Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
Delta State Government has set up an eight man committee to prepare and organise the 25th Anniversary of the creation of the state with a charge to harness the unity and peace that bind Deltans.
Speaking in Asaba at a Press Conference yesterday [20-06-16] to herald the activities to mark the Anniversary celebration, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, represented by the Information Commissioner, Mr, Patrick Ukah said that “ his administration resolved to celebrate Delta@ 25 to take stock of the journey so far, achievements recorded and plot further and better approaches at peaceful co-existence among the various ethnic groups, new development paradigm and refocusing the fundamentals of government to achieve greater and result-oriented improvements in the lives of our people”.
The Committee has Rt. Hon Ovie Agas, Secretary to Government as Chairman, with Mr Patrick Ukah, [Information Commissioner]; Mrs Mary Iyasere [Commerce and Industry Commissioner]; Prof. Eric Eboh [Chief Job Creation Officer]; Prof. Sylvester Monye [Senior Policy Adviser]; Chief George Orogun [Economic Adviser]; Mr Sunday Ozege [Special Adviser, Investment] and Mrs Shimite Bello, [Executive Secretary, Micro, Small and Medium Development Agency] as members.
Governor Okowa, stressed that “the idea of the celebration of the Silver Jubilee was motivated by the need to review the state of development of the state from inception, examine achievements made, and explore the way forward for greater development, so as to make it primus inter pares among committee of states in the nation”.
He lauded the achievements of the founding fathers, leaders and past governors of the state, emphasising that they provided the building blocks for lasting developmental legacies in the state.
The governor who explained that the celebration would be private sector driven listed the activities earmarked for the celebration to include Delta Investment and Economic Summit; Music Concert; Grand Gala; Cultural Festival/Beauty Pageant and Thanksgiving service among others.
Mr. Ukah also at the Press Conference disclosed that the State Executive Council at its last meeting approved the appointment of Prince Chukwuka Akaeze as the Obi of Ubulu-Uku, and also the Central Bank of Nigeria, Anchor Growers programme for farmers and youths in the state.
He disclosed further that EXCO approved the Federal government support fund for job creation programmes of the state government, especially the Grassroots Employment and Enhancement Programme (GEEP) meant to prepare young graduates for employment.Delta Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah (right), representing Governor Ifeanyi Okowa; Special Adviser to the Governor on Investments, Mr Sunday Ozege (left); Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Mr Jude Aguonye (2nd right); his coleague, office of the S.SG. Mr Jerum Morka (2nd left) and others the unveiling of the 25th Anniverary Logo.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Ikpeazu
Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu has been ordered to vacate office with immediate effect. Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja gave the order on Monday.
Meanwhile, Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has enjoined the people of the state not to panic, but “remain calm” over the judgment of Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court Abuja that ordered his removal from office.
The order was sequel to the allegation that Ikpeazu tendered false information to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to contest the governorship primaries in December 2014. Justice Abang, had earlier on Monday delivered the case of alleged falsification of tax receipts brought before it in favour of the plaintiff, Mr. Uche Oga.
Also, the presiding Judge directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately issue a Certificate of Return to the plaintiff, Uche Ogah and ordered the Chief Judge of the state to swear in Uche Ogah, his opponent in the December 2014 guber election, hence Okezie Ikpeazu, the Abia State governor, was not qualified to hold the office.
Justice Okon Abang, directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cede the certificate of return to the opponent of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia state as he was never qualified to run for the party primaries in the People’s Democratic party (PDP) as a guber candidate.
The judge also ordered the Chief Judge of the state to swear in, Uche Ogah, his opponent in the December 2014 gubernatorial election in state as the substantive governor of Abia state. The judge ruled that on the account of fake tax returns during the primaries, and that Dr. Ikpeazu was never qualified to run in the primaries.
Governor Ikpeazu has reacted to the judgement, saying his lawyers will file an appeal immediately against the said judgment.
The Governor noted as an appointee of the Abia State Government from 2011 to 2014, when he served as the General Manager, Abia State Passengers Integrated Manifest and Safety Scheme (ASPIMSS), and first Deputy General Manager, Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) Aba and Environs respectively, before his resignation in October 2014 to contest the Governorship election in the state, his taxes were deducted at source within that period.
According to him, when he had need of his tax clearance in 2014, he applied to the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue, and was duly issued with his tax receipts for the period in question.
Ikpeazu maintained that he remains the Governor of the state according to law and will await the final determination of the matter by the appellate courts.
Uche Ogah, a major contender during the PDP primaries had approached the court to declare Okezie unqualified to secure the party’s nomination for alleged tax evasion.
It could be recalled that Ogah, polled the second highest number of votes in the PDP primaries.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – from left; Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; President, D’Arcano, Sergio D’Arcano and Managing Director D’Arcano Nigeria, Noise Massogvi, during the Signing of MoU between the State Government and D’Arcano Nigeria.
Delta State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding [MoU] with Development Partners to kick- started the construction of the Delta Commercial City project in Asaba with Governor Okowa assuring of government’s commitment to boost infrastructural development in the state.
Speaking during the signing ceremony on Monday, June 27, 2016, Senator Okowa who said that Deltans were desirous for development, stated that government would provide the enabling environment for infrastructural development to thrive.
He stressed that the Delta Commercial City would not only provide employment for the people of the state but also bring development to the state.
Barr. Ovie Agas, Secretary To The State Government, signed the MoU on behalf of the state government and witnessed by Governor Okowa along with other members of the state Executive Council, while Messrs. Moise Nassogui of D’Arcano Group and Olawole Rhodes-Vivour, Al HUDA Nig. Limited signed on behalf of the Development Partners.
“The process of the Memorandum of Understanding [MoU] is heart-warming as everyone is eager to get the project started, deltans are eager to see development in the state, we are convinced the time for the Delta Commercial City is now, as we are building a city for the future today.”, the governor said.
“I want to assure you of government’s commitment and support to enable the project spring up as soon as possible, government will provide all the enabling environment especially security for the project to thrive”. He added.
Senator Okowa assured the Development Partners that the project “is an economic plus as it is located in a prime area and will attract a lot of businesses” asserting that the economic gains to both the state and its Development partners can’t be quantified.
In his remarks, Mr. Kingsley Emu, Chairman, Steering Committee for the project, said that with the signing of the MoU, the process to kick start the development of the project would be activated and the Special Project Vehicle [SPV] would be put in place.
He assured that the project worth several millions of dollars has great economic prospects for the state and the investors.
Messrs. Moise Nassogui of D’Arcano Group and Olawole Rhodes-Vivour, Al HUDA Nig. Limited on their part, said that the Delta Commercial City was a project which would pivot the development of the state promising due diligence in the delivery of this project. Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (left) Olawale Rhoders-Vivour, Al Huda. during the Signing of MoU between the State Government and D’Arcano Nigeria
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Hon. Chika Ossai
The Commissioner, Bureau for Special Duties, Delta State, Hon. Chika Ossai has urged Deltans living in riverine communities to brace up for flood.
Hon. Ossa, in Asaba, said the warning had become necessary to avoid casualties as a result of flood.
According to him, “it is important that we are prepared for flood, this is rainy season and we should not be taken unawares because that will be disastrous.”
“We don’t want any casualty as a result of flood, we, at the Bureau for Special Duties, the State Emergency Relief Agency in conjunction with the National Emergency Management Agency is prepared to tackle any emergency situation, but, it is better to avoid any unhealthy occurrence.”
The Commissioner disclosed that last year’s flood could have been disastrous if not for the awareness that made people to be prepared.
He added, “there is nothing wrong in taking precautionary measures, we should adopt safety measures, especially, those of us in flood-prone areas because, water will not give prior warning before it overflows its banks.”
On the flooding being witnessed in Asaba metropolis, Hon. Ossai said, “it is unfortunate that whenever it rains, some parts of the town is flooded for some minutes; government is working towards effective flood control in the state capital but, we should also help ourselves by clearing our drains, especially on days declared for sanitation.”
“We should imbibe good habits towards our environment, we should not block the drains or build on water ways, we should learn to dispose our wastes properly and the situation will not be as bad as we are witnessing,” he said, asserting, “while we wait for government to construct drains, we should learn to maintain existing ones.”
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – late Pa. Moses Ejakpovi
REV, Fr. Louis Ogbebi has described the life of late Pa. Moses Ejakpovi as worthy to be emulated by every Christian.
The Priest made the call Thursday evening (this evening – 23/06/16)) while delivering a sermon at the service of songs held to signal the commencement of rites of passage for late Pa. Ejakpovi at his residents at Emevor, Isoko North local government area of Delta State. Dr. Paul Oweh (right) condoles with Dr. (Pharm.) Nelson Ejakpovi during the Service of Songs
According to the Priest, the deceased “lived an exemplary life, a devout Catholic, a good friend to so many and will be deeply missed.”
He observed that it was painful to lose such a man despite his age.
“There is never a time when death is welcomed by any one, no matter how old your relative may be, you will never wish such a person death and I want to thank every one of us who is here today to pray for our father, I think he was the eldest in our parish here; he was a man to be emulated,” the Priest said, adding, “he was a fulfilled man, he had successful children and contributed immensely to the growth of the Church in Emevor.”
At the occasion, one of his sons, Dr. (Pharm.) Nelson Ejakpovi who is the Chairman, Governing Council, College of Health Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli, while thanking those who attended the ceremony, urged them to attend the funeral Mass on Friday, June 24th, 2016 (tomorrow) at the funeral Mass which will take place at James Welch Grammar School, Emevor. A cross section of traditional ruler and dignitaries
He disclosed that the Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa is among dignitaries expected to attend the funeral Mass.
Earlier the Provost, Delta State College of Health Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli, Dr. (Mrs.) Agnes Olojoba described the passage of Pa Ejakpovi as a great loss, adding, “the joy is that he lived to old age and has such notable contributions to the growth of the society, like Dr. Nelson Ejakpovi as his children.”
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
Tension seems to have gripped Nigerians, expecially the Military top brass, following the revelation by a dominant Niger Delta Militant group, Joint Niger Delta Liberation Force (JNDLF), that the Nigerian military is currently scheming to cause crises in Nigeria to facilitate a coup that will oust President Muhammadu Buhari from power.
The group, in a statement signed by persons who identified themselves as ‘General’ Torunanaowei Latei (Creek Network Coordinator); ‘General’ Agbakakuro Owei-Tauro (Pipeline Bleeding Expert); ‘General’ Akotebe Darikoro (Commander, General Duties) and ‘General’ Pulokiri Ebikade (Intelligence Bureau), claimed that some Military officials have approached the militants to intensify their bombing operations.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Military, in a quick response, reiterate its unalloyed loyalty to the President, unconditional support and obedience to civil authority, adding that its personnel will never be involved in such terrible misadventure.
The Nigerian Army in a statement signed by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman, described the allegation as campaign of calumny and distraction by faceless criminal gang of economic saboteurs. It vowed to track and find out those behind the insinuations and bring them to justice.
JNDLF Statement
“We are constraint to let the cat out of the bag today that PresidentMohammadu Buhari should be wary about the security of this country as some military men are making move to remove him from power by instigating civil unrest in the country.
“Some top military men through their civil agents approached us to cause and continue the vandalization of the oil and gas pipelines in the Niger delta region so as to use as an excuse to take over the government from democracy to military rule in the country.
“We said no as such plan will not work and not in conformity with our genuine desire of agitation.The military want to disgrace him now and let him quickly look into the issues and make pronouncement for his administration to be in peace.
