Delta State Governor, Senator DR Ifeanyi Okowa has asserted that unwarranted criticism will not distract his administration from its focus on providing prosperity for all Deltans.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Charles Aniagwu made the disclosure yesterday (30/07/15) while briefing a cross section of Journalists on activities of Governor Okowa’s administration in Asaba.
He said “To Senator Okowa, prosperity for all Deltans is not just a political cliché but an agenda that is realisable through commitment to the SMART Agenda,” stressing that “Governor Okowa’s administration means well for the state, he is desirous of leaving Delta State far better than he met it, in the course of our electioneering campaign throughout the state, we were emphatic on our promise to improve on the standard of living of our people.”Mr Aniagwu decried negative publicity against Governor Okowa’s administration on the pages of newspapers and the social media noting, “while the Delta State government under Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa strives to actualise its set objectives, it has come to the notice of the state government that some individuals are out, not only to discredit the efforts being put in place, but determined to throw spanner in the wheel of progress in the state development policy initiatives.”
“Even when government welcomes constructive criticisms from right thinking members of the society, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration will not be cowed neither will it give in to cheap blackmail from few persons, hiding under the cover of being protectors of public interest to falsify information and mislead the unsuspecting members of the public,” the Chief Press Secretary said.
Mr. Aniagwu said that Governor Okowa’s administration has taken proactive measures to curb the effects of flooding on Deltans. He stressed that the action has become necessary on account of the predictions of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) that some states in the country including Delta would face flood challenges this year.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
It was Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the former Central Bank Governor (now Emir of Kano) who in January 2014 enriched our political lexicon with the coinage of the term Vested Interests. At a youth summit geared towards national rebirth and renewal, Mallam Sanusi declared that Nigeria can only become great when as a people we “overcome the fear of vested interests.”
And by that he meant that those entrusted with leadership and governance must muster the political will to do the right thing no matter whose ox gored. In a thought provoking message that went viral soon after the meeting, Sanusi averred that “we must recognize that at the heart of the problem of Nigeria, at the heart of ninety per cent of our issues – from Boko Haram, to religious crisis, to ethnic crisis to unemployment, to the lack of education, to the lack of health care – is that there are people who profit from the poverty and underdevelopment of this country.
‘’And these people are called Vested Interests. And so long as they remain entrenched, and so long as we do not overcome our fear of them and dislodge them, we are not going to find a solution to this problem and we are not going to reach true potentials.” Emir Sanusi’s narrative comes strongly to mind as I observe the heated and, sometimes confusing debate, over the proposed amendment to the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) Act by the Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa.
Proposed amendment
The reactions to the proposed amendment have ranged from the ludicrous to the outrageous; ludicrous as in accusations that the proposed amendment is a ploy by the Governor to “control the DESOPADEC funds” and outrageous as in the Urhobo Youth Alliance for Equity and Justice threatening to “make Delta State ungovernable for Okowa,” if he went ahead with the proposed amendment.
As I observe the bluster, ethnic jingoism, and political demagoguery on display I have no doubt in my mind that Vested Interests are at work, and God help Governor Okowa. It was Arunma Oteh, the former Director-General of Securities and Exchange Commission who observed that if you dare fight corruption in Nigeria, corruption will fight back.
First let us take a look at the proposed amendment. Addressing the state chapter of Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas, HOSTCOM, led by Dr. Peter Egedegbe, Governor Okowa explained: “We are not repealing the old law; it is not a new bill.
The amendment we are proposing is to structure DESOPADEC in line with the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, model…I proposed that there should be a Managing Director and Executive Directors to run the day-to- day affairs of the Commission while there will be commissioners who will be on part time basis, representing different ethnic nationalities.
The Governor further assured members of HOSTCOM that the current practice of rotational leadership of DESOPADEC has not been tampered with in the proposed amendment, adding, “This is democracy and I am not expecting that the Amendment Bill will come out exactly as we proposed it. There will be public hearings where people will make their contributions. The final bill will be the one that comes out of the House of Assembly. I don’t believe in forcing the hands of legislators.”
I have never been able to understand our predilection for speaking without thinking, or reacting based on sentiments instead of facts. Until that clarification by the Governor, you would have thought that the Governor had sponsored a totally new bill to the House of Assembly judging by the spate of attacks, sponsored newspaper/online articles, and sundry groups condemning the bill and calling for his head.
