Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Late High Chief Tom Egbuwoku
The Chairman, Governing Council, Delta State College of Health Technology, Ofuoma-Ughelli, Dr. (Pharm.) Nelson Ejakpovi has described the death of High Chief Tom Egbuwoku as a big loss to democracy.
Dr Ejakpovi gave the description yesterday while reacting to the news of the passage of the former Chief Whip of the House of Representatives who was elected on the platform of the defunct Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) and former chairman, Commonwealth Parliamentary Association/ Africa’s representative.
According too Dr. Ejakpovi said, “with a sad heart, I received the news of the passage of the doyen of Isoko politics, High Chief Tom U.B Egbuwoku, the Okpure of Emede Kingdom.”
“He was not only a strong voice in the defunct Bendel State but, positioned the Isokos as a nation with vibrant politicians, his death at this stage in our nation’s history when we still need his advice is a big loss to democracy, from the inception of our party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he was a unifying factor not only in Isoko ethnic nationality, the state but, the country.”
Dr. Ejakpovi who commiserated with the immediate family of the deceased, asserted, *the family should take solace in the fact that High Chief served the nation meritoriously and left his foot prints on the sands of time.”
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Nnamdi KANU
In a statement issued today, the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) claimed that a team negotiating on behalf of the Federal Government for a return of peace to the oil-rich delta had agreed to release several detained or imprisoned militants, including Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, Henry Okah, a MEND chieftain serving a jail sentence in South Africa, Charles Okah, and Obi Nwabueze. The statement disclosed that Mr. Kanu and other detained IPOB activists would be released on condition that they renounce their agitation for secession. According to MEND, ex-Senator Adolphus Wabara had introduced the compromise to secure the release of the pro-Biafran agitators.Henry Okah
MEND also stated that the government’s negotiators had agreed not to arrest or harass fugitive ex-MEND militant, Government Ekpemupolo (popularly known as Tompolo), “whenever he makes himself available as a delegate of the MEND Aaron Team 2.” In addition, the group stated that the government would review the life sentence meted out on Edmund Ebiware.
MEND declared itself the only militant group from the Niger Delta region presently engaged in a dialogue with the Federal Government of Nigeria, adding that oil companies and security agencies were representing the government in talks aimed at brokering peace in the region which has witnessed increasing attacks on oil facilities since President Muhammadu Buhari came to power in May 2015.
MEND stated that the agreement called for a review of “criminal charges against Urhobo freedom fighter, Mr. Kelvin Prosper Oniarah,” and the review of life sentences handed to seven soldiers in 2008 for supporting the Niger Delta struggle. The affected soldiers are Major Suleiman Alabi Akubo, Sergeant Mathias Peter, Lance Corporal Alexander Davou, Lance Corporal Moses Nwaigwe, Lance Corporal Nnandi Anene, Lance Corporal Taatihi Emmanuel, and Private Caleb Bawa.
Declaring the deliberations “fruitful,” MEND seemed to back military reprisals against the Niger Delta Avengers should the group refuse to stop attacking oil installations in the area. MEND’s statement declared, “one of the most immediate and urgent fall-outs of the ongoing dialogue is the imperative for the Federal Government and MEND to jointly and separately take proactive steps to rescue and secure the region in the event that the recalcitrant Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) continue on their senseless and politically-motivated path of attacks on the country’s oil assets.
“To this end, both parties agreed that the Special Forces of the Nigerian Army should commence the purely routine but strategic military exercise code-named ‘Operation Crocodile Tears’; while MEND would commence a meet-the Government-Actors-and-People tour of the Niger Delta region code-named ‘Operation Moses.’”
The statement continued: “While ‘Operation Crocodile Tears’ is aimed at ensuring the combat readiness of the Nigerian Army in Amphibious and Internal Security Operations in the Niger Delta as well as check
criminal activities like kidnapping, pipeline vandalism, piracy and other forms of criminal activities spearheaded by the NDA in the region, MEND’s ‘Operation Moses’ is essentially to inform, educate and generally sensitize the citizenry in the Niger Delta, particularly the Government, the youth, oil companies, elders and militant community on the need to ceasefire and support the President Muhammadu Buhari Administration in its determined bid to proffer sustainable solutions to the current Niger Delta crisis.”
MEND urged all states, local governments, oil and gas companies and the people of the Niger Delta region “to go about their lawful and legitimate concerns without any iota of fear as we have received FIRM ASSURANCES from the Federal Government that ‘Operation Crocodile Tears’ is an innocuous exercise in the national interest.”
It added, “Meanwhile, MEND’s ‘Operation Moses’ shall be anchored by the AARON TEAM 2 Dialogue, Peace & Development Initiative jointly led by Mr. Odein Ajumogobia (SAN) and HRH King Alfred Papapreye Diette-Spiff, the Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass in Bayelsa State.
“’Operation Moses’ shall commence with a visit by the distinguished members of the AARON TEAM 2 to President Muhammadu Buhari at the State House, Abuja between August 22, 2016 and August 26, 2016.
“Thereafter, the Team shall hold sessions with top executives of major indigenous and international oil & gas companies operating in Nigeria, including the state oil company, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) on August 29 and 30, 2016 in Abuja. The focus of those sessions shall include, to wit: Local content development; Petroleum Industry Bill; Corporate Social Responsibility/Host community relations, etc.
“On September 5 and 6, 2016 in Abuja the MEND Aaron Team shall hold sessions with the top echelon of security agencies in Nigeria as well as the top management of the intervention agencies in the Niger Delta, namely: Ministry of Niger Delta; Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Presidential Amnesty Office. The Minister of Justice/Attorney General of the Federation is expected to personally attend these sessions. The focus of the sessions shall include: Extension of presidential amnesty to certain categories of political prisoners in Nigeria; Fundamental Human Rights; NDDC Act in focus; Presidential Amnesty Proclamation 2009 in focus; collapse of federal infrastructure in the Niger Delta in focus; Calabar-Lagos rail line in focus; East/West Road in focus, etc.
“After these critical sessions, “Operation Moses” shall move to tour the 9 states in the Niger Delta region, commencing with Rivers state between September 12, 2016 and September 14, 2016. Between September 15, 2016 and September 18, 2016 the Aaron Team shall be in Bayelsa state. Between September19, 2016 and September 21, 2016 the Team shall be in Delta state. From Thursday September 22, 2016 to Sunday September 25, 2016 the Aaron Team shall be in Akwa Ibom state. Between September 26, 2016 and September 29, 2016 the Team shall be in Abia and Imo states. And finally, between October 3, 2016 and October 7, 2016 the Aaron Team shall be in Edo and Ondo states.
“The central clearing house for all activities connected with “Operation Moses” shall be the MEND Aaron Team 2 secretariat. Accordingly, the Secretary of the Team, Timipa Jenkins Okponipere, Esq., shall duly communicate with all concerned persons and institutions.
“Ultimately, peace and development in the Niger Delta region is the final destination of the ongoing dialogue between MEND and the Federal Government.” ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Pastor Isaiah Ogedegbe
Isaiah Oghenevwegba Ogedegbe (born June 14, 1991), commonly referred to as Prophet I. O. Ogedegbe is a Nigerian pastor and prophet. He is from Oghara-Iyede in the Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State in Nigeria, an Isoko and Urhobo by birth.
According to a report on http://www.warritimes.wordpress.com Prophet Ogedengbe predicted on the 27th December 2013 that, “also in 2014, a very big building will collapse in Nigeria and dead bodies will be dug out of shattered blocks.” It happened eight months later on the 12th September 2014 when a guesthouse collapsed in the SCOAN’s premises in Lagos.
Since then, his name struck a gong to the whole world as a result of that prophecy which proved accurate.
Pastor Isaiah Ogedegbe recalled: “The Almighty God did tell me 10 things that would happen in 2014 when I was seeking His face for three days (2nd July, 2013-4th July, 2013). I was 22 years old then because I was born prematurely on 14th June 1991 in Warri.
“As a youth, I desired to hear the words of God from God Himself. During those three days of prayer and fasting, I heard God speaking to me and I wrote down His words which were later published online in December 2013.
“One of the 10 things that God told me would happen in 2014 was the collapse of a very big building in Nigeria resulting in deaths. It happened just as God had told me. It happened for a reason, but only God knows why.
“Why me of all prophets? God can use anybody. I never knew God was going to use me.”
Isaiah completed his primary education course from 1997 to 2003 at Caveginia Primary School. He attended Dore Numa College between 2003 and 2008. In 2008 he was the president of the Scripture Union.
His senior pastor is Pastor Samuel Ojegbe. Pastor Isaiah Ogedegbe is the assistant pastor of Temple of Light and Miracles Ministries located at 4 Skinn Road, Warri. NB – Pastor Isaiah Oghenevwegba Ogedegbe of http://www.warritimes.wordpress.com is the Editor, Warri Times. Please contact him on phone: 08134836494 or +2348134836494. ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
The 3rd Battalion of the Nigerian Army, Effurun on Thursday night bowed to pressure from groups and ex-militant leader, Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias “Tomopolo” with the release of two of his associates arrested penultimate Monday.
The duo, Simeon Bebenimibo, a member of the Delta State Waterways Security committee and Bomboy Oluwa, a boat engine repairer, were arrested on Monday, July 18, 2016 by soldiers allegedly in connection with the activities of the dreaded members of the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA).
Security sources told our Correspondent that the arrested suspects were released without any condition but due to pressure from the various groups and directive from the Presidency.
“After extensive investigations, the military had no further reason to hold them and because of public outcry including that of ex-militant leader, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, the Presidency ordered their release”, the security source disclosed.
The arrest of the duo penultimate Thursday had generated public outrage in the Niger Delta Region.
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) and Ijaw Peoples Development Initiative (IPDI) as well as other groups had reacted spontaneously decrying the arrests and subsequent detention of the duo.
Wanted ex-militant leader, Chief Government Ekpemupolo alias “Tompolo” had also in an open letter to President Muhammadu Buhari last Saturday complained bitterly over the continuous harassment and intimidation of his family members and associates by security agencies.
He had lamented that the harassment and intimidation of his family and associates was getting to a worrisome dimension noting that the situation was getting deteriorated by the day.
In the letter, which he personally signed and said would be his last, Chief Ekpemupolo noted that the harassment and intimidation of his relatives were being carried out by the security agencies in connivance with two notable members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Delta State.
The Commanding Officer of 3rd Battalion, Major Monday Anzaku, did not pick or respond to text message for confirmation of the release of the arrested persons.
However, the President of the Ijaw Peoples Development Initiative (IPDI), Comrade Austin Ozobo, confirmed the release of the arrested duo.
Also, President of Niger Delta Security Watch Organisation of Nigeria, Dickson Bekederemo, a lawyer confirmed that the arrested persons were left off the hook on Thursday night and have since reunited with their families.
He commended the military for the release but cautioned that it should henceforth operate within the ambits of the law which stipulates detention of suspects not beyond 24 hours as enshrined in section 35 of the 1999 constitution as ammended.
