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N/Delta 16-Point Demand: Buhari "Baba Go Slow" Knocks Out Quick Solution, As Leaders Seek Fiscal Federalism, Ownership Of Oil Blocs

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N/Delta 16-Point Demand: Buhari "Baba Go Slow" Knocks Out Quick Solution, As Leaders Seek Fiscal Federalism, Ownership Of Oil Blocs

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

President Buhari
President Buhari

President Mohammadu Buhari may not be ready for a quick solution to the request presented to him by stakeholders from the Niger Delta, who on Tuesday presented a 16-point demand to him and requesting for an inclusive participation in the oil sector and ownership of oil blocs as well as fiscal federalism.

The stakeholders presented their demands at a meeting held with the president at the State House on Tuesday in Abuja but the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, said President Buhari told the Niger Delta leaders that he did not want a quick solution to their problems.

According to the minister, the president insisted that he must get to the roots of the crisis in the restive region before embarking on terms of their demands.

The demands include an urgent review of the amnesty programme to reappraise its core mandate to provide robust exit strategy; addressing pending law and justice issues regarding some aggrieved groups and individuals yet to be resolved;
a reversal of the deployment of military personnel into Niger Delta; prompt take-off of the Maritime University at Okerenkoko; and regional infrastructure.

Other demands are security surveillance and protection of oil and gas infrastructure; relocation of administrative and operational headquarters of international oil companies; a power plan to tie power supply in the region to gas supplies; economic development and empowerment; restructuring and funding of the Niger Delta Development Commission.

Their demands also include strengthening of the Niger Delta Ministry, a comprehensive resettlement plan including development for host communities and displaced populations to reduce the risk of making them into a stateless people arising from the ceding of Bakassi and fiscal federalism.

A stakeholder from the Niger Delta region, Edwin Clark, later told State House reporters that the meeting resolved that the stakeholders appoint a very capable team of experts to negotiate on their behalf.

“The meeting was arranged by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and we accepted it. It was when he approached that he had been discussing with the president about meeting him to discuss a way forward. We also accepted and agreed that we should meet.

“On the 19th of August, we met at the PTI, Warri. There is no doubt that many groups will spring up. One man will be in his room and say we are 20 and you’ll publish it. But we’ll continue to appeal to them. We have no other country but Nigeria. We cannot continue to destroy the assets of this country and at the same time destroying the ecosystem of our own region. So, we are appealing to the youth and they’re listening.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, said President Buhari told the Niger Delta leaders that he did not want a quick solution to their problems.

According to the minister, the president insisted that he must get to the roots of the crisis in the restive region.

“The president was very happy the meeting took place. He was very quick to point out that he did not want a quick solution, he needed to go to the roots of why this problem has persisted though all the various governments.

“So, he wants to dig into the root causes of where this is coming from and what the solutions are. He shared his own personal life experiences growing through the reign of militancy both in the northeast and here, and why it’s important to dig in and find lasting solutions.

“He was very happy and took pictures with everybody at the end of the day. Knowing him for who he is, he’s going to go back and sleep on all the things that have been said and begging to fashion solutions going forward,” Kachikwu stated.

Kachikwu also told journalists that as at today’s morning, oil production was 2.1 million per barrels, saying “That is substantial. That would not have happened without efforts that went behind through the royal fathers and leaders through the militant leaders.

“A lot of behind-the-scene engagements had taken place and will continue to take place. If you look at the big wins we set up last week, part of the expectations by 2017 is to target a zero shut as a result of result of militancy.”

Demand of Niger Delta as presented to PMB.
.
1. Ownership of oil blocs
2. Review of Amnesty Programme
3. Relocation of headquarters of IOCs to areas of operation
4. Approval of Maritime University
5. Strengthening Niger Delta Ministry
6.Revival of key critical infrastructure
7. Resettlement of Bakassi indigenes
8. Restructuring, funding of NDDC
9. Introduction of fiscal federalism
10. Economic development, empowerment of N-Delta people
11. Improved power supply
12. Security surveillance
13. Protection of oil, gas infrastructure
14. Meeting immediate needs of IDPs
15. Addressing effects of increased military presence in N-Delta
16. Ogoni clean-up; Environmental
remediation.

President Buhari and the Niger Delta stakeholders
President Buhari and the Niger Delta stakeholders

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

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Okowa Dedicates Award To Deltans, As Delta Shines @ ADVAN Awards

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Okowa Dedicates Award To Deltans, As Delta Shines @ ADVAN Awards

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr Patrick Ukah, (second left ) with his wife, Mrs Ukah ( left ) receiving the ADVAN Award on behave of Delta State Governor from Mr David Okeme,President Advertisers Association of Nigeria ( ADVAN) and Mr Segun Ogunsanya,MD Airtel Nigeria/Guest Speaker (right) at the 2016 ADVAN Awards for Marketing Excellence held in Lagos at Muson Centre, Lagos on Saturday.
Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr Patrick Ukah, (second left ) with his wife, Mrs Ukah ( left ) receiving the ADVAN Award on behave of Delta State Governor from Mr David Okeme,President Advertisers Association of Nigeria ( ADVAN) and Mr Segun Ogunsanya,MD Airtel Nigeria/Guest Speaker (right) at the 2016 ADVAN Awards for Marketing Excellence held in Lagos at Muson Centre, Lagos on Saturday.

Delta State’s 25th Anniversary Campaign emerged the winner of the maiden PUBLIC SECTOR MARKETING CATEGORY of the Advertisers Association of Nigeria (ADVAN) Awards for Marketing Excellence 2016 at the MUSON Centre in Lagos at the weekend.

Delta State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Patrick Ukah, who received the award on behalf of the State Governor, Dr Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, dedicated it to all Deltans and praised them for giving the governor the opportunity to serve, stressing that Governor Okowa is determined to fulfill his electoral promises anchored on the S.M.A.R.T agenda.

According to Ukah, the 25th Anniversary campaign which was anchored on the foundation laid by the SMART agenda of the Governor was funded strictly by the public sectors’ investment, for, according to him “we believe the government cannot do it alone”.

Appreciating ADVAN for the award, Ukah said “this is the first, and so far, the only award the governor is accepting because of the credibility of ADVAN and am not sure we would accept another soon until we can be properly judged”.

In his welcome address, Mr David Okeme, President of the association, highlighted the place of marketing in the growth of the nation’s economy and enjoined private and public institutions to take advantage of it to grow their businesses.

Speaking earlier at the well attended event, the Guest Speaker, Segun Ogunsanyan, the CEO Airtel Nigeria, said the awards must be seen as the reward for outcome or results and not just efforts as nobody rewards effort but results. He emphasized that digital advertising is now the new medium of advertising which when well employed is a very strong channel to reach the people and endear many companies and their products to the youths.

The ADVAN Awards for Marketing Excellence 2016 which was in several categories saw Indomie win “The Brand of the Year Award”. The position also carries a dual award of “The Brand Manager of the Year Award”. The second position went to Coca-cola while Heineken took the third position.

The event attracted very important stakeholders within and outside the country in the marketing industry.

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

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46TH MEETING OF NATIONAL COUNCIL ON INFORMATION: SPEECH BY ALHAJI LAI MOHAMMED, MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND CULTURE

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46TH MEETING OF NATIONAL COUNCIL ON INFORMATION: SPEECH BY ALHAJI LAI MOHAMMED, MINISTER OF INFORMATION AND CULTURE

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

from right; Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; Honorable Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Muhammed; Permanent Secretary Federal ministry of Information, Mrs. Ayotunde Adesugba and former Deputy Governor of Delta State, Chief Benjamin Elue, during the 46th Meeting of the National Council on Information (NCI), in Asaba.
from right; Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; Honorable Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Muhammed; Permanent Secretary Federal ministry of Information, Mrs. Ayotunde Adesugba and former Deputy Governor of Delta State, Chief Benjamin Elue, during the 46th Meeting of the National Council on Information (NCI), in Asaba.

Let me formally welcome you all to this 46th meeting of the National Council on Information, holding in this beautiful and friendly city of Asaba. Permit me to thank our host Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, and all the members of his Executive Council, especially the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, for being such wonderful hosts.
2.   The theme of this meeting, which is ‘’Leveraging on Information and Digital Technology to Sustain the Change Agenda of Government’’ reminds us, as government information managers, of what I choose to call the paradox of technology. On one hand, the information and digital technology provides us with great opportunities. On the other hand, it if fraught with great challenges. We are therefore being tasked, on a daily basis, with how to balance this paradox and make the best of it. I will speak more on this in the course of my speech.
3.   Without mincing words, let me say that we, as Minister or Commissioners in charge of Information, and indeed all other stakeholders in the business of government information management, are the true agents of change. Our portfolios and responsibilities bestow upon us the primary role of informing, enlightening and educating the people. In normal times, this task is daunting. Today, with the advent of new information and digital technology, the word ‘’daunting’’ becomes an understatement.
4.   Yes, cashing in on the still evolving new information and digital technology will undoubtedly facilitate our work. The multiplicity, immediacy and pervasiveness of the platforms of information dissemination mean that we can reach more people much faster. That should be a good thing, right? But when you remember that those who are trying hard to distort the information you are putting out also have access to the same technology, you will realize the meaning of the paradox of technology that I spoke about earlier. In other words, the democratization of the technology of information dissemination has posed new challenges to us.
5.   Anyone can wake up this morning and decide to become an online newspaper publisher, an online television station owner, an online radio station operator, a purveyor of news, photographs and videos using the numerous Social Media platforms like Facebook, Whatsapp, Skype, Twitter, Instagram and imo, just to mention a few. They spread whatever information that catches their fancy without engaging in the rigours of accuracy, fact-checking and fairness imposed by the traditional media. But there is another problem: They have their own public, and this public believes whatever information they put out! To worsen matters, the traditional media now regurgitates whatever is put out by these emergency purveyors of information
6.   This explains why someone will report that ‘’Change Begins With Me’’, the national reorientation campaign which was launched by Mr. President last month, is costing the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture 3.4 billion Naira, and this will be believed and regurgitated by many, including seasoned writers, without interrogating the imaginary figure against the overall budget of the entire Ministry! This explains why Ministers are daily being dropped on the Social Media. Many of us now wake up to read that we will be dropped as Ministers or have our portfolios changed. Even our families and friends believe what they read or hear in the Social Media than what we tell them.
7.   But we, as media managers, must not despair. We must up our game by keying into the same evolving new information and digital technology through training and re-training of our personnel, acquisition of state-of-the art technology as well as deploying uncommon commitment and passion to what we do.
8.   As agents of change, we must understand the concept of change itself before we can talk of sustaining it. People have asked: What is this change agenda all about? The answer is simple. It is the change from impunity to accountability, change from corruption to transparency, change from a mono-product economy to a diversified economy, change from unemployment to job creation, change from moral decadence to moral revival, change from lost values to restoration of time-tested values, change from reliance on imported goods to Made-in-Nigeria products and change from gender insensitivity to gender sensitivity, just to mention a few examples.
9.  This is what we set out to do with Change Begins With Me campaign, which I referred to earlier. Simply defined, it is aimed at ensuring a paradigm shift in the way we do things. The campaign has no religious, ethnic, political or other coloration. It is just our own way of bringing back those time-tested values that once defined us as a people. We will provide you with more information on this campaign in the course of this meeting, so that you can better understand it and then explore the areas in which you can be a part of the campaign.
10.   We must all be at the forefront of the efforts to reshape our country, to bring back those good old days in which the children of poor parents do not need to know anyone before gaining admission to the best public schools. We must change the widespread perception of our people as corrupt. At the 11th Annual Lecture of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria in Abuja yesterday, the keynote speaker, Dr. Obadiah Mailafia, a former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, spoke extensively on this issue. He dispelled the popular misconception of the ‘’Nigerian factor’’ that invariably refers to an inherent tendency for corrupt behavior that is said to be in our DNA. He said and I quote: ‘’I believe this to be both untrue and unfair. Corruption is not inbuilt in the Nigerian character. The eminent American Economist, Wolfgang Friedrich Stolper, was one of the architects of Nigeria’s first National Development Plan. He was a constant visitor to our country during the years 1959 to 1962. From his autobiographical accounts, Stolper described the Nigerian civil service that he met as the best in the developing Commonwealth, well ahead of India, Malaysia, Singapore and Ghana. He interacted with eminent Nigerians such as Pius Okigbo, Simeon Adebo, Jerome Udoji, Ali Akilu and Ojetunji Aboyade. Stolper, an emigrant from Vienna, Austria, was never known for hyperbole. He described the Head of the Western Civil Service of the time, Simeon Adebo, as one of the greatest human beings I have ever met.’’ End of Quote. You can now see, ladies and gentlemen, that corruption is not in our DNA and that we have not always been the way we are now being portrayed.
11.  This brings me to the issue of perception. It used to be said that there is a thin line between perception and reality. Today, that thin line has totally disappeared. It is now so difficult to say what is reality and what is perception. Little wonder then that perception management has become a whole new vocation. On our part, we must always stay a step ahead of those who are trying to impose a new perception on us.
12.  Now, let’s flip around the saying that to whom much is given, much is expected. Let it read that to whom much is expected, much is given. The new challenge of managing the paradox of technology or managing perception imposes a lot of burden on us as information managers. Ours is undoubtedly the most important portfolio. We are the ones who clean the mess after every holder of other portfolios. When there is Ebola, Lassa Fever, or any emergency health challenge, we are the ones at the forefront of informing, enlightening and educating the people. When disasters strike, we are at the forefront. When the economy faces a downturn, we are the ones to explain. We are not just expected to project positive information, we are also expected to suppress negative ones. In fact, we are required to know much about everything. But when the budget is drawn, we get the lowest allocation. Information management is the most expensive but the least resourced. Our principals must appreciate and ensure that this is reversed in order to put us in good stead to carry out our duties. We must have the resources we need, the training we require and the state-of-the-art facilities we deserve to excel. 
13.   Ladies and gentlemen, a new dawn beckons that will greatly enhance our work. The imminent transition from analogue to digital broadcasting offers immense possibilities and opportunities. Apart from the fact that the digitization of television can create 1 million jobs in three years, it will change the way we disseminate information for good. With 24 million television households acquiring the set-top-boxes that allow them to plug into the digital TV revolution, critical information can be passed on to the citizenry through the STBs’ information portal at the push of a button and little or no cost! And the same portal provides for feedback mechanism from the citizenry.
14.  Let me round off by saying that we must always endeavor to make the best out of these interesting times. We must key into the information and digital revolution in order to better deliver on the tasks before us. We must use factual information to drown out those who are bent on misinforming our people and making it impossible for them to be a part of the change agenda. We must always stay ahead of the pack. We must be proactive rather than be reactive. We must never let down our guard because, for information managers, there should be no down time, because while you are fast asleep, those who will make your task impossible are fully awake! We must understand and harness the enormous powers of the traditional and the new tools of information dissemination to communicate the activities of government and also get feedbacks. By these tools I am referring to the radio, television, newspapers, movies, mobile phones and the Social Media. The last two are particularly important, because they are complementary. Almost everything that the Social Media offers can be accessed from your smart phone: Internet, websites, Emails, Facebook, WhatsA​pp, Twitter, Instagram, video calls, just name it. But remember, just as you have access to these tools, others also have. You can only make a difference by staying one step ahead of the pack and using facts to drown out fiction.
​ ​In the end, if we stay on top of our game, the results will be there for all to see.

