Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: Dame Edith Okowa
The wife of the governor of Delta state and founder of 05 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, on Thursday, June 01, 2017 celebrated her 56th birthday anniversary with inmates of the five Prisons in the state.
The governor’s wife also paid to secure the release of the Prisons inmate who were unable to afford payment for court fines.
At the Kwale Prisons in Ndokwa West local government area, Dame Edith Okowa who lamented the high number of youths in the prison, urged the youths to surrender their lives to Christ as God loved them.
She disclosed that the essense of celebrating with the inmates was to help in converting them to become Christians, hence the increasing love for money, position and fame had been a societal problem, mostly among youths.
Meanwhile, the Delta state Comptroller of Prisons, Mr. Sam Iyeora who was represented by Mr. Eugene Nwanze said the state Prison Command appreciates the charitable works of Dame Okowa to the prisons through the 05 Initiative project by paying fines for inmates, the expanded water project, medical supplies, electricity generating sets, among others.
At the Kwale Prison, the Deputy Comptroller of Prisons, Mr. Charles Ogwude congratulated the Governor’s wife on her 56th birthday while Dame Okowa later presented food items, clothing, toiletries and bibles after she had paid court fines for the release of some inmates which was culminated with cutting of the birthday cake.
Earlier, the governor’s wife was honoured by staff of her office with a surprise birthday party where she advised Delans to yield completely to Jesus Christ, adding that she enjoys impacting positively on peoples lives.
While the Chaplain, Government House Chapel, Asaba, Rev. Charles Osemene urged more persons to become ambassadors of Christ, the Permanent Secretary, Government House, Sir Eddy Ogidi-Gbegbaje; elder brother to the governor’s wife, Mr. Edward Mekwunye and the sister-in-law, Ezinne Ebegboni, among other dignitaries described Dame Okowa as compassionate, humble, accommodating and God fearing.
The further urged her not to relent in her efforts at giving succour to the less privileged in the state.
Recall that the Governor of Delta state, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has accompanied his wife, Dame Edith Okowa to the morning service at the Government House Chapel for prayers and thanksgiving.
The Wives of Delta State House of Assembly Members Led by the wife of the Delta State House of Assembly Speaker Mrs Tobore Sheriff Oborevworiri had also visited The wife of the Delta State Governor Dame Edith Okowa at the State Government House Asaba to celebrate her 56th Birthday.DAME EDITH OKOWA DEDICATES BIRTHDAY TO GOD.
HER EXCELLENCY, DAME EDITH OKOWA, CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY WITH IMATES AT KWALE PRISONS, GRANTS FIVE IMATES FREEDOM. DELTA FIRST LADY, HER EXCELLENCY, DAME EDITH OKOWA CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY WITH MOTHER OF DIVINE GRACE ORPHANAGE HOME ASABA.DELTA LAWMAKERS WIVES CELEBRATES DELTA FIRST LADY DAME EDITH OKOWA 56TH BIRTHDAY AMIDST EXCITEMENT AT THE STATE GOVERNMENT HOUSE ASABA.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: DELTA FIRST LADY, HER EXCELLENCY, DAME EDITH OKOWA CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S DAY WITH O5 INITIATIVE KITCHEN
It was funfare for Children in Delta State, as Wife of Delta State Governor and founder of 05 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, turned “Chef” by personally cooking and serving food at the 2017 National Children’s Day celebration held at the Cenotaph in Asaba, the Delta State capital on Saturday, May 27, 2017.
Dame Edith Okowa, who used her pet programme, O5 Initiative to provide food and refreshment for the children, said her service to humanity is borne out of the desire to advocate for the Right of the African Child to education, health care and protection as leaders of tomorrow.
She said the International Children’s Day is a reminder for renewed commitment towards the welfare and protection of children and teaching them to live by good ideals and Godly counselling.
“Children’s Day reminds us of the rights of children because they are the leaders of tomorrow who deserve much respect, special care, affordable education, good health care and protection from parents and guardians.”
The governor’s wife who personally served food and drinks to the children from various schools, noted that her pet project, 05 Initiative is also engaged in providing health care services through establishment of sickle cell clinics, visits to prison inmates, assisting orphans in orphanage homes, providing for less privileged women and clothing the naked, especially in public schools across the state.
Meanwhile, the Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa also reiterated his administration’s commitment to continue to provide conducive teaching and learning environment for children in the state.
The governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Chiedu Ebie, said children needed to be armed with the relevant technical and vocational skills, stressing that good education remained one of the greatest assets that could be bequeathed to them.
He described education as the best protection for the future of children, saying they represented a sound and strong nation, adding: “Today’s children are responsible citizens of tomorrow, especially as foundation of knowledge, skills and attitudes are laid in this responsible period.”
Speaking on the theme of this year’s celebration “Child Protection and Sustainable Development Goals and Opportunities” Governor Okowa said that it did not only address the role of adults towards children but brought to mind the sacred duties parents and guardian owed their children and wards.
He said the Day was also meant for the sick, challenged and deprived children. “On this occasion, we should also remember those children who are sick, disabled, abused and unhappy. We should not only spare thoughts for these ones, we should take bold steps towards alleviating their suffering, protecting and making necessary sacrifice for their comfort. They deserve special care and attention”, the governor stated.
The high points of the celebration were the match past, cultural displays and award of prizes to schools that came tops. The awards were presented by Mr. Chiedu Ebie (Commissioner for Education), Mr. Vincent Uduaghan (Commissioner for Transport), Mr. Patrick Ukah (Commissioner for Information), Mr. Kingsley Emu (Economic Planning) and Mr. Mofe Pirah respectively. DELTA FIRST LADY, HER EXCELLENCY, DAME EDITH OKOWA CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S DAY WITH O5 INITIATIVE KITCHEN DELTA FIRST LADY, HER EXCELLENCY, DAME EDITH OKOWA CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S DAY WITH O5 INITIATIVE KITCHEN DELTA FIRST LADY, HER EXCELLENCY, DAME EDITH OKOWA CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S DAY WITH O5 INITIATIVE KITCHEN
Following the violent attacks on citizens of Idumuje-Ugboko community in Aniocha North Local Government Area, Delta State, the Iyase (Prime Minister) of Idumuje-Ugboko, Chief Chris Ogwu, has averred that the panacea for peace to return in the crisis-ridden community is for a meeting of stakeholders to resolve the feud.
The feud is revolving round the death of the monarch, Obi Albert Nwoko 111, the choice of his successor, the ejection of two wives of the late Obi from the palace and rape of 15-year old princess in the palace.
Addressing a press conference in Asaba on Thursday, May 25, 2017, Chief Ogwu, who was supported by former President-General of Idumuje-Ugboko Development Union (IUDU), Prince Walter Eziashi, the Secretary of the Land Committee, Chief Kennedy Iloh and one of the wives of the late Obi, Mrs. Faith Okwukwe Nwoko, said that one person has been killed and several people wounded and property destroyed.
He revealed that all meetings summoned before now to mediate on the crises were rebuffed by Crown Prince Nonso Nwoko, adding that once he agrees for a meeting, the matter will be resolved to the satisfaction of all.
Chief Ogwu reminded the crown Prince that instead of opposing genuine ideas, he should realize that it is his people that he wants to rule and should agree to a round table talk to resolve the impasse.
He said that the climax of the crises that had been brewing in the community began since on Sunday when mercenaries, allegedly hired by the palace, invaded the community and unleashed mayhem on the people.
According to him, the hoodlums who were suspected to be hired, attacked the elders, youths and members of the community vigilante groups, stressing that they identified those who were out spoken to condemn the activities of the crowned Prince, were targeted.
Chief Ogwu said he was beaten up in his residence, his car vandalized and property looted. He told Journalists that Chief Iloh was the first to be attacked on Sunday evening when the hoodlums stormed his house and abducted him to the palace where he was beaten and tied up before his reuse by some indigenes.
The Iyase said that the community is almost on a standstill as markets and schools had been closed and residents forced to remain indoors for fear of attack.
He said that in the interim, police should move into the community and arrest those perpetrating the crimes and bring them to book, so that peace will be restored to the village.
According to him, police had not lived up to expectation and they only visited and stopped at the police station without moving in to arrest the rampaging cultists.
Also speaking, Prince Eziashi attributed the reason for the subsisting crises to traditional breach on the successor to the king and rape of the 15-yer old Princess, which he raised the alarm and police are investigating.
He said that no community will agree to crown a man facing criminal cases in the court, adding that cause of the matter in the community is purely traditional.
Prince Eziashi, while answering questions, declared that it was diversionary to link Prince Ned Nwoko, former member of House of Representatives and Delta North Senatorial aspirant, to the feud because he is an innocent citizen who desires development of the community and well being of its people.
He also called on security agents to visit the community and make necessary arrests to forestall the on-going mayhem, adding that the invaders were also attacking youths of Idumuje-Ugboko.
In his comment, Chief Iloh confirmed he was abducted and beaten by the invaders before he was reused, adding that those perceived to be loyal to Prince Ned Nwoko were singled out for the attack.
He said that he had petitioned the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Police Command, mentioning names of those behind that attack on him, but no arrest had been made, adding that the community has been on fire since the past few days.
According to him, the youths who invaded the community seized the chairman of the Vigilante Group, Mr. Peter Bama, and forced him to identify all the members, who were also attacked and their operational guns seized from them.
He said that the rampaging cultists also invaded the secondary school in the town and forced students to go home, stressing that since then, children and youths have not been going to school.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: DELTA FIRST LADY, HER EXCELLENCY, DAME EDITH OKOWA, FOUNDER O5 INITIATIVE, COMMISSIONS SICKLE CELL CLINIC AND LABOUR ROOM FACILITY, GENERAL HOSPITAL OTU-JEREMI, UGHELLI SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF DELTA STATE.
Wife of the governor of Delta state and founder of 05 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, has lauded sons and daughters of Ughelli South local government area for their contribution towards the successful establishment of the Sickle Cell clinic at the General Hospital in Otu-Jeremi.
Dame Edith Okowa, who said her determination to contribute to the well being of the society as a result of her passion for people with sickle cell anaemia, also expressed confidence on the level of sensitization and education of Deltans by the 05 Initiative, which have yielded impressive results.
Speaking shortly after the commissioning and handing over of the Sickle Cell Clinic to the Delta state government on Thursday, May 25, 2017 at Otu-Jeremi, Ughelli South local government area, the First Lady emphasized on the need to halt all forms of discriminatory acts towards people living with the disorder.
“They are geniuses and should not be left without proper education. I have passion for sickle cell anaemic disorder.”
According to her, the areas of help by the 05 Initiative include visits to prisons, orphanage homes, the less privileged women and clothing the naked”, adding the that “There is the need to sow seed to save lives and be remembered for such good.”
In her welcome address, the Director General of 05 Initiative, Mrs. Kevwe Agas, who appealed to men and women of goodwill to support the project, disclosed that the office of Her Excellency does not have a budget but have devised means to ensure that the campaign to curb Sickle Cell disorder prevalence in the state is sustained.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Azinge in his goodwill message revealed that the Sickle Cell Foundation through its National Director, Dr. Annette Akinsete has hatched out plans to train health workers in public and private health facilities on prevention and management of sicle cell disorders in Delta state, which he said “will boost the quality of care our clients would receive at the commissioned clinics.”
According to him, “Medical science has cleared the air conclusively that SCD is not as a result of incarnation of evil spirit but a genetic disorder that can be managed medically to a high degree of effectiveness.”
He therefore called on those aspiring to get married to ensure that they undergo all recommended tests and counseling before marriage. He also called on mothers who have “success children” (SS) to avail themselves to the facilities for effective management of their child and wards. He added that the state Ministry of Health is currently monitoring the performance of the clinics since commissioning.
In their counsel, Medical Director, Dr. Ojo, Dr. Tuoyo, Retired Nurse Emechete and Mr. Anderson Igho who respectively spoke on the importance of nutrition, prevention and types of laboratory tests for sickle cell cell disorders emphasized on the need for the children with disorders to always eat food that contains protein, calcium, vitamins as well as vegetables, fruits, regular drinking of water, exposure to Vitamin D and avoid meat with fat.
They also pointed out that knowing ones genotype before marital engagements would help to curtail the prevalence of the disorder, which they say the founder of 05 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa is presently tackling with the establishment of sickle cell clinics in various hospitals across the state.
Preliminary data of number of persons registered in the commissioned sickle cell clinics:
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –Albert OGRAKA: Dr. (Pharm.) Nelson Ejakpovi
CHAIRMAN, Governing Council, School of Health Technology, Ofuoma (DESCOHTECH), Dr. (Pharm.) Nelson Ejakpovi, may have run into troubled waters, following the ongoing massive protest by students over an alleged tuition hike.
Blank NEWS Online can authoritatively report that the aggrieved students thronged out in the early hours of Wednesday, May 24, 2017 demanding for a reverse in the 100 percent increase of the school charges, aside other fees.
The students, who had securely locked the gates of the school have also mounted a barricade to bar the school authorities from gaining entrance into the school premises while those who are already in the school compound are locked in.
They have also lamended the ordeal they have been plunged into by the education policies of the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa administration, claiming that the policies does not reflect the “prosperity for all” slogan of the state government.
A protesting student told Blank NEWS Online that, “The state government has unilaterally increased our school fees from N17, 000 to N35, 000. How do they want us to cope.”
Several attempts made by Blank NEWS Online to contact the Chairman of the institution’s Governing Council, Mr. Nelson Ejakpovi between 09:00am and 09:30am proved abortive as his phones were switched off.
The Commissioner for Higher Education, Mr. Jude Sinebe could not also be reached for comments but when contacted at 11:11am he said issues at the institution were at the purview of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Azinge.
When contacted Dr. Azinge said he was at a meeting with the state governor, adding to talk later.
Meanwhile, the Provost of the Delta State College of Health Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli, Dr. (Mrs.) Agnes Olojoba has appealed for calm among the students. She addressed them at about 09:45 am while lecturers and staffs of the institution are still outside the school gate.
However, Chairman Governing Council, School of Health Technology, Ofuoma (DESCOHTECH), Dr. (Pharm.) Nelson Ejakpovi told Blank NEWS Online at 10:00am that:
“The situation is receiving attention, I don’t think it’s much to worry about. It was all bothered on communication breakdown. Thanks a lot.”