Bekederemo therefore urged the Federal Government to also order the release of 10 Oporoza youths, arrested on May 28, 2016,during the invasion of Gbaramtu kingdom by the military in search of the Niger Delta Avengers.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
The nightmare being witnessed by motorists and commuters on the Benin/Onitsha expressway as a result of the failed portion of the road shortly before the Asaba end of the Niger bridge may continue as attempts by the Delta State government to fix the road has again been resisted by officials of the federal government.
It would be recalled that the Delta State government’s interventionist agency, the Direct Labour Agency (DLA) had mobilized to the area shortly after the visit of the Minister of Works, Mr Raji Fashola, to the state but were chased out by officials of the federal government.
The second attempt to fix the road was made again last week to reduce the loss of man-hour and resources by commuters who spend hours on the road as a result of the bad spot, but officials of Julius Berger Plc who were brandishing contract documents again insisted that the Delta State government cannot work on the road as the state had no valid contract to do such.
The Commissioner for Information in the state, Mr. Patrick Ukah, confirmed the incident, describing it as unfortunate.
According to him, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration, since inception, has not discriminated in the provision of infrastructure in any part of the state, especially, in the area of fixing of roads.
Good road network is very important to the socio-economic development of the people, the Information Commissioner said, recalling that the governor ensured that the Warri/Benin expressway, which was cut off, was fixed as he ensured a lasting solution to the failed portions on that road.
Mr. Ukah revealed that the Delta State government also fixed the bad portions on Asaba/Ughelli road, which was almost cut into two just after Ogwashi-Uku, even though it is a federal road and would have started work on the Asaba/Illah road but had to pause as the road needs total overhaul and asphalting and prayed that the Federal Government will begin work on that road soon because it reduces traveling time from the South East to the North.
He expressed surprise that some officials of Federal Government does not want the state government to fix this bad spot which is just after Asaba as you are going to Onitsha, stressing that road users are crying because the road is a major gateway to the South-East.
Mr. Ukah disclosed that twice the DLA had mobilized to fix that road but were chased out by officials of Julius Berger Plc who said they have the contract to work on the road.
The Information Commissioner appealed to the federal government to look at the roads in Delta State, especially those areas that need urgent attention, to reduce the rates of accidents, save lives and property and reduce time spent on the roads.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA–
Alas! The great “Skippo”, the ” Big Boss”, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, CON, has been laid to rest in his Illah country home in Oshimili North local government area of Delta state, amid wailing and free-flow of tears by his children, family relations, friends, colleagues, fans, sports writers and many well wishers.
Preceding the burial arrangement, the Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa had on Wednesday, July 27 led members of the state’s executive council and other top government officials to Keshi’s residence at Illah, Oshimili North local government area of the state to condole hisfamily.
Truly the final journey home for the late Super Eagles Chief Coach and renowned football tactician, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, CON, started on Thursday, July 28 with a Requiem Mass at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Airport road in Benin City Edo state.
The motorcade bearing the corpse of the late “Skippo” arrived the church premises at about 09:30 am with the children, family members, friends, fans and well wishers.
The Very Rev. Fr. Richard Ofere and Fr. Paschal Omono who conducted the mass disclosed that Late Keshi, who was a parishioner at the St. Paul’s Catholic Church was a calm and humble person and kept his heart close to the Lord.
Speaking in his sermon, the officiating priest, Reverend Father Richard Ofere said that although Keshi was dead after a very short interlude on earth, there was hope for Christians, as they would ressurect in the body on the last day.
Reading from the book of John, chapter 11 and 12 with the story of Lazarus ressurection, the priest reassured loved ones that “although he(Keshi) had died, death is not the end of a Christian man. We must believe in the resurrection of the body”.
Very Rev. Fr. Richard Ofere reminded the Christian faithful that death is not the end of the Christian life but a re-union with Christ. He advised them to live a life worthy of emulation, saying that Stephen Keshi’s patriotic disposition to the service of his country and hard work had earned him best global accolades.
Prayers of the faithful were said for the Late Keshi by his children.
Speaking at the funeral mass held at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Benin, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Amaju Pinnick said that the federation will honour the former soccer icon.
“I have always described him as a superhero because he was a superhero. He did not do things that were regular he did things that were extraordinary.”
Afterwards, his remains was moved to the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, where a novelty match organized by his former teammates led by former Super Eagles captain and coach Austin Eguavoen was staged between ex-internationals and all stars in his honour.
Notable ex Super Eagles players who featured in the march include Austin Eguavoen, Peter Rufai, Uche Okechukwu, Alloy Agu, Mutui Adepoju, Victor Ikpeba, and a host of others.
A number of players from Super Falcons national football team also featured in the march. The only goal scored was rendered by an Edo State House of Representatives members and running mate of the All Progressives Congress(APC) guber elections in Edo, Hon Phillips Shuaibu.
Fanny Amun, an ex Super Eagles coach was also sighted at the novelty march. He used the occasion to demand adequate compensation for national service.
Shortly after the novelty match, the motorcade conveying Keshi’s remains and the vehicular convoy made a brief stop at Alifikede, the boundary town between Edo and Delta states, where a team of government and sports officials led by Delta Information Commissioner, Mr. Patrick Ukah received the corpse on behalf of the state government.
Keshi’s corpse was excorted from Alifikeke by some Delta cyclists who inspite of the rains were determined to pay their last respect to the football hero. On arrival at the Stephen Keshi stadium on Nnebisi Road, the Delta state Deputy Governor, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, Speaker of Delta House of Assembly, Hon. Monday Igbuya, House of Representatives member (Aniocha/Oshimili), Onyekachi Mrakpor, former Speakers, Martin Okonta and Peter Onwusanya, among others were on hand to pay glowing tributes to one of the most patriotic Nigerians.
On Friday, the body departed Asaba to his country home, Illah by 7am. At Illah, he was received by the Ogbelani of Illah, His Royal Highness Obi Gbemudu with his high chiefs for traditional rites as a palace chief.
Shortlly after lying-in-state at his family home, Ukpologwu Quarters, Illah, the remains of the “Big Boss” was taken to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, also in Illah for a Requiem Mass preceding the interment at his family compound, where he had his final rest.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Albert OGRAKA, in Benin City:
Truly the final journey home for the late Super Eagles Chief Coach and renowned football tactician, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, CON, has begun today (Thursday, July 28) with a Requiem Mass at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Airport road in Benin City Edo state.
The motorcade bearing the corpse of the late “Skippo” arrived the church premises at about 09:30 am with the children, family members, friends, fans and well wishers.
The Very Rev. Fr. Richard Ofere and Fr. Paschal Omono who conducted the mass disclosed that Late Keshi, who was a parishioner at the St. Paul’s Catholic Church was a calm and humble person and kept his heart close to the Lord.
Speaking in his sermon, the officiating priest, Reverend Father Richard Ofere said that although Keshi was dead after a very short interlude on earth, there was hope for Christians, as they would ressurect in the body on the last day.
Reading from the book of John, chapter 11 and 12 with the story of Lazarus ressurection, the priest reassured loved ones that “although he(Keshi) had died, death is not the end of a Christian man. We must believe in the resurrection of the body”.
Very Rev. Fr. Richard Ofere reminded the Christian faithful that death is not the end of the Christian life but a re-union with Christ. He advised them to live a life worthy of emulation, saying that Stephen Keshi’s patriotic disposition to the service of his country and hard work had earned him best global accolades.
Prayers of the faithful were said for the Late Keshi by his children. ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
The final journey home for the late Super Eagles Chief Coach and renowned football tactician, Stephen Keshi, will begin on Thursday, July 28 with series of activities lined up to herald his interment in Illah, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State,on Friday, July 29.
When journalists visited his Ukpologwu Quarters home in Illah, on Tuesday, the entire compound was wearing a new look after renovation works in readiness for his burial.
Work on the tomb, where his remains will rest, had been completed as at the time of the visit.
All was also set at the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Illah, preparatory to the service of songs/vigil mass on Thursday as well as the requiem mass on Saturday and the thanksgiving mass on Sunday.
As a titled chief in Illah, his body will stop briefly at the palace of the traditional ruler of the town tomorrow for traditional rites.
At the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, finishing touches were being put in place to receive the numerous persons that will come to pay their last respect to the fallen hero during the lying in state ceremony today.
Late Coach Stephen Keshi died on June 7, 2016 in Benin City, Edo State, at the age of 54.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Gov. Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa state
Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, has congratulated Bayelsa State Governor, Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson, following his victory at the Bayelsa State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Abuja.
This was contained in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu, wherein the Governor described the victory as “well deserved” for Dickson, a member of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP.
Governor Okowa while commending the judiciary for upholding the sanctity of the peoples mandate, thanked Bayelsans for their support to the PDP and the Restoration Government of Hon. Henry Seriake Dickson.
“On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I congratulate you on your hard earned victory at the Bayelsa State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal.
“Your victory at the tribunal is well deserved because you campaigned vigorously, selling the party’s programmes and won in seven out of eight local government areas in the state.
“The tribunal’s affirmation of your election is a fulfillment of the clearly expressed wish of the people of Bayelsa State, I therefore urge you to be humble and magnanimous in victory, remain focused and ever committed to your Restoration Agenda and work for the advancement of the interests of all Bayelsa people irrespective of their political affiliations or loyalties,”
Okowa urged the opposition to accept the tribunal ruling in good fate and cooperate with the Governor to move the state forward.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Buhari Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Mr. Maikanti Baru
President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, to increase the tempo on crude oil exploration activities in the northern part of the country.
This is in a bid to step up measures to ensure a successful operation in the ongoing search for crude oil in the Chad Basin and other parts of the Inland Sedimentary Basin even as President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered for deeper inquest into the prospectivity of some hitherto neglected finds in some areas in the North Eastern part of Nigeria.
Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Mr. Maikanti Baru, who disclosed this, yesterday, when governor of Bauchi State, Mr. Mohammed Abubakar, paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja, also lamented that Nigeria was currently facing difficult times.
Baru said the NNPC currently had exploration activities going on in the frontier basin in Chad and also in some areas close to the Kolmani River, located in Bauchi State, where Shell had made some indicative discovery of hydrocarbons. According to him, the President has directed the NNPC to go into that area to improve and further explore the magnitude and prospect of those finds.
In response to the directive of the President, Baru disclosed that the NNPC was currently taking steps to re-strategise and get into those regions to step up crude oil exploration activities. “We will re-invigorate the Frontier Exploration Services and see how they collaborate with the Northern Nigeria Development Company, NNDC.
‘’NNDC is holding bloc 809 where we have some of the finds and also the Department for Petroleum Resources, DPR, for the other blocs that have not been assigned,” Baru added. On the tough economic situation, Baru lamented that the various attacks on oil and gas assets across the country was making it difficult for the corporation to meet its financial obligations to the country.
He said: “It is a very difficult time for us with all the leakages that we suffer, especially infractions on our infrastructure, in terms of pipeline vandalism and theft to be able to meet our obligations to the Federation Account Allocation Committee, FAAC.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa & Consular General of the Swiss High Commission, His Excellenccy, Yves Nicolet
Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has disclosed that the Delta State Investment Development Agency would soon be established to harness investment potentials in the state.
