Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) By Albert OGRAKA–
The Delta state Government has warned residents in the state of the current spread of Lassa Fever disease is in parts of Nigeria.
In separate statements, the Delta State Ministry of Information and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant (Special Duties) to Delta State Governor on Orientation and Social Development (SSA-OSD) have respectively advised on prompt report of any suspected case of Lassa Fever to the nearest hospital or health centre for timely professional care.
A statement made available to Blank NEWS Online by the state Ministry of Information on Saturday, January, 09, 2015 reads:
“It is hereby announced for the information of the general public particularly residents of Delta State that the disease called Lassa Fever is fast spreading in parts of the country.
“Recently, many persons have been affected in Bauchi, Nassarawa, Niger, Taraba, Kano, Rivers, Edo, Plateau, Gombe and Oyo States and there have been reported cases of death of infected persons.
“Lassa fever is caused by a virus. It can be transmitted to human through contamination of broken skin via direct or indirect contact with infected rat excreta or urine on floors, home surfaces, in food or water. Transmission is also possible where rats are caught and consumed as food.
“Person to person transmission occurs through infected bodily fluids, such as blood, saliva, urine, excreta or semen.
“For the avoidance of doubt, early signs of Lassa fever include Cold and Fever, Headache, Body Pains and Sore Throat. Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea or Cough may also occur. Severe cases manifest with swelling of the face and bleeding.
“Prevention of the disease is very important. Residents are advised to avoid direct contact with rats and their excreta or urine. They are also to keep or store food in rat proof containers.
“It is also important that residents avoid contact with bodily fluids of an infected patient to prevent persons to persons spread of the disease by the use of gloves and regular hand washing. Burial of victims must be carried out under strict hygiene conditions.
“Health workers are advised to strengthen the practice of infection control in all public and private health facilities in the state.
“Residents are advised to promptly report to the nearest hospital or health centre any suspected case of Lassa Fever for timely professional care.
“For more information residents are advised to call 08037857479.”
In a similar development, the Office of the Senior Special Assistant (Special Duties) to Delta State Governor on Orientation and Social Development (SSA-OSD) has also embarked on regular SMS and Social Media alerts to all Deltans to be wary of the recent outbreak of the Lassa Fever in parts of the country.
“Dear Deltans, Lassa Fever Alert. 40 Persons Dead across Nigeria. Keep off RATS. Keep environment clean. Report suspicion to nearest Govt. Hospital. –SSA-OSD.”
Lassa Fever: 7 Things You Should Know About The Deadly Viral Illness.
Compiled By Albert OGRAKA on behalf of SSA-OSD
1. Lassa fever is a viral illness
It’s an acute viral illness caused by Lassa virus which was first discovered in Nigeria. Lassa virus is a single-stranded RNA virus that belongs to a family called Arenaviridae. The natural host or reservoir of this virus is a rodent known as the ‘multimammate’ rat that belongs to the mastomys genus. It’s been observed that mastomys rats breed very frequently and readily colonise homes, hence the easy spread of this zoonotic virus from infected rodents to unsuspecting humans.
2. Lassa fever is quite common in West Africa
Lassa virus infections are common enough in West Africa to warrant public health concern. Averagely, about 300000 cases are recorded each year with 5000 deaths. Unfortunately, the present Lassa epidemic in Nigeria has already spanned 7 states and affected at least 150 people with 7 casualties already reported.
3. How is Lassa virus spread to humans?
Humans can contract the virus when they come in contact, directly or indirectly with the urine and droppings from infected rats or by breathing in tiny particles from air that has been contaminated with rodent excretions. Some humans who eat infected rodents can equally contract the virus. Lastly, if adequate precautions are not taken, care givers who handle or treat infected persons can contract the virus from contaminated blood, tissues, secretions or excretions of such patients. However, it cannot be spread through casual skin-to-skin contacts, provided there are no cuts or bruises.
4. Lassa fever usually produces symptoms
Lassa virus has an incubation period of 1 – 3 weeks following which signs and symptoms of the infection emerge. Initially, non-specific symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, back pain, abdominal pain or pain behind the chest wall may be felt as well as vomiting, diarrhoea and facial swelling. As the disease progresses, mucosal bleeding and bleeding from body orifices may follow.
5. Lassa fever can be treated
Provided the affected person presents early enough and prompt diagnosis of Lassa fever is made, an antiviral agent called Ribavirin has been shown to be quite effective in reducing morbidity and mortality from the disease. In addition to ribavirin administration, supportive treatment may also be given to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance as well as the blood pressure.
6. Untreated Lassa fever often results in death
It was estimated that 15 – 30% of patients who are admitted for Lassa fever end up dying from the illness. Moreover, death rates are even higher for pregnant women, especially those in the third trimester and their unborn babies. Sadly, mortality rates in the latter group sometimes approach 95%. Furthermore, up to one-third of Lassa fever survivors may suffer from varying degrees of hearing loss which may be permanent.
7. Lassa fever is better prevented
Prevention is better than cure. Since no vaccine has been developed yet for Lassa virus infection, people must employ every possible means to avoid contact with rodents and infected people. Our homes must be kept clean and rodent-free, foods should be stored in rodent-proof containers. Health care givers must practise barrier nursing methods such as isolation of infected patients and consistent use of face masks, gloves, gowns and goggles when attending to such patients.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) By Julius Oweh–
For the past three weeks or so, I have wrestled with the idea of writing this article. Theissue is not the absence of the muse`s inspirations or materials to write on but I was caught between professional loyality and solidarity and the urge for the truth and high ethical standards that could advance the progress and development of the fourth estate of the realm and by implication the social, political and economic run of the nation. If the professional dilemma conquers and allow the rot and inertia to continue, the Nigerian vibrant press shall be the loser. As a former editor of a state owned newspaper, I experienced the pains and agonies of media ownership and I was a victim of town crier journalism, the euphemism of not seeing anything wrong with the activities of those in government. That is one of the reasons state owned media are not viable and depend on government for financial stability. That plague is subtly creeping into the so called independent media houses. I am talking about the fallout from the former national security adviser overture to newspapers owners.
The news gaining currency is that sometime ago, the Jonathan administration in its avowed bid to stamp out the Boko Haram insurgency decided to confiscate newspapers because of the security report that some terrorists were using them to transport arms across the country. It turned out to be false alarms and to mitigate the consequences of court action against the government, the Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN) and government agreed on out of court settlement of N120 million for the twelve newspapers affected. This deal was under seal until the trial of the former national security adviser and the cover was blown open. Some of the affected newspapers have distanced themselves from the affairs. Peoples Daily, New Telegraph, the Leadership, Tribune and the Guardian have totally denied any relationship with the money and the leadership of NPAN. The Sun newspaper has returned Nine million naira and promised to pursue the case in court. On the part of Punch newspaper, it has suspended its membership of NPAN.
Mrs Funke Egbemode, the managing director and editor in chief of New Telegraph came out with a statement denouncing the NPAN leadership. Listen to her views on the matter :`Therefore, it is nothing but sheer falsehood for the NPAN president who claimed he received the money on behalf of the association, to have included New Telegraph newspapers as one of the beneficiaries of the funds, which as it has now emerged was disbursed by the former NSA`. On the part of NPAN, the executive secretary Mr. Feyi Smith maintained that it was a collective decision of the body to accept the N120 million compensation from the government and that the meeting was held at Daily Trust office, Abuja on March 17, 2015. Smith further said thus on the resolutions of the meeting :`That each member organization accepts to donate N1 million from the compensation to the association for the upkeep of the secretariat and that members should bring their membership account current, by paying all past dues to the secretariat before collecting their cheques`.
Despite the defence of NPAN leadership and the latter day denial of the newspaper houses affected, the whole scenario is very unfortunate and brings to the mud the reputation of media houses. The logic is that if the highest leadership of the fourth estate of the realm can be compromised, what moral authority has the press to lambast political leaders, public office holders and public figures should they stray from the path of moral rectitude. It is highly unfortunate that members of the fourth estate of realm who are supposed to hold the government accountable to the mass of the people are also swimming in the gutter of corruption and dark corners deals. Even more unfortunate is the conspiracy of silence by senior members of the pen fraternity, those opinion and editorial writers who are always around to pontificate on how society can progress. Today they cannot summon enough courage to criticize the activities of NPAN and those newspaper houses that compromised. The danger is that if the society loses its trust of the mass media, the way some senators have passed a vote of no confidence on the social media, then we are in serious trouble. There are ethical standards which the media houses are supposed to obey and the captains of the industry ought to know better. If it was a collective agreement that media houses affected by the seizure of their newspapers should be so compensated, there was no reason to link that to payment of dues to run the NPAN secretariat. If this slip can be forgiven, how do you explain the non-disbursement of the money to some of the affected newspapers houses? Even more scandalous is the inclusion of a newspaper that was not given a dime and not on the list of the original twelve newspapers that were supposed to benefit from the federal government compensation.
There are many shades of journalism practice round the globe. In the advanced countries of the world, there is a brand of journalism that protects the national interest and security of such countries. That is why the press in UK tried to pull wool over eyes some years ago that a man that was found in the bedroom of the queen was a madman. It is this strand of journalism that CNN and other important media houses would not talk about the ghetto in Washington, the gun violence in America and the assimilation of the Red Indians but would rather focus on Ajegunle and crimes in Lagos. The truth of the matter is that there is no ideal mass media in any part of the world and the advent of the internet and social media is making it more complex. In Nigeria, the journalism varieties are many. We have pepper soup journalism, brown envelop journalism, yellow journalism and even corporate blackmail journalism. But the ethical standards of some journalists are the saving grace. That is why committed members of the pen fraternity should condemn without reservations the mess which the one hundred and twenty thousand naira has put the press. As watch dogs of the society, we should have higher ethical standards and the members of the society should not doubt our commitment in the pursuit of truth and justice to benefit of the society. As the English writer, Geoffrey Chaucer once said that if gold should rust, what would happen to iron. The self imposed duty of the watch dog of the society places the burden of living above board on all journalists. It is not too late to correct this professional transgression. ***Read *Julius Oweh, a journalist, Asaba, Delta State.08037768392.
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Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has challenge legionnaires in the state as senior citizens to exhibit very high level of ethical values and self-discipline.
Dr. Okowa who gave the challenge, Thursday, at the launching of the Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem Appeal Fund, held at the Unity Hall, Government House Asaba, noted that this administration will not encourage any organisation that does not believe in the rule of law or respect the fundamental human rights of other citizens.
The state governor who was represented by his deputy, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, asserted that members of the Nigerian Legion as experienced and retired ex-servicemen have the responsibility to see that peace reigns in their various communities and whatever organization they find themselves.
He noted that the government of Delta State has always demonstrated great concern for the welfare of legionnaires in the state and expressed hope that the legion would reciprocate this gesture by organizing themselves and embarking on meaningful projects and programmes that would complement the effort of government to improve the living standard of ex-servicemen.
He said the sale of the Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem which is an annual event and a tradition in the state is aimed at raising funds for the rehabilitation of orphans and widows of our fallen heroes and the surviving disabled ex-servicemen and women in the country and appealed to all Deltans to be part of the programme.
The governor urged Deltans and Nigerians in general to use this period to reflect on the need to avoid future violent conflicts in the society by doing everything possible to promote peace and harmony at all times.
“It is my hope and expectation that the present security challenges facing the nation especially in the North-Eastern and South-Eastern parts of the country do not degenerate further. I will like to use this opportunity to exhort all Nigerians to embrace dialogue and abstain from provocative utterances and action that will create tension in the country”. Okowa stated.
The governor asserted that Nigerians owe it as a duty to the nation to seek the path of peace, reconciliation, justice and equity at all times in order to create a conducive atmosphere for the consolidation of democracy in the land.
Dr. Okowa noted that the Armed forces remembrance week long celebration is designed to accord fallen heroes the honour they deserve for their sacrifices to our fatherland by laying down their lives so that peace may reign.
Earlier, the State Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Delta Chapter, Lt. Col. Daniel Amereh, in an address noted that the day’s events is to mark the flag-off of a week-long program to honour the heroes of world wars 1 and 2 and the Nigerian civil war.
Col. Amereh, noted that the annual event which provides a forum to raise funds for the welfare of disabled soldiers, widows and orphans of soldiers who died during peace-keeping mission and all over the world.
He expressed hope that members will use the occasion to reflect and forge a better understanding of their aspirations as a nation and solicited the assistance of the society.
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“Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household, but he who hates bribes will live.” –James 4:3.. IgbuyaMakinde
The duo of Rt. Hon. Monday Owhigho Igbuya and Olorogun Williams Makinde makes a good story, as both have reached certain peak in their political careers as Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly (DTHA) and Managing Director of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC).
They have also been speculated to be greedy and fairly corrupt fellows who have risen to their present heights because of their level of political contribution to help entrench governance in one way or the other.They both hail from Sapele local government area of Delta State.
Recently, the media was awash with unconfirmed reports of Olorogun Williams Makinde’s height of alleged financial impropriety and bribery among others at the stable of DESOPADEC.
Surprisingly though, Makinde’s DESOPADEC recently cried out that it is currently under intense pressure from the Delta House of Assembly led by Speaker, Monday Igbuya to part with an undisclosed percentage of the Commission’s N28 billion annual allocation in the 2015 budget, as honorarium to legislators before it is passed into law.
Recall that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa had late last year presented N265 billion budget proposal for the 2016 fiscal year to the Delta State House of Assembly, thus setting the stage for agencies/ministries to commence the budget defence procedures of the House.
The unfortunate development has however led to the Managing Director of DESOPADEC, Olorogun Williams Makinde, threatening to resign his position in the Commission following the quibble between him and Igbuya over the commission’s budget.
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MORE than 100 fire incidents ravaged property worth millions of naira in Delta State, during the 2015 Yuletide season, the Commissioner in charge of Bureau for Special Duties, Hon. Chika Ossai has said.
Hon. Ossai made the disclosure during on the spot assessment of fire incidents in different parts of Delta State and visits to the victims.
Accompanied by staff of State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Hon. Ossai visited Asaba, Agbor, Ughelli, Warri, among others, commended the fire fighting skill of staff of Delta State Fire Service which ensured that no life was lost in all the incidents.
“First of all, we give thanks to God that no life was lost, but, it is very sad that at this difficult time in the nation’s economy, Deltans lost their property to fire,” he said, adding, “our Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa is very sad and we join him to commiserate with those who were affected by fire because our men attended to 41 fire incidents in Asaba, 32 incidents in 32, 10 incidents in Agbor and others that we are awaiting documentation.”
The Commissioner added, “from available records and reactions from the fire victims, you can see that the fire fighters were very active during the season, they helped in putting out the fire in several places.”
On what the state government will do to ameliorate the sufferings of those affected by the fire, Hon. Ossai said, “it is unfortunate, the SEMA will collate data and we will see what we can do to assist the victims, but this is time, for all if us to be our brothers keepers by assisting the victims.”
“Obviously, too, we are not to conscious about fire, we are not taking measures to check fire outbreaks; people are still engaged in bush burning,” he said, asserting, “we should learn to switch off our electrical appliances when they are not in use and we should develop a culture of having fire extinguisher.”
The Managing Director of Anioma Petroleum Resources Limited, Asaba, Mr Ukwandi Sylvester, thanked the state Fire Service for their efforts which stopped the fire that ravaged his petrol station from spreading to adjoining structured while the Principal of Ika Grammer School, Agbor, Venerable Charles Okunbor disclosed that the quick response of the fire service also, checked the fire that razed classroom block at Ika Grammer School from spreading to other buildings.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) — From Mcdonald Onu– Ebonyi State Governor, Chief David Umahi,
In keeping with his promise to accord priority to the welfare of workers, the Ebonyi State Governor, Chief David Umahi, has assured workers that their January salaries would be paid on the 15th.
Umahi gave the assurance in his country home, Uburu when the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress paid him New Year homage.
The governor, who noted that he had to step down every project last December to give junior workers 100% extra salary and 50% to senior workers, said “in the next 13 days workers will receive salary for January.”
He stated that the initial misunderstanding he had with the organized labour in the state “was brought by God himself because it made us to be on our toes.”
Umahi attributed the success so far recorded by his administration to God’s instruction, and promised workers of better welfare this New Year.
“There is no how we will implement an N101bn budget without the lives of workers changing, absolutely, no how,” he stressed.
The governor maintained his commitment to implementing the 2016
budget 100%, and assured that his fight against corruption in the state was total.
Umahi told the leadership of the organized labour that after the festive period, “we will try to organize properly and move together as a people.”
He added, “I won’t forget your labour of love; I won’t forget your commitment and I won’t forget all the struggles. We do remember.”
Earlier, in his remark, the Chairman of the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council, Comrade Ikechukwu Nwafor, said the delegation came to identify with the governor in this season of the Yuletide.
Nwafor said, “Labour cannot afford to celebrate this Christmas and New Year without coming to identify with this government and to pray that this year will be a better year for the government and workers of Ebonyi State.”
Meanwhile, Umahi has appealed to the people of Ohaozara Local Government Area to unite to attain greater heights this year.
Speaking when the stakeholders of Okposi Okwu and Mgbom Okposi autonomous communities visited him, the governor regretted that the seed of disunity caused by some disgruntled politicians had robbed the area of meaningful progress.
Umahi informed the stakeholders that the street light project of the state government would be extended to Okposi while the Okposi-Ugwulangwu- Ukawu road would be constructed.
He stressed the intention of his administration to develop the salt deposits in the area into modern salt factories as soon as the necessary tests were carried out to ascertain
their quantity and quality.
The governor also announced that all issues relating to “Ezeship” of Okposi Okwu has been put on hold pending the burial of a former Minister of Education, the late Dr.Igwe Aja Nwachukwu.