However, Chairman, Governing Council, School of Health Technology, Ofuoma (DESCOHTECH), Dr. (Pharm.) Nelson Ejakpovi,at 10: 00am told Blank NEWS Online that:
“The situation is receiving attention, I don’t think it’s much to worry about. It was all bothered on communication breakdown. Thanks a lot.”
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
The former governor of Edo State Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Deputy Governor of the State Comrade Philip Shaibu, the Secretary to the Edo State Government Barr. Osarodion Ogie and other leaders of the State have distanced themselves from the political travail of one Blessing Agbomere who has taken to the media to criticize the leadership of the state with sundry allegations.
Rising from an enlarged meeting today in Auchi, the Edo North Political Forum has vowed to give their backing and support to the current leadership of the State, despite the ongoing campaign of calumny by the said Agbomhere . The group frowned at Politicization of personal ambition against the overall interest of the people of Edo State. “Blessing Agbomhere has no political profile and therefore cannot be given underserved attention because of his capacity to tell lies.”
In a communique signed by the Secretary of the Forum Benjamin Atu, the group accused Mr. Blessing Agbomhere of endangering the unity, peace and progress of the state and will be made to answer questions from relevant security agencies of government in due time. They also condemned the protest led by Agbomhere against the former Governor of the State Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and the Incumbent Deputy Governor Comrade Philip Shaibu in Auchi.
“By virtue of the fact that he is a member of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and a former aspirant, he ought to be a peace builder. It is ironical that a political office seeker who ought to be a justice of peace will twist facts, lead an illegal protest knowing the security implications, just to score a selfish political point. Expecting him to exhibit decorum, the leaders warned that they would not allow the selfish ambition of some foreign politicians to derail the development of of the state.
Wondering why the good name of Adams Oshiomhole, Philip Shaibu and Barr. Osarodion Ogie Should be tarnished to justify personal satisfaction Benjamin Atu advised critics of Philip Shaibu to define the objectives and strategies of their struggles more clearly than degenerating into abuses, lies and wild allegations against the best Legislator which Edo State has ever produced since the creation of the state. He cautioned them to sharpen their pen for proper research and investigation about the above personalities before yielding themselves to cheap black mail.
The Statement describe the Publication with the tittle “Why Oshiomhole, Shaibu and Ogie Want Blessing Agbomhere Dead ” as a reckless utterance and ridiculous. What relevance is Blessing Agbomhere to the people of Edo State that made him feel so important? Adams Oshiomhole and Philip Shaibu became popular in Nigeria as freedom fighters and will be wrong for any one to described them as tormentors of the oppress despite their political track record which has revolutionized the entire State”.
“He is therefore expected to withdrew his words and apologise to the leadership of the state over his reckless utterances and be of good character with respect for constituted authority. This publication therefore also serve as an invitation to Blessing Agbomhere and his group on a two weeks crash program on cooperate respect and leadership course under the office of the Deputy Governor of the State.”
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Prof. Eric Eboh, presenting tarter parks
In continuation of the on-going handing out of starter packs to the beneficiaries of the 2016 Cycle of the Delta State Government’s Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP), STEPreneurs trained in Catering and Confectionery have received theirs to establish their enterprises.
Presenting the starter packs to 87 beneficiaries at Asaba, the Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, charged them to make judicious use of the starter packs so as to run a viable enterprise that could make them self-reliant and employers of labour.
Represented by the Chief Job Creation Officer, Prof Eric Eboh, Governor Okowa, congratulated the beneficiaries for the successful completion of their training in different training centres across the state.
He said it was his expectation that the state witnessed through them a ‘’harvest of entrepreneurial ambassadors. We hope to succeed with you. What we expect is nothing less than success”.
He listed the items in the starter pack to include two components- Job Creation Grant and Microcredit (repayable). The Job Creation Grant component included a Master Chef electrical mixer, a Hoffner 9 litres chaffing dish and a deep freezer.
The Microcredit component were a fabricated gas oven with one cooker, a 12kg gas cylinder, a fabricated double burner cooker; a 35 gallons cast pot; a 7 litres cast frying pan; a giant Iceman food warmer; a potato cutter; a non-sticky frying pan; a kitchen scale; a cash allowance of #123,000.00 and a monthly stipend of #10,000.00 for three months.
He also said the State Government had made provision for transport allowance to enable them to convey their starter packs to their respective destinations.
Also speaking, the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Barr Mary Iyasere, admonished the beneficiaries on tips to business success in the catering enterprise.
She advised them to maintain cleanliness and good hygiene, to be polite and to maintain a healthy working relationship with their workers as well as their customers to ensure business growth.
While urging them to be committed to their enterprises by being physically present to supervise their workers at all times at every ceremony, she advised them to plough back their profits to ensure business growth.
On his part, the Special Adviser to the State Governor on Youth Monitoring and Mentoring, Mr Edward Mekwunye, tasked the beneficiaries to work hard to succeed, stressing that, ‘’success not sustained is void.”
Speaking on behalf of other beneficiaries, Vivian Abamba and Eloho Linda Ogolosi expressed their gratitude to the Delta State Government for its commitment to tackling youth unemployment through its job creation programmes.
They advised other youths to take advantage of the programmes to become entrepreneurs and job creators instead of searching endlessly for non-existent white collar jobs.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Prince Ned Nwoko
Anioma Youth Forum (AYF), has thrown its weight behind the establishment of the proposed Stars University and Golf Course in Idumuje-Ugboko, Aniocha LGA, by a philanthropist Prince Ned Nwoko, noting that the projects will not only transform the socio-economic lives of the people but will also boost the image of Delta State when completed.
In a press statement issued in Asaba, the Delta State Capital and signed by Mr. Felix Ifejiokwu and Barth Inneh, the National President and Secretary respectively, AYF called on a section of Idumuje-Ugboko people and their sponsores to stop their opposition towards the establishment of the projects.
While condemning the impression being peddled by a clique that the Stars University and Golf Course are meant to deprive the people of Idumuje-Ugboko of their land, the group noted that the vision to establish the projects dates back to 2011 with the aims of leaving a legacy for human capital development that will harness the physical and intellectual capabilites of the young ones.
The statement added that the projects would further help to develop sports as a worthy heritage of Deltans, as well as to expose the tourism potentials of Idumuje-Ugboko Kingdom to the international community.
“In other climes, this kind of projects are craved for, projects that have already been estimated to employ over 2000 locals with its multiplier effect should not only to be embraced by all, but should be supported by all people of Idumuje-Ugboko in particular, the entire Anioma and Delta in general. Today, Ogwashi-Uku, Abraka, Auchi, Ekpoma to mention a few, are bubbling with socio-economic activities because of the Polytheistic and Universities sited in their domain.”
“Prince Ned Nwoko, the brain behind the projects, is a positive, calm, well-defined gentleman, a world renowned philanthropist and detribalised personality, devoid of sentiments, a man that attends to myriad of complaints from people of various communities, as he usually deploys his personal resources to improve their conditions. A man that is imbued with wisdom, determination and with the courage needed to succeed in his endeavour, often time fashion out possible ways to help the people who throng to his residence whenever he visits home.”
Anioma Youth Forum therefore, call for cessation of all propaganda by a handful of Idumuje-Ugboko persons and their sponsores, rather they should channel their energies and resources into making sure that the Stars University and Golf Course materialise, so as to open another vistas of hopes for the teaming youths of Idumuje-Ugboko, Delta State and Nigeria at large.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: Dame Okowa full of praises to God
The 2017 Couples’ Forum, organizd by the 05 Initiative, a pet project of the wife of Delta state governor, Dame Edith Okowa has held in Asaba, with a call on couples to adhere strictly to the counsel of God in strengthening marriages.
The counselling programme tagged, Couples’ Forum with the theme: “Contemporary Family Issues And God’s Counsel For Marriage” which held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba on Monday, May 15, 2017 was attended by the Governor of Delta state, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, members of the state executive council, the legislature as well as top government functionaries with their better halves.
Giving the first biblical talk from passages drawn from the books of Psalms 127:3, Psalms 11:3, Matthew 6:23 and Genesis 8:22, Rev. Ejebe Eme who enjoined couples to always set their priorities right by sowing the right seed for good harvest and expounding in wisdom, which accordijg to him is pivotal in marriage, said the bane of marriage breakups is default value system, lack of trust and less time for children upbringing.
Evangelist Nnamdi Eze, who gave the second talk from Hebrew 13:4, Malachi 2:13-14, Genesis 2:18,25 and Ephesians 5:21-23, advised couples not to neglect God’s counsel for marriage because faithful companionship built on Godly foundation cannot be faulted.
While encouraging couples to always exhibit the culture of openness and transparency in their marriage, the marriage counselor extolled the virtues set out by God for man and woman, saying it is the only standard for a successful union.
He further revealed that God’s charge to couples include keeping marriage vows, fear of God by not hurting one’s partner, celebrating strength of partners by tolerating each other’s weaknesses, giving attention to one’s family and giving adequate attention to children for posterity.
Delta State Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Wife Dame Edith Okowa, Wife of the Deputy Governor Mrs Ebierin Otuaro , Secretary to the State Government Hon Festus Agas and Wife Kevwe Agas, Head Of Service Sir Reginald Bayoko, Chief Of Staff Hon Tam Brisibe, Delta State Lawmakers, State Executive Council Members and others attended 05 Initiative 2017 Couples Forum Organized by Delta First Lady Dame Edith Okowa.
Highlight of the colourful and well attended event was praise and worship, hymnal rendition, interactive session as well as prayers for families, government and people of Delta state.
The Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU), Federal Medical Center (FMC), Asaba Chapter, has registered a protest against the maltreatment of it’s Union members by Officials of Federal Ministry of Finance, Abuja, over non payment of their outstanding entitlements.
In a protest letter, addressed to the Hon. Minister, Federal Ministry of Finance, Abuja, with attention to the Director, Presidential Initiative On Continuous Audit (PICA), Abuja, the leader of the group, Comrade Akinlaye Davidson expressed concern that while health workers in FMC Asaba are being owed salaries and promotion arrears, other health institutions in the same ministry have been paid these monies till date.
Comrade Akinlaye also listed some of the entitlements owed the workers to include October 2016 salary, illegal deductions made in December, 2014 salary, promotion arrears for 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 respectively, in addition to other maltreatments as reasons for the protest.
In a protest letter by the Union, titled: PROTEST AGAINST MALTREATMENT OF WORKERS AT FMC ASABA DELTA STATE BY OFFICIALS OF FEDERAL MINISTRY OF FINANCE ABUJA and dated Monday, 15th May, 2017, the aggrieved workers called for speedy intervention to prevent breakdown of the industrial harmony existing in FMC Asaba.
Part of the protest letter reads: “In view of these developments, we the workers of Federal Medical Center Asaba under the umbrella of Joint Health Workers Union (JOHESU), register our displeasure but remain peaceful and resolute on the believe that The Honourable Minister, Director, Presidential Initiative on Continuous Audit (PICA) and all concerned’s attention will be drawn to this and take speedy actions to mitigate the sufferings of our members due to nonpayment of these monies.
“It is our firm believe that the government of change is not about short-changing any particular institution. ”What is sauce for the goose is also good for the gander.”
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: *Patrick Ukah
The Town Hall meetings currently going on between the Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, and the entire people of the state and the commissioning and inspection of projects are fulfilment of a campaign promise that he will come at midterm to meet with the electorate.
Giving this clarification in Asaba over the weekend, the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, said that the government was not cajoled into arranging the Town Hall meetings but packaged them as fulfilment of a campaign promise.
He revealed that the two meetings held so far at Isoko North and Isoko South Local Government Areas provided a perfect platform for Dr. Okowa to meet with critical stakeholders and cross fertilized ideas targeted at fashioning out ways of improving on the gains made by the state as at the midterm of the government.
Mr. Ukah disclosed that the meetings are already achieving the objectives of its arrangement as the people expressed satisfaction because the projects commissioned were direct fulfilment of the campaign promises made by the Governor.
The Commissioner for Information revealed that there was nothing wrong in arranging the Town Hall meetings because in the corporate world, they hold their Annual General Meetings to appraise their performances and work out ways of doing things better in the future.
The Town Hall meetings and commissioning and inspection of projects will continue in Sapele and Ethiope West Local Government Areas on Tuesday and Wednesday, May 16 and 17, 2017.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: Governor Ifeanyi Okowa (middle) during the Town Hall meeting held in Oleh, Isoko South LGA.
The Executive Director (Finance and Administration) at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Bashorun (Hon.) Askia Ogieh, JP, has lauded Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for initiating the on going Town Hall meetings which affords the people at the grassroots level the opportunity to interact with government for proper understanding of its policies and dividends to the people. Gov. Okowa (left) and Bashorun Askia (right) during inspection of Emore Grammar School, Oleh ahead of the Town Hall Meeting.
Bashorun Askia, who made the commendation during the meetings held in Ozoro and Oleh, headquarters of Isoko North and Isoko South local government areas respectively, noted that the parley gave room for the people of Isoko Nation to appraise the government’s impact on the people and make necessary demands.
According to him, “Governor Ifeanyi Okowa felt there is the need for direct connect with the people. It goes to show that he believes in the electorates, having made promises during his campaigns, he has decided to re-examine the level his policies has impacted on the people and where necessary, make possible development impact in the case of infrastructure growth and appointments.”
He also commended the Isoko people for coming out enmasse to throw their overwhelming support behind the governor in a bid to solidify the sustainable development, peace and unity among Deltans.
He however assured that the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa administration is determined to take an immediate action on the various demands with an aim to improve the lives of the people in terms of job creation, appointments and to build trust between government and the people.
While praising the governor for not restricting the interactive sessions to only members of the ruling party in the state, he said it was a pointer to the fact that Governor Okowa is non partisan, detribalized and humble in his approach to effective governance of the state.
Bashorun Askia therefore encouraged the people of Isoko South and Isoko North not to relent in their support, saying “The turnout of our people has proven that the Governor is doing his very best despite the glaring financial challenges being faced in terms of dwindling allocations from the Federal government and poor internally generated revenue receipts.”