The Governor who stated this when he received on courtesy visit the Swiss Consular General, His Excellency Yves Nicolet today [26-07-16] in Asaba said that the state Investment Development Agency amendment Bill was before the House Of Assembly and would be approved in the next few weeks.
He explained that the agency would liaise with the organised private sector, embassies and investors the world over to utilise the investment opportunities and grow the state economy.
“we will soon establish the Delta state Investment Development Agency whose Amendment Bill is before the House of Assembly and will be passed within the next few weeks. The agency will liaise with the organised private sector, embassies, investors from around the world to improve bi-lateral and investment relationship in the state”, the governor said.
Governor Okowa explained that given the recent financial challenges facing the country due to dwindling oil price, the state has embarked on the diversification of its economy through the agricultural sector using commercial farmers and other farmers on the ground stressing that “in the next few years, they will act as a pivot to aggregate our output, export our produce, improve our revenue and the life of the peasant farmers”
Senator Okowa commended the Consular-General on the visit and assured him of the state readiness to partner with Swiss companies and investors to develop the state economy describing the state as the Economic hub of the South- South region with the best enabling investment environment.
Earlier, His Excellency, Yves Nicolet told Governor Okowa that he was in the state to explore its economic potentials stressing that the Swiss Government was interested in improving the bi-lateral trade relationship with Nigeria and diversify its investments to other states apart from Lagos. Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (middle); Secretary to Delta State Government, Rt Hon. Ovie Agas (2nd left); Commissioner for Commernce and Industry, Barr (Mrs) Mary Iyasere (left); Consular General of the Swiss High Commission, His Excellenccy, Yves Nicolet and former Chief Economic Adviser, Chief Afam Obiago, during a courtesy call by the Swiss Consular General to the Governor in Asaba. PIX: BRIPIN ENARUSAI
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
The Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha has declared that Ike Ekweremadu should be warming up to lose his seat as the Deputy Senate President.
While speaking on Sunday night at a victory party to celebrate the outcome of the July 23, 2016 rerun election in two constituencies, the Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, said that Senator Ike Ekweremadu should be warming up to lose his seat as the Deputy Senate President.
Benjamin Uwajumogu, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who contested in last Saturday rerun senatorial election in Imo State, would displace Ekweremadu as soon as he joins the Senate.
Reports say it would be an aberration for Ekweremadu to still continue to retain his seat as the Deputy Senate President, after Uwajumogu had joined the Senate, adding that with the outcome of the rerun election, Ekweremadu’s seat had come under “heavy threat.”
The governor who said that Ekweremadu knew and feared the possibility of losing his seat, was why he relocated to Imo State three days to the rerun election, adding that it had become inevitable for Ekweremadu not to relinquish the Deputy Senate President seat to Uwajumogu.
“The position of Senator Ike Ekweremadu as the Deputy Senate President is at the moment under heavy threat, because in no distant time, the APC Senator in-waiting from Imo State, Benjamin Uwajumogu, will take over the seat on the grounds that it is an aberration that a PDP senator from the South-East is deputy to an APC Senate President because, before now, the APC could not produce a senator from the South-East zone.
“Senator Ekweremadu had known that such a development was not only feasible but inevitable and that was why he fully funded the candidate of the PDP in the rerun senatorial poll in Okigwe zone and also relocated to the state three days to the election date,” Okorocha was quoted as saying.
While responding to the governor’s statement, Ike Ekweremadu said Okorocha was on a wild goose chase for saying he (Ekweremadu) would lose his seat to the APC.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Deputy President of the Senate, Uche Anichuwku, Ekweremadu said Okorocha’s statement showed a poor understanding of the workings of the legislature, adding that he was not perturbed in any way by the wishful prospects of an APC senator of South-East extraction.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (right); his Deputy, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro (left) and Hon. Minister of Communication, Barr. Abdul-Raheem Shittu
DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has advocated a paradigm shift from dependence on revenue from oil to revenue generation from knowledge-based development.
The governor dropped the hint Monday (25/07/16) in Asaba at the public presentation of the Delta State Innovation Hub (DS-HUB) cum commissioning of Innovation Hall of Fame and the E-Government Academy.
Communications Minister, Barr. Adebayo Shittu, accompanied by leading names in Information Communication Technology (ICT) world including Leo Stan Ekeh of Zenox Computers, Ms Funke Opeke of Mainone, Prof. Pat Utomi, Prof. Sola Aderounmu to Asaba for the programme.
According to the governor, “Delta State Innovation Hub – from Oil to Knowledge-based Development is important in our state because, innovation is critical for long-term economic growth and sustainable development in both developed and the developing world.”
He added, “it fosters regional, national and global competitiveness, creates employment and helps to address and resolve major social conflicts in any given society.”
“In moving away from oil to a knowledge-based development, there is a comprehensive economic development blueprint and strategy to build technologically based skill capacities, support and empower entrepreneurs, generate new employment model for our youth, create wealth and reduce poverty,” the Governor said. from left; Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; Minister of Communication, Barr. Abdul-Raheem Shittu and Chairman Zinox Group, Leo Ekeh, during a courtesy call on the Governor by the Hon. Minister, in Asaba.
“in driving the state’s economy, we are developing an innovation and science agenda as a key component in bridging the huge gaps and deficiencies in our education, health, industry, entertainment, governance, social and state security systems.” He added.
Elated Governor Okowa commended ICT experts for their interests in partnering with his administration to develop an innovation hub and create job opportunities, stating that the “Innovation Hub – DS-IHUB – can attain noble heights if we put our minds to work and in moving this project forward, we will rely on the support and patronage of Delta State citizens at home and in the Diaspora, entrepreneurs, the academia, students, industry leaders, stakeholders, and indeed, all friends of Delta State, to ensure that this enviable knowledge venture is not only successful, but significantly beneficial to all concerned and sustainable for generations yet unborn.”
He specifically, called for sponsorship to enable the state “establish a Delta State Innovation Development Fund – IDF; encourage all youths to acquire computer skills and encourage e-governance and digital literacy skills in the civil service and other institutions; because it is worthy to inform you that we are having full benefits of ICT as our land administration is being fully digitalized, with greater ease of doing business.”
Those who spoke at the occasion including, the Minister for Communications, Mr Ekeh, Prof. Utomi, Ms Opeke, Prof. Aderunmu and others lauded the state government initiative in diversying its economy through ICT, pledging to support the initiative and provide the platform for the growth of ICT in the state.
The Director-General of DS-HUB, Mr. Chris Uwaje had earlier said the innovation hub was in line with Governor Okowa’s SMART agenda reiterating, “DS-HUB is a unique knowledge factory with an enabling environment specially designed for originating innovation, building inno-passion, developing creativity and promoting information sharing for building functional new knowledge for the delivery of all-inclusive technology solutions and support services.”
“Our faculties includes: e-government, ICT innovation platform, software & auto-card platform, multimedia centre, business process platform, e-library, research & e-learning centre, CBT practice & mentoring centre,” Mr Uwaje said.
The Minister for Communications, Barr. Shittu Adebayo on arrival in Asaba paid a courtesy call on Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
The Executive Assistant, Directorate of Orientation, Delta State, Barrister Eugene Azuka Uzum has described the senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa-led governmet as a focused, process-driven and people-oriented government irrevocably committed to listening to the voice of Deltans to positively advance their course.
Barrister Eugene Uzum made this known today, friday, July 22, 2016 during the rounding up ceremony of the 3-day seminal /Workshop organised by the Directorate, for public relation officers attached to MDAs and PEO’s in the 25 LGAs in the state at the Directorate’s secretariat, Asaba .
Speaking at the interactive /question and answer session at the seminar with the theme, ” ENHANCING INFORMATION MANAGEMENT THROUGH ORIENTATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY’, the Executive Assistant said the place of adequate information dissemination in nation building can neither be over emphasised nor oversaid. According to him, it brings information about government policies and programmes to the doorstep of the people especially the grassroot.
Fielding questions from information officers at the seminar / Workshop, Barrister Eugene Uzum said information and government are inseparable which help to synergise government policies/programmes and feedback from Deltans, especially now that the state have a listening governor poised to meeting the yearnings of the people.
While answering a question thrown at him on the need for professionalism in journalism to checkmate the excesses of social media users, as well as the need to enact a law to regulate it, Barrister Eugene Uzum said professionalism is an indispensable and paramount key in journalism but that enacting a law to regulate the Social media is almost impossible for now. He further stated that one of the reasons why regulation is difficult is because there’s no technology to decode individuals who use pseudo names (avarta ) to write rubbish and upload dirty pictures and videos.
In his words, putting up a regulation has posed a problem even to those who created the social media, hence it will be difficult to enforce and for that singular reason should be managed in a manner that will distinguish professionalism from quacks in reportage and posts.
Describing the social media as a draconia, mountain and a bride said in spite of the excesses of some persons on the cyberspace, it also has an advantage of enabling the people speak out on issues bothering on the way they want to be governed.
On why the bill to regulate the reckless use of the social media hanging before the National Assembly didn’t see the light of the day, the Executive Assistant said though there are regulations to some extent but because of political patronage and mischief attached to it, the bill couldn’t fly.
Barrister Eugene Uzum who implored everyone to be patient and to support senator Okowa’s S.M.A.R.T agenda concluded by saying that information officers owe the state a duty to promote the government and make constructive criticisms and suggestions necessary to move the state forward as Dr. Okowa is a listening governor who is focused, process-driven and people-oriented. ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Pastor Isaiah Ogedegbe
One of the very young but pin-point with his prophecies in the country is Warri-based seer, Pastor Isaiah Ogedegbe who has come up with new peeps into the immediate future highlighting 10 things that God told him will happen in 2017.
According to him, “in 2017, His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari will face a hard time while trying to cause a positive change in the economy of Nigeria through his policies. “Some big men in government will try to distract the President of Nigeria from doing what will make Nigeria a great nation.
He urged the people of the nation to “pray that God will give the President of Nigeria good health to continue in office. Cheery news is that in 2017, the people should “pray that the price of fuel will not increase in the country.”
His words: “In 2017, Nigerians will complain that there is inflation in the country. In 2017, pray for peace in the country between the North and the South because I see a contention between the North and the South.
“In 2017, I hear Nigerians saying that the country should be divided. I urge the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) to pray for the country to remain as one.
The nation’s tormentor-in-chief, the Niger Delta Avengers will bomb pipelines in Nigeria”
In an assuring tone, the seer said, “in 2017, soldiers will be sent into the Niger Delta region by the Federal Government. There will be unrest in the South. In 2017, some insurgents will be arrested by the Nigerian military.
Source: Warri Times
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Chief Jones Owei Abiri, publisher of Weekly Source Newspaper and Crack Reporters
Local newspaper publishers in Bayelsa State, under the auspices of Bayelsa Federated Newspapers Publishers Association (BFNPA), have given the state government and security agencies in the state a 48-hour ultimatum to produce Chief Jones Abiri, publisher of Weekly Source Newspaper and Crack Reporters, an online portal, who was allegedly arrested by officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) on Thursday in Yenagoa and later framed as head of a militant group.