“Let president should analyze certain memo from the military concerning Niger delta region before taking action or otherwise the military will use that as a platform to remove him. We know the issue of Niger delta is political and we preferred political solution to resolve it but if the president refused”.
“We received several calls unknown to persuade us to continue the bombing and that when succeeded in overthrowing the government we will be placed on a better position, we said capital NO!
“When asked of their names they are above Major General’s level. They refused to disclose their names but their intonations seem like yoruba and Hausa. Our agitation is not for selfish interest but for the overall benefit of the Niger delta region.
“We’ll not kidnap any person, kill or hostage taking of any expatriate in the country but will continue our agitation with clear determination to actualize our course in Nigeria.
“We believe their sinister plan because their is ceasefire in the region for dialogue, but since then the attitude and actions of the service chiefs show that such plan could work for them.”
Army Press Statement
The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to another campaign of calumny and distraction by faceless criminal gang of economic saboteurs that hide under the aegis of Joint Niger Delta Liberation Force (JNDLF) alleging that some officers of the Nigerian Army approached them for support to overthrow our duly elected present democratic government.
This is baseless and most unfortunate allegation that existed in the warped minds of the originators of such weighty allegation. The Nigerian Army wish to state that this is not true and hereby distanced itself from this weighty allegation.
We also see this speculation as a dangerous distraction to our effort in fighting insurgency and other criminal elements in the country.
The Nigerian Army would like to send a strong and an unequivocal warning to those speculating a coup by the Nigerian Army (NA) against the Government to desist forthwith. We would like state in clear terms that that we are a product of democracy and a focused professional institution and would have nothing to do with such abomination and heinous crime.
We wish to state further that the NA is the greatest beneficiary of democracy and therefore cannot ever contemplate any anti-democratic misadventure, certainly not under the command of the present Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai. Rather, we see this type of dangerous speculation as a declaration of war to destabilise the present government by these unscrupulous elements.
The Nigerian Army is investigating those behind the dangerous insinuation in order to unravel the real motive behind it.
We would like to reiterate our unalloyed loyalty to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and defence of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We would also like to reaffirm our unconditional support and obedience to civil authority.
We wish to further assure Nigerians and indeed all peace loving people that the Nigerian Army and indeed its personnel will never be involved in such terrible misadventure.
We wish to further add that no matter how long it takes, we would track and find out those behind these insinuations and bring them to justice.
You are kindly requested to disseminate this information to the public through your medium.
Thank you for your kind cooperation.
Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman Acting Director Army Public Relations
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – “This is laughable and is gradually becoming a character of the APC in Edo State to believe that it can scare opponents through smear campaign. Governor Okowa declared publicly that he would support the PDP candidate both morally and logistically to win the September 10, 2016 governorship election in Edo state and no amount of brow beating would stop him”.
Smioes before fistcuff: Oshiomhole and Okowa
Delta State Governor, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa, has restated his support for the Peoples Democratic Party’s candidates in the Edo State gubernatorial election, Pastor Osagie Ize- Iyamu and dismissed the allegation of the Edo state Government that he was recruiting thugs to undermine the Edo election as baseless and indicative of loss of confidence of the APC-led government to woo voters based on track records of its achievement.
A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okowa, Mr. Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu, in response to the allegation by the Edo state government stated that it was preposterous for the Edo state government to expect that Deltans would leave their constituencies and embark on a wild goose chase of registering to vote in Edo state.
He noted that Edo state Government has also exhibited its ignorance of the workings of the Permanent Voter Card which makes multiple registration impossible and asked the APC in the state to restrict itself to issues rather than resort to name- calling.
“Governor Okowa is too refined to engage in such clandestine activities to the extent of decimating his own support base by encouraging his constituents to register in another state. What becomes the fate of Delta political stakeholders who would rely on the votes of those people in subsequent elections? He queried.
“This is laughable and is gradually becoming a character of the APC in Edo State to believe that it can scare opponents through smear campaign. Governor Okowa declared publicly that he would support the PDP candidate both morally and logistically to win theSeptember 10, 2016 governorship election in Edo state and no amount of brow beating would stop him”
The statement recalled Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s outburst, some weeks ago, against the South PDP Governors for pledging their support for the PDP in Edo state and wondered when it became an offence to declare support for members of one’s party.
“Governor Oshiomhole boasted that he could win election against Gov. Okowa in Delta state. Why is the edo state APC getting fidgety for a mere declaration of support to the PDP candidate by Governor Okowa.”
Governor Okowa called on the security agencies to intensify its surveillance on all the electoral processes to ensure that those who cry the wolves where there is none do not find a chink to rig the polls.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (middle); State PDP Chairman, Barri. Kingsley Esiso (2nd right); Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Friday Osanebi (2nd left); Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Chiedu Ebie (left) and the Chairman, Ukwani LGA, Barri Ndudi Osakuni-Izuegbu (Right) during the commissioning of Onyia Primary School and Umuaja Primary School in Ukwuani LGA.
DELTA State Commissioner for Information, Mr Patrick Ukah has described the project Commissioning spree of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as good for Deltans and democracy.
Speaking with journalists at Ogume, Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State during the commissioning of some projects executed by Governor Okowa as part of activities to mark his one year in office, Mr Ukah said, the projects were clear testimonies that democracy was working with the one year administration of Dr Okowa.
According to him, “ordinarily, Governor Okowa would have just celebrated the one year of his administration in Asaba, but, you can see the beauty of democracy when all the local government areas of the state have at least one project to be commissioned by the Governor or be inspected.”
“Just for one year, he has done so much, imagine another three years or seven years, Delta State will be transformed,” Mr Ukah said, emphasizing, “but for this commissioning exercise, the world would not have known that the Governor has done so much within one year because of his disposition to issues.”
The Commissioner continued, “you know, our Governor does not believe in playing to the gallery but, we cannot remove the fact that within one year, he has done so much, he cannot even commission all the projects within this period.”Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, represented by the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah (right), and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Petroleum Matters, Mr. Bosin Ebikeme (left), commissioning the Akala Road in Umusadege-Ogbe Community in Ndokwa West Local Government Area
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (left), receiving a copy address from the new CP. Mr. Zanna Ibrahim during a courtesy call by the latter on the Governor in Asaba
Delta State Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has disclosed that the state government would demolish houses and properties of convicted kidnappers and their collaborators in the state to check incidents of kidnapping and other criminal activities.
Speaking when he received on a courtesy visit, Mr. Zanna Ibrahim, the newly posted state Commissioner of Police and his team on Wednesday, in Asaba, Governor Okowa said that the amended kidnapping law would go beyond jail sentence for kidnappers as the properties and houses of culpable individuals and their collaborators would be demolished as they will considered as proceeds of crime.
“We will do all we can to stop kidnappings in the state, it is becoming a menace in the country, we are amending the Anti-kidnapping law in the state to make sure that those involved and their collaborators will not go scot free with the proceeds of the crime. The houses and properties of those involved, their beneficiaries and collaborators will be brought down. We will implement the law to the letter when the amended bill is passed and signed into law”, the governor said.
He commended Mr Ibrahim on his plans to partner with communities and vigilante groups in crime prevention and intelligence gathering and assured him of the state government’s commitment to a crime free Delta State, adding that the state’s vigilante law would be ammended to make it operational and clear all contentious issues.
“we welcome your advocacy as it will enable the communities build confidence in the police, and information will be given to the police without fear. It is difficult to police a state without partnership with the community stakeholders, some of our people have become apprehensive of the activities of the criminals among the herdsmen and it has spread to the cattle rearers who have lived among us , we need to sift the criminals from the genuine ones, this advocacy will help us in this process,”, he stated
While assuring the Police Commissioner of government’s partnership in the mopping up of light arms in the state, Governor Okowa promised to work with his team to make the state crime free and peaceful for investors, visitors and all deltans .
Earlier, Mr. Ibrahim expressed his appreciation to Governor Okowa for the warm reception he got on his assumption of office, stressing that he would partner with traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to ensure a crime free state.
“I will synergise with stakeholders and hold advocacy meetings with communities while sharing information with security agencies within and outside the state to check crimes. We will engage vigilante groups for information and intelligence gathering and mop up light arms so as to make Delta State crime free”, he said. Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (5th right); his Deputy, Barri . Kingsley Otuaro (5th left), in a group photograph with the new CP . Mr. Zanna Ibrahim during a courtesy call by the latter on the Governor in Asaba ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Bihari congratulates Idris
President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday approved the appointment of Ibrahim Kpotun Idris, as the new Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP).
Mr. Idris, an Assistant Inspector General of Police, is expected to succeed Mr. Solomon Arase who retired on Tuesday after 35 years in service.
The Niger State born Police boss, was until his recent appointment in charge of Operations at the Force Headquarters.
Both the new and outgoing IGP, it was learnt were earlier summoned by President Muhammadu Buhari at the presidential villa, where it is said the decision is taken.
PROFILE of Ibrahim Kpotun Idris:.
Ibrahim Kpotun Idris, hails from Niger State (North – Central) whose choice may be based on his track record of performance in the service. Ibrahim Kpotun Idris, home town is Kutigi, Lavun in Niger State. He was born on 15th of January 1959.
Ibrahim Kpotun Idris was enlisted into the Nigerian Police Force in 1984, after graduating from the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria with a Bachelors degree in Agriculture. He also holds a degree in Law from the University of Maiduguri.
Ibrahim Kpotun Idris has served in various commands and formations in the Nigerian Police Force, working in the Police Mobile Force for 17 years as Unit Commander, Squadron Commander, and Commandant.
He served as Commissioner of Police in Nasarawa and Kano States and was also the Commissioner of Police in charge of Police Mobile Force at the Force Headquarters. He was also at the United Nations Mission in Liberia and East Timor and was awarded “Medal of Merit” by the President of the Republic of East Timor in recognition of his service.
Ibrahim Kpotun Idris who was in charge of Operations at the Force Headquarters before his appointment as the Acting Inspector-General of Police, will act in that capacity pending his confirmation.
Ibrahim Kpotun Idris holds a Law degree from the University of Maiduguri, Idris was enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force as cadet ASP in 1984 and rose through the rank.
He served as divisional crime officer and traffic officer in Gusau in the present Zamfara State from January 1986 to March 1987 and was transferred to the Police Mobile Force in April 1987 where he served for 17 years during which period he held several command positions.
He was Commandant, Mobile Force Training School, Gwoza Borno State, from February 1998 to January 31 2004.
Having obtained two academic degrees of law and agriculture at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and University of Maiduguri, respectively, Idris had also attended numerous courses and trainings in Nigeria and abroad and partook in several peace keeping missions in many countries of the world.
Ibrahim Kpotun Idris started his police career since 1984 when he joined the force as Cadet ASP after which he was posted as Gusau Police Divisional Crime Officer in 1986 and later Unit Commander 7PMF Sokoto between 1987 and 1989.
Owing to his excelling competence, unique performance, commitment to duty and doggedness, Ibrahim Kpotun Idris was elevated to the rank of Deputy Police Commissioner Operations and Second in Command at the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor Leste UNMIT between 2009 to April 2011 and again, Acting Police Commissioner UNMIT.
In July of the same year he was appointed Kano State Commissioner of Police, a position he held until February 2013 when he was selected to attend Senior Police Officers Course at Nigeria Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies Kuru (NIPSS) where he bagged the prestigious mni membership.
The New Nigeria acting Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Kpotun Idris is one of the rare talented police officers Nigeria is bestowed with. IG Idris has virtually acquired all the training to face the challenges of security in modern time anywhere in the world.