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: †Barr. E. A. Uzum The Executive Director to the Delta State Governor, on Orientation and Convener, Ika Village Square, IVS, Barr Eugene Azukaego Uzum, has said that the forthcoming Ika Economic Summit that has been scheduled to take place in June at Ika National Hall, Agbor, will attract both local and foreign investors to Ika Land. The IVS Convener, flanked by other IVS members, who include, the first member, Post Primary Education Board, Mrs. Ifeoma Agbomah and Mr. Alex Okunbor, disclosed this on Tuesday, May 9, 2017, during a press conference organized by IVS at Eagle Square Hotels and Suite, Asaba, ahead of the Ika Economic Summit. According to the Orientation Boss, the summit which is the first in the history of Ika nation promises to be an epoch making event.
Below is the excerpt from the press interview.
SIR COULD YOU PLEASE TELL US WHAT IKA VILLAGE SQUARE STANDS FOR AND ALSO, THE REASON FOR THE IKA ECONOMIC SUMMIT.
Thank you very much. Ika Village Square, IVS,is an online forum created for all persons of Ika ethnic extraction. It is a socio-cultural group, out to articulate, propel, promote and sustain the interest of Ika nation in Nigeria’s political system. It is a forum where ideas on the growth and development of Ika nation are shared. It’s membership comprises all Ika sons and daughters, both home and abroad. It started about a year ago and has since inception, embarked on a tour (Tour D’Ika) of all communities and towns that make up Ika nation. The essence of the tour is for us to identify with our people and the natural resources our land is blessed with. The forum is private sector driven and her aim is purely for the advancement of Ika nation. For the record, Ika nation is blessed with both human and natural resources. There is no community in Ika nation that is not blessed with one natural resources or the other. In Ika Land, we have kaolin, granite, petroleum, potash, bitumen, palm-wine, palm-oil, fertile land, forest reserves, rivers, laterite and other resources. The quantity of the agricultural produce in Ika Land can feed a large number of Nigerians. Also, in Ika Land, we have the source of the Orogodo River in Mbiri, a tourist site, the proposed Umunede Rest Park, Otolokpo Power Plant, among other places of tourist attraction. Ika Land is also a gateway and the potential heart beat of Nigeria as you cannot access the Eastern, Northern, Southern and Western parts of Nigeria without going through Ika Land. Therefore, the reason for this press conference is to announce the forthcoming Ika Economic Summit with the theme, “Harnessing the Economic Potentials of Ika Nation Through Strategic Partnership. “The economic summit is not to veer off the economic plan of the Delta State Government, but, to show our potentials and rich cultural heritage to the world, in order to attract private investors to our land. We are also going to partner with government to see how the economic potentials in Ika Land can be well harnessed. The summit is going to feature the display of those natural resources our land is endowed with and resource persons who have excelled in different fields of human endeavors. We are also going to take a look at the socio-cultural ties that bind us together as a people. For the record, Ika nation has two local government areas in Delta State and four in Edo State. The population of our people if well harnessed can make a political statement in Nigeria. Apart from the natural resources Ika nation is blessed with, the area has sons who have excelled in the banking, media, political, religious, agriculture, advertising, judiciary and other sectors. For the avoidance of doubt, we have notable Ika sons such as; Jim Ovia of Zenith Bank PLC, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, of Thisday Newspaper, Steve Omojafor of the advertising agency, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, the executive Governor of Delta State, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, His Eminence, Rt Revd Dr Nicholas N. Okoh, Primate of the Anglican Communion, Church of Nigeria, Prof Sam Ukala, SAN, Chairman, Governing Council, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, General Lucky Irabor Theatre Commander, Operation Lafia Dole, among others, including the names of our legends of blessed memories like: Dr Okah Orewa, Chief Anuku, Chief Vincent Egbarin (The Orikeze of Agbor), and others too numerous to mention. We are therefore welcoming the whole world to the Ika Economic Summit taking place in June this year at Ika National Hall, Agbor. The date of the summit will be announced soon.
HOW IS THE IKA ECONOMIC SUMMIT GOING TO ASSIST THE SMART AGENDA OF THE DELTA STATE GOVERNMENT?
Our executive governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, in our judgment is the Chief custodian of prosperity in the state. His policies as governor are all people-oriented. One of the aims of the summit is to partner with the state government by keying into her programs, particularly, on job creation and agriculture. Ika Village Square perfectly understands the SMART Agenda of the state government towards the overall development of the state and will always support the efforts to better the state.
YOU SAID THE IKA ECONOMIC SUMMIT WILL BE PRIVATE SECTOR DRIVEN, HOW DOES IVS INTEND TO ACHIEVE THAT IN THIS PERIOD OF ECONOMIC RECESSION?
Thank you. The journey of a thousand miles they say begins with a step. IVS has redefined that statement by saying that the journey of a thousand miles starts with a mere understanding that you have a journey to embark on and when to move. So, you can even be on your bed and start the journey. Our people are determined to contribute resources towards the success of the economic summit. We successfully did it during the tour of the different communities and towns in Ika Land, so that of the summit will not be different. According to our local adage, “Onu kokome Ogbu Ofifi,” meaning, if a mouth is closed together it will blow whistle. I am therefore, on behalf of IVS, using this medium to call on our dear people of Ika nation both home and abroad to work towards the success of this economic summit which is out to promote our land among other ethnic nationalities in Nigeria.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (midle); his Deputy, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro (right) and Hon. Minister, Youth and Sports, Comrade (Barr.) Solomon Dalung, during the 6th Delta State Sport Sports Festival, at Delta State Polytechnic Ozoro Stadium.
The 6th Delta State Sports Festival ended on Friday, May 12, 2017 at Ozoro with Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa promising his administration’s commitment to ensure that the state will continue to excel in national sports events.
Speaking when he declared the festival closed, Governor Okowa asserted, “it is an open secret that the constant successes achieved by Delta State in national competitions is largely due to this grassroots support for sports.”
He reiterated government’s determination to ensure that the State continues to play a leading role in the development of sports in the country, promising to make the Sports Festival a yearly event, and providing more avenues for youths to productively engage in sporting activities.From right: Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, Honorable Minister for Youths and Sports, Comrade Solomon Dalung
At the closing ceremony, Warri North local government area clinched the first position with 39 gold medals to beat its closest rival, Oshimili South local government area which got 30 gold medals, while Ukwuani local government area got 29 gold medals.
While commending the various local government areas who contributed to the promotion of sports at the grassroots, the Governor observed, ” sporting activities are vital areas where our young men and women can be meaningfully engaged; they keep the young ones busy and away from delinquent behaviours and youth restiveness in all its ramifications; besides, it also gives opportunity to develop their talents on their way to national and international prominence.”
While promising to support sports development through the reintroduction of the School Sports Competition, the Governor commended the Sports Commission and the athletes for their contributions to sports development. Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah (right) Chairman, Delta State Sport Commission, Chief Tonobok Okowa, during the 6th Delta State Sport Sports Festival, at Delta State Polytechnic Ozoro Stadium.
The Minister of Sports, Honourable Solomon Dalung, who was the Special Guest of Honour, in his speech, acknowledged the contributions of Delta State in taking Nigeria to greater heights through sports development, asserting that the state has produced quality sportsmen and women who have represented the country in major sporting events in Africa and other parts of the world.
He commended Governor Okowa for his commitment to sports development, noting that sports had contributed immensely to the sustenance of peace in the state.
The Chairman, Delta State Sports Commission Chief Tonobok Okowa said talents which were discovered during the festival would be assets to the State in future National and International sporting activities.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: CP Delta Police Command, Zanna Blank NEWS Online can authoritatively report that tension has enveloped parts of Delta state as youths in Ossissa, Ndokwa East local government area of the state have taken up arms in protest against Fulani herdsmen for allegedly killing six persons in the community.
A source at Ossissa disclosed that the incident of the killing, allegedly carried out by the Fulani herdsmen took place on Thursday, May 11, 2017, which spurred youths in the peace loving community to come all out in search for the armed Fulani herdsmen, who launched a surprise attack on unsuspecting members of the community.
As at the time of filing this report, the Ossissa end of the Asaba-Ughelli express road was partially barricaded while vehicles were searched to fish out herdsmen who may be hiding in any of the vehicles, but under the watch of Military and police personnel as well as other security operatives drafted to the scene to restore normalcy.
A number of private and commercial vehicles were stuck at the Nsukwa junction, having heard of the blockade while others plied alternative routes to their various destinations, yet in fear.
When Blank NEWS Online visited the scene of the barricade at 10:45 am, a number of security personnel were on ground to ward off any form of mayhem on innocent travellers.
Many of the aggrieved youths who expressed their dismay at the handling of the nefarious activities of the deadly herdsmen by governments were armed with clubs and cutlasses as they conducted a stop and search on vehicles for hiding herdsmen.
When contacted on phone, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Andrew Aniamaka said he was awaiting detailed report from the DCO Ashaka Division, adding the the AC Operations was already on ground in Ossissa with his men to ensure normalcy.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: IgbuyaSheriff Oborevwori, new Delta Speaker
In what could be termed “good riddance” in the legislature, the Delta State House of Assembly Speaker, Hon. Monday Ovwigho Igbuya has been impeached.
His unpredicted impeachement was carefully hatched by the legislators in the early hours of this morning, Thursday, May 11, 2017, during a session of the state House of Assembly.
Igbuya’s impeachment was signed by 22 out of the 29 members of the state’s legislative assembly.
Igbuya was immediately replaced with the lawmaker representing Okpe constituency, Sheriff Oborevwori as the new speaker.
The House at the plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Friday Osanebi, also sacked Hon Tim Owhofere as majority leader and elected Hon Johnson Erijo in his place.
Earlier moves to impeach Igbuya in the past were scuttled due to leakeages of classified information in the plot.
A Delta Assembly legislator who pleaded anonimity is quoted to have said: “Igbuya is known to have negated the rules of the House and has portrayed the leadership of the House in bad light by openly jettisoning laws made by the legislature to suit his personal interest.”
Meanwhile, embattled Igbuya instead of reacting from his hideout, has instead issued a statement signed on behalf of the Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Cairo Ojougboh.
The statement made available to Blank NEWS Online by Henry Ebireri, media aide to the ousted speaker also indicates that Igbuya has been a clog in wheel of progress in the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa administration.
Governor Okowa is an avowed supporter of the Markafi led faction against that of Sherrif in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The statement signed by Mr. B Alli, Personal Assistant to the Deputy National Chairman, PDP reads:
“The attention of Hon. Cairo Ojougboh, the Deputy National Chairman of the PDP have been drawn to the criminal removal of Hon. Monday Igbuya as Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Asaba.
“Dr. Cairo Ojougboh in a statement issued in Abuja today, 11th May, 2017 has advised Hon. Monday Igbuya not to despair that his removal is a victory for his person and the genuine democratic forces in Delta state. He also says that Igbuya was removed from office because he accompanied His Excellency, Chief James Ibori to visit the governor and good people of Bayelsa State. His problem with Gov. Okowa started immediately after that visit but we must state that Hon. Monday Igbuya has served creditably well and we are proud of his services to the people of Delta State.
“Gov. Okowa should be reminded that power belongs to God and that it is transient. He should also be reminded that eight years is not forever and therefore, be mindful of how he treats people while in power.”
*Facts about Delta State House of Assembly Speaker’s impeachment process…
– The impeachment process occurred as early as 6:am;
– 22 Members signed the Impeachment Notice;
– 21 Members plus the Clerk of the House were present at the sitting;
– The Assembly premises was reported to be cordoned off by Armedpersonnel.
– The Members moved to the Government House to meet with Governor Okowa just after the Impeachment.
– Delta State House of Assembly workers are in a jubilant mood;
– Activities at the Delta State Government House has been grounded as negotiations are currently on-going;
– The Sitting was presided over by the Deputy Speaker;
– The impeached speaker has been slapped with a three months suspension;
– The Majority Leader, Barr. Tim Ohwofere was also suspended. The Length of the suspension not yet confirmed but reports indicates that he was hammered with an indefinite suspension;
– Hon. Johnson Erijo now Majority leader of Delta State house of Assembly;
– Reasons for the impeachment not yet revealed but might not be so far from the recent face-off between some top members in the House.
Watch out for more details only in…..Blank NEWS Online
The 6th Edition of the Delta State Sports Festival, tagged Unity Games, has kicked off in Ozoro, Isoko North local government area.
Declaring the festival open, the state governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa who was represented by Mr. Oghenekaro Ilolo, Commissioner for Urban Renewal recalled that the sports festival started in 1973 under Dr. Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia.*Ilolo
He stated that the festival was designed to foster unity, friendship, understanding and mutual respect among the teeming youth of the state adding that sporting activities form part of the state government SMART agenda targeted towards empowerment of the youth.
He therefore called on youths to avail themselves of the opportunites offered by the festival and venture into sporting activities as a vocation which can earn them a living, urging the participants to exhibit a true spirit of sportsmanship while the officials should conduct the sporting events without manipulations.
While insisting that the state government will not renege on its determination to groom sports talents across the state, Governor Okowa promised to bring sports to the forefront of his administration’s development initiatives.
Earlier in his address, the Executive Chairman, Mr. Tonobok Okowa stated that although the Unity Games had become moribund in the past, his Commission was determined to revive the festival and it has come to state, adding that sports talent hunts cannot be undermined.
He commended Governor Okowa for ensuring its revival, which serves as a testimony of his love for grassroots sports. He also praised the efforts of the various local government chairmen for providing the enabling environment for the festival.
The Sports Commission boss stated that the sports festival is a veritable avenue for youths to develop their sporting potential adding that sporting activities is one of the highest paid vocation worldwide. *Ukah
In his remarks, the state Commissioner for Information and Chairman Publicity Sub-Committee, Mr. Patrick Ukah said the sports festival is a unifying force put in place to hasten peaceful co-existence among Deltans.
The Sports Festival which was held last in 2005 is being organized by the Delta State Sports Commission, headed by its Executive Chairman, Mr. Tonobok Okowa with participants drawn from the 25 local governments in the state.
The sports fiesta is billed to hold between May 8th and 12th.