Abiri was said to have been arrested by security operatives of DSS in the early hours of Thursday, July 21, 2016 and subsequently whisked away from his office in Yenegoa, the Bayelsa State capital with countless accusation of spreading coup rumour of a planned overthrow of President Muhammadu Buhari by the military and threat to launch missile attacks against select targets in Abuja including the Presidential Villa, the police headquarters, defence headquarters, NNPC Towers, CBN headquarters, and the National Assembly.
Just as this publication could not independently verify these claims, the Bayelsa Federated Newspapers Publishers Association (BFNPA), expressed shock over the arrest of their member, whom they described as “credible journalist and publisher”, adding that since Abiri’s abduction by nine persons, who claimed to be security operatives, nothing had been heard of the publisher.
They stated that Abiri was not a militant and therefore gave the state government and security agencies in the state a 48-hour ultimatum to produce Abiri, who is the publisher of Weekly Source Newspaper.
Chairman of the association, Mr. EasterDay Ayibatari, said the ultimatum was to enable the government and the security operatives tell them where Abiri was being kept.
Ayibatiri said, “This is because the people who ‘abducted’ the man said they were from the Department of State Services. Thus, it behoves the security agency to identify and locate where the man is being detained. Let me also make it clear that the man was on medications; he was not feeling well.”
Ayibatari, who lamented that journalists in the state were no longer safe, said armed security operatives stormed Abiri’s office in three cars with number plates: SAG 391AA, PBT 480 AA and Lagos 193 DN.
Meanwhile, the Department of State Services in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Mr. Tony Opuiyo, on Saturday in Abuja has confirmed that Abiri was arrested on Thursday by DSS operatives.
The DSS however alleged that the Newspaper and Online publisher was the mastermind of recent rumours of a military coup and further claiming that he was also known as Gen. Akotebe Darikoro, leader of the Joint Revolutionary Council, an arm of the Joint Niger Delta Liberation Force.
Part of the statement read, “Darikoro (Abiri), who operates under the nom-de-guerre ‘General-Kill and Bury’, has confessed and owned up to some criminal activities committed by the JNDLF.
“These included, vandalism of the Nigeria Agip Oil Company trunk line in Ogboinbiri, Southern Ijaw LGA and bombing of an oil pipeline belonging to Shell Development Company at Brass creek on 8 July, 2016, all in Bayelsa State.
“Darikoro is also the mastermind of the recently circulated hoax of planned overthrow of President Muhammadu Buhari, by the military.”
It will be recalled that last month, the Nigerian Army, through its acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman denied the allegation that there was a plot by the Military to overthrow President Mohammadu Buhari, vowing to investigating the claim and also deal with peddlers of the claim or rumour.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Senate President Bukola Saraki
Embattled Nigeria’s Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki, has denied reports alleging that he had defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as he insisted he was still loyal to the All Progressives Congress (APC), having contributed to the party’s growth and development.
There were reports on some media that the Senate president met with former president, Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja on Wednesday, July 20 during a closed door meeting where he declared his readiness to dump the APC and re-join the PDP.
While reacting to the report of his alleged defection, Senator Bukola Saraki, in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Bamikole Omishore, denied the rumour and insisted Saraki was committed to the APC.
Read the statement below:
“The attention of the Senate President’s Media Team has been drawn to a false publication that is making the rounds on social media that Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki has defected from the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC). This fabrication is entirely untrue as the Senate President stands committed to the APC; a party that he helped midwife and worked for its victory in the 2015 elections.
“In his official capacity as Senate President and chairman, National Assembly, he attended the end of session event of the PDP caucus yesterday evening and spent only 30 minutes before leaving the members to continue with the event.
“The Senate President would like to assure every Nigerian that he is committed to the APC-led government and appreciates the confidence reposed in him and the APC during the 2015 General Elections.”
Recall that Saraki served as governor of Kwara state on the platform of the PDP before defecting to the APC ahead of the 2015 general election.
He won the senate seat and eventually unanimously emerged as the Senate president in a shrewd move that has resulted in criticism from some APC members.
There has been speculation that Saraki might leave the APC following series of charges brought against him particularly the alleged forgery of the Senate standing rule.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – FEC Meeting
The Federal Government has begged state government to take over the rehabilitation and maintenance of federal roads.
The appeal, according to the Federal Executive Council (FEC), is to lessen the burden of fixing the roads on President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
This was an outcome of the Federal Executive Council meeting chaired by President Buhari on Wednesday.
The Minister of Women Affairs, Senator Aisha Jumiah Alhassan, disclosed this to
State House journalists after the FEC meeting.
Alhassan told journalists that the appeal followed the approval of a memo by the Minister of Power, Works, Housing and Urban Development for the re-designation of two roads in Kaduna State from being federal roads to state roads based on Governor Nasir e-Rufai’s request.
The minister said the FEC was satisfied with Governor el-Rufai’s request because ordinarily, other state governors should have requested for permission to repair and be reimbursed.
She said: The council approved the memo presented by Minister of Power, Works, Housing and Urban Development, for the re-designation of two roads in Kaduna State from being federal roads to state roads based on the request by the Kaduna State governor to Mr. President to have the two roads mentioned, the Nnamdi Azkiwe Express Way, that is the Kaduna bye-pass road as it is popularly called. And then the popular Ahmadu Bello Way which runs across almost inside Kaduna town.
“They are presently federal roads, but he (the governor) requested that they be re-designated as state roads so that they would have the power without any inhibition to work on the roads to make them better for Kaduna indegenes.
“The council was very pleased with that approach because ordinarily, other state governors should have requested for permission to repair and be reimbursed, but he (Governor e-Rufai) asked for outright handing over to the Kaduna state government so that they can take care of it as their own and asked the federal government to complete the eastern by-pass which is outside Kaduna linking the north-central to north-western Nigeria. That was also approved by council because it is a welcome idea.
“The council also appealed to other state governments that can afford to take over federal roads to lessen the burden on federal government to enable them repair and maintain roads as quick as possible so that they don’t go into total deterioration.”
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Keshi
The burial arrangements for late Super Eagles Chief Coach, Stephen Keshi, have been made public.
A member of the burial committee, who is also the Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, revealed that the ceremonies will hold between Thursday, July 28, and Sunday, July 31, 2016.
According to Mr. Ukah, who spoke in Asaba yesterday, (Wednesday, July 20,2016), on Thursday, July 28, 2016, there will be a requiem mass at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 30 Airport Road, Benin City, from 9:00 am, followed by lying in state at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, by 11:00am, while a novelty match by All Stars and Tributes will also take place at the same venue.
The same day, his remains will depart Benin City for Asaba, Delta State from 1:15pm. On arrival, there will be lying in state ceremony at Stephen Keshi Stadium, Indoor Hall, Asaba, from 3:15pm, while a service of songs/vigil mass will hold at St John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Illah, Delta State by 6:00pm same day.
On Friday, July 29, 2016 the body leaves Asaba for Illah by 7am, and there will be a brief stopover at the Ogbelani Palace for traditional rites as a Palace Chief by 8:00am, followed by lying in state at his family home, Ukpologwu Quarters, Illah, from 8:30am.
The requiem mass will take place at St John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Illah, by 10:00am after which interment will hold at his family compound, Ukpologwu Quarters, Illah, from 12:30pm. Entertainment of guests will be at Omorka Primary School Playground by 12:30pm.
The burial ceremonies will be rounded up on Sunday, July 31, 2016 with a thanksgiving mass at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Illah, by 10:00am.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Mr. Patrick Ukah! Delta Information boss
The Delta State Government has refuted the contents of a front page publication in one of the national newspapers on June 13, 2016, which supposedly gave details of grand total of Federation Account Allocation to States and Local Government Councils (LGCs) from May 2015 to June 2016.
A press release signed by the state Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, described the publication as untrue.
The report wrongly stated that Delta State got N144, 706, 571, 893.61 from May 2015 to June 2016 instead of N88, 271, 852, 589.55 that the state actually received.
According to the press release, the period covered gave the impression that FAAC receipts for June 2016 had been received by June, 13, 2016. This is incorrect because the FAAC meeting for June 2016 which approves release of fund for the month was held on June 21, 2016 and funds for that month were received on June 27, 2016 by Delta State Government.
The press release revealed that the report failed to distinguish what accrued to the State Government from what was allocated to LGCs, a separate tier of Government. It went further to state the total figures, which ignored deductions at source from the gross allocation, thereby giving impression that the entire amount accrued and were released to the State.
According to the press release, ‘for the purpose of keeping the records straight, we state that for the one-year period of the administration of His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the financial summary of FAAC receipts from June 1, 2015 to May 31, 2016 is as follows: Gross Allocation: N111, 642, 776, 745.82, Deductions: Bonds, Foreign And Local Loans And Refunds To FAAC: (23, 370, 924, 156. 27), Net Allocation To Delta State: N88, 271, 852, 589.55, Allocation To Local Government Councils: N28, 561, 041, 308.32’.
From the analysis of funds allocated to Delta State for the period of June 1, 2015 to May 31, 2016, as shown above, it is obvious that Delta State got N88, 271, 852, 589.55 and not N144, 706, 571, 893.61 as contained in the report, the press release added. ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Hon Chiedu Paul Onwuadiamu
A stalwart of the Delta State All Progressives Congress(APC), Hon Chiedu Paul Onwuadiamu has admonished the Dr Ifeanyi Okowa led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government in Delta State to make the welfare of Deltans and the provision of necessary infrastructure as critical priorities in impacting the life of the masses, instead of chasing imaginary enemies.
He offered the piece of advice in a press release made available to journalist in Asaba while responding to a statement credited to Ifeanyi Osuoza the publicity secretary of the Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, in which he cast aspersions on a foremost APC chieftain, Chief(Engr ) Hycainth Enuha, who had earlier on counseled the state governor on the impropriety of denying workers their salaries for eight months as well as the dearth of infrastructure necessary for conducive existence.
According to Hon Onwuadiamu, “I wish to reiterate the call made by our leader Chief Hyacinth Enuha that the bulk of civil servants salaries remain unpaid in Delta State. We need not remind him that local government employees have been without salary for the past 8 months”.
Continuing, the tested politician observed that “if the asphalting of Usonia Street and Cable road in Asaba amount to massive infrastructural infrastructural development to Mr Osuoza and his PDP government in 16 months, then Deltans must brace up for hard times in the coming years before 2019”.
Hon Onwuadiamu submitted that it smacks of irresponsibility for a state so richly blessed with human and material resources to wallow in poverty, poor infrastructural development, hunger and quagmire, adding that Mr. Osuoza and the Okowa administration are obviously oblivious of the massive infrastructure deficit plaguing Delta State , as has been made very manifest by the rains which have made Okpanam road and other roads in Asaba unpassable as well as the decay in Warri, Sapele and Ugheli.
The APC chieftain therefore advised the PDP government in Delta State to visit our less endowed neighbors of ANAMBRA, EDO AND RIVERS STATE and see what they have been able to do in terms of infrastructure, even with very limited resources.