He warned the youth against cultism, stating that his administration would not fail to prosecute anyone found to be involved in activities that negated the peace of the area.
Governor Umahi later took some time out to inspect the on-going construction of the Amasiri- Okposi-Uburu Road.
He directed the construction company (Conrock Nigeria Ltd…) to stop further work on the road, pending its deployment of four bulldozers, three graders, ten tipping trucks and four water tankers to the site.
The governor warned that if after 10 days the contractor failed to meet his directive, he would terminate the contract.
Governor Umahi also inspected the failed “Akwa Etiti” bridge which links Amangwu Edda in Afikpo South Local Government Area and Amasiri in Afikpo North LGA.
He said that construction of another bridge would commence in the next four
weeks to save the people of the area from being cut off totally from the rest of the world.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Chief Omene
The Urhobo United Front UUF has berated the ex-President-General of the Urhobo Progress Union UPU, Chief Joe Omene over his comments on the Appeal Court judgment on the Delta Central Senatorial election describing him as the worst misfit in the history of the Urhobo nation.
Rising from a meeting at the weekend in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, the UUF in a statement signed by its National President, Chief Ovie Oghenevo described Chief Omene’s comments on the court verdict as not only self-seeking but misdirected.
The group noted that Omene’s comments further reveals his unquenchable desire to use the platform of the UPU for money making and self-aggrandizement adding that the UPU did not adopt any candidate for the position of Senate for Delta Central Senatorial District in the 2015 elections which was contested by three Urhobo sons.
“We frown seriously at the satanic attitude of Chief Omene who with his lavish lifestyle, womanizing and ostentatious living has started dancing naked in public because there are no contestant for any position to extort money from”.
The UUF observed that Omene’s recent comments in some dailies where is pure sycophancy that he is known for.
“Omene who is today impersonating as an engineer from an institution in Germany is now declaring support for the Labour Party candidate on account of his victory at the Appeal Court and the financial benefit he hopes to gain from him. Those he is attacking today are those who have empowered him beyond his competence” the statement said.
“The outcome of the 2015 elections in Delta Central cannot be said to be predicated on the position taken by the UPU. Others Urhobo candidates for various positions who were purportedly sanctioned by Omene’s fraudulent leadership won their elections and judgments at the Election Petition Tribunal which sat in Asaba and the Appeal Court in Benin-city”.
The Urhobo United Front recalled that Omene had before the 2015 general elections in one of his clandestine moves to Aso Rock in Abuja unilaterally after collecting over a billion naira from the PDP announced the adoption by the UPU of ex-President Goodluck Jonathan.
“It is on record that the squabbles and disagreement that arose over the refusal of Chief Omene to disclose and share the PDP Abuja election money resulted in the crack and split of his executive which could not be reconciled together until the Urhobo traditional rulers took the initiative to formally dissolve the exco”.
“We therefore called for the investigation and probing of the fraudulent activities of Omene in the 2015 general elections whereby he turned the UPU into a making venture. And recommend that Urhobo sons and daughters who in the future seek to occupy positions in the UPU should be people who neither are apolitical nor card carrying members of any political party”.
“Omene’s comments further portray him as an impostor whose reign as UPU President-General has put a taint to the vision of the founding fathers of the apex Urhobo socia-cultural body and the successes recorded by past PGs”.
The UUF takes serious exception to the taboo being committed by Omene in Urhobo over his attack on Urhobo traditional rulers who have in the past years taken similar action that brought the likes of late Chief James Edewor and Chief Benjamin Okumagba to become President-General of UPU.
We therefore call for urgent steps to be taken by members of the Urhobo political class irrespective of party affiliations like the traditional rulers did to save the image of the UPU from the hands of Chief Joe Omene who has antecedents for failure and is bent on continue smearing of the reputed name of the UPU and the Urhobo nation in the committee of nations of the Nigeria State.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –From Dr. Mcdonald Onu– Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State
Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State and former Governor Sam Egwu on Wednesday openly narrated how they outwitted the immediate past governor, Martin Elechi and his allies, to emerge victorious in the April 2015 elections.
They said during a thanksgiving service by Egwu, who is the current Senator representing Ebonyi North senatorial zone, in Umuebe in Ohaukwu Local Government Area that they formed a prayer quartet and handed over their struggle to God. former Governor Sam Egwu
While Egwu, who was the first to disclose this, described Umahi as the arrow head of the struggle,the Ebonyi governor said Egwu’s wife, Eunice, was their consultant.
The senator disclosed that a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim and the deputy of the state, Kelechi Igwe, were the other two members of the quartet.
He told the large gathering which included Anyim and members of the Ebonyi State Executive Council that they found out that Elechi was opposed to his candidature and that of Umahi because he wanted his inlaws to occupy the two positions.
The Senator said, ” I remember a particular day,myself, Pius Anyim,David Umahi, and Kelechi Igwe sat down in the dining room of the former SGF(Anyim) and we prayed about our mission. former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim
“We asked God to support us in the mission we had embarked upon. We knew it was very difficult but we committed it into the hands of God. Four of us prayed that we were going by the grace of God to contest the elections; we prayed that Engr.David Umahi becomes the governor of Ebonyi State; myself to be the senator and Kelechi Igwe to be the deputy governor.
“Of course, senator Anyim said he was not going for any position,but he would solidly be behind us.”
Egwu, who thanked God for answering their prayers, hailed Governor Umahi and
Senator Anyim whom he described as the force behind his victory, and the face of the struggle in Abuja.
He called on political office seekers to always seek God’s endorsement. The outwitted immediate past governor, Martin Elechi
Umahi, in his remark, also narrated the struggle with former governor Elechi,even after he (Elechi) was advised by the the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to allow Egwu and himself to contest the elections.
He disclosed that after their prayers at SGF’s home, they became stronger and more determined to contest the elections.
The governor said, ” We can’t thank you enough our dear Senator Anyim; we can’t thank you enough. You got all the important personalities to help us; you also brought the funds needed alongside with your friends.
“At a time, we were more interested in former governor Egwu going to Senate than myself going for governorship position.”
He praised Eunice Egwu for lending her support to the struggle, adding that she was their main political consultant.
Senator Anyim said he was elated because their prayer for Umahi to become the governor of Ebonyi State and for Egwu to become a Senator was answered by God.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Alex Otti of APGA (left) and Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of PDP (right)
The Court of Appeal, sitting in Owerri has sacked Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), winner of the April 11 Abia state governorship election and the April 25 supplementary election respectively.
The five-member panel of the Court of Appeal, headed by Justice Oyebisi Omoleye, delivered judgement on the election petition on Thursday, December 31, 2015 and declared Alex Otti of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) as the winner of the election, ordering his immediate swearing-in.
The APGA candidate scored 164,444 valid votes to defeat Ikpeazu of the PDP, who secured 114,444 votes.
The justice said the cancellation of the elections held in three local govenment areas, Obingwa, Osisioma Ngwa and Isiala Ngwa, was unlawful. The returning officer has the right to only declare the results, but not to cancel the election.
Omoleye had previously struck out the preliminary objections by Ikpeazu’s (PDP) counsel to the effect that the appeal lacked merit. The court also affirmed the arguments of APGA’s counsel that the members of the panel were wrongfully constituted.
The justice noted that there was no need for a re-run, as the results of the polls show Otti is the genuine winner of the exercise, without any doubt.
The court therefore directed the Independent National Electoral Commission to issue a certificate of return to Otti and conduct the swearing-in.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege
The Senator-elect, Delta Central Senatorial District of Delta State, Obarisi (Barr.) Ovie Omo-Agege, has felicitated with Deltans on the New year and expressed hope that it will be a better year because of the achievement of his mandate to provide the desired leadership, values and precepts for unprecedented prosperity of his Senatorial district.
His New Year message made available to Blank NEWS Online reads:
“As we enter 2016, I want to wish everyone in Delta Central Senatorial District and all around Nigeria a happy and healthy new year.
“With every New Year come greater challenges. 2016 will not be different. But it is a year of promise and possibility. I am hopeful that it will be a better year because of what we achieved together in 2015, when despite all odds we recovered our mandate which was forcefully taken from us. That victory brought us hope and joy.
“And as we prepare to assume this divine mandate with great pride in the new year, we should be hopeful that brighter days are ahead. I am full of confidence that we will record greater success in our battle to free Delta state. All that we need to do is to work together to build on the progress we have made in our effort to create an even brighter future. So let’s begin this new year with a sense of hope and possibility.
“There is no doubt that we face huge challenges and the future seems bleak. Still, there is no need to worry nor be discouraged. The worst time is now behind us. We have turned the tide too. With little more courage, faith and greater effort, we will overcome all of the hurdles that they will throw our way and achieve our promise of a better future.
“The Urhobo nation has never been so marginalised in the political history of our great country. Let’s make 2016 the year when the Urhobo nation starts to rise. I pledge on my honour to offer responsive representation at the hallowed chambers of the Nigerian Senate to uplift the Urhobo nation and restore the dignity of our common patrimony.
“The confidence and trust of the Urhobo people will motivate me to provide the desired leadership, values and precepts that would place our land on the path of unprecedented prosperity
“I will do what is right to bring Urhobo together so we can all rise together. Therefore, I extend my hands of friendship to all Urhobo people, friend and foe alike. Despite your politics, I invite you all to join forces with me in the development of our senatorial district, state and country. With your cooperation and support, we shall make Urhobo and Delta state great, progressive and prosperous.
“As we enter the new year together, let’s resolve to appreciate our common heritage and indivisible ancestry. We are one people with one destiny. What holds us together is much more than our differences. Our political differences are most times superficial, temporary and insignificant.
“We are all brothers and sisters with strong united bonds of age old genealogy. “URHOBO OVUOVO!” Together we shall take Urhobo, Nigeria’s fifth largest ethnic nationality to enviable heights .
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, has felicitated with the people of Delta State, as they mark the New Year, with a call for all to remain united to the course of developing the state- irrespective of ethnic or party differences.
In a statement made available to Blank NEWS Online by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Charles Ehiedu Aniagwu, the governor expressed gratitude to God for all the grace granted Delta and its citizens in 2015 and prayed for unity and peace which, he said, is the bedrock of meaningful development in any given society.
The Governor who expressed the hope that 2016 would be a year of fulfillment said, “Given our strides in the past seven months in office, I have no doubt that, with the same level of cooperation from the good people of Delta, your government would achieve more- in all facets of governance”
“My optimism is driven from the support I enjoy from the legislature, the Judiciary, the Civil Service, my team of political appointees, agencies of government both at the federal and at the state levels as well multilateral donor agencies”
He noted that as one of the first states to form a cabinet after the swearing-in, he was prepared for the task of governance which made him to hit the ground running from day one.
This, he said, has given him and the state the advantage of early starters- both in the appreciation of what Deltans expect from their government and in the development of solutions to meet such expectations.
“In spite of the continued shortfall in the revenue projections, we have been doing our best to ensure that the developmental needs of the state are attended to by applying the level of prudence and ingenuity that the present challenges demand”.
He appealed to all deltans to look up to the New Year with the same zeal of a people with a capacity to excel even in difficult situations and noted that Delta people have always been identified for their creativity.
While thanking Delta compatriots both in Delta and outside of Delta for the outpouring of support for his government, he enjoined all Deltans to continue to make sacrifices when it is demanded to ensure a win-win situation for the state and its people.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – President Buhari and the panelists during his maiden media chat
Despite the falling rate of the Naira against major foreign currencies – US Dollars, British Pounds Sterling and Euros, which has prompted recent clamour for devaluation, Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari says he is not yet convinced on the need to devalue the Naira.
Buhari told the nation during his maiden media chat on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 that: “I will not support devaluation of the Naira.
“I need to be convinced that there is need for the country to devalue the Naira. Is it against the dollar or pound?
“We have our priorities, to provide money to fund the projects we have already outlined, and not for those who want hard currency to import textile and toothpick.
“Personally, I don’t support the devaluation of the Naira. We handed over a secured country in 1979, but by 1984, nobody knew how much Nigeria was owing.
On the fight against corruption, President Buhari promised to prosecute any member of his cabinet who is corrupt.
“By the end of the first quarter of next year, we will tell Nigerians how far we have gone on the fight against corruption.
“I swore by the Holy Koran to defend the country’s constitution and the law. So, we will not put any body above the law.
“I cannot make the mistake of appointing anyone with corruption.
“Whoever is found to be corrupt would not only be sacked but prosecuted.” Abducted Chibok school girls
Reacting to a question on the over 200 Chibok schoolgirls who were abducted by the Boko Haram sect in April, 2014, are yet to be released, Buhari said:
“We are still keeping our option.
“If a credible leadership of Boko Haram is ready for negotiation without any condition we are ready to listen to them.
“We are looking for a credible intelligence that will convince us that the girls are alive.
“That is the honest truth. No credible information.”
He said he was in touch with his counterparts in Chad, Cameroon and Niger Republic but yet, no credible intelligence report on the whereabouts of the girls.
The interview panelists were Channels TV’s Kayode Akintemi (Anchor), Ngozi Anyaegbulam, Media World International; Munir Dan Ali, Daily Trust; and Ibanga Isine, Premium Times.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Igbuya
The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Monday Igbuya on Thursday reminisced on the first seven months of the Sixth Assembly, describing it as “wonderful”
Igbuya in a New Year message to Deltans at home and abroad said that the period would remain evergreen in his memory.
In the message made available to Blank NEWS Online. by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Ebireri Henry Ovie, the Speaker listed the Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency Law, 2015, Delta State Technical and Vocational Education Board Law, 2015, Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Law, 2015, Delta State Appropriation (Amendment) Law, 2015 and the Delta State Contributory Health Commission Law, 2015 as major achievements of the Sixth Legislative Assembly.
Igbuya, who described the performance of his colleagues for the first seven months as impressive, vowed to introduce more growth and reforms in the state.
He urged his colleagues to set new goals to quicken the pace of development in the state.
“I am committed to deepening legislative measures that will support government’s effort at guaranteeing peace, welfare and security of Deltans.
Igbuya did not fail in telling the executive branch of the government on how to make progress.
Indeed, he said Nigeria could no longer depend on oil and gas based economy.
“To grow our way to a higher standard of living in 2016, we must diversify the country’s economy. We must think of new revenue sources”.
He pledged to work with Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to improve the lots of the people of the state.
‘Happiness of the people is the foremost objective of the current administration. The state is taking giant steps forward. Governor Ifeanyi Okowa is leading by building consensus on all issues” he said.
He said the state would be stronger, united and prosperous in 2016.
“2016 is our year of hope and great expectations”
He commended the people for their commitment to democracy and their desire for positive change in the state.
“Whatever political or personal differences we may have, the love for the state should be a shared focus, enough for us to work hand-in-hand for its continued development” he said.
He also urged Nigerians to remain peaceful and united.
Ending the message, he said “I thank God for His bountiful blessings for Delta State. I wish all Deltans a happy, peaceful and prosperous New Year”
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) By Julius Oweh–
The birth of Delta State was mired in political intrigues and controversy as the political and military elites disdained the wisdom that found expression in the centrality of Abuja as the capital of Nigeria and Asaba was chosen as the state capital on the very fringe of the state. Majority of Deltans were not happy but under military dictatorship, they had no choice and have to live with that contraption. If that were the only misfortune of the state, Deltans would not have bothered but were further burden by drought of leadership that have made profession of amassing wealth and not using the resources of the state to develop it and its people. Today after many years of statehood, a dirge is on the lips of committed and patriotic Deltans. Pay a visit to Uyo, capital of Akwa Ibom, you hang your head in shame and you begin to wonder where the people of Delta State recruited their leaders. Go to neighbouring Edo state, the thoughts of transfer of state governors mock your mind.
In midst of this leadership deficit, the elders who are supposed to call the political elites to order are comfortable with the award of contracts which most of the time are not executed. This is not arm chair journalism or infantile product of `bad belly` for the political leadership. This is the reality on the ground as Asaba the state capital is no more than a glorified local government headquarters.
I do not reckon with the activities of military governors for they were mere armies of occupation who pillaged the state with active co-operation of some self serving civil servants. I am talking about the return to democracy in 1999 and what the political elites did with the stupendous oil wealth and the allocations from Abuja. In fairness to Chief James Ibori, he opened up the state capital, built polytechnics, expanded the state university to accommodate the multi ethnic nature of the state with three campuses, built a state of the art teaching hospital and empowered a lot of youths. Some critics are, however, not satisfied with the level of development given the oil revenue. Ibori is cooling his heels in London jail not because he was the most corrupt Nigerian leader but his opposition to the government of President Goodluck Jonathan. It is one of the stunning ironies of Nigeria that the difference between a free man and one in captivity depends on your political camp but there is hope and freshness in the air that the Buhari administration may change all that.
Today, Governor Arthur Okowa, a product of power shift is on the saddle and the story is hardly different. Instead of the government to map out strategic management principles to tackle the variety of problems bequeathed to it by the Uduaghan administration, the government is busy telling civil servants to bring out their primary school leaving certificates. If the aim of the exercise is to fish out those over aged civil servants in the habit of falsifying their years of service, a more ingenious way should have been devised. Instead of the government to address the non payment of pensioners for three years running, the Finance Commissioner gleefully announced that government has released two billion Naira to settle pensioners` claims. Yet the same government failed to tell Deltans the scope of indebtedness to the pensioners. This culture of secrecy of government activities is one of the reasons that had held down the development of the state. After eight years of drifting leadership anchored on slogans, a la three point agenda and Delta beyond oil, of the Uduaghan administration, Deltans are inundated with `prosperity for Deltans` propaganda. It is indeed prosperity for Deltans that Okowa sacked thousands of civil servants immediately after taking the oath of office on May 29. All the reasons advanced by the government for the anti-prosperity move are not just reasonable and smacks of indifference and intolerance. Yet the same government that complained of lack of funds was in a haste to get the nod of the State House of Assembly for ten billion naira loan for yet to be specified project and another five billion naira loan for the completion of the most expensive airport in Nigeria, the Asaba International Airport.