Service delivery
What I expected after this explanation by the Governor was for opponents of the proposed amendment to dissect the new arrangement as envisaged by the governor and its relevance and suitability to our own situation. For instance, I expected them to ask questions like: Is the NDDC model the best we can have? How effective has it been in service delivery and in fulfilling its mandate to be a catalyst for infrastructural development and environmental renewal in the Niger Delta region? How many Executive Directors will be appointed under the new arrangement and how will they be appointed? How do we ensure that the Commission does not get bogged down by corporate politics and personality clashes?
These and many other pertinent questions should occupy the minds of those who truly mean well for the ethnic nationalities for whom the Commission was established. Instead I keep hearing mundane talk of some group being robbed of their chance to produce the next Chairman of the Commission or some other puerile argument. It is Vested Interests at work. And instead of taking advantage of the public hearing on the amendment these Vested Interests have been beating the drumbeats of war in their selfish and dubious attempts to becloud the issue. The real issue here is one of development of the oil producing communities in Delta State, which have continued to languish in abject poverty and deplorable environmental conditions despite the billions that DESOPADEC has received on their behalf.
According to information posted on its website, “the Board of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) was set up in July, 2007, to execute a clear and critical mandate; to rehabilitate, rejuvenate and resuscitate the peoples and communities of the oil producing areas of Delta State. This mandate is stated unequivocally in Section 13 (i) of the enabling law which set up DESOPADEC and states that the Commission shall “receive and administer exclusively the fifty per cent (50%) of the thirteen per cent (13%) Oil Derivation Fund accruing to the Delta State Government for: (a) The rehabilitation and development of Oil Producing Areas in the State, and (b) Other development projects as may be determined from time to time by the Commission.”
Environmental degradation
There is no doubt that the government had noble intentions in setting up DESOPADEC. After years of painful neglect and environmental degradation it was imperative for the government to have such a special intervention agency to redress the injustice that the oil producing communities had been subjected to. But after eight years, I doubt if we can thump our chests and say that DESOPADEC has performed creditably when compared with the huge allocation it has received. We are talking about an agency that receives 50% of the derivation money that accrues to the entire Delta State.
The Commission’s budgets for 2013 and 2014 were N37b and N39 respectively. If we estimate the budget for the Commission at a conservative figure of N30b annually, that puts the total money that accrued to it in the last eight years at N240b. That is more than the budget of states like Edo, Gombe, Anambra, and Jigawa. Yet can we really say that the welfare of the people in the oil producing communities has experienced significant improvement? Can we honestly say that the Commission has done a good job of rehabilitating, rejuvenating and resuscitating the peoples and communities of the oil producing areas of Delta State? I reside in the oil-rich city of Warri where DESOPADEC has its headquarters and there is no gainsaying the fact that the oil producing communities are still bedevilled with infrastructural decay, urban blight, environmental degeneration, acute healthcare challenges, failing educational institutions, and crushing poverty. This is exactly why the Vested Interests cannot tout the achievements of DESOPADEC as reasons why the law setting it up should not be amended?
They have instead been championing their own agenda – typically. For them it is always a question of who should get what and why contractors must be paid now as if our lives and that of the future generation depended on it. It would be a shame if Governor Okowa caves in to the Vested Interests and does not pursue the proposed amendment to its logical conclusion. My understanding from the proposed amendment is that it seeks to reposition the Commission for greater efficiency, best practices and responsive leadership.
Responsive leadership
The idea of having a managing director and executive directors may have its own challenges but I think the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages. It will serve the Commission well to have a hands-on management as is being proposed in the amendment. And collective leadership with checks and balances is to be preferred any day over dictatorship in whatever guise. Before now, DESOPADEC was run by an Executive Chairman who, more or less, operated like a sole administrator.
The members of the Commission, known as Commissioners, hardly attended meetings when they were called, and which was rare. They were, it seemed, only interested in the distribution of the largesse from the big honey pot. As long as the Chairman kept them happy with their own share of the ‘oil cake’ he was free to run the Commission any how he wanted.