He is a versatile officer, highly trained with administrative acumen, a combatant imbued with dexterity to perform and execute assignments with precision, and above all, an officer with diplomatic experience and approach.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (middle); State PDP Chairman, Barri. Kingsley Esiso (2nd right); Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Friday Osanebi (2nd left); Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Chiedu Ebie (left) and the Chairman, Ukwani LGA, Barri Ndudi Osakuni-Izuegbu (Right) during the commissioning of Onyia Primary School and Umuaja Primary School in Ukwuani LGA.
DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr, Ifeanyi Okowa has called on Nigerians to always have respect for the national anthem,
According to Governor Okowa, “when the national anthem is being sang, no other song should be sang, everybody is expected to stand at attention and nobody is expected to move.”
Governor Okowa made the clarification on Tuesday, June 21, 2016 during the commissioning of rehabilitated Ogbagu Primary School, Ogume, Ndokwa West local government area of the state after he observed that a group of youths were busy dancing while the national anthem was being recited.
“The national anthem is a symbol of our nationhood and we must respect it; it is not about Governor Okowa but about our country,” the Governor said at the occasion which was attended by the cream of the society.
At the ceremony which was part of activities lined up to celebrate his one year in office, the Governor warned teachers to avoid doing personal business during school hours, stating that his administration will not condone such.
At Umuaja, Ukwuani Local Government Area of the state while commissioning newly constructed and renovated blocks of classrooms in Onyia and Umuaja Primary Schools, the Governor said the rebuilding and renovation of primary schools within one year by his administration was due to the prompt payment of the counterpart funding to the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).
He said the state government undertook the rebuilding and renovation of twenty five primary schools, located in every local government area across the state,
charging the communities to protect government infrastructure in their areas, just as the Governor reiterated that his administration would not relent in delivering democratic dividends to the people based on the finances available to the state.
In his speech, the Chairman of Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Sunny Ogwu thanked Governor Okowa for encouraging the provision of infrastructure in schools while the President General of Umuaja Community, Comrade Ebinum Ucheka lauded the numerous landmark achievements of Governor Okowa’s administration in less than one year in office.
Earlier, while responding to a speech, Okowa revealed that there is the possibility of new electoral Wards being created before the next local government elections in the state.
According to the Governor, based on requests and increasing population of tge electorate, “before the next local government elections which will take place in October, 2017, I believe more Wards will be created by DSIEC (Delta State Independent Electoral Commission).”
Governor Okowa who was received by a marmoth crowd wherever he went to, also, inspected the level of work at Beneku road and Model Secondary, Ashaka in Ndokwa East local government area of the state. From Left Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, paying apt attention to the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary, Mr Chiedu Ebie (middle) and the Commissioner for Information, Mr Patrick Ukah during the Governor’s inspection of the Model Second School Ashaka. ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Gov. Okowa (right) congratulating Ize-Iyamu during the PDP Congress in Benin City.
Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu following his victory at the Edo State PDP Primary election which held on Monday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
This was contained in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu, wherein the Governor described the emergence of Ize-Iyamu, a former Secretary to the Edo State Government as “well deserved”.
Governor Okowa praised the resilience of Pastor Ize-Iyamu who polled 584 votes to beat his closest rival, Hon. Mathew Iduoriyekemwen who got 91 votes, while Dr. Solomon Edebiri scored 38 votes.
The Governor commended the Electoral Panel for the peaceful conduct of the election while assuring the people of Edo State that as members of one family, he will be involved in the PDP campaign which will usher in a progressive and development-oriented government in Edo State.
According to him, “I thank God that I witnessed this electiion today, the organizers of the primaries promised free and fair elections, I am so glad because a candidate has emerged through a very acceptable process and it will make the work easier.”
“For the government and all of us in Delta State, we promise you our support; with the one spirit I am seeing in us today, we will win the elections come September,” Governor Okowa said.
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HEAVY uncertainty seems to have set in ahead of the burial ceremony of one of Nigeria’s foremost footballer, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, as there is an unholy divide among family relations and in-laws on the suitable resting place for the “Big Boss”.
The issue which has elicited angst and concerns among Keshi’s immediate household, family members, in-laws, traditional chieftains, close friends, colleagues and business associates is currently brewing uneccesary tension or a cold war over claims and counter claims regarding where Keshi would be hurried.
The raging question is, if a man dies, should he be hurried in his home (birth) place, in-law (wife’s) place or residential (sojourn) place?
At Illah, Oshimili North local government area of Delta State, where Keshi hails from, the position was for the corpse of their beloved son to be brought home.
Some of those who spoke on condition of anonymity stated that it was impossible to contemplate burying Keshi at his in-law’s place, whereas he has a house at his home town, Illah, where he is also a titled traditional palace chief and his relatives are still alive.
“We are surprised that at death, so many persons who were not interested in Keshi became so interested based on what they stand to gain,” an impeccable source from his family in Illah who does not want his name in print said.
According to him, “when Keshi’s wife died which was not long ago, how many star footballers identified with him? Was National Football Federation (NNF) led by Amaju Pinnick involved? If Keshi is to wake up today, how will they feel? They are just playing to the gallery.
“Has NFF met its obligations to Keshi? Let them bring his remains home and allow us to give him a befitting burial deserving of a hero who has served the country meritoriously.”
Reiterating, he said “all these interests in Keshi is affecting us, they should not disorganize us because of Keshi’s death, we are seriously pained that people are interested in what they stand to gain rather than giving honour to whom honour is due?”
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
The Federal Minister of Power, Work and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, has disclosed that President Mohammad Buhari has pledged to continue and prioritize the completion of the 2nd Niger Bridge.
The Hon. Minister made the disclosure in Asaba on Monday, 20th June, 2016, when he came in company of the Project Coordinator, Mr. HD Bley JBN and other experts to see, ascertain and inspect the level of works that has been done so far.
He noted that one of the major reasons of his journey to the State was to pay homages to the host communities that are hosting the project, which are in Anambra and Delta States. And to seek for full cooperation from them with the Federal Government of Nigeria towards the actualization of the famous proposed 2nd Niger Bridge.
Mr. Fashola stated that the Project, an extension of the 1st Niger Bridge which connect the East and Western part of the country is one of the projects that will bring wealth creation and prosperity to the country.
The Hon. Minister noted that the 2nd Niger Bridge is a national asset. So as parts of the mandate of the Federal Government, President Buhari want him to facilitate the completion of the Project.
“We are mindful of compensation. If there is peace, compensations will come, we can be building while compensations issues is going on and will be sorted out accordingly. All the Federal Government wanted is full cooperation from host communities so that workers can go back to site to make the project achievable”. He said while appealing to the host communities that they will surely be compensated for their lands and properties encroached on/ affected by the project.
In his remarks, Delta State Deputy Governor, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro pledged that the State will do everything possible to see to the successful completion of the 2nd Niger Bridge.
H noted that as promised in their votes campaign to see to the prosperity of all Del tan, the State Government cannot afford not to key into the laudable projects of the Federal Government.
Barr. Otuaro, accompanied by the State Commissioners for; Works, Hon. James Augoye, Lands, Hon. Dan Okenyi, Transport, Hon. Vincent Uduaghan, Information, Hon. Patrick Ukah and other top government functionaries commended the Federal Government for considering the completion of the project.
Also speaking, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Joseph Chike Edozie, the Asagba of Asaba, who was represented by Chief Patrick O. Onyeobi, hailed the Federal Government for the plan continuation of the 2nd Niger Bridge. Adding that, with the achievements of Babatunde Fashola when he was Governor of Lagos, he has no doubt he will excel in his portfolios.
He advised the Minister to be careful of those he deals with in the negotiation of any compensation to be paid so that he will not fall into the hands of mischief makers.
Prof. Edozie appealed to the Hon. Minister to consider the rehabilitation and completion of the Illah – Ebu Bridge as parts of the projects that will enhance development to the country.
The revered Monarch affirmed the position of the Delta State Government by assuring the Minister of his full support /cooperation and that of other traditional rulers in the State towards the achievement of the successful completion of this laudable project of the Federal Government.
In his submission, Engr. Edward Bosah, ER of the 2nd Bridge revealed that the project is a 3 lanes bridge of 7kilometers road.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – ObasekiIze-Iyamu
The battle line between the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) and erstwhile Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) seem to have been drawn in Benin, the capital city of Edo state, considering the way and manner the parties primaries of the contending political parties were conducted.
On Monday, June 20, 2016, Pastor Osagie Andrew Ize-Iyamu won the primaries to fly the flag of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State Governorship election scheduled for September.
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu polled 584 majority votes in a landslide victory that saw him clinch the party’s ticket to slug it out with the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, whose party primaries held on Saturday, June 18, 2016 at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.
Obaseki defeated 11 other aspirants including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Pius Odubu, to enable him lock horns with Ize-Iyamu in the political battle that will produce the next governor of Edo State.
While Obaseki appears to be the anointed candidate of Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu’s PDP governorship primaries victory has been adjudged as good omen, and right candidate to wrest power from the APC in Edo state.
The Governorship election in Edo state is billed to hold in November 2016.
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Ndokwa National Union, NNU also known as Ndokwa Neku, the apex socio-cultural ethnic nation of Delta State, recently held its general conference where a new executive body was elected to oversee the affairs of the body for a new term. The event which held at the Utagba-Ogbe Sports Stadium, Kwale, in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State on Saturday, 28th of May, 2016, attracted an unprecedented crowd of delegates, members, and observers from the three local government areas that make up Ndokwa ethnic nationality in Delta State.
The coveted office of the President General, which was zoned to Ndokwa West Local Government Area, following the expiration of the tenure of Chief Enebeli- the outgoing president from Ndokwa East Local Government Area, attracted four eminent sons of Ndokwa nation from Ndokwa West who contested for the position. The four contestants are; Chief Kaine, a Port Harcourt based business man from Utagba Uno; Chief Johnson Opone, a Gubernatorial aspirant in the 2015 Governorship election in Delta State under the auspices of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP and a chartered Accountant; Professor Ojieh, formerly of Delta State University, Abraka and Chief Ananyi, a financial executive from Utagba-Uno.
The open secret delegates election kicked off with accreditation of delegates as early as 7:30 am and the accreditation lasted between 7:30 am to 12pm. While the election proper commenced at 1 pm. It was indeed, a very peaceful election with the results won by Chief Johnson Opone, generally accepted by all.
Similarly, the office of the First Vice President which was zoned to Ukwani Local Government Area was won by Chief Chiekem Daphey, an Engineer and community Leader from Obiaruku.
While Professor Mrs. Ogwu, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Delta State University, Abraka was voted into office as Woman Leader, Pastor Jonathan Dike, a Civil Servant with Ndokwa West Local Government Area, was returned unopposed as the Secretary General of the Organization. How Johnson Opone Emerged
Although the Ndokwa Neku Election was adjudged to be peaceful, some delegates assert that certain intrigues were believed to have played out to propel chief Johnson Opone into the exalted office as the President General of the apex Ndokwa socio-cultural organization.
Some delegates to the election who spoke to Oasis Magazine’s correspondent on the conditions of anonymity claimed that Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, may have had more that casual interest in who emerges the socio-cultural leader of Ndokwa nation.
The delegates opined that extra-ordinary efforts to project Johnson Opone may have taken effect during the accreditation of delegates for the election. They argued that the accreditation of delegates list was wrongfully compiled in only one master list which took too much time for the accreditation to be completed and as a result, all the delegates could not be accredited to vote before voting commenced at 1:pm,
They further noted that it was more than mere coincidence that the delegates registered by Chief Johnson Opone were accredited first, while delegates registered by other contestants, especially the delegates registered by Chief Kaine, whom they believed was the most popular of all the contestants, were accredited last, by the election umpires.