The litany of problems and administrative incompetence plaguing the state are many and numerous. It would take a volume to enumerate all of them and even my journalism colleagues in the state are not helping matters by their oafish indifference to the activities of the political class. You simply gnash your teeth to realize that this is the state that produced Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan who won all the available media awards in his eight years of stewardship. Yet the state radio and television are off the air and the State Information Commissioner is deluding himself about the grand plan to revamp the state owned media houses. If Okowa must avoid the pitfalls of the previous administrations, he must leave the realm of slogans and propaganda and face governance with determination and uncommon courage. His government is becoming too much of a crowd. There are too many political aides doing nothing and just a show of gratitude for political hatchet jobs done. What of the crowd of thirty-two elders’ council advisory committee? What of the numerous political advisers and commissioners? Is not a case of duplication of services and that such monies could be ploughed into more productive ventures? What are the roles of Asaba Capital Territory Development Agency, the Ministry of Works, Direct Labour Agency and the Ministry of Urban Renewal? My brain is becoming dizzy. It is hoped that Okowa despite his promise of Pan Deltan agenda and prosperity for all policy would not end up worse than previous administration?
Governance is a serious business that tasks the intellect of those in office. Okowa manifests the essence of the philosopher-king by his academic training, a medical doctor. But the fear is that he regales himself with a lot of sycophants, people who have pathological hatred for the truth. The dirge for Delta is not for lack of resources but the inability and in some cases, obvious refusal of the government to address the needs of the people and rather pander to some ego driven programmes. This is a trying period for the Okowa administration. I rest my case.
Julius Oweh, a journalist, Asaba, Delta State. 08037768392
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Shehu Sani Blank NEWS Online.can disclose why Shehu Sani, the prisoner and now Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria got his arse kicked out of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and also banned from engaging in party activities in Kaduna State during the 11 months period of suspension.
The Tudun Wada ward of the All Progressives Congress in Kaduna State, on Monday, suspended the senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial zone, Shehu Sani, from the party, which was expressly supported by the state chapter of the APC.
Although the party had listed Sani’s offences to include, uttering statements that allegedly “violate the rules of engagement of the party, factionalizing the party, and engaging in anti-party activities by criticizing the policies of Governor Nasir El-Rufai,” the nitty-gritty of the suspension was “that his (Shehu Sani) statement on national issues is not in conformity with that of the state government and government of Kaduna State,” the statement read.
Some of the unfortunate and inciting statements by Shehu Sani, who is currently the Senate Committee Chairman on Local & Foreign Debts include: calling of President Mohammadu Buhari to fulfil an alleged agreement with leaders of Boko Haram Islamist terrorists, as well as to declare Nigeria a full Islamic state and Implement Sharia law across Nigeria.
In a letter to the senator dated December 27, the party said the suspension is for a period of 11 months. The letter was signed by the Secretary of the ward, Ahmed Abdulhamid, the Public Relations Officer, Auwal Mai Anguwa, and ex-officio member, Aminu Alilan.
The state chapter of the APC also said the senator had chosen to remain in constant confrontation with the government of Kaduna State.
Meanwhile, in a sudden twist, the Tudun Wada Ward executives of the All Progressives Congress in Kaduna State, on Tuesday dissociated themselves from Monday’s suspension of Senator Shehu Sani from the party.
The Secretary of the ward, Ahmed Abdulhamid; the Public Relations Officer, Auwal MaiAnguwa and ex-officio member, Aminu Alilan, who purportedly signed the suspension letter claimed their signatures were forged.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –With Agency Reports–
The Chinese government on Sunday changed its long-standing one-child policy to allow couples to have two children. Originally put in place in the 1970s to cut out of control population growth, but China now faces an aging population and shrinking work force.
The Chinese lawmakers on Sunday ended the country’s decades-old one-child policy, allowing for couples to have two children. The new law will take effect Friday.
The National People’s Congress Standing Committee — the group that governs China’s laws — officially changed ended the longtime birth control policy after the government announced in October plans to amend the restriction.
The new law came about from China’s latest struggle with population control. When Deng Xiaoping instituted the law in the late 1970s, he said his law ensured “the fruits of economic growth are not devoured by population growth.”
Now, it’s an aging population and shrinking work force that threatens the country’s economic growth.
“To promote a balanced growth of population,” the Communist Party Central Committee said in October, “China will continue to uphold the basic national policy of population control and improve its strategy on population development.
“China will fully implement the policy of ‘one couple, two children’ in a proactive response to the issue of an aging population.”
The Chinese government considered the one-child policy an example of their power to engineer their society, but forced abortions, forced sterilizations, child abandonment and heavy fines for those in rural communities was a regular source of anger for many Chinese. Infanticide also became more common in rural areas where boys where favored over girls.
But in recent years, the government began to loosen its grip. Rural couples could have a second child if the first was a girl. In 2013, a new allowance was added for couples to have a second child if either parent was an only child.
The new policy is not likely to set off another population explosion. The current population of 1.3 billion in China is expected to grow to 1.45 billion in 2029. Also, many couples chose not to have a second child, even after they were allowed, because of the cost and demands of raising children.
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Nigeria’s Federal Government has announced a-two-naira cut from the current pump price of N87 per Litre of petrol making the product to sell at N85 per Littre and also scrapped the controversial fuel subsidy regime with effect from Jan 1, 2016.
Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, who made the disclosu’re while inspecting the the Port Hacourt Refinery Company (PHRC) plant on Friday, December 25, said the present realities in the crude market had necessitated the need to end the subsidy regime.
He said the Federal Government would soon release the new price template of the Petroleum Product Pricing Regulation Agency (PPPRA).
Kachikwu, who is also the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said: “like I said, we have done a modulation calculation and it is showing us below N87. I imagine that if PPPRA publishes it today, it will become effective immediately. But the 1st of January that is when we are looking at.”
He emphasised that recent government’s analysis and research indicates that the country can fluctuate the fuel market in accordance with the crude oil market fundamentals.
Kachikwu explained that government can no longer afford to subsidize the product following the fraud that has attended the operations of the Petroleum Support Fund otherwise known as oil subsidy.
“It is out. I signed off on it (Thursday). I imagined that in the next couple of days the marketers would get advice on that. The nice thing about the PPPRA, where I signed off on it yesterday is that the price will be far below N87.
“So for the first time people will understand that the pricing modulation I was talking about is not a gimmick. It is for real. We have gone to find out how we will be able fluctuate this market to reflect what the reality of crude market is. The objective is that one, we cannot afford to continue to subsidize.
“We can’t even understand where those subsidies were going to. There is a lot of fraud elements in it so we need to cut that off. The second is the earning capacity of the Federal Government is deteriorating by the day with lower prices of crude and come out more.”
He said from the briefing he got from the inspection of the refineries , they are close to re-opening. “In the next one week, we are ready to see products out of here.”
Kachikwu, however revealed that a lot of the rehabilitation of the refinery was being done with intensive manual labour of the staff since paucity of fund affected the holistic change that is required in the factory.
According to him, “about 5.5million litres daily of PMS is expected from the refinery in the next few days. Other products to come from the plants are AGO, Kero and others. Where we love to be is to have half of the consumption of this country at the refineries at the minimum, which is about 20million litres. But where we are with the sleepless night I have had in the last few weeks any molecule is significant.
“Kaduna will still be doing 2.3million. Let’s start from there. And that is doing 60 per cent performance. This is still an assumption. I will like to see them getting closer to 80 or 90. By the time they do that we will be getting 11 to 12 million litres out of this place.”
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Senator Godswill Akpabio
An indication that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has become jitery over the likelihod of losing the control of Akwa Ibom state to the All Progressive Congress (APC) as a result of Court order to conduct fresh governorship election, has led PDP stakeholders in Akwa Ibom North West Local Government Area to pass a vote of confidence on President Muhammadu Buhari.
Inconsistent Senator Godswill Akpabio (PDP-Akwa Ibom North West), in a surprise turn of loyalty, said that the PDP stakeholders were in support of Buhari’s war on corruption and terrorism, even as he expressed optimism that the PDP would be victorious if a rerun of the governorship election was held in the state, urging supporters of the PDP in the state to remain calm following the nullification of the governorship election of April 11 by the Appeal Court sitting in Abuja.
The stakeholders meeting held on Friday in Essien UdI’m, where Akpabio, who is Senate Minority Leader, alleged that some people wanted to use the president victory’s in the 2015 general elections to foment trouble in the country.
“My Senatorial District PDP stakeholders passed a vote of confidence on Mr President and supported his anti-terrorism and anti-corruption war.
“We are urging him not to allow people to use his victory to foment trouble in the country so that Nigerians can have peace,” Akpabio said.
He said that the stakeholders’ meeting was convened to review the state of things in the senatorial district as well as Akwa Ibom and the nation.
Meanwhile, some PDP leaders in the state have expressed shock over Akpabio’s actions, citing his recent embattlement on the issues of his ordeal with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged N108.1b fraud, alleged ownership of Lekki Gardens Estate, among others as cause of the embarrassment he has caused the state.
They also expressed fear that PDP is no longer certain of being victorious at the forthcoming re-run gubernatorial polls, considering his antics and selfish interests but clever Akpabio has consistently denied all allegations.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –By Reuben Abati– Reuben Abati
Christmas looks so different these days from what it was when I was growing up. It is so different it is almost unrecognizable. In this same country, in the 70s, Christmas was a season of celebration, but also of spiritual upliftment, joy abundant, hope, reaffirmation of faith in the certainty of Salvation, and the ritual of that which begins, and that which ends, as a New Year beckoned. We were brought up on a steady diet of Sunday School lessons, and so Christmas and Easter were very much a part of our growing up. We always looked forward to Christmas with excitement. It was that time of the year when we all wanted to act one role or the other in the re-enactment of the drama of Nativity.
The preparation for this drama, which was usually staged during Christmas service, to the sound of melodious songs and priestly excitement, was the high point on Christmas Day of the celebration of Christ The Lord. Weeks earlier, the church organized Christmas Carols. If you made the special choir, you felt as if you had won a lottery. Everyone was a songster of sorts, belting out Christmas Carols in both English and the local language. Parents singing. Children singing. Everyone dancing. The feel-good mood was so intense. You could run into people on the streets and the standard greeting, be they Muslims or Christians, was “Merry Christmas!” The official church Carol team went from one church member’s home to another to deliver the good tidings of the season and to announce the coming birth of the Saviour. Christmas strengthened our sense of community, and our Christianity and faith as well.
It was also that time of the year for the reinforcement of family values. People whom you had not seen for the whole year travelled home from their stations to be part of Christmas. You got the chance to meet cousins, make new friends, and sing till you almost went hoarse. I wasn’t much of a singer or drummer- my friends used to laugh each time I missed a note or a beat and we would spend weeks afterwards mimicking each other. In short, Christmas was real fun. But it was relatively a simple, inexpensive celebration, year after year. Our parents did not have to borrow, or go bankrupt, or agonize, for Christmas to be meaningful.
We got one or two new clothes and shoes: those were the usual Christmas gifts. On Christmas day, after church, lunch didn’t have to be anything extra-ordinary: it was no more than rice and chicken. In those days, chicken was a special delicacy, reserved for Sundays, or special occasions like birthdays or Christmas, very much unlike now that every child acquires the taste for tasty chicken from the womb! On Boxing Day, we either visited friends or stayed home, and played with firecrackers and bangers on the streets. Those children who could not afford bangers were not left out. They improvised with local devices made by blacksmiths. That contraption produced even better effect.
Our Muslim friends usually joined us, but they always teased us. In those days, Muslims and Christians celebrated religious festivals together, without any hang-ups about the difference in faith. Virtually every family had Muslim and Christian branches. Give it to Muslims, however, their own seasons were usually more elaborately and colourfully celebrated. They slaughtered rams during the Eid el-Kabir and were generous, handing out gifts of fried meat to family friends and acquaintances. During that festival also known as Ileya, the major Muslim festival, you could acquire a whole bucket-load of meat to sustain the family soup pot for weeks, without being a Muslim and without buying a ram.
Christians were not known to be that generous. Every Christian family was governed by rules of restraint. And so, Christmas restricted themselves to the killing of chicken or turkey; some families did not even bother to slaughter anything at all, and they did not violate any religious code, and in any case, Christians didn’t feel obliged to share meat with neighbours. The effect was that Muslim relations and friends had this funny song, which was a friendly way of accusing Christians of being stingy. “Ko s’ina dida nbe; Ko s’ina dida nbe, K’olorun ko so wa d’amodun o, ko s’ina dida nbe”. The truth is that nobody took offence, nobody considered the songs derisory, instead the teasing by Muslims attracted shared laughter. Even if there was no meat to share among the entire neighbourhood, there was more than enough fun to go round as many Muslim children joined us to shoot the bangers and make lots of noise. Many of them in fact knew the Christmas songs; they also joined us to stage in our own neighbourhood then, what was called the Christmas masque, or in Yoruba: “Mebo”.
The Mebo was a simple enactment, a blend of the secular, the profane and the religious, drawing its elements from a syncretic base. The Masque or Mebo was dressed like a Masquerade: his face was not supposed to be seen. He was the main attraction, backed by drummers and singers: we used pots and pans and maybe our mouths as drums. The masque danced and led the songs:
“Iya Kaa’le o
Wa dagba wa darugbo
Baba Ka’ale o
Wa dagba wa darugbo
Mebo yo robo
E ba mi wa so mi soro
Mebo O yo robo o
E ba mi wa so mi soro.
There is nothing Christianly about this type of song, but for us, growing up, we celebrated Christmas in the neighbourhood, mixing elements of all the religions and all the available modes. Even children of Egungun worshippers joined the Christmas celebration. And so we could start with Mebo yo robo, and shift to “We wish you a Merry Xmas…Good tidings we bring… Hark! The Herald Angels Sing… E lu agogo E lu agogo, E lu agogo o Olugbala de o, e lu agogo…Keresimesi, Keresimesi, …” followed by other songs in Yoruba, which connected well with the community and did not attract any objections. We went from one house to the other and some people would give the Mebo money, which we shared thereafter and used to buy more bangers and firecrackers. We went round night after night until Christmas Eve.
Our parents did not discourage us, knowing that it was all in the spirit of the season. They also did not have to worry about anyone getting kidnapped, or getting into any form of danger. It was a different Nigeria in those days. Those were the days of innocence when children were brought up to shun any form of ostentation and conspicuous consumption. It was the season of joy and contentment. Just as we celebrated Christmas in the town, there was also as much excitement in the villages. The prospect of a New Year, a week after, always made the season special.
But Christmas today is different. It has become a commercial enterprise for many families and investors, with little or no emphasis on the spiritual dimension. I don’t hear too many children going from house to house even in the same old town where I grew up, singing Christmas Carols. This new generation does not know Mebo. But they know Santa in Naija on their phones and similar animations. In our time, we talked about Father Christmas; today’s children refer to him as Santa Claus. There is no sense of community anymore, only a sense of rising expenses and religious isolationism. Many churches cannot even organize house-to-house Carols. Parents are reluctant to let their children go out to any stranger’s house, be they Christians or whoever. They don’t want their children kidnapped; they don’t want their daughters to be raped. Some of the churches have no buses, or they cannot even afford to buy fuel at N130 per litre. If anybody shows up at anybody’s door, singing Christmas Carols, these days, the door is likely to remain shut. The times are truly different. You can never know who the visitors are: they could be a band of armed robbers, dancing their way to your doorstep, to gain entrance and inflict harm.
I don’t see the excitement of old anymore. Many average families cannot even afford to travel home for Christmas. The cost is too high. The city of Lagos used to look deserted close to Christmas, because virtually all the non-Lagosians would have returned to their villages to celebrate Christmas and New Year with their kith and kin. This year, Lagos traffic is still as busy as ever. People are staying back. Even the more privileged families also don’t want to go to the village. They are afraid of being mobbed by all kinds of relatives looking for help. It is easier to tell people you did not see their text messages, or the account numbers they sent, even when you have not announced that you have surplus money to give away, but to go to the village and see them face-to-face, could be quite an ordeal. I have listened to various tales of harassment, reported by persons who have had to tolerate that cousin who has just taken a third wife, who wants to be supported to maintain the woman, or that in-law who wants to buy a motorcycle and his body language is like if he doesn’t get the support he wants, he’d be tempted to recall his daughter!
I really haven’t heard those peals of laughter that used to be the main feature of Christmas anymore. What I see is the sheer anxiety on people’s faces. Christmas has become so expensive. Many parents are practically panicking! The children of today are not interested in Christmas rice and chicken: that stopped being a special delicacy a long time ago. They want expensive gifts. And there are many capitalists cashing in on the taste of today’s children, to provide a variety of services and items that dig holes in a parent’s pockets. One parent remarked that he really does not know what to do. His salary has not been paid. His children would like to experience Christmas. His wife wants a special gift. His children look like they don’t want their Christmas to be “inconclusive.” But in January, he will also have to pay their school fees for the new term.
On top of it all, our society today is more divided than it was even after the civil war. Our laughter is shorter; our hopes are slimmer. We will celebrate Christmas all the same because we are a people of faith and hope..…Well, “don’t worry, be happy!” Merry Christmas.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta State Governor, Senator and Dame Edith Okowa during the Governor’s Appeal Court Victory thanksgiving at the Government House Chapel in Asaba. PIX: BRIPIN ENARUSAI
DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has defeated his gubernatorial opponents, Chief Great Ogboru of the Labour Party (LP) and Olorogun O’tega Emerhor of the All Progressive Congress (APC) at the Court of Appeal in a judgment delivered in Abuja.