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

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Gov. Okowa Congratulates New Oba Of Benin, HRM Omo N'Oba N'Edo Uku Akpolokpolor, Oba Ewuare II

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Gov. Okowa Congratulates New Oba Of Benin, HRM Omo N'Oba N'Edo Uku Akpolokpolor, Oba Ewuare II

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Oba of Benin Kingdom
Oba of Benin Kingdom

Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has congratulated HRM Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolor, Oba Ewuare II, the 39th Oba of Benin Kingdom, as he ascends the ancient throne of his forefathers.

The Governor’s message of felicitation was contained in a statement issued in Asaba on Thursday (20/10/2016) by his Chief Press Secretary. Mr Charles Aniagwu.

The statement said that Gov. Okowa, on behalf of the Government and the people of Delta State rejoiced with Oba Ewuare II, the entire Benin Kingdom on his coronation as the 39th Oba of Benin by the Benin kingmakers.

He urged the Oba to commit himself to carrying his subjects along to a new era of peace, stability and progress in Benin Kingdom, Edo State and Nigeria as a whole.

“As you ascend the revered throne of your great ancestors, you should be prepared to put your new position as Oba and principal custodian of the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Binis to good use in the service of your people and country,’’ he said.

Okowa called on Oba Ewuare to dedicate himself to building on and surpassing the worthy legacies of his much-acclaimed predecessor, Oba Erediauwa

He urged him to work with the government and other traditional rulers across the state and country to foster peace, harmony and socio-economic development across the country.

He prayed that as he ascended to the grand throne of the Oba of Benin Kingdom, “God Almighty will grant him the immense wisdom and courage he will require to oversee further progress and greater prosperity for his people.’’

The Governor wished the new Oba “long and highly’’ successful reign in the service of his people and country.

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Delta Poised For Nat. Counil On Info Parley In Asaba, Oct. 26-29

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Delta Poised For Nat. Counil On Info Parley In Asaba, Oct. 26-29

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Lai Mohammed
Lai Mohammed
Mr. Patrick Ukah! Delta Information boss
Mr. Patrick Ukah! Delta Information boss

Dlta state government has expressed its preparedness to host the 46th Meeting of the National Council on Information (NCI) scheduled to hold in Asaba, Delta State Capital.

The Federal Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who is the Chairman of Council, is expected to lead a delegation from the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture and its parastatals to attend the three day meeting which commences from Wednesday October 26 to Saturday October 29, 2016.

The theme for this year’s Council Meeting is “LEVERAGING ON INFORMATION AND DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY TO SUSTAIN THE CHANGE AGENDA OF GOVERNMENT.”

A statement from the State Ministry of Information signed by the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, indicated that the Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, will declare the Council Meeting open on Friday October 28, 2016, at 10.00am prompt at the Event Centre, Okpanam Road, Asaba. 

Delegates expected to attend the meeting are, state Commissioners for Information and officials from the Ministries of Information and their parastatals from the 36 States of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

 The National Council on Information is the highest policy making body for information articulation and delivery in the country.

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Of Provost, Dr. (Mrs) Agnes Olojoba And Govt. Audit Report

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Of Provost, Dr. (Mrs) Agnes Olojoba And Govt. Audit Report

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Dr. (Mrs) Agnes Olojoba
Dr. (Mrs) Agnes Olojoba

PREAMBLE:

Provost of the Delta State College of Health Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli, Dr. (Mrs.) Agnes Olojoba has proven that she does not have respect for constituted authorities.

She has gradually begun to violate extant rules of her engagement as Provost.

She has equally resorted to the use of threats and vile intimidations to suppress her celebrated failure and show that she actually has certain persons in government or elsewhere beating the drum for her to dance in shame.

In my nearly 30 years of professional journalism practice, I have chosen not to often bother about her kind but she has just pricked my calmness and forgotten how she gave in on her sin earlier. Well, I can understand why she has decided to act in her “wisdom”.

She lied in October, which is the month of her birth.

She probably does not know the conundrum in financial instructions.

On October 17, 2016, the embattled Provost and her cronies were made to appear before a panel of enquiry at the office of the Delta state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Azinge, the same day she wrote and published a legal threat about me via her supposed legal advisers (Keyamo Chambers), who I learnt are her kinsmen.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Azinge who chaired the panel could not have advised her to seek legal leeway.

In very near rude manner and disrespect to constituted authorities, she undermined the exalted office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Rt. Hon. Barr. Ovie Festus Agas, whom I learnt is also her kinsman that directed the autiding of the financial records under her watch based on the orders of His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.

She had also gone ahead to issue threat calls to me and seeking legal leeway without consulting with the Governing Council, a constituted authority inaugurated by the Delta state Governor, which also has her kinsmen as members. I wonder who her advisers are.

Truth to be told, I am yet to meet Dr. (Pharm.) Nelson Ejakpovi, the Chairman of the Governing Council of the College for the first time. I do not seek favour from men because it comes from God. My interest was simply to right the wrong by emphasising on the Audit Report but Mrs Agnes Olojoba has turned against me instead of the state government and has begun to chew so much and so loudly by proclaiming sainthood in her pit of sin.

It may however bemuse me if her counsel, Barr Omonade Matthew Esq of the Festus Keyamo Chambers encourages any form of financial misappropriation or fraud by backing certain indicted persons in the society. Anyways, some facts are sacred and can only be presented in a courtroom. Guess two weeks has not elapsed.

***Watch out for full details of GOVT. AUDIT REPORT:The Report of The Special Audit of the Accounts of the School of Health Technology, Ufuoma dated 1st September, 2016 and signed by C. G. Amudo, Auditor General,Delta State.

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DELTA GOVT ISSUES 1,540 DEMAND NOTICES TO PROPERTY OWNERS –OMARE REVEALS

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DELTA GOVT ISSUES 1,540 DEMAND NOTICES TO PROPERTY OWNERS –OMARE REVEALS

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Chief Fank Omare
Chief Fank Omare

THE Delta State government has issued no fewer than 1,540 demand notices to owners of landed properties located on the Core Area 2 of the capital city territory, Okpanam, requesting them to immediately visit the state Ministry of Lands and Surveys to regularize all documents relating to the ownership and development of lands in that area.

The Chairman, Taskforce on the Regularization of Government lands in the area, Chief Frank Omare, who disclosed this to newsmen in Asaba yesterday, added that another 650 demand notices were also issued to owners of undeveloped lands in the area.

In a press briefing, Omare observed that the demand notices were issued to the affected land owners following a careful verification exercise carried out to ascertain the level of encroachment on the lands which, he said, had long been acquired by the state government.

He said the essence of the demand notices was not to witch-hunt anybody, but was aimed at regularizing and perfecting all documents relating to the acquisition and development of lands in that area, noting that only few land owners in that area have authentic Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) and other relevant documents.

The taskforce chairman disclosed that instead of a full payment for the acquisition of a Certificate of Occupancy, land survey and building approval, a 30 per cent discount has been given to as many persons who would turn up for the regularization exercise before the expiration of a 90 day ultimatum which started counting last Thursday.

Omare stressed that it is not the desire of the state government to demolish the houses of citizens in the state, particularly in the light of the lingering economic slump, but warned that government would be left with no alternative should the affected persons remain adamant to its appeals.

“As a government, we are appealing to all affected persons in that area. At present, nobody wants to demolish any house in that area, but we must compel everybody to go and regularize their documents so that we will have sanity and a clear cut of what we are doing.

“At the expiration of the 90 days, government must be government because we cannot allow people to keep taking laws into their hands, if you have any issue, go and sort it out in the Ministry of Lands and Surveys and you will be cleared. But if you are not cleared there, then you can come to this office (Taskforce on Regularization of Government Lands) and you will be cleared”, he said.

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Okpanam Indigenes, Land Owners Lament Govt's Exploitative Tendencies ***Alleges Political Vendetta In Land Recovery

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Okpanam Indigenes, Land Owners Lament Govt's Exploitative Tendencies ***Alleges Political Vendetta In Land Recovery

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Dan Okenyi
Dan Okenyi

The people of Okpanam community in Oshimili North local government area of Delta state have cried out over an alleged plot by the Governor Ifeanyi Okowa led administration, through the Ministry of Lands, Survey and Urban Development to unlawfully exploit them off their lands.

They however appealed to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to give the exercise a human face by properly attending to the views of the people of Okpanam, whose votes contributed to his victory at the polls.

The aggrieved indigenes frowned at the exercise, code named Core Area II A and Core Area II B, claiming that officials of the Ministry of Lands, Survey and Urban Developmthe, acting on the orders of the Commissioner, Sir Dan Okenyi, had begun the marking and pasting of Demand Notice on building properties in the areas.

They had also claimed that Okenyi’s actions are contrary to earlier agreements with the community, which according to them, gave room for negotiations on the charged fees, adding that Okenyi had inadvertently reneged on the advises of the former Director of Lands, who was summarily redeployed to DDPA and the Alex Eboka led committee which he single handedly dissolved against the good intentions of Governor Okowa.

“Okenyi has taken this issue personally against the peaceful people of Okpanam. He does things his own way by engaging some Okpanam youths to undo their own people. This is unfortunate. His actions are more political than policy driven.”

They said that the soft landing to land owners promised by Governor Okowa has turned to outright confrontation with the setting up of a task force led by Chief Frank Omare whom they claimed has threatened to roll in bulldozers for demolition within three months of notice.

They further said that the fees for the regularization of land titles are too high, saying that it overshot the actual fees payable for land allocation, C of O, and approved building plan by 100 percent, arguing that the earlier recommendations of the dissolved committees should have been taken seriously by the Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Dan Okenyi.

They therefore called on the state government to reconsider the regularization exercise and honour the input of land owners in carrying out its assignment.

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GROUP CLEARS NAPIMS BOSS, DAFE SEJEBOR ON UNFOUNDED ALLEGATIONS ***"SAHARA REPORTERS GOOFED, ADDAX PETROLEUM CULPABLE" –NDIMRC

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GROUP CLEARS NAPIMS BOSS, DAFE SEJEBOR ON UNFOUNDED ALLEGATIONS ***"SAHARA REPORTERS GOOFED, ADDAX PETROLEUM CULPABLE" –NDIMRC

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

NAPIMS boss, Mr Dafe Sejebor
NAPIMS boss, Mr Dafe Sejebor

THE Niger Delta Indigenous Movement for Radical Change (NDIMRC) has given the Group General Manager of National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), Mr Dafe Sejebor a clean bill of health over what it described as unfounded allegations.

Sahara Reporters had reported that the NAPIMS Boss and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu were pressuring oil giant, Addax Petroleum to purchase a building allegedly owned by businessman, Mr Jide Omokore for 48 Million Dollars above the asking price.

But the oil monitoring group dismissed the accusation against the Minister and the NAPIMS Boss and gave them a clean bill of health, saying Sahara Reporters goofed again.

In a press statement signed by its President, Nelly Emma; Secretary, John Sailor and Public Relations Officer, Stanley Mukoro, the group exnorated the Minister and the NAPIMS boss of allegations against them, saying that some elements who never wished them well were at their familiar blackmailing game again just to tarnish the good image of the Minister and the NAPIMS boss.

The group said it never accused Mr Sejebor of corruption and urged Sahara Reporters to refrain from misleading members of the public.

According to the group; “Our findings have shown that Mr Dafe Sejebor, NAPIMS Boss is innocent of the accusation against him that he is pressuring Addax Petroleum to purchase a building for its Headquarters for 115 Million Dollars, while the building is priced at 67 Million Dollars. There is no iota of truth in this allegation. It is also not true that our credible group accused Mr Sejebor of corruption in July this year. We never at no time accused him of corruption as we have no reason to do so”.

“In July, this group passed confidence vote on the NAPIMS Boss, Dafe Sejebor when he was wrongly accused of corruption and marginalisation by one Terry who claimed at the time to be writing on behalf of the Urhobo Youth Council Worldwide. We never accused him of corruption and therefore, Sahara Reporters should stop feeding members of the public with lies. To the best of our knowledge, NAPIMS under the watch of Mr Dafe Sejebor has been very transparent and he should be encouraged by all and sundry”, the group said.

The group added that;” As a credible oil monitoring group, our investigation revealed that Mr Dafe Sejebor never purchased a house in Houston, Texas valued at between 1.2 and 1.4 Million Dollars. It is also not true that the NAPIMS Boss has a front in the United States who has established companies in the US to use for his various dodgy schemes as claimed by the Sahara Reporters. These are laughable allegations and calculated attempt to blackmail the NAPIMS Boss. These unfounded allegations against the hard-working NAPIMS Boss are unacceptable to us and the entire people of the oil-rich Niger Delta Region.”

“Our checks also revealed that the issue of the property in question has been on for over 13 years and has nothing to do with the Petroleum Minister and the NAPIMS Boss. We are blaming Addax Petroleum over the allegations. Addax Petroleum is deeply behind the allegations as a result of its violation of the Joint Venture Law. Addax Petroleum is not respecting the JV Law”.

While imploring Addax Petroleum to act as a responsible Company, the group stated that; “It is on this note that we want to give the NAPIMS boss, Mr Dafe Sejebor a clean of health over these fresh allegations against him and to urge him not to be distracted, but to continue his good works”.

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Right Of Reply: Gov Okowa Never Slumped Nor Flown Out For Illness – The True Story

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Right Of Reply: Gov Okowa Never Slumped Nor Flown Out For Illness – The True Story

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state

Yesterday morning, I got a call from a journalist friend to confirm a story that the Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa slumped in his office and was taken out.

I was shocked at the news and told him to disregard it. I went to the government house quickly to confirm for myself and asked about the governor. I got the answer.

As an investigative wandering soul, I decided to make more enquiries if truly the governor was sick and taken out for treatment. One thing was however certain, Okowa can’t be sick and his Principal Secretary, Hilary Ibegbulem won’t be with him wherever he was taken to.

On Sunday, from 6:30pm to 11:48pm, I was with Hilary from where we went to sit out till we drove to his house where we discussed the USA debate that was to take place by 2am til I left him to my hotel room. Okowa cannot be sick and Hilary will be sitting comfortably in his house.

I was in government house the next day and it was busy as usual. I asked about the governor but he was not on sit. I was surprised when someone sent me a text to confirm if Okowa slumped and I replied in the negative. This morning, Deltans especially the opposition are already spreading the evil news.

Here is the true story, not told me by Hilary but from my own private investigation.

Last week, one of the tiles in the office fell on his leg while he was in the bathroom which injured him a little. Okowa is known to hate drawing sympathy to himself and instead of coming to office on Monday or going to functions with injury, where the loving people of Deltans will be saying “sorry your Excellency”, he decided to treat himself in the house. When did such become an illness or slump?

Okowa is currently in government house Hale and hearty. He cannot go to the office now as the bathroom is under renovation. He’s in governor’s lodge which is less than five minutes walk to his office and treating files.

Why are we this wicked as a people that exaggerate things that are not true? Do we now wish the governor evil when we should be praying for him? Okowa will not and never hide his illness from the people he governs if he was ill. Okowa will not play secrecy with his health.

I will be going to the government house in few hours time and will take pictures of him to show those doubting Thomases.

Recall that Sahara Reporters had alleged that the Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, reportedly slumped over last Wednesday at the government house in Asaba, claiming that the Governor who was billed to attend the World Teachers Day celebration at the cenotaph last Wednesday, slumped over at his office preventing his attendance.