He further stated that it is an open secret that Anambra and Edo States have done better than Delta State in the payment of civil servants’ salaries, in infrastructural development and indeed posses better development indices than its rich neighbor Delta State which boasts a monthly statutory federal allocation of 6 billion naira and of course a grossly under quoted 3 billion naira from internally generated revenue, a situation attributable to the monumental corruption visited on the state treasury by past and present PDP governments in the state, as exemplified by Governor Okowa who is currently vacationing in Europe and America celebrating his 57th birthday with an entourage of at least 30 persons while Civil Servants ‘salary remain unpaid.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
A pan-Delta grassroots group, the Delta Progressives Mandate has urged The Peoples Democratic Party led government in Delta state to come to reality with the fact that it has failed abysmally in the primary task of providing good governance and democracy dividends to Deltans.
In a release signed by the group’s spokesman, Honorable Sagacious Karo Louis, in a reaction to an online publication where Chief Chris Agbobu, a member of the Delta State PDP, uttered some spurious and uncomplimentary remarks about High Chief Hyacinth Enuha, a All Progressives Congress(APC) leader, who had earlier on counseled the Delta State Government on the need for good governance, the body observed that there could be no more auspicious time than now for the PDP led government to face the realities of governance, by listening to sacrosanct observations from patriotic Deltans who have felt betrayed by the PDP led government.
Continuing, Hon Loius reminded Chief Agbobu that a million invectives would never vitiate Chief Enuha’ submissions prominent amongst which are that local government employees as well as teachers in the Delta State are being owed salaries for nine and three months respectively, coupled the dearth of infrastructural development across the entire state.
He further submitted that discerning Deltans acknowledge Chief Enuha as a committed and forthright elder statesman whose advocacy for good and accountable governance would never be silenced in the face of uncouth utterances by relevance – seeking individuals, who could not boast tangible impact on the their constituents while in power as ministers of the Republic of Nigeria, adding that ” if Chief Agbobu delights in riling patriotic critics, he should as a matter of honour reveal to Deltans and in deed, the world one project he attracted to Delta State , Aniocha South and Ubulu-Unor his home town as first, Minister of Agriculture and thereafter Defence during Obasanjo regime”.
While responding to Chief Agbobu’s assertions of non performance by the APC led federal government, he enthused that “it is a known fact that a refuse heap accumulated for sixteen years during which the PDP bestrode the Nigeria political landscape cannot be cleansed in one year, while on the contrary the PDP that had been in power for the past 16 years in Delta has not found its bearing ”
According to Hon Loius, Delta State which at present is in a comatose cannot afford to remain in opposition to the centre(Federal) ,so it is certain that PDP would surely be sent packing from the government house through free, fair and credible election come 2019.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Late ‘Cicero’
President Muhammadu Buhari, has directed the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, to reopen investigation into the unresolved murder of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige ‘Cicero’, and ex-Deputy National Chairman, South-South of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Aminosari Dokubo, and fish out the perpetrators.
It could be recalled that the killing of the two personalities caused national outrage, with Nigerians calling on the government of former President Olusegun Obasanjo to fish out the killers who have still not been found.
Chief Bola Ige was shot dead in his bedroom in Bodija, Ibadan, home at about 9pm on December 23, 2001, after he arrived Ibadan from Lagos at about 8.30pm. His security details were said to have sought permission from the former Attorney General to go and eat before the incident occurred. The gunmen, allegedly shot their target in the chest.
Following the death of the late Bola Ige, several unsubstantiated allegations were made against several politicians and interest groups, with some even saying the ‘Cicero’, as he was fondly called, was killed to halt the rise in his political profile, while others said it had to do with his impending probe of the corruption in the power sector of the nation’s economy.
On the part of Chief Aminosari Dokubo, the late PDP Deputy National Chairman was said to be returning to his base from Abuja after a meeting when he was waylaid by suspected assassins on entering Delta State.
He was killed near Asaba on October 22, 2004. Dokubo’s assassination at the time was alleged to have been caused by certain disagreements with the powers that be in his political party, prior to the general elections.
In a bid to unearth the perpetrators of these unresolved murders, the Acting Inspector General of Police has however instituted a high powered investigation team, headed by an Assistant Inspector General of Police, to crack the case.
Reacting to the development, Architect Muyiwa Ige, son of late Chief Bola Ige, said last night that it would be glorious, if the family could get justice 16 years after. Muyiwa, who could not hide his happiness, said President Buhari did not disappoint him, saying the matter was now in the right direction. He said: “I knew right from the advent of the administration of President Buhari that the matter would be resurrected.
The President is in the right direction. To God be the glory. It’s a new day; we are happy, we will get justice after 16 years. “We are happy that all those who murdered our father, including the star witness, will be brought to justice. It’s good news.”
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – South-South and South East lawmakers
To facilitate development in the Niger Delta region, South-South and South East lawmakers have urged the Federal Government to review the ownership structure of oil wells in the country.
“The people of the Niger Delta region should possess at least 65 percent of the oil wells contrary to the present ownership structure where less than 10 percent of the oil blocks belong to our people”
They noted that the region’s development is being hindered by the present payment mode of derivative oil funds.
“There is an urgent need for the Federal Government of Nigeria to put in place adequate machinery that would ensure direct payment of derivative oil funds into the hands of Niger Delta Benefiting communities” the principal officers and members of the Houses of Assembly in the region said.
Rising from the first parliamentary session of the South-South and South-East Houses of Assembly in Owerri, Imo State weekend, the lawmakers condemned the criminal and nefarious activities of the so called herdsmen.
“Legislators of the Houses of Assembly in the South-South and South East can no longer watch helplessly as our region drifts aimlessly while our people walk the razor edge under the strain of impoverishment, environmental degradation, insecurity and uncertainty on the one hand and the destruction of oil/gas installations and the attendant consequences including their impact on the ecosystem and the economy on the other hand”
They urged the youth to shun confrontation, violence and militancy in pressing for the redress of the zone.
“They must embrace dialogue and diplomacy and channel their grievances through various constituted platforms”
The joint session of legislators from the South -East and South –South geo-political zones not only condemned the evil acts of kidnapping, hostage taking and bursting of oil pipelines but stressed that militants from the zones should be constituted into an officially recognized brigade for the protection of oil installations
“They should among other things be charged with the responsibility to halt the rise of other offensive militant groups who may from time to time threaten to spring up”
The lawmakers advised the Presidency to direct the security agencies in the country to brace up and be alive to their constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property.
“They must save the people of the geo-political zones from the hands of the marauding herdsmen. Governments of the South-East and South-South geo-political zones should set up a high powered joint judicial panel of inquiry to unravel the facts and circumstances surrounding the incessant attacks by the herdsmen and determine the best way to prevent its recurrence in the zones. They should also establish special task force drawn from the various security agencies and neighborhood watch in each local government to checkmate the excesses of herdsmen and prosecute them”
The legislators, who called for more proactive measures to address the activities of herdsmen, restated their commitments to pass bills restricting cattle rearing, prohibiting grazing of cattle from one location to another through farmlands thereby causing damages to farm lands, health hazards and obstruction of vehicular and human traffic.
The lawmakers while attributing the defective and harsh socio-economic environment, lack of employment opportunities, lack of empowerment for the youth, environmental degradation, lack of infrastructure, general underdevelopment and inadequate benefit of the resources from the region, despite being the major source of the economic resources of the nation to the causes of upsurge in militancy activities in the region, rejected the proposed bill to establish and control grazing routes and reserves before the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly.
They urged the Federal Government to revisit the performance of the amnesty programme, the United Nations Environment Programme Report and the Hydrocarbon Pollution Restoration Project with a view to strengthening grey areas.
They also urged the National Assembly to ensure the accelerated passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill
“The Federal Government should enter into peaceful dialogue with the critical stakeholders in the South-South and South- East in resolving the dispute and operate within the rule of engagement without incurring collateral damage”
Speakers and Deputy Speakers of Abia, Akwa-Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Enugu and Imo states were in attendance.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta Acting Governor Kingsley Otuaro
The Delta state government says it has keyed into the National Social Safety-Net Programme (NAPPS) of the Federal Government designed to tackle poverty and unemployment in the country.
The claim was made at the instance of the National Social Safety-Net Programme (NAPPS) stakeholders and sensitization meeting held on Friday, July 15, 2016 in Asaba, to showcase the benefits of the Federal Government’s special intervention project designed for Nigerian youths and market women.
Speaking during the meeting organised by the Delta state Operations Coordinating Unit (SOCU), the State Acting Governor, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, who lauded the Federal Government for coming up with the progamme at a time the country was been challenged with unemployment and poverty, said the programme is in tandem with the policies of the Delta state government to ensure the useful engagement of unemployed persons in the state, adding that the state had already set up a committee to work with the federal agency in line with the NAPPS.
According to him, the state government has within its limited resources and through its various empowerment programmes created 6,800 direct jobs and 10, 373 unskilled jobs in the pat one year.
“So, as a state, we have identified the importance of this safety-net programme and will not hesitate to key into it to empower our people and reduce poverty in line with our electioneering promise of prosperity for all Deltans. In this direction, we are willing to parter any Organisation and indeed the federal Government towards realising the set goals.”
Earlier, Hajia Mariam Uwais of the Office of the Vice President, represented by Mr Mohammed Brimah, Special Assistant to the Presidency on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Social Investment said the programmes were in five main segments, which will be financed under the N500 billion budgetary provision of the Federal Government in the 2016 budget.
Brimah who made a presentation during the stakeholders parley held in Government House, Asaba, disclosed that the programme is community-based driven with utmost transparency in selection processes.
While encouraging the people to register on-line as the portal for the programmes closes on July 25, the Focal Person and Executive Secretary, Delta State Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency, Mrs Shimite Bello, said that the beneficiaries of the programme were market women, farmers and youths and first time borrowers.
“Also artisans, teachers in health, agriculture and schools will benefit as they will be given stipends during the training. Those who will qualify for loan will get it at three per cent interest rate which makes it easie
The Delta State Commissioner for Basic & Secondary Education, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, who said that the implementation process would be done from the ward levels of each local government in the state for equal representation, urged the Federal Government to consider increasing the state funds for the school feeding programme in the state, since the primary school population in the state was over 219,000 pupils.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Sejebor
THE Niger Delta Indigenous Movement for Radical Change (NDIMRC) has passed confidence vote on the Group General Manager of National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS),Mr Dafe Sejebor over alleged corruption and marginalisation of contractors from the region and tasked security operatives “to fish out those after the life of the NAPIMS boss”.
One Terry who claimed to be writing on behalf of the Urhobo Youth Council Worldwide had accused the NAPIMS boss of fraudulent practice of obtaining money from Contractors.
The said Terry had also accused the NAPIMS boss in his write-up of being behind the demobilisation of the Vessel of one Chief Henry Ojogho from Mobil, claiming the development was causing a lot of problems in Delta State.
He had warned the NAPIMS boss to tell Mobil to remobilised the Vessel of the said Chief Henry Ojogho and had added that the marginalisation of Deltans in NAPIMS by Mr Dafe Sejebor will no longer be tolerated.