Facts from the Commission indicates that the opening and closing ceremonies will hold at the Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro Sports Stadium, while all indoor sports will take place at the Asaba Indoors Sports Hall, Swimming at Obiaruku and Cycling in Agbor respectively.
The festival, targeted at building up grassroots sports and grooming talents from the rural parts of the state has been described as a welcome development by sports pundits and enthusiasts, but not without complaints of having been untapped by successive governments in the state.
Two amateur football clubs, Ika Rangers FC and Isoko United FC locked horns to hallmark the opening ceremony.
Highpoint of the event was the arrival of the festival touch tagged Unity Touch and lighting of the festival fame, followed by march past by contingents from the 25 local government areas of the state as well as cultural and musical performances by the Delta state Arts Council and Fretless Band respectively.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Patrick Ukah, Delta Commissioner for Information
Journalists have been advised to uphold their professional code of ethics at all times.
The State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, gave the advice in a press statement to felicitate with Journalists in Delta State on the occasion of the World Press Freedom Day celebrated yesterday with the theme “Critical Minds for Critical Times: Media’s Role in Advancing Peaceful, Just and Inclusive Societies”.
Mr. Ukah said when Journalists learn to work according to the ethics of the profession, they would enjoy the protection of the Constitution, which according to him, is strong enough to defend them.
The Commissioner expressed joy that Journalists enjoy freedom in the course of carrying out their jobs in the state, stating that the administration of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa had always maintained a cordial working relationship with the Press.
He said that Pressmen all over the world, and in particular our own environment, should learn to work according to the ethics of the business, stressing that if that is done, Pressmen will continue to enjoy freedom of the press because the constitution is strong enough to defend pressmen in the country.
“As a government, we are particularly happy because we have had a very good relationship with the media because we allowed them the freedom to do their job,” the Commissioner stated.
While paying glowing tribute to journalists who died in the course of duty, he encouraged practicing journalists to keep the flag flying by ensuring that they imbibe the ideals the fallen heroes stood for.
As the global community marked the World Press Freedom Day with the theme, Critical Minds for Critical Times, Media Role in Advancing Peace, Just and Inclusive Society on Wednesday, May 03, 2017, Blank NEWS Online brings to you a thought provoking yet interesting insight into the real business of professional journalism in this exclusive interview with Mr. Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu, Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Delta state governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa. *Charles Ehiedu AniagwuExcerpts:
Que:Freedom of the press and expression are fundamental human rights which must be upheld. Do you think there is absolute freedom of the press in Nigeria?
Ans:Freedom of the press is not fundamental. Freedom of expression is fundamental. We need to separate them. For you to express yourself and be free is fundametal. Fundamental means that it is inalienable and they cant take it away from you but that of the freedom of the press, for you to write is not inalienable. Those other ones are given to you by God. The one of the press is your on volition. You either choose to become a practitioner or you are employed and somebody gives you responsibilities but to express yourself is natural.
Now having made that distinction, let us even ask ourselves what is the essence of the World Press Freedom Day. For us to be able to appreciate it, we must also first know the role of the media. If you narrow it down to Nigeria, as to what the media is, Section 22 of the Nigerian constitution is very clear. It says that the media’s responsibility is to hold government accountable to the people. It may not have provided for journalists but since journalists are the ones that operate the media, it invariably means that the journalist is in a vantage position to be able to hold government accountable to the people. Be that as it may, the question now is what is our responsibilities viz a viz the expectations of those we are going to hold accountable. The first responsibility is just as it is in John 8: 17 in the Holy Bible when Jesus Christ said for you to cast the first stone on the harlot, you must make sure that you don’t have blemishes. So in which case, you must come to equity with clean hands. Having said that, if you narrow it down to this year’s theme which talks about critical minds for critical times, the question is how critical are you in your mind? How informed are you to go to look at the critical times and what it takes to also report the critical times and what makes this time critical?
This particular time in Nigeria is critical because there is an attempt to emasculate these responsibilities given to the media by the present government. Examples abound of different aspects of non observance of the rule of law. And when we report the activities of government, we must take away sentiments that you see today. Let me give you one example of such sentiments. When the Federal Government released the Paris Club refunds to the states, the media joined members of the public to say that the Federal government have asked the states to use the funds to pay salaries without first of all looking at the powers of the Federal government viz a viz the constitutionally guaranteed powers of the state as an independent tier of government.
So the Federal government cannot become the headmaster that can just pick up a cane and say a teacher must teach in tthe classroom. The Federal government is not supposed to dictate for the the States how to spend the money that belongs to the state because that money belongs to the state. The Federal government can only advise on what the state is expected to do. The state is bound to define its priorities and apply these funds in line with its own priorities. But what did the media do? The media said they say you should go and pay salaries. What if everybody is about dying on account of Meningitis? Between saving the lives of the people and paying teachers’ salaries, which one becomes a priority to such state? Now assuming without conceding that we are not owing teachers’ salaries and the Federal government has advised that states should go and pay salaries, do we keep such money somewhere until such a year or time that we begin to owe salaries? The media needed to move away from the sentiments of members of the public who assume that salaries must be paid and then look at the powers of the Federal government to be able to advise because it is not a bail out fund.
Coming back to the essence of the World Press Freedom Day, it is also a day just like the Labour Day for us to remember our matyrs who have died in the course of the business of journalism because the business of journalism is to hold “Big Boys” accountable to the people and often times they don’t want to be accountable. These “Big Boys” are inherently dangerous in their own approach in most instances. I am using the word “Big Boys” because I am not talking about only politicians, even some businessmen, even some other persons who are in the work places who want to cut corners. The Media is the one who is supposed to expose them and make sure that they are accountable and sometimes for them not to be accountable, they do the untoward. The case in point is that of Dele Giwa. In the course of the press freedom day, you are able to remember the martyrs. In the course of the press freedom day, you are also able to look back on how well have you also have been able to exercise your responsibilities given to you within the context of social responsibility. In which case, how developmental are you in your reportage?
The four-way test also in the media, as to whether is it for the common good? In which case, even if you want to expose corruption and such exposé can drag the government into the mud and finish the entire society, you keep it. There is a theory that talks about to report and be damned. Do I just report? It doesn’t matter what happens or do I first of all look at it to see if it is for the good of the majority? All those things come in when you are doing your press freedom, to be able to remember the milestones. What are the impediments? How do we cross them? What are we not doing properly and we are able to draw attention to it? What step do we need to take to improve? How do we also remember those who have paid the supreme sacrifice so that others who are alive are not intimidated by what must have happened to those who passed on?
Que:Which are the areas you think that media personnel can improve on in the discharge of their duties?
Ans:The most important thing is for us to be confident. That is what we lack at the moment. There is a dearth of confidence on the part of the journalist. No thanks to poverty. A situation whereby a journalist wants to ask you questions and he first of all look at whether the question will make him make more money or will it make him not to make more money. That brings about self defeatism in the first place and having been defeated in terms of your self esteem, the ability to churn out with the necessary question that would now conform with your requirements as stated in Section 22 of the Constitution becomes already compromised because you have now engaged in self sensorship. Once you begin to self sensor yourself, you are not even able to ask the necessary question. Self confidence is the number one important step.
Number two, the journalist must also, like the critical mind be well informed. Some journalists have locked up their mind and become parochial in their approach to how they view things and do not want to use an expanded lens to have a much more focal view of the subject matter. That is also another challenge. But a much more interesting challenge is the challenge now posed by citizen journalism. Thanks to the proliferation of ICT, especially in the area of the Internet which have made it possible for people to take advantage of the New Media to report without subjecting such report to the crucibles of editorial principles and those reports are based on sentiments. It is not a crime to the extent that these are some of the latitudes allowed in a democratic setting. It is a challenge because most journalists now go to the New Media to take reports and then flash it as if that is the true position. That principle of cross-checking the facts is now buried. It is also a major challenge that we need to take à look at.
Que:Apart from some of these shortcomings in the eyes of the public, the media is also a catalyst which promotes information and strategies that helps socio-economic and political developments as well as peace and integration. Would you say they have operated within reasonabe ethical standards?
Ans:There is one particular adage which says, you don’t go into a rotten mouth and begin to look for healthy teeth. The mouth is rotten, expectedly the teeth within that buccal cavity is also expected to be rotten. How do I mean? The journalist operates within the context of the society that is rotten, that is plagued by these many other social adversities. That being the case, it means that the journalist is not exempted from that plague that has gotten the better part of the politician, that has gotten the better part of the teacher who leaves the children in the classroom and begin to sell things by the roadside in the form of private practice, and gotten all facets of our society. What has that done to the journalist? It means that the journalist have also gradually abandoned what is expected of him to hold the government accountable.
Be that as it may, to a reasonable extent, the journalism profession in Nigeria have also helped in the entrenchment of democratic principles and norms in Nigeria because journalism in this case, is like Christianity where you have the Churches. Individuals have had cause to say there is proliferation of crime in the midst of growing spiritual base of practitioners. The question is, if there were no Churches, what would the society have been? So, if there were no Journalists, what would politicians and those saddled with the responsibility of governing would have done? Perhaps, they would have become much more corrupt in terms of the use of power. Dont forget the views of A. V. Dicey and then coupled with the issue of Montesquieu in terms of separation of power. In the case of A. V. Dicey, it was very clear in terms of the Rule of Law that absolute power corrupts absolutely. So, if there were no media practitioners, most powerful people would have become so drunk because in politics, morality is first of all pushed to the background. It becomes more of exigencies of the time and when such exigencies clash with your own desire to progress in a certain direction, the tendency is that you would want to give much more strength to the one that favours you. But with the position of journalists and media practitioners at large, those notoriety are able to hold back a little because they are also interested in maintaining their integrity even when they are thick, they want to be painted clear. To that extent, the activities of the media practitioners have also helped for us to have a saner society.
That could we benefit from much more intuitive position on the mouth of the journalist? Yes, we could. It is work in progress. I believe that if we progress along that trajectory, we are most likely to have much more progress in the entrenchment of democratic principles and ethos.
Que:The media, as the Fourth Estate of the Realm monitors performances of institutions and report activities of governments but often times some of the practitioners are improsoned, maimed or even killed in the line of duty. What do you think can be done to check these actions against practicing journalists?
Ans:Thank you very much. You are very correct but first of all, like I said earlier in terms of critical examination of also the responsibilities of the media, there are certain facts we must tell ourselves. When a media practitioner also progresses in error because he believes that he has a responsibility to hold the government accountable, he fails to realize that he must come to that equity with very clean hands. In a number of instances, media practitioners, believing that that sole responsibility of holding the government accountable have been vested in them by the laws of the land progress in the direction that is untoward, unprofessional and begin to malign the credibility and integrity of these individuals just because they hold public office and when you malign the credibility of an individual because you think you are a media practitioner, you are also bound to be subjected to the crucibles of the legal process.
That is to say that it is not everybody that is imprisoned is imprisoned unjustly. The media practitioners have not also been immune from these legal processes if they progress in error, whether it is using the law of libel or other such laws, we are also expected to operate within certain frame recognised by the law.
Having said that, there have also been instances of those in authority taking the powers in their hands and then not wanting the media to report issues the way they are because reporting the way they are may either bring them down or would do something that might not be palatable either to their integrity or to those they think they love. So, to that extent there is risk. There is usually a very thin line with having to hold people accountable and having to report based on the conviction that you are really doing that and not for your own selfish reasons.
Sometimes, people just wake up and say there is oppression, that in the last one year, 20 journalists have been killed. We must ask ourselves a question. If they threw a bomb when you are filing a report and you die, is that oppression? There are other people who died in the course of that bomb. You are only just unfortunate to be at the scene. So when they count the number of journalists who have lost their lives in the course of the profession, they must be able to draw the difference between those who died their natural death in the course of the action because other persons were affected and they couldn’t have been exempted because they are journalists and those who were shot because they are doing some form of probing. But often times, we jam all of them and say in the last one year we lost these number of journalists. It paints a picture that is not too clear and too current.
Que:Would you say the media have fared well under the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration?
Ans:Very well. The media has fared well and the reason for that is not in terms of whether we have given them the necessary welfare. Its in terms of allowing them that media space. Hundred percent, we have allowed the media space even to the extent of allowing those who could not report facts. We just assume that that is their own level of understanding and we have always done it too to try to clarify the issues with a view to getting them informed and assuming they are not actually intending to be mischievous because if somebody wants to be mischievous even when you are correcting him, you are only wasting time because he already know the facts but just want to be mischievous. To that extent, we have done well in encouraging the free space under which the media practitioners can effectively operate and maybe carry out their business.
In terms of the other welfare packages, we may not pat ourselves in the back because our resources have been so dealt with, going back to the issue of healthy teeth in a rotten mouth. So if we don’t have the money to do the things we needed to do, the journalists and their welfare cannot also be an exception. But in this last two years, I can beat my chest and say that we have done much more reasonable than anybody can imagine. Today, as we speak by the Grace of God, the Nigerian Union of Journalist’s Press Centre is almost completed within a space of two years of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration and that is a state that have existed for more than 24 years. Before we came in, they didn’t have that. Today, as we speak, a number of Chapels are beginning to have much more conducive Secretariat and that wasn’t the situation when we came in. So its a question of us having left the shore and the ship is sailing smoothly.
We may not have gotten to the harbour but the fact is that every other thing is going to the positive direction and we are optimistic that if we continue along that trajectory, we are likely to make more progress.
We must also commend the practitioners in Delta state. They have been very wonderful. They have shown a lot of cooperation that inspite of the hard times, they didn’t take the frustration on us and we are hoping that God willing, we are able to also meet them half way so that it becomes a win win situation for all of us.
Que:As a media practitioner, what is your word of advice to journalists operating in Delta state?
“The programme is financed by a US$ 500,000,000 International Development Association credit to the Federal Republic of Nigeria over a period of four years with each state receiving US$1,500,000.” –Dr. Nicholas Azinge
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa (right) with Dr. Nicholas Azinge
The Delta State Government has initiated a project for the development of Vaccine Production Facility in Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Azinge, who stated this during the 2017 World Malaria Day broadcast in Asaba, said the project was championed by the Ministry of Health which initiated collaboration between DELSUTH and Merck Biopharmaceutical Company.