The State Commissioner for Information, Patrick Ukah, and the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to governor, Charles Aniagwu had since debunked the story claiming it was not true.

*Courtesy: Secret Reporters

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

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Fraud @ Delta College Of Health Technology, Ofuoma, Ughelli ***As Audit Report Indicts Provost, Dr. (Mrs) Agnes Olojoba

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Fraud @ Delta College Of Health Technology, Ofuoma, Ughelli ***As Audit Report Indicts Provost, Dr. (Mrs) Agnes Olojoba

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Dr. (Mrs) Agnes Olojoba
Dr. (Mrs) Agnes Olojoba

THE Delta State School of Health Technology (DESCOHTECH) , Ofuoma, ranks among the best colleges of Health Technology in the country, but the Provost of the institution, Mrs. Dr. (Mrs) Agnes Olojoba has plunged the revered school into a business cartel with support of key personalities in Governor Ifeanyi Okowa led government.

According to undeniable proof, the Provost of the institution, Dr. (Mrs) Agnes Olojoba has virtually ran the school aground having been indicted ofmisappropriating over a hundreds million naira accruing to the institution, a recent Delta state audit report has proven.

There are also clear indications that she is determined, with the help of her cronies in government, to initiate the exit of the Governing Council, School of Health Technology, Ofuoma (DESCOHTECH), headed by Dr. (Pharm.) Nelson Ejakpovi, who is presently said to be out of the country. Some members of the Governing Council, include Dr Chris Oharisi and Hon, Sunny Tatauzugu, among others.

A source at the institution disclosed that “the Governing Council of the institution which was constituted by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, seems to be on a close check of her activities and she does not want anything like that, having been solely in charge. She is making frantic efforts to ensure the dissolution of the Governing Council.”

Pharm. Ejakpovi, who was Secretary to the Medical Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the governorship campaigns in Delta State, is on his third coming as Chairman, Governing Council of this institution.

Delta State School of Health Technology (Delsotech) came into being, following the creation of Delta state on 27th August 1991, also allowing the State Government to commence the execution of its own health care delivery services to the benefit of the citizens of the state.

Provost of the institution, Dr. (Mrs) Agnes Olojoba who had previously congratulated Governor Okowa for the constitution of the Governing Council, had made a u-turn, having realised that the huge sums accruing to her personally is no longer enough.

The lid on her nefarious activities in the running of the institution, was however blown open when the school under her watch was audited and it was discovered that she has illegally embezzled over N100 million in clear terms.

Dr. (Mrs) Agnes Olojoba has deliberately avoided media contacts, despite efforts made by our investigative reporter.

The school trains Middle Health Care Manpower under the Primary Health Care Sector of the economy.

***Watch Out for details for Audit Report!!!

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World Teachers' Day: Gov. Okowa Approves Release Of Funds For Delta Teachers

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World Teachers' Day: Gov. Okowa Approves Release Of Funds For Delta Teachers

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Delta Deputy Governor, Kingsley Otuaro (right) & NUT boss, Comrade Jemirieyigbe Jonathan
Delta Deputy Governor, Kingsley Otuaro (right) & NUT boss, Comrade Jemirieyigbe Jonathan

Delta state governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has approved the release of funds for the immediate payment of backlog of salaries owed teachers in both primary and secondary schools in the state.

Governor Okowa, who was represented by his Deputy, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, at the celebration of World Teachers Day on Wednesday, in Asaba, said the state government has given approval and the release money for the immediate payment of salary of teachers, 2015/16 promotion of both primary and secondary school teachers, reinstatement of the deleted names of those on payroll and others.

While saying that the union has displayed remarkable statesmanship in this very trying period, the governor assured that his administration will continue to strive to improve the welfare of teachers in the state and also create more conducive learning climate in the educational institution.

He however, promised that things will pick up when the financial crisis confronting Nigeria’s economy improves, just as he thanked the teachers, as well as the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) executives for shelving the planned strike for last month, noting that it was a good indication of their willingness and readiness to partner with the state government to deliver good and quality education by ensuring that school calendar is not disrupted.

Teachers in Delta state, had earlier through the state wing chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Jemirieyigbe Jonathan, requested Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to respond swiftly to it and the immediate payment of their May and July 2016 salaries before it culminate into an industrial dispute.

They threatened that their union has prepared to fight the “principalities” frustrating the educational system in the state and Nigeria at large, urging the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), to furnish the state government with the information of indebtedness to primary school teachers.

Although, they lauded the favourable disposition of the state government to some issues, they wondered why Governor Ifeanyi Okowa failed to pay the N89 million teachers’ salary since May warning that his members in the state deserve a sense of value and an improved status.

The aggrieved teachers further decried the stance of Governor Okowa towards the upward review of graduate teachers’ promotion to grade level 15 and above, and called a probe of the ongoing screening of workers in the state by Hercabella that led to the deletion of some teachers’ names from the payroll.

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RE: CHIEF NWACHELI INSTALLED OKPALA-UKU OF ABALA KINGDOM – A FALACY

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RE: CHIEF NWACHELI INSTALLED OKPALA-UKU OF ABALA KINGDOM – A FALACY

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Hon. Chijioke Nwanze– 
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The recent publication in The Pointer Newspaper of Tuesday, September 20, 2016 on Pages 18 and 19 captioned “Chief Nwacheli Installed Okpala-Ukwu Of Abala kingdom” has drawn the anger of the people of the kingdom. As an indigene, former councilor and an enlightened personality, one would have ignored the story as portrayed, but for the fact that the newspaper is a government mouth piece and the public may be swayed by the complete misrepresentation of facts by the publishers.

The position of Okpala-Ukwu is common among the Anioma people of Delta State and it is traditionally occupied by the oldest man in a community. The oldest man is chosen by God and not man. The said Chief Nwacheli is neither the oldest nor second-in-command in the kingdom. In addition, regency is foreign to Abala kingdom as the people have no monarchial rulership but the king is selected from among the three ruling houses in Dukwenze Quarters of Abala-Uno. At the demise of a king, the eldest man presides over community traditional meetings.

A little revelation suffices at this juncture. Presently the oldest Okpala of Abala-Uno is Chief Daniel Uzolie Nwaefulu of Diakpulu Quarters, followed by Chief Odozie Ugulu, the Okpala of Umu Iyasele-Oje, followed by Chief Jacob Ezeobi, the Okpala of Umuoshele Quarters before the said Omordi Nwacheli Ikeopia Nwadishi as Okpala of Umu Nkini. He is fourth in command. He is not the Okpala-Uku of Abala, and not a regent as portrayed in the report.

In recent years, some mischievous individuals have arrogated to themselves, powers to distort the history and tradition of the people. Such actions have reflected in the fractionalization of the traditional institution and the leadership of the town’s union.
This development has cast a clog in the development of Abala kingdom as individuals with strong desire to either invest or execute developmental projects were forced into their shells.

The recent kangaqroo and purported installation of one Chief Nwacheli as Okpala-Uku of Abala kingdom is one of the gimmicks of these individuals to further cause disaffection in Abala kingdom.
Abala kingdom is made up of three communities namely: Abala-Uno, Abala-Oshimili and Abala-Obodo (not Abala-Ugada as falsified in the publication). Ugada is just a Quarter in Abala-Obodo.
Abala Oshimili and Abala-Obodo migrated from Abala-Uno.
Abala-Uno is made up of four major quarters namely: Dukwenze, Diakpulu, Ishubom and Umuoshele/Ugada quarters. It is a fallacy to state that all four quarters are sons of one parent – Abalam Ala and his wife Akuba. It is only Dukwenze descendants that are addressed as Umu-Akuba. Diakpulu descendants are addressed as Umu-Ekwe, Ishubom as Umu-Oma, while Umu-Oshele and Ugada are addressed as Agidi and Obo Amilekwe respectively. There are proofs that the different quarters in Abala have no common feast, all feasts are specifically owned by different quarters.

It is a lie that Diakpulu is the second son of Abalam-Ala, Ishubom third and Umu-Oshele/Ugada fourth. If they were all children of one parent, why are only Dukwenze descendants crowned as kings of Abala.
It is also not true to say that Abalam-Ala and the wife, Akuba arrived in the town called Abala today. Abalam-Ala and his wife Akuba never saw Abala land before their death. That is the reason why the gods of Abala land is exclusively served by Umu-Iyasele Ojeh royal family. So also the gods of the only river of Abala (Ezute) which encouraged all citizens to settle in Abala is exclusively served by same Umu-Iyasele Ojeh royal family of Dukwenze. What is the meaning of having such exclusive right – it is an ownership right.
The origin of this distorted history was from late Odua S.O. Egbunkonye and aided by late E.F. Ogbukaa when the entire Abala were virtually asleep.
Dukwenze Quarter is made up of three royal families namely: Umu-Odume family, Umu-Iyalsele Ojeh and Umu-Nkini. The traditional ruler of Abala exclusively comes from Dukwenze and the three families are equally eligible to be enthroned as Igwe of Abala, if unanimously selected by the three family heads.

The issue of regent is foreign to the tradition of kingship in Abala kingdom. The Traditional Rulers and Chiefs’ Edict Of 1979 section 16 (1) and (2) states the appointment of a regent.
16. (1)”Where a traditional title which is hereditary by primogeniture is vacant and the hair-apparent to the title is a minor or does not ascend the throne immediately after the title becomes vacant, the executive council may approve the appointment of a person or persons as request….
2. Any appointment made and approved under section (1) of this section shall cease to be effective on the date on which the hair-apparent to the traditional ruler title attains the age of eighteen years. This is the position of regent.
Abala kingship is not hereditary and therefore cannot have a regent and that has never happened in the history of Abala. If a king dies in Abala, nobody can predict who comes next because it is by selection not hereditary.

ORIGIN OF OKPALA-UKWU OF UMU NKINI

The three royal families in Dukwenze are headed by three eldest surviving men called Okpala. But a time came, out of greed, the Nkini family alone split into seven Okpalas representing family lineages and each busied himself crowning their children as kings indiscriminately, until a powerful king, Eze Egbunkonye of Umu-Nkini was crowned and he decreed to families that all deities being served by all the seven Okpalas should be handed over to the eldest Okpala of the family. He further directed that the eldest should be addressed as the Okpala-Uku of Umu-Nkini. This is evidenced in a letter addressed to the Director of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mid-Western Nigeria dated July 14, 1964 and signed by Ngwei Nwoji as Okpala-Uku of Umu-Nkini, Adigwe Ngechi also signed as second Okpala-Uku of Umu-Nkini. None signed as a regent.
It is important to point out that the position of Okpala-Uku of Umu-Nkini is now contrived to be imposed on Abala people. Every right thinking indigene should resist this imposition

Many Okpala-Uku of Umu-Nkini existed when no kings were reigning, yet none was installed as regents. Okpala-Uku Agbedi of Umu-Nkini was alive for years before Igwe Ezefili came onboard as a king. He was not a regent. Igwe Ezefili died in 1994 and Chief Ochia became the Okpala-Uku of Umu-Nkini and was never installed by the “wise” Umu-Nkini sons and daughters as regent. Okpala-Uku Omeyi of Umu-Nkini lived also when there was no king in Abala and also was not installed as Regent.
Things in Abala started to change when a few power-drunk from Umu Nkini family sponsored Okpala-Uku Richard Nwanachi of Umu-Nkini into assuming the post of a regent but was shocked after he was rejected by the Ndokwa East Local Government Area Traditional Council Committee, citing section 16 of the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs’ Edict Of 1979. The said Okpala died recently, less than two months after the embarrassment.

As if the death of the last Okpala (Nwanachi) was not enough lessons, the same persons deceived the next Okpala-Uku of Umu Nkini – (Nwacheli Ikeopia Nwadishi) and purportedly installed him as regent. They addressed him in a language he never understood that was why in his address, he thanked Abala citizens present for “Choosing Him”. He realized he was addressed in borrowed robes. Ironically, Okpala-Uku is not chosen by man but God.

Presently the Okpala-Uku of Abala-Uno is Chief Daniel Uzolie Nwaefulu of Diakpulu Quarters, Abala-Uno, followed by Chief Odozie Ugulu of Umu Iyasele Oje, followed by Chief Jacob Ezeobi, of Umuoshele Quarters before Omordi Nwacheli Ikeopia, who is the Okpala-Ukwu of Umu Nkini, presiding over the other family Okpalas. He is fourth in command in Abala kingdom. He is not the Okpala-Ukwu of Abala kingdom and not a regent.

In the event that a reigning king dies, the entire community shifts all meetings to the eldest man in the community (Okpala-Uku). Examples were Okpala-Uku,  Uzor Uku of Umu-Oshele/Ugada Quarters, Oshele Anukwu of Umushele/Ugada, Udawai of Umu Iyasele Ojeh, Nwaebichi of Umu-Nkini, Ebili of Umu-Odume, Nwabueze of Umu-Odume and Ezeatu of Umu-Odume, among others.
These people were Okpala Uku of Abala when no kings were on the throne and the entire community assembled in their compounds, peacefully, for meetings.
None of this Okpala-Ukus was addressed as His Royal Highness (HRH).
To show the level of power drunkenness of these persons, the Iyase Onowu (Traditional Prime Minister) of Abala kingdom, Chief Uche E. Nwadialor, was recently written that he is subject to the Okpala of Umu-Nkini. When will this misinformation and misrepresentation of facts end.

Finally, it is not true to say that the Okpala-Uku of Umu-Nkini installed all past kings and Ofor Nze always returned to the Okpala of Umu-Nkini after an Igwe’s death. The Okpala-Uku of Umu-Odume installed Eze Onyeamali, the OKpala-Uku of Umu-Iyasele Ojeh installed Eze Adimone, the Okpala-Uku of Umu-Iyasele Ojeh installed Eze Uzorka, the Okpala-Uku of Umu-Iyasele Ojeh installed Eze F.C. Iyasele. The Okpala-Uku of Umu-Nkini installed Eze Ezefili also the Okpala-Uku of Umu-Nkini installed Eze Ogbukaa. Who gave Eze Adimone of Umu-Iyasele Ojeh the Ofor Nze with which he ruled? Who gave Eze Onyeamali of Umu-Odume the Ofor Nze with which he ruled? Who gave Eze Uzorka of Umu-Iyasele Ojeh the Ofor Nze with which he ruled? Who gave Eze Iyasele of Umu-Iyasele Ojeh the Ofor Nze with which he ruled? Who in Umu-Iyasele Ojeh or Umu Odume returned Ofor-Nze to any Okpala of Umu Nkini?
These facts are verifiable and the people of Abala can attest to these facts.

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EKE IMPLORES NIGERIANS TO DIALOGUE, SUE FOR PEACE AT ALL TIMES

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EKE IMPLORES NIGERIANS TO DIALOGUE, SUE FOR PEACE AT ALL TIMES

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 
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The National Coordinator of African Peace Ambassadors Network (APAN) Inc., Rev. Chukwudi Eke, has enjoined all Nigerians, irrespective of their religious and ethnic differences, to maintain and sustain the peace that our founding fathers fought to realize before and after the independence of our dear nation. 

He made the remarks during the peace rally, summit and press conference that APAN held in celebration of this year’s World Peace Day in Asaba.