This anomaly, they asserted, resulted to a situation whereby a lot of delegates registered by other contestants could not be accredited before voting started at 1:pm.
They also alleged that when accreditation was also going on, and non accredited delegates were banned from entering the reserved voting centre, a number of SUV Vehicles with dark tinted glasses where allowed to ferry in V.I.Ps and some unaccredited delegates into the voting certain and these may have been to the advantage of the candidate who has been programmed to win the election. Task Before Opone’s NNU
Ndokwa Neku Union has largely been perceived as a toothless bulldog which has been unable to summon adequate courage and authority to organize and aggregate Ndokwa nation and represent it’s social, cultural, political and economic development interests.
During the tenure of Prof. Steve Okecha, the apex organization was criticized for having a loud voice to shout, without any tooth to bite. However the efforts of Pharmacist Enebeli, the immediate past President-General went along the same powerless path as the effort made by the organization then to sanction politicians who were found wanting for their failure to support an Ndokwa son for Governor in 2015 election, was unsuccessful.
As the new exco led by Chief Johnson Opone comes on board, Ndokwa people still insist that the apex body must be proactive in uniting the people and communities of the three Local Government Areas, aggregating their collective interests and opinions and ensuring that such interests and opinions are effectively promoted and protected to bring about a new era of Ndokwa nation, where it would get its fair share of development from the Commonwealth of Delta State in particularly and the federation of Nigeria in general. New Interest In Ndokwa
It is noteworthy that Ndokwa people are demonstrating stronger interest in the affairs of the apex body and the great level of participation of the people, including contestants, delegates and observers in the last delegates conference that ushered in a new executive body for the organization, are strong indications that a new dawn is setting for Ndokwa nation.
In the last (2015) Gubernatorial election, Deltans watched with utmost envy as Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), the umbrella organization of Urhobo ethnic nation in Delta State, fought with zeal and patriotism as the leadership battled to ensure that an Urhobo man emerges the governor of Delta State.
However, notwithstanding the fact that the Urhobo for Governor 2015 project did not materialize, it is obvious that the UPU achieved great milestones in uniting Urhobo people politically and the organization also succeeded optimally in raising the political profile of Urhobo nation in Delta State and Nigeria in general.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta CP, Zanna Mohammed Ibrahim
The Delta state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Zanna Mohammed Ibrahim has assured that the Command is currently re-strategizing its policing methods to be ahead of criminals at all times, saying that the Police Command under his watch will do everything possible to tackle all security challenges in the state.
CP Zanna Ibrahim, who said this at his maiden press briefing on Saturday, June 18, 2016, at the police headquarters in Asaba, warned criminals in the state to have a change of heart, as operatives of the Command have been directed to smoke out criminals from their hide outs in any part of the state.
While calling on members of the public to serve as whistle blowers by reporting crimes within their environment to the police, he advised the citizenry to refrain from activities that are capable of causing break down of law and order in any community.
The Commissioner who promised to checkmate the excesses and unethical conduct of some policemen, said he would not tolerate indiscipline and disrespect to public order among the rank and file.
He however thanked the state governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for the continued support his administration has been rendering to the police Command and advised the people of the state to be constructive in their criticisms and suggestions as well as pursue their issues legally.
Speaking on the case of Mrs Nkechi Chukwurah, the Chairman of Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State, who escaped death by the whiskers after one of her security aides simply identified as David opened fire on her at close range, the Commissioner explained that from interrogation and subsequent investigation, the acttion of the policeman was not delierate or a case of assassination attempt but a case of misconduct as the rifle may have been on rapid, making it to expend all ammunition loaded in it.
On the menace of Fulani herdsmen, CP Zanna Ibrahim said a wholistic approach
would be devised to curtail the situation, which was not peculiar to Delta state, adding that his Command recognizes the sanctity of life, hence no religion allows the killing of humans, no matter the level of provocation.
The Commissioner of police, who said the Command has rescued several kidnapped victims, recovered arms and ammunition, motor vehicles among others, later paraded several criminal suspects, including armed robbers, a police impersonator and an incestuous father who had carnal knowledge of her 14 years old twin daughters since 2010.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA– Mr. Patrick Ukah, Delta Information Commissioner & representative of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa (left)) and Rev. Omatsola Williams, Commissioner for Women Affairs
Delta state Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has expressed the state government’s commitment towards the promotion and protection of of the rights of every child in the state, as enshrined in the Child’s Right Law 2009.
Governor Okowa said this during the commemoration of the 2016 International Day of the African Child, held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba on Thursday, June 16, 2016.
The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah said being mindful of the many challenges arising from several centres of conflict across the African continent, the state government has been involved in organizing workshops, seminars, retreats, camps and the participation of nongovernmental organizations in community education on children’s rights, protection and responsibilities.
“I guess you all know my keen interest on issues concerning children. I take pride in assuring you of my full participation in all your matters at all times.”
While appealing to stakeholders to ensure that children’s rights are constantly protected, he urged them to continue with the education and enlightenment on children’s rights and responsibilities, including the right to life and development.
“Our focus should always be on children’s right to life and the commitment of all towards their survival, protection and provision of basic needs such as food, potable water, sanitation, health, shelter and education.”
He noted that despite resistance among some community members who have negative setbacks are in efforts to ensure child survival, the state government is working tirelessly towards issues of child survival and protection, through the provision of Vitamin A supplement for children between ages 0-6 years, PMTCT programme and community education on child protection.
He however advised children to always identify their rights and protect them without overstepping their bounds, just as he called on communities, civil society and the private sector to partner with the state government to ensure the survival of the African child.
In her welcome address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, Rev. Mrs. Omatsola Williams, expressed confidence in the efforts of the Delta state government in improving the lives of children through various policies.
Highpoint of the event was the rendition of poems and songs by school children, as well as the clarion call by members of the Delta state Children’s Parliament who expressed worry over several cases of abuse on children across Africa, which include forced marriages, child soldiering and labour among other violence and crimes against children.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Gov. Okowa (left) and his Deputy, Kingsley Otuaro on their knees in prayer
Irked by the dwindling revenue accruing to the state due to the excessive damage on oil and gas installations by renewed militant attacks in the Niger Delta region, Governor Ifeanyi Governor, Okowa has gone to seek God’s intervention, as he expressed confidence in the ability of God to change the fortunes of the country for good.
According to the Governor who spoke at a special prayer session for God’s intervention in the Niger Delta crisis, “there is nothing that is impossible before God and through His Holy book, the Bible, He made us to know that what we ask of Him, He will grant us.”
The prayer session was organized by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), South South region in conjunction with Delta State chapter at the Christ’s Missionary Crusaders Church, Warri for God to save the situation in Niger Delta which has led to heavy military presence in the area with the country losing a lot of oil revenue.
Governor Okowa spoke through his Special Assistant, Special Duties, Barr. Tareri Avwomakpa.
“I thank CAN for its concern for the situation of things in the country; we need to pray because, our God does not sleep, our God hears prayers and we know that with prayers, He can change positively beyond our imagination the current situation of things in the region and our country,” he said, adding, “Christians are known for their peaceful dispositions to issues, it is good that we apply peaceful means in whatever we do to enable us achieve success, we should always give room for dialogue and avoid destruction of things that keeps us as one.”
The Governor asserted, “I believe in the efficacy of prayers, when we call on our God, He will answer us.”
Also recall that during his ongoing commissioning and inspection of projects in parts of Delta state, Governor Okowa observed that, “Recently, our revenue dropped remarkably as a result of the bombing of oil facilities, it is time for us to give peace a chance, we cannot continue to destroy ourselves in the course of our anger, we need to stop pipeline bombings, we need to stop all vices because, a lot of investors are coming to our state and we need conducive environment, peaceful environment to encourage them.
“I use this occasion to passionately appeal to Deltans to shun any form of social vices, especially, bombing of oil facilities, such actions does not portray the state in good light before investors who are eager to do business in the state.”
Supply disruptions caused by a string of attacks by the Niger Delta Avengers militant group in Nigeria had brought the oil exporter’s production to the lowest in 20 years.
The Minister of State for Petroleum, Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, said output had dropped to between 1.5 and 1.6 million barrels per day from 2.2 million bpd at the start of the year.
However, Kachikwu expressed hope that the dialogue would yield positive results and get Nigeria back to maximum production as the country was currently producing about 1.6mbpd, about 600,000 barrels, short of the 2.2mbpd production target of the 2016 budget.
Meanwhile, the Niger Delta Avengers has agreed to sheath its swords for dialogue, after series of plea by Nigerians, interest groups, the Federal Government and the International Community, but with some conditions which include, the re-establishment of the Nigerian Maritime University in Okerenkoko in Delta State and the immediate implementation of the report of the 2014 National Conference report, among others. ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 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 alleged fraud in contract award, with a call on a serving APC Governor in the South South to call his UK based son to order.
An online report had accused the NAPIMS boss of a fraud in a $260 Million “illegal” contracts.
He was also accused of engaging in shady acts by frustrating the development of the local content act and doing things in favour of his mediocre cronies who were incompetent to handle jobs. According to the online report, “by engaging in such shady acts, Dafe allegedly acquired stupendous wealth comprising expensive properties in Sugarland Texas, ( US).
But in a press statement signed by its President, Nelly Emma; Secretary, John Sailor and Public Relations Officer, Stanley Mukoro, the group said that the $260 Million contract followed due process, saying that some elements,including a son of a serving Governor were just out to tarnish the good image of the NAPIMS boss.
According to the group; “Those behind the sponsored online report of June 14,2015 are not telling the whole world the truth. The award of this said contract followed due process and it is not true that NAPIMS allegedly approved the $260M contracts illegally.”
The group added that; “To the best of our knowledge, due process was followed by NAPIMS in the award of the Contracts.”
On the allegation that Mr Dafe was frustrating the local content act, the group said that;”Without NAPIMS, it would have been very difficult for Nigerian local contractors to be awarded contracts. The allegation that NAPIMS approved the $260M contracts illegally is unacceptable to us and the entire people of the oil-rich Niger Delta region.”
According to the group also, “There are no illegalities in the contract and it is not true that somebody in NAPIMS just sat on his table and nominated companies to execute the contract without any tendering process and without approval by the NNPC’s Board and Group Executive Committee (GEC). Due process was followed and somebody should not give the NAPIMS boss, Mr Dafe a bad name and mislead the public.”
“We know those behind this malicious online report aimed at rubbishing the good reputation of the Group General Manager of NAPIMS,” the group stated and alleged that a son of a serving APC Governor in one of the States in the South South Region and others were behind the unfounded allegations against the NAPIMS boss.
“We want to appeal to this serving APC Governor in one of the states in the South South Region to call his UK based son to order for his actions against the NAPIMS boss, Mr Dafe Sejebor who is doing a great job”, the group said.
The group added:” The Governor’s son and his co-travellers should be investigated by the NNPC and dealt with, otherwise this will weaken the morale of NNPC that is doing a great job for Nigerian local contractors and also fighting for a better deal 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”.
The group added “It is on this note that we want to give the NAPIMS boss, Mr Dafe Sejebor a clean bill of health over the $260 Million contracts. The NAPIMS boss should be given a pat on the back for the promotion of the Nigerian Local Content and not condemnation, this is not acceptable and the general public should ignore all the false allegations against the NAPIMS boss. ”
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
DELTA State Council of National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has raised alarm over plans by the Chairman of Udu local government area, Hon. Solomon Kpomah to cause crisis in the state.