Azinge, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Minnie Oseji, noted that the project, in line with Governor Okowa administration’s SMART Agenda, will create job opportunities and generate income for the state, once it was actualised.
He also disclosed that the project will further provide an enabling environment to attract researchers to Nigeria for the development of new vaccines.
While calling on local and international investors to contribute to the venture, he revealed that Ghana, Kenya and Malawi have been selected to pilot the world’s first malaria vaccine (Mosquirix) from 2018.
Azinge disclosed that through the timely intervention of Governor Okowa, the state became a beneficiary of the Saving One Million Lives Programme for Results, a programme initiated by the Federal Government on maternal and child health, supported by the World Bank.
According to him, “The programme is financed by a US$ 500,000,000 International Development Association credit to the Federal Republic of Nigeria over a period of four years with each state receiving US$1,500,000.
He said that malaria control was one of the six pillars the programme was expected to address, adding that it will provide for strengthening community participation in distribution of long lasting insecticide treated nets with the use of trained community volunteers, who will distribute, install and conduct house to house sensitisation on the use of the nets.
The Commissioner said that the programme will also ensure the provision of long lasting insecticide treated nets to all pregnant women and children under-five who attend Ante-natal and Child Welfare Clinics, as well as collaborate with Private Health providers for wider distribution of the long lasting insecticide treated nets.
He called on the general public to cooperate with the health ministry and ensure judicious utilisation of the nets to enable the state score high enough and attract more funds when the programme is evaluated.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Patrick Ukah, Delta Commissioner for Information
Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, has called on the Federal Government and the Inspector General of Police, Idris Abubakar, to take urgent and proactive steps in disarming Fulani Herdsmen in the state and elsewhere so as to prevent total breakdown of law and order in the country.
Mr. Ukah, in an interview in Asaba, lamented the youths uprising that led to the vandalization of the palace of a royal father and other properties in Abraka communities, adding that the Federal Government and the law enforcement agents are not doing enough to stop the broad daylight slaughtering of innocent farmers across the state.
The Commissioner for Information said that the state government will continue to prevail on the Federal Government to do something very urgent because the situation is taking a different dimension.
According to Mr. Ukah, “The state government will not encourage our people and the youths to take laws into their hands but it is obvious that the police and APC Federal Government have shown sufficient lukewarm attitude towards the arrest and prosecution of the Fulani Herdsmen who are regularly killing our men, raping women and defiling young girls in their farmlands after feeding their cattles with cassava, yams and other cash crops. This development is ridiculous and the state government is worried and concerned about the plight of our people and families affected by the criminal activities of Fulani Herdsmen”.
He stated that the State House of Assembly is currently working on a bill in respect of the criminal activities of Fulani Herdsmen in the state, assuring that by the time the bill is passed, the Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, will not hesitate to sign it into law.
The Commissioner for Information disclosed that the state government will continue to appeal to the people not to take laws into their hands, but the security agents and the Buhari administration must realise that they are foot dragging in this matter which is why some persons are now left with the option of reprisals resulting in the wanton destruction of properties as a way of venting their anger.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Prosper Edo: Bashorun Askia addressing the mammoth crowd.
OLOMORO – It was a mammoth gathering of PDP Elders, Leaders, Stakeholders and party faithfuls of Isoko South Constituency 2 in a Get – Together meeting at High Chief Dr. Idodo Umeh compound, Olomoro, Isoko South LGA, Delta State.
The gathering afforded the PDP family the opportunity to merry and reflect on the happenings in the party.
Bashorun Askia Ogieh, Sen. Chief Mrs Stella Unuezi Omu, High Chief Dr. Idodo Umeh all spoke in unison in support for true unity among party members, appealing to all members to remain steadfast and sustain the unity in the party.
In an opening remark, the Isoko South PDP LGA Chairman, Mr. Raphael Odorewu expressed deep satisfaction and appreciation to all who honoured the invitation and came. The LGA Chairman used the opportunity to present over 100 members of the APC in Aviara Ward 03 who decamped to the PDP to the Chairman, Delta South Senatorial District Chief Emmanuel Agbaduba. The Delta South Senatorial Chairman on behalf of the State Party Chairman received the decampees.
The Isoko South LGA Chairman recounted how the decampees expressed happiness over the developmental strides of His Excellency the Governor of Delta State Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa and thus decided to join the PDP. They were warmly received in an LGA meeting on Thursday 27th April, 2017, at the PDP Secretariat at Oleh by the Aviara Ward 03 Chairman Mr. England Omodero who then presented them to the LGA Chairman who received them on behalf of the Isoko South PDP family.
Addressing the mammoth crowd of PDP faithfuls, Bashorun Askia Ogieh expressed deep satisfaction in the unity in the Party and urge all Party faithfuls to go out and win more people from the opposition parties to the PDP.
A visibly elated Bashorun Askia pledged to join forces with the leadership of any Ward were they have difficulties in wooing opposition parties members to the PDP fold.
The highlight of the ceremony was a resounding vote of confidence passed on Gov Okowa and an endorsement for a second term as Governor of Delta State.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
The Alanza Oduah of Oko-Ogbele, Chief Dr. Benjamin Anwasia JP has expressed pity and disgust at the ignorance of one Onihe Odumegwu Nwanze over his written reaction published in this medium in reaction to his recently launched book on Oko history.
Chief Anwasia said that in a press statement while reacting to the said publication in this medium titled: “RE: HISTORY OF OKO WRITTEN BY CHIEF B N ANWASIA,” wherein he (Onihe Odumegwu Nwanze) exposed his crass ignorance by raining unprintable vituperations on his person for his painstaking efforts through research of many years to put together a book on the history of his beloved place of birth, Oko kingdom.
He said that he will not join issues with him, bearing in mind that he and his cohorts are acting in ignorance, sheer malice and frustration, having been denied claim to the Onisheship of Oko Amakom by a court of competent jurisdiction in 1997, which case is still in the Supreme Court and therefore, will amount to subjudice if he belittles his knowledge of judicial processes for people who do not deserve this response.
Quoting from a High Court judgement of November 4, 1997, titled Enrolment of Judgement in suit no. A/147/94 before His Lordship, Honourable Justice M.C.U. Odita made available to the press, Chief Anwasia said that Odumegwu Nwanze has no legal or customary claim to the title of Onihe that he claims since the aforesaid court jugement indicate as follows; “from the totality of the evidence before me, which I have seriously considered … I declare that the Uwaile Quarters of Oko Amakom which the defendants represent is not entitled to install or to have any person from that quarter installed the Onihe of Oko Amakom.
“An order of injunction restraining the defendants and their people of Uwaile from holding out any person from Uwaile Quarter as the Onihe of Oko Amakom or for any person from Uwaile Quarter of Oko Amakom parading himself as the Onihe of Oko Amakom or from doing anything in contravention of the rights and privileges of the Onihe of Oko Amakom……”
He advised Odumegwu Nwanze to either undergo his own research and come up with his own book on the history of Oko or commission somebody to do so for him as it is obvious that he lacks the ingredients and frame of mind to appreciate good academic research, at least to prove how much of a distortion his book is and for posterity to vindicate him.
Chief Anwasia also urged reasonable people to read the book and make their own objective judgement. He also advised and encouraged any person, group, interest or community that feels misrepresented to take legal action if they feel aggrieved.
On Odumegwu Nwanze’s claim that “It is also interesting to note that Chief B N Anwasia real lineage in Oko History is allegedly still in doubt,” Chief Anwasia said that as a law abiding citizen of this country, he is discussing with his lawyers and will take action at the appropriate time.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
The High Court of Justice, sitting at Otor-Udu, Delta State and presided over by Hon. Justice C.E Achilefu (Mrs.) today Friday, the 28th day of April, 2017 in Suit No: OUHC/111/2016 OGHENEJABOR IKIMI, ESQ., VS. GOVERNOR OF DELTA STATE AND 2 OTHERS, declared the collection of the Passengers Welfare Scheme levy and the daily Motorcycle and Tricycle Taxes collected from operators of Motorcycle and Tricycle in Delta State as illegal since same is contrary to the provisions of Part II of the Schedule to the Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Act, 2004 (as amended).
The Court also declared the assessment and collection of taxes and levies by private tax consultants or private individuals or bodies as illegal as same contravenes the provisions of Sections 2 (1), 3 and 4 of the Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Act, 2004 (as amended) the Court further declared that the Delta State Government cannot collect any tax or levy not listed in Part II of the Schedule to the Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Act, 2004 (as amended).
Consequently, Hon Justice C.E. Achilefu (Mrs.) further restrained the Delta State Government perpetually from further using private tax consultants or private individual or bodies from assessing and collecting Taxes and Levies on behalf of the State.
The Court also went further to restrain the Delta State Government perpetually from further collecting Passenger’s Welfare levies from commuters in the State and Motorcycle and Tricycle taxes from Motorcycle and Tricycle operators in the State as same contravened the provisions of Part II of the Schedule to the Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Act, 2004 (as amended).
The Court also restrained the Delta State Government from further collecting taxes and levies from her Citizens which are not listed in Part II of the Schedule to the taxes and levies (Approved List for Collection) Act, 2004 (as amended).
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
A former Counsellor and a Staff of Delta State Judiciary to die by hanging for stabbing his co-flatmate’s wife to death
A Delta State High Court sitting at Ughelli Judicial Division has sentenced one Narebor Stephen Donbrapade, a staff of the Delta State Judiciary to death by hanging for using a kitchen knife to stab his co-flatmate’s wife to death.
The Court presided over by Honourable Justice F. O. Ohwo in suit number UHC/21c/13 in State Vs Narebor Stephen Donbrapade found the accused guilty on a one count charge of murder proffered against him by the State Attorney-General through the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The accused, a 49 year old Administrative Staff of the Delta State Judiciary from Esama town in Bomadi Local Government Area, on or about the 31st day of January, 2013 at Otobor Street, within the Ughelli Judicial Division, murdered one Stella Avwenayerhe by stabbing on her on the chest, an offence punishable under section 319 of the Criminal Code Cap C.21, Volume 1, Laws of Delta State, 2006.
Narebor Stephen Donbrapade popularly known as “Honourable” shares a room in a three bedroom flat with the husband of the deceased located at No 15 Otobo Street Ughelli with a separate entrance to his room. On the fateful day, the accused and the victim were said to have had a minor altercation after he walked through the rug in the sitting room without removing his shoes. The altercation occurred after being reprimanded by the deceased. To teach his co-flatmate’s wife a lesson for having the audacity to challenge him, the accused was reported to have dashed into his room only to appear with a knife and immediately stabbed Stella Avwenayerhe on the chest. She was confirmed dead on arrival by doctors at the Ughelli Central hospital where she was rushed to by neighbors who came to her rescue.
In his defense, the accused who pleaded not guilty to the one count charge alleged that the victim was stabbed to death by some unidentified hoodlums in the area.
While delivering the death verdict, Justice F.O. Ohwo of the Ughelli High Court ruled that he disbelieved the accused whom he described as not a witness of truth and believed the evidences of the four prosecution witnesses called by an Assistant Director in the Ministry of Justice including the husband of the deceased, Mr. Lucky Okorodudu. He further ruled that prosecution proved beyond all reasonable doubt the essential ingredients of the offence of murder against the accused person. “I hereby sentence you to death by hanging on the neck until you be dead, may God have mercy on your soul” Justice Ohwo ruled.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –BY Johnson EBIGIDE: Johnson Ebigide
The Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary of contemporary English Language defines corruption simply as ‘’ dishonest or illegal behaviour, especially of people in authority’’ . That is, corruption is using ones official power dishonestly and illegally for personal aggrandizement and undue advantage over others. When the law empowers an individual to make use of his statutory position for the welfare of the generality of members of the society, but he decides to turn around, using such entrusted power to defraud the society for his personal gains, such an individual is said to be corrupt.
However, one form of corrosive corruption that is ravaging the country is when a government establishment or institution uses the law establishing it to rip off members of the public in the name of revenue generation, and sometimes for the purpose of forceful protection of the interest of the citizens; unsolicited protection that keeps the protected economically depraved. Laws, from the Mosaic days till date, are primarily made for the smooth coordination of human affairs and relationship in the society. Even the Orwellian animals knew the importance of law; although the more clever ones among them like some Nigerians saw to the falsification of the generally accepted made laws to safeguard their personal livelihood against the welfare of the majority other animals
Contemporary Nigeria is replete with many institutions applying the laws establishing them in a corrupt propensity so much so that but for the fearlessness and commitment of a few elite Nigerians in confronting them legally and frontally, the masses would have been suffering serious disadvantages in the name of enforcement. The Nigerian Police ‘’force’’, the Army, Customs, National Drug Laws Enforcement Agency(NDLEA), NAFDAC, EFCC, FRSC and other traffic regulatory establishments, Code of Conduct Bureau, National Pension Commission, INEC, and even the law making institutions, to mention just a few, are enmeshed in institutional corruption.
For example, sometime ago, the Federal Road Safety Corps(FRSC), the statutory role of which is primarily to ensure safe monitoring on the highways felt that its role was not enormous enough and had gone ahead through the national law making organs for greater statutory strength to enforce the replacement of old vehicle plate numbers in the country. Desirable as that move could have been if the new plate numbers were not simply a recodification and designing of same features of the old ones in a reversed mode, owners of such vehicles were to pay for fresh registration of their vehicles before their old plate numbers were to be replaced. But for the general outcry and the spirited effort of a Lagos-based lawyer, such a rip off would have been entrenched in the country.
Only recently, the National Pension Commission, published yet another horrifying threat to employers of labour, particularly concerning the civil service. The core message is that employers henceforth must deduct forcefully certain premium from the latter’s monthly salaries, adding in a note of finally that the troubled contributory Pension scheme already on ground is now incomplete without the present insurance scheme. To a cursory observer this move is quite laudable, but a critical inward analysis of pension administration in the country would further send the jitters down the spines of the already financially crawling civil servants in the country.
