Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Goalkeepers:
Daniel Akpeyi (Chippa FC, South Africa), Emmanuel Daniel (Enugu Rangers)

Defenders:
Kingsley Madu (AS Trencin, Slovakia), William Troost-Ekong (Haugesund FC, Norway), Ndifreke Udo (Abia Warriors), Saturday Erimuya (Kayseri Erciyespor, Turkey), Abdullahi Shehu (CF Uniao, Portugal), Muenfuh Sincere (Rhapsody FC), Stanley Amuzie (Olhanense FC, Portugal)

Midfielders:
John Mikel Obi (Chelsea, England), Okechukwu Azubuike (Yeni Malatyaspor, Turkey), Usman Muhammed (CF Uniao, Portugal), Oghenekaro Etebo (CD Feirense FC, Portugal), Sodiq Saliu (Seraing FC, Belgium)

Forwards:
Aminu Umar (Osmalispor, Turkey), Imoh Ezekiel (Al Arabi, Qatar), Sadiq Umar (AS Roma, Italy), Junior Ajayi (CS Sfaxien, Tunisia).

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

The Executive Assistant, Directorate of Orientation, Delta State, Barrister Eugene Azuka Uzum has described the senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa-led governmet as a focused, process-driven and people-oriented government irrevocably committed to listening to the voice of Deltans to positively advance their course.

Barrister Eugene Uzum made this known today, friday, July 22, 2016 during the rounding up ceremony of the 3-day seminal /Workshop organised by the Directorate, for public relation officers attached to MDAs and PEO’s in the 25 LGAs in the state at the Directorate’s secretariat, Asaba .

Speaking at the interactive /question and answer session at the seminar with the theme, ” ENHANCING INFORMATION MANAGEMENT THROUGH ORIENTATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY’, the Executive Assistant said the place of adequate information dissemination in nation building can neither be over emphasised nor oversaid. According to him, it brings information about government policies and programmes to the doorstep of the people especially the grassroot.

Fielding questions from information officers at the seminar / Workshop, Barrister Eugene Uzum said information and government are inseparable which help to synergise government policies/programmes and feedback from Deltans, especially now that the state have a listening governor poised to meeting the yearnings of the people.

While answering a question thrown at him on the need for professionalism in journalism to checkmate the excesses of social media users, as well as the need to enact a law to regulate it, Barrister Eugene Uzum said professionalism is an indispensable and paramount key in journalism but that enacting a law to regulate the Social media is almost impossible for now. He further stated that one of the reasons why regulation is difficult is because there’s no technology to decode individuals who use pseudo names (avarta ) to write rubbish and upload dirty pictures and videos.

In his words, putting up a regulation has posed a problem even to those who created the social media, hence it will be difficult to enforce and for that singular reason should be managed in a manner that will distinguish professionalism from quacks in reportage and posts.

Describing the social media as a draconia, mountain and a bride said in spite of the excesses of some persons on the cyberspace, it also has an advantage of enabling the people speak out on issues bothering on the way they want to be governed.

On why the bill to regulate the reckless use of the social media hanging before the National Assembly didn’t see the light of the day, the Executive Assistant said though there are regulations to some extent but because of political patronage and mischief attached to it, the bill couldn’t fly.

Barrister Eugene Uzum who implored everyone to be patient and to support senator Okowa’s S.M.A.R.T agenda concluded by saying that information officers owe the state a duty to promote the government and make constructive criticisms and suggestions necessary to move the state forward as Dr. Okowa is a listening governor who is focused, process-driven and people-oriented.

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Local newspaper publishers in Bayelsa State, under the auspices of Bayelsa Federated Newspapers Publishers Association (BFNPA), have given the state government and security agencies in the state a 48-hour ultimatum to produce Chief Jones Abiri, publisher of Weekly Source Newspaper and Crack Reporters, an online portal, who was allegedly arrested by officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Thursday in Yenagoa and later framed as head of a militant group.

Abiri was said to have been arrested by security operatives of DSS in the early hours of Thursday, July 21, 2016 and subsequently whisked away from his office in Yenegoa, the Bayelsa State capital with countless accusation of spreading coup rumour of a planned overthrow of President Muhammadu Buhari by the military and threat to launch missile attacks against select targets in Abuja including the Presidential Villa, the police headquarters, defence headquarters, NNPC Towers, CBN headquarters, and the National Assembly.

Just as this publication could not independently verify these claims, the Bayelsa Federated Newspapers Publishers Association (BFNPA), expressed shock over the arrest of their member, whom they described as “credible journalist and publisher”, adding that since Abiri’s abduction by nine persons, who claimed to be security operatives, nothing had been heard of the publisher.

They stated that Abiri was not a militant and therefore gave the state government and security agencies in the state a 48-hour ultimatum to produce Abiri, who is the publisher of Weekly Source Newspaper.

Chairman of the association, Mr. EasterDay Ayibatari, said the ultimatum was to enable the government and the security operatives tell them where Abiri was being kept.

Ayibatiri said, “This is because the people who ‘abducted’ the man said they were from the Department of State Services. Thus, it behoves the security agency to identify and locate where the man is being detained. Let me also make it clear that the man was on medications; he was not feeling well.”

Ayibatari, who lamented that journalists in the state were no longer safe, said armed security operatives stormed Abiri’s office in three cars with number plates: SAG 391AA, PBT 480 AA and Lagos 193 DN.

Meanwhile, the Department of State Services in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Mr. Tony Opuiyo, on Saturday in Abuja has confirmed that Abiri was arrested on Thursday by DSS operatives.

The DSS however alleged that the Newspaper and Online publisher was the mastermind of recent rumours of a military coup and further claiming that he was also known as Gen. Akotebe Darikoro, leader of the Joint Revolutionary Council, an arm of the Joint Niger Delta Liberation Force.

Part of the statement read, “Darikoro (Abiri), who operates under the nom-de-guerre ‘General-Kill and Bury’, has confessed and owned up to some criminal activities committed by the JNDLF.

“These included, vandalism of the Nigeria Agip Oil Company trunk line in Ogboinbiri, Southern Ijaw LGA and bombing of an oil pipeline belonging to Shell Development Company at Brass creek on 8 July, 2016, all in Bayelsa State.

“Darikoro is also the mastermind of the recently circulated hoax of planned overthrow of President Muhammadu Buhari, by the military.”

It will be recalled that last month, the Nigerian Army, through its acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman denied the allegation that there was a plot by the Military to overthrow President Mohammadu Buhari, vowing to investigating the claim and also deal with peddlers of the claim or rumour.

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Embattled Nigeria’s Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki, has denied reports alleging that he had defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as he insisted he was still loyal to the All Progressives Congress (APC), having contributed to the party’s growth and development.

