base in the central region.
Kenyatta and Odinga are both scions of political families. Kenyatta’s father, Jomo Kenyatta, was the nation’s founding president who had a long-running rivalry with Oginga Odinga, who failed like his son in efforts to secure the top job.
Odinga has contested the last three elections and lost each time. After each one, he has claimed the votes were marred by rigging. In 2013, the Supreme Court dismissed his petition.
This time, his team focused on proving the process for tallying and transmitting results was flawed, rather than proving how much of the vote was rigged.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
The Chairman of people Democratic Party (PDP) in Oshimili South Local Government Area, Ogbueshi Dada Okonji, has attributed the current development level in Asaba, the state capital, and environs, to prevalence of peace in the area and promised to make contributions for peace to continue to reign.
Ogbueshi Okonji made the promise when he was honoured as a Patron of Asaba Vigilante Group (ACV), by leadership and members of the security outfit for his contributions to security in the local government area, particularly the donation of set of uniforms to members of the group.
The chairman, who was a pioneer member of ACF at inception, stated that the security outfit has endured protection of lives and property and peace in Asaba, thereby affording the Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, a peaceful atmosphere for the implementation of his SMART Agenda.
He reiterated his promise to continue to encourage and support ACV so that there will be peace and people will be free to go about their businesses, adding that he was proud members of the group were living up to expectations of the people.
Ogbueshi Okonji thanked the Asagba of Asaba, Obi (Prof) Chike Edozie, for ensuring the constitution of ACV when the city was under siege by cultists and armed robbers, expressing delight that since the establishment of ACV, the story has changed.
He also thanked the governor, Senator Okowa and leadership of PDP for giving him opportunity to serve his people and contribute to promotion of peace and security.
Earlier, the Chairman of ACV, Mr. Nnamdi Chukwuedo, said they were honouring Ogbueshi Okonji as a patron because of all his assistance to the vigilante group, saying that the uniform was needed to kit the members to be smart to do their work.
He urged him and other philanthropic individuals to continue to support and encourage ACV to serve the people.
Highlight of the occasion was the investiture of Ogbueshi Okonji as a patron and decoration with a set of the uniform.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (left) presenting a souvenir to the State Commissioner, Public Complaints Commission, Sir Mathaias Eto during a courtesy call by the later the Governor in Asaba.
Okowa (left) presenting a souvenir to the State Commissioner, Public Complaints Commission, Sir Mathaias Eto during a courtesy call by the later the Governor in Asaba. [/caption]
AS the issue of hate speeches continue to re-echo in Nigeria, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has called for the use of appropriate legal channels for the people to address their grievances.
Governor Okowa made the call when Hon. Mathias Eto, Commissioner, Public Complaints Commission led members of the Commission to pay a courtesy call on the Governor in Asaba.
According to the Governor, “there is no doubt that because of the recession, people are easily getting angry but, it is time for us as a people to realise that there are several constitutional avenues for us to lay our complaints.”
“People should try to have more reasonable means to engage the Nigerian state peacefully, rather than engage in hate speeches that generates tension,” he said, adding, “when these types of speeches are heard outside the shores of the country, it will discourage foreign direct investments and make local investors to be cautious which will further endanger our fragile economy.”
The Governor reiterated, “to achieve law and order in the society, there must be equity and fairness in our activities because, any society that cannot ensure law and order will be in anarchy.”
He commended the Public Complaint Commission for the roles it is playing to stabilize the polity, assuring, “anything that will help us achieve peace in the state will be welcomed; as a government, we have a lot of avenues for peace building and to cement the existing peace and unity in our state.”
Earlier, Hon. Eto had in an address, observed that with Governor Okowa’s antecedents in governance, Delta State is in a safe and capable hands.
He stated that the Commission was committed to peace building and reduction of crime in the society, adding, “if the vision, mission and spirit of the founding fathers of the Commission was upheld and the Commission given the proper attention and cooperation it deserves, the massive agitation and criminality prevalent in the country today may have been at the barest minimum.” 1Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (5th right) ; Head of State Civil Service, Mr Reginald Bayoko (5th left) and Commissioner for Information, Patrick Ukah in a group photograph with the State Commissioner, Public Complaints Commission, Sir Mathaias Eto and his team during their courtesy call on the Governor in Asaba.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA:
In a bid divest some of its state outfits and investments through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, Delta state government has decided to relinquish her 60% stake in Delta Line to God is Goof Motors Limited.
The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Mr. Ehiedu Charles Aniagwu has said that the decision of the Delta State Government was beyond political patronage but for the best interest of the state.
Meanwhile, in less than one week after the Delta State Government explained its decision to sell part of its equity stake in Delta Transport Services Limited, as a result of failure to be commercially viable, the State Government has in a renewed effort debunked insinuations that the state transport service has been sold, saying that the company has only been repositioned for greater efficiency and improved profitability.
Recall that a statement signed by Mr. Sam Ijeh, Media Assistant to the State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah had on Thursday, August 24, 2017, revealed that the state government opted for sale of part of its equity stake to stem the tide of further deterioration, just as advertisement for expression of interest were made in line with due process following which the successful bidder was considered.
But the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Charles Aniagwu debunked insinuations that the transport company has been sold and stated that Governor Okowa’s administration has the intention of divesting government interests in the company by having 40 per cent equity shares while a reputable transport company takes 60 per cent shares.
At a recent press conference in Asaba on Tuesday, August 29, 2017, Aniagwu insisted that Governor Okowa values the roles the transportation company plays in the lives of Deltans and Nigerians in general and has never contemplated the sales of the company, adding that the State Government only divested 60 percent of its equity shares to ensure greater efficiency and improved profitability.
According to Mr. Aniagwu, “the insinuation that Delta State government has sold Delta Line is false for what was done, was to divest some of government’s equity with a view to bringing-in private hands to efficiently pilot the affairs of the cooperation and are looking at 60-40 equity holding as against 70-30 that was reported in some quarters; this is to ensure that the company comes in, reposition the Delta Line and put it on the path of profitability and when that is done, we can talk about liquidating the debt burden that at the moment has been the bane of the company.”
“Delta State government wants the company (Delta Line) to remain as a going concern, that is why nobody can contemplate sales of the company. We are going into a Public Private Partnership (PPP), we are only partnering with the private sector that has demonstrated so much confidence and ability to run the operation of such business,”
“We are going into a Public Private Partnership (PPP), we are only partnering with the private sector that has demonstrated so much confidence and ability to run the operation of such business. No Memorandum of Understanding has been signed yet but we have made appreciable progress in that direction.”
Aniagwu stressed that the State Government believe that over the years the Delta Line that was set up with very good intentions have not been able to live up to its expectations, both in terms of delivering on its obligation to the staff of the cooperation and also obligation to the state government who have put in enormous amount of funds in ensuring that the entity run as a viable transport company.
On the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) N3 billion bid, the Media Assistant to the State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Sam Ijeh mentioned that the Union did not indicate interest at the time of advertisement and neither did it provide details of how it would source funds for the purchase of the shares to be sold, while Mr Aniagwu explained that the union apart from bidding late didn’t have the proven technical, operational and managerial competence to run such a company, stressing that the state government was interested in ensuring that Delta Line was run by competent hands that would ensure its continuous existence.