Rev. Eke, who is the immediate past Commissioner representing Ndokwa people on the Board of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), recalled that in 2001, the United Nations’ General Assembly adopted a new resolution 55/282 declaring 21 September of each year as the international day of peace. 

He explained that “the intention of the resolution is to have the entire world observe a day of peace and non-violence.  It’s a day that armed violence is to be stilled; a day for combatants to cease fire, commit to non-violence and peaceful resolution of conflicts and disputes. It is a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.” 

The national Coordinator of APAN explained that “though this year’s global theme is ‘The Sustainable Development Goals: Building Blocks for Peace,’ we are localizing the theme to be ‘Peace building begins with Me.’” 

He, therefore, called on all aggrieved people and groups, including the Niger-Delta militants and pro-Biafra group, to seek dialogue and cease from violence and destruction of lives and properties. He stated that “though the groups are struggling for genuine causes, there’s need to pursue right causes through peaceful dialogue. 

We, also, urge the government to positively consider the reasons for which our peace, unity and progress are threatened; and proactively do something more positive and inclusive to sustain the peace.”

Rev. Eke succinctly remarked that, “Together we can make our neighbourhoods and nation more peaceful. And the process of peacebuilding for sustainable development begins with each one of us. Yes, peace process begins with me and you as stakeholders.” 

The organization, APAN, mobilized people and many NGOS from different walks of life to join them in celebrating this year’s World Peace Day, by rallying round the city of Asaba, trekking for peace; sensitizing the people, organizing lectures and symposium in schools, creating more awareness that will lead to more peace and unity in our families, communities and in the state and nation as a whole. 

Some of the civil society organizations that collaborated with APAN included International Centre for Women Empowerment & Child Development (CWECD), Core Delta Youths (CDY) Initiative, Integrity for Leadership Inc., Foundation for Conservation of the Earth (FOCONE), Delta Patriots Inc., and Coalition of Ndokwa Peace Ambassadors (CONPA) among many others.

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BUSINESS SUMMIT: How To Grow Your Money

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BUSINESS SUMMIT: How To Grow Your Money

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By ISAIAH OGHENEVWEGBA OGEDEGBE– 

Pastor Isaiah Ogedegbe
Pastor Isaiah Ogedegbe

INTRODUCTION

First and foremost, I want to commend my friend Baile S. Golly Debi for choosing this theme: “HOW TO GROW YOUR MONEY.” Nearly everyone wants to grow his or her money, but few people actually know what they need to do in order to achieve it. Growing your money takes a combination of four i’s: (1) INDEPENDENCE (2) INCREASE your net worth (3) INCOME should be spent wisely and (4) INVEST earlier than later.

(1) INDEPENDENCE: If you want to grow your money, first become independent financially. For example, someone working as a salesboy or a salesgirl has a fixed salary at the end of every month, regardless of his or her commitment to the business of his or her employer. If they should start a business of their own, their income will no longer be static or come at the end of the month. James 4:3 says that people ask but do not receive, because they ask amiss. Any financially dependent person that is praying to God for a higher income is obviously asking amiss, because when God answers his prayer it is his employer that will actually smile to the bank.

Instead of praying to God for a higher income that you may not benefit from, you should start saving your present income until you have a reasonable amount of money. Then you can start up your own business and start praying to God for a higher income. A higher income is only for the financial independent, who dare to step out on their own. When you have started your own business, put in your very best and it will grow with time. As it grows, your money will also grow. The simple truth is that no one can love you like yourself, and no one can pay you like yourself.

(2) INCREASE YOUR NET WORTH: If you want to grow your money, increase your net worth. Your net worth is the value of everything you own minus the value of everything you owe. If you subtract your total liabilities from your total assets, you will arrive at your net worth. You need to study your net worth regularly. The idea is to increase your assets and reduce your liabilities.

(3) INCOME SHOULD BE SPENT WISELY: Nearly everyone gets money, but not everyone gets rich. For example, two employees working in a company get paid the same salary at the end of the month. What makes the difference in their lives in the years to come is how each of them will spend his income. One may spend his income carelessly on liabilities, while the other may invest his own in business and start making profit. Your income is meant to be used to increase your net worth, by increasing your assets and reducing your liabilities.

(4) INVEST EARLIER THAN LATER: Time is a very important factor when it comes to growing your money. For example, someone that invested in business five years ago cannot be on the same financial level with another person that starts investing today. The financial disparity is obviously caused by time.

It is not having a well-paid job that matters, but your ability to plan for the future which is uncertain. No one prays to lose his job, yet people lose their jobs every day. In a situation of retirement, what would you fall back on if you had not saved for the rainy day? Someone can have a well-paid job, but have a zero net worth. To be fired or retired with a zero net worth is to live a life of financial frustration and regret.

CONCLUSION

If you can handle the money you earn wisely no matter how meagre it is, by investing it, by saving it and by reducing your living expenses, you will definitely grow your money.

*ISAIAH OGHENEVWEGBA OGEDEGBE writes from Warri, Delta state. CONTACT: 08134836494

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Nigeria @ 56: Okowa Challenges Niger Delta Avengers, Other Militant Groups On Peace

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Nigeria @ 56: Okowa Challenges Niger Delta Avengers, Other Militant Groups On Peace

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Gov. Okowa
Gov. Okowa

Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has called on the Niger Delta Avengers and all militant groups in the Niger Delta to give peace a chance and halt all forms of attacks on oil pipelines and installations to enable relevant stakeholders address issues as it relates to their agitations.

This is contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, and made available to Blank NEWS Online on Friday, September 30, 2016.

While congratulating Deltans and Nigerians as they celebrate Nigeria’s 56th Independence anniversary, Governor Okowa extended best wishes of fifty-six years of self-rule and control, praying that the desires of our forgone heroes and the promises of independence be fulfilled in the lives of Nigerians especially at this time of economic recession.

‎He assured all Deltans, at home and abroad, of accelerated development in every area of the state as well as apparent improvement in the economic life of the people.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I congratulate Nigerians, Deltans on the occasion of our 56th Independence Anniversary Celebrations.

“As we celebrate Nigeria’s 56th independence anniversary and usher in the period of festivity, I urge all Deltans and indeed Nigerians irrespective of tribe and religion to live in peace as Nigeria can only achieve the aspirations of her founding fathers if we live together in peace.

“I also use this medium to call on the Niger Delta Avengers and all militant groups in the Niger Delta to give peace a chance and halt all forms of attacks on oil pipelines and installations to enable relevant stakeholders address issues as it relates to their agitations.

“It is no longer news that our economy is currently in recession and our people are feeling the hardship but with our efforts towards realizatuon of the S.M.A.R.T. Agenda, our people should celebrate and entertain no fear, ‎as we are about to experience prosperity for all Deltans, progress in the state as well as genuine improvement in the lives of Deltans”, he stressed.

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Edo Governorship Election: APC's Obaseki Floors PDP's Ize-Iyamu To Become Governor-Elect

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Edo Governorship Election: APC's Obaseki Floors PDP's Ize-Iyamu To Become Governor-Elect

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 
obas-300x2361
The All Progressive Congress (APC) candidate, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has won the Edo State governorship election based on the results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Thursday.

Obaseki was declared winner of the election after polling 319, 483 votes, while his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) rival, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, garnered 253, 173.

He edged out Ize-Iyamu with 66, 310 votes in the election held across Edo State on Wednesday.

A total of 1, 900, 223 voters registered for the election, while 622,039 were accredited.

The APC won in 13 out of the 18 local government areas of the state and the PDP triumphed in five.

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Alleged Fraud: Aba Mega Mall May Suffer Set Back 

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Alleged Fraud: Aba Mega Mall May Suffer Set Back 

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Computer Crime
Computer Crime

Prospective traders seeking space in the 920-store capacity Aba Mega Hall, Abia State, may lose their investment in the edifice as the contractors who executed the jobs, estimated at more than N2 Billion, have threatened court action to forestall moves to rent the shops.

They warned traders to steer clear of the structure until alleged fraudulent payments that trailed the projects are addressed and their contract sum is paid to them in full.

The mega mall was executed as a Private Public Partnership (PPP) project between the Abia State Government, Greenfield Assets Limited and First City Monument Bank (FCMB) on a tripartite arrangement with the Abia State Government providing the land at Osissioma Park, Aba, while the Greenfield Assets Limited is the developer and the FCMB the financier.

Spokesman of the contractors, Mr. Willie E. Ureki, told Journalists that the contractors resolved for a court action as recent development indicated that the developer had a game plan to defraud them of more than 80 percent of their investment in the project.

According to him, the 10 contractors that executed 92 shops each at the sum of N128.4 million, have received just a paltry sums, adding that the Group Managing Director of Greenfield Assets Limited, Mr. Paul Obanua, was allegedly informing the public that the company was not owing the contractors.

He explained that the Abia State Government has initiated moves to give out the shops on the strength of the information from Greenfield Assets Limited and warned that the contractors would frustrate plans to sell the shops. 

Mr. Ureki, giving an insight into the entire deal, recalled that the fear of the contractors was heightened by the use of soldiers to chase some of them out of the site when they were being owed millions of naira.

The spokesman revealed that at the onset of the contract work, payment milestone for cash disbursement in advance was agreed upon with the contractors, stressing that sooner than construction works started at the site than Greenfield unilaterally altered the terms of payment from the first initial cash payment of N24.1million to mere N7million.

“Not too long, the contractors began to smell a rat when invoices were submitted and no payment was forthcoming”, he stated, adding that the contractors were also reduced to mere labourers as Greenfield Management allegedly stopped them from bringing materials to site as all materials were to be supplied by them.

He said it has been proved that management of FCMB has recently released the entire funds to Thomclem Limited’s Account from where it was transferred to Greenfield Assets Limited, alleging that top management of FCMB was part of the fraud as they kept mute and fail to respond to the complaints of the contractors who had alerted them of the fraudulent intentions.

Mr. Ureki used the medium to appeal to Abia State Government, who is asking traders to take up the shops, to investigate the alleged fraud and step in and ensure that the contractors are paid to avoid litigation that would mar efforts to occupy the mall.

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Gov. Okowa Inaugurates 2016 Job Creation Scheme In Amukpe

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Gov. Okowa Inaugurates 2016 Job Creation Scheme In Amukpe

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (2nd left); his Deputy, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro (left) Chief Job Creation Officer, Prof. Eric Eboh (middle); Commissioner for Economic Planing, Dr. Kingsley Emu (2nd right) and Secretary to State Government, Hon. Ovie Agas, during the Inauguration of the 2016 Cycle, Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP), at Songhai Delta, Amukpe.
Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (2nd left); his Deputy, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro (left) Chief Job Creation Officer, Prof. Eric Eboh (middle); Commissioner for Economic Planing, Dr. Kingsley Emu (2nd right) and Secretary to State Government, Hon. Ovie Agas, during the Inauguration of the 2016 Cycle, Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP), at Songhai Delta, Amukpe.

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has described entrepreneurship as the best way out of the current unemployment challenges facing Nigeria.

According to the governor, getting jobs in government organizations are becoming very difficult based on the high number of graduates chasing the few opportunities available, observing that the way out was for people to acquire skills, empowered to be self sufficient and become employers of labour.

The governor who stated this during the inauguration ceremony of the 2016 cycle of his administration’s job creation scheme on Wednesday, September 18, 2016 at the Songhai-Delta training centre Amukpe, emphasized that “we are training you to become job creators that we need in Delta State, you are here to improve on your lives and be in a position to be employers of labour.”

“I believe that you are going to step into a greater future. I want to see you as better Deltans, Deltans who will say, I have been able to create jobs for my self and jobs for others,” he said, disclosing, “I have visited some farms and I have seen the enthusiasm from those who graduated from these programmes; if you want to succeed, you must be passionate about what you are doing.”

Governor Okowa who assured Deltans the programme would be continuous, further advised the participant, “you have to be committed to that which you have learnt because, I have a passion to turn many youths of Delta State into persons who will create jobs for others; you should rely on God and you will succeed in whatever you do and do not sell your starter packs.”

He also, urged graduates of the programme to ensure that they give thanks to God stating, “you are going to reap more if you are dedicated to God.”

Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (right) and His Royal Majesty, Efeziuomor the II, Obi of Owa Kingdom
Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (right) and His Royal Majesty, Efeziuomor the II, Obi of Owa Kingdom

The Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Emmanuel Efeizomor II, Obi of Owa who spoke on behalf of traditional rulers who attended the ceremony, expressed satisfaction with the success stories of the empowerment programmes, asserting, “this is a revolution that put food on the table, revolution that will extricate you from the shackles of poverty.”
Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (right) and Chief Job Creation Officer, Prof. Eric Eboh
Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (right) and Chief Job Creation Officer, Prof. Eric Eboh

The Chief Job Creation Officer in the state, Prof. Eric Eboh in a speech, said, participants in the programme were for Skill Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP), Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (YAGEP), and Graduate Employment Enhancement Programme (GEEP).

He stated, “as proof of growing stakeholders’ confidence in the job creation scheme, international development partners and non-governmental organizations have intensified technical support and collaboration for training, monitoring, service delivery feedback and mentoring.”

Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah (left) and Sapele Local Government Chairman, Hon. Ejeife Odebala
Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah (left) and Sapele Local Government Chairman, Hon. Ejeife Odebala

The Delta state Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, while giving the vote of thanks commended Deltans for believing in the lucrative and people oriented policy initiatives of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, whom he said is poised to reposition the mindset of youths in the state from being job seekers to job creators through various entrepreneurial schemes.
Cross section of trainees
Cross section of trainees

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APC Leaders Declare Oyegun "Man Of Integrity" ***Lambasts Tinubu's Call For His Resignation

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APC Leaders Declare Oyegun "Man Of Integrity" ***Lambasts Tinubu's Call For His Resignation

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Oyegun
Oyegun

Support for the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Oyegun mounted on Tuesday as prominent leaders of the party lauded his leadership qualities, describing him as “a man of honour, integrity and dignity”.

In a statement in Abuja by the Chairman of APC United Front, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa, the leaders described as laughable the calls on Oyegun to resign as chairman of the APC by Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his co-travellers, saying the world has seen a more progressive party under his dynamic leadership

“Chief Odigie Oyegun is not under the influence of a powerful and sinister arm of government. He will never thwart the will of the people” the leaders said.

They praised the national chairman for his strategic roles in internal party governance and in the development and promulgation of party policy.

Listing intellectual depth, credible track record, futuristic vision and personal integrity as key requirements for a progressive leader, the leaders eulogized Oyegun for giving equal rights and opportunities to members of the APC regardless of status, class and affiliation.

“Leadership goes with creativity, sensitivity, compassion, innovation, courage, vision, character, competence, focus, passion, responsibility, self-discipline, service delivery and a very high dosage of patriotism. Oyegun is an embodiment of transparency and accountability” the statement said.

The leaders commended Oyegun for bringing about a more dynamic way of administering the affairs of the party, sacrificing his comfort to work tirelessly for the party and for allowing the wheel of democracy to run constitutionally.

“As a man with impeccable record in governance and party politics, Chief Odigie Oyegun will never derail from the path of honour”

The leaders, who also thanked Nigerians at home and abroad for the confidence reposed on Oyegun, applauded him for the pragmatic steps taken to address the problems emanating from the party’s primaries in Ondo State.