But in a press statement signed by its President, Nelly Emma; Secretary, John Sailor and Public Relations Officer, Stanley Mukoro, the group exnorated the NAPIMS boss of allegations against him, saying that some elements being used by disgruntled Contractors were just out to tarnish the good image of the NAPIMS boss.
According to the group; “Our findings have shown that Mr Dafe Sejebor, NAPIMS boss has nothing to do with the demobilisation of the Vessel of Chief Henry Ojogho by Mobil. If he has issues with Mobil, he should find a way of resolving such issues with Mobil and leave an innocent man out of it”.
The group stated that; “As a credible oil monitoring group, our investigation has revealed that the said Terry is a loner and do not have the backing of the Urhobo Youth Council Worldwide and he should stop soiling the image of the Urhobo Youth Council. Our checks have shown too that he once claimed to be fighting the cause of the Ijaw people and today it is the turn of the Urhobo people. To the best of our knowledge, NAPIMS under the watch of Mr Dafe Sejebor has been very transparent and he should be encouraged by all and sundry.”
On the allegation that Mr. Dafe was marginalising Deltans in NAPIMS, the group said that;”.This is a pure lie and should be ignored. Deltans and the entire people of the Niger Delta Region are having their fair share in NAPIMS and even our local contractors are being carried along on merit. Without NAPIMS, it would have been very difficult for Nigerian local contractors to be awarded contracts. These allegations against the hard-working NAPIMS boss are unacceptable to us and the entire people of the oil-rich Niger Delta region.”
While warning those being used to give the NAPIMS boss, Mr Dafe a bad name and mislead the public, the group tasked Security Operatives to fish out such elements and bring them to book, saying their threat messages to the NAPIMS boss should be investigated properly.
” We know those that have been hired to rubbish the good reputation of the Group General Manager of NAPIMS. They are not representing the people they are claiming to be fighting for; they are on selfish mission and this is why we are calling on security operatives to smoke such bad elements out and deal with them appropriately “, group stated.
The group said:” These elements who have been sending threat messages to the NAPIMS boss and those they are working for should be investigated by security operatives and dealt with, otherwise this will weaken the morale of the likes of the NAPIMS boss who are doing a great job for our people by promoting the Nigerian Local Content. People are always going against things that are not to their favour. These people are selfish, greedy and out to blackmail the hard-working NAPIMS boss, Mr Dafe”.
“Let it be known that the NAPIMS boss alone cannot take the decision of contract award, due process must be followed and it is very wrong and unacceptable for a government worker to be threatened with text messages because their pay master failed to secure a particular contract. Let the DSS do their investigation and fish out those that have been sending threat messages to the NAPIMS boss,” the group wrote.
The group added “It is on this note that we want to pass confidence vote on the NAPIMS boss, Mr Dafe Sejebor for his good works. The NAPIMS boss should be commended for the promotion of the Nigerian Local Content; for giving Deltans and the entire people of the Niger Delta Region a sense of belonging and not condemnation, this is not acceptable and the general public should ignore all the false allegations against the NAPIMS boss. Our Security Operatives must also beef up security around the NAPIMS boss and should treat the threat messages with the desired seriousness.”
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta Information boss, Mr Patrick Ukah making a presentation to Delta NAWOJ boss Comrade Patricia Gbemudu
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Delta state council has been told to encourage professionalism among practicing female journalists in the state.
The Delta state Commissioner for Information, Mr Patrick Ukah who gave the charge while receiving the state executive of NAWOJ in his office in Asaba, said a lot was expected of them as opinion moulders, particularly in ensuring balanced reportage of the activities of the state Government.
He reminded them that Delta state would be celebrating her 25years of creation in August, and urged them to propagate a new Delta with focus and renewed determination to positively impact on the lives of Deltans.
The information commissioner used the occasion to appeal to private institutions to support the Delta at 25 program, adding that there would be an investment and economic forum to tell the world how they could do business with Delta state.
The chairman of the Delta state NAWOJ, Comrade Patricia Gbemudu said the visit was to familiarise the commissioner with members of the executive, the activities of NAWOJ in the state and other pertinent details.
She said the visit was an extension of the partnership between NAWOJ and the Ministry of Information, in recognition of its role and contributions in actualising the prosperity for all agenda of the state government.
Highlight of the visit was the presentation of souvenirs to the state NAWOJ chairman by the Information Commissioner.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Chikezie
Delta State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Hon. Austin Chikezie has advised farmers Co-operative Societies in the State against paying money to any individual or financial institutions for participating/registration in the “CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme.”
The Commissioner gave the advice during a meeting in his office with the Committee on “CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP)” that the CBN (ABP) is being executed by Central Bank of Nigeria in collaboration with Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the Participating Financial Institution (PFI) is Bank of Agriculture (BOA).
He stated that these three institutions will select Input Providers and Anchor Off-Takers, while assuring the Committee that the MoU will be signed next week.
The Agric Commissioner further advised all farmers/Co-operative Societies in the State that any information regarding the programme should be directed to the Office of the Commissioner, or his representative, Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources Asaba, the Central Bank of Nigeria Branch Manager or the Development Finance Office (DFO) Asaba or the Manager Bank of Agriculture, (BOA) Asaba, stressing that we are not liable to any other business hat is done outside these three institutions.
Hon. Chikezie emphasised that the ABP is not connected to DESOPADEC in concept and conduct, saying that any consumer commodity society that pays money into any accounts or caught selling forms will be sanctioned accordingly.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Mr. Patrick Ukah
Members of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in Oshimili North Local Government Council have been advised to continue to live as one family in order to maintain the existing peace prevailing in the area.
The Delta State Commissioner of Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, gave this advise on Wednesday in Akwukwu Igbo, during the inauguration of the Oshimili North Local Government Council and ward executives of the PDP.
Mr. Ukah noted that for some time now, the party had been bedeviled by internal wrangling amongst it’s members in the area, but expressed happiness that the development is now a thing of the past.
The Information Commissioner assured the people of the commitment of the state governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, to bring the dividends of democracy to the area in line with his prosperity for all Deltans agenda.
Earlier in his address, the Vice Chairman, Delta North PDP, Hon. Moses Iduh, reminded members of the newly inaugurated exco that they were elected to serve and not to Lord it over others.
He urged them to work as a team in other to post the best results during the next general elections slated for 2019, adding that they should reach out to persons who are not members of the party.
In his speech, the local government party Chairman, Chief Nduka Oguda, said that the ceremony was organized to enable party leaders participate and offer useful advise and profer solutions on greater ways and methods that could reposition the party to enable it bounce back stronger to retain and reclaim it’s enviable position of governance at the national, state, and local government levels in 2019 and beyond.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Adieu Keshi
Contrary to rumours making the rounds in some sections of the society that the late Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Stephen Keshi, has no building in his home town, Illah in Oshimili North Local Government Council, the late Coach has a house inside a large expanse of land.
This discovery was made on Wednesday by journalists who accompanied the Delta State Commissioner of Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, on a visit to the compound to see the extent of the ongoing renovation works preparatory to his burial later this month.
Mr. Ukah, who was conducted round inside the building and other parts of the compound by the eldest brother of deceased, Mr. Sylvester Keshi, and a nephew, Mr. Eboka Ofuonye, disclosed that the visit was to see the extent of renovation done as the burial date in Illah is around the corner.
The Information Commissioner said that the state government is assisting the family to see that the compound is put in proper shape considering the number and calibre of very important persons who will come to pay their last respect to the fallen hero.
The burial ceremonies of late Stephen Keshi will begin in Abuja on July 26, 2016, with interment taking place in Illah on the 29th and outing service on July 31, 2016.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –FROM BENJAMIN ATU, BENIN CITY
The member representing Etsako Federal Constituency in the House of Representative Hon. Philip Shaibu, has berated the leadership of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) over the comments by the PDP vice Chairman for Edo North Mr. Segun Saiki that “PDP will give Oshiomhole an embarrassing sendoff from Edo North.”
In his reaction, the law maker said PDP will not have any vote from Edo North in the forth-coming September election and advise them to stop day- dreaming and building castles in the air.
He described comments of Saiki as an expression of fear saying that the PDP as a party has made corruption a Soap-opera and a religion. He advice the leadership of the PDP to start moving out of Edo North before they will be disgrace by the electorate on the 10th of September through voting.
Hon. Philip Shaibu who was the former Majority Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly and the Running mate to Mr. Godwin Obaseki, described the PDP as sore point in the Nigerian script. The PDP are power mongers who cleaved to power, abused their offices, and desecrated the sanctity of democratic ethos. He maintain that PDP is a colony of looting locust stressing that the people of Edo North have vow to resist the presence of PDP from every household and street. The lawmaker accused the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) of returning the era of renting crowd for campaign.
Hon. Philip Shaibu emphasized that, the crowd that was present at the PDP flag of in Auchi was a rented crowd from neighbouring states who hd no idea of the effors of Governor Adams Oshiomhole. According to him, APC is the only party in Edo North. PDP is the reason why the people of Edo State are in the shackles of poverty until God brought Oshiomhole to deliver the State. PDP is a party of living dictators and Men who have metamorphosed into deities. He stressed that the time of the PDP has gone but it’s a pity that they do not realize it.
The Deputy Governor hopeful said the people of Edo Should expect to see a new Governor in a different mood and with more commitment to continue the developmental and industrialization programme in the State, with a new zeal and enthusiasm.
According to him, during the PDP era, Edo State was in murky waters until the APC took over to deliver the State. We need a personality like Mr. Godwin Obaseki who has the dexterity, uncommon tact and the blazing determination of a cerebral mind to pilot the state to a safe destination.
Shaibu emphasized that such a gigantic task ahead is not a task to be left for political misfits or gladiators like PDP whose base instincts are rooted in sentiments and divisive interest.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –BY FIDELIS EGUGBO 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
CELEBRATION of one year anniversary of Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has opened a new vista for what Deltans should expect within the next three years or did I hear you say, “seven years?”
The Governor has been known for pulling surprises but, nobody expected him to do what he did during the celebration of his one year in office.
Before May 29, 2016, colleagues in the pen-pushing profession were skeptical if the Governor would address a press conference and when such was confirmed that certainly, the Governor who believes in saying things as they are, would address the press to x-ray his achievements within one year and also, unfold the programmes to celebrate his one year in office, another question came up; will the press conference be for a selected few?
That press conference which took place at the Press Centre, Government House, Asaba on May 23, 2016, has come and gone but, I had to bring up the issue here because, the press conference which ordinarily was supposed to be for only accredited journalists was open to almost everybody who had one or two questions to ask the Governor. It was an interesting press briefing which saw the Governor answering more than twenty questions on different topics including those that concerned the nation and the international community. As an individual, it was a memorable press briefing as the Governor made it obvious that he was not just running an all-inclusive government where everybody is a stakeholder but, a transparent, accountable administration that is accessible to all.
It is no longer news that Governor Okowa came into office when the finances of the federal government had tumbled to the extent that a state which was receiving more than N20 billion from the federation account with a wage bill of more than N7 billion on staff salary alone was battling to get about N3 billion. So, many Deltans including event watchers were expecting the Governor to say, his greatest achievement within one year in office was the payment of salaries as at when due. Yes! As I am writing this piece, many civil servants in other states are yet to receive their salaries while some staff of some state governments have down-tooled due to same issue.