Chairman of the state council of the Union, Chief Ifeanyi Obi disclosed in a chat with newsmen that the situation in the area if not urgently addressed could lead to serious security breach.
According to him, “the situation in Udu Council area is very bad at the moment, the Council chairman has taken over the activities of our Union and has gone further to print fake tickets of our union saying, he is in charge and nobody can control him.”
“We made the Police to intervene but the chairman chased the Police men away, with the simple reason that nobody can tell him how to run the affairs of the local government,” Chief Obi said, adding, “why we are saying this is because, our members are angry, the chairman is threatening them and if the situation continues as it is, nobody knows what will happen because, the Council chairman has mobilized thugs but, we want peace, we don’t want fight, nothing can be achieved with fight.”
Chief Obi stated, ‘it is unfortunate that our Governor, Senator Okowa intervened in this issue in the past, we respect our Governor and we are ready to do what he tells us, but, the Chairman is disobeying the Governor, he is saying he can do whatever he likes and the situation is not good at all, we don’t want security problem at all in the state, but, we will not accept situation where he will brazenly insult our Governor.”
“We don’t know what he stands to gain if there is trouble in his local government, we are begging Governor Okowa to intervene in this issue, the country does not require that anybody should wake up in the morning and be searching for who he will fight with and if he continues with the way he is going, we don’t know what will happen because, he cannot deprive our people from carrying out their lawful duties, and be insulting those in authority,” Chief Obi said.
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Delta State Commissioner for Information and former President of Nigeria Hockey Federation, Mr. Patrick Ukah, has described the death of Nigeria Football Federation’s Technical Director and Ex-Super Eagles Coach, Shaibu Amodu, three days after that of ex-national team coach, Stephen Keshi, as a colossal loss and setback to the country’s football growth.
Ukah, who lamented the sad development, expressed sadness over the passage of the Nigerian football legend, said football lovers, ex-players and Nigerians in general would miss the man who has coached the national team more times than any other coach in history.
“These deaths are too many and too big to bear for Nigerians. We have suddenly been thrown into mourning again. The big bosses of football are riding home too fast. Well they have set the stage for others to grow in football. Their legendary legacies are forever and they would be remembered for their thrives and triumphs,” Ukah said.
Amodu Shaibu, 58, died in the early hours of Saturday, barely three days after the death of former Super Eagles Coach, Stephen Keshi.
Recall that Ukah expressed shock over the death of his friend and former international football player and Nigeria’s Super Eagles Head Coach Stephen Okechukwu Chinedu Keshi, saying that he would be greatly missed at home in Delta state and Nigeria, considering his immense contribution to sports development.
“My friend, my brother, Nwa Oti Onu Mkpologwu Illah, Nwa Oshimili, Nwaoboshi Ibuzor, Nwanem.
“It is unbelievable!
“I knew it was going to be difficult when Kate left this world to the great beyond. Now, you’ve slept in the bosom of the Lord away from the troubles of the World. We’ll miss you. I’ll miss you.
“I will miss you. Delta State will miss you. Nigeria will miss you. But your memories would linger for life, until we meet to part no more.
“Rest in peace Stephen Okechukwu Chinedu Keshi — the legendary Skippo, the Big Boss of Nigerian Football.
“You deserve a title in your honour. So long nwanem.
It could be recalled that Keshi died of cardiac arrest in the early hours of Wednesday in Benin City, Edo state.
The former international football player and coach had lost his wife of 35 years, Kate, last year after a prolonged battle with cancer.
He is survived by four children and his mother.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Osadenis Mixed Secondary School, Asaba lifted the trophy in the Male category in the grand finale of the 18th Nestlé Milo Secondary School Basketball Championship on Saturday at the Indoor Hall of the Asaba Township Stadium, Delta.
(Asaba, June 11, 2016)– Osadenis Mixed Secondary School. Asaba, Delta on Saturday in the male category won the trophy at the 18th Nestlé Milo Secondary School Basketball Championship grand finale in Asaba.
Delta boys defeated Government Secondary School, Karu, FCT by 57 to 49 points to pick the trophy.
Also in the female category finals, Wesley Senior Girls Secondary School, Lagos lifted the trophy by defeating St. Jude Girls Secondary School, Amarafa, Bayelsa in a keenly contested game.Wesley Senior Girls Secondary School, Lagos lifted the trophy in the Girls category in the grand finale of the 18th Nestlé Milo Secondary School Basketball Championship on Saturday at the Indoor Hall of the Asaba Township Stadium, Delta.
Lagos took the lead in the fourth and final quarter of the game beating Bayelsa with 30 to 29 points in the championship.
In his address, Mr Femi Akintola, Category Manager-Beverages, Nestle Nigeria PLC, said no fewer than 9,000 schools participated in the competition nationwide in both male and female categories.
He noted that this was the first time the championship was held outside Lagos, adding that the brand has through the championship supported over one million school children in the country.
“We are number one supporter of grassroots sports.
“This is because we believe that children who are physically active in exercise and sports are less likely to be obese.
“And engaging in sports provide good opportunities for interacting with others and thereby learning important life skills such as determination, confidence, discipline and teamwork,” he said.
He expressed hope that this championship would produce new champions in both males and females categories.
While thanking the Delta Government for the support, he called for partnership and support to grow the grassroots sports in the country.
On his part, the Delta Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Chiedu Ebie, lauded the company for chosen the state, adding that the state government was looking forward to discovering new talents.
“Our governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa is a lover of sports and we will as a state continue to support sports development in the state,” he said.
Malam Mohammed Ibrahim, President, Nigeria School Sports Federation thanked Nestlé fir the championship and expressed hope that with this, the country would in the near future champion basketball in the world.
He challenge government from all strata to give support to grassroots sports by building sports facilities in schools and partnering the agencies and stakeholders in the project of building young talents.
According to Ibrahim, Milo has champion and sustained basketball competitions in the country for the past 20 years and should be encouraged to bring out the talents in the children.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
President Muhammadu Buhari submitted these 47 names of ‘the career diplomats’ who will head Nigeria’s missions abroad when confirmed by the Senate, led by Senate President Bukola Saraki.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – President Bihari
Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari may have been diagnosed with cancer, sources at the Royal Hospital London, where he reportedly underwent medical check-up reveal.
A source said: “President Buhari went for check-up hours after he arrived in London. The hospital has discovered the cause of Mr President’s illness to be cancer of the ear and brain. Let us start praying.”
Before his trip to the UK on Monday (June 6) on a 10-day vacation, his Spokesman Femi Adesina had said, “During the holiday, he will see an E.N.T. specialist for a persistent ear infection. The President was examined by his Personal Physician and an E.N.T Specialist in Abuja and was treated. Both Nigerian doctors recommended further evaluation purely as a precaution.”
*Courtesy: News Express
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
Inspite of moves by the Federal Government to dialogue withe the Niger Delta Avengers and having ordered a Military ceacefire, the feared militant group has sustained its attack on oil and gas installations in the impoverished Niger Delta region of Nigeria.
The Niger Delta Avengers again on Wednesday, June 08, 2016, claimed it had blown up another oil well.
The group equally said it was not negotiating with the Federal Government.
In two tweets on its Twitter handle in the early hours of Wednesday, the NDA said it blew up Well RMP 20 belonging to Chevron Oil.
It said in the first tweet: “At 1:00am today, the @NDAvengers blow up Well RMP 20 belonging to Chevron located 20 meters away from Dibi flow Stattion in Warri North LGA.”
The second tweet on negotiation with the Federal Government, said the group was not aware of any.
It said if anyone was negotiating with the Federal Government, it was not on behalf of the group.
It tweeted: “This is to the Gen. public we’re not negotiating with any Committee. if Fed Govt is discussing wth any group they’re doing that on their own.”
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Delta state born former Nigeria’s Super Eagles Head Coach, Stephen Okechukwu Chinedu Keshi, is dead.
Keshi, who hails from Illah in Oshimili North local government area of Delta state, was said to have suddenly died of cardiac arrest in the early hours of Wednesday in Benin City, Edo state. He was scheduled to return to the United States on Wednesday evening.
The former international football player and coach had lost his wife of 35 years, Kate, last year after a prolonged battle with cancer.
A member of his family as well as one of his close associates were said to have confirmed his dhave.
“He was not ill at all, never showed any signs of illness, but we suspect he never got over the death of his wife,” a friend said.
He is survived by four children and his mother.
Keshi, the only Nigerian coach to have won the Africa Cup of Nations, achieved a rare feat in 2013 by becoming only the second person to win the trophy both as a player and a coach.
The only other person to have achieved the feat is Egypt’s Mahmoud El-Gohary.
Keshi, a product of St. Finbarr’s College, Akoka, Lagos, started his playing career at a very young age at ACB Football Club, and later played for New Nigeria Bank, Stade d’Abidjan, Africa Sports, Lokeren, Anderlecht, RC Strasbourg, and a host of other clubs.
He represented Nigeria from 1982, at age 20, till 1994, most of the time captaining the Super Eagles and scoring vital goals from his position as a central defender.
He also coached Togo and Nigeria at the World Cup, as well as Mali.
Keshi, nicknamed the “Big Boss” for his leadership skills, is the fifth member of the all-conquering 1994 team to die, following Uche Okafor, Thompson Oliha, Rashidi Yekini and Wilfred Agbonavbare.
‘He has found rest’
Meanwhile, the family has released a statement announcing his death.
The statement signed by Emmanuel Ado was titled: “Stephen Keshi CON has gone to be with his wife”.
“With thanksgiving to God, the Ogbuenyi Fredrick Keshi family of Illah in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, announces the death of Mr. Stephen Okechukwu Chinedu Keshi,” Ado wrote.
“Our son, brother, father, father-in-law,brother-in-law, has gone to be with his wife of 35 years (Nkem), Mrs. Kate Keshi, who passed on on the 9th December 2015.
“Since her death, Keshi has been in mourning. He came back to Nigeria to be with her. He had planned to fly back today Wednesday, before he suffered a cardiac arrest. He has found rest.
“We thank God for his life.
“We want to ask for understanding in this very difficult time for the family.”
Keshi Was A Great Patriot, Achiever― Okowa
Meanwhile, Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has described the sudden demise of former Super Eagles Player and Coach, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi as tragic and a monumental loss to football in Nigeria, Africa and the entire world.
The Governor in a tribute and condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu, extolled the leadership qualities and sterling contributions of the former Super Eagles Captain and Coach to the growth and development of football in Nigeria and Africa.
According to Governor Okowa, the sterling contributions of Stephen Keshi to the development of football in Nigeria and Africa is legendary, commendable and worthy of emulation as a great patriot and achiever having led Nigeria to win the African Nations Cup twice as a player and Coach.
Okowa said: “On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I commiserate with the family of the late Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, and the entire football loving fans in Nigeria over the demise of the late Super Eagles former Captain and Coach.
“The remarkable achievements recorded by the Nigeria Super Eagles in 1994 and 2013 were unarguably due to his indefatigable role as the Captain and Coach of the Super Eagles in those glorious years culminating in the winning of the African Nations Cup.
“Delta State and indeed Nigerians has lost a great man whose contributions to the football world can best be described as legendary”.
“He will be sorely missed by all and sundry whose lives he affected in several ways. I therefore urge all who mourn the demise of Stephen Keshi to take solace in the fact that his was a life of great accomplishments and service to humanity in which we give thanks to the Almighty God for the indelible footprints of his achievements in the sands of time.”
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The Delta State House of Assembly has suspended one of its members over alleged legislative misconduct.
Hon. Reuben Izeze, the representative of Ughelli South state constituency, was suspended for three months for bringing the House to disrepute.