“Oyegun is an honest and highly effective leader. He has built a reputation anchored on integrity over the years. He is a fountain of quality advice, inspiration, encouragement and hope. He deserves the biggest thanks for being a team player and using his undivided and thorough leadership style in growing the party” the leaders said.

Identifying his commitment to principle in the practice of politics, the rule of law and the best democratic tradition of fairness as some of the attributes that brought him into collusion with Tinubu and others, the leaders commended him for enriching the development journey of the party and the country.

The leaders described the decision of the Appeal Panel as selfish.

“Oyegun is honest, dedicated, committed, and God fearing. He is a consummate politician, proven administrator and a bridge builder. He is a man of honour, integrity and dignity” the statement said.

The leaders while describing Oyegun as a true democrat, a hard-working, progressive person and leader with credibility, character and calm advised him to continue with his good work.

They also advised Tinubu not to destroy the party with his selfish and anti-democratic agenda.

The leaders, who also recalled the sterling performance of Oyegun during his days as governor of Edo State, said the current national chairman of APC performed excellently in all the sectors.

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FAAC: FG, States, LGs Share August Revenue

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FAAC: FG, States, LGs Share August Revenue

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Kemi Adeosun, Finance Minister
Kemi Adeosun, Finance Minister

The Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, on Tuesday in Abuja said N510.2 billion was shared among the federal, states and local governments as revenue realised in August.

Adeosun made the disclosure while addressing a news conference on the outcome of the Federation Account Allocation Committee.

The amount is higher than the N493.6 billion shared in July by N16.6 billion.

The minister said during the month, N315 billion was generated as statutory distributable revenue, adding that this was higher than the N287.8 billion received in the previous month by N27.22 billion.

She added: “The sum of N6.3 billion was refunded to the Federation Account by Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.

“There is a proposed distribution of N35 billion Excess Petroleum Profit Tax.

“Also, there was the exchange gain of N84.2 billion proposed for distribution.”

Adeosun also said Value Added Tax was N75.9 billion as against N66.9 billion generated in July, indicating an increase of N8.9 billion.

She added that mineral revenue for the month was N158.7 billion, while that of July was N119.4 billion, non-mineral revenue for August was N156.3 billion and that of July was N168.4 billion.

Giving the breakdown of revenue among the three tiers, Adeosun said the Federal Government received N187.3 billion, representing 52.68 per cent, while states got N95.0 billion, representing 26.72 per cent.

Local governments, she said, received N73.2 billion, amounting to 20.60 per cent of the amount distributed, while N18.4 billion, representing 13 per cent derivation revenue, was shared among oil producing states.

According to her, crude oil export volume increased by 2.2 million barrels in May in spite of the brief Force Majeure declared at Qua Iboe and Bonny Terminals.

She also said that there was $109 million revenue increase in federation export sales as a result of the increase in average price of crude oil from $42.2 in April to $46 per barrel in May.

She said there was a rise in dutiable imports, which contributed significantly to the increase recorded by import duty and VAT.

Adeosun said the balance of the excess crude account stood at $2.91 billion.

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Participate In Emergence Of Leaders, Ukah Urges Private Sector

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Participate In Emergence Of Leaders, Ukah Urges Private Sector

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 
  

Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah in a group photograph with founder of Academy for Governance, Prof. Austine Nwandulu and participants at the train the trainer programme on the Fundamentals of Leadership
Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah in a group photograph with founder of Academy for Governance, Prof. Austine Nwandulu and participants at the train the trainer programme on the Fundamentals of Leadership

Nigeria as a nation is still where it is today because the private sector has refused to take part in the emergence of leaders at all levels.

Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, stated this on Sunday at the opening session of train the trainer programme on the Fundamentals of Leadership currently being hosted by the Academy for Governance in Ibusa Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State .

Mr. Ukah said the full take off of the academy in the state will help to inculcate fundamental leadership traits into participants and challenged youths and Deltans in general to maximize the opportunity.

The commissioner expressed worry over the way youths were involved in unwholesome acts like armed robbery, drug trafficking and consumption, adding that mentoring them now would bring a paradigm shift in their lifestyle.

He assured the founder and management of the school of government’s partnership, emphasizing that apart from being a knowledge center, it will create jobs for the host community and the state at large.

He told stakeholders of the school that their vision was in line with the SMART agenda of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa whom, he said, has given erudite scholars opportunity to use their knowledge to train and empower  youths to become employers of labour in different fields.

Mr. Ukah said the entrepreneurial programmes of Governor Okowa has raised over one thousand five hundred small, medium and large scale businessmen in different fields, stressing that a new batch of participants will commence training this week.

He further added that the Asaba airport was being expanded and upgraded to meet  the required  standard that can take all kinds of planes.

According to him, the four sea ports and massive construction of roads and other potentials of the state were being harnessed to turn it into an economic hub for South South and South East geopolitical zones of the country.

On his part, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Barrister Chiedu Ebie,  represented by his Special Assistant,  Technical, Mr. Ernest Ossai,  said capacity building was a sure way to making progress in all spheres of life and lauded the institute for the bold step.

He advocated that any nation that has no leadership  training programme for its citizens was doomed and challenged government at all levels and the private sector not to spare any effort in routine training of its people for efficiency and performance.

The founder of the school and a reknowned  world class scholar, Prof.  Austine Nwandulu, said the vision of the academy was to bridge the widening gap in leadership and management in both public and private sectors.

Prof. Nwandulu, a Deltan, said he decided to bring the pan Nigeria and Africa school home as a way of raising leaders for today and tomorrow in all areas, pointing out that before 2025, the state and the region would have produced enough manpower that are seasoned in leadership.

The Coordinator General of the school, Dr. Olusegun Sogbesan, said the training is open to participants in secondary schools and others from all cadres in administration.

He said Delta being the host will be given preference in admission  and urged Deltans to maximize the opportunity.

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Ukah Reaffirms Delta Govt's Resolve To Partner Media Organizations

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Ukah Reaffirms Delta Govt's Resolve To Partner Media Organizations

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 
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Mr. Patrick Ukah! Delta Information boss
Mr. Patrick Ukah! Delta Information boss

Delta State Commissioner for Information,  Mr. Patrick Ukah, has reaffirmed government’s resolve to partner with media organizations in the effective and accurate dissemination of its policies and programmes.

Mr. Ukah disclosed this on Friday (16/09/2016) when the management of the Nigeria Television Authority, NTA, Channel eleven, Asaba, led by the acting General Manager, Ms Ann Ekpo, paid him a courtesy visit in Asaba.

The Information Commissioner said the present administration was doing a lot in making life meaningful for all Deltans, and called for continued cooperation from the management of NTA, Asaba, in bringing the programmes to the knowledge of Deltans.

He said NTA Asaba had exhibited a high level of professionalism in relating with the state government despite the change of government at the federal level, pointing out that the present administration would continue to fulfill its obligations to the station,.

Mr. Ukah explained that the state owned broadcast outfits were already on the Star Times platforms which had given them an edge over their counterparts in other states of the country.

The Information Commissioner disclosed that the state would play host to the  National Council on Information next month and sued  for effective coverage  of the programme.

The acting General Manager, NTA, Asaba, Miss Ekpo, expressed appreciation to the state government for the overwhelming support and encouragement it has given to the station since taking over the reins of governance last year.

She said the Information Commissioner had done everything within his power to make the station excel and pledged the continued partnership with government in the dissemination of its policies and programmes.

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Warri Wolves FC Lose N3.5m Bonus Fund To Daylight Thieves >>>Officials Keep Mute

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Warri Wolves FC Lose N3.5m Bonus Fund To Daylight Thieves >>>Officials Keep Mute

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online)- 
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Players of the Warri Wolves Football Club are in for more trouble, as dare devil robbers has allegedly carted away nearly N3.5 million, meant for the settlement of unpaid winning allowances and up keep of the players.

The suspected armed robbers reportedly attacked officials of the Warri Wolves Football Club on Friday, seizing the N3.5 million out of the bonus meant for the players.

The robbery incident which occurred within Enerhen road area in the heart of the city, saw a three man robbery gang accosting the officials of the team who had gone to withdraw the money at gunpoint on their way to the office after making the withdrawal from one of the new generation banks operating in that area.

According to sources: “After making the withdrawal and making their way to the office, a three-man armed robbery gang, closed in on the vehicle the officials were driving in and collect part of the total sum withdrawn at gun point.

“The robbers who were were said to be dressed in military uniform attacked the vehicle conveying both the team Manager, identified as Gordon, and the teams media officer, Azuka Chiamaka, around Enerhen Motel, along Enerhen Road, Uvwie council area of Delta state and immediately demanded the money from them with a threat for them to comply with their directive if they value their lives.

“The officials had left the bank opposite Urhobo College, and were so close to Peabody Hotels, in Uvwie local government area, when they were attacked. The players lodged in the hotel.”

The General Manager of the club, Moses Etu and the Club Spokesman, Mr. Azuka Chiamaka have however refused to speak on the ugly incident.

A close source to the club disclosed that, “The incident happened last week Friday, but they have been trying to prevent the information from spreading.

Meanwhile, the Delta state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Celestina Kalu (SP), has confirmed the incident and said the police have commenced investigations.

Warri Wolves players
Warri Wolves players

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Job Creation: Prof. Eboh Lists Gains Of STEP, YAGEP, GEEP In Delta Economic Diversification

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Job Creation: Prof. Eboh Lists Gains Of STEP, YAGEP, GEEP In Delta Economic Diversification

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA- 

Prof. Eboh issuing rules of engagement to trainers
Prof. Eboh issuing rules of engagement to trainers

The Delta state Chief Job Creation Officer, Professor Eric Eboh, has charged prospective trainers under the state government’s job creation programmes which includes the Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP), Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (YAGEP) and Graduate Employment Enhancement Programme (GEEP) not to bring the name of the state government to disrepute.

Prof. Eboh, who stated this during a meeting with the trainers in Asaba on Wednesday, September 14, 2016 also issued the rules of engagement to the prospective trainers, ahead of the second phase of the employment and entrepreneural programmes, in line with the policy objectives of the Delta state governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa.

At the meeting, which was largely interactive, the Chief Job Creation Officer, advised trainers to hencefoth desist from colluding with trainees to play truancy in the programme and frowned at such tendencies, which he said could lead to the delisting of culpable trainers and suspension of defaulting trainees from the programme.

Interactive session
Interactive session

Prof. EBOH, while insisting that the selection of the trainers followed a tactical process with a view to establish trainees and see them through their success, a benchmark of the Job Creation Office, listed the criteria for the selection to include functionality, accessibility, capacity and availability.

He however disclosed that a new yardstick for admitting trainees into the programmes is the signing of a bond agreement with the state government by the trainees, to shut out hoodlums with intents to truncate the programme, which he said has gulped a lot of funds from the Governor Okowa led government.

He said the exercise was the sole vision of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to ensure delivery of first rate job creation programme for producing entrepreneurs, managers and leaders from the population of unemployed youths in Delta state.

Cross section of trainers
Cross section of trainers

According to Prof. Eboh, “The successful trainees and beneficiaries from these programmes will help drive the economic diversification of Delta state.”

He therefore said the job creation scheme is underpinned by core values of integrity, transparency, inclusiveness, credibility, partnership and quality service delivery, as contained in the state governor’s charge to the Job Creation Office.

On their part, the trainers lauded the efforts of the Chief Job Creation Officer who is living out the goals and aspirations of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa who they said, is truly committed to the agenda of ‘Prosperity for all Deltans’, tagging it “An Unprecedented Achievement”.

Also members of the Independent Monitoring and Evaluation Groups for STEP and YAGEP, who were selected on the basis of their personal integrity, gave their own assessment.

In their opinion, the programme has been a huge success as the trainers opened their doors wide for the trainees to gain full knowledge of their chosen enterprises.

Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (YAGEP)

YAGEP involves the training and development of youth entrepreneurs in agriculture and agribusiness and equipping participants to establish their own enterprises. This scheme is an integral part of the administration’s agenda to curb youth unemployment and develop the agricultural economy of the state for wealth creation. Alumni of the programme will be branded and promoted as YAGEPreneurs.

Participants are supported to establish and run their own enterprises through the provision of starter packs which, in the case of livestock enterprises, include livestock houses, operating facilities, amenities and inputs. In addition, participants receive buffer stipends during the enterprise gestation period and some working capital to purchase inputs and/or working materials.

Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP)

STEP encompasses the training of youths in different skills/trade and helping them to establish their own enterprises for self-employment and to become employers of labour. Alumni of the programme will be branded and promoted as STEPreneurs.

Under STEP, unemployed youths will undergo a 3-phase training plan comprising life skills and orientation course, vocational skills training and business/entrepreneurship training.

Graduate Employment Enhancement Programme (GEEP)

GEEP encompasses training in Engineering, Information Communication Technology (ICT), Agro-processing and Environmental discipline.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Delta State Enters Fast Lane 

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Delta State Enters Fast Lane 

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Sam Ijeh — 

Gov. Okowa delivering a lecture titled "PUBLIC POLICY & GOVERNANCE IN DELTA STATE: OPPORTUNITIES & CHALLENGES''
Gov. Okowa delivering a lecture titled “PUBLIC POLICY & GOVERNANCE IN DELTA STATE: OPPORTUNITIES & CHALLENGES”

The global economic recession is seriously affecting positive developments, not just in all tiers of governments, but in individual families world wide. 

For Nigeria, the end of the economic slide might not just be in sight as a result of the continuous tumbling of the value of the Naira. 

However, as far as the populace is concerned, what is uppermost in their minds is for the government in power to make basic infrastructure available to them to enable them live better lifes irrespective of the prevailing economic realities. 

Revenue accruing to states and local governments are now nothing to write home about as it can not even be enough to pay the salaries of civil servants not to talk of paying pensions to retirees. 

This has also affected the development of basic infrastructure in various sectors of the economy as solid financial base is very key in embarking on such ventures. 

In Delta State, the effect of the prevailing economic downturn has made the government under the able watch of the governor,  Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, to begin to look for alternative ways of making the state an investors haven. 

A large chunk of the monthly revenue from the Federal Government is used to pay debts accumulated before the coming into power of the present administration. 

Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has equally dropped to an all time low as many corporate bodies have left the state as a result of the activities of militants who have made their operational bases unhabitable for them.

Despite all these, the government of Senator Okowa have been able to construct and commission several roads spread across the three senatorial districts of the state within one year of his being in office.

With some of his wishes for the state still unaccomplished, Senator Okowa has boldly decided to look for alternative ways of wooing investors to boost the economy of the state. 

As part of activities to mark the 25 years anniversary of the state, the government packaged a two-day Economic and Investment Summit at the Event Centre in Asaba, the state capital. 

At the end of the brain-storming sessions that featured the economic egg heads of the nation, lots of investment possibilities that abound in the state were made known to investor within and outside the country. 

Exactly two weeks after this, precisely on Saturday, September 10, 2016, the governor delivered a lecture titled “PUBLIC POLICY & GOVERNANCE IN DELTA STATE: OPPORTUNITIES & CHALLENGES” at the ‘Dialogue with Public Policy Makers’ programme organized by the Lagos Business School and Nigerian Economic Summit Group held at Oriental Hotel, Lagos. 

Senator Okowa, at the event, assured local and international investors  of high return on investment when they tap into the rich business opportunities that abound in the state.