So, ordinarily, payment of salaries at this point in time, was supposed to be a great achievement by a state government but, alas! Governor Okowa embarked on commissioning of projects and backed it with inspection of projects which were under construction. The surprising element of the commissioning and inspection of the projects was that the Governor unlike previous administrations that would have abandoned projects which were initiated by their predecessors, weighed the benefits of such projects to Deltans and embarked on completing such projects while initiating new ones.
Such action by the Governor is unimaginable and a closer look at what is happening in the country today, will show that what the Governor did doused tension, proved critics wrong and consolidated on the gains of previous administrations to prove that government is a continuum.
On May 24, 2016, the Governor, accompanied by political aides and followers stormed Delta Central Senatorial District to commission the Ejinyere/Orodje Streets in Orerokpe. He also inspected the YAGEP (Youth Agriculture Enterpreneurial Programme) at Ekpan-Ovu in Ethiope East local government area of the state that same day. That was the commencement of what the Commissioner for Information in the state, Mr Patrick Ukah described as “project commissioning spree.” The activities to mark the celebration of one year in office ended Friday, June 24, 2016 with the commissioning of Abavo General Hospital and Palace Road, Owa-Oyibu in Ika South and Ika North-East local government areas of the state.
Significantly, at every place he visited, the communities expressed joy that what they thought were impossible were done by the Governor and of course, it is on verifiable record that there is no federal constituency that Governor Okowa did not commission or inspected at least one project.
But, if you think what the Governor was doing was without a lot of sacrifices, then, you are joking. Democracy provided that any government can be assessed by anybody, so, the common man on the streets must feel the impact of that who is in power for such a person to win his or her confidence. If the Governor had succeeded in paying only salaries without commensurate execution of projects, even the civil servants would not be happy with him.
When you are struggling to deliver on electoral promises and you see someone trying to thwart your efforts, naturally, you will be angry. As such, the Governor did not hide his anger when he discovered at Uduophori, Patani Local Government Area of the state that some civil servants could still connive with contractors to execute shoddy jobs despite efforts to meet with the yearnings of the people.
Visibly angry Governor Okowa emphatically said, that with the lean resources accruing to the state, his administration could not afford to execute one project twice and the projects executed by his administration must stand the test of time.
“The Engineer that supervised the job is not supposed to be an employee of the state government, we cannot afford to have failed projects within one year of execution, it is good that he (the Engineer) has been queried but I will follow the case up as appropriate sanctions must be applied. You (the contractor handling the project) have embarrassed me with this type of shoddy job, we cannot push you to go beyond your pace, the first thing we want is quality job as my name matters a lot to me. We don’t have to manage anything, the name of the company is at stake too, the financial situation is tough, so, we cannot afford to do one road twice,” the Governor said at the occasion.
In other climes, the Governor would not have personally inspected the projects and seen not just the pace of work done but, the quality of the projects been executed and he was always ready to ask the supervisory Ministries if their staff was on ground to ensure that what was been done was in accordance with what was in the terms of engagement.
Governor Okowa also surprised many persons and endeared himself to the people of Ndokwa nation during the inspection of road construction at Beneku, Ndokwa East local government area of Delta State. The Governor walked into the Pontoon on Ase Creek from Kwale to Beneku. He trekked some distance and showed his statesmanship during his return journey. The Pontoon was filled beyond capacity and the crowd surged towards the exit eager to leave it. Of course, most of the people were not used to river and some of them have never entered a Pontoon or a boat, so, that anxiety caused the Pontoon to tilt and the managers of the Pontoon asked the ‘passengers’ to shift back to enable the Pontoon had a balance to stabilize it for landing, this elicited a little commotion for obvious reasons but, throughout the period, the Governor was calm and was even telling others to be relaxed as the Pontoon would safely berth. At the end, everything was without mishap to the glory of God.
The people in most of the communities visited by the Governor said they were having an elected Governor visiting their communities for the first time since the birth of democracy and this was clear indication that the Governor was on one-on-one with the electorates who were happy to have such a grassroots man as their Governor.
During the visits, like the proverbial Oliver Twist, while the communities thanked the Governor for what he had done, they still made a lot of requests showing that despite the sixteen years of democracy, a lot is still expected by the people. But, can Governor Okowa in four or eight years do what could not be achieved in more than sixteen years of Nigeria’s democracy or twenty-five years of the existence of the state?
Times shall really tell, but, with the commissioning and inspection of projects, critics of the Governor cannot accuse him of incompetence and of course, there is no fear about opposition political parties because, the state remains the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stronghold. Congratulations Deltans, congratulations Democracy.
(Courtesy: The Pointer Newspaper)
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –BY KOLA EKE-OGIUGO
The Delta State Government confirmed yesterday its resort to the staggered mode of payment of public officers in the light of the persisting challenging economy.
The state’s economy has been on the downward slide in the face of the crash of crude oil price, and, of late, the sabotage of oil facilities by militants who have cut back national daily export tally by more than a quarter.
The mode envisions the settlement of public officers under the Grade Level 12 in the first tranche of payments, leaving the second tranche for the flower of its workforce – those on Grade Levels 13 and above – for subsequent payment.
Those captured in the first tranche are soon to be settled in a matter of days, while the other would be paid soon afterwards.
Confirming the development in an exclusive chat in Asaba, Comrade Mike Okeme, the Senior Special Assistant to State Governor on Labour and Industrial Relations, said that, in the face of the persisting significant dwindle in the state government’s receipts from the Federal Account (FA), the government had to streamline its expenditure to tally with its income.
The payment of public officers, he said, falls under the activities of the government that had to be affected by the new development.
Okeme said that the painful decision of the government had been brought to the attention of the leadership of organised labour movement in the public sector, which had shown great understanding at the decision of the administration he held as workers’ – friendly.
He also laid the predicate of the government’s plan on its decision to meet part of its outstanding payment obligations to staff of the Delta State University (DELSU), the leadership of which unions had begun to kick over the members unpaid entitlements.
But he stressed that the strategy of staggered payment would be a transient resort that would be jettisoned as soon as the state’s earnings from the federation account and internal sources was sufficient to simultaneously meet all of the government’s monthly obligations to its employees, in one fell swoop.
Okeme added that, the resort, in respect of which he sought public understanding, was a temporary one that would soon end.
He assured workers of the subsisting resolve of the administration to accord the payment of their salaries and other entitlements top priority, just as he said that the entitlements of retirees would enjoy no less priority attention.
Delta State, with a workforce that is said to be about 70,000 strong, has a monthly wage bill estimate at N7bn for public officers and political appointees – and also contends with a huge obligation to banks and other interests that gulps in excess of N5bn every month.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Barr. Uzum and Master IBEH CHRISTIAN UCHE
The Executive Assistant (Directorate of Orientation) to Governor Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa and the OKOWABILITY PROGENITOR, Barr Eugene Azuka Uzum has awarded scholarship to Master IBEH CHRISTIAN UCHE, an ND 1 student of the department of Mass Communication, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku.
Uzum, announced the award amidst fanfare during the Ika day celebration by students of National Association of Ika Students (NAIS), Ogwashi-Uku chapter.
Master Ibeh who is 19 years of age, a native of Alihiame Town in Ika South local government area of Delta State has dancing and singing as his hobby .
According to Master Ibeh, “I used to hear Angels and Destiny helpers lives on earth but I never knew I will meet one in my entire life in the person of Hon Barr Eugene Uzum.
God will Bless him.”
Earlier, Barr. Uzum extolled Governor Okowa on his 57th year birthday describing him as a divine gift to the State.
Uzum who described Governor Arthur Okowa as a living legend and an achiever per excellence, said “Your people oriented policies, human and infrastructural development in the wake of the harsh economic crunch distinguished you as the best Governor in Nigeria.
“Deltans, Nigerians and indeed friends of the Okowability family, join me to wish our SMART GOVERNOR a happy birthday with more of Divine Favour, Long Life and PROSPERITY in Jesus Name, Amen.”
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah
Students have been advised that they are no short cuts to success as it comes as a result of adequate preparation, hard work and learning from failure.
The Delta State Commissioner of Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, stated this on Thursday during the graduation of class of 2016 at Trinity International College, Ofada, Ogun State.
Mr. Ukah, who spoke on ‘Discipline and Diligence, Ingredients of Future Leaders’ as a Guest Speaker, told them that there is no short cut to good and enduring success as people must pay the full price in the currency of hard work.
The Information Commissioner also said that discipline means the ability to do what is right when it is right and not to do what is wrong or what is inimical to their dreams and purpose for living.
Mr. Ukah added that diligence helps to actualize people’s abilities, discover potentials in themselves and put them on the track of greatness, stressing that the more diligent people are, the more they will discover what they can do.
The occasion was the 13th in the series of graduation ceremonies of the school established in 1995.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
CHAIRMAN of caretaker committee of Tipper and Quarry Employers of Nigeria (TQEU) Comrade Dumebi Eluaka has debunked claims by an Asaba based legal practitioner, Barr. Larry Olisa that he is not a registered member of the union.
Speaking with journalists in Asaba, Comrade Eluaka said the report credited to the legal practitioner and published in The Pointer Newspaper was done in bad faith and designed to mislead the public.
According to him, “it is surprising to us that a legal practitioner is dabbling into a union affair; what has Barr. Olisa got to do with activities of Tipper and Quarry Union because, he is not our member and he did not speak as someone who was contracted to represent us.”
“As a lawyer, he ought to have made it clear that he was representing our members or he is a member of our union,” Comrade Eluaka said, adding, “it is unfortunate that some persons can know more about the constitution and membership of other unions and trying to cause crisis when non exists whereas, they could not say categorically if they are representing themselves or others.”
Comrade Dumebi added, “the national executive committee set up a caretaker committee and made me its chairman as one of our members, Comrade Kanayo Enenmo dragged the union to court in an issue the national executive committee and the Trade Union Council in the state had settled and as at today, we are working to see that elections are held for the union to make progress.”
Asked if he is a registered member of the union, Comrade Eluaka said, “of course, I am a registered member, I have sand dredgers, I have Tippers and at present, I have seventy eight persons who are working for me as members of Tipper and Quarry union, so, what else do you think should qualify me as member of the Union? I pay my dues and as an organized union, is the lawyer saying the national executive committee does not know members of the union?”
“My interest is for us to have a peaceful and progressive union and as at today, we have our people working in twenty local government areas of Delta State and Barr. Olisa should fulfill the requirements if he wants to join our union,” Comrade Eluaka stated, reiterating, “we are making progress in Delta State as employers of labour and we are begging government to give us three acres of land for us to build Tipper’s Park, we are also soliciting soft loans for our members to boost their investments because we deal with heavy duty equipments like tractors, pail loaders, tippers, among others.”
He decried Barr. Olisa’s attempt to drag other unions into the affairs of Tippers and Quarry union saying, “as a union, we have built peace within ourselves and we cannot work in isolation, so, we collaborate with other trade unions to ensure industrial harmony and cohesion in our activities.”
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta State governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, have been described as a leader who see opportunities where others see challenges.