The Majority Leader of the House, Hon Tim Owhefere moved the motion on the floor of the House on Tuesday, June 07, 2016.
Majority Leader, Hon. Tim Owhefere had stood up to inform the House of a matter which, he said, borders on the dignity of the legislature. Pointing out that the Assembly is greatly concerned about maintaining the dignity of the legislature and by implication that of the law maker, he said “A situation in which lawmakers are called Honourable members but we act in dishonourable manner leaves much to be desired.”
While not giving details of what constituted a dishonourable behaviour involving Mr. Izeze, Owhefere said: “An attempt to bring the dignity of this House to disrepute by Reuben Izeze, therefore, I move that this honourable house do now suspend Hon. Reuben Izeze, representing Ughelli South for three months.”
The motion was seconded by the Minority Leader, Hon. Okoh Festus, (Ika South), and when the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Monday Igbuya put the question the ayes had it and the Speaker declared that Reuben Izeze is hereby suspended for three months with immediate effect.
“He is hereby suspended for a period of three months” the Speaker, Rt. Hon Monday Igbuya said during the plenary on Tuesday.
However, sources close to Mr. Igbuya hinted that Izeze’s suspension may not be unconnected with a recent failed impeachment plot against Mr Igbuya and the leadership of the House.
Recall that Mr. Igbuya survived an impeachment which was masterminded by Izeze but save for the quick intervention of the state governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa.
In another development, the House recalled the suspended chairman of Ndokwa East Local Government Area, Mrs. Nkechi Chukwura.
Also recall that the Deputy Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Friday Osanebi, was alleged to have. masterminded and sponsored the earlier suspension of the council Chairman, Mrs. Nkechi Chukwurah, alleging that she was running the finances of the local government council secretly and awarding contracts without due process.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
The interim national executive committee of the Congress of United People of Niger Delta (CUPOND), has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to consider withdrawal of warships and fighter jets from creeks in the Niger Delta, as a proactive approach towards the restoration of peace and full economic activities in the region.
The group in a statement by its Natonal Organising Secretary, Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe said the call has become necessary because of the innocent people and children that may be killed in the process of exchange of fire power between the militants, particularly the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), the Igbesu Boys Confraternity (IBC) and federal forces.
CUPOND said it will be more cheaper to negotiate with the militants than for the nation to lose N10.5billion daily as a result of the wanton destruction and vandalization of oil installations.
“We hereby appeal to the Avengers and other vexed groups to dialogue with the federal government and embrace peace. President Muhammadu Buhari has demonstrated sufficient political will power and excellent leadership qualities that suggests positive ability to effectively and prudently manage the resources of this Nation for the good of all Nigerians.
“We do not think that full blown military incursion will restore lasting peace and active economic activities in the region. We are not in support of renewed violence but government must employ result oriented strategies to quell the crisis and move the nation forward.
“Full military action may end up as futile exercise and costly too, if the federal government chose not to negotiate with the Avengers. We believe that involvement of the governors of the Niger Delta region and political leaders will yield better and greater results than full military action.
“We strongly advise the federal government not to move the Maritime University from its present location because that in itself may provoke further internal tribal or ethnic war capable of wrecking complicated economic havoc capable of escalating into wanton destruction of oil installations, choice properties and lost of lives, and at the end it is the poor and innocent people that will suffer.
“The federal government may continue with the investigation of fraud in connection with the land acquired for the University and in the same token continue with the project and open the University for academic activities with full assurance from the host communities that students of the institution will enjoy peace and stable academic activities.”
CUPOND strongly believe that the Niger Delta is still grossly underdeveloped compared to the rapid development going on in Abuja and other major cities whereas the region produces wealth for the thirty six (36) states of the federation including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the statement added.
Recall that the federal government had deployed an armada of five warships, 100 gunboats and fighter jets to the creeks of the Niger Delta, in response to continued bombing of oil and gas pipelines by Niger Delta Avengers, NDA. This heightened tension in the coastal communities of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, even as helicopter gunships were seen hovering at low altitude in the predominantly riverine council. ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Boroh
Brigadier General Paul Boroh (Rtd) Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta and Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme has described the Clean-up of Ogoni as both an environmental and economic lifeline for the Niger Delta.
In his comments on the exercise which was flagged off by the Federal Government on Thursday in Ogoni, Rivers State, he said the Clean-up is the best thing to happen to the Region in many years. The Amnesty Programme Coordinator said long years of oil exploitation, spills and abandonment had made many parts of the Niger Delta unsafe for human habitation and economically, unviable.
He said apart from restoring the environment, the Clean- up will in the in short term lead to mass youth employment and revival of sustainable economic activities while on the long run, the people will return to their profession of farming and fishing.
General Boroh said the Clean-up will also greatly assist the Presidential Amnesty Programme to engage ex-agitators in sustainable employment adding that the exercise fits in perfectly with the Programmes’s current phase of sustainably integrating all the 30,000 beneficiaries of the Amnesty Programme.
He also said that the Clean-up will greatly enhance the Exit Strategy component of the Amnesty Programme which will free funds for the training and empowerment of more beneficiaries of the Programme, adding that the Clean-up was a major plank of agitations in the Niger Delta and that apart from it being the fulfillment of dreams, it is also an assurance that other polluted parts of the Region will be cleaned up.
He appealed to people, especially the youths in the Region to support the exercise and ensure the move is irreversible by shunning pipe line vandalism which can only lead to more spills. The Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta said grievances and disagreements are human, but that the means of resolving issues can either lead to positive results or further complication of matters.
General Boroh who stated that his experience in Peace Keeping at the level of United Nations taught him that all conflicts, no matter how long they take, end up at the negotiation table, urged all groups in the Region who have grievances to come forward, rather than resort to violence, destruction and degradation of the environment.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
Governor of oil rich Delta state, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has condemned the recent killing of Nigerian soldiers, and other civilians, who were on their legitimate assignments, in a houseboat attack, in Omadino, Warri South, Delta State, by suspected militants.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu, Governor Okowa noted that this killing was criminality carried too far as nothing justifies the taking of lives of uniformed security men who are out to protect the common property of Nigerians.
“Your activities could turn Delta state into a theatre of war and this portends great danger to the whole population aside from casting the image of the state as insecure and unfit for investment. We cannot, as a state, afford this rascality if we hope to make progress”, he said.
Governor Okowa, who recalled his earlier appeals on any aggrieved member of the society- including Niger Delta Militants, to embrace dialogue, observed that this informed the decision by his government to constitute an advocacy committee which went round the creeks and oil producing communities, in the last few weeks, to canvass support for a violence-free Delta- as a precondition for development.
Governor Okowa, who noted that no Society develops in an atmosphere of chaos and criminality and that no government would fold its hands in the face of this high level of aggravation and utter disregard for the sanctity of human lives, called on Deltans to rally round government to bring the perpetrators to book.
“For the umpteenth time, I wish to call on well meaning people of Delta State to speak up and not only condemn the activities of these militants but also offer their best counsel and commitment towards resolving this crisis”. Governor Okowa said.
He extended the condolences of his family and the people of Delta State to the families of the victims and prayed God to grant them eternal rest while urging the security agencies to ensure that the culprits do not go scot free.
Governor Okowa also advised members of the Niger Delta Avengers to embrace dialogue as a means of resolving the crisis, adding that a peaceful and Secured Delta is what is needed for development to thrive.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Mr. Patrick Ukah! Delta Information boss
Chairman of the Delta State Planning Committee on One Year In Office Anniversary of Governor Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa and Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, has commended the governor for successfully delivering on his electoral promises to Deltans.
Ukah stated this in Warri on Thursday during the ongoing inspection and commissioning of numerous roads and other mega projects in some parts the state, as part of activities to mark Governor Okowa’s one year in office anniversary.
He said that despite the present economic challenges, Governor Okowa has promised to sustain the pace of development of the state, through effective youth entrepreneurial engagements, fostering agricultural economy, infrastructure development in the education and health sectors as well as improved capital base for the state.
According to him, “The desire of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to transform Delta State is already yielding good fruits. This is a man who believes that the people he leads should come first in his priority list. He has even vowed to ensure that the policy gains of the SMART agenda matra are fully achieved and Deltans have testified to this rare feat exhibited by the governor during the inspection and commissioning exercises.”
The Information Commissioner said the landmark achievements recorded so far by the Okowa-led administration is very reassuring for Deltans that the dividends of true governance have just begun to set in, despite dwindling allocations that accrue to the state.
While commending Deltans for the warm receptions accorded the governor and his team as he transverses the state for the inspection and commissioning exercises, Ukah assured that there are budgetary provisions for more projects to be executed in all parts of the state.
“Okowa is a man who is totally detribalized and committed to growth of the entire state. I can assure you that the entire state is going to be linked up by roads for further economic development. Our plan is to basically touch on all local governments in Delta. If we can achieve these harvests of roads and other infrastructures in one year, what do you think about the remaining years?
“This government is focused and determined to deliver on its promises to the people, especially in terms of building on unity, peace and security.”
He therefore appealed to Deltans to complement the state government’s efforts by building confidence in government’s determination to improve the lots of the people and imbibing a maintenance culture to help preserve the numerous projects that have been executed for the benefit of all.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (right); the Immediate Past Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan (middle); Speaker, State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Monday Igbuya (left) and Other Dignitaries, during the Commissioning of Ogbemudein Model Secondary School Agbor, Ika-South Local Government Area, Delta State.
Claims that the alliance between the Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa and his predecessor in office, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan had ceased, may have been put to rest, as the duo, to the admiration of all and surprise of some, jointly commissioned projects at Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of the state on Tuesday, May 31, 2016.
The premises of Ogbemudein Model Secondary School, Agbor was charged, when Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan arrived to commission the school and its upgraded facilities, which Governor Okowa recalled, was started by former Governor Uduaghan’s administration.
According to him, “We must commend the immediate past Governor for starting the construction of these schools, though, only four of them have been completed at the moment, we hope to complete all and construct new ones.”
While assuring that he will consolidate on the projects initiated by his predecessors, Governor Okowa specifically, thanked former Governor Uduaghan for leaving the United Kingdom to attend the commissioning exercise, asserting, “it is my prayer and hope that one day, all the schools in Delta State will look like this edifice.”
On his part, former Governor Uduaghan at the occasion, eulogized Governor Okowa for his giant achievements within one year of being in office despite the huge economic challenges and commended the Governor for inviting him to commission projects as part of activities to mark his one year in office.
“I want to thank you (Governor Okowa) for inviting me to commission this project, I am happy that you did not abandon the project,” Dr Uduaghan renarked. Gov. Okowa unveiling the he plague during the commissioning.
Highpoint of the event was the official cutting of the tape by former Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan and unveiling by incumbent Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
In his speech, the Obi of Agbor, HRM Keagbokuzi I who spoke through Dr Emmanuel Tibi said they were excited that Governor Okowa had been able to manage the resources of the state to put in place such numerous projects in his Kingdom within one year.
Earlier in a welcome address, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education in the state, Mr Chiedu Ebie, said, “it is worthy of note to mention that though twelve of such legacy projects were embarked upon by the previous administration, only two could be completed before their exit; significantly, this administration took giant steps at ensuring the continuation of some of these projects and I make bold to state today that two similar projects have been duly completed and are now in use.”
Also, the commissioner for information; Hon Patrick Ukah who doubles as Chairman of the Planning Committee, in an interview explained what motivated the Okowa led administration to complete the project. According to him, the Governor had taken a resolve to ensure that there would be no abandoned projects from the past administration especially those nearing the 80% completion stage.