The fear of pension days is becoming depressing for even the regular civil servants, who are still in service in the country. There have been reports of some pensioners dying owing to non-payment of their pensions many years after their retirement; there have been reports of some very elderly retired civil servants being subjected to very rigorous verification exercises after which nothing is forthcoming for years as pensions for them; reports abound of some state governments’ failure to remit the deducted percentage of money from the salaries of their workers as part of the latter’s contribution in the new pension scheme to their pension administrators, talk less of the contribution of such state governments, and it is still hazy as to whether retired civil servants are still entitled to the erstwhile bulk payment, called gratuity, upon retirement from active service. In the face of all these worrisome atmosphere and uncertainties, why worsen the plight of workers, nay, civil servants, through a further depletion of their low income which is constantly being pummeled by rising inflation and cost of living?.That explains why the Nigerian Police and Army have forcefully but cleverly opted out of the new contributory pension scheme with its ambivalence connotations; knowing fully well that nothing good comes out of the house of Judah.
Then comes the issue of the Code of Conduct Bureau. Declaiming one’s assets to stem the tide of corrupt acquisition of assets in the country is commendable, but surely not desirable for most civil servants whose salaries can barely feed their families. Besides, the exercise is quite stressful, particularly concerning the financial aspect. Why, for example, should a civil servant with a monthly salary of less than N18, 000 after several deductions and taxation be made to pay N1000 at the court of law before his or her asset declaration form is stamped officially?
There is a litany of other manipulative corrupt moves of some institutions in the country, all draining the meagre earnings of the civil servants. Is it the National Housing Funds to which every civil servant must subscribe every month throughout his working days to own a house, and yet has no easy access to the funds thereafter, or the erstwhile, defunct National Providence Funds (NPF) to which every worker was forced to part with N4.00 monthly, and yet not reimbursed after leaving employment of the company he or she worked before the late 1990s?
Corruption is also rife in the civil service as an institution in the use of official positions to victimize supposedly, perceived rivals and radical subordinates. It is corruption of highest order for a superior officer to subjugate any of his or her subordinates to constant intimidation, victimization, constant vexatious posting to drab offices, and habouring unrepentant propensity for profligacy and rapacity. The story has it of a military officer who got a subordinate detained in the barracks, just to make use of the short absence of the subordinate to seize his beautiful girl friend, who had strongly rebuffed the debauchery advances of the said morally corrupt officer.
It is against this backdrop, therefore, that efforts should be geared at all times and cost to put necessary monitoring mechanism(whistle blowing inclusive) in place towards checkmating not only the excessive inclination of some institutions in the country to abuse the laws establishing them, but to ensure that the ultimate organs from which they derive their statutory mandates do not encourage corruption in the country through enactment of porous laws with yawning lacunas, through which the masses could be hoodwinked or arm-twisted into forfeiting their fundamental rights .
*Johnson Ebigide, a journalist writes from Asaba, Delta State.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
Delta State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Barr. Mrs. Mary Iyasere, has inaugurated the Project Implementation and Strategy sub committee of the state Committee on Export Promotion.
The ceremony took place yesterday (27/04/2017) at conference room in the office of the commissioner during a meeting of the state Committee on Export Promotion.
Barr. Iyasere said that the inauguration of the sub committee has become expedient due to the inability of producers in the state to export their products.
She charged members of the sub committee to work towards the provision of suitable platforms for farmers in the state to export their products.
The Chairman of the committee, who is also the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Arthur-Prest Umukoro, thanked the Commissioner for giving members of the sub committee the opportunity to contribute their quota in the export promotion drive of the state.
During the meeting of the committee, two possible products for exportation, palm oil and cassava, were penciled down, while more investigations will be carried out to find out the comparative advantage of each product over others.
This is in line with the one-state-one-product programme initiative of the Federal Government aimed at boosting export.
Members of the Sub Committee are the Permanent Secretary, Government House and Protocol, Director of Commerce in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, representatives of Delta State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (DACCIMA), Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Shippers Council, All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Ministry of Economic Planning, Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture, Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerian Customs Service and Delta State chapter of the National Youth Council.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –:
Police operatives investigating the case of alleged rape of 15-year old Princess and secondary school student (names withheld) in the palace of the Obi of Idumuje-Ugboko, Aniocha North Local Government Area, Delta State, recorded a success on Tuesday, April 25, 2017 with the arrest of two suspects accused of complicity in the matter.
The suspects, Prince Richard Nwoko and Prince Ejimofor Nwoko, were reportedly arrested in the premises of the Magistrates Court, Asaba, after several unsuccessful attempts by the police to pin them down over alleged offence of compounding felony.
Police sources told newsmen on Tuesday that efforts were on to arrest the principal suspect and others, including the crown Prince, Nonso, so as to unravel the true position concerning the case that had attracted reactions from sections of the society.
According to the source, the arrested suspects made statement to the police and were detained while investigation continued, adding that the arrests reduced tension in the community that was almost in tensed situation since after the incident.
Police investigation into the case was spurred by a petition written by Walter Eziashi, a former President-general of Idumuje-Ugboko Development Union, alleging that after the rape, some royal princess and others allegedly covered up the case after sanctioning the suspect and imposing fine of for goats and the sum of N400,000 on him.
The alarm raised by Mr. Eziashi also attracted female layers in Nigeria, under the aegis of FIDA, and they called for thorough investigation to give justice to the teenager.
The Public Relations Officer (PRO), FIDA, Delta State, Mrs. Stellamaris Mejulu, expressed delight with the arrest of the suspects and urged the police to prosecute all those linked to the case.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Anthony Aniemeka, when contacted said that police were still investigating the case.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: His Highness, Onihe Odimegwu Nwanze, the Okakwu of Oko-Amakom, Elders and Elites of uwaile (Isi-ani), quarters Oko-Amakom deem it necessary to debunk all the distorted stories and put the following facts straight and clear before the Author, Chief B N Awasia, and the general public, especially the Oko indigenes.
That Chief B N Anwasia work on the History of Oko was a distortion of facts in the History of Oko and mythical which may mislead Oko indigenes and future generation of the kingdom.
That Oko kingdom was not founded by Odeaja alone but with many other people like Uwaile (Isi-ani), Umu-ogwu, Umu-okpai, Inyele, Igbulie and Umu-Ngwu, as he falsely wrote in his book to suit his claimed lineage.
The self acclaimed historian, Chief B N Anwasia fabricated stories have forced us to write a brief History of uwaile Isi-ani, Quarters in Oko kingdom.
That Uwaile Isi-ani people of Igala extraction under the leadership of prince Ajor from a royal ruling house in Uwaile quarters in Idah, Kogi State sailed down to a virgin forest by the west bank of river Niger, a settlement which they named Ajor-Oko meaning Ajor farm/settlement situated by Ajabukwu and Akpu- umunnenabo area in 16th century. For clarity and record purposes, the settlement was named after prince Ajor, the head/leader of the Uwaile-Isi-ani people in the settlement as a mark of respect.
This settlement, much later with the arrival of other groups like Odeaja children, Umu-ogwu, Inyele, Umu-okpai, Igbulie and Umu-Ngwu was jointly and unanimously named and called Oko as a clan.
That Akor title(kingship) is not a prerogative of Odeaja children alone as written by chief B N Anwasia because Uwaile Isi-ani people of Igala origin from Idah also came with their royal staff of office ( Ofor-Eze) to the settlement named Ajor-Oko before the arrival of Odeaja children and other groups to the settlement later jointly called Oko. And the Author wrote in his book that the children of Odeaja became jealous of the prosperity of Uwaile(Isi-ani) people because they nearly outnumbered the children of Odeaja. They were also wealthier because they owned many fishing lakes. And that their immediate aim of ambition was to contest for kingship. Hence, the children of Odeaja secretly planned and executed mass killing of Uwaile Isi-ani people. This is a good evidence that Uwaile isi-ani is a royal lineage of Igala origin who came down to the settlement later called Oko with their royal staff of office (Ofor-Eze).
The following is a list of kings/Akors in Oko kingdom till date:
1. EZE ONU – OKO-ANALA
2. EZE OSUME – OKO-ANALA
3. EZE IDUU – OKO-ANALA
4. EZE EZEJIOFOR – OKO-OGBELE
5. EZE ANOCHIE – (UWAILE ISI-ANI) OKO-AMAKOM
6. EZE OGBOME (UWAILE ISI-ANI) OKO-AMAKOM
7. EZE ODILI (IDOKONMADU) OKO-AMAKOM
8. EZE EDEMUZOR (IDOKONMADU) OKO-AMAKOM
9. EZE IFEAKWAZIA (IDOKONMADU) OKO-AMAKOM
10. EZE OGWUMIKE – OKO-OGBELE
11. EZE OJUGBANA – OKO-ANALA
12. EZE OSAKWE – OKO-ANALA
13. EZE ANYAFULU – OKO-ANALA
14. EZE NWOHA – OKO- OGBELE
15. EZE EGBUNE – OKO-ANALA
16. EZE ATISELE – OKO-OGBELE
17. EZE EMEAGWALI – OKO-OGBELE
18. EZE IJEOMA – OKO-OGBELE
19. EZE OLISA I – OKO-OGBELE
20. EZE ANICHE – OKO-ANALA
21. EZE CHUKWUMA – (UWAILE ISI-ANI) OKO-AMAKOM
22. EZE OPUTA I – OKO-ANALA
23. EZE OLISA II OKO-OGBELE
24. EZE OSITA I – OKO-ANALA
The above list of the past and present kings in Oko kingdom has exposed and proved, the Author self acclaimed Historian, Chief B N Anwasia wrong in his claims that only Odeaja children are entitled to kingship in Oko kingdom.
That it was the Odeaja children and other groups that met Uwaile (Isi-ani) people at the settlement called Ajor-Oko (Ajor farm/settlement) situated by Ajabukwu/Akpu umunnenabo. This fact was made clear when the Author mentioned in his book that it appeared Uwaile Isi-ani people were living there before Odeaja children and others came to the settlement. That there was never a time in the history of Oko that Uwaile Isi-ani, children were admitted by Odeaja children into their fold. Uwaile Isi-ani has been an independent royal lineage, Quarters and autonomous before Oko was founded as a clan.
It is interesting to note that Uwaile Isi-ani people sailed down from Idah to the settlement with their royal staff of office (Ofor-Eze), titles, festivals, Burial ceremonies, shrines, all that are needed in a kingdom before the Odeaja children and others came to live with them side by side. All what Uwaile Isi-an- people were doing with Odeaja children and others were Joint ceremonies like Egwugwu festivals as people of the same origin and neighbours of the same kingdom in accordance with the custom and tradition of Oko.
To put the record straight, the Umu Odeaja and others met and Joined Uwaile Isi-ani quarters at the Ajor-Oko settlement on Afor –Ofor day during Ofor festival and they were happily received as people from the same Igala kingdom. But then the issue of knowing the actual date for the Ofor festival (Ogaigai) came up. The Umu Odeaja and others claimed that the actual date was adopted and announced before they left Idah that Uwaile quarters left Idah long time ago. But the Uwaile quarters disagreed and insisted on the date by their calculation. Hence this mixed up in the veracity for the actual date for the festival caused the Uwaile quarters celebrating the festival nine(9) days (Oge-ato) after the other Oko communities have celebrated it.
However, after a long time the whole Oko clan adopted and agreed on a common and general date for the Ofor festival. It is pertinent to mention here that Uwaile quarters willingly agreed on the accord because they suffered economically in hosting other Oko communities when they were celebrating it on a different date.
That Uwaile Isi-ani lakes were never confisticated by Odeaja children any time as written by Chief B N Anwasia. But Uwaile Isi-ani people out of magnanimity willingly donated their lakes for general use by Oko people. However, the reason behind this kind gesture was due to financial difficulty in raising fund for the land case between Oko and Umu Ezenei, quarters in Asaba. Hence the big lakes being rich in accommodating fishes were often sold in order to raise fund for the land case. Although, at times the lakes were fished during Ulor and Ofor festivals.
That during the Uwaile Isi-ani massacre by the Odeaja children, some of them that escaped fled to Ogwashi-uku, Asaba, Onitsha, Oko in Anambra State is axiomatic but Uwaile Isi-ani people still relate with them till date as people of the same origin. We thank Chief B N Anwasia for reminding Uwaile Isi-ani children of our bad past experience but no regret for the loss of lives and we can not question God since it was just part of History of our great lineage.
That there was never a time in oko History that Amakoji, was a name of a title Odeaja gave his son as wrongly wrote by the Author, Chief B N Anwasia, a self acclaimed Historian who believes in fabrication of stories for cheap popularity. Amakom community means Amalgamation of the five quarters that make up Amakom. They are Uwaile (Isi-ani), Idokonmadu, Umu-Okpai, Umu-Ogwu and Inyele. This is a known fact in Oko History till date.
For History and records purposes, that in as much as Uwaile Isi-ani believes in unity of Oko and we are enjoying good neighbourliness with Odeaja children and others, Uwaile Isi-ani quarters don’t want to join issues with anybody, family, quarter or community in Oko kingdom based on what Chief B N Anwasia falsely wrote in his book to suit his lineage, that “OKO” originated from Ojo-Oko which is not true. But if the truth must be told Oko originated from Ajor-Oko meaning Ajor farm/settlement which was the name of the settlement occupied by Uwaile Isi-ani people before Odeaja children and others came to the same settlement that was later generally and unanimously called and named Oko.
For clarity and records purposes, the settlement was named after the Head/Leader of Uwaile Isi-ani people, PRINCE AJOR who was denied his installation as the Attah of Idah by the king makers because of his deformity caused by the lost of one of his eyes and this accident happened when he was playing with a fishing implement (Ndudu) at a tender age in Idah. So prince Ajor felt cheated and decided to leave Idah and establish his own kingdom by the west bank of the river Niger.
For the sake of history and fact findings, the Author, Chief B N Anwasia in his book wrote and made Oko indigenes and the world over to understand that Odeaja returned to Idah from Ani-Oto and did not reach Ajabukwu (Akpu-Umunnenabo) or the settlement where his children met Uwaile Isi-ani people called Ajor-Oko before it was unanimously proclaimed, named and called OKO by all the different groups that founded Oko as a kingdom or clan. Hence, it is erroneous and unacceptable for the Author, Chief B N Anwasis to write or claim that Odeaja founded Oko when Odeaja himself did not reach or know the settlement that was later named and called Oko. It is interesting at this juncture to note that Chief B N Anwasia a self acclaimed Oko Historian is only trying to distort facts and steal a glorious moment in Oko History.