For whatever it is worth, it is my considered view that we should give the proposed amendment a chance to succeed. Any reservations we may have about it should be properly and- forcefully – canvassed at the public hearing. It is time we Deltans discard this penchant for feuding over every matter instead of engaging in constructive dialogue. Many of us glibly talk about change but we fail to realise that true, genuine change begins with each and every one of us.
*Fred Omanufeme, a project consultant, resides in Warri.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Delta State Deputy Governor, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, has warned that the state government under the leadership of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa will not tolerate any form of unwanted disturbance by any community across the state.Deputy Chief of Staff Government House, Hon. Steve Eruotor. (Left) Chairman, Ughelli South Local Government Council, Hon. Paul Etaga (middle) and Mr. Julius Clark. during a meeting with Setraco (Nig) Ltd and Bomadi/Gbaregolor Community in Asaba.
Barr. Otuaro who stated this on Thursday July 30, 2015 in a meeting while wading into the crisis between management of SETRACO Nig Ltd and Gbaregolor community over operational positions, in his office Asaba, noted that government will not hesitate to invoke the full weight of the law on communities involved in the breach of peace, law and order in their town.
The state deputy governor who was represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff Government House, Hon. Steve Eruotor, noted that one components in the SMART agenda of this administration is to build peace across the state irrespective of ethnic divides. He noted that the meeting was to find lasting peace in the employment and retrenchment of some indigenes of Gbaregolor community into SETRACO company.
According to him, the present administration under the leadership of Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa believes in equity, fare play and justice. He added that nobody will be short changed and no one will be intimidated, asserting that it is a government of transparency were people’s rights and opinions will be respected. He noted that the decision of the community in pressurising the company to sack some indigenes and replace them with others was unhealthy and affirmed that the action lack merit.
The state deputy governor noted that the state government expressed displeasure over crisis that continue to erupt between communities and companies operating in their area, saying this has led to the relocation of companies from the state overtime.
According to him; “Seven, eight, ten years ago Delta State was booming with various companies, because of this same attitude of company and community clashes, a lot of companies has relocated to other states of the federation. This administration would want to encourage foreign companies, investors, multi-nationals to relocate back to Delta so that the state will begin to boom once more”. Barr Otuaro stated.
Barr. Otuaro advised the Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Area, the President General of Gbaregolor Community and the management of SETRACO Nig Ltd to as a matter of urgency to set up a meeting between them and draw up a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, between SETRACO company and the Gbaregolor community, while those standing in employment of the company should retain their position, because they are staff of SETRACO.
He instructed that the MoU between the community and the company when duly reached should be brought back to government for proper recognition. Noting that the MoU should also pacify the number of years indigence recommended by the community should work with the company before others can come in on rotational basis according to the wish of the people.
He asserted that the state government is poised to ensuring that a conducive atmosphere is created for companies to operate in Delta State, and appealed to the various communities to maintain peace and create a conducive atmosphere for these companies to operate.
The President General of Gbaregolor community, Mr. Benson Omorovwo said the call for the retrenchment of the four staff of SETRACO who are indigenes of the community to replace them with others was based on the collective wish of the people and stakeholders, noting that it is was intended towards spreading the empowerment to others.
Mr. Omorovwo said the affected workers were employed few years ago base on the recommendation of the community, arguing that the affected workers were use to replace others that were working with the company initially.
The Public Relation Officer, SETRACO Nig. Ltd in charge of Niger Delta, Chief Godspower Opuromo, asserted that the company has invested money into the training of the four staff from Gbaregolor community and has employed them as skilled workers into company arguing that the community cannot pressurised SETRACO to sack staff who did not err or act at variance with the rules and regulations of the company.
The Chairman of Ughelli South Local Government Area, Hon. Paul Etaga commended the state government for its timely intervention into the crisis, emphasising that the issue would have led to loss of lives and other valuables.
Hon. Etaga disclosed that a similar ugly incident occurred some years back that claimed several lives and pledged to ensure that the MoU will be reached by both parties in order to ensure peace order and development to reign in the local government.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
The administration of Governor Ifeanyi Athur Okowa is set to embark on massive road construction so as to speed up the delivery of prosperity for all Deltans.