While applauding the zeal and enthusiasm of Governor Okowa, the Commissioner for Information said “It was like with every commissioning came an inward desire to go to the next one, never have I seen anyone to have such commitment and passion for work like his Excellency, I Speak for Deltans when I say truly he is a gift to us all.”
Governor Okowa had earlier, inspected the Construction of Alisimie-Ozanogogo Road as well as the dualization of Old Lagos Agbor Road, commissioned Orikeze Street, with a spur to Orikeze Close, Agbor, Upper Imudia/Dr Whyte Streets, Agbor.Ogbemudein Model Secondary School
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Dame Okowa commissioning the sickle cell clinic
Delta State First Lady and founder of 05 Initiative, Dame Evangelist (Mrs) Edith Okowa has formally commissioned an ultra-modern Sickle Cell Clinic at the Central Hospital, Oleh in Isoko South local government area of Delta state.
Dame Okowa, who was given a rousing welcome by elected and appointed Isoko women as well as wives of political appointees at the hospital premises on Monday, May 30, 2016 inspected the various equipment in the laboratory, which include Hematology auto analyzer, Haemoglobin electro phoresis and Hematocrit centrifuge provided by the 05 Initiative.
The elated wife of the state governor explained that the 05 Initiative was borne out of the passion to bring succour to sufferers of sickle cell anaemia with a determination to add value to the lives of the less privileged in the society, through the establishment of sickle cell centres in all Central Hospitals in the state.
While expressing joy that the state governor, Dr.Ifeanyi Okowa has approved the establishment of a standard referral centre at the General Hospital in Asaba, she described the 05 Initiative as a humanitarian and interventionist programme which draws its objectives from the Biblical book of Matthew 25: 35-36 with an obligation of “Changing our world, one person at a time.”
She admonished parents of carriers of sickle cell anaemia to adhere to medical advices and ensure that their children and wards know about their genotype and get bes medical treatment, even as the 05 Initiative engages on effective, intensive advocacy and enlightenment campaigns.
Dame Okowa commended the founder of Martha Charity, Chief Emmanuel Emoefe and othe notaboe Isoko sns and daughters for their magnanimous contribution towards the purchase of equipment and renovation of the sickle cell clinic.
In her talk, Justice Excel Timi, who donated hot water bottles to the 05 Initiative for onward distribution to sickle cell carriers.mentored them on the need to embrace God in the course of traveils, insisting that there is a high survival rate as a result of education and frequent enlightenment campaigns.
Earlier in her welcome speech, Director General of the 05 Initiative, Mrs. Oghenekevwe Agas, said the 05 Initiative was passion driven, having reached out to men and women of similar passion.
She revealed that the scheme was established to ensure that the survival rate of people with sickle cell disorder is higher, adding that the essence of the equipment at the clinic was to eradicate encumbrances faced by Survival Success People in accessing health facilities.
Dr. Mrs. Uche Okwe in her oral presentation spoke on the importance protein food to enhance growth and reduce risk.
The Zonal Medical Director, Dr. Ugbaja Christopher Amaechi, thanked the founder of 05 Initiative and her team for giving hope to people with Sickle cell disorder, urging the hospital authority to imbibe good maintenance culture in handling the hospital facilities.Dame Okowa with the children
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“We see that the greatest challenge lies with Nigeria. The arrears that Nigeria is owning is 694,000 dollars because there was no payment made between 2015 and 2016.
Because of the debt burden it carries, ECOWAS is now losing its credibility” –President of ECOWAS, Mr Marcel De Souza.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
The President of ECOWAS, Mr Marcel De Souza, has expressed frustration over the paucity of fund being experienced by the commission.
De Souza, a Béninoise, was speaking in Abuja last Thursday, when he led a delegation from the commission to a courtesy visit on the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs Khadijat Abba-Ibrahim.
He appealed to Nigeria and other member states to rescue the commission by paying up their outstanding levies.
“We have certain challenges that we are facing. The first is our financial situation that has become quite precarious.
“The situation is tied to the economic condition in the member states and the fact that the price of oil has dropped.
“The community levy which represents 90 per cent of our funding is no longer regularly paid by most member states; Nigeria is not alone in this regard, also Cote D’Ivoire,” he said.
He said that Cote D’Ivoire, Cape Verde and Senegal were major defaulters, but the greater challenge was Nigeria.
“We see that the greatest challenge lies with Nigeria. The arrears that Nigeria is owning is 694,000 dollars because there was no payment made between 2015 and 2016.
“Because of the debt burden it carries, ECOWAS is now losing its credibility,” the president said.
According to him, Transcorp Hilton where meeting of all Heads of State was held in 2015 had not been settled by the commission.
He added that the bills of peace building troop sent to Guinea Bissau and Mali were yet to be paid, stressing that peace would always come with a cost.
“So, we wish to see our credibility restored. We appeal to Nigeria that the outstanding bill between 2015 and 2016 be paid.
“Without Nigeria and without Nigeria’s contribution we will not be able to sustain our activities neither we will be able to restore our credibility,” he said.
The minister congratulated the president on his appointment, stressing that his vast experience would help in addressing the challenges of the commission.
She said that the issue of finance raised should be brought before President Muhammadu Buhari in as much that ECOWAS delegation would visit him latter.
She said that other issues raised would be discussed in due course.
The minister said that she would discuss the issue of accommodation raised earlier by the ECOWAS leader with her counterpart in the Federal Capital Territory.
She pledged to assist the commission to secure a guest house for its president through the FCT minister so that it would not incur further hotel bills.
According to her, the issue of security is a thing of general concern and that it is necessary that troops are paid on time to give them the incentives to fight terrorism.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
It is one year today since our administration came into office. It has been a year of triumph, consolidation, pains and achievements. By age, instinct and experience, my preference is to look forward, to prepare for the challenges that lie ahead and rededicate the administration to the task of fixing Nigeria. But I believe we can also learn from the obstacles we have overcome and the progress we made thus far, to help strengthen the plans that we have in place to put Nigeria back on the path of progress.
We affirm our belief in democracy as the form of government that best assures the active participation and actual benefit of the people.
Despite the many years of hardship and disappointment the people of this nation have proved inherently good, industrious tolerant, patient and generous.
The past years have witnessed huge flows of oil revenues. From 2010 average oil prices were $100 per barrel. But economic and security conditions were deteriorating. We campaigned and won the election on the platform of restoring security, tackling corruption and restructuring the economy. on our arrival, the oil price had collapsed to as low as $30 per barrel and we found nothing had been kept for the rainy day. Oil prices have been declining since 2014 but due to the neglect of the past, the country was not equipped to halt the economy from declining.
The infrastructure, notably rail, power, roads were in a decrepit state. all the four refineries were in a state of disrepair, the pipelines and depots neglected.
Huge debts owed to contractors and suppliers had accumulated. twenty-seven states could not pay salaries for months. in the north-east, Boko Haram had captured 14 local governments, driven the local authorities out, hoisted their flags. Elsewhere, insecurity was palpable; corruption and impunity were the order of the day. In short, we inherited a state near collapse.
On the economic front, all oil dependent countries, Nigeria included, have been struggling since the drop in prices. many oil rich states have had to take tough decisions similar to what we are doing. The world, Nigeria included has been dealing with the effects of three significant and simultaneous global shocks starting in 2014:
A 70% drop in oil prices.
Global growth slowdown.
Normalization of monetary policy by the United States federal reserve.
Our problems as a government are like that of a farmer who in a good season harvests ten bags of produce. The proceeds enable him to get by for rest of the year. However, this year he could only manage 3 bags from his farm. He must now think of other ways to make ends meet.
From day one, we purposely set out to correct our condition, to change Nigeria. We reinforced and galvanized our armed forces with new leadership and resources. We marshaled our neighbours in a joint task force to tackle and defeat Boko Haram. By the end of December 2015, all but pockets and remnants had been routed by our gallant armed forces. Our immediate focus is for a gradual and safe return of internally displaced persons in safety and dignity and for the resumption of normalcy in the lives of people living in these areas.
EFCC was given the freedom to pursue corrupt officials and the judiciary was alerted on what Nigerians expect of them in the fight against corruption. On the economy, in particular foreign exchange and fuel shortages, our plan is to save foreign exchange by fast tracking repair of the refineries and producing most of our fuel requirements at home. And by growing more food in Nigeria, mainly rice, wheat and sugar we will save billions of dollars in foreign exchange and drastically reduce our food import bill.
We resolved to keep the Naira steady, as in the past, devaluation had done dreadful harm to the Nigerian economy. Furthermore, I supported the monetary authority’s decision to ensure alignment between monetary policy and fiscal policy. We shall keep a close look on how the recent measures affect the Naira and the economy. But we cannot get away from the fact that a strong currency is predicated on a strong economy. And a strong economy pre-supposes an industrial productive base and a steady export market. The measures we must take, may lead to hardships. The problems Nigerians have faced over the last year have been many and varied. But the real challenge for this government has been reconstructing the spine of the Nigerian state. The last twelve months have been spent collaborating with all arms of government to revive our institutions so that they are more efficient and fit for purpose:
That means a bureaucracy better able to develop and deliver policy
That means an independent judiciary, above suspicion and able to defend citizen’s rights and dispense justice equitably.
That means a legislature that actually legislates effectively and
Above all; that means political parties and politicians committed to serving the nigerian people rather than themselves.
These are the pillars of the state on which democracy can take root and thrive. But only if they are strong and incorruptible. Accordingly, we are working very hard to introduce some vital structural reforms in the way we conduct government business and lay a solid foundation on which we can build enduring change.
An important first step has been to get our housekeeping right. So we have reduced the extravagant spending of the past. We started boldly with the treasury single account, stopping the leakages in public expenditure.
We then identified forty-three thousand ghost workers through the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information system. That represents pay packets totalling N4.2 billion stolen every month. In addition, we will save Twenty-Three Billion Naira per annum from official travelling and sitting allowances alone.
Furthermore, the efficiency unit will cut costs and eliminate duplications in ministries and departments. Every little saving helps. The reduction in the number of ministries and work on restructuring and rationalization of the MDAs is well underway. When this work is complete we will have a leaner, more efficient public service that is fit for the purpose of changing nigeria for the good and for good.
As well as making savings, we have changed the way public money is spent. In all my years as a public servant, I have never come across the practice of padding budgets. I am glad to tell you now we not only have a budget, but more importantly, we have a budget process that is more transparent, more inclusive and more closely tied to our development priorities than in the recent past. 30% of the expenditure in this budget is devoted to capital items. Furthermore, we are projecting non-oil revenues to surpass proceeds from oil. Some critics have described the budget exercise as clumsy. Perhaps. But it was an example of consensus building, which is integral to democratic government. In the end we resolved our differences.
We have, therefore, delivered significant milestones on security, corruption and the economy. In respect of the economy, I would like to directly address you on the very painful but inevitable decisions we had to make in the last few weeks specifically on the pump price of fuel and the more flexible exchange rate policy announced by the central bank. It is even more painful for me that a major producer of crude oil with four refineries that once exported refined products is today having to import all of its domestic needs. This is what corruption and mismanagement has done to us and that is why we must fight these ills.
As part of the foundation of the new economy we have had to reform how fuel prices had traditionally been fixed. This step was taken only after protracted consideration of its pros and cons. After comprehensive investigation my advisers and I concluded that the mechanism was unsustainable.