There were reports on some media that the Senate president met with former president, Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja on Wednesday, July 20 during a closed door meeting where he declared his readiness to dump the APC and re-join the PDP.

While reacting to the report of his alleged defection, Senator Bukola Saraki, in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Bamikole Omishore, denied the rumour and insisted Saraki was committed to the APC.

Read the statement below:

“The attention of the Senate President’s Media Team has been drawn to a false publication that is making the rounds on social media that Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki has defected from the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC). This fabrication is entirely untrue as the Senate President stands committed to the APC; a party that he helped midwife and worked for its victory in the 2015 elections.

“In his official capacity as Senate President and chairman, National Assembly, he attended the end of session event of the PDP caucus yesterday evening and spent only 30 minutes before leaving the members to continue with the event.

“The Senate President would like to assure every Nigerian that he is committed to the APC-led government and appreciates the confidence reposed in him and the APC during the 2015 General Elections.”

Recall that Saraki served as governor of Kwara state on the platform of the PDP before defecting to the APC ahead of the 2015 general election.

He won the senate seat and eventually unanimously emerged as the Senate president in a shrewd move that has resulted in criticism from some APC members.

There has been speculation that Saraki might leave the APC following series of charges brought against him particularly the alleged forgery of the Senate standing rule.

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

The burial arrangements for late Super Eagles Chief Coach, Stephen Keshi, have been made public.
A member of the burial committee, who is also the Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, revealed that the ceremonies will hold between Thursday, July 28, and Sunday, July 31, 2016.
According to Mr. Ukah, who spoke in Asaba yesterday, (Wednesday, July 20,2016), on Thursday, July 28, 2016, there will be a requiem mass at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 30 Airport Road, Benin City, from 9:00 am, followed by lying in state at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, by 11:00am, while a novelty match by All Stars and Tributes will also take place at the same venue.
The same day, his remains will depart Benin City for Asaba, Delta State from 1:15pm. On arrival, there will be lying in state ceremony at Stephen Keshi Stadium, Indoor Hall, Asaba, from 3:15pm, while a service of songs/vigil mass will hold at St John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Illah, Delta State by 6:00pm same day.
On Friday, July 29, 2016 the body leaves Asaba for Illah by 7am, and there will be a brief stopover at the Ogbelani Palace for traditional rites as a Palace Chief by 8:00am, followed by lying in state at his family home, Ukpologwu Quarters, Illah, from 8:30am.
The requiem mass will take place at St John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Illah, by 10:00am after which interment will hold at his family compound, Ukpologwu Quarters, Illah, from 12:30pm. Entertainment of guests will be at Omorka Primary School Playground by 12:30pm.
The burial ceremonies will be rounded up on Sunday, July 31, 2016 with a thanksgiving mass at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Illah, by 10:00am.

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

A pan-Delta grassroots group, the Delta Progressives Mandate has urged The Peoples Democratic Party led government in Delta state to come to reality with the fact that it has failed abysmally in the primary task of providing good governance and democracy dividends to Deltans.

In a release signed by the group’s spokesman, Honorable Sagacious Karo Louis, in a reaction to an online publication where Chief Chris Agbobu, a member of the Delta State PDP, uttered some spurious and uncomplimentary remarks about High Chief Hyacinth Enuha, a All Progressives Congress(APC) leader, who had earlier on counseled the Delta State Government on the need for good governance, the body observed that there could be no more auspicious time than now for the PDP led government to face the realities of governance, by listening to sacrosanct observations from patriotic Deltans who have felt betrayed by the PDP led government.

Continuing, Hon Loius reminded Chief Agbobu that a million invectives would never vitiate Chief Enuha’ submissions prominent amongst which are that local government employees as well as teachers in the Delta State are being owed salaries for nine and three months respectively, coupled the dearth of infrastructural development across the entire state.

He further submitted that discerning Deltans acknowledge Chief Enuha as a committed and forthright elder statesman whose advocacy for good and accountable governance would never be silenced in the face of uncouth utterances by relevance – seeking individuals, who could not boast tangible impact on the their constituents while in power as ministers of the Republic of Nigeria, adding that ” if Chief Agbobu delights in riling patriotic critics, he should as a matter of honour reveal to Deltans and in deed, the world one project he attracted to Delta State , Aniocha South and Ubulu-Unor his home town as first, Minister of Agriculture and thereafter Defence during Obasanjo regime”.

While responding to Chief Agbobu’s assertions of non performance by the APC led federal government, he enthused that “it is a known fact that a refuse heap accumulated for sixteen years during which the PDP bestrode the Nigeria political landscape cannot be cleansed in one year, while on the contrary the PDP that had been in power for the past 16 years in Delta has not found its bearing ”

According to Hon Loius, Delta State which at present is in a comatose cannot afford to remain in opposition to the centre(Federal) ,so it is certain that PDP would surely be sent packing from the government house through free, fair and credible election come 2019.

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

President Muhammadu Buhari, has directed the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, to reopen investigation into the unresolved murder of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige ‘Cicero’, and ex-Deputy National Chairman, South-South of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Aminosari Dokubo, and fish out the perpetrators.

It could be recalled that the killing of the two personalities caused national outrage, with Nigerians calling on the government of former President Olusegun Obasanjo to fish out the killers who have still not been found.

Chief Bola Ige was shot dead in his bedroom in Bodija, Ibadan, home at about 9pm on December 23, 2001, after he arrived Ibadan from Lagos at about 8.30pm. His security details were said to have sought permission from the former Attorney General to go and eat before the incident occurred. The gunmen, allegedly shot their target in the chest.

Following the death of the late Bola Ige, several unsubstantiated allegations were made against several politicians and interest groups, with some even saying the ‘Cicero’, as he was fondly called, was killed to halt the rise in his political profile, while others said it had to do with his impending probe of the corruption in the power sector of the nation’s economy.

On the part of Chief Aminosari Dokubo, the late PDP Deputy National Chairman was said to be returning to his base from Abuja after a meeting when he was waylaid by suspected assassins on entering Delta State.

He was killed near Asaba on October 22, 2004. Dokubo’s assassination at the time was alleged to have been caused by certain disagreements with the powers that be in his political party, prior to the general elections.

In a bid to unearth the perpetrators of these unresolved murders, the Acting Inspector General of Police has however instituted a high powered investigation team, headed by an Assistant Inspector General of Police, to crack the case.

Reacting to the development, Architect Muyiwa Ige, son of late Chief Bola Ige, said last night that it would be glorious, if the family could get justice 16 years after. Muyiwa, who could not hide his happiness, said President Buhari did not disappoint him, saying the matter was now in the right direction. He said: “I knew right from the advent of the administration of President Buhari that the matter would be resurrected.

The President is in the right direction. To God be the glory. It’s a new day; we are happy, we will get justice after 16 years. “We are happy that all those who murdered our father, including the star witness, will be brought to justice. It’s good news.”