However, we the people of Uwaile(Isi-ani), want to remind Chief B N Anwasia and his cohorts that Uwaile people were called Uwaile Isi-ani as a mark of honour for being the first settlers on Oko land. Hence we advise the Author of the History of Oko, Chief B N Anwasia to withdraw his books on the History of Oko out of circulation because of the fabricated stories in the book which may mislead Oko people and the future generation and this can encourage crisis and disunity in the kingdom.
We also understand that Chief B N Anwasia did these fabrications in his Associateship Certificate of Education project in view of an award of Advance Certificate of Education (ACE). We are happy and congratulate him for his success in obtaining the Advance Certificate of Education (ACE) with these distorted facts in his book on the History of Oko Kingdom. It is also interesting to note that Chief B N Anwasia real lineage in Oko History is allegedly still in doubt.
Finally, we challenge the Author to launch his book in the palace of the Akor of Oko or any other venue where the sons and daughters of Oko kingdom will be invited to know the accurate History of Oko kingdom.
*His Highness, Onihe Odimegwu Nwanze is the Okakwu of Oko-Amakom
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: Governor Ifeanyi OkowaAskia OGIEH
The Executive Director (Finance and Administration) at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Bashorun (Hon.) Askia Ogieh, JP, KSJI, CNA, has affirmed that the current endorsement of Governor Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa as as sole candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for 2019 governorship election by the three Senatorial Districts in Delta state is a proof of the outstanding landmark achievements of the state government in delivering democracy dividends across the state.
Bashorun Askia made the affirmation during an enlarged PDP meeting on Saturday, April 22, 2017, hosted by the immediate past Governor of the State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan in his Warri home, where the Delta South Senatorial District unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and endorsed him as sole candidate for 2019.
He described governor Okowa as a Pan Delta leader, considering his humble, proactive leadership abilities and good governance initiatives which has turned everywhere in the state to construction sites by using the meagre resources available to government in laying solid foundation for the socio-economic remodelling of the state.
He also praised the human capital development and economic empowerment policies of the Governor Okowa led administration which has transformed the lives of the majority of youths in Delta state.
While revealing that Deltans have resolved to sustain power rotation in the state and allow Delta North to complete her eight years tenure, he appealed to all Deltans at home and in the Diaspora to rally round Governor Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa for his re-election in 2019 for the sake of equity, good conscience and natural justice.
He therefore urged all PDP faithful in Delta South Senatorial District to queue behind the Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the state PDP Chairman, Barr. Kingsley Esiso and the Delta South PDP Chairman, Prince Emmanuel Amgbaduba in a bid to keep the party strong and united.
Bashorun Askia further encouraged all PDP faithful in Delta South, Delta North and Delta Central Senatorial Districts respectively to participate actively in the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise which will commence on Thursday, 27th April, 2017, and would provide opportunities for Deltans who have attained the age of 18 to register “as a matter of routine until a few months to the 2019 general elections.”
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu
THE Niger Delta Indigenous Movement for Radical Change (NDIMRC) has dismissed allegation of selective Town Hall Meetings in the Niger Delta Region against Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu.
The oil monitoring group described the Minister as a transparent person with burning desire to transform the region.
A group, the Grassroots Initiative for Peace and Social Orientation (GIPSO), had on Thursday warned the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, to stop frustrating the peace process in the region by his selective town hall meetings.
GIPSO had said the minister’s alleged selective town hall meetings with some groups and former militant leaders in the region was capable of creating tension and dividing interests against the peace package put together by the Federal Government for the region.
But in a press statement signed by its President, Nelly Emma, Secretary, John Sailor and Public Relations Office (PRO) Stanley Mukoro, the group kicked over the accusation against the Minister of selective Town Hall Meetings in the oil rich Niger Delta Region
Frowning at the allegation, the group warned those determined to frustrate the peace process of the Minister to desist forthwith and support him to restore the needed peace and attract more investors to the region.
” It is not true that our dynamic Minister of State for Petroleum is involved in selective Town Hall Meetings in the oil rich Niger Delta Region. The Minister has been very transparent in his Town Hall Meetings and he should be commended for his initiatives in driving the peace process in the region. The price of oil has gone up as a result of the relentless efforts of the Minister who wants nothing but the best for the oil rich Niger Delta Region and it’s people”, the group said.
The group added that;” It is unfair for some elements to accuse the Minister of selective Town Hall Meetings with some groups and former militant leaders in the Region. The Minister to the best of our knowledge has carried all critical stakeholders along in his Town Hall Meetings. The peace process of the Minister in the region is yielding fruits on a daily basis and we should all join hands with the Minister who has a burning desire for the development of the Region”.
According to the group also;” As a result of the efforts of the Minister, many investors have indicated interest in the establishment of Modular Refineries across the Region and this will go a long way in curbing insecurity, create job opportunities for our people, save the environment from pollution and end attacks on oil facilities and at the end of the day, we will have a better Niger Delta Region that all of us can be proud of”.
“We should all support the Petroleum Minister who has succeeded in ending attacks on oil facilities in the region, rather than accusing him of selective Town Hall Meetings with some groups and former militant leaders in the region. We are all enjoying the benefits from his peace process. The Minister is a capable hand and has helped the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari greatly in the restoration of peace to all parts of the Region and he should be given a pat on the back for his initiatives”, the group stated.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Hon Kennedy Daubry
The member representing Burutu state constituency 2 at the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon Kennedy Daubry, has pledged full allegiance and loyalty to the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), urging all members of the party in his constituency to cue behind the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa led government and Barr. Kingsley Esiso as state party chairman.
He also said that there is no division in the party in Burutu local government area.
He said this during a Thank You visit to the people in his constituency, comprising of all the wards in Burutu state constituency 2.
The Town Hall meeting which held on Friday at Ogbobagbene town in Burutu witnessed a large turnout of youths in all the wards in Burutu state constituency 2,
The lawmaker encouraged all party members to ensure that they participate in the Voter Registration exercise and urged them to mobilize their people from across the country as well as to come out enmasse for the forthcoming Census exercise which he described as the strength of the people in the constituency.
In his speech, the Burutu LGA PDP Chairman, Hon Ebike Oromoni commended Hon. Kennedy Daubry for deeming it fit to come to his constituency to meet with the youths, saying it is a right step in the right direction. He added that the party faithful in the constituency will remain undivided and support the people oriented policies and agenda of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
Those who spoke in support include the Pioneer PDP Chairman of Burutu LGA, Chief Okoloba Dimaro and the immediate past PDP Chairman, Pastor Kenneth Ogeibiri who is also SSA to Governor Okowa on Water Resources.
Bashorun (Hon.) Askia Samuel Ogieh (JP)Ejeba Efe Michael
The Executive Director (Finance and Administration) at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Bashorun (Hon.) Askia Ogieh, JP, KSJI, CNA, has been commended for funding numerous social media platforms to secure victory votes for the Big Brother Naija 2017 winner, Mr. Ejeba Efe Michael.
Recall that Bashorun (Hon.) Askia Ogieh expended huge personal funds into various platforms where recharge cards were freely given out to members of the public through an outstanding youth empowerment Non Governmental Organization (NGO), HOPE ALIVE and other platforms to ensure that votes poured out for the upcoming rapper, song writer, actor and reality television show star.
The Director General, HOPE ALIVE, Hon Obaro Godspower who applauded Bashorun (Hon.) Askia Ogieh for providing the financial support base for the successful outcome also revealed that the Team Efe were on ground to coordinate the transfer of airtime to willing voters through numerous platforms funded by Bashorun Ogieh and ensured that the Votes kept pouring in for Efe.
Some of the campaign messages on its Facebook pages read: “Show evidence of voting Efe by SMS “Vote Efe to 32052″ and you get N200 airtime. The more you show evidence of Voting Efe the more airtime you get. Post evidence of Voting Efe under this post.
Text Vote Efe to 32052. All For Efe…All For Warri…All For Deltans…Based On Logistics…”
Meanwhile, the DESOPADEC Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Bashorun (Hon.) Askia Ogieh, congratulated Mr. Ejeba Efe Michael, for emerging the winner of The Big Brother Naija 2017.
He said that during the 24-hour three month long live show, Efe displayed a high level of proper conduct, humility and has shown the real Deltan character, describing his victory as a source of pride not just for the family but also for all Deltans.
He called on youths in Delta state to emulate such virtues that promote peace, growth and development and always work against anti social tendencies to enable them achieve greater goals in their respective endeavours.
He further commended the management of HOPE ALIVE for standing up for Efe, as well as other celebrities in Nigeria for endorsing and voting for him to emerge as the overall winner.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –: Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered an investigation into the allegations of violations of law and due process made against the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr David Babachir Lawal, in the award of contracts under the Presidential Initiative on the North East (PINE).
The President has also directed the suspension of the SGF from office pending the outcome of the investigations.
In a related development, the President has ordered a full scale investigation into the discovery of large amounts of foreign and local currencies by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in a residential apartment at Osborne Towers, Ikoyi, Lagos, over which the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) has made a claim.
The investigation is also to enquire into the circumstances in which the NIA came into possession of the funds, how and by whose or which authority the funds were made available to the NIA, and to establish whether or not there has been a breach of the law or security procedure in obtaining custody and use of the funds.
A statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President (Media and Publicity), Mr. Femi Adesina and made available to Blank NEWS Online on April 19, 2017 also revealed that the President has directed the suspension of the Director General of the NIA, Ambassador Ayo Oke, pending the outcome of the investigation.
A three-man Committee comprising the Hon. Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, and the National Security Adviser, headed by the Vice President, is to conduct both investigations.
The Committee is to submit its report to the President within 14 days.
The most senior Permanent Secretary in the SGF’s office, and the most senior officer in the NIA, are to act, respectively, during the period of investigation.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Doris Yeri Warri Aboh:
FOLLOWING the Delta State Governor, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa’s SMART agenda, encapsulating strategic wealth creation project and provision of jobs for all Deltans, meaningful peace building platforms aimed at political and social harmony and more, the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Deacon (Barr) Kingsley Burutu Otuaro, has evolved more than a few measures to define the peace program of the SMART phenomenon.
Given his tutelage in peace and conflict resolution from the premier University of Ibadan, between 2004 and 2007, it is not unexpected that Otuaro has become a rallying point in conflict resolution and peace initiatives in the state.
Programmed for greatness
Born April 16, 1968 at Oporoza, Warri South-West Local Government Area (LGA), Delta State, to family of Mr. and Mrs. Napoleon Burutu Otuaro, who hail from Okerenkoko and Obotebe in Warri South-West and Burutu LGAs respectively of Delta State, he attended Asoro Primary School, Benin City, in the then Bendel State and in 1980, obtained his Primary School Leaving Certificate.
He began his Secondary School career in Immaculate Conception College, Benin City, Edo state, from 1981 to 1983, and later completed same in Isaba Grammar School, Isaba, Delta State, from 1983 to 1985 when he obtained his West African School Certificate (WASC). On completion of Secondary School in 1985, he worked with NISCO Nigeria Ltd at Jones Creek Flow Station in SPDC Northern Swamp Operations as a Technical Support Staff and later with Nigerian Dredging and Marine, Warri, Delta State, as Deck-Hand in the Marine Department. Otuaro subsequently got admission in 1994 into the Edo State (now Ambrose Ali) University, Ekpoma where he obtained his LLB with honours in 1999/2000. He afterward attended the Nigerian Law School and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2005.
Between 2005 to 2007, he served as Special Assistant on Community Affairs to Delta State Governor, His Excellency, Chief James Onanefe Ibori. In 2008, he was appointed by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan as a member of the Delta State Technical Support Committee, led by Prof. Sam Oyovbaire. While in 2009, during the Military Joint Task Force bombardment of the Niger Delta agitators, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan again appointed him as Chairman of Delta State Rehabilitation Committee for Internally Displaced Persons.
Square peg in square hole
His Masters Degree in Peace and Conflict Resolution was propelled by his quest to learn new ways of achieving peaceful environment, the comprehension that properly fit him into the implementation of Okowa’s SMART agenda, principally pivoted on peace-building. Barr Otuaro, who could be likened to an army ‘Lieutenant’ that believes in achieving the goals and chains of command of his ‘General’ in enhancing the military, obviously has been driving Dr. Okowa’s peace-building plan in retrospect to conflict resolution from contending parties, across the state.
For over 365 days in office as second-in-command to Dr. Okowa, Barr. Otuaro, bearing in mind that no meaningful agenda can succeed in an atmosphere of rancor, has not relented in making sure that every community and communal conflict is matched with adequate and appropriate actions to maintain cordial relationship.
Putting knowledge into action
He had waded into the crisis between companies and oil communities employing persuasive techniques and warning that government would not hesitate to invoke the full weight of the law on communities involved in the breach of peace, law and order where necessary. Otuaro adumbrates the fact that the present administration under the leadership of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa believes in equity, fair play and justice, assuring that nobody will be short changed and no one will be intimidated in the process.
In a case between SETRACO and Gbaregolor community, where the community pressurized the firm to sack some indigenes and replace them with others, he ruled that it was unhealthy and thus, pushed a Memorandum of Understanding, (MoU) between SETRACO and the community that put the matter to rest. Also, following the shutdown of Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) operations by host communities, he moved in, held meetings with president generals and community leaders to reconsider their decision and re-open the shut down oil facilities of NPDC for operation.
“We have come a long way, we have a common future and together we must salvage this common future, you cannot do it alone and government cannot do it alone, so there is need to be a great synergy among us in order to move forward. While frantic efforts are been made at the top level to resolve this matters, the communities and government must work hand in hand until the issues are resolved”. Barr Otuaro stated.
The synergy that works
Of course, there are several dimensions of communal conflicts, community disputes and oil companies/ host communities feud, as well as traditional stool tussles, kingship and administrative struggles, orchestrated as if to truncate the peace and smooth leadership of the Okowa-led administration, but with Governor Okowa acting as the ‘General,’ giving matching orders, his ‘Lieutenant’, Barr. Otuaro, armed with his expertise on conflict resolution and peace building, readily availed himself to wade into the storm of disputes from across the state.