The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja dismissed the appeal filed by Chief Great Ogboru, the Labour Party’s (LP) governorship candidate in 2015 governorship election in Delta state, challenging the judgment of the state Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, which affirmed the election of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
In his ruling on Thursday, December 24, Justice Uwani Abba-Aji said that Ogboru’s appeal lacked merit and further upheld the Tribunal ruling, which had earlier dismissed the LP’s guber candidate petition.
Earlier this year, LP’s candidate filed his petition before the tribunal challenging the Independent National Electoral Commission’s declaration of Okowa of the Peoples Democratic Party as winner of the poll.
In the petition, he alleged that there was overvoting as the number of total votes recorded exceeded the number of voters accredited by the card readers.
Insisting that the conduct of the poll did not comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act, Ogboru asked the tribunal to nullify the results of the poll and order a rerun. However, the tribunal sitting in Asaba dismissed the petition for lacking merit.
Victorious Senator Okowa said “In the last few days, there has been a lot of rumours, a lot of speculations but, we continued to trust in the Lord, I thank God for His faithfulness and I appreciate all Deltans for your prayers and support, the wish of Deltans expressed in the April 2015 elections have been upheld.
“it is time they (my opponents) have a rethink, it is time for peace to reign in Delta State, we believe that Delta State is one and we need to live as brothers and sisters.
“There is room for reconciliation, for peace, we must continue to build bridges, we must continue to do those things that unites us as a people, Delta State is greater than all of us and if their ambition is all about Delta State and not personal, they should join us in taking Delta State to greater heights.”
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday, December 22, 2015 presented the 2016 budget to a joint session of the National Assembly.
The zero-based budget comes to N6.08 trillion with a revenue projection of N3.86 trillion and a deficit of N2.22 trillion.
“The deficit, which is equivalent to 2.16% of Nigeria’s GDP, will take our overall debt profile to 14% of our GDP. This remains well within acceptable fiscal limits. Our deficit will be financed by a combination of domestic borrowing of N984 billion, and foreign borrowing of N900 billion totalling N1.84 trillion”, President Buhari told the lawmakers.
The budget is based on a benchmark price of $38 per barrel and a production estimate of 2.2 million barrels per day for 2016. Oil prices according to Organisation of Oil Producing Countries(OPEC) today stood at $30.74 per barrel. He noted that the 2016 budget is designed to revive the economy, deliver inclusive growth to Nigerians and create a significant number of jobs.
“Over the medium term, we expect to increase revenues and reduce overheads, to bring the fiscal deficit down to 1.3% of GDP by 2018.
He said 2016 borrowings will be principally directed to fund capital projects.
“To deliver our development objectives, we have increased the capital expenditure portion of the budget from N557 billion in the 2015 budget to N1.8 trillion, in the 2016 budget.
“Furthermore, the sum of N113 billion will be set aside for a Sinking Fund towards the retirement of maturing loans; while N1.36 trillion has been provided for foreign and domestic debt service. This calls for prudent management on our part, both of the debt portfolio and the deployment of our hard earned foreign exchange earnings”, he said.
According to him, oil related revenues are expected to contribute N820 billion in 2016, while non-oil revenues, comprising Company Income Tax (CIT), Value Added Tax (VAT), Customs and Excise duties, and Federation Account levies, will contribute N1.45 trillion.
“Finally, by enforcing strict compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007 and public expenditure reforms in all MDAs, we have projected up to N1.51 trillion from independent revenues.
“This is a fulfilment of our promise to align expenditure to our long-term objectives, and a sign of government’s commitment to sustainable development.
This increased capital expenditure commits significant resources to critical sectors such as Works, Power and Housing – N433.4 billion; Transport – N202.0 billion; Special Intervention Programs – N200.0 billion; Defence – N134.6 billion; and Interior – N53.1 billion. These investments in infrastructure and security are meant to support our reforms in the Agriculture, Solid Minerals and other core job creating sectors of our economy.
He said he has directed the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation(NNPC) to work out measures to keep pump price of petrol at N87 per litre, adding that the current fuel scarcity with long queues at petrol stations all over the country causing social dislocation is very unfortunate.
“Government profoundly apologizes to Nigerians for this prolonged hardship and misery. It is as a result of market speculators and resistance to change by some stakeholders. Government is working very hard to end these shortages and bring fuel to the pumps all over the country”, he said.
He said government plans to employ 500,000 undergraduates and NCE teacher as part of effort to improve standards in public schools.
Full text of the 2016 budget.
PROTOCOLS
I am honoured and privileged to present the 2016 Budget proposal. This is my first address before this joint session of the National Assembly. I have come here today, not only to address members of the National Assembly, but also to speak directly to the men and women who placed us here.
2.I know the state of our economy is a source of concern for many. This has been further worsened by the unbridled corruption and security challenges we have faced in the last few years. From those who have lost their jobs, to those young people who have never had a job, to the people in the North East whose families and businesses were destroyed by insurgents, this has been a difficult period in our nation’s history, lessons that we must not forget or ignore, as we plan for the future.
3.By June 2014, oil prices averaged $112 per barrel. But as at today, the price is under $39 per barrel. This huge decline is having a painful effect on our economy. Consumption has declined at all levels. In both the private and public sectors, employers have struggled to meet their salary and other employee related obligations. The small business owners and traders have been particularly hard hit by this state of affairs.
4.Fellow Nigerians, the confidence of many might be shaken. However, I stand before you today promising that we will secure our country, rebuild our economy, and make the Federal Republic of Nigeria stronger than it has ever been.
5.The answers to our problems are not beyond us. They exist on our farmlands; our corporations; in the universities in the hearts and minds of our entrepreneurs; through the gallantry of our Armed Forces; and the resolute spirit of Nigerians, especially the youth, who have refused to give up despite all the obstacles confronting them.
6.This Budget proposal, the first by our Government, seeks to stimulate the economy, making it more competitive by focusing on infrastructural development; delivering inclusive growth; and prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians. We believe that this budget, while helping industry, commerce and investment to pick up, will as a matter of urgency, address the immediate problems of youth unemployment and the terrible living conditions of the extremely poor and vulnerable Nigerians.
7.In the medium to longer term, we remain committed to economic diversification through import substitution and export promotion. This will build resilience in our economy. It will guarantee that the problems we have today, will not confront our children and their children. This shall be our legacy for generations to come.
2015: A Year of Global and Domestic Challenges
8.Today, it is widely acknowledged that the global economy has slowed down. This is particularly the case with emerging markets such as Nigeria. However, despite the weak emerging market growth rates, our domestic security challenges, declining oil prices, and the attendant difficulties in providing foreign exchange to meet market demands, the Nigerian economy grew by 2.84% in the third quarter of 2015.
9.We have, and will continue to implement strategies that will maintain macroeconomic stability and manage the oil price shocks we are experiencing.
10. Upon the inauguration of this administration on 29th May 2015, we engaged key stakeholders from various sectors of our economy and interfaced with the heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in order to understand the true state of our nation. What we found prompted us to take certain strategic decisions.
11.On the economy, we injected new leadership at the helm of our revenue generating agencies including the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), and the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS). We implemented the Treasury Single Account (TSA) which, so far, has provided greater visibility of Government revenues and cash flows. We intervened to support States to navigate their fiscal challenges by restructuring their commercial bank loans and by providing facilities to enable them to pay salary arrears.
12.We have demonstrated a strong will to fight corruption. I am sure you will agree that the sheer scale of corruption and impunity of the past explains in part, the economic challenges we now face. On these initiatives, and the many more to come, we shall not be deterred. We will pursue the recovery of everything that belongs to the people of Nigeria. No matter where it is hidden. No matter how long it will take.
2015 Budget Performance
13. Distinguished and honourable members of the National Assembly, I now present a review of the 2015 Budget. That Budget was based on a benchmark oil price of $53 per barrel, oil production of 2.28 million barrels per day and an exchange rate of N190 to the US$.
14.The projected revenue was N3.45 trillion, with an outlay of N4.49 trillion, implying a deficit of N1.04 trillion. Due largely to under-provisioning by the previous administration for fuel subsidy and the costs required to support the military operations in the North East, the Government had to obtain National Assembly’s approval for a supplementary budget of N575.5 billion. I take this opportunity to thank all members of the National Assembly for the prompt passage of that Bill.
2016: Budget Assumptions
15. After reviewing the trends in the global oil industry, we have set a benchmark price of $38 per barrel and a production estimate of 2.2 million barrels per day for 2016. We have focused on non-oil revenues by broadening our tax base and improving the effectiveness of our revenue collecting agencies.
16.Also, with the full implementation of the Treasury Single Account, we expect significant improvements in the collection and remittance of independent revenues. To further support the drive for increased remittances, we will ensure that all MDAs present their budgets in advance, and remit their operating surpluses as required by section 22 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act.
17.We are determined to ensure that our resources are managed prudently and utilized solely for the public good. To set the proper tone, one of our early decisions was the adoption of a zero based budgeting approach, which ensures that resources are aligned with Government’s priorities and allocated efficiently. This budgeting method, a clear departure from previous budgeting activities, will optimize the impact of public expenditure.
18. In addition to the proper linkage of budgeting to strategic planning, we are enhancing the utilization of the Government Integrated Financial Management Information Systems (GIFMIS) to improve financial management. The recently established Efficiency Unit is working across MDAs to identify and eliminate wasteful spending, duplication and other inefficiencies. We engaged costing experts to scrutinize the 2016 budget proposals. They have already identified certain cost areas that can be centralized for economies to be made.
19.We have directed the extension of the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS) to all MDAs to reap its full benefits. We will also strengthen the controls over our personnel and pension costs with the imminent introduction of the Continuous Audit Process (CAP). These initiatives will ensure personnel costs are reduced. Our commitment to a lean and cost effective government remains a priority, and the initiatives we are introducing will signal a fundamental change in how Government spends public revenue.
2016: Laying the Foundation for Sustainable Growth
20.The 2016 budget, as outlined, is designed to ensure that we revive our economy, deliver inclusive growth to Nigerians and create a significant number of jobs.
21.We aim to ensure macroeconomic stability by achieving a real GDP growth rate of 4.37% and managing inflation. To achieve this, we will ensure the aligning of fiscal, monetary, trade and industrial policies.
22. As we focus on inclusive growth, we are conscious of the current rate of unemployment and underemployment. This is a challenge we are determined to meet; and this budget is the platform for putting more Nigerians to work. I can assure you that this administration will have a job creation focus in every aspect of the execution of this budget. Nigeria’s job creation drive will be private sector led. We will encourage this by a reduction in tax rates for smaller businesses as well as subsidized funding for priority sectors such as agriculture and solid minerals.
23. As an emergency measure, to address the chronic shortage of teachers in public schools across the country, we also will partner with State and Local Governments to recruit, train and deploy 500,000 unemployed graduates and NCE holders. These graduate teachers will be deployed to primary schools, thereby, enhancing the provision of basic education especially in our rural areas.
24.We also intend to partner with State and Local Governments to provide financial training and loans to market women, traders and artisans, through their cooperative societies. We believe that this segment of our society is not only critical to our plan for growing small businesses, but it is also an important platform to create jobs and provide opportunities for entrepreneurs.
25.Furthermore, through the office of the Vice President, we are working with various development partners to design an implementable and transparent conditional cash transfer program for the poorest and most vulnerable. This program will be implemented in phases. Already, the compilation of registers of the poorest persons is ongoing. In the coming weeks, we will present the full programme, which will include our home-grown public primary school feeding and free education for science, technology and education students in our tertiary institutions. Indeed, this will mark a historic milestone for us as a nation.
The 2016 Budget
26.Distinguished members of the National Assembly, I now present, the 2016 Budget proposals of the Federal Government. Based on the assumptions I presented earlier, we have proposed a budget of N6.08 trillion with a revenue projection of N3.86 trillion resulting in a deficit of N2.22 trillion.
27.The deficit, which is equivalent to 2.16% of Nigeria’s GDP, will take our overall debt profile to 14% of our GDP. This remains well within acceptable fiscal limits. Our deficit will be financed by a combination of domestic borrowing of N984 billion, and foreign borrowing of N900 billion totaling N1.84 trillion. Over the medium term, we expect to increase revenues and reduce overheads, to bring the fiscal deficit down to 1.3% of GDP by 2018.
28.In 2016, oil related revenues are expected to contribute N820 billion. Non-oil revenues, comprising Company Income Tax (CIT), Value Added Tax (VAT), Customs and Excise duties, and Federation Account levies, will contribute N1.45 trillion. Finally, by enforcing strict compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007 and public expenditure reforms in all MDAs, we have projected up to N1.51 trillion from independent revenues.
29.Although we are working to diversify our economy, we will not lose sight of the need to restructure the oil and gas sector which has been marred by corruption and plagued with inefficiencies. Accordingly, I have directed the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) to adjust its pricing template to reflect competitive and market driven components. We believe this can lower input costs and attain efficiency savings that will enable PPPRA to keep the selling price for all marketers of petrol at N87 per liter for now.
30. The current fuel scarcity with long queues at petrol stations all over the country causing social dislocation is very unfortunate. Government profoundly apologizes to Nigerians for this prolonged hardship and misery. It is as a result of market speculators and resistance to change by some stakeholders. Government is working very hard to end these shortages and bring fuel to the pumps all over the country.
31.I have also directed the NNPC to explore alternate funding models that will enable us to honour our obligations in Joint Ventures (JVs) and deep offshore fields. We are confident that these measures can be achieved and will lower the burden that the traditional cash calls have imposed on our budget and cash flows as well as contribute towards shoring up our national reserves.
32.To deliver our development objectives, we have increased the capital expenditure portion of the budget from N557 billion in the 2015 budget to N1.8 trillion, in the 2016 budget. Distinguished and honourable members of the National Assembly, for the first time in many years, capital expenditure will represent 30% of our total budget. In future years we intend to raise the percentage allocation for capital expenditure.
33.This is a fulfillment of our promise to align expenditure to our long-term objectives, and a sign of government’s commitment to sustainable development. This increased capital expenditure commits significant resources to critical sectors such as Works, Power and Housing – N433.4 billion; Transport – N202.0 billion; Special Intervention Programs – N200.0 billion; Defence – N134.6 billion; and Interior – N53.1 billion. These investments in infrastructure and security are meant to support our reforms in the Agriculture, Solid Minerals and other core job creating sectors of our economy.
34.We will invest to safeguard lives and property.
35.We will invest in equipping our farmers with the right tools, technology and techniques.
36. We will invest in empowering and enabling our miners to operate in a safe, secure and humane environment.
37.We will invest in training our youths, through the revival of our technical and vocational institutions, to ensure they are competent enough to seize the opportunities that will arise from this economic revival.
38. Indeed, the future looks bright. And I ask that we all work together to make this vision a reality. The 223% year on year growth in capital expenditure demonstrates our desire to make Nigeria more competitive, and start the journey to deliver sustainable development in our country.
39.In fulfillment of our promise to run a lean government, we have proposed a 9% reduction in non-debt recurrent expenditure, from N2.59 trillion in the 2015 Budget to N2.35 trillion in 2016. Furthermore, we have budgeted N300 billion for Special Intervention Programs, which takes the total amount for non-debt recurrent expenditure to N2.65 trillion.
39.As I mentioned earlier, the Efficiency Unit set up by this Administration together with effective implementation of GIFMIS and IPPIS will drive a reduction of overheads by at least 7%, personnel costs by 8% and other service wide votes by 19%. Distinguished and honourable members, this budget will be executed to provide optimum value by ensuring every naira spent by this Government, counts.
40.We will devote a significant portion of our recurrent expenditure to institutions that provide critical government services. We will spend N369.6 billion in Education; N294.5 billion in Defence; N221.7 billion in Health and N145.3 billion in the Ministry of Interior. This will ensure our teachers, armed forces personnel, doctors, nurses, police men, fire fighters, prison service officers and many more critical service providers are paid competitively and on time.
41.Distinguished and honourable members of the National Assembly, our 2016 borrowings will be principally directed to fund our capital projects. Furthermore, the sum of N113 billion will be set aside for a Sinking Fund towards the retirement of maturing loans; while N1.36 trillion has been provided for foreign and domestic debt service. This calls for prudent management on our part, both of the debt portfolio and the deployment of our hard earned foreign exchange earnings.
42.I am aware of the problems many Nigerians currently have in accessing foreign exchange for their various purposes – from our traders and business operators who rely on imported inputs; to manufacturers needing to import sophisticated equipment and spare parts; to our airlines operators who need foreign exchange to meet their international regulatory obligations; to the financial services sector and capital markets who are key actors in the global arena.
43.These are clearly due to the current inadequacies in the supply of foreign exchange to Nigerians who need it. I am however assured by the Governor of Central Bank that the Bank is currently fine-tuning its foreign exchange management to introduce some flexibility and encourage additional inflow of foreign currency to help ease the pressure.
44. We are carefully assessing our exchange rate regime keeping in mind our willingness to attract foreign investors but at the same time, managing and controlling inflation to level that will not harm the average Nigerians. Nigeria is open for business. But the interest of all Nigerians must be protected. Indeed, tough decisions will have to be made. But this does not necessarily mean increasing the level of pain already being experienced by most Nigerians.
45.So to the investors, business owners and industrialists, we are aware of your pains. To the farmers, traders and entrepreneurs, we also hear you. The status quo cannot continue. The rent seeking will stop. The artificial current demand will end. Our monetary, fiscal and social development policies are aligned.