The state Commissioner of Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, stated this today (July 8, 2016) in a statement on behalf of the government and people of the state on the occasion of the 57th birthday celebration of the governor.
Mr. Ukah stated that Governor Okowa is a leader who empower others and inspire them to achieve their potentials.
The Information Commissioner said that with hope in a vision that defines tomorrow based on empowering the people, Governor Okowa is on track to build a Delta State of Prosperity for All.
He prayed that God will give the governor good health and the wisdom to continue to pilot the affairs of the state in his avowed determination to deliver the dividends of democracy to all Deltans.
Mr. Ukah appealed to all Deltans to be patient as the Delta State government under the able leadership of Senator Okowa is poised to ensure that developmental projects are executed in all parts of the state.
The Information Commissioner reminded the people that the several projects inspected/commissioned by the governor in different parts of the state as part of activities marking his one year in office was a clear testimony that Dr. Okowa will deliver his campaign promises. ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Charles Aniagwu
The story of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State is the story of courage and resilience. He is a man of great faith, enviable impacts and of flawless reputation. As Senator in the 7th Assembly, he was ranked among the best Senators for sponsoring ten (10) bills- including the National Health Bill, a feat many acknowledged as ingenious, legendary and laudable despite his short stint in the red chambers. His steady progress did not just start today as a lot of people, who knew him a long time ago, would not easily forget how he rode on the back of humility-through all his professional and political career, even to his present status as Governor of Delta State.
Born on the 8th of July, 1959 at Owa-Alero in the present Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State, he had his early education at Iroro Primary School, Owa-Alero and later attended the famous Edo College, Benin City. He graduated with the second best result in the Higher School Certificate Examination in the then Bendel State in 1976.
Thereafter, he proceeded to the University of Ibadan to study Medicine and Surgery. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa graduated in 1981 with MBBS, at the record age of 22. Upon his completion of the National Youth Service Corps in 1982; he worked briefly with the defunct Bendel State Hospitals Management Board as a Medical Officer before venturing into private practice as Director, Victory Medical Centre, Igbanke, in 1986. He later expanded his outfit with another branch at Boji-Boji, Owa. He endeared himself to his people through his humanitarian disposition as he often rendered free services to the very poor in those locations.
Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has displayed high craftsmanship in his work and the evidence of his constructive leadership manifests in his growing political profile. He rose through the ranks from Secretary to the Local Government, to Chairman of the Council, to Commissioner in several ministries and later as Secretary to the State Government before finally being elected to represent the people of Delta North Senatorial District at the Senate in 2011.
Today as Executive Governor of Delta State, he has made positive impressions in the minds of Deltans in just one year in office. With his approach to leadership, core progressives have come to believe that our democracy is truly yielding desired results. Here is a man who, on many instances, had demonstrated his love for Delta State and Nigeria above pecuniary interests and enjoins others to embrace same. Looking back the past 57 years, his family and indeed his retinue of associates and admirers do have cause to be grateful to Almighty God for having granted him a life of great accomplishments and abiding fulfillment.
Ekwueme! (One who does what he says he will do) is his traditional title and for him, nobility of birth, in a predominantly peasant milieu, was more of a challenge than the comfort it provided. In fact, it was this outlook that has become the fulcrum on which his life and leadership style revolves. In Delta today, the citizens are rightly rich in huge expectations from the Okowa administration. This, in all honesty, is not unfounded because of his pedigree and passion for service.
For Okowa, there is an element of freshness about him even at 57 -freshness of spirit, freshness of ideas, freshness of vision and mission for him as a person, as a leader and for the state he has superintended in the last one year. He is unarguably running a dazzling race of his life as a politician, an administrator and a leader. Despite the numerous successes he has made of all of his endavours, he exudes, yet a seeming urgency to reach the finish line in his chase to get the citizens of the state to the Promised Land.
A year ago, he set the stone rolling by building on his predecessor’s developmental framework. Methodically, he set about adding to the foundation, the necessary ingredients for Delta State to attain its potential through his policy plank- the S.M.A.R.T. Agenda; geared towards bringing prosperity to all Deltans. As an astute politician and lawmaker per excellence, Okowa sees plenty, even in the face of paucity. It is his rare determination to make the most out of nothing that he has been driving all that is needed to ensure Delta State grows in leaps and bounds and eventually raise the bar by setting standards for others. That in marking his one year in office, Governor Okowa spent a whole month in commissioning several landmark projects dotted across the three Senatorial Districts of the state has become a template and a reference point for most of the states today. Through consensus-building, thorny political issues have become free of tumult, acrimony and bad blood. This was made possible by Okowa’s calm persona on a very volatile system. By entrenching core values of selflessness and integrity, he has effectively earned the confidence and trust of his friends and foes alike. He has re-defined the concept of leadership and effective governance by effectively re-orientating the mindset of the political class to see politics as a call to service.
As he clocks 57 years, his track-record in politics and in the leadership of Delta state sure sets him apart as a selfless and passionate leader who burns to put his state on the world developmental map. He detests waste because he is confronted daily by the lack that dots the socio-economic landscape. That is why in the anniversary of his birthday last year, he requested that friends and well wishers should not place goodwill advertorials in the media. He rather urged them to convert such resources to assisting the needy. As he marks yet another anniversary of his birthday, his wish is that Deltans should pray for him and the state in order that what he has lined up in his wish-list for the state would come to fruition. Out of my personal convictions, I write to express my warm felicitations to him on the occasion of his 57th birthday anniversary. As he deservedly celebrates this glorious day, it is my prayer that Almighty God, who has richly prospered him and ordered every of his steps this past years, will continue to bless him with good health and fulfillment in the many more years of worthy service for his people.
Congratulations to His Excellency, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, at 57.
*Charles Aniagwu is Governor Okowa’s Chief Press Secretary.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Kachikwu
THE Niger Delta Indigenous Movement For Radical Change, (NDIMRC) has knocked President Muhammadu Buhari for the removal of Dr Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu as the Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation ( NNPC) and replacing him with the former Group Executive Director, Exploration and Production of the Corporation, Dr Maikanti Kacalla Baru.
After months of pressure mounted by Northern interests led by Dr. Maikanti Kacalla Baru, a former Group Executive Director, Exploration and Production of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to be made the Group Managing Director (GMD) of the state-run oil firm, President Buhari finally succumbed on Monday, July 4,2016 when he removed Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu from oil-rich Delta State as the Corporation’s executive head.
But in a press statement by its President, Nelly Emma; Secretary, John Sailor and Public Relations Officer (PRO), Stanley Mukoro, the group kicked against the sudden removal of Dr Kachikwu as the GMD of NNPC by the President, describing it as unfair treatment not only to the hard-working technocrat, but to the entire people of the neglected oil rich Niger Delta Region.
The group said, “The whole world is our witness that we raised the alarm in April this year that Dr Maikanti Baru was desperate to be the GMD of NNPC and was mounting pressure on the President to sack Kachikwu and now we have been vindicated”.
The oil monitoring group said; “We are sad over the unfair treatment of Dr Kachikwu by the President. The former GMD was committed to the total reforms of NNPC of which Dr Baru was against. By the sacking of the hard-working Dr Kachikwu and replacing him with the desperate Dr Baru, it is now clear to us as a group and the whole world that the President is not serious about his promise to turn NNPC around for the better. The appointment of Dr Baru by the President is not in the best interest of the nation, but to satisfy the interest of the North. The removal of Dr Kachikwu at a most sensitive time, has raised concerns among stakeholders in the region that the administration of President Buhari has remained adamantly unresponsive to the accusations by the militants that some of the local oil firms exploiting the hydrocarbon resources in the Niger Delta Region and polluting the environment belong to non-indigenes of the oil producing communities.”
It added that;” Last April, our findings revealed that the Adviser On Gas to the GMD of NNPC, Dr Maikanti Baru was behind a devilish rumour that Dr Kachikwu was sacked. He has been very desperate to become the GMD of NNPC and we warned President Buhari to be wary of him,but the President never listened. It is unfortunate that the people of the oil-rich Niger Delta Region are being treated this way. Dr Kachikwu brought alot of changes into NNPC and the Cabal in the Oil and Gas Industry never liked him and rather than encouraging him to do more for the sector, the President decided to do otherwise. The President has once again made a big blunder with the appointment of Dr Baru who never wanted the reforms of NNPC embarked upon by Dr Kachikwu.”
The group while accusing the new GMD of NNPC, Dr Baru as one of those who destroyed NNPC that Dr Kachikwu worked round the clock to bring back to life, said that; “Without apology, we want to say that Dr Baru do not mean well for the Corporation. He is a spoiler and has been too desperate to become the GMD of the NNPC. Dr Baru has never liked the reforms in NNPC and such a desperate man should not have been allowed to head NNPC as he will ruin the place that Dr Kachikwu worked so hard to fix up. Dr Baru is not the best man for the job”.
“President Buhari should have fired Dr Baru as suggested by us last April. The new GMD of NNPC has been working with oil Cabal to frustrate the efforts of Dr Kachikwu, especially in his bid to make NNPC a better place. Dr Kachikwu ended the fuel scarcity caused by Dr Baru and his co-travellers and rather than giving him a pat on the back for a job well done, he was removed by the President and replaced with desperate Dr Baru who has nothing to offer,” the group said.
Dr Baru’s appointment,the group held, has raised questions as to whether he can lead negotiations to calm restive militants in the Niger Delta, who have renewed hostilities in the oil-rich region in a wave of attacks on oil industry installations.
The former NNPC boss, Dr Kachikwu, who for eight months had doubled as the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and will now serve as the Chairman of the NNPC board, had led a Federal Government team last month to negotiate a peace deal with the militants.
The group said; “Only last month, the hard-working Dr Kachikwu against threat to his life and members of his family took a risky trip to the troubled Niger Delta Region to see things for himself at the controversial Nigerian Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Gbaramatu Kingdom, in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State and his visit brought hope to the hopeless people of the region. His trip to the area also helped to reduce the spate of attacks on oil facilities by rampaging militants.”
It added that; “The President should have honoured Dr Kachikwu for his hardwork. We must say that we are disappointed with the choice the President made for the NNPC. Can Dr Baru take a trip to the Niger Delta Region? As the new GMD of NNPC, can he plead with rampaging militants in the Niger Delta Region to give peace a chance and they will listen to him? The choice of Dr Baru as the man at the helm of affairs in NNPC by the President is not the best”.
” As an oil monitoring group, we are highly disappointed that the President decided to at this crucial time leave the affairs of the NNPC in the hands of Dr Baru who helped to destroy the Corporation. We are not impressed that President Buhari in his bid to satisfy Northern Nigeria with more juicy positions at the detriment of the oil producing people of the Niger Delta Region left the affairs of NNPC in the hands of a desperate Dr Baru who will only sit in the comfort of his office in Abuja without thinking about the pains the oil producing people of the Niger Delta Region are passing through,” the group stated.
***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
Advertise in Blank NEWS Online.
Visit Us @:
www.blanknewsonline.wordpress.com
Email: blanknewsonline@ymail.com
Phone: +234 8037 644 337 Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