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

To facilitate development in the Niger Delta region, South-South and South East lawmakers have urged the Federal Government to review the ownership structure of oil wells in the country.

“The people of the Niger Delta region should possess at least 65 percent of the oil wells contrary to the present ownership structure where less than 10 percent of the oil blocks belong to our people”

They noted that the region’s development is being hindered by the present payment mode of derivative oil funds.

“There is an urgent need for the Federal Government of Nigeria to put in place adequate machinery that would ensure direct payment of derivative oil funds into the hands of Niger Delta Benefiting communities” the principal officers and members of the Houses of Assembly in the region said.

Rising from the first parliamentary session of the South-South and South-East Houses of Assembly in Owerri, Imo State weekend, the lawmakers condemned the criminal and nefarious activities of the so called herdsmen.

“Legislators of the Houses of Assembly in the South-South and South East can no longer watch helplessly as our region drifts aimlessly while our people walk the razor edge under the strain of impoverishment, environmental degradation, insecurity and uncertainty on the one hand and the destruction of oil/gas installations and the attendant consequences including their impact on the ecosystem and the economy on the other hand”

They urged the youth to shun confrontation, violence and militancy in pressing for the redress of the zone.

“They must embrace dialogue and diplomacy and channel their grievances through various constituted platforms”

The joint session of legislators from the South -East and South –South geo-political zones not only condemned the evil acts of kidnapping, hostage taking and bursting of oil pipelines but stressed that militants from the zones should be constituted into an officially recognized brigade for the protection of oil installations

“They should among other things be charged with the responsibility to halt the rise of other offensive militant groups who may from time to time threaten to spring up”

The lawmakers advised the Presidency to direct the security agencies in the country to brace up and be alive to their constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property.

“They must save the people of the geo-political zones from the hands of the marauding herdsmen. Governments of the South-East and South-South geo-political zones should set up a high powered joint judicial panel of inquiry to unravel the facts and circumstances surrounding the incessant attacks by the herdsmen and determine the best way to prevent its recurrence in the zones. They should also establish special task force drawn from the various security agencies and neighborhood watch in each local government to checkmate the excesses of herdsmen and prosecute them”

The legislators, who called for more proactive measures to address the activities of herdsmen, restated their commitments to pass bills restricting cattle rearing, prohibiting grazing of cattle from one location to another through farmlands thereby causing damages to farm lands, health hazards and obstruction of vehicular and human traffic.

The lawmakers while attributing the defective and harsh socio-economic environment, lack of employment opportunities, lack of empowerment for the youth, environmental degradation, lack of infrastructure, general underdevelopment and inadequate benefit of the resources from the region, despite being the major source of the economic resources of the nation to the causes of upsurge in militancy activities in the region, rejected the proposed bill to establish and control grazing routes and reserves before the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly.

They urged the Federal Government to revisit the performance of the amnesty programme, the United Nations Environment Programme Report and the Hydrocarbon Pollution Restoration Project with a view to strengthening grey areas.

They also urged the National Assembly to ensure the accelerated passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill

“The Federal Government should enter into peaceful dialogue with the critical stakeholders in the South-South and South- East in resolving the dispute and operate within the rule of engagement without incurring collateral damage”

Speakers and Deputy Speakers of Abia, Akwa-Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Enugu and Imo states were in attendance.

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

THE Niger Delta Indigenous Movement for Radical Change (NDIMRC) has passed confidence vote on the Group General Manager of National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS),Mr Dafe Sejebor over alleged corruption and marginalisation of contractors from the region and tasked security operatives “to fish out those after the life of the NAPIMS boss”.

One Terry who claimed to be writing on behalf of the Urhobo Youth Council Worldwide had accused the NAPIMS boss of fraudulent practice of obtaining money from Contractors.

The said Terry had also accused the NAPIMS boss in his write-up of being behind the demobilisation of the Vessel of one Chief Henry Ojogho from Mobil, claiming the development was causing a lot of problems in Delta State.

He had warned the NAPIMS boss to tell Mobil to remobilised the Vessel of the said Chief Henry Ojogho and had added that the marginalisation of Deltans in NAPIMS by Mr Dafe Sejebor will no longer be tolerated.

But in a press statement signed by its President, Nelly Emma; Secretary, John Sailor and Public Relations Officer, Stanley Mukoro, the group exnorated the NAPIMS boss of allegations against him, saying that some elements being used by disgruntled Contractors were just out to tarnish the good image of the NAPIMS boss.

According to the group; “Our findings have shown that Mr Dafe Sejebor, NAPIMS boss has nothing to do with the demobilisation of the Vessel of Chief Henry Ojogho by Mobil. If he has issues with Mobil, he should find a way of resolving such issues with Mobil and leave an innocent man out of it”.

The group stated that; “As a credible oil monitoring group, our investigation has revealed that the said Terry is a loner and do not have the backing of the Urhobo Youth Council Worldwide and he should stop soiling the image of the Urhobo Youth Council. Our checks have shown too that he once claimed to be fighting the cause of the Ijaw people and today it is the turn of the Urhobo people. 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.”

On the allegation that Mr. Dafe was marginalising Deltans in NAPIMS, the group said that;”.This is a pure lie and should be ignored. Deltans and the entire people of the Niger Delta Region are having their fair share in NAPIMS and even our local contractors are being carried along on merit. Without NAPIMS, it would have been very difficult for Nigerian local contractors to be awarded contracts. These allegations against the hard-working NAPIMS boss are unacceptable to us and the entire people of the oil-rich Niger Delta region.”

While warning those being used to give the NAPIMS boss, Mr Dafe a bad name and mislead the public, the group tasked Security Operatives to fish out such elements and bring them to book, saying their threat messages to the NAPIMS boss should be investigated properly.

” We know those that have been hired to rubbish the good reputation of the Group General Manager of NAPIMS. They are not representing the people they are claiming to be fighting for; they are on selfish mission and this is why we are calling on security operatives to smoke such bad elements out and deal with them appropriately “, group stated.

The group said:” These elements who have been sending threat messages to the NAPIMS boss and those they are working for should be investigated by security operatives and dealt with, otherwise this will weaken the morale of the likes of the NAPIMS boss who are doing a great job for our people by promoting the Nigerian Local Content. People are always going against things that are not to their favour. These people are selfish, greedy and out to blackmail the hard-working NAPIMS boss, Mr Dafe”.

“Let it be known that the NAPIMS boss alone cannot take the decision of contract award, due process must be followed and it is very wrong and unacceptable for a government worker to be threatened with text messages because their pay master failed to secure a particular contract. Let the DSS do their investigation and fish out those that have been sending threat messages to the NAPIMS boss,” the group wrote.