Conclusion
46.Mr. Senate President, Mr. Speaker, distinguished members of the National Assembly, in spite of the global economic uncertainties; we must remain steadfast in our commitment to steer this country back to greatness.
47.The Nigerian economy needs to move away from dependency on oil. Our growth must be inclusive. Nigerians must be part of the growth story. As a Government, we shall deliver security, jobs and infrastructure. This is the right of all Nigerians.
48.I know many people will say “I have heard this before”. Indeed, trust in Government, due to the abuse and negligence of the past, is at an all-time low. This means we must go back to basics. Our actions will speak for us. My team of dedicated, committed and patriotic Nigerians is well aware of the task ahead and I can assure you that we are taking on the challenge.
49. We will not betray the trust reposed in us.
50. We will welcome and be responsive to your feedback and criticisms.
51.We are here to serve. And indeed, Nigerians will get the service they have longed for and which they rightly deserve.
52.We as a Government cannot do it alone. We will require the support of all civil servants, the organized labour, industry groups, the press and of course, our religious and traditional institutions. This is a call for all of us to stand and serve our country.
53. This Budget represents a major step in delivering a new opportunity for Nigeria. It demonstrates our confident optimism that despite the challenging times, we have the will, resourcefulness and commitment to deliver prosperity to our people. And by the Grace of Almighty God and the sheer will and determination of the Nigerian people, we will come out stronger and more united than ever.
54. Thank you and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –TODAY (POST EXCO BRIEFING):
As part of the Urban Renewal strategy as encapsulated in the SMART Agenda of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, the Delta State Government has restored street lights in Asaba, the state capital and environs.
A visit to some of the roads in Asaba last night shows that Summit road, Nnebisi Road, Anwai Road, Okpanam Road as well as Cabinet Road all in the state capital were looking well illuminated at night.
The significance of the restoration of power to the street lights is that the Okowa Administration leveraged on the improved power situation in Asaba by reconnecting the street lights to public power supply thereby saving the state from the stress of fueling generators to power the street lights.
The street lights now connected to a new 7.5MVA transformer, will no doubt save the state millions of Naira spent on monthly basis to fuel the generators.
The restoration of the street lights no doubt will have great effects on the environment especially improving on the aesthetic of the city as well as improving security and making the roads more safer for motorists who make use of the roads at night.
This major step taken no doubt is a plus to the Okowa Administration in ensuring that things are done differently and Deltans given value for their money.
Governor Okowa have been able to achieve this feat, despite dwindling revenue due to his dogged approach to leadership which he has epitomized by providing leadership of sacrifice as can be seen from his modest lifestyle and tight fiscal discipline.
At a post executive council media briefing today, December 23, 2015 presided over by Delta Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, the Energy Commissioner, Newworld Safugha disclosed that the state government has initiated fresh plans to commit about N10 million monthly for tarrif and other charges to generate the lights as against the almost N74 million used by the last administration.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – – By Sunday Ikuesan/Henry Stephen Ifeanyi
Nigerian pastors in Gabon under the aegis of Nigerian Ministers’ Fellowship in Gabon (NIMIFEG) recently organised a powerful prayer summit for Nigeria.
The organization prayed for peace, love and unity amisdt the current security challenges and others in the country.
This year prayer’s sesion is the 15th of its kind since the formation of this religion’s group in Gabon, and without doubt the organization has contributed immersely to build the image of Nigeria in Gabon with their good presentations to the host country, Gabon. They are being described as good ambassadors of Nigeria for their conducts by the Nigerian Ambassador in Gabon, Ambassador Bassey Archibong who accords this Christian body in high esteem.
Nigerian Ministers’ Fellowship in Gabon (NIMIFEG) is a regroupment of renowned Nigerian clegymen known for their vision and charismatism, and the organization plays the role of CAN to over fourty Nigerian churches in Gabon that are within its fold.
Our reporters in Gabon who attended this year prayer’s summit confirm authentically that NIMIFEG has more than fourty churches as members. They include Deeper Life Bible Church, Assembly of God Church, The Apostolic Church, Methodist Church, The Master’s Vessel Ministry, Evangelical Church of the living God, Alliance Christians, Rock of Salvation, Eglise Pierre Vivante, God’s Ascension Church and host of others….
In his message, the president of Nigerian Ministers Fellowship in Gabon, Pastor Fidelis Olarewaju who is also the Gabon coordinator of Deeper Life Bible Church urges Nigerians to always appreciate God’s love for Nigeria.
The preacher made reference to 2015 general election in Nigeria, and how the power of God outdid the plan of the devil with its various pesimistic propagandas for Nigeria. It was a colourful celebration as this year prayer’s summit also commemorate Nigeria’s 55th independence anniversary.
The Embassy of Nigeria in Gabon who is being represented by the Consular officer shows its appreciation to the good work of Nigerian Ministers’ Fellowship in Gabon (NIMIFEG). Other invitees who graced the occasion are notable men of God of Gabon nationality.
*Sunday Ikuesan and Henry Stephen Ifeanyi are Blank NEWS Online correspondents in Gabon
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Senator Chief Ighoyota Amori
On Saturday March 28 and Saturday April 25, 2015, the people of Delta Central Senatorial District gave me their mandate to represent them in the Senate.
Despite the antics and desperation of the opposition parties in the twice conducted senatorial election, the people of Delta Central with determination gave their votes to me, the PDP candidate in the election because of their confidence in me to offer them the needed representation in the Senate for the advancement of the Urhobo nation.
My victory in the twice conducted senatorial election was affirmed by the Election Petition Tribunal which sat in Asaba the capital city of Delta State in two separate judgments against the opposition parties, the All Progressive Congress APC and the Labour Party LP in the tribunal.
The Appeal Court sitting in Benin-city, Edo State on Monday December 14, 2015 further affirmed my victory by dismissing in its entirety the appeal brought against me by the APC candidate in the senatorial election.
Regrettably however, same Appeal Court five days after reversed itself when it ruled in favour of the LP candidate in the election by upholding all the prayers in his petition.
Without equivocation, I wish to state that the judgment of Saturday 18th December, 2015 marked a twist in the political history of the Urhobo nation. Going by what transpired at the court that day in all sense of purpose amounted to judicial rascality, judicial somersault and judicial award in favour of an obvious loser who came a distant second. Truly the judgment is a miscarriage of justice.
The judgment which was delivered in about 2 minutes and delayed for more than two hours, with six other cases pending for determination by same Appeal court points to the Biblical inscription of the: Voice of Jacob but, the hands of Esau.
The judge, who perhaps delivered the fastest judgment in the judicial history of Nigeria, had declined to read the judgment on the excuse that the other two members of the Appeal panel queried him why he alone delivered the previous judgment which went in my favour against the APC candidate.
The same judge two hours later made a U-turn by delivering the judgment in the absence of the other two members of the panel in a scenario that appears as though he was acting on orders from ‘Power from above’.
The judgment no doubt is a major setback to our collective will to right some of the wrongs bedeviling the Urhobo nation and forge a common front in the determination to advance the socioeconomic development of the Urhobo nation. It has once again denied the Urhobo nation the needed representation and leadership in the Senate at this crucial stage of our nationhood.
I deeply appreciate the countless visits/phone calls and text messages from far and near in show of solidarity and condemnation against the Appeal Court ruling that has further put a taint in the nation’s judiciary.
As a law abiding citizen, I wish to sincerely appeal for calm particularly from Nigerians, Deltans and particularly my Urhobo brothers and sisters over the outcome of the Appeal court judgment. ALL HOPES ARE NOT LOST AT ALL. Continue to have faith in me and together we shall overcome this temporary setback. Wishing you all a merry Christmas and a prosperous new year.
Signed Senator Ighoyota Amori (JP). Monday December 21, 2015
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
So much has been said about the December 12 confrontation between the Nigerian Army and members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria led by Sheik Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, the leader of the Shia in Nigeria. I guess the point has been well-made that there are faults on both sides. There seems to be a consensus, however, that the followers of Ali, better known as Shiites or the Shia, seem to enjoy confrontations with the state and seem determined to disregard dominant authority- Islamic and secular.
By the same token, the Nigerian security establishment has since the 1980s showed an equal determination to put el Zakzaky in his place. But in no way does this justify the extra-judicial killing of members of the Islamic Movement, or the use of the word, “Prisoners of War” (POW) to describe its detained members. The Nigerian Government since the 80s has set up a series of panels of inquiry and produced tomes on the subject of forging peaceful relations between the state and religion, and yet religion remains a key threat to amalgamation and the sanctity of the Nigerian state.
What we are dealing with is something deeper- it is the outflow of a deep schism within the Islamic faith on the questions of authenticity and legitimacy, in terms of what constitutes rules, doctrines, interpretations and values. This old battle for doctrinal supremacy is what has been responsible for the divisions within the faith since the First Fitna. It is the drama being played out in the Middle East. It is the story and politics of ISIS and ISIL. This is why it will be wrong to describe the Islamic Movement in Nigeria’s constant conflict with the Nigerian state as a confrontation between Nigerian Muslims and the state, to the extent that ISIS or ISIL does not speak for all Muslims just as the ISMIN does not speak for all Nigerian Muslims.
There are many Muslims in the North and across Nigeria who do not agree with El Zakzaky’s preaching and his mode of organization. Sectarian differences between Shiites and the Sunnis, who lay claim to a more authentic version of Islam, are often transported onto the platform of the open society. A Nigerian Sunni in uniform who is wielding a gun, confronted by a Shiite insisting on lack of regard for the state, will willingly open fire on that promoter of a branch of the religion, which he considers unacceptable. The state gets blamed, but the battle is in the hearts of the men on both sides: an ideological as well as indoctrination battle. This connection between the hearts of men, their beliefs, and the circumstances of power relations in which they find themselves significantly defines the outcomes in cases such as this. It explains the loud silences from critical quarters, including government.
For example, in a famous 2014 letter from Sheik Ahmad Gumi, a Nigerian Sunni Islamic leader, the former accused El-Zakzaky of bringing “a lot of bad innovations among Nigerian Muslims that rather than unite the Muslims are further entrenching the divide without any added value to the worldly development nor the hereafter…” These innovations include the blocking of roads, disregard for state authority and the rights of other Nigerians, incitement, resort to abuse and the deployment of hate speech. Gumi complained about “the delinquency of your followers and the disturbance of public peace.” He identified the root of the crisis when he said: “How can you be the good servants of Allah when you call other human beings beside him?” He refers to this as “path to perdition.”
The response by El Zakzaky signed by one Ibrahim Usman simply accused Dr. Gumi of hatred and of ordering the shooting of Shias by the Nigerian government. This argument between a Sunni Sheik and a Shia Sheik, would still have been just as emotional and ideological if it had been between either of them and a leader of the Sufi brotherhood: the Tijaniya, the Quadiriyya or the Ahmaddiya. This battle is fought at many levels within the Nigerian space, oftentimes with state apparatus as cover. The saving grace is that no one has said that the man who ordered the shooting or those who pulled the trigger against the Shiites in Zaria on December 12, are Christians.
The bigger responsibility of the state may well lie in preventing the spread of the radicalism that turns the likes of Sheik El-Zakzaky into such powerful figures that they command millions of radical men and women who do not recognize the state or are prepared to use every possible means to affirm the supremacy of their doctrine. El-Zakzaky practically grew into an institution before the very eyes of the Nigerian state. While freedom of religion and worship is in order, there must be stronger structures for promoting inter and intra-religious understanding. The existing platforms for such dialogue on peaceful co-existence are weak and almost ineffectual, and the political elite, seeking power, often compromises itself by promoting those whose doctrines pose a threat to peace and unity.
El-Zakzaky’s ding-dong battle with the Nigerian state, for example, has been on since the 80s. He has spent a total of nine years in nine prisons across the country. The polyglottal First Class Graduate of Economics from Ahmadu Bello University has in 35 years built a movement that started with just a few hundreds of youths, looking for answers to matters of faith, into a nationwide network that boasts of two million members or more. That is more than the population of many countries. “If we want a million people out on the streets on any issue, we can do that”, he once told the BBC.
This pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel, pro-Iran, pro-Iraq fiercely ideological religious leader emerged as the commander of an army of youths and adults who have bought into a branch of Islamic preaching that considers itself superior even within the faith. Each time in the past that el-Zakzaky was taken to court for the excesses of his members, he always came out of it even far more defiant than he had been. After a two-year trial in 1998, he not only walked free, the state acted as if it had indeed been defeated. El-Zakzaky became more powerful thereafter as the population of his followers grew.
He is not the first of his type. Before him, there was Mohammed Marwa, popularly known as Maitatsine whose confrontations with the Nigerian state resulted in bloodbath, of a scale similar to that of present-day Boko Haram. Maitatsine also questioned the authority of the state and caused divisions among Nigerian Muslims with his controversial interpretations of the Quoran. He rejected the Hadith and the Sunnah, and expressed lack of belief in Prophet Mohammed (SAW). He was opposed to Western modernization and the use of cars, wristwatches and bicycles. His young followers attacked other religious leaders and engaged the police in many battles. Between 1980 and 2004, more than 10, 000 lives were lost to Maitatsine riots, which spread across the North. Marwa himself was killed in 1980, but the radical Islamic Movement which he led known as Yan Tantsine, outlived him and survived for more than 20 years later under the leadership of Musa Makaniki, who succeeded him.
Ustaz Muhammad Yusuf is another re-incarnation of the radical wing of Islam: an offshoot of the Maitatsine. He is remembered as the leader and founder of Boko Haram, the Islamic sect whose members claim they are committed to the Propagation of the Prophet’s Teachings and Jihad. (Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lida’awati wal Jihad). Boko Haram was founded in 2002 and it took on the task of confronting government and the progressive world. In 2009, the police killed Yusuf; their excuse was that he was trying to escape from custody but Nigeria has not known peace since then. What began as an objection to Western education and Darwinism has turned into a protracted full-scale war against Nigeria, an attempt to carve an Islamic state out of the country and the conversion of parts of Nigeria into extensions of the sphere of global terror. Today, Nigeria is regarded as a leading theatre of terror, with more than 10, 000 lives lost in the last six months alone.
Religious conflict, sectarianism and the growth of radical religious movements and their problematic cult leaders have always posed a threat to Nigeria’s sovereignty and the capacity of the Nigerian state to maintain peace and security. The principal victims are ordinary Nigerians who get cut in the crossfire and who suffer the consequences of living in a state of fear. What makes it more frightening is the internationalization of the crisis. In the present case, the Shia Government of Iran has declared open support for El-Zakzaky. The Iranian Military also reportedly posted a statement referring to the Nigerian Government as a “puppet regime.” There was a street protest in Tehran on Friday, Dec. 18.
As if to balance these responses, the Government of Saudi Arabia has intervened in support of the Nigerian Government. This Middle Eastern extension of the matter should alert the Federal Government to the need to take every step to ensure that the ideological battles being fought in that region do not open new flanks on our shores as a proxy platform. We cannot afford a sectarian war, in addition to Boko Haram. In the meantime, the Federal Government must object very strongly to the insolence of the Iranian military. We don’t have a puppet regime in Nigeria. We have a duly elected government.
Radical religious leaders often seek martyrdom. The death of Muhammed Marwa and Muhammed Yusuf turned them into martyrs, and worsened the Nigerian condition. Wherever El-Zakzaky is being held, the Federal Government must ensure that nothing happens to him. A man who boasts of millions of followers across the country could become the catalyst for something worse than Boko Haram. He and many of his followers, like the Boko Haram leader, Yusuf, are university graduates. It is a pity that our education system has become a breeding ground for cultists, fanatics and anti-state elements. Whatever is responsible for this: social or economic needs to be addressed.
It should also be noted that radical religious movements from the Izala to the Maitatsine, to El-Zakzaky’s Islamic Movement to Boko Haram draw their membership from the ranks of young Nigerians, male and female, who find heroes and answers in wrong places and circumstances and who become victims of the Lucifer effect- that condition whereby people who should be or are otherwise good become evil. Young Nigerians need to be rescued and turned into good citizens in an open and happy society. Education? Economic empowerment?, Re-orientation? Family values? Distancing religion from politics? Yes… It won’t happen overnight, but we must begin to realize that our response so far is behind the curve in dealing with challenges of impunity and ideological extremism.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
BRO. Chukwura P. K. C. has been elected as the Worthy President of Saint Patrick’s Commandery 550 of the Knights of Saint John International (KSJI), Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria.
Bro. Chukwura polled 21 votes to emerge victorious in the elections which was supervised by the Spiritual Adviser for Commandery 550, Rev. Fr. Mark Nwoko and conducted by the out-going Worthy President, Bro. Egbuiwe A. M, assisted by Brothers who does not have voting rights as they were initiated during the Benin Grand Board of Trustees Meeting held this month in Effurun, Delta State.
Other Brothers who were elected in the elections which took place on Thursday, December 17, 2015 during the Regular Monthly Meeting of the Commandery at S. P. C. Meeting Hall, Asaba include Bro. Nwawolo C. (1st Vice President), Bro. Onukwu P. P. (2nd Vice President), Bro. Egugbo F. I. (Recording and Corresponding Secretary), Bro. Andrew Jarikre (Financial Secretary) and Bro. Wakwe Vincent (Treasurer).
Bro. Onianwa M, Bro. Okafor F. And Bro. Ofili O.P. were elected as Trustees while Bro. Williams H. And Bro. Ijeh A. Were elected as Commander and Messenger respectively.
Also, Bro. Ujomu M. was elected as Sergeant-at-Arms and Bro. Anazia E. emerged as Judge Advocate while Brothers Iyawa G. G., Iyawa P. A. B. and Ojemaye A. were elected as delegates.