From the chairmanship tussle at Ojobo community in Burutu local government area, the leadership dispute at Alagbabiri in Ewu town, Ughelli South local government, land and boundary dispute between Ozoro and Oleh community, Isoko South and Isoko North local governments respectively, Ofagbe crisis, Emuebu and Obiaruku dispute, Nsukwa Patriotic Union and Obi of Nsukwa, Aniocha South local government imbroglio, Otuaro, acting on the orders of his boss, spared no bound at nipping the conflicts in the bud.
From state to federal advocacy
As Chairman of Peace Advocacy Committee Against Oil Facility Vandalism in Delta State, Barr Kingsley Otuaro and members of his committee was marshaled by Governor Okowa to the creeks to campaign for an end to pipeline vandalism. It was not an easy task for him, the governor and members of his committee because the constant crisis between the youths of the region and the Nigerian nation is hinged and powered by the philosophy of moral relativism, arising from the secularization of human existence, which has no connection with God and religion.
The implication is that every action and conduct is justifiable, a notion which makes personal gain more justifiable than anything else. Thus, many are of the view that in an oppressed society, terrorism is justified. But Deacon Otuaro and his committee members were able to push for peace.
As the ‘general,’ Okowa found his lieutenant a veritable asset in energizing the peace-building plan of the Federal Government. He was in the thick of the earlier efforts by the Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, and later the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, to return peace to the region. The behind- the- scene moves culminated in the fact-finding mission of Osinbajo to the Niger Delta, as endorsed by President, Muhammadu Buhari .
The endeavors are already paying off, ranging from the firm assurance by the federal government on the take-off the Nigerian Maritime University, NMU, Okerenkoko, Osinbajo’s order on oil companies to relocate their headquarters back to the region, willingness to support establishment of modular refineries and collaborate with illegal oil refiners and lots more.
God revealed my deputy to me – Okowa
Governor Okowa has not failed to acknowledge the good working relationship between him and his deputy. During a meeting with leaders of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, from Delta South senatorial district, he disclosed that God revealed his deputy to him (Okowa) even before he chose him. The governor stated that on several occasions, he tried to wave off the revelation, but the celestial revelation kept hitting him that his deputy would come from the Christ Embassy Church.
“So when Mr Otuaro’s name came, I had to confirm to find that he was truly of Christ Embassy Church, God did not make a mistake, so we will continue to work as brothers in this government,” Okowa asserted.
Confirmed fidelity
Okowa’s confidence in Otuaro dates back to the very beginning! This explains the understanding and partnership between the two, which has placed the state on the path of prosperity, despite daunting economic challenges. Not long after they took over the reins of administration of the state, Okowa permitted Otuaro to chair the first state Executive Council meeting of the administration, a testament to Okowa’s liberal disposition and his assurance in Otuaro’s loyalty. And sooner than later, he went on a two-weeks leave break, but not many Deltans knew in point of fact that he went on leave because they did not sense the void. This was due largely to the bond between the duo.
Solomon’s wisdom
Consequently, Okowa had delegated many demanding assignments on his deputy,ranging from,Representing the governor at Nigeria Governors forum,’NGF’ National Economic Council Meetings and Other notable federal function,another very rare act of Liberalism from a ‘Sublime General’ not minding what those who do not understand the power at play would say. And like a committed deputy who would never betray the trust of his commanding officer, Otuaro, during the absence of his principal, re-enacted the wisdom of Biblical King Solomon at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, at one of the sessions where feuding factional women leaders of a market women association in Asaba threatened to pull down the roof.
The ensuing fierce altercation almost disrupted the event, as the two women claiming to be the president of the association wanted to respond on behalf of the women to the statement of the Federal Government that the state had keyed into the initiative. Protocol officers and security personnel battled to return the situation to normalcy, but to no avail. Calmly, Otuaro called the protocol officer and implored him to allow both women to speak in turn. This diplomatic and democratic resolution immediately brought tranquility and you could hear a pin drop in the hall.
By the time Otuaro mounted the podium to explain the programmes encapsulated in the SMART agenda of the Okowa-led administration in a down-to-earth manner to the people, what followed was a manifestation, as even commissioners and other government officials in the hall wondered if Otuaro sat down with his boss to plan the prosperity blueprint before he made him his deputy.
Soul winning continues
For Deacon Otuaro, political office is not and cannot be a hindrance to the Lord’s work. To this end, he has continued to champion the redemption of souls through ministerial messages in the vineyard of God. Interestingly, Otuaro has committed himself to delivering gospel messages and ministration in various churches and prisons, a ministry he has maintained passion for, several years before becoming the deputy governor. Unarguably, the meeting of Governor Okowa and his deputy, Barr Otuaro can be described as a physical actualization of what was programmed spiritually.
*Doris Yeri Warri Aboh is SSA, Media at the Deputy Governor’s Office, Delta State.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: Comrade Monday Agbeyi
Chairman, Association of HPMs and TLGs in Delta State, Comrade Monday Agbeyi has urged staffers of Local Government councils in the state to be committed to duty and be supportive to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led administration that is working round the clock to ensuring that staff of LG councils in the state live better lives.
The association’s chairman who was speaking in a meeting held in Asaba, charged staffers of LG councils to see the current economic situation in Nigeria as temporary, which the country has already overcome, adding that the untiring efforts of the state government will automatically bring good standard of living and ensure regular payment of workers’ salaries.
He said, “LG councils will bounce back to their glorious days. Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor of Delta State is committed to meeting the yearnings of workers.”
He charges workers of the state Local Government councils not to look at the current situation facing LG councils in Nigeria, rather they should be committed to their duties.
He however, reacted to the call by Osun state Governor, Rauf Aregbesola who said “granting autonomy to local government councils is an aberration since local government councils are controlled by the state governor.” explaining that the assertions are capable of causing disunity between the governor and workers.
“The statement is not true and laughable to emanate from a higher officer like a respected governor. The laws for the establishment of local government is not made by the state government rather the federal government created it as a third tier of government to bring rapid development to the grassroots people. Therefore, such an organ of government cannot be said to be and appendage of the state.”
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: Azinge
THE Delta State Commissioner of Health, Dr. Nicholas Azinge, yesterday urged citizens of the state not to panic over the reported case of meningitis in the state.
Azinge, who made the appeal when he spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, said that one case of meningitis could not be taken for an outbreak, adding that the state is safe.
He said the reported case of meningitis in Delta State was only one officially reported case, which could not be regarded to as an outbreak.
“There is no outbreak of meningitis in Delta State. To refer to a case as an outbreak, you must have witnessed five cases out of 100,000 cases among the population. It is true we have few cases reported, but only one was confirmed and unconfirmed maybe two people.”
“Meningitis is not like Lassa fever that spreads easily. If we have a reported case of one victim, then that is not an outbreak, we need to have at least five cases.
“Delta State is safe from meningitis. We have measures in place to combat it. We are ready medically.
“We may have to address the state to clear the air on the reported case soon. The Ministry of Information will see to that,’’ he said.
NAN reports that the case is the first to be recorded in the state since the outbreak of the pandemic some weeks ago in the country.
It was disclosed that a female patient, whose identity was undisclosed, had arrived the hospital with typical symptoms of meningitis.
A Consultant Physician at the hospital, Dr. Ngozi Chukwubeni, said the patient had no previous exposure to the endangered meningitis belt of the country in recent time.
According to her, the patient has been taken through the appropriate examinations and
laboratory tests and assured that the patient was responding to medication.
“We have a female patient. She came with classical symptoms of meningitis, headache, vomiting, neck pain and stiffness.
“There was no history of recent travel to the meningitis belt or exposure. We did a dumber puncture. We made an assessment, clinical features and laboratory investigations when you are keeping with spinal meningitis.
“We placed her on antibiotics. The patient is doing very well,’’ he said.
The Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, had on Tuesday confirmed 489 deaths from the meningitis outbreak in Nigeria.
Adewole, at a meeting convened by the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, to tackle the outbreak of meningitis in the northern region of the country, said 428 deaths were recorded as at Friday.
The recorded cases of meningitis have hit about 26 states of the federation. 171 were confirmed to be the Type C meningitis with Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, Niger and Kebbi States most affected.
Adewole said that the Federal Government had earmarked over 1 billion dollars to procure vaccines to combat meningitis in the five most affected states in the northern region.
He also said that 823,000 doses of attenuated Type C had been delivered to the Federal Government by the UK Government, while UNICEF had delivered over 1 million Type A of the vaccines.
“The Federal Government needs 1.087 billion dollars to procure vaccines and administer on some 21 million persons against meningitis in the affected states,’’ he said.
Adewole advised states to join hands with the Federal Government in combating the deadly epidemic by investing more in the health sector.
NAN also reports that Meningitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
A bacterial or viral infection of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord usually causes the swelling.
(NAN)
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA:
Palpable fear has enveloped parts of Delta state over cases of Meningitis outbreak in Warri and Asaba.
It was barely 20 hours after a case of Cerebro Spinal Meningitis was recorded in Warri, Delta state before a fresh case hit Asaba, the state capital and raising questions on whom the next victim would be.
The Permanent Secretary of the state Ministry of Health, Dr. Minnie Oseji, confirmed the Asaba case, noting that the victim, a child is responding to treatment but no death has been reported so far.
She disclosed that, “One suspected case of Meningitis in Asaba. No microscopy, culture and sensitivity done on the Cerebro Spinal fluid. “Another probable case of Meningococcal Meningitis in Asaba with positive microscopy but no culture and sensitivity done on Cerebro Spinal fluid.”
She added that, “There are no recorded deaths. Hence, there are three cases both in Asaba and Warri, two suspected cases and one probable case. The one in Warri is a suspected case but the government is taking the necessary measures to contain the spread.”
Recall that Doctors at the Central Hospital, Warri, disclosed the first case of the Cerebrospinal Meningitis in the state on Tuesday, April 11, 2017 in Warri South Local Government Area of the state, sparking fears among residents.
A Consultant Physician at the Warri Central Hospital, Dr. Ngozi Chukwubeni, told journalists in Warri that the female patient was diagnosed of classical symptoms of meningitis, headache, vomiting, neck pain and stiffness.
According to Chukwubeni said, “We have a female patient. She came with classical symptoms of meningitis: headache, vomiting, neck pain and stiffness. There was no history of recent travel to the meningitis belt, or exposure.
“We did a dumber puncture. We made an assessment, clinical features and laboratory investigations when you are keeping with spinal meningitis. We placed her on antibiotics. The patient is doing very well.”
She said the case has been reported with the state ministry of health for appropriate action, while taking necessary action to halt further spread of the disease to other patients within the hospital.
On his part, a Consultant Gynecologist, Dr. Stanley Nnoli, advised parents in Warri and its environs to be very observant and seek proper medical attention instead of personal medication.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA:
Delta State has recorded its first case of the rampaging Cerebrospinal Meningitis, which has so far killed about 438 persons across the country.
Doctors at the Central Hospital, Warri, disclosed on Tuesday, April 11, 2017 in Warri South Local Government Area of the state, sparking fears among residents.
A Consultant Physician at the Warri Central Hospital, Dr. Ngozi Chukwubeni, told journalists in Warri that the female patient was diagnosed of classical symptoms of meningitis, headache, vomiting, neck pain and stiffness.
According to Chukwubeni said, “We have a female patient. She came with classical symptoms of meningitis: headache, vomiting, neck pain and stiffness. There was no history of recent travel to the meningitis belt, or exposure.
“We did a dumber puncture. We made an assessment, clinical features and laboratory investigations when you are keeping with spinal meningitis. We placed her on antibiotics. The patient is doing very well.”
She said the case has been reported with the state ministry of health for appropriate action, while taking necessary action to halt further spread of the disease to other patients within the hospital.
“There is full cooperation. We cannot work in isolation. We work with government. This case has been reported. Action plan will be taken at the state level. We on our own are taking necessary measures to prevent further occurrence and also protect our staff from getting infected by applying basic precautionary measures,” Dr. Chukwubeni added.
On his part, a Consultant Gynecologist, Dr. Stanley Nnoli, advised parents in Warri and its environs to be very observant and seek proper medical attention instead of personal medication.
The Delta state government is yet to make a pronouncement on the recorded case.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA:
Veteran highlife musician and Ozimba crooner, Tony Grey died on Monday, April 10, 2017 despite pleas for help from the Delta state government, corporate organizations, non-governmental organizations and well to do individuals to help them with N10 million for medical treatment of Tony Grey abroad.
Reports quoted his son, Houston Grey to have revealed that his father has been receiving treatment at a private hospital in Warri since October 2016.
The Warri based veteran musician was diagnosed of prostate cancer and diabetes and have been soliciting for the sum of N10million naira for surgical operationabroad, just as an NGO, Onuesoke Foundation in conjunction with a group under the aegis of Friends of Tony Grey in the United States of America recently donated N512,000 for his treatment.
Help could also not come from the Performing Musician Association of Nigeria PMAN despite the fact that Tony Grey was the founder of the Delta state chapter of the PMAN.
Until his death, Grey popularly known as Ozimba of Africa has been ill for over eight months and is currently bedridden at his Cruz Land, Marine Quarters, Warri, Delta state
Grey hails from Aboh town in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State but until his death resided at Cruz Land, Marine Quarters, Warri in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta state.
Meanwhile, Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has condoled with the Tony Grey family of Aboh in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State over the death of the veteran musician.
In a condolence statement issued in Asaba on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, Governor Okowa noted that the late Tony Grey lived a life of service to humanity which was epitomized in the lives he impacted on by his hit songs.
Governor Okowa eulogized the late Tony Grey as a quintessential musician of high repute who will be greatly missed by all lovers of music.
“The passing away of the Ozimba King at this moment is no doubt a great loss to the family, the entertainment industry, Deltans and Nigerians who loved his genre of music as his advice and wise counsel was most needed by all. He was a man of integrity who sang with humility and passion to the admiration of all and faced life challenges with courage and determination”.
“On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I mourn the exit of a great musical maestro and statesman, late Tony Grey, who will be missed by all those whose lives he touched in several ways”, he said.
Governor Okowa prayed God Almighty to grant the family and all his fans the fortitude to bear the loss.