“Without good roads, it will be impossible for prosperity to be delivered,” the Commissioners of Works, Water Resources Development, Basic Education and the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, Chief James Augoye; Sir Fidelis Tilije; Hon. Chiedu Ebie and Mr Ehiedu Aniagwu respectively said in a joint press briefing on the outcome of the state executive council meeting held in Asaba.
During the press briefing which took place at the Government House, Asaba, the Commissioners also stated that the executive council approved the construction of a modern market at Orerokpe.
Chief Augoye specifically said, “the Governor of Delta State, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa during his campaign made promises and he is in a haste to see that the campaign promises are actualized within the shortest possible time within the limited resources available to the state in line with the SMART (Strategic wealth creation initiative and provision of jobs for all, Meaningful peace building platforms aimed at political/social stability, Agricultural reforms and industrialization, Relevant health and education policies and Transformed environment through massive urban renewal) agenda.”
“We are aware that there is no way the SMART agenda can be actualized without having effective and sustainable road networks across the state, especially in the area of wealth and job creation,” he asserted, reiterating that the Governor Okowa’s administration has commenced moves in ensuring that the roads are worked on.
He disclosed that during the executive council meeting, approval was given for the dualisation of “Nnebisi Road from the Traffic Light to Cable Point which terminates at the Bank of the River Niger,” adding, “this road is going to be in two phases, the first phase is from Nnebisi Road to the Cable Market which is about 1.71 kilometre and from the market to the River Niger is going to be a single carriage road.”
The Commissioner emphasized that the dualisation of the road had become urgent, “due to the heavy commercial activities taking place and in order to make the area more accessible, there is real need to dualise the road.”.
The Commissioner said that the state government was poised to immediately address erosion menace across major towns and cities in the state.
On the construction of a modern market at Orerokpe, Chief Augoye said, “the state executive council also approved the construction of a modern market at Orerokpe and the market will have one hundred and ninety six (196) open shops, twenty eight (28) lock up shops, four offices, sixteen toilets, one cold room and one storage room.”
He further said, “the construction of the market will be carried out by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry while the dualisation of the Traffic Light to Cable Market will be done by the Ministry of Works.”
Sir Tilije informed Journalists that EXCO also approved the rehabilitation and upgrading of a twenty-bed cottage hospital at Azuowa, Abavo, saying, “this project was first awarded in 2004 and since then, it has been overgrown by bushes and EXCO also, approved the bringing back of 130 youths who are undergoing training in different fields of human endeavour at Trinidad and Tobago and Babados on successful completion of their training so that they can share their experiences.”
“You will recall that in the past six weeks, Governor Okowa’s administration have been requesting for application from the youths and farmers to come and take part in the wealth creation exercise, the first tranche will empower 6, 000 Deltans within six months have been approved by the EXCO,” Sir Tiliije said.
At the briefing, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hon. Ebie stated, “EXCO approved three memo’s for the upgrade and procurement of educational equipment for the Technical Colleges in Agbor, Ofagbe and Sapele, they are spread across the 3 senatorial districts on the state, we all know the benefits of technical and vocational education because it helps to train our youths and also assure them of a better future.”
“Sadly these technical colleges which are six located across the state have been in state of decay to the extent that the buildings were non-existent and everything had deteriorated, so, in line with the SMART agenda and to ensure that our people are properly equipped, the Governor had identified these colleges but , due to paucity of funds, only three Colleges can be attended to at this time and they will be done in phases,” he said, adding, “there will be an upgrade of the existing facilities which entails the clasroom blocks. the workshops, residential accommodation for principals and hostels, there will be procurement of equipments, machines and everything that will be needed to teach the students.”
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
The authority of Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku has affirmed its commitment to the production of quality students and in-depth scholarship to fire the engine of growth and progress of Delta State in particular and Nigeria in general.
The Polytechnic further clarified zero tolerance on examination malpractices on the part of students and lecturers who find passion in extorting students for marks.
In a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the institution, Mr Manfred Oyibogbeye, the authority warned distractors of the school and their collaborators not to tarnish the good image of the Rector and other senior management staff toiling day and night for the progess of the school.