The group added “It is on this note that we want to pass confidence vote on the NAPIMS boss, Mr Dafe Sejebor for his good works. The NAPIMS boss should be commended for the promotion of the Nigerian Local Content; for giving Deltans and the entire people of the Niger Delta Region a sense of belonging and not condemnation, this is not acceptable and the general public should ignore all the false allegations against the NAPIMS boss. Our Security Operatives must also beef up security around the NAPIMS boss and should treat the threat messages with the desired seriousness.”

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Delta state council has been told to encourage professionalism among practicing female journalists in the state.

The Delta state Commissioner for Information, Mr Patrick Ukah who gave the charge while receiving the state executive of NAWOJ in his office in Asaba, said a lot was expected of them as opinion moulders, particularly in ensuring balanced reportage of the activities of the state Government.

He reminded them that Delta state would be celebrating her 25years of creation in August, and urged them to propagate a new Delta with focus and renewed determination to positively impact on the lives of Deltans.

The information commissioner used the occasion to appeal to private institutions to support the Delta at 25 program, adding that there would be an investment and economic forum to tell the world how they could do business with Delta state.

The chairman of the Delta state NAWOJ, Comrade Patricia Gbemudu said the visit was to familiarise the commissioner with members of the executive, the activities of NAWOJ in the state and other pertinent details.

She said the visit was an extension of the partnership between NAWOJ and the Ministry of Information, in recognition of its role and contributions in actualising the prosperity for all agenda of the state government.

Highlight of the visit was the presentation of souvenirs to the state NAWOJ chairman by the Information Commissioner.

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Delta State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Hon. Austin Chikezie has advised farmers Co-operative Societies in the State against paying money to any individual or financial institutions for participating/registration in the “CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme.”

The Commissioner gave the advice during a meeting in his office with the Committee on “CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP)” that the CBN (ABP) is being executed by Central Bank of Nigeria in collaboration with Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the Participating Financial Institution (PFI) is Bank of Agriculture (BOA).

He stated that these three institutions will select Input Providers and Anchor Off-Takers, while assuring the Committee that the MoU will be signed next week.

The Agric Commissioner further advised all farmers/Co-operative Societies in the State that any information regarding the programme should be directed to the Office of the Commissioner, or his representative, Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources Asaba, the Central Bank of Nigeria Branch Manager or the Development Finance Office (DFO) Asaba or the Manager Bank of Agriculture, (BOA) Asaba, stressing that we are not liable to any other business hat is done outside these three institutions.

Hon. Chikezie emphasised that the ABP is not connected to DESOPADEC in concept and conduct, saying that any consumer commodity society that pays money into any accounts or caught selling forms will be sanctioned accordingly.

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –BY FIDELIS EGUGBO 

CELEBRATION of one year anniversary of Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has opened a new vista for what Deltans should expect within the next three years or did I hear you say, “seven years?”

The Governor has been known for pulling surprises but, nobody expected him to do what he did during the celebration of his one year in office.

Before May 29, 2016, colleagues in the pen-pushing profession were skeptical if the Governor would address a press conference and when such was confirmed that certainly, the Governor who believes in saying things as they are, would address the press to x-ray his achievements within one year and also, unfold the programmes to celebrate his one year in office, another question came up; will the press conference be for a selected few?

That press conference which took place at the Press Centre, Government House, Asaba on May 23, 2016, has come and gone but, I had to bring up the issue here because, the press conference which ordinarily was supposed to be for only accredited journalists was open to almost everybody who had one or two questions to ask the Governor. It was an interesting press briefing which saw the Governor answering more than twenty questions on different topics including those that concerned the nation and the international community. As an individual, it was a memorable press briefing as the Governor made it obvious that he was not just running an all-inclusive government where everybody is a stakeholder but, a transparent, accountable administration that is accessible to all.

It is no longer news that Governor Okowa came into office when the finances of the federal government had tumbled to the extent that a state which was receiving more than N20 billion from the federation account with a wage bill of more than N7 billion on staff salary alone was battling to get about N3 billion. So, many Deltans including event watchers were expecting the Governor to say, his greatest achievement within one year in office was the payment of salaries as at when due. Yes! As I am writing this piece, many civil servants in other states are yet to receive their salaries while some staff of some state governments have down-tooled due to same issue.

So, ordinarily, payment of salaries at this point in time, was supposed to be a great achievement by a state government but, alas! Governor Okowa embarked on commissioning of projects and backed it with inspection of projects which were under construction. The surprising element of the commissioning and inspection of the projects was that the Governor unlike previous administrations that would have abandoned projects which were initiated by their predecessors, weighed the benefits of such projects to Deltans and embarked on completing such projects while initiating new ones.

Such action by the Governor is unimaginable and a closer look at what is happening in the country today, will show that what the Governor did doused tension, proved critics wrong and consolidated on the gains of previous administrations to prove that government is a continuum.

On May 24, 2016, the Governor, accompanied by political aides and followers stormed Delta Central Senatorial District to commission the Ejinyere/Orodje Streets in Orerokpe. He also inspected the YAGEP (Youth Agriculture Enterpreneurial Programme) at Ekpan-Ovu in Ethiope East local government area of the state that same day. That was the commencement of what the Commissioner for Information in the state, Mr Patrick Ukah described as “project commissioning spree.” The activities to mark the celebration of one year in office ended Friday, June 24, 2016 with the commissioning of Abavo General Hospital and Palace Road, Owa-Oyibu in Ika South and Ika North-East local government areas of the state.

Significantly, at every place he visited, the communities expressed joy that what they thought were impossible were done by the Governor and of course, it is on verifiable record that there is no federal constituency that Governor Okowa did not commission or inspected at least one project.

But, if you think what the Governor was doing was without a lot of sacrifices, then, you are joking. Democracy provided that any government can be assessed by anybody, so, the common man on the streets must feel the impact of that who is in power for such a person to win his or her confidence. If the Governor had succeeded in paying only salaries without commensurate execution of projects, even the civil servants would not be happy with him.

When you are struggling to deliver on electoral promises and you see someone trying to thwart your efforts, naturally, you will be angry. As such, the Governor did not hide his anger when he discovered at Uduophori, Patani Local Government Area of the state that some civil servants could still connive with contractors to execute shoddy jobs despite efforts to meet with the yearnings of the people.

Visibly angry Governor Okowa emphatically said, that with the lean resources accruing to the state, his administration could not afford to execute one project twice and the projects executed by his administration must stand the test of time.

“The Engineer that supervised the job is not supposed to be an employee of the state government, we cannot afford to have failed projects within one year of execution, it is good that he (the Engineer) has been queried but I will follow the case up as appropriate sanctions must be applied. You (the contractor handling the project) have embarrassed me with this type of shoddy job, we cannot push you to go beyond your pace, the first thing we want is quality job as my name matters a lot to me. We don’t have to manage anything, the name of the company is at stake too, the financial situation is tough, so, we cannot afford to do one road twice,” the Governor said at the occasion.