We are also engaged in making recoveries of stolen assets some of which are in different jurisdictions. The processes of recovery can be tedious and time consuming, but today I can confirm that thus far: significant amount of assets have been recovered. A considerable portion of these are at different stages of recovery. Full details of the status and categories of the assets will now be published by the Ministry of Information and updated periodically. When forfeiture formalities are completed these monies will be credited to the treasury and be openly and transparently used in funding developmental projects and the public will be informed.
On the Niger Delta, we are committed to implementing the United Nations Environment Programme report and are advancing clean-up operations. I believe the way forward is to take a sustainable approach to address the issues that affect the delta communities. Re-engineering the amnesty programmes is an example of this. The recent spate of attacks by militants disrupting oil and power installations will not distract us from engaging leaders in the region in addressing Niger Delta problems. If the militants and vandals are testing our resolve, they are much mistaken. We shall apprehend the perpetrators and their sponsors and bring them to justice.
The policy measures and actions taken so far are not to be seen as some experiment in governance. We are fully aware that those vested interests who have held Nigeria back for so long will not give up without a fight. They will sow divisions, sponsor vile press criticisms at home and abroad, incite the public in an effort to create chaos rather than relinquish the vice-like grip they have held on Nigeria.
The economic misfortune we are experiencing in the shape of very low oil prices has provided us with an opportunity to restructure our economy and diversify. We are in the process of promoting agriculture, livestocks, exploiting our solid mineral resources and expanding our industrial and manufacturing base. That way, we will import less and make the social investments necessary to allow us to produce a large and skilled workforce.
Central Bank of Nigeria will offer more fiscal incentives for business that prove capable of manufacturing products that are internationally competitive. We remain committed to reforming the regulatory framework, for investors by improving the ease of doing business in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the first steps along the path of self-sufficiency in rice, wheat and sugar – big users of our scarce foreign exchange – have been taken. The Labour Intensive Farming Enterprise will boost the economy and ensure inclusive growth in long neglected communities. Special intervention funds through the Bank of Agriculture will provide targeted support. Concerns remain about rising cost of foods such as maize, rice, millet, beans and gari. Farmers tell me that they are worried about the cost of fertilizers, pesticides and the absence of extension services. The federal and state governments are on the same page in tackling these hurdles in our efforts at increased food production and ultimately food security.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation for the increasing role that our women are playing in revitalizing the agricultural sector. Modern farming is still hard and heavy work and I salute our Nigerian women in sharing this burden. In this respect I am very pleased to announce that the government will shortly be launching the national women’s empowerment fund, which I have approved to provide N1.6 billion in micro-finance loans to women across the nation to assist in rehabilitating the economies of rural communities, particularly those impacted by the insurgency and conflict.
With respect to solid minerals, the minister has produced a roadmap where we will work closely with the world bank and major international investors to ensure through best practices and due diligence that we choose the right partners. Illegal mining remains a problem and we have set up a special security team to protect our assets. Special measures will be in place to protect miners in their work environment.
For too long, ours has been a society that neglects the poor and victimises the weak. A society that promotes profit and growth over development and freedom. A society that fails to recognize that, to quote the distinguished economist Amartya Sen “ poverty is not just lack of money. It is not having the capability to realize one’s full potential as a human being.”
So, today, I am happy to formally launch, by far the most ambitious social protection programme in our history. A programme that both seeks to start the process of lifting many from poverty, while at the same time creating the opportunity for people to fend for themselves. In this regard, Five Hundred Billion Naira has been appropriated in the 2016 budget for social intervention programmes in five key areas. We are committed to providing job creation opportunities for five hundred thousand teachers and one hundred thousand artisans across the nation. 5.5 million children are to be provided with nutritious meals through our school feeding programme to improve learning outcomes, as well as enrolment and completion rates.
The conditional cash transfer scheme will provide financial support for up to one million vulnerable beneficiaries, and complement the enterprise programme – which will target up to one million market women; four hundred and sixty thousand artisans; and two hundred thousand agricultural workers, nationwide. Finally, through the education grant scheme, we will encourage students studying sciences, technology, engineering and maths, and lay a foundation for human capital development for the next generation.
I would like to pay a special tribute to our gallant men and women of the armed forces who are in harm’s way so that the rest of us can live and go about our business in safety. Their work is almost done. The nation owes them a debt of gratitude.
Abroad, we want to assure our neighbours, friends and development partners that Nigeria is firmly committed to democratic principles. We are ready partners in combating terrorism, cyber crimes, control of communicable diseases and protection of the environment. Following on the Paris Agreement, COP 21, we are fully committed to halting and reversing desertification. Elsewhere, we will intensify efforts to tackle erosion, ocean surge, flooding and oil spillage which I referred to earlier by implementing the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report.
We are grateful to the international community notably France, the US, UK and China for their quick response in helping to tackle the recent Ebola outbreak in our sub-region. We also acknowledge the humanity shown by the Italian and German governments in the treatment of boat people, many fleeing from our sub-region because of lack of economic opportunity. We thank all our partners especially several countries in the EU.
We appreciate the valuable work that the UN agencies, particularly UNICEF, ICRC, the World Food Program have been doing. We must also appreciate the World Bank, the Gates Foundation, the Global Fund and Educate A Child of Qatar for the excellent work in our health, education and other sectors.
Fellow citizens let me end on a happy note. To the delight of all, two of the abducted Chibok girls have regained their freedom. During the last one year, not a single day passed without my agonizing about these girls. Our efforts have centred around negotiations to free them safely from their mindless captors. We are still pursuing that course. Their safety is of paramount concern to me and I am sure to most Nigerians. I am very worried about the conditions those still captured might be in. Today I re-affirm our commitment to rescuing our girls. We will never stop until we bring them home safely. As I said before, no girl should be put through the brutality of forced marriage and every Nigerian girl has the right to an education and a life choice.
I thank you and appeal to you to continue supporting the government’s efforts to fix Nigeria.”
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
The Federal Government has appointed the Chief Executives of six information-related parastatals under the Ministry of Information and Culture.
The appointments were announced in Abuja on Wednesday by the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta State Governor, Senator, Ifeanyi Okowa (middle); Bishop Justus Mogekwu (2nd right) Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah (right); State PDP Chairman, Barr. Kingsley Esiso (2nd left) and Commissioner for Works, Chief James Augoye, during the Commissioning of Esenwa Street.
INSPITE of the present economic situation in Nigeria, the Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has said his administration was partnering with private investors to ensure speedy development of Asaba as a befitting state capital.
The Governor made the disclosure shortly after commissioning four roads and inspecting some of the on-going projects in Asaba on Thursday, May 26, 2016.
Roads that were commissioned include, extension of access road to the Orthopaedic Surgical Ward and the Doctors quarters at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC); Usonia Road, access road to Christ Embassy Church and the Esenwa Street all in Asaba and the inspection of the Cable Point road dualization and the Okpanam road dualization.
According to the Governor who spoke at the Palace of the Asagba of Asaba, Obi (Prof.) Chike Edozien, his administration was partnering with investors to develop the Delta Commercial City and the Delta SMART City, disclosing that the projects, when completed, would boost the socio-economic life of the people.
“I want to reassure Your Royal Majesty that we are going to remain focused; we are partnering with some investors to see how we can develop Asaba to become a befitting state capital; we have signed some MoUs (Memorandum of Understanding) on housing development while others are in the works,” he said.
He further stressed that his administration is developing the Delta Commercial City at the bridge head
“We have resolved all the issues hindering the construction and soon work will begin on this project, we will start the development of the Delta SMART City when we find the right partners to see it to fruition; the projects were part of the requests made by the Asagba-in-Council and the construction of road at the FMC was based on the fact that many Deltans make use of the facilities in the hospital.” He added.
Speaking on behalf of the Asagba, the Iyase of Asaba, Chief Patrick Onyeobi commended the developmental strides of Governor Okowa within his one year in office, describing him as a man who came into governance with a mind-set of what he will do for the people.
At the FMC where Governor Okowa commenced the commissioning of projects, mammoth crowd came out to receive him, singing his praises, saying that from his days as the Senator representing Delta North, his passion for the provision of adequate facilities at the FMC knew no bounds.
Chief Nicholas Chizea who spoke on behalf of the Asagba of Asaba at the venue said, “God endorsed what the Governor is doing that is why they are going on smoothly; the paucity of funds have not deterred the Governor from working for the development of the state.”
Also, the Delta state Commissioner for Information and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr. Patrick Ukah disclosed that the spate of development being experienced in the state is a true picture of the good mission and vision of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the state.
The Commissioner who commended Deltans for their cooperation with the state government thus far, assured them that the transparent policy initiatives of the Governor Okowa led administration is people driven, adding that the achievement recorded by the state governor within one year of his tenure would be sustained.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Deputy Corps Marshall, Operations, Mr. Chidi Nwachukwu (middle), Delta Sector Commander, Rindom Kumven 2nd left) and rep of Zonal (2nd ) flanmked on the extreme left and right by the Delta state Comptrollers of Immigration and Prisons Services respectively.
The Delta state Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), on Wednesday in Asaba, kick-started its week-long enlightenment campaign to enlighten against the use of expired and substandard tyres.
The Deputy Corps Marshall, Operations, Mr. Chidi Nwachukwu, who flagged-off the mega sensitization rally, tagged “Know Your Tyre” which held at the Benfiko Park, told motorists and members of the public that the campaign was to curb tyre burst and related road crashes.
Nwachukwu explained that all tyres have a four-year life span from the day of manufacture, urging motorist 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. For example, if the numbers are 0514, it means that the tyre was manufactured in fifth week of 2014.”
While advising drivers to maintain specified tyre pressure to improve vehicle safety and extend tyre life, he encouraged car owners to replace their tyres after covering a maximum of 80, 000 kilometres whether it has been used for four years or not.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Delta state Sector Commander of the FRSC, Mr. Rindom Kumven, said a survey carried out by the corps revealed a very disturbing trend of how motorists risk the lives of passengers by using worn-out tyres, tokunbo tyres and expired tyres.
“When it comes to vehicle safety, tyres are very important as they provide traction, basis movement and maneuverability and deadens the impact of vibration. FRSC carried out area wide survey on 2486 vehicles and 1024 tyres from 2011 to 2015,” he said.
Kumven said non-compliance with instruction on tyre; ignorance; control challenge; cost; and poor condition of the road and failed portions were the major reasons for the use of worn-out and expired tyres, according to the survey reports.
“In view of the above, FRSC organised a stakeholders’ forum on safe tyre usage and has embarked on public enlightenment on tyres nationwide. In this public enlightenment, free vehicle safety checks are carried out on tyres to enlighten members of the public.”
Inspite of the heavy rains in Asaba and its environs, the FRSC mega sensitization rally was well attended by stakeholders including vehicle drivers, vulcanizers, tyre dealers, Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO), representatives of the Delta state Ministry of Transport, Nigeria Society of Engineers, Special Marshals, Nigeria police, Immigration and Prison services, motor park associations, among others.
During the interactive session, participants who commended the FRSC for initiating the campaign to save lives, promised to inform other members of the public to be wary of the existence of substandard or expired tyres, even as they called on the federal and state governments to improve on the current condition of Nigerian road which are also responsible for accidents across the country
Highlight of the event was the practical demonstration on the means of identifying expiry dates, genuiness and use of meter guage in tyres.
Recall that the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Commission, Mr Boboye Oyeyemi, had recently directed Zonal and Sector Heads of Operations of the commission to embark on sensitisation of motorists on the dangers of using expired tyres, saying that the step was part of the efforts to minimise road crashes.
The corps marshal said that FRSC had recorded significant success in checking crashes involving articulated vehicles and was out to replicate same success on vehicles with expired tyres.
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