The statement made available to Blank NEWS Online partly read thus:`
“The Polytechnic management which has since established a reputation for good and progressive leadership cannot be part of or encourage any group or process that wants to impede the progress of students and staff. The Rector is a woman of high integrity, respect, admiration, well learned and a seasoned administrator with a penchant for academic standard. Her efforts cannot be rubbished by any reporter or news medium unfit to carry out investigation and or chose to be faceless.”
The Polytechnic maintained that there was no iota of truth in the online medium report that accused lecturers of extortion, collection of illegal fees and money to supervise students projects.
The statement wondered why the reporter failed to get the reaction of the school authority before rushing to publish, which showed that the reporter was hired to do bad job to tarnish the reputation of the school.
The school authority said that at no time did the management receive any complaint or written report on the said allegations and that for the past three years, the school management team has stood on the side of educational probity and scholarship without compromise.
The statement therefore stated “that the publication is a cheap lie and no doubt the reporters had been bought by some detractors to embarrass the institution. The Polytechnic management which has since established a reputation for good and progressive leadership cannot be part of any group or process that want to impede the progress of students.
The polytechnic therefore advised reporters and other media workers who have issues to clarify with the school to always contact the Public Relations department as the school runs an open door policy.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has warned against rumour mongering as the nation experiences another phase of democratic government.
Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (left) and His Royal Majesty, Asagba (Prof.) Chike Edozien, the Asagba of Asaba. during the Interdenomination Service to mark the 90th Birthday of the Asagba
Speaking at an inter-denominational thanksgiving service to mark the 90th birthday of the Asagba of Asaba, Obi (Prof.) Chike Edozien in Asaba Tuesday , July 28, 2015, Governor Okowa said rumour mongering among the people is retrogressive.
According to him, “this is not the time to carry rumours, this is not the time for lies on the pages of newspapers about government that is less than two months old, it is a time to work with government, our palms are open, we are ready to partner with anybody who has positive things to offer, yes, we welcome criticism, constructive criticisms but I believe that it must be based on what you think is right and not just because you want to destroy the administration, you gain nothing from trying to destroy Delta State.”
He emphasised, “let us work together as brothers and sisters to develop our state for that is the call I make to all, we have opened our palms, ready to partner with all and I thank our traditional rulers for all that they are doing to support this administration.”
“We have committed ourselves to serve the people and we know that God is able to change the trend in Nigeria and things will become better and even the oil prices that appear to be down will come up, but, beyond that, I believe that what we are experiencing today is supposed to be a lesson to all leaders that we cannot continue to rely just on oil,” he said.
The Governor added, “we need to begin to think differently and to work to ensure that we diversify our economy, we shall offer our best, we shall partner with the people, it is our promise, continue to pray for us, continue to pray for Delta State.”
He thanked Obi Edozien for the roles he played for him to emerge as Governor of Delta State and congratulated the royal father on his 90th birthday.
“You (HRM Edozien) are a man of experience, a man with a lot of wisdom, we need to tap into that wisdom,” Governor Okowa said while listing some of the achievements of the Asagba and wishing him more successful years on the throne.
The Arch-Bishop of Enugu Province and Bishop of Enugu Diocese of Anglican Communion, Most Revd. Emmanuel Chukwuma had at a sermon, challenged political office holders to beware of sycophants and work to always live legacies that would be appreciated by those they led.
High point of the occasion was the reading of a congratulatory message from President Mohammadu Buhari by his representative at the ceremony, Alhaji Abba Kyari. Some prominent Nigerians including wife of former President Olusegun Obasanjo attended the birthday thanksgiving service.
Dignitaries at the service later proceeded to the event centre venue of the reception where the Royal majesty’s 9th birthday Cake was cut.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has frowned at myriad of claims alleging the dissolution of the Delta State Oil Producing Communities Development Commission (DESOPADEC), saying the claims were false.
Addressing a press conference, weekend in Asaba, Governor Okowa who spoke through the Chief Press Secretary, Mr Charles Aniagwu disclosed that it was the Board of the Commission that was dissolved.
“We want to make it clear that the Commission is intact and never dissolved, what was dissolved is the Board whose tenure has elapsed long before now,” he said, asserting, “Section 7 of the DESOPADEC Act, provides for a three years tenure for members of the Commission, the Board in question was inaugurated August 2011 and reconstituted in November 2012, the life of the Board was thus extended by 3 months (to take of the September-November, 2012 when they were out of office) and it lapsed by November 2014 following the expiration of their three years tenure as spelt out in Section 7.