In other climes, the Governor would not have personally inspected the projects and seen not just the pace of work done but, the quality of the projects been executed and he was always ready to ask the supervisory Ministries if their staff was on ground to ensure that what was been done was in accordance with what was in the terms of engagement.

Governor Okowa also surprised many persons and endeared himself to the people of Ndokwa nation during the inspection of road construction at Beneku, Ndokwa East local government area of Delta State. The Governor walked into the Pontoon on Ase Creek from Kwale to Beneku. He trekked some distance and showed his statesmanship during his return journey. The Pontoon was filled beyond capacity and the crowd surged towards the exit eager to leave it. Of course, most of the people were not used to river and some of them have never entered a Pontoon or a boat, so, that anxiety caused the Pontoon to tilt and the managers of the Pontoon asked the ‘passengers’ to shift back to enable the Pontoon had a balance to stabilize it for landing, this elicited a little commotion for obvious reasons but, throughout the period, the Governor was calm and was even telling others to be relaxed as the Pontoon would safely berth. At the end, everything was without mishap to the glory of God.

The people in most of the communities visited by the Governor said they were having an elected Governor visiting their communities for the first time since the birth of democracy and this was clear indication that the Governor was on one-on-one with the electorates who were happy to have such a grassroots man as their Governor.

During the visits, like the proverbial Oliver Twist, while the communities thanked the Governor for what he had done, they still made a lot of requests showing that despite the sixteen years of democracy, a lot is still expected by the people. But, can Governor Okowa in four or eight years do what could not be achieved in more than sixteen years of Nigeria’s democracy or twenty-five years of the existence of the state?

Times shall really tell, but, with the commissioning and inspection of projects, critics of the Governor cannot accuse him of incompetence and of course, there is no fear about opposition political parties because, the state remains the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stronghold. Congratulations Deltans, congratulations Democracy.

(Courtesy: The Pointer Newspaper)

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

CHAIRMAN of caretaker committee of Tipper and Quarry Employers of Nigeria (TQEU) Comrade Dumebi Eluaka has debunked claims by an Asaba based legal practitioner, Barr. Larry Olisa that he is not a registered member of the union.

Speaking with journalists in Asaba, Comrade Eluaka said the report credited to the legal practitioner and published in The Pointer Newspaper was done in bad faith and designed to mislead the public.

According to him, “it is surprising to us that a legal practitioner is dabbling into a union affair; what has Barr. Olisa got to do with activities of Tipper and Quarry Union because, he is not our member and he did not speak as someone who was contracted to represent us.”

“As a lawyer, he ought to have made it clear that he was representing our members or he is a member of our union,” Comrade Eluaka said, adding, “it is unfortunate that some persons can know more about the constitution and membership of other unions and trying to cause crisis when non exists whereas, they could not say categorically if they are representing themselves or others.”

Comrade Dumebi added, “the national executive committee set up a caretaker committee and made me its chairman as one of our members, Comrade Kanayo Enenmo dragged the union to court in an issue the national executive committee and the Trade Union Council in the state had settled and as at today, we are working to see that elections are held for the union to make progress.”

Asked if he is a registered member of the union, Comrade Eluaka said, “of course, I am a registered member, I have sand dredgers, I have Tippers and at present, I have seventy eight persons who are working for me as members of Tipper and Quarry union, so, what else do you think should qualify me as member of the Union? I pay my dues and as an organized union, is the lawyer saying the national executive committee does not know members of the union?”

“My interest is for us to have a peaceful and progressive union and as at today, we have our people working in twenty local government areas of Delta State and Barr. Olisa should fulfill the requirements if he wants to join our union,” Comrade Eluaka stated, reiterating, “we are making progress in Delta State as employers of labour and we are begging government to give us three acres of land for us to build Tipper’s Park, we are also soliciting soft loans for our members to boost their investments because we deal with heavy duty equipments like tractors, pail loaders, tippers, among others.”

He decried Barr. Olisa’s attempt to drag other unions into the affairs of Tippers and Quarry union saying, “as a union, we have built peace within ourselves and we cannot work in isolation, so, we collaborate with other trade unions to ensure industrial harmony and cohesion in our activities.”

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 
Delta State governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, have been described as a leader who see opportunities where others see challenges.

The state Commissioner of Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, stated this today (July 8, 2016) in a statement on behalf of the government and people of the state on the occasion of the 57th birthday celebration of the governor.

Mr. Ukah stated that Governor Okowa is a leader who empower others and inspire them to achieve their potentials.

The Information Commissioner said that with hope in a vision that defines tomorrow based on empowering the people, Governor Okowa is on track to build a Delta State of Prosperity for All.

He prayed that God will give the governor good health and the wisdom to continue to pilot the affairs of the state in his avowed determination to deliver the dividends of democracy to all Deltans.

Mr. Ukah appealed to all Deltans to be patient as the Delta State government under the able leadership of Senator Okowa is poised to ensure that developmental projects are executed in all parts of the state.

The Information Commissioner reminded the people that the several projects inspected/commissioned by the governor in different parts of the state as part of activities marking his one year in office was a clear testimony that Dr. Okowa will deliver his campaign promises.

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

THE Niger Delta Indigenous Movement For Radical Change, (NDIMRC) has knocked President Muhammadu Buhari for  the removal of Dr Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu as the Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation ( NNPC) and replacing him with  the  former Group Executive Director, Exploration and Production   of  the  Corporation, Dr Maikanti  Kacalla Baru.

After months of pressure mounted by Northern interests led by Dr. Maikanti Kacalla Baru, a former Group Executive Director, Exploration and Production of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to be made the Group Managing Director (GMD) of the state-run oil firm, President  Buhari finally succumbed  on  Monday, July 4,2016  when he removed Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu from oil-rich Delta State as the Corporation’s executive head.

But in a press statement by its President, Nelly Emma; Secretary, John Sailor and Public Relations Officer (PRO), Stanley Mukoro, the group kicked against the sudden removal of Dr Kachikwu as the GMD of NNPC by the President, describing it as unfair treatment not only to the hard-working technocrat, but to the entire people of the neglected oil rich Niger Delta Region.

The group said,  “The whole world is our witness that we raised the alarm in April this year that Dr Maikanti Baru was desperate to be the GMD of NNPC and was mounting pressure on the President to sack Kachikwu and now we have been vindicated”.