Rev. Fr. Nwoko thanked members of the Commandery for their spiritual comportment as the election lasted while Bro. Chukwura said it was a thing of joy that members of the KSJI did the elections with Brotherly love and appealed to all Brothers for their cooperation and assistance to lift the Commandery and KSJI to greater heights to the glory of God.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege
The Benin Division of the Court of Appeal, sitting in Benin City, Edo state has nullified the election and Tribunal victory of Chief Ighoyota Amori of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) representing Delta Central Senatorial District at the Senate.
Recall that the Election Petition Tribunal sitting in ASABA, Delta state had earlier ruled in favour of Amori as winner of the controversial election but Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege (Petitioner) of the Labour Party (LP) moved on to the Court of Appeal to further challenge the Tibunal ruling.
Chairman of the five-man panel of Appeal Court Judges, Justice Uwani Abba-Aji upturned the Tribunal’s earlier ruling and held that the LP Candidate at the poll, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege be sworn in duly elected.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has nullified the outcome of the April 11 governorship election in Akwa Ibom State.
The appellate court equally set aside the verdict of the Akwa Ibom State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal which had on October 21, ordered a re-run poll in 18 out of 31 Local Government Areas in the state.
The court in the lead judgment delivered by Justice Adefunke Okojie, held that the Akwa Ibom State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal erred when it voided election results from only 18 Local Government Areas in the state.
The five-man panel of Justices of the appellate court, in a unanimous judgement, said there was sufficient evidence that the election which produced Governor Udom Emmanuel of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was not conducted in substantial compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act.
The appellate court held that the Justice Sadiq Umar-led tribunal failed to properly evaluate both oral and documentary evidence that were adduced before it by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its governorship candidate in the state, Mr. Umana Okon Umana.
The five-man panel of Justices of the appellate court, in a unanimous judgement, said there was sufficient evidence that the election which produced Governor Udom Emmanuel of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was not conducted in substantial compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act.
The appellate court held that the Justice Sadiq Umar-led tribunal failed to properly evaluate both oral and documentary evidence that were adduced before it by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its governorship candidate in the state, Mr. Umana Okon Umana.
Consequently, in a unanimous judgment, a five-man panel of Justices of the appellate court, voided the Certificate of Return that was issued to Governor Emmanuel Udom by the Independent National Electoral Commission and ordered that a fresh governorship election should be conducted in the state within 90 days.
“The 1st respondent, Governor Emmanuel, was not duly elected by majority of lawfully cast votes. The tribunal was wrong by failing to invalidate the entire election. The appeal succeeds. The judgement of the tribunal sustaining election in 13 LGAs of the state is hereby set aside.
“The entire governorship election is hereby nullified. Consequently, the election and return of the 1st respondent as the duly elected governor of Akwa Ibom State is hereby nullified. The 4th defendant (INEC) is to conduct a fresh election in Akwa Ibom State within 90 days”, Justice Okojie held.
Meanwhile, Akwa Ibom State governor, Udom Emmanuel has vowed to challenge the nullification of his election by the Court of Appeal which ordered a fresh election in all the local government areas of the state.
According to the state Commissioner for Information, Mr. Aniekan Umana, “ we will definitely go to Supreme Court. We are not afraid of facing election because we know we can win over and over again, but we want to exhaust the legal option.”
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Reuben Abati Reuben Abati
There is never a scarcity of shocking events, revelations, encounters and experiences in the course of the interesting times we seem destined to live in. But nothing can perhaps be more shocking than a recent encounter I had with a young man. He had remarked quite innocently to my hearing that he wondered what all the noise was all about over the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola. “Who is he?”, he asked. I almost passed out.
“Who is Chief M.K.O. Abiola? How old are you? When were you born?”, I retorted, trying to figure out whether it is indeed possible for anyone in this country not to know who MKO Abiola is. I followed up with another question.
“You mean you don’t know who MKO is?”
“Why should I know him? Does he know me?”
By now, I was sweating. It turned out that the young man was born in 1995, two years after the 1993 Presidential election, and he was still a toddler by the time of the return to civilian rule in 1999. Now 20 years old, and a university graduate, he has grown up inside Nigeria, never knowing the late MKO Abiola, the martyr of the struggle for democracy: the main man whose sacrifice and heroism resulted in a long, civil society protest against military rule. Abiola was in addition, a major African philanthropist, a promoter of sports and one of the most remarkable figures in Nigerian history in the latter part of the 20th Century. I tried to explain Abiola’s significance to the young man.
“Good for him”, was his response. I could sense that he wasn’t excited.
I had to take on the additional task of further urging him to check out the name on Google: the knowledge made-easy platform on which the young ones rely for quick information. I dare not ask him to read some books about that period in Nigerian history, knowing what new technology has done to many of our youth, who find it difficult to read anything that is more than a few easy paragraphs. My encounter with this particular young Nigerian ended with the sad feeling that there are many like him out there, already out of university and busy thinking of next steps in their lives but who know next to nothing about the history of their country.
I have had similar encounters in more recent times: young Nigerians who do not know the author of Things Fall Apart, and who have never heard of Lord Lugard, Ahmadu Bello, Bola Ige or Kaduna Nzeogwu. The other day, I stumbled on an exercise on social media in which someone posted the picture of Samuel Ladoke Akintola, and asked that he should be identified. This generated some confusion as some referred to him as Adegoke Adelabu, and some of those who could identify him said Akintola was the one that uttered the famous phrase: “peculiar mess”, which got translated by his Yoruba listeners to “penkelemesi”. The only relief I took away was that nobody said the picture was that of Aminu Kano or Sa’ad Zungur. I imagine, at this rate, that a day may well come in the future when some young Nigerians may never have heard of Murtala Muhammed, or any of the present-day historical figures.
This is one of those self-inflicted omissions in our development process. Close to two decades ago, history was removed from the primary and secondary school curricula as a core subject. The teaching of history also became threatened at the tertiary level, as it got labeled as one of those disciplines that cannot get anyone a job in the oil and gas sector or the banks. In an attempt to remain relevant and avoid being shut down by the National Universities Commission, History Departments became creative by changing their content and nomenclature to History and Diplomatic Studies, or History and International Relations.
A succeeding generation of History graduates never failed to emphasize the suffixes. At the primary and secondary levels, history was replaced with social studies (which is at best a study of civics), or made optional, until it was even completely removed from the syllabus. Years of lamentation by history teachers has not made any difference, but the point needs to be made ad nauseam, that the school curriculum must be reviewed to place a better emphasis on the learning and teaching of history. It is in fact quite ironic that Religious Studies occupies a more privileged place in the Nigerian school curriculum: we are busy teaching our students and the future generation, the two major religions, and many of them grow up force-fed with only that kind of history that the religious books teach, along with the dogma. Today, we are harvesting the dangers.
History is the connecting link between the past, the present and the future. Serious nations take time out to teach students and the general populace the history of the people and their country, for it is only when a people know where they have been, where they are, and where they are going that they can better prepare themselves for challenges. The history of mankind is repetitive, another way of saying there is nothing new under the sun, by learning from other ages, we build the confidence to forge ahead.
Every country that cherishes memory and the art and culture of remembrance of all things past and present strengthens nationalism, a sense of citizenship and the current of knowledge in the public space. History is a truckload of mistakes made, from which we can draw lessons and accomplishments from which we can draw inspiration. It is also an instrument of power: colonialists in Africa did not teach the history of the colonized, they taught their own history, and insisted that Africans had no history, and no culture. It took a whole generation of African historians to insist on the existence and the authenticity of African history, and to tell our story to the world as a means of affirming identity, cultural heritage and independence. And yet today, this aspect of the struggle against mental slavery and domination has been abandoned.
The teaching of history needs not be formal: indeed in developed countries, more history is taught informally, bits of history are inserted into the landscape of social being in various forms. These include different types of museums: natural history, art, aviation, technology, war. Monuments are erected at chosen locations to remind the people of the past. Homes and birthplaces of famous achievers, including writers, statesmen and war heroes are marked and described. Public buildings welcome visitors with history. Cultural products, including movies, are also used to promote national history and energize the populace. By the time a child grows up in the midst of all this, he develops a sense of awareness that guides his relationship with country. It is also for the same reason that professions, including the military, teach their own history, to project tradition and achievement.
The historical narrative, thus represented in many shapes, has defined many societies. We visit such societies, enjoy their spectacles, absorb their narratives, and even buy their mementoes, but here back home, we have no museums, telling any significant story. We have no public places preserving the memories of our heroes past. Every child in Ghana knows who Kwame Nkrumah is, because his legacy is well-preserved in the public space. Where are the Nigerian equivalents: we don’t even keep official records anymore. Where is Nigeria’s National Presidential library? A nation without a conscious promotion of its history, culture, landmarks, icons, symbols, monuments, and heroes is a society deserving of extinction.
In the absence of a deliberate and structured effort to see history as a tool for national development, we have over the years left the telling of our story to revisionists playing games with national unity and promoting the enemies of amalgamation. Revisionists are propagandists, masters of dogma, and promoters of falsehood and lies. They deliver their narratives in convenient short-hand formats and through rumours. Many of the young men today who are clamouring for secession have never read the history of the civil war; they are victims of a false single story, which says other Nigerians do not like Igbos. The Yoruba landlord who does not want an Igbo tenant may not have heard that Igbos once represented Yorubas in parliament, or that Igbos have always been strong stakeholders in Lagos politics – all he knows is that silly story that Igbo tenants take their landlords to court, as if Yoruba tenants don’t do the same.
Those young men and women who allow themselves to be turned into foot-soldiers by Pastors and Imams, and who turn religion into a vehicle of violence have never been taught that those who did the same in the past in this same country got gunned down. Those religious groups who take over the highways and our streets, claiming they are holding a special revival or a procession, and who do not care about the rights of other road users and citizens have probably never read stories about the tension generated by such encounters between the state and religion. They all do not know that turning religion and ethnicity into enemies of the Nigerian state will ordinarily attract dire consequences because the state has a responsibility to allow freedom of expression but also an equal responsibility to prevent any form of abuse. By the same token, those trigger-happy security men who indulge in extra-judicial murder, have never read how such conduct indeed violates the dignity of the state, and sets a condition for the failure of government and state.
The historical sociology of the Nigerian condition points to much repetitiveness of social and political conduct with very little change in capacity to manage same, from the colonial period to the present. Those who ignore history and fail to learn from it are bound to repeat it. And so, we keep repeating the same errors because we forget too easily. The process of national re-orientation must include a promotion of our history for national development purposes. It is not enough to admit that some of the worst fanatics using religion and ethnicity to threaten national integration are university graduates: this indicates a great omission in the curriculum; in form of the failure to use the education system to produce Nigerians who are first and foremost citizens with loyalty to country.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
The Benin Division of the Court of Appeal, sitting in Benin City, Edo state has nullified the election and Tribunal victory of Osi Okocha, Accord Party member representing Aniocha North constituency at the Delta state House of Assembly.
Recall that the Election Petition Tribunal sitting in ASABA, Delta state had earlier ruled in favour of Osi Okocha as winner of the House of Assembly election in Aniocha North but Emeka Nwaobi (Petitioner) of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) moved on to the Court of Appeal to further challenge the Tibunal ruling.
The Appeal Court however restored the victory to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Engr, Emeka Nwaothi and nullified that of Osi Okocha of Accord Party, member representing Aniocha North constituency.
Chairman of the five-man panel of Appeal Court Judges, Justice Uwani Abba-Aji upturned the Tribunal’s earlier ruling and declared that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Engr, Emeka Nwaobi is winner of the April 11 House of Assembly poll.
The new twist, according to political pundits, may have left Hon. Victor Ochei, former Speaker of the Delta state House of Asembly and Chief Sponsor of Osi Okocha of the Accord Party in a limbo, as he may have lost his foothold on the party which he literally re-introduced to launch himself and Osi Okocha to the Federal House of Representatives and the State House of Assembly respectively.
Reacting to the Appeal Court judgement, Engr. Emeka Nwaobi said, “What happened on the 11th of April this year was a robbery on my election victory. I won the election convincingly in eight out of the nine wards in Aniocha North local government area of the state. The only ward I lost was that of my opponent where he defeated me with only one vote.
“Meanwhile, somebody (names withheld) who feel that he is bigger than the entire people of Aniocha North went ahead to multilate the results and announced the wrong person as winner of the April election.
“I am promising the people of Aniocha North that from today, they will begin to see the transformation and positive change they desire and by the grace of God, I will not disappoint them on my mandate”.
The PDP chairman in Aniocha North local government area, Chief Ifeanyi Osuoza who was beaten to a pulp by thugs allegedly acting on the orders of an Accord Party chieftain on the day of the election said:
“Today, I feel fulfilled because, as somebody who midwifed the election in Aniocha North, I knew that Emeka Nwaobi, abinitio, won the April election in this local government before INEC declared the wrong person as winner.
“Despite the fact that the tribunal ruled in favour of Osi Okocha, we, Members of the PDP and indeed Aniocha North indigenes believed strongly in the victory of the mandate of Emeka Nwaobi.
“We thank God that the appeal court saw the justification in our appeal and awarded it to us. Now that Emeka Nwaobi has been declared winner of the April elections in Aniocha North, Delta State now has four complements of House of Assembly.
“No doubt, the victory of Emeka at the appeal court is indeed a plus to the people of Aniocha North because, democracy and politics is about the people-the grassroots which Emeka stands for. So, we are full of expectations.”
Efforts to contact either Osi Okocha or Accord Party chieftains for ccommentsand reactions on the Appeal Court judgement were unsuccessful.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
By Albert OGRAKA Sector Commander, Delta State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr Rindom Kumven, addressing stakeholders and participants
The Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC), Delta State Sector Command has reiterated its commitment to the enforcement of road safety rules to curtail avoidable vehicular accidents throughout the yuletide.
Speaking at an enlightenment seminar and road show organized by the Command in conjunction with CLEEN Foundation in Asaba, the Sector Commander, Delta State Sector Command of FRSC, Mr Rindom Kumven, specifically urged motorists to urgently obtain their drivers’ licenses as a legal permit to drive on Nigeriàn roads.
He enjoined motorists seeking to obtain the new drivers’ licenses to be wary of fraudstars who disguise as agents and instead deal with only FRSC officials at the Command headquarter, adding that a 24 hour surveilance team have been constituted to apprehend touts who usually lurk around the FRSC offices across the state.
Kumven, noted that the unprecedented increase in fake drivers’ license currently in circulation created the need for the sensitization programmes on how to obtain genuine drivers licenses and road safety tips.
The seminar and road show tagged, “Sensitization on procedure for driver’s license, application and renewal in Nigeria” was attended by key stakeholders drawn from some transportation units in Delta and Anambra states respectively.Group photo
During the Sensitization programme which held on Thursday, December 17, 2015, officers of the Command explained various safety tips to the audience before embaking on the road show in Asaba, the Delta state capital.
While speaking on “How to acquire the new driver license”, ACC Emmanuel Bandele Atogun, who said the new upgrade drivers’ license is a one stop shop, disclosed that there are over 8, 000 unclaimed drivers’ licenses at the Command’s headquarters in Asaba.
Speaking during the interactive session, the National President of Lorry Drivers Association, HRH Igwe Amadi Chigbo Nzeogwu, appealed to the FRSC to exercise restraint in enforcing the use of seat belts on its members, since most of the lories in use wère produced without seat belts, although he disclosed that his asociation have started attaching a mock seat belts to comply with road safety rules.
Mr. Henry Ofurume of the CLEEN Foundation further advised that strict compliance to road safety rules would go a long at keeping the Nigerian roads free of accidents and reduce avoidable loss of human lives.
The Safety tips include: Drive your car and that of others at the same time, maintain reasonable speed limits, If you must drive, don’t drink. If you must drink, don’t drive, obey rules on use of Seat belts, regular vehicular checks, road signs and traffic signals as well as avoid overloading, among others. *Mr Idris Fika being decorated with his new rank of Deputy Corps Commander by the Delta State Sector Commander, Mr Rindom Kumven, at Asaba on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, the Sector Commander, Delta State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr Rindom Kumven, had on Wednesday, December 16, 2015 decorated newly promoted officers of the command at the FFSC office in Asaba, charging all officers serving under the state’s sector command to shun all acts of corruption and indiscipline.
The eight officers in the Delta State Sector Command elevated in the exercise include Mr Idris F. Fika, who moved up from an assistant corps commander (ACC) to a Deputy Corps Commander (DCC) and Mrs Obiageli Ndulue (PhD) from Chief Route Commander to Assistant Corps Commander (ACC).
Others are ACC N. Manjar, ACC Emmanuel Bandele Atogun, RC Nnamdi Okwaraona, RC Adedayo Sakako, RC Ifunaya O. Onyekaba, RC Blessing A. Ahiammadu and RC Agwammadu.
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On your first visit to his office, friendly aides direct you to an upper room reception where you fill a visitors form, indicating your purpose of visit. After assurances that “Honourable would soon attend to all of you”, the aides usher you into the elaborate office of Rt. Hon. Friday Osanebi, the member representing Ndokwa East Constituency at the Delta State House of Assembly.
Rt. Hon. Friday Ossai Osanebi, at first meeting is a positive, calm, well-defined gentleman, and detribalised personality.
Devoid of sentiments, he attends to myriad of complaints from people of various constituencies, as he usually deploys his personal resources to improve their conditions. He often times call on his colleagues on matters about their constituencies and fashioning out possible ways to help the constituents who throng to his office regularly.
Although Osanebi is presently the youngest legislator in Delta State House of Assembly, the maturity and dexterity he brilliantly exhibits at plenary sessions confirms his greater Legislative zeal to making laws for the good governance of a polity.