The Governor, accompanied by top government functionaries, said “with what we are doing in partnership with the Federal Government and Community leaders, peace is gradually returning to the troubled Niger Delta region and I can assure our prospective investors that we are going to have a lasting and sustainable peace in the region and that a conducive atmosphere awaits prospective investors. There are a lot of business opportunities for investors”

He noted that the private sector has a lot to offer and is pivotal to the state’s investment drive which seeks to significantly develop the non-oil sectors of the economy such that they will overtake oil and gas as growth drivers.

Governor Okowa disclosed that his administration’s vision is to make Delta State the pacesetter in the country by building an enduring legacy of wealth and prosperity for all through public policy imperatives geared at maximising comparative advantages of the State, developing the non-oil sectors of the economy, creating jobs, and accelerating infrastructural development.

“Delta State has an economy size of $24.6b based on GDP rebase of 2013, making us the fourth largest economy in the country with multiple urban centres, numbering as many as twelve,” he said, adding, “Average poverty rate based on head count is 56%, lower than the national average of 62%; the per capita income is calculated at about N302 or less than USD2.00 per day while unemployment/underemployment rate stood at 27.2 per cent in 2014 according to the National Bureau of  Statistics.”, Senator Okowa said.

“In a bid to address the challenges posed by the drop in statutory allocation, the state government developed the Delta State Medium Term Development Plan (DSMTDP) (2016-2019), a policy document that provides the road map to: Drive rapid infrastructural development; ensure and sustain inclusive economic growth and sustainable development; reduce the worrisome high level of youth unemployment, pervasive poverty; and  woo the private sector to explore and exploit the economic and business opportunities in Delta State., he said, adding with glee that the state’s PPP model is already yielding results with agreements already signed for the Delta Commercial City Project, Umunede Rest Park, Asaba Integrated Power Project, Warri-Effurun Water Scheme, Agro-Industrial Parks and Housing Projects in the state.

Earlier in a welcome remarks, Dr Chris Ogbechie , who represented the Dean, Lagos Business School, said the school in partnership with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group has a proven track record of engagement with Public Sector Policy Makers in proffering solutions to developmental challenges in a growing economy like Nigeria.

Mrs. Sola David-Borha, Vice Chairman, Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), gave the closing remarks and vote of thanks at the occasion anchored by Prof Wale Ajai.

A day before this event, Governor Okowa also attended a Business Dinner in Lagos hosted by renowned economist and eminent Deltan, Prof Pat Utomi, where he said that his administration would support investments in the agricultural and solid minerals sectors in the state.

The governor said as the state moves to reduce its dependence on crude oil, his administration would strengthen the enabling environment for investments to thrive in the agriculture and other sectors.

While commending the international community for their support in attracting investments to the state, he assured that the Asaba Airport upgrade would be ready in December to accommodate bigger aircrafts and also attract more airlines into the state.

In his remark, Prof Pat Utomi said there were lots of untapped potentials in Delta State describing the state as the next business destination and urged the international community to consider the numerous business opportunities in the state.

The business dinner was attended by German Consul General, Mr Ingo Herbert, British Deputy High Commissioner, Ahmed Bashir, South African Consul-General in Lagos, Darkey Ephraim Africa, United States Consular for Commercial Services, UBA Plc Chairman, Mr. Tony Elumelu, Managing Director of UBA Plc, Mr Kennedy Uzoka, MD of RainOil, Mr Gabriel Ogbechie, Mr Henry Okolo and some members of the Delta State Executive Council.

These efforts by the state governor are meant to share business ideas for stronger economic base and launch the state into rapid economic development. 

With all these in place, the state government can now focus on its targets to grow the state economy by at least 5% annually, create 50,000 jobs annually up to 2019, increase house hold incomes by 5% annually, reduce unemployment by 5% annually and reduce overall poverty by 5% annually. 

The state also aims to reduce the population of Deltans living below the poverty line by 5% annually, ensure that at least 30% of Deltans have access to health insurance scheme by 2017, achieve a more significant level of debt sustainability by 2019, establish a strong safety net for the vulnerable by 2019 and significantly raise public confidence level in governance in Delta State in 2019.

*Sam Ijeh is the Media Assistant to the Delta State Commissioner for Information.

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At last, Delta Community, Issele-Mkpitime Gets Pipe Borne Water

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At last, Delta Community, Issele-Mkpitime Gets Pipe Borne Water

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 
index
After several years of being without potable water, a Delta agrarian community, Issele-Mkpitime has finally completed the rehabilitation work, at the abandoned Federal Government backed Millennium Development Goals (MDG) Water Project.

The abandoned project was taken up by the Issele-Mkpitime Federal Union, (IMFU) through the help of Pastor Bolum Chukwudi, a well-meaning Son of Issele-Mkpitime, in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State.

RM. Obi Nwaolise Okwuka l, the Obi of Issele-Mkpitime, officially performed the commissioning of the rehabilitated water project on Wednesday 24th of August, 2016 at the Enuofu Primary School, Issele-Mkpitime.

The eventful, but brief ceremony was witnessed by members of the Obi-in-council of Issele-Mkpitime with the active participation of the Leadership of Issele-Mkpitime Federal Union, IMFU.

Speaking at the occasion, HRM. Obi Nwaolise Okwuka l, expressed his joy over the free flow of pipe born water in Issele-Mkpitime, after a very long time and commended the leadership of IMFU for the timely, efficient and effective utilization of the fund donated by a distinguished Son of the Community, Pastor Bolum Chukwudi, for the purpose it was meant for, stressing that their effort was a classic example of devotion.

The Traditional Ruler therefore, on behalf of the eObi-in-Council of Issele-Mkpitme, appreciated the donor of the fund for his kind gesture and prayed that God would continue to enrich and bless him.

HRM. Obi Okwuka l, also used the opportunity of the occasion, on behalf of the entire People of Issele-Mkpitime, applauded the determined and much cherished efforts of other distinguished and eminent Sons and Daughters of the community who he noted have gone out of their way in ensuring the Human and Infrastructural progress of the town, adding that they should not in any way relent in their services and contributions to the improvement of the People of Issele-Mkpitime.

The Monarch also called on every son and daughter of the Town to come home for the 2016 New Yam Festival and other festivities that are billed to commerce on Wednesday 14th of September, 2016, stressing that it will give him much joy seeing his People joining him as he perform his first traditional New Yam festivities after his official presentation of Staff of Office by the Delta State Government.

In his remark at the occasion, the Secretary General of Issele-Mkpitime Federal Union, IMFU, Mr. Achomuba Chukwudi thanked God for the successful completion of the abandoned water project, while revealing that the IMFU has taken the responsibility of fueling of the newly serviced Power Generating Plant meant for the pumping of the water, for a period of three months.

The Secretary General, therefore, on behalf of the Leadership of the IMFU appealed to Sons and daughters of the Community to donate generously towards the provision of Gas for the continuous pumping of water for the benefit of the People.

Mr. Chukwudi further noted that donation will also be needed form well-meaning individuals from the community for the reticulations of the water supply from the Enuofu Primary School location to other parts of Issele-Mkpitime, adding that such donation should be paid into the Issele-Mkpitime Federal Union’s account or direct contact to the Leadership.

Highpoint of the event was the official opening of the taps to signify the free flow of Pipe born water and the drinking of the water by HRM. Obi Nwaolise Okwuka l, with other members of the Obi-in-Council of Issele-Mkpitime taking their turn to drink from the free flow of clean water from the various taps.

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PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION IN GABON AND THE COMBAT OF TITANS

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PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION IN GABON AND THE COMBAT OF TITANS

Libreville (Blank NEWS Online) –By KOKO BENSON (Gabon Correspondent)– 
gabon map

Mr Jean Ping and Mr Ali Bongo Ondimba
Mr Jean Ping and Mr Ali Bongo Ondimba

August 27TH 2016 presidential Election Day in Gabon raised a lot of tension. The incumbent president Ali Bongo Ondimba contested against some tough challengers who have tried every technicality to make his re-election almost impossible.

Having validated his candidacy against all odds by the electoral commission, Ali Bongo Ondimba began the presidential race with 13 other candidates among whom is Mr Jean Ping, the former president of African Union Commission. After one week of rigorous campaign by candidates and political parties involve in the race, other political heavyweight in Gabon who are also aspirants in the presidential race got rallied to Mr Jean Ping to form a formidable front against the incumbent president. They include Mr Casimir Oye Mba a former prime minister of Gabon and Mr Guy Nzouba Ndama, a former speaker of Gabon National Assembly. Few days before the election two other aspirants namely Leon Paul Ngoulakia and Roland Desire Aba A’ Minko also rallied the group of Mr Jean Ping.

The animosity and xenophobic utterances in the pre-election campaigns of candidates of opposition parties gave lots of suspense to the nation social circle especially among foreigners living in the country. To this end, many foreigners fled the country to avoid degeneration of chaos because they have always been victims of political pandemonium in Gabon. Many Gabonese also fled the cities to the hinterland because of fear.

Ali Bongo Ondimba pledged for peace in the country, and also assured the population of transparency in the election. About 1300 local and international election observers were accredited to monitor the election. They include observers from European Union, African Union and other organizations. At the end, the election was adjudged free and fair with very few irregularities observed.

Few hours after the franchise, suspense hit the nation when a private television station ‘Radio Television Nazareth’ started to roll out election results. With this development Mr Jean Ping made a live broadcast on the television the next day to claim victory of the election based on the available results despite the fact that some results were still pending. The pending results include that of Haut Ogooue which is the stronghold and natal province of the incumbent president.

In reaction to this development, the camp of Ali Bongo Ondimba through the Minister of Communication also made a contradictory press conference to refute the claim of Mr Jean Ping. According to the minister, Ali Bongo Ondimba was leading by figures in the available comparing facts but he charged that only the minister of interior of Gabon was capable to pronounce election results. The reactions from the two camps put the population in anxiety and worry.

Finally, on Tuesday 30th August 2016 at exactly 3.30 pm, the result of the presidential election was announced in a live broadcast in the National Television Station by the minister of interior giving victory to the incumbent president Ali Bongo Ondimba with a score of 49.80( over Mr Jean Ping who polled 48.23(. In other words, Mr Jean Ping was claiming victory of an inconclusive election.

The announcement of the election result provoked some opprobrium in every city of Gabon. Protesters trooped to the streets in their hundreds to vandalize public edifices and looted stores alleged to belong to foreign nationals. The National Assembly Complex among others was set ablaze. The country social and economic activities were paralyzed for days as inhabitants remained indoors because of fear of victimization. About three people were reported dead by the Gabonese authority during the violence with several others seriously wounded. Many were pronounced to have been arrested by the police.

France, the U.S and other international organizations have called to appease the situation in Gabon because Gabon is a peaceful country known in the sub region. War is alien to Gabon. The situation is left for Gabon justice to decide now that the duos have taken their grievances to court to seek redress.

*Koko Benson is Blank NEWS Online Correspondent In Gabon.

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9/11 Earthquake Hits Nigeria: Earth Tremor Rattles Kaduna, Third Time In 2016 * "It’s warning from Allah, the most high" –Residents

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9/11 Earthquake Hits Nigeria: Earth Tremor Rattles Kaduna, Third Time In 2016 * "It’s warning from Allah, the most high" –Residents

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 
quake
Residents of Sambang Dagi in Jaba Local Government of Kaduna State witnessed another earth tremor in the early hours of Monday, September 12, 2016, barely 24-hours after the first tremor was reported at Nok village about 20km away from Sambang, on Sunday, September 11, 2016.

The first incident, which occurred at about 1p.m on Sunday, shook the community and created some panic among the people while the second vibration occurred around 4a.m Monday, leaving shocked residents scampering for safety.

No casualty figure has been reported, just as the Kaduna state government said it had notified the geological and emergency agencies of the incident.

On Sunday, September 11, 2016, a series of earth tremors and loud sounds were reported in Kwoi, headquarters of Jaba local government area in the Southern Kaduna region in Kaduna State, northwestern Nigeria.

A source, Joshua Byang, said the the earth in the area shook six times starting at 10:32 a.m. on Sunday.

There have been anxiety in the town, which is close to Nok village which houses several artifacts associated with the famous Nok civilization.

Recall that a similar earth tremor had hit Kaduna in July, this year. It woke sleeping residents at about 10:43pm.

The recent tremors have provided a rude awakening of sorts. One of those whose houses were affected by the quake who simply identified himself as Sani described the incident as traumatic. He said the heavy sound that accompanied the quake was heard in all the neighbouring settlements.

“Actually, I have never witnessed something like that. When the quake started, my entire house was shaking. I thought that the world had come to an end. It is indeed something that one has to keep reflecting on because it is only Allah that is capable of shaking the earth like that,” Sani said.

Sani added: “Another thing that made many of us to vacate our houses was that the quake reoccurred after about seven days. On the two occasions, the quake occurred in the night.”

Sarkin Ikara, Alhaji Aliyu Suleiman, confirmed that state government officials had visited the site.

On associating the quake to sins committed in Ikara, he agreed that Allah uses such incidents to serve as warning.

A crack on the rock, caused by the tremor
A crack on the rock, caused by the tremor

Earthquake in Kaduna This Year July –

Having manifested largely on a massive rock and affecting nearby houses, some witnesses described it as having been a thunderous noise which sounded like a bomb blast. It woke sleeping residents at about 10:43pm.

The tremor caused cracks on three different spots on the large rock, located at Hayin Magina of the area. Aside that, many houses were affected, with visible cracks on their walls and other areas.

It was observed that some houses in the area were deserted, as the occupants were said to have left out of fear. The remaining inhabitants, also, are visibly shaken and are still trembling from the experience.

Malam Mustapha Musa is a resident of Hayin Magina, whose carpentry workshop was closed in wake of the quake. … It’s nothing but a warning from Allah, the most high. …

Mustapha added: “Allah is tired with what is happening in Ikara. Apart from the rape of innocent boys, there are many criminal activities taking place here. Most of the perpetrators are known, but it is like they are above the law.”

A road affected b the quake
A road affected b the quake

Governor El-Rufai sympathizes with affected residents

Earlier, on Sunday, September 11, 2016, the Kaduna State government had in a press statement, urged residents of the affected communities to remain calm.

The government said in a statement signed by Samuel Aruwan, Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to Governor Nasir El-Rufai, that it had made a formal report to the appropriate authorities to investigate the development.

The statement said Mr. El-Rufai, had notified the geological and emergency agencies of the incident.

“The governor sympathises with the people in the Kwoi area over the reported earth tremor,” the statement said.

“He has directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to mobilise to the area and comfort the citizens.

“The National Geological Agency has also been notified, and has been invited to investigate the tremor in the Kwoi area and provide appropriate guidance.

“The Kaduna State Government is receiving updates from the area and relevant government agencies have been directed to take steps to comfort the residents and to assuage their unease as they come to terms with an unusual event.

“The Kaduna State Government wishes to appeal for calm, and urges everyone not to spread unverified information, or create panic,” the statement said.

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FRSC Flags-Off Sensitization On Use Of Speed Limit Device In Delta

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FRSC Flags-Off Sensitization On Use Of Speed Limit Device In Delta

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA– 
FRSC_3Ahead of the October 1 implementation date for compulsory use of speed limit devices on vehicles plying the Nigerian roads, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has flagged off its sensitization on speed limiter and safe use of tyres in Delta state.