“That meant that they have overstayed their three years tenure,” Governor Okowa added.
He reiterated, “we are also aware of report suggesting that contractors are being owed money because the Board has been dissolved, nothing can be further from the truth as one of the early actions of our Governor on assumption of office was to direct the release of two billion naira to the Commission to enable it meet its regular and contractual obligations and it is pertinent to also point out here that the Commission between January and May, 2015 received 3.5 billion naira.”
Governor Okowa also shed light on the amendment of the bill setting up DESOPADEC stating, “let us make it very clear that the alleged inclusion of gas in the definition of Oil producing communities is not new as Section 2 of the existing Act aptly defined Oil producing areas as oil and gas producing communities in the state while Section 7 of the principal law, sub section 1 paragraph C, clearly talked about oil producing ethnic nationalities.
“The reason for the proposed amendment is to reposition the Commission to effectively address the plight of oil bearing communities and not just a theatre for mere ethnic arguments, as such, the introduction of a Managing Director and Executive Director is aimed at efficiently maximizing allocation to the Commission to bring about optimal benefits to the downtrodden people of the oil bearing communities,” he emphasised.
On allegations that the Delta State government received the sum of N70 billion as bailout funds from the Federal Government, Governor Okowa said, “let us make it clear that no 70 billion naira under any guise whether allocation, bailout or gratis was released to the state,” stating that the huge debt burden of the state was been restructured through the Debt Management Office for the loans to become Federal Government bonds thereby giving the state a long repayment period without increasing the debt burden of the state.
He stated that restructuring the debt was a proactive step to enable his administration “deliver on its promise of prosperity to all Deltans.”
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Mr. Abdulwaheed Odusile has been elected as the new National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at the union’s election held on Saturday night during its 5th triennial delegates’ conference in Abuja. He succeeds Garba Mohammed.
This is just as former Delta state Chairman and zonal Secretary of the Union, Comrade. Edward Akpati Ogude clinched the position of Vice President, South-South Zone F.
Odusile, who is from the Lagos State council and the Managing Editor of The Nation Newspapers, scored 354 votes to defeat his closest rival, Mr Rotimi Obamuwugan, who scored 333 votes, and four others, namely, Michael Aladenika, Dele Atunbi (51 votes), U.S.A.Uzaka (46 votes) and Mustafa Lamidi (12 votes) who ran for the post of President with him.
In his victory speech, he said his first priority is to ensure employers in the media industry do not owe journalists salaries.
Mr Mohammad Shu clinched the position of the financial secretary of the union after he secured 454 votes to defeat his contender Mr. Ajayi Olugbenga while the post of the National Treasurer went to Mrs Monica Okechukwu who got 310 votes to defeat two other contestants, namely, Mr Garba Iliya and Mr Ambrose Nwachukwu.
Meanwhile, the positions of Deputy National President, National Internal Auditor and the Vice-President, North-central were filled unopposed. Comrade Edward Akpati Ogude (Vice President South-South Zone F)
Former Delta state Chairman and zonal Secretary of the Union, Comrade. Edward Akpati Ogude was also returned unopposed as Vice President, South-South Zone F.
Mr Chris Isiguzo was declared winner of the South East Vice-President after he defeated Mr Goddy Okafor while Aisha Ibrahim clinched the position of Vice-President North-east.
Other officials elected were Opaka Dokubo, Zonal Secretary South-South, Mr Kenneth Ofoma Zonal Secretary, South-east while Suleiman Ibrahim emerged Secretary, North-east.
Similarly, Mr Hakeem Olatidoye emerged Secretary, North Central and Mr Lawal Afolabi won the post of the Secretary, South-eest Zone.
Delegates to the conference were drawn from NUJ Councils from the 36 states of the Federation and the FCT.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Chairman of the Labour Party, Chief Tony Ezeagwu has expressed optimism that the Election Petition Tribunal may cancel the Governorship election held on April 11 in Delta state. Chief Tony Ezeagwu, Labour Party Chairman, Delta state
He ascribed his optimism to the discrepancy between the actual votes cast as recorded by the card-readers and the results declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Responding to questions on the fortunes of