His view of the legislative mandate is that a lawmaker should, in the light of the severe economic hardships in the country, not only make laws and check the excesses of the executive arm but also seek ways to cushion the sufferings of his people, particularly the large army of unemployed youths.
He insists that as a legislator, the desire to serve the people must override any other sentiment in order to “build the Delta State of our dreams.” “Everyone must work as a team with the collective desire and objective of bringing about development and sustainable growth through the instrumentality of legislation.”
What makes his humane activities so commendable is the exemplary manner he uses his empowerment programmes to assist the youths, elders, women, widows and even infants through scholarship awards, skill acquisition, cars, motor-cycles, provision of generating sets and sundry tool kits for artisans, and cash grants to petty traders and donation of valuable items to orphanages.
Osanebi’s rare feat as an eloquent, erudite and philanthropic lawmaker recently led to the implicit vote of confidence passed on him by Youth Presidents from the Thirty six (36) clans in Ndokwa nation as well as the community Youth Chairmen which make up the clans as a result of his interest in youth development through empowerment.
While Rt. Hon. Friday Osanebi’s determination to promote the overall development interest of Ndokwa and his willingness to support the youths for sustained unity, peace and security in the communities is growing, he has also initiated laudable modalities for effective wealth creation and distribution at the grassroots level.
Rt. Hon. Friday Ossai Osanebi was born on the 7th of October, 1980 to the families of Chief and Mrs. Ossai Osanebi of Umuedem Quarters in Beneku Town, Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State.
He attended Eke Model Primary School, Kwale in Ndokwa-West Local Government Area of Delta State. And afterwards, proceeded to Orogun Grammar School where he obtained his Secondary School Certificate in flying colours. He later gained admission into the prestigious Enugu State University of Science And Technology ESUT where he undertook a Degree course in Material and Metallurgical Engineering and graduated.
Before now, he was the Beneku Youth President and later through dint of hard work, was subsequently elected President of Ndokwa National Youth Movement (Worldwide). He also served as Vice President of South-South Youth Leaders Forum before venturing into politics and won the election into the House of Assembly to represent Ndokwa East State Constituency and a successful business man.
Rt. Hon. Friday Ossai Osanebi is the Deputy Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly and member representing Ndokwa East in the house.
He was House committee Chairman, DESOPADEC, in his first tenure in 2011 and later chairman, inter-parliamentary matters before he became the Deputy Chief Whip of the House.
He is a philanthropist and has empowered over 1200 widows across Ndokwa Nation.
Rt. Hon. Friday Ossai Osanebi is a man with large heart and father to many Orphanage Homes throughout the Country and has placed somany elders, youths and women on monthly sustenance stipends. He has given out as gift over 600 motor-cycles to jobless youths and a well over120 Cars under his empowerment program. His scholarship programs knows no bounds as it cuts across both the indigent students of Ndokwa East Local Government Area in particular, Ndokwa Nation and Deltans at large. He is also a Patron to people with special needs.
His re-election to represent Ndokwa East Constituency at the Delta State House of Assembly for a second term in office is as a result of his benevolence and forthrightness in dealing with his Legislative duties, oversight functions, including delivering on Constituency projects where the mantra of “Empowerment Master” is yielding positive response from the Legislature and the constituents.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) –
Governor of Delta state, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has ordered the immediate sack of the General Manager of Delta Transport Company Limited, Elder Eyione Isaiah.
The Governor also approved the suspension from office of the Company Secretary Barr. Henry Ogichigba and Mr. Frank Preh, the Auditor of the Company.
It could be recalled that the embattled General Manager , Mr. Isaiah Eyione and the Chief Accountant, Mr. Josiah Isheke had been fingered in an alleged misappropriation of some bilions of naira grant accruing to the company during the past administrations.
The company had been indebted to banks and had failed to pay its staff salaries for over five months owing to failure of the management to maximize the company’s internally generated revenue and state government’s monthly grants to the company.
The company, according to sources, is also indebted to Zenith Bank and Wetland Micro Finance Bank which funded the purchase of buses leased to them despite its huge allocations and revenue.
Delta Line company, sources said, generates about N2.5 million daily and an average of N80million in a month.
Governor Okowa since resumption of office had instituted a panel to look into the affairs of Delta Line, assuring that the right decisions would be taken to the benefits of Deltans.
The sack and suspension order is contained in a letter signed by the state Commissioner for Information, Me. Patrick Ukah and made available to Blank NEWS Online on Monday 14th December, 2015. The leter titled GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT reads:
“It is hereby announced for the information of the general public particularly Deltans that His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor of Delta State, has approved the removal from office of Elder Eyione Isaiah, General Manager, Delta Transport Company Limited.
“Also, His Excellency the Governor has approved the suspension from office of the Company Secretary Barr. Henry Ogichigba and Mr. Frank Preh, the Auditor of the Company.
“The General Manager is advised to handover all document relating to the running of the Company and all the company’s property to the Director of Administration.
“The State Commissioner for Transport has been directed to oversee the running of the company till further notice.
“The Delta State Government has also ordered an audit inquiry into the activities of the company.”
Blank NEWS Online can disclose that earlier today, Monday, December 14, Governor Okowa waded into the crisis rocking the Delta State owned transport company, Delta Line saying it was disheartening for the company to owe workers more than six months salaries.
Addressing workers of Delta Line who visited him under the aegis of Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Service, Recreational and Technical Service Employees (AUPCTRE) in Asaba, Governor Okowa emphasized that, his administration was committed to managing the resources of the state transparently and to the benefits of the people.
“I will not deliberately ask that workers should be owed salaries, I will not deliberately say workers should not be paid, but, to say that the company is indebted to the banks to the tune of about N400 million is sad,” the Governor said, adding, “it is unfortunate that workers of Delta Line have not been paid their salaries for six months.”
While observing that the transport company have been fully commercialized, the Governor noted that the money the company generates was supposed to be ploughed back into the business and that it was unfortunate that despite the state government’s interventions in providing vehicles, the management of the company could not keep it afloat.
“If the management of the company is not running it well, appropriate actions must be taken,” Governor Okowa emphasized while lauding the Union for applying dialogue rather than resorting to unconventional means towards making the management of the company pay them their salaries.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – 
The Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has urged youths to avoid the twin vices of drug abuse and cultism if they are to become meaningful and respectable members of the society.
The Governor gave the injunction on Thursday at a symposium, on ‘Dangers of Cultism and Drug Abuse’ put together by the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Orientation and Social Development at the Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku.
Governor Okowa who declared the conference open through a representative, the Senior Special Adviser, Special Duties, Government House, Hon. Sam Obi, observed that the prevalence of cultism and drug abuse in institutions of higher learning was one of the moral failures which should be combated by well- meaning members of the society due to their disruptive effects to the careers of youths.
“As youths, you should dedicate your talents, energies and time to meaningful activities and ventures that will positively impact on the socio-economic and political transformation of the society and this can be best achieved if you are prepared physically, spiritually and mentally”, he said, adding that “These attributes according to the Governor, cannot be acquired through cultism or drug abuse.”
Senator Okowa noted that his administration has built enough mechanism to keep youths off crime through numerous empowerment and skill acquisition programmes as encapsulated in the SMART agenda.
He enjoined youths to stay out of crime while calling on individuals and corporate bodies to complement government’s effort at providing opportunities that would enable youths actualize their dreams.
The Guest speaker at the occasion, Professor Patrick Muoboghare enjoined the students to be bold enough to resist entrities by dangerous groups to recruit them.
Professor Muoboghare informed the students that drug abuse and cultism are twin evil that can not lead to a fulfilled academic pursuit.
Also speaking at the symposium, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okowa, Mr. Charles Ehiedu Aniawgu, attributed the causes of drug abuse and cultism to – lack of self esteem, low self-esteem, inordinate ambition, ignorance and or bad company.
He counseled the students that the best approach to freeing themselves from these vices was to, first of all, recognize the essence of being in the school., noting that if a student is conscious of the fact that his or her mission in going to school is to attain progress and enjoy higher/quality self esteem, it would be easier to withstand the pressure of bad influences.
The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Okowa on Orientation and Social Development, Barr. Eugene Uzum, had earlier informed the gathering that his office in collaboration with the management and staff of Ogwashi-Uku Polytechnic and ‘Force Movement’ a non-profit organization, initiated the workshop to sensitize youths, particularly undergraduates, on the dangers of cultism and drug abuse.
Uzum recounted the fate of so many families whose future has been ruined by the indulgence in cultism or drug by their wards and observed that the seminar was the partnership’s contribution to stemming the growing ugly trend.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – By Reuben Abati Reuben Abati
“Did they send you your own share of the bush meat?”
“Bush meat?”
“The lion in the zoo that became bush meat in Jos”
“What’s my own inside? I don’t know any zoo worker in Jos and how could a lion that was allowed out of its cage and got shot end up in my stomach. The kind of things you say sometimes.”
“That means you have not been following the story.”
“It is an animal tale”
“Created, concocted and delivered by animals in human skin, working in animal kingdom, telling us animal tales. What surprises me is the fact that there has been no public uproar, no outrage.”
“People are too busy thinking of how to survive as human beings, how to fight the current nationwide epidemic of empty pockets and stomachs, and survive the change in their lives.”
“But when a similar incident occurred at the Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, there was serious outrage all over the world. Dr. Palmer, the American who killed the lion was the target of abuse and attacks. He even had to shut down his dental office. There were calls for his prosecution.”
“I know. In our case, the international community is indifferent. It is as if nothing has happened. A lion was killed in Zimbabwe; there was protest. A few days ago in Kenya, two Maasai herdsmen were charged for poisoning a lion. A lion is killed in Nigeria, not a whimper. “
“The truth is that the rest of the world is convinced that Nigeria itself is a zoo. Boko Haram is slaughtering thousands of human beings, girls are being abducted in hundreds, women are being raped, voters are getting killed in Kogi and Bayelsa. With such evils against humanity, why should anyone worry about a Nigerian lion being shot and ending up in the zoo of stomachs?”
“The zoo of stomachs”
“Look, I can swear that if you open some people’s stomachs in this country, what you will find is a zoo: lions, grasshoppers, horses, cats, rats, snakes, dogs, rabbits, antelopes, crocodiles, birds, elephants, extinct animals, disappearing species, anything that can serve the gut, and ginger the taste buds. That is why we can never successfully run a zoo, or a Games Reserve.”
“See, the situation in Zimbabwe with Cecil, the lion is no different. In Zimbabwe, the zoo guides deliberately released the lion and Dr. Palmer laid siege and gunned down the lion, and beheaded it. In Jos, their explanation is that the lion slipped out of its cage when it was being fed breakfast.”
“Lying liars. Fibbing fibbers.”
“They made it sound as if the lion was living in a room and parlour and he just moved from the room to the parlour, to the verandah and to the streets. It is a zoo, for Heaven’s sake and there are standards and best practices!.”
“How will they know what the best practice is, when they don’t even know the age of the lion? The manager of the zoo says the lion has been there since 1972. A 43-year old lion, and yet there is no established protocol for managing it.”
“There is no 43-year old lion anywhere in the world. That is a lie. They don’t have records. They don’t keep records.”
“The lion doesn’t even have a name. In Zimbabwe, and Kenya, they name their lions.”
“That is not a problem. We can give the lion a name, right now. What is the name of the state Governor?”
“Simon Lalong. What about him?”
“Good. Simon, the lion. How about that?”
“Ha. The man is still alive oh. And of what use is a name to a lion that is dead, skinned, cut into bits and pieces, taken home to the cooking pots, eaten, digested, and washed down with whatever the animals eating animal meat deemed fit.”
“The very reason the Governor should order a serious investigation. Who released the lion? And why? Who killed it, skinned it? And who took part in the Feast of the Lion? For all you know, the zoo-keeper deliberately released the lion. He may have been commissioned to do so, by herbalists, who I hear value the body parts of a lion. In that kind of world, the teeth of a lion, the paws, the skin, the ears, all of this can be used by ritualists to give a human being, lion-like powers.”
“Blood of Jesus!”
“Did you not see how the killers posed with the lion for photograph, drooling from the mouth, salivating, looking hungry?
“They made it seem as if the lion was a jailbird who escaped, and resisting arrest, they shot it, instead of tranquilizing it. And they turned the zoo into an abattoir!”
“All the characters involved should be investigated and sacked. Otherwise, tomorrow, they will release a rabbit and gun it down, next tomorrow, an antelope will also break jail, and it will be shot, to be followed by a snake, all getting shot and ending up in people’s pots as bush meat.”
“That is why we can’t run a proper zoo, games reserve or a tourism programme. We talk about climate change and the environment but we don’t know that animals are important to the ecosystem. Sad.”
“Have you not heard of the lion that the Saraki Senate has also let loose?”
“A zoo in the Senate? I don’t get it.”
“They have just released one lion called Social Media Bill.”
“You mean the Frivolous Petitions Prohibition Bill”
“The law seeks to gag the social media. It says you can’t even complain on your what’s app, email, twitter, BB or blog and if you say something that is frivolous, you can go to jail or pay a fine.”
“That is an assault on the fundamental right to free speech; a dangerous lion that should be tranquilized!”
“They don’t have tranquilizer in Jos zoo or any other zoo in Nigeria, is it in the Senate that they will have it? Look, some activists have decided to organize their own public hearings and shoot down this particular lion.”
“Let’s go there then. Let the shooting shooters, the gunning gunners, the writing writers, the protesting protesters, the marching marchers, the shouting shouters, the fighting fighters, the petitioning petitioners, the blogging bloggers and the tweeting children of anger have their own public hearing. That’s democracy.”
“You left out the Wailing Wailers”
“They too. I think this is the type of lion that Nigerians should kill, not Simon.”
“I like your passion. But there was a protest in Abuja on Tuesday. I didn’t see you joining them?”
“Hen. Hen. You want them to mistake me for a lion that escaped and shoot me, abi? You don’t know that to be an activist, you must also be wise, and protect your stomach from bullets.”
“I thought you were bullet-proof. And you need not be afraid, anyway. The Senate has made it clear that it is acting in the public interest and that its members are not opposed to free speech. Just a simple matter.”
“Please! My fear is that they are all shooting already and because they are yet to hit target, there are stray bullets flying all around, respecting nobody. You go and ask Dino.”
“Which of the Dinos? Dino 1, Dino 2, Dino 3 or Dino $1,000?”
“I don’t know. But the people in Aso Rock have been smart enough to duck. They are now talking about free speech. Free speech. Free speech! Thank God oh, for free speech!”
“Not in Bayelsa at this time, though. Or in Kogi, where people are suspicious of tomorrow.”
“Why not in Bayelsa? I saw the people insisting that they should be allowed to choose their Governor. Too much violence in that election.”
“I hear Countriman has declared that he’s not going to die and that the election will be concluded.”
“Who is so-called?”
“Dickson”
“Ha, Dickson na Ijebu Ode boy oh. Him no ready to die. Bobo no go die, afi to ba di Governor. Bobo!”
“But INEC says the Bayelsa election is inconclusive.”
“This new INEC should just be renamed Inconclusive National Electoral Commission (INEC). If they take weeks to conduct elections in eight local governments, with less than one million voters, if they have to run a nationwide election, then the entire country will be declared inconclusive. Where is Jega by the way? They need him as a Consultant.”
“Why? Let him enjoy his retirement, I beg.”
“Why not?”
“It is called change, my brother.”
“But not in Kogi where I hear the Deputy-Governor elect is swearing that if he is not allowed to inherit the Audu-Faleke undeclared victory, he will not show up to be sworn in as a Deputy Governor on January 27, 2016.”
“He doesn’t want to be Deputy Governor again?”
“He says he cannot betray former Governor Abubakar Audu.”
“Ha. Inconclusive matter! I think we should declare 2015 our year of inconclusiveness. 2015: Nigeria’s Inconclusive Year. How about that?
“Nigeria’s Year of Inconclusivity.”
“Two weeks to Christmas, see how people are looking sad. Some people this year will just pretend that there is no Christmas, Christmas having been declared inconclusive! Even prostitutes have reduced their charging rates; everybody is looking for survival, and anything is fair game, be it a live lion, or the people’s rights or what is that famous blogger’s favourite word again? Yes, eggplant. As Douglas Adams said: to summarize the summary of a summary, people are a problem.”
“Tell me more about these prostitutes and their current rate cards.”
“No be me and you. You go and find out. You see, you are part of the problem.”
“That includes you too, I beg. You always talk about change; now you have it, and you don’t want to talk about it. My friend, don’t complain. Go and sit down.”
“Change?”
“Change is the necessity of history”
“You know the truth?”
“What?”
“Things do not change, we do.” Henry David Thoreau.”
“I don’t know him. You know what? Stop quoting dead people.”
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – By Albert OGRAKA Governor Ifeanyi Okowa @ the NUJ Press Week
DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has urged journalists to shun reports capable of propagating hate in the society.
Governor Okowa spoke as the special guest of honour at the 2015 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council with the theme: Reporting Okowa’s S.M.A.R.T Agenda: What Benefits To Deltans?
The event which held on Wednesday, December 09, 2015 at the Nigeria Labour Congress in Asaba, Delta State capital was well attended by virtualy all practicing and veteran journalists, labour leaders, leaders of thought, politicians, captains of various industries, among others in the state. Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (middle); his Deputy, Barr Kingsley Otuaro (left) and the National President, Nigerian Union of Journalist, Comrade Waheed Odusile during the State NUJ Press week in Asaba. Pix: Bripin Enarusai
In his speech, Governor Okowa said that journalists have a burden to report on realities on the ground, not prejudices or rumours which are capable of propagating hate, especially in a multi-ethnic society. He emphasised that journalists should always cross-check their facts before going to press.