FRSC Corps Marshal, Mr Boboye Oyeyemi, who was represented by the Zonal Commanding Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal (ACM), Mr. Kayode Fanola during the well attended event at Benfiko Park in Asaba on Thursday, September 08, 2016 said the commission was poised to reduce the rate of lives and property usually claimed by road crashes as a result of speeding.

While insisting that the October 1 deadline for the enforcement of the speed limiting device on vehicles across the country remained, he explained that the sale of the device was not open to all marketers so that FRSC, Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the Nigerian Customs and other agencies could regulate and monitor the process properly.

ACM Fanola appealed to stakeholders and and fleet operators to adhere to the new directive, as that enforcement of the policy would start with commercial vehicles and fleet operators because they carried more passengers, as well as articulated trucks and lorries.

Speaking on the safe use of tyres, he urged motorists to always check the manufacturing date to avoid buying expired tyres. “The expiration date is usually indicated on the sidewalls of the tyre. It comes in four digits; the first two digits shows the week the tyre was manufactured while the last two represent the year of manufacture”, he said.

Also, ACM Shehu Zaki who disclosed that the FRSC has been on ground to meet its statutory responsibilities through effective public enlightenment before enforcement, said the installation of the speed limiter on vehicles would help reduce road accidents.

He said that the Federal Government and FRSC are determined to ensure road crash control, hence speed is responsible for an estimated 53 percent of total accidents in Nigeria, resulting in about 1.2 million recorded deaths annually.

In his enlightenment speech on the importance of the speed limit device, Engr. Efosa Osawe of the FRSC who attributed over speeding to major fatalities on Nigerian roads, explained that the device which regulates vehicular speed and helps FRSC officials to check in case of accidents also reduces fuel consumption and pollution of environment.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Delta state Sector Commander of the FRSC, Mr. Rindom Kumven, said the FRSC, since its establishment, has properly propagated programmes aimed at enlightening members of the public on road safety measures.

He commended the Chairman of Benvico Park, Chief Morris Agbogidi and other stakeholders, including representatives from the Delta State Traffic Management Agency (DESTMA), Ministry of Transport, National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), among others, for collaborating with the FRSC on the implementation of the speed limit device.

During the interactive session, participants who commended the FRSC for the enlightenment campaign, promised to inform their members on the importance of the speed limiting device, but called on the federal government to improve on the current condition of Nigerian road which is also responsible for vehicular road crashes across the country

From left>>Delta Sector Commander, Rindom Kumven; Assistant Corps Marshal (ACM), Mr. Kayode Fanola; ACM Shehu Zaki and Engr. Efosa Osawe during the sensitization program.
From left>>Delta Sector Commander, Rindom Kumven; Assistant Corps Marshal (ACM), Mr. Kayode Fanola; ACM Shehu Zaki and Engr. Efosa Osawe during the sensitization program.

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Breaking News: INEC Bows To Pressure, Shifts Edo Governorship Poll To Sept. 28 ***Reactions Trail Postponement

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Breaking News: INEC Bows To Pressure, Shifts Edo Governorship Poll To Sept. 28 ***Reactions Trail Postponement

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: 

Professor Mahmood Yakubu, INEC Chairman
Professor Mahmood Yakubu, INEC Chairman

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has finally bowed to pressure from key stakeholders’ call for urgent shift of the governorship polls in Edo state, as it announced late Thursday that the date of the Edo governorship election has been rescheduled to hold on September, 28, 2016, due to security reasons.

After a series of consultation and initial show of defiance, the Mahmood Yakubu-led INEC finally buckled.

But the main opposition party, PDP has described the postponement as illegal, unconstitutional and a breach of the peoples’ trust in the Commission and the security agencies.

The electoral body made the announcement at exactly 8:00pm, during a press conference at the commission’s office in Benin City, Edo State. The decision to postpone the election was reached at a security meeting also held in Benin, the Edo State capital.

Solomon Soyebi, INEC national Commissioner in-charge of voter education and publicity, who made the disclosure said the election would now hold on September 28.

The national commissioner revealed that the Chairman of the commission, Prof. Mahmoud Yakubuand other national officials of the commission had agreed on the poll shift and attributed the postponement to alleged security threat as reported by security agencies.

Also, Nick Dazang, spokesman for the commission, confirmed that, “We have now decided to shift the election forward for another two weeks.”

The electoral commission had earlier on Thursday rejected the call for postponement by the Nigeria Police Force ( NPF) and the Department of State Services (DSS). The commission had said it would not be “teleguided”, and argued that suspending the polls would be costly after reaching at least 97 per cent readiness level.

Shortly after making that announcement, the commission backtracked and said it agreed to postpone the elections based on the security concerns cited by the police and the SSS.

Recall that the Nigeria Police Force ( NPF) and the Department of State Services (DSS), had appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission to postpone the Edo governorship election scheduled for Saturday, September 10, 2016, citing security threat.

The Force Spokesman, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Don Awunah, who made the joint call on behalf of the Police and the DSS in Abuja, had claimed that credible intelligence available to the agencies indicated plans by insurgent and extremist elements to attack vulnerable communities and soft targets during the election.

Awunah said that Edo was among the states being earmarked for the planned attacks by the extremists between Sept. 12 and 13respectively, adding tthat”while election was important, security agencies cannot allow the peace of the country to be disrupted. ”

Godwin Obaseki, the APC candidate, is slugging it out with Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the PDP in the race to replace incumbent Adams Oshiomhole whose two-term tenure expires this November.

Meanwhile, incumbent Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomole told newsmakers that “it is very painful that the election was postponed because it also meant the postponement of the final burial ceremony of PDP in Edo State, which according to him, will not exceed the new date.

The main opposition party, PDP, and its leaders have also condemned the postponement and described it as “a coup against the people of Edo State,” explaining that changing the date “was a less than ingenious attempt to ‘buy time’ for the governing All Progressives Congress, APC”.

“It is shameful and indeed a major constitutional breach for the security agencies to act in concert with the APC to truncate an Election that had been planned for months,” the party said in a statement signed by Dayo Adeyeye, its interim spokesperson.

“Nigerians were not deceived by the obvious concoctions of the security agencies whose performances during elections have been less than average since the advent of the Buhari Administration.

“The postponement of the Election by INEC is illegal, unconstitutional and a breach of the peoples’ trust in the Commission and the security agencies.

“It is a coup against the people of Edo State in particular and Nigerians in general. Since APC assumed power, virtually all elections conducted by INEC have either been inconclusive or truncated.”

In his reaction, the Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose described the postponement as “beginning of the end for democracy in Nigeria.”

“It is obvious that the All Progressives Congress (APC) feared that it can’t win the election and is ready to employ whatever crude means to subvert the wish of the people,” he said.

“How can you postpone an election less than 48 hours to the scheduled date? What manner of security concern could prevent an election in just one state when elections were held in Northeast States that are confronted by Boko Haram insurgents?” the Ekiti governor said.

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INEC Voids Call For Edo Governorship Election Shift, Insists Polls Will Hold As Scheduled

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INEC Voids Call For Edo Governorship Election Shift, Insists Polls Will Hold As Scheduled

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: 

Professor Mahmood Yakubu, INEC Chairman
Professor Mahmood Yakubu, INEC Chairman

Nigeria’s Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), is poised to go ahead with the Edo governorship election scheduled to hold on Saturday, September 10, 2016 despite calls and agitations by major stakeholders for its suspension.

The electoral body had on Thursday dispelled rumours of postponement of the governorship election in Edo state, which has hitherto heated the nation’s political landscape due to the divergent positions held by the contending political parties and their candidates, All Progressives Congress (APC), Godwin Obaseki and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Osagie Ize-Iyamu respectively.

Recall that the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Police Force had called for the postponement of the governorship election in Edo State, citing security issues.

Mr Solomon Soyebi, INEC National Commissioner in-charge of Voter Education and Publicity, said during a press conference held at INEC’s office in Benin posited that “the governorship election will go ahead on Saturday, Sept. 10 as scheduled.’’

Soyebi, who said INEC as the body statutorily set up to conduct elections in the country, would not take orders from any institution with regard to the performance of its constitutional duties.

“We have therefore weighed all the consequences of a postponement in the election and have resolved to go ahead with the conduct of the election on Saturday as scheduled,’’ he said.

In a similar development, the Independent National Electoral Commission has said that it will not postpone Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination scheduled to hold on the same day.

The National Chairman of INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this during an earlier stakeholders’ meeting held in Benin, the state capital, on Wednesday.

A total of 1,742 candidates are expected to sit Mathematics 1 and 2 papers on September 10, the same date of the governorship poll.

This development led to a protest by some of the affected candidates and parents on Monday.

There had also been calls for the postponement of the poll in order to allow the candidates exercise their right to vote.

But the national chairman, who spoke through the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Sam Olumekun, said that the electoral umpire had given adequate notification of the election date, prior to the date fixed for the examination by WAEC.

He explained, “On the issue of the WAEC examination, as my chairman would say, ‘INEC is the weeping boy’. Even when you see people that are doing things that are wrong, you would revert to INEC.

“It is important to draw your attention to the fact that INEC gave notice of this election on March 2, 2016. There was no registration for the WAEC examination by candidates as of that time. I stand to be corrected.”

The INEC boss noted that the commission had held a discussion with the examination body and security agencies on the issue, where it was agreed that the examination should be moved to Ondo and Delta states, as holding it simultaneously with the poll may create security challenges.

Yakubu said, “The issue is, basically, security. So, the security agencies advised WAEC accordingly that giving room for people to move around may pose some challenges because criminals could cash in on the situation.

“Permit me to remind you also that there are about 1.9 million registered voters in Edo State, whose interest also should be taken care of. At the end of that meeting, we agreed that the exam be shifted outside Edo State to places that are nearby.

“Indeed, WAEC had even concluded arrangements to do this. It suggested Ore, Agbor and, I think, one other place. Yes, there could be some inconvenience for the candidates to travel outside Edo State. But, of course, it is not too much pain to bear, if you have the interest of your state at heart.

“I do not think we need to suspend an election because WAEC is going to conduct the General Certificate Examinations. It is not SSCE but GCE for those who did not do well in the past exams,” the INEC chairman added.”

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UKAH ADMONISHES OKPANAM COMMUNITY TO PRESERVE CULTURAL HERITAGE

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UKAH ADMONISHES OKPANAM COMMUNITY TO PRESERVE CULTURAL HERITAGE

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Patrick Ukah
Patrick Ukah

The Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, has advocated the need for all individuals, especially stakeholders, to contribute their quota in preserving their rich cultural heritages describing it as a critical identity of a people in the society.

Mr. Ukah, who stated this in Okpanam during the ‘nwambele’ festival as part of activities to mark this year’s new yam festival, said that it was imperative for the people to always observe their culture, adding that the festival was unique in all ramifications.

The Information Commissioner, however, lauded the people of Okpanam for their peaceful disposition at all times, particularly during and after the new yam festival, saying that it had been a period to display the harmonious co-existence among the people and residents of the area.

For his part, the Asagba of Okpanam, Obi Adimabua Ozili from Umumale in Obodogwu quarters where ‘nwambele’ festival originated from, said that the festival was being celebrated annually during the new yam festival.

The Asagba advised youths in the community to shun acts that were antithetical to the peace and hospitality that Okpanam community had been known for several decades.

In their separate remarks, a cross session of Okpanam indigenes, including,  Mr. Fred Okolie, Mr. Okonkwo Chinedu Charles, Comrade Lanka Patrick Okolie, Ogbueshi Augustine Nwadozie,  an elder stateman in Ogbodogba quarters,  Mr. Patrick Okonkwo AKA Pato, Mr. Azuka  Nwamuya AKA Ideli, Augustine Igbekea AKA Maraja,  Mesike Olise and Comrade Tony Ukah AKA Kalala, among others, said that the festival had come to stay, adding that the festival had continued to engender happiness  and peaceful co-existence among the people of Okpanam.

While pledging to remain committed to showcasing their culture when the need arose, the people said that the new yam festival was always a time to show appreciation to God for the bumper harvest.

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IBORI TO UK: "YOU CAN’T CLAIM IGNORANCE OF DFID’S SPONSORSHIP OF MY TRIAL, CONVICTION"

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IBORI TO UK: "YOU CAN’T CLAIM IGNORANCE OF DFID’S SPONSORSHIP OF MY TRIAL, CONVICTION"

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Chief James Onanefe Ibori
Chief James Onanefe Ibori

Former governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, has described as false and shocking the claim by the British government that it was unaware of alleged funding of his investigation and conviction by the Department for International Development (DfID).

It will be recalled that while on an official trip to Nigeria last week, UK’s Minister for International Development, Mr. James Wharton, had told the media that his country was not aware of what the Nigerian media had written about DfID’s role in Ibori’s trial.

However, Ibori’s media aide, Mr. Tony Eluemunor, in a statement released in Abuja, expressed shock and indignation over the minister’s claim of ignorance over the role played by DfID in the former governor’s ordeal.

Eluemunor said the minister could not have been ignorant of such details since his attention had been drawn to the allegations several times, the last being as recent as August 21, 2016.

The Media aide said one of such information was contained in documents already at the disposal of the minister and the DfID. According to the media aide to the former governor, some of the documents are contained in separate letters written by Bert de Boer against conviction in the V Mobile Case.

He said: “Mr. Lambertus de Boer wrote in the e-mail ‘Dear Mr. Wharton, Re: 1. Department for International Development’s Role in UK Prosecution of Ibori Cases and V-Mobile Case : James Ibori, Bhadresh Gohil, Lambertus de Boer & Daniel McCann (& others) and Police Corruption/Prosecutorial Misconduct (collectively known as: ‘DfIDgate’) “The world has long known that the bedrock of the British judicial system has always been its openness, transparency and that a defendant is innocent until proven guilty. It is excellent for all those concerned that the British government, via a senior minister in the Department for International Development, has chosen to make it clear to the world that corruption in an investigative and prosecution team will not be tolerated.

“What surprises the world is that it has taken the British government so long to make this statement.’’ Eluemunor quoted Bert de Boer as writing to Mr. Wharton, saying: “I write to apprise you as an elected official and/or as someone responsible for the proper functioning and/or oversight of (a) the UK’s humanitarian aid agency – The Department for International Development (DfID) and/or b) the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) in relation to the ongoing developments relating to the controversial DfID funding and pioneering MPS’s UK prosecution of James Ibori, the former Governor of Delta State, Nigeria and various linked case(s), including mine, known as the V Mobile case.”

“It is important for you to note that while I do not oppose the fight on corruption, in emerging markets or anywhere for that matter, the issue with my case and the linked Ibori cases is that: The MPS Proceeds of Corruption Unit (‘POCU’) investigations were flawed— proper disclosure was not provided as expected by every defendant in the British legal system.”

“DfID was and remains completely conflicted, holding roles on steering committees, paymasters/investors with Ibori through CDC etc.— DfID’s wide ranging role as funder of the Ibori cases and V Mobile case was withheld~ DfID’s and their subsidiary, CDC Group plc’s investments with James Ibori were withheld/hidden and never investigated~ MPS POCU corruption now confirmed by the CPS to the Appeal Court~ and serious prosecutorial misconduct misleading both the Crown and Appeal Courts.” The letter continued: “Over the past six months, much about the police corruption and prosecution misconduct has emerged, particularly through the recently aborted Bhadresh Gohil Perversion of Justice (“PoJ”) prosecution in January 2016.