The oil monitoring group said; “We are sad over the unfair treatment of Dr Kachikwu by the President. The former GMD was committed to the total reforms of NNPC of which Dr Baru was against. By the sacking of the hard-working Dr Kachikwu and replacing him with the desperate Dr Baru, it is now clear to us as a group and the whole world that the President is not serious about his promise to turn NNPC around for the better. The appointment of Dr Baru by the President is not in the best interest of the nation, but to satisfy the interest of the North. The removal of Dr Kachikwu at a most sensitive time, has raised concerns among stakeholders in the region that the administration of President Buhari has remained adamantly unresponsive to the accusations by the militants that some of the local oil firms exploiting the hydrocarbon resources in the Niger Delta Region  and polluting the environment belong to non-indigenes of the oil producing communities.”

It added that;” Last April, our findings revealed that the Adviser On Gas to the  GMD of NNPC, Dr Maikanti Baru was  behind a devilish rumour that Dr Kachikwu was sacked. He has been very desperate to become the GMD of NNPC and we warned President  Buhari to be wary of him,but the President never listened. It is unfortunate that the people of the oil-rich Niger Delta Region are being treated this way. Dr Kachikwu brought alot of changes into NNPC and the Cabal in the Oil and Gas Industry never liked him and rather than encouraging him to do more for the sector, the President decided to do otherwise. The President has once again made a big blunder with the appointment of Dr Baru who never wanted the reforms of NNPC  embarked upon by Dr Kachikwu.”

The group while accusing  the new GMD of NNPC, Dr Baru as one of those who destroyed NNPC that Dr Kachikwu  worked round the clock to bring back to life, said that; “Without apology, we want to say that Dr Baru  do not mean well for the Corporation. He is a spoiler and  has been too desperate to become the GMD of the NNPC. Dr Baru has never liked the reforms in NNPC and such a desperate man should not have been allowed to head NNPC as he will ruin the place that Dr Kachikwu  worked so hard to fix up. Dr Baru is not the best man for the job”.

“President Buhari should  have  fired Dr Baru as suggested by us last April. The new GMD of NNPC has been  working with oil Cabal to frustrate the efforts of Dr Kachikwu, especially in his bid to make NNPC a better place. Dr Kachikwu  ended the  fuel scarcity caused by Dr Baru and his co-travellers and rather than giving him a pat on the back for a job well done, he was removed by the President and replaced with desperate Dr Baru who has nothing to offer,” the group said.

Dr Baru’s appointment,the group held, has raised questions as to whether he can lead negotiations to calm restive militants in the Niger Delta, who have renewed hostilities in the oil-rich region in a wave of attacks on oil industry installations.

The former NNPC boss, Dr Kachikwu, who for eight months had doubled as the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and will now serve as the Chairman of the NNPC board, had led a Federal Government team last month to negotiate a peace deal with the militants.

The group said; “Only last month, the hard-working Dr Kachikwu against threat to his life and members of his family took a risky trip to the troubled Niger Delta Region to see things for himself at the controversial Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Gbaramatu Kingdom, in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State and his visit brought hope to the hopeless people of the region. His trip to the area also helped to reduce the spate of attacks on oil facilities by rampaging militants.”

It added that; “The President should have honoured Dr Kachikwu for his hardwork. We must say that we are disappointed with the choice the President made for the NNPC. Can Dr Baru take a trip to the Niger Delta Region? As the new GMD of NNPC, can he plead with rampaging militants in the Niger Delta Region to give peace a chance and they will listen to him? The choice of Dr Baru as the man at the helm of affairs in NNPC by the President is not the best”.

” As an oil monitoring group, we are highly disappointed that the President  decided to at this crucial time leave the affairs of the NNPC in the hands of  Dr Baru who helped to destroy the Corporation.  We are not impressed that President Buhari  in his bid to satisfy Northern Nigeria with more juicy positions at the detriment of the oil producing people of the Niger Delta Region left  the affairs of NNPC in the hands of a desperate Dr Baru who will only sit in the comfort of his office in Abuja without thinking about the pains the oil producing people of the Niger Delta Region are passing through,” the group stated.

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

“I will be getting married in a few weeks; albeit without the privilege of having my beloved father walk me down the aisle – the dream of every daughter.”

Tarila Okah who would be getting married in few weeks, has written an open letter to President Buhari, and expressed sadness over not having the opportunity of her father, whom she described as a ‘prisoner of conscience’ walking her down the aisle.

In an open letter to President Muhammadu Buhari, Tarila Okah, the pretty daughter of Charles Okah – alleged mastermind of the 2010 Independence Day bombings, has alleged that her father is being frustrated by the judiciary, and appealed to the federal government to release him, saying that there has been no compelling evidence against Okah over the last six years that he has spent at the Kuje Prison in Abuja.

She argued that having spent six years in detention, her father is entitled to bail under the constitution, lamenting that her family had been subjected to “unjust punishment” over the trial.

Tarila also said she would be getting married in the weeks ahead, and expressed sadness over not having the opportunity of her father, whom she described as a “prisoner of conscience” walking her down the aisle, and urged the president not to limit his anti-corruption fight to financial crimes, but other areas calling for attention.

The full letter:

Your Excellency,

President Muhammadu Buhari

President, Commander-in-Chief, Federal Republic of Nigeria

Dear President Buhari,

I hope this letter reaches you in good health. My name is Tarila Okah, daughter of Mr. Charles Okah, who is currently remanded at Kuje Prison and standing trial before Hon. Justice Gabriel Kolawole at the Federal High Court in Abuja over the 2010 Independence Day bomb incident.

Mr. President, I am writing this letter principally to draw your attention, the entire people of Nigeria, and members of the international community to what I perceive as injustice being wilfully and maliciously meted to my father by the Nigerian state. Within the last 10 months, disturbing media reports about his attempt to commit suicide at the Federal High Court in Abuja on October 6, 2015 and his failing health are sad reminders of the harsh reality of my father’s frustration with the judicial system in Nigeria, which is notorious for elastic trials that can drag on for years on end and wear out all parties. It is rather unfortunate that several court dates in the course of my father’s trial have been cancelled either because the presiding Trial Judge had a conference to attend or for other reasons that brings disrepute to the Nigerian justice system. For instance, the Prosecutor Dr. Alex Izinyon, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria failed to attend one of the trials on a date that had been agreed upon beforehand, instead choosing to attend his child’s graduation ceremony abroad.

With all due respect, Mr. President, no democratic Government anywhere in the world, including Canada where I currently reside, would treat a prisoner’s attempt at suicide as well as the prisoner’s failing health, with disdain. Such a peculiar prisoner’s case ought to be concluded speedily by the Judiciary. Alternatively, such a Prisoner of Conscience as my father, should be granted bail. However, from all indications, the Nigerian Government is clearly insensitive to his plight.

Your Excellency, I have consulted with several Nigerian lawyers who have sufficiently educated me that, pursuant to Section 162 of the new Criminal Justice Administration Law in the country, my father is entitled to bail; having spent more than 3 years in prison custody. Nevertheless, Hon. Justice Gabriel Kolawole has on two previous occasions overruled my father’s applications for bail. However, the pace of the trial has still not been picked up.