“As far as I am concerned, if a reporter publishes the truth, it is for the good of the society, as long as the principles of fairness, equity, observance of professional ethics and balance are followed.
“What is unacceptable is to embark on creative writing and invention of sensational stories to discredit government or persons; you cannot build on falsehood and expect it to stand, because, sooner or later, it will surely crumble”, he said. Governor Ifeanyi Okowa admiring and launching a copy of compendium by the State NUJ
While calling on journalists to do their jobs in a way that will distinguish the profession and bring honour and glory to it, and to aid sustainable development in the society, Governor Okowa said his administration will always be media-friendly because, “it is important for government to allow the journalists to carry out their watchdog role in the society if any positive impact is to be made in socio-economic and political development of the society.”
“Good governance cannot be achieved when the press does not have unfettered access to the process of governance, but, the access also demands that journalists should be responsible in their professional conduct, taking into cognizance, their social responsibility as they play their watchdog role in the society,” the Governor noted.
Okowa who was accompanied by his Deputy, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro and other top government functionaries, assured the NUJ in Delta State of his administration’s zeal to support in building and furnishing the ongoing Press Centre project. State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah (right) and Comrade Tunde Thompson (Guest Lecturer) during the State NUJ Press week
The National President of NUJ, Comrade Waheed Odusile, the Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire and Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah among others who spoke at the occasion emphasised that freedom of speech as enshrined in the constitution of the country should be upheld while the state chairman of the union, Comrade Norbert Chiazor said the “NUJ will remain responsible and responsive in projecting issues that would improve the lives of Deltans as well as Nigerians under civil rule.”State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Norbert Chiazor (left) and the State Labour Chairman, Comrade David Ofoeyeno.
He appealed to Governor Okowa to assist the union in the construction of the NUJ Secretariat in the state as “Delta is the only state in the South south geo political zone without a Press Centre, even with the pioneering contributions to the media history in Nigeria.”
Highpoint of the occasion was the delivery of a lecture by Comrade Tunde Thompson and the presentation of a compendium of registered practicing journalists in the state as well as presentation of awards to deserving Deltans.
The annual Press Week was preceded by Awareness Rally and a Novely Football match at the Squash Court, ASABA.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (left) in warm handshake with the Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Monday Igbuya, during the Presentation of 2016 Budget, in Asaba.
DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has presented a budget proposal of two hundred and sixty five billion, six hundred and sixty eight million, one hundred and fifty six thousand, one hundred and seventy four naira (N265, 668, 156, 174) for the 2016 fiscal year to the Delta State House of Assembly.
This amount comprises one hundred and fifty three billion, one hundred and fifty six million, eight hundred and fifty two thousand, nine hundred and fifty six naira (N153.156, 852,956) or 57.65 per cent for Recurrent Expenditure, and one hundred twelve billion, five hundred and eleven million, three hundred and three thousand, two hundred and eighteen naira (N112, 511,303,218) or 42.35 per cent for capital expenditure.
According to Governor Okowa the year 2016 budget proposal shows a marginal increase of twelve billion, seven hundred and twenty four million naira (N12.724bn) or 5.03 per cent when compared to the year 2015 amended budget of two hundred and fifty two billion, nine hundred and forty three million naira (N252.943).
A sectoral breakdown of the budget shows that the sum of 2.296 billion naira would be spent on the State Job and Wealth Creation Scheme, Transport Sub-sector 15.421 billion naira, Health sector 5.9 billion naira, and Education 10.1 billion naira, while Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission was allocated 28 billion naira.
Christened, ‘Budget of Renewed Hope and Inclusive Development,’ the Governor stated that being the first budget that is conceived his administration; the grim forecasts from these documents place a moral burden on the administration to adopt a pragmatic approach in the 2016 budget estimates based on prudent management of public finances without necessarily playing to the gallery or raising false hope.
“The budget is admittedly tight but it is consistent with our vision for maintaining strict fiscal discipline”, he said. He noted that the health of the state’s public finances was crucial to good governance which would inspire hope and confidence, attracting investors, ensure the sustainable development of the state’s economy as a whole and maintain the basic principles of prudent management of public finances in strict adherence to due process and keep expenditure within revenue limits.
“As part of our resolve to avoid the mistakes of the past and ensure that we get full value for every kobo spent the project monitoring and supervision function is being handled by a Directorate under the leadership of the Senior Policy Adviser.” he said.
To this end, the Governor warned that no contractor will get away with any shoddy or uncompleted jobs. According to the Governor, it was for this reason that the Economic Intelligence Unit of the Ministry of Economic Planning has been strengthened to enable it discharge its responsibility as the due diligence outfit for Government.
Similarly Governor Okowa observed that the State Executive Council has resolved that from now on, any government official who, either by omission or commission, allows the State to be short-changed in its investment projects will be severely sanctioned. He noted that the goal of his administration was for Delta State to become the most prosperous State in the country.
Governor Okowa was accompanied to the Delta State House of Assembly by his Deputy, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, his commissioners and top government functionaries to the budget presentation session yesterday (08/12/15); which was presided by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Monday Igbuya.
Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Friday Osanebi thanked Governor Okowa for his respect for the legislature and for working in the interest of Deltans and moved a motion for the budget proposal to be accepted as a working document while the member representing Oshimili South Constituency, Rt. Hon. Peter Onwusanya seconded the motion for the adoption of the motion which was overwhelmingly done.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Written by Ajalakpo Oweh;
Legislators in any political setting or locale are meant to represent the electorate and the welfare and interests of their constituents should be paramount. But that is not so with the members of Delta State House of Assembly.
Instead of them to make laws for the good governance and progress of the state and check the excesses of the executive arm of government, they are busy junketing round the globe under the veneer of some education tour and seminar. In October 2015, the twenty-nine member House under the leadership of the speaker, Honourable Monday Igbuya are in the United States of America undergoing some tutorials on parliamentary procedures. Getting education is not a bad idea but in a climate of near financial insolvency of the state that found expression in the debt burden of N637.22 billion and a recent debt of N10 billion incurred by the Okowa administration, the tour is either a waste, misplacement of priorities by the government or at best, a variant of prosperity agenda for the legislators. It is also possible that our universities are equipped to teach these adult learners.
It staggers the imagination and simply confounds economic realities that the legislators should feel happy embarking on such a tour when pensioners are not paid their entitlements three years running. It is also incredible that a government that sacked thousands of workers employed between December 2013 and May 29, 2015 can sponsor such a frivolous trip. The tour will cost the state government about one billion naira. Such huge amount of money can go a long way in fixing schools or health facilities. But our legislators are not perturbed about that. One legislator with conscience simply painted the education tour as a jamboree. This is how he puts it:
“If the figures should be revealed, Deltans will stone us and protest, especially in this era of almost zero allocation. If I must tell you the truth, my brother, this is the second time I am attending such training as a lawmaker and the training is actually nothing but a kangaroo training or jamboree. If you say you won`t attend, you will be tagged as the black sheep in the House”.
Deltans are very incensed about this waste of scarce resources and the legislators and the state governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa should know that history and posterity shall record them in that light.
Ajalakpo Oweh, a seasoned Journalists writes from the southern sub-region of Nigeria (Courtesy: National Review Magazine) http://www.nationalreview.ng
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Freedom is more powerful than fear Obama: Freedom is more powerful than fear
THE PRESIDENT: Good evening. On Wednesday, 14 Americans were killed as they came together to celebrate the holidays. They were taken from family and friends who loved them deeply. They were white and black; Latino and Asian; immigrants and American-born; moms and dads; daughters and sons. Each of them served their fellow citizens and all of them were part of our American family.
Tonight, I want to talk with you about this tragedy, the broader threat of terrorism, and how we can keep our country safe.
The FBI is still gathering the facts about what happened in San Bernardino, but here is what we know. The victims were brutally murdered and injured by one of their coworkers and his wife. So far, we have no evidence that the killers were directed by a terrorist organization overseas, or that they were part of a broader conspiracy here at home. But it is clear that the two of them had gone down the dark path of radicalization, embracing a perverted interpretation of Islam that calls for war against America and the West. They had stockpiled assault weapons, ammunition, and pipe bombs. So this was an act of terrorism, designed to kill innocent people.
Our nation has been at war with terrorists since al Qaeda killed nearly 3,000 Americans on 9/11. In the process, we’ve hardened our defenses — from airports to financial centers, to other critical infrastructure. Intelligence and law enforcement agencies have disrupted countless plots here and overseas, and worked around the clock to keep us safe. Our military and counterterrorism professionals have relentlessly pursued terrorist networks overseas — disrupting safe havens in several different countries, killing Osama bin Laden, and decimating al Qaeda’s leadership.
Over the last few years, however, the terrorist threat has evolved into a new phase. As we’ve become better at preventing complex, multifaceted attacks like 9/11, terrorists turned to less complicated acts of violence like the mass shootings that are all too common in our society. It is this type of attack that we saw at Fort Hood in 2009; in Chattanooga earlier this year; and now in San Bernardino. And as groups like ISIL grew stronger amidst the chaos of war in Iraq and then Syria, and as the Internet erases the distance between countries, we see growing efforts by terrorists to poison the minds of people like the Boston Marathon bombers and the San Bernardino killers.
For seven years, I’ve confronted this evolving threat each morning in my intelligence briefing. And since the day I took this office, I’ve authorized U.S. forces to take out terrorists abroad precisely because I know how real the danger is. As Commander-in-Chief, I have no greater responsibility than the security of the American people. As a father to two young daughters who are the most precious part of my life, I know that we see ourselves with friends and coworkers at a holiday party like the one in San Bernardino. I know we see our kids in the faces of the young people killed in Paris. And I know that after so much war, many Americans are asking whether we are confronted by a cancer that has no immediate cure.
Well, here’s what I want you to know: The threat from terrorism is real, but we will overcome it. We will destroy ISIL and any other organization that tries to harm us. Our success won’t depend on tough talk, or abandoning our values, or giving into fear. That’s what groups like ISIL are hoping for. Instead, we will prevail by being strong and smart, resilient and relentless, and by drawing upon every aspect of American power.
Here’s how. First, our military will continue to hunt down terrorist plotters in any country where it is necessary. In Iraq and Syria, airstrikes are taking out ISIL leaders, heavy weapons, oil tankers, infrastructure. And since the attacks in Paris, our closest allies — including France, Germany, and the United Kingdom — have ramped up their contributions to our military campaign, which will help us accelerate our effort to destroy ISIL.
Second, we will continue to provide training and equipment to tens of thousands of Iraqi and Syrian forces fighting ISIL on the ground so that we take away their safe havens. In both countries, we’re deploying Special Operations Forces who can accelerate that offensive. We’ve stepped up this effort since the attacks in Paris, and we’ll continue to invest more in approaches that are working on the ground.
Third, we’re working with friends and allies to stop ISIL’s operations — to disrupt plots, cut off their financing, and prevent them from recruiting more fighters. Since the attacks in Paris, we’ve surged intelligence-sharing with our European allies. We’re working with Turkey to seal its border with Syria. And we are cooperating with Muslim-majority countries — and with our Muslim communities here at home — to counter the vicious ideology that ISIL promotes online.
Fourth, with American leadership, the international community has begun to establish a process — and timeline — to pursue ceasefires and a political resolution to the Syrian war. Doing so will allow the Syrian people and every country, including our allies, but also countries like Russia, to focus on the common goal of destroying ISIL — a group that threatens us all.
This is our strategy to destroy ISIL. It is designed and supported by our military commanders and counterterrorism experts, together with 65 countries that have joined an American-led coalition. And we constantly examine our strategy to determine when additional steps are needed to get the job done. That’s why I’ve ordered the Departments of State and Homeland Security to review the visa (waiver) program under which the female terrorist in San Bernardino originally came to this country. And that’s why I will urge high-tech and law enforcement leaders to make it harder for terrorists to use technology to escape from justice.
Now, here at home, we have to work together to address the challenge. There are several steps that Congress should take right away.
To begin with, Congress should act to make sure no one on a no-fly list is able to buy a gun. What could possibly be the argument for allowing a terrorist suspect to buy a semi-automatic weapon? This is a matter of national security.
We also need to make it harder for people to buy powerful assault weapons like the ones that were used in San Bernardino. I know there are some who reject any gun safety measures. But the fact is that our intelligence and law enforcement agencies — no matter how effective they are — cannot identify every would-be mass shooter, whether that individual is motivated by ISIL or some other hateful ideology. What we can do — and must do — is make it harder for them to kill.
Next, we should put in place stronger screening for those who come to America without a visa so that we can take a hard look at whether they’ve traveled to warzones. And we’re working with members of both parties in Congress to do exactly that.
Finally, if Congress believes, as I do, that we are at war with ISIL, it should go ahead and vote to authorize the continued use of military force against these terrorists. For over a year, I have ordered our military to take thousands of airstrikes against ISIL targets. I think it’s time for Congress to vote to demonstrate that the American people are united, and committed, to this fight.
My fellow Americans, these are the steps that we can take together to defeat the terrorist threat. Let me now say a word about what we should not do.
We should not be drawn once more into a long and costly ground war in Iraq or Syria. That’s what groups like ISIL want. They know they can’t defeat us on the battlefield. ISIL fighters were part of the insurgency that we faced in Iraq. But they also know that if we occupy foreign lands, they can maintain insurgencies for years, killing thousands of our troops, draining our resources, and using our presence to draw new recruits.
The strategy that we are using now — airstrikes, Special Forces, and working with local forces who are fighting to regain control of their own country — that is how we’ll achieve a more sustainable victory. And it won’t require us sending a new generation of Americans overseas to fight and die for another decade on foreign soil.
Here’s what else we cannot do. We cannot turn against one another by letting this fight be defined as a war between America and Islam. That, too, is what groups like ISIL want. ISIL does not speak for Islam. They are thugs and killers, part of a cult of death, and they account for a tiny fraction of more than a billion Muslims around the world — including millions of patriotic Muslim Americans who reject their hateful ideology. Moreover, the vast majority of terrorist victims around the world are Muslim. If we’re to succeed in defeating terrorism we must enlist Muslim communities as some of our strongest allies, rather than push them away through suspicion and hate.
That does not mean denying the fact that an extremist ideology has spread within some Muslim communities. This is a real problem that Muslims must confront, without excuse. Muslim leaders here and around the globe have to continue working with us to decisively and unequivocally reject the hateful ideology that groups like ISIL and al Qaeda promote; to speak out against not just acts of violence, but also those interpretations of Islam that are incompatible with the values of religious tolerance, mutual respect, and human dignity.
But just as it is the responsibility of Muslims around the world to root out misguided ideas that lead to radicalization, it is the responsibility of all Americans — of every faith — to reject discrimination. It is our responsibility to reject religious tests on who we admit into this country. It’s our responsibility to reject proposals that Muslim Americans should somehow be treated differently. Because when we travel down that road, we lose. That kind of divisiveness, that betrayal of our values plays into the hands of groups like ISIL. Muslim Americans are our friends and our neighbors, our co-workers, our sports heroes — and, yes, they are our men and women in uniform who are willing to die in defense of our country. We have to remember that.
My fellow Americans, I am confident we will succeed in this mission because we are on the right side of history. We were founded upon a belief in human dignity — that no matter who you are, or where you come from, or what you look like, or what religion you practice, you are equal in the eyes of God and equal in the eyes of the law.
Even in this political season, even as we properly debate what steps I and future Presidents must take to keep our country safe, let’s make sure we never forget what makes us exceptional. Let’s not forget that freedom is more powerful than fear; that we have always met challenges — whether war or depression, natural disasters or terrorist attacks — by coming together around our common ideals as one nation, as one people. So long as we stay true to that tradition, I have no doubt America will prevail.
Thank you. God bless you, and may God bless the United States of America.
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Nigeria (Blank NEWS Online) – Delta Assembly Speaker, Rt. -Hon. Monday Igbuya
Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Monday Igbuya, has lauded the eforts of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for creating diverse and purposeful economic opportunities for Deltans.
He appealed to all, irrespective of sex, religion, ethnic origin, political affiliation or social status to join hands in the work ahead to make Delta peaceful and prosperous.
“Let us work with the governor to improve the lots of the people of the state” he pleaded.
He however gave the governor a pat on the back for putting in place cost saving measures and injecting honesty, efficiency and competence into the art of governance.
He attributed the level of development in the last six months to cordial relationship between the three arms of government, the governor’s ability and strength in initiating people-oriented policies, which he said had improved the lives of the people.
To make a quantum leap in development, Igbuya said Governor Okowa would continue to run a people-oriented government
“Okowa’s vision is virtually limitless. He will continue to run a transparent government. He will continue to protect the interest of the people. He will continue to build the infrastructural base of the state. He will continue to create the right environment for businesses to flourish without bureaucratic impediments,” he said.
He noted that the expectations of Deltans at home and abroad from the government were high but explained that the governor is committed to doing the right things.
“Okowa is a good listener and knows his task of governing the state. He will stick to the policy of transparency and accountability,” he promised.
Igbuya further disclosed that the executive, legislature, and judiciary in the state would continue to strengthen the tenets of good governance, considering the robust cordial relationship among the three arms of government.
“My primary agenda in the Delta State House of Assembly is to ensure that laws are made by the House for the peace, security and good governance of the state; laws that would be result oriented and have positive impact on the lives of Deltans.”
“The existence, functions and duties of the three organs of government are constitutional. There are checks and balances and separation of power. The judiciary interprets the law, the legislature makes law and the executive implements the law. There will always be synergy between the three arms of government.
“The lawmakers are not subservient to the executive arm but there is need for synergy to propel and maintain the state on the path of prosperity. Our people didn’t vote for us to suffocate the system or to fight the governor or to carry placard that governor cannot do this or that. Their quest is for us to make laws that can bring proper development of the state.”
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