°Courtesy: Vanguard

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Nigeria Broke: FG Plans To Borrow N120 Bn From Local Debt Market

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Nigeria Broke: FG Plans To Borrow N120 Bn From Local Debt Market

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Kemi Adeosun, Finance Minister
Kemi Adeosun, Finance Minister

Nigeria’s Debt Management Office has disclosed that the Federal Government is planning to borrow N120bn ($387m) in local-currency denominated bonds at an auction on September 14.

The DMO said on Tuesday it would raise N40bn each from debt maturing in 2021, 2026 and 2036, using the Dutch auction system.

All the bonds are re-openings of previously issued debt.

The Federal Government has estimated it will borrow around N900bn from the local debt market this year to fund a budget deficit projected at N2.2tn.

The Central Bank of Nigeria has said it is planning to borrow N1.77bn via Treasury Bills in the last three months of the year.

In its fourth quarter Treasury bill issue programme released on Monday, the CBN said it would raise about N815.37bn, comprising 91 days, 182 days and 364 days debt instruments.

In addition to the above, the central bank was also planning to raise about N952.05bn as rollover in the three categories of the instruments.

The nation’s overnight naira interbank lending rate eased to 16 per cent on Friday, down from 20 per cent recorded the previous Friday.

This followed improved naira cash liquidity after the disbursal of July budgetary allocations to Federal Government agencies.

The Federal Government distributes revenues from crude exports and taxes among the three tiers of government every month.

About N250bn ($751m) belonging to states and local government from July budget hit the banking system last week, and provided liquidity.

Total bank surplus cash with the CBN stood at N118bn on Friday, better than the N62bn recorded last Friday.

At the CBN’s Monetary Policy Committee meeting in July, the central bank raised its benchmark interest rate (Monetary Policy Rate) to 14 per cent in a bid to tighten liquidity.

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Edo Guber: DSS, Police Want INEC To Postpone Poll ***As PDP Asks Court To Disqualify APC's Obaseki

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Edo Guber: DSS, Police Want INEC To Postpone Poll ***As PDP Asks Court To Disqualify APC's Obaseki

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 
breaking news
Two major security agencies have asked that the Edo State governorship election set for Saturday, September 10, 2016 be postponed.

The Nigeria Police Force and the State Security Service gave this advice to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), though it remains unclear if INEC will heed the advice of the security agencies.

The election is expected to be strongly fought between the candidate of the incumbent governing All Progressives Congress (APC), Godwin Obaseki and the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Osagie Ize-Iyamu.

Meanwhile, the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party said it has filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Benin seeking to disqualify the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Godwin Obaseki, from contesting the September 10 governorship election.

The party is asking the court for a declaration that Obaseki’s statement that he graduated from the University of Ibadan with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Classical Studies in 1976, made under oath in the Independent National Election Commission form CF001, Part B, Paragraph C and dated July 11, 2016, was false.

The defendants in the suit with reference number FHC/B/CO/120/16, dated September 1, 2016, are Obaseki and INEC.

The Edo State Chairman of the PDP, Chief Dan Orbih, who disclosed this on Tuesday, explained that the party’s assessment of the affidavit showed that the APC candidate allegedly lied on oath by providing false information.

Orbih argued that Obaseki’s claim that he graduated from the University of Ibadan in 1976, as deposed in a sworn affidavit in June, 2016, was false because he did not have the requisite number of passes to study Classical Studies.

No date has been fixed for hearing on the suit.

However, the Publicity Secretary of the Edo APC, Godwin Erhahon, said that while the PDP had the right to contest the eligibility of its (APC’s) candidate, the opposition party could not be the judge in the matter.

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Buhari Replies US Congressman: "Marino Is A Propagandist. I Don't Need His Goading To Do What Is Right"

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Buhari Replies US Congressman: "Marino Is A Propagandist. I Don't Need His Goading To Do What Is Right"

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Nigeria's President, Muhammadu Buhari
Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari

Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari has finally responded to the published letter from US Congressman, Tom Marino, to the US Secretary of State, John Kerry, which called for security sanctions against the country, and alleging that the former military ruler has jettisoned democratic order for military styled dictatorship.

The Federal Government through the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, while describing the letter which went virile on the social media as a propagandist tool and sadly out of tune with reality, said the US Congressman, Tom Marino only acted on the strength of some imaginary infraction by the Buhari administration.

A statement issued in Abuja on Sunday by Segun Adeyemi, special adviser to the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said Congressman Marino was poorly informed about the issues he commented on, wondering why he did not take the pains to get first hand information from the US Embassy in Nigeria or any other credible source before engaging in what is nothing but a ‘propaganda of his own imagination’.

The statement aid by asking the US to refrain from selling warplanes and other military equipment to Nigeria based on a faulty premise, the Congressman has demonstrated a poor understanding of global security issues.

“Insecurity anywhere is insecurity everywhere. Had Congressman Marino understood this, he would not have made the kind of call he made concerning the US security assistance to Nigeria. The Boko Haram insurgency that Nigeria has decisively dealt with under President Muhammadu Buhari is not just a Nigerian problem but a regional and international crisis.”

Mohammed said Marino definitely did not have Nigeria in mind when he wrote that the US should withhold security assistance to Nigeria until President Muhammadu Buhari “demonstrates a commitment to inclusive government and the most basic tenets of democracy: freedom to assemble and freedom of speech”.

“An Administration that operates purely on the basis of respect for the rule of law and a strict adherence to constitutional order is not one to deny the citizens of their constitutionally-guaranteed rights. This Administration therefore does not need the goading of Congressman Marino or anyone for that matter to do what is right.

“Concerning running an inclusive government, had Congressman Marino done his home work before dispatching his letter, he would have realized that no part of the country is left out in the distribution of political appointments, for example, or in the appointment of Ministers, which was done in accordance with the Constitution that mandates that the President must appoint at least one minister from each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

“Had the Congressman sought information from credible sources before engaging in a flight of fancy, he would have been presented with a comprehensive information on the appointment of CEOs for Federal Government’s parastatals, agencies and commissions that shows that the appointments were almost evenly matched along the line of the six geo-political zones in the country: With the North West having 51, North Central 46, North East 45, South East 41, South West 45 and South South 45,’’ he said. ‘’The Congressman may wish to note that each geo-political zone comprises 6 states, with the exception of North West (7) and South East (5).”

The Minister described Marino’s description of the Administration’s anti-corruption efforts as “selective” as a tired argument that clearly shows that the US lawmaker must have appended his signature to someone’s concocted line.

“That line was invented by those seeking to cause an unnecessary distraction from the Administration’s anti-corruption efforts, and it has been roundly rejected. Congressman Marino’s decision to exhume the dead postulation without an iota of proof is a reflection of whose side he has taken in the ongoing efforts to rid Nigeria of corrupt elements. Needless to say that the anti-corruption battle will continue unhindered, irrespective of whose ox is gored. And in this fight, only the guilty needs be afraid.”

Mohammed said Nigeria is delighted that Kerry, to whom the Congressman addressed his letter, is more knowledgeable, better briefed and definitely more hands on concerning Nigerian issues.

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US Congressman Criticises Buhari's Draconian Rule In Nigeria ***Seeks Sanctions

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US Congressman Criticises Buhari's Draconian Rule In Nigeria ***Seeks Sanctions

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Tom Marino
Tom Marino

A member of the United States Congress, Tom Marino, has condemned the draconian and dictatorship style of Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari and his All Progressive Congress (APC) led government.

Tom Marino, a Republican from Pennsylvania who assumed office on January 3, 2011, is a member of the Committees on the Judiciary, Homeland Security and Foreign Affairs, and the Chairman, Sub-committee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law.

Marino, in a two-page letter dated September 1, 2016 to Secretary of State, John Kerry, is seeking US government sanctions against Nigeria on some sensitive security deals, including proper democratization and an all inclusive governance, among others.

In a two-page, six-paragraph letter dated September 1, 2016 and addressed to Kerry, Marino, a Republican from Pennsylvania who assumed office on January 3, 2011, said there were a number of warning signs emerging in the Buhari administration that signal “the man who once led Nigeria as a military dictator might be sliding towards former autocratic tendencies”.

Tom Marino’s letter to John Kerry reads:

“Dear Secretary Kerry, I am encouraged by the personal interest you have taken in aiding Nigeria and its administration as it takes on endemic corruption, multiple insurgent movements, and a faltering economy. However, I believe there are a number of warning signs emerging in the Buhari administration that signal “the man who once led Nigeria as a military dictator might be sliding towards former autocratic tendencies.”

“I would urge the U.S. to withhold its security assistance to the nation until President Buhari demonstrates a commitment to inclusive government and the most basic tenets of democracy: freedom to assemble and freedom of speech. A logical start towards this commitment is for the Nigerian government to hold accountable those members of the Nigerian Police Force and the Nigerian Military complicit in extra-judicial killings and war crimes”.

“Human rights groups like Amnesty International have widely documented torture, inhumane treatment, and extra-judicial killings of defenseless Nigerians since President Buhari took office.”

“in the last six months, Nigeria’s military has unlawfully killed at least 350 people and allowed more than 168 people, including babies and children, to die in military detention.”

“The Secretary to the Government of Kaduna State even admitted to burying 347 of those killed in a mass grave. And while President Buhari promised swift condemnation, his words rang empty. Instead of swift reforms, Buhari chose to reinstate Major General Ahmadu Mohammed, who Amnesty International revealed was in charge of the Nigerian military unit that executed more than 640 unarmed, former detainees.

“Also, in separate incidents concerning the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the Nigerian Army has killed at least 36 – the real number is likely higher – people since December 2015 in an attempt to silence opposition and quell attempts by the group to gather publicly.”

“Of President Buhari’s 122 appointees, 77 are from the north and control many of the key ministries and positions of power. Distrust is already high in Nigeria and favouring Northerners for key appointments has only antagonized the issue. These appointments are also primarily Muslim in the north and Christian in the south, adding a religious aspect to long-held regional biases.

“Of additional concern is President Buhari’s selective anti-corruption drive, which has focused almost exclusively on members of the opposition party, over-looking corruption amongst some of Buhari’s closest advisors. Politicizing his anti-corruption efforts has only reinforced hostility among southerners.

“This is a logical first step in making a demonstrable, sustained commitment to inclusive democracy, with distributed power in Nigeria. Until President Buhari establishes a track record of working towards inclusion, we ask the State Department to refrain from selling warplanes and other military equipment to the country.

“The State Department should urge President Buhari to form a government that represents the diversity of its citizens and allows dissenting voices to be heard. Democracy can thrive only if people are free to assemble, to express their beliefs, and voice their concerns.”

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

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My Son, Omabuwa Was Killed — Chief Etoromi

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My Son, Omabuwa Was Killed — Chief Etoromi

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Late Maxwell Chinedu Etoromi
Late Maxwell Chinedu Etoromi

The  husband of Stella Oduah, Lieutenant Colonel (Chief) Satchie Ayomike Etoromi says he suspect foul play in the death of his son, Mr Maxwell Chinedu Toritseju Etoromi.

He said that  controversies surrounding his death will be investigated.

Another son of Chief Etoromi from Stella, Mr Tuoyo Etoromi Oduah, had released a damning statement to his father.

He had in  the statement,  denounced his father saying that he will rather be a bastard than be called his  son.

He had accused his father of being an attention seeker in the course of his brother’s death.

But the retired Army officer fired back,imploring his son to retrace his steps and not allow himself to be used by his mother.

Chief Etoromi in his statement to his son wrote thus; “Eyituoyo my son, they have misled you. When Omabuwa came home last year, Stella, your mother told me to call you to come home.

She gave me your phone number. She said you were in the United States of America and don’t answer calls. All calls to that your phone were not answered. I believe Omabuwa was killed, that is why Stella refused to tell me.”

“The stories about how Stella took you away need not be told now. The grief that my son, Omabuwa who was  contacted by your junior sister, Valentina Omawumi Etoromi and who came home is dead is too much a pain for me now. Stella should bring our kids home. I want to bury Omabuwa who is now late, and you my lovely son, Eyituoyo  should come home. I married Stella traditionally and under Ibo marriage law, every child she has before my dowry is returned belongs to me.
It is Stella and not yourself  who  should tell me  that my son, Omabuwa, your senior brother is dead”, he said.

Chief Etoromi also wrote that;”You said you offered  flight tickets and accommodation to attend the burial and funeral of my son. Burial where? Do you have flight infrastructures at Akili Ozizor now?  Is it Ibo culture for a woman whose dowry was  paid to take her children’s corpse to her home town? That is abomination. The controversies surrounding Omabuwa’s death will be investigated”.

“My son, do not allow yourself to be dragged into what you do not have knowledge. Could it be that Omabuwa was killed because he came home? This is not the time to talk. May the Almighty God grant us His Mercies, show us light that will make us know the truth. Amen”.

He pointed out that;”Eyituoyo, I am not Mr Satchie Etoromi. I was commissioned into the Nigerian Army and attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before Stella came into my life. I was also conferred with a Chieftaincy title when she was with me. It is a pity that you were not told my status in life. You will know  I am not a nonentity as you were made to believe”

He added that;”My marriage with Stella was not short. She moved out of our home 19 years ago and so her telling you she divorced me 30 years ago is another big lie. How old are you? So why did she tell you all these lies? I am an incorruptible and disciplined officer and gentleman and you shall be proud that my blood flows in your veins when the truth becomes knowledge. I was a polygamous man  before Stella married me.  I married many wives and it is a custom of our people. His Royal Highness, Igwe Oduah 1 of blessed memory had many wives too, so what did I do wrong? When Stella took you and everything away, in humility I prayed for the Almighty God’s mercy. Must she not do the needful and bring you to me? The Almighty God shall judge. I am your father. Bring Omabuwa home and come with him. I am not threatening you nor your mother. . May the  Almighty God bless you my son. All will be well.

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

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Economic Recession: APC Calls PDP "Thief Sympathising With Victim"

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Economic Recession: APC Calls PDP "Thief Sympathising With Victim"

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

“It is very painful in a situation where the armed robber is now the one sympathising with the victim.” –Lai Mohammed.

Lai Mohammed
Lai Mohammed

Nigeria’s boisterous Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has taken a rude swipe at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for daring to call for the resignation of President Muhammadu Buhari over the nation’s failing economy.

The one time All Progressive Congreess (APC) propagandist described the statement made by the PDP as “preposterous”.

Speaking at a forum on Friday in Abuja, Mohammed said: “It is very painful in a situation where the armed robber is now the one sympathising with the victim.

“I read in the dailies that the PDP said that the President must resign because of the economy.

“While we are not going to indulge in blame game, I think we should also be honest enough to admit that we will not have been where we are today if they had done what they ought to do.

“For the party to ask the President to resign is just a big joke.”

The minister noted: “Agreed that Nigeria is not the only country hit by the recession and crash in price of crude, but other countries made savings.

“Saudi Arabia today has about $600 billion in reserve and this is by planning and saving for the future, which the past administration failed to do during surplus.

“This is not about blaming other administration, but we believe that one should be honest when criticising.”

Mohammed then assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would do everything possible to bring the country out of the economic situation.

Recall that the PDP new Media Director, Deji Adeyanju, had in a statement in Abuja called for the resignation of President Buhari, who was elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, “for destroying” the economy.

Adeyanju was reacting to the data released by the National Bureau of Statistics issued on Wednesday, which stated that Nigeria was in recession.

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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

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