Meanwhile, Justice Kolawole in 2011 easily granted bail to Senator Ali Ndume who was standing trial for terrorism as an alleged sponsor of Boko Haram.
Today, after being re-elected on the platform of your party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ndume is the Majority Leader of Nigeria’s upper legislative chamber, the Senate, while my father (who is equally as important to society) is still languishing in prison as an inmate awaiting trial; almost 6 years after he was first arrested on October 16, 2010 on suspicion of being “JOMO GBOMO,” the spokesman for the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND).

Interestingly, Nigerian media perception about my father’s culpability in the Independence Day bomb incident keeps changing. At first, he was accused of being the spokesperson of MEND. Later, he was described as an accomplice to the alleged crime; after the media and the Nigerian Government realised that ‘Jomo Gbomo’ was still releasing statements on behalf of MEND, even as my father was firmly held in custody! Now he is accused of being the mastermind.

Thus far, the prosecution has relied heavily on ‘witnesses’, all of whom have contradicted their statements under cross examination. In a recent court sitting, a witness from the Department of State Security (DSS) who introduced himself as a ‘Crime Scene Investigator’ admitted that, “no evidence was collected at the crime scene”. While another witness who supposedly ‘sold’ a Mazda car to the 2nd Defendant, admitted under cross-examination that, the very first time he set his eyes on the said Mazda car (Exhibit 2) was “at the premises of the DSS Abuja Headquarters.”

Without prejudice to his ongoing trial before Hon. Justice Gabriel Kolawole, I honestly believe that my father is innocent of the crimes alleged against him. Over the 6 year period of his incarceration and trial, his businesses which employed many Nigerians have collapsed; his family is in disarray. Years apart, especially under such circumstances, often dissolves the emotional bonds between a husband and his wife, and for my much younger siblings who have now spent more time without their father, there are virtually no emotional bonds to be dissolved.

On a more personal note, I will be getting married in a few weeks; albeit without the privilege of having my beloved father walk me down the aisle – the dream of every daughter. I feel an admixture of joy and pain as this day approaches knowing that my father is alive but held somewhere unjustly. Clearly, my siblings and I are being punished vicariously by the Nigerian state over crimes allegedly committed by our father which have not been proven beyond reasonable doubt by a court of competent jurisdiction. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, the mere act of filing even trumped-up charges carries along with it a strong presumption of guilt, which has led to my father’s conviction in the court of public opinion and has also led to the abuse of his fundamental human rights. I know that some Nigerians, on reading this open letter, will attack me for daring to appeal for my father’s freedom. But my message to those compatriots is simple: it is high time we focused on finding the real perpetrators.

Finally, Mr. President, in your determined quest to fight corruption in Nigeria, I believe that the concept of corruption should be expanded beyond financial crimes. We must also fight corruption in the system, and in this case, the judicial system. We have witnessed the speedy handling of cases involving high profile politicians, but a very sluggish process for others. The joy of my upcoming marriage plus the pain of a missing father (who is alive) equates to the simple plea: #PLEASEFREECHARLESOKAH!

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the composition of the Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), as provided for under Section 1(2) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Act of 1997, as amended.

Mr. Buhari also removed Ibe Kachikwu as group managing director of the corporation, a statement by presidential spokesperson, Femi Adesina, showed.

He however allowed him to remain as minister of state for petroleum and will serve as chairman of the new NNPC board.

The new NNPC GMD is Maikanti Kacalla Baru, according to the presidency. The President appointed Dr. Maikanti Baru as a replacement for Kachikwu who is now the chairman of the NNPC board.

Until his appointment, Dr. Maikanti Baru was the Group Executive Director, Exploration & Production of the corporation.

The new board is composed of the following:

A. Chairman-Dr Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum;
B. Group Managing Director- Dr Maikanti Kacalla Baru;
C. The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance; and
D. The following six persons:
1. Mallam Abba Kyari
2. Dr Thomas M.A John
3. Dr Pius O. Akinyelure
4. Dr Tajuddeen Umar
5. Mallam Mohammed Lawal, and
6. Mallam Yusuf Lawal.

President Buhari urges the new board to ensure the successful delivery of the mandate of the NNPC, ” and serve the nation by upholding the public trust placed on them in managing this critical national asset.”

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA: 

Leaders and Chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta state have decried the recent unsavoury statements credited to some members of All Progressive Congress (APC), who were hitherto PDP members in the state, describing them as inconsequential and of no effect to the fortunes of the PDP.

The Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Monday Igbuya, said the All Progressives Congress (APC) had disappointed Nigerians at home and abroad, advising APC leaders in the state to stop day-dreaming and building castles in the air.

Igbuya, who commended the state Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for ensuring prudent spending and investing the state resources towards effective development of the state, described Okowa as a benchmark for outstanding achievements in the country.

He therefore enjoined the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other opposition parties in the state to leave to political stage, as there was no vacancy for idlers who pose as politicians, insisting that, “Stop dreaming. APC cannot win in Delta State”

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Delta state, through its State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, also dismissed the purported defection of some Deltans to the All Progressive Congress, APC, noted that politicians were at liberty to seek political platforms to actualize their political ambitions, but added that many politicians who have defected to other platforms outside the PDP, have been roundly defeated in past elections in the state, dismissing them as political spent forces who lacked the capacity to win election at any level of governance.

He noted that the PDP was solid in Delta State and was well poised to continue to win elections in all nooks and crannies in the state, insisting that the acceptability of the PDP has been further enhanced by the excellent performance of the Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, who he described as a miracle working governor, in the past one year.

Osuoza, who affirmed that the current Party leadership had commenced a comprehensive drive to re-position the PDP in the state and consolidate on the gains of democracy over the years, hailed the astute and resulted-oriented administration of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, as showcased in the massive commissioning and inspection of projects across the three Senatorial zones, to mark the first anniversary of his administration.

In the same vein, as a benchmark for outstanding achievements in the country.

While commending the governor for his administrative style, Igbuya said the All Progressives Congress (APC) had disappointed Nigerians at home and abroad, advising APC leaders in the state to stop day-dreaming and building castles in the air, insisting that, “Stop dreaming. APC cannot win in Delta State”

Also, the PDP Chairman in Patani local government area of Delta state, Mr. Godspower Asiuwhu, has condemned recent attacks on the party by one Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe and other APC chieftains, alleging cracks in the government of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa on the Social Media. He described the APC members as disgruntled enemies of the prosperity of Delta state.

“It is rather unfortunate that the peddlers of this ‘hard-to-believe’ rumor are from the opposition party who are well known for their false propaganda. It is pertinent to note that the Delta state House of Assembly members have always been in support of the SMART agenda of this administration. The show of support Senator Dr. Okowa led administration receives from the house is also visible from the prompt attention Executive bills receive whenever they are sent to the house, even the APC led Federal Government do not enjoy this kind of support.

“Also, Local Government Chairmen and commissioners have timelessly pledged their support towards the growth of this administration, politically and otherwise. It should be noted here that those who claim to want to take over Delta state do not pose a threat to the leadership of the state as the good people of Delta state know what is good for them. The conglomeration of failed politicians do not in any way pose a threat to the Unity of the Peoples Democratic Party in Delta state.”

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

The Director of communication and spokesperson for the All Progressives Congress in the forth-coming governorship election Hon. Abass Braimah has fire back at the people’s Democratic Party (PDP) over their allegations and comment against the flag bearer of the All Progressive Congress (APC) Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

Hon. Braimah who was the former member representing Etsako Federal constituency at the Sixth Assembly, cautioned the opposition party in the state against hate speeches reminding them that no political party or individual has the monopoly of unguided utterances.

According to him, PDP has sufficient trouble to resolve and wonder why they are more concern about the APC candidate rather than putting their house in order. He however expresses confidence that APC will win the PDP in a landslide victory in the September governorship election.

The former lawmaker who was speaking in Canada with Edo indigenes at an endorsement program organized by Edo Indigenes in diaspora said Godwin Obaseki is the only person who can re-invigorate the Timber and Palm Kernel oil Agrobusiness and make it to take center stage in the industrialization plan that has been set out to achieve by the Obaseki administration. Edo state was formerly known for wood work and that era will be revived again where dignity will be restored in Labour.

The APC spokesperson also uses the Opportunity to appeal to foreign investors to look inward and return to the state to invest in order for them to benefit from the technological assistance that will be given to investors by Godwin Obaseki as part of his industrialization plan when he emerges as the next Governor of the state.

While pointing Palm kernel production as one of such investment that will boost Nigeria’s production and Nigeria beyond oil, Hon. Braimah stressed the need to take advantage of the availability of our natural resources for us to grow our own economy. The Okomu oil palm will be encouraged as a government that is hungry for fast and result oriented development.

He maintains that one key plans of the Obaseki administration will be the creation of maximum employment across the state stressing that with the establishment of modern technological plant, employment will be created automatically because palm kernel oil is in high demand by soap makers, vegetable oil refiners and paints industry. Cake is demanded by feed millers and exporters.

The APC spoke person express confidence that employment will be a thing of the past in Edo State as soon as Obaseki emerge as the next governor. Hon. Braimah noted that, once the factories are established, customers will keep depositing in advance for production.

He further assures the Edo Indigenes in diaspora that government will make intervention fund available to assuage the complaints of small and medium enterprises. The impact of government will be felt on a daily basis by the grassroots because small businesses have a domineering presence in our state. Big business is mostly service by small enterprise so we must encourage them to exist simultaneously Braimah added.

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

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has called for deployment of more Police personnel to ensure consolidation of the existing peace in the state.

The Governor made the call, Weekend in Asaba when he received on courtesy call, the acting Inspector General of Police, Mr Ibrahim Idris.

According to the Governor, it was a thing of joy that peace has returned to troubled areas in the state and commended Mr Idris for visiting the state for an on-the-spot assessment of security situation.

While noting that the state was relatively peaceful, the Governor emphasised, “we had security challenges but by the grace of God, they are easing off and with this visit to some of the riverine areas, we hope you will see the security challenges and hopefully we will receive more Police personnel to handle the challenges there.”

The Governor who congratulated Mr Idris on his elevation as acting Inspector General of Police, observed, “I can see that with the physical fitness in you a lot will be achieved; I believe that we will also make a lot of progress when there is timely sharing of intelligence and information because, once we have warm relationship and sharing of opinions, we will achieve a lot in having a peaceful state, a peaceful country.”

He commended the Inspector General of Police’s proposed “Eminent Persons Forum” in all Area Commands asserting that “it will help the Police have a better understanding of our people, culture and peculiar security issues and how to handle them”.

Senator Okowa assured the acting Police Boss that his administration would always work with security agencies and assist them when necessary for them to do their jobs effectively, reiterating that his administration would not condone any form of criminality or criminal elements in the state.

Earlier, the acting Inspector General of Police accompanied by top echelon of the security agency, told the Governor and members of the executive council including, leadership of the state legislature present during the visit that they were in the state to assess and evaluate the security situation and what their men were doing to tackle security issues.

“We want to assure you that the present leadership of Nigeria Police Force are in the service for the government and people of Delta State; we will set up eminent people’s forum for elders in all Police Commands to be involved in managing security challenges, especially those issues peculiar to their areas”, Mr Idris said, ” adding “ the Police is in the service of the people, we are your servant, we are here to serve you, I want to solicit your cooperation to make us serve you better”

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state has decried the destruction of oil facilities in the Niger-Delta region, noting that it has compounded the financial woes of the nation as oil prices has not only reduced but, the country could not increase oil production to boost revenue.
The Governor stated this during a stakeholders meeting on creating a peaceful atmosphere for the development of Delta State and the Niger Delta region on Wednesday, June 29, 2006 in Warri.
He said, “we are having reduced oil price and reduced quota of production in the country but, the greatest effect is on Delta State; this state used to receive over N20 billion and just this month, we got only N3 billion.”
He however, emphasized that in support for Mr. Ibe Kachikwu, Minister of State for Petroleum, a Deltan, there should be cessation of hostilities, reiterating, “today, we have a Deltan who is the Minister of State for Petroleum, it is not all about politics, he is not from an oil producing area of the state, so his preference will be for all and he has an open heart, he is not playing active party politics, we need to provide enabling environment for him to succeed, we should support him, we should avoid pipeline vandalism.”
Also, in a bid to ensure peaceful co-existence in Delta State, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has said that from 2017, there will be award for most peaceful ethnic groups in the state.
According to the Governor, “from 2017, there will be a price for the President General of ethnic nationality that is most peaceful; this stakeholders meeting is to appreciate all of us including our traditional rulers for the roles we are playing for us to have peace in our communities, we don’t need to wait for crisis before we talk about how to build on existing peace.”
“When peace building becomes a collective will of everyone of us, we will achieve the desired results in bringing development to our people,” the Governor said, “we are glad that peace has returned to our communities, we need to work together because, we have always been known as a very friendly people, a people who are proactive and I believe that each and everyone of us gathered in this hall will like to see rapid development, move around unhindered.”
Security chiefs at the occasion called on Deltans to give useful information to security operatives to nip situations in the bud observing that criminality especially, pipeline vandalism has long term effects on the environment.
Others who spoke at the occasion, including traditional rulers called for the implementation of local content in the oil sector and proper equipping of security operatives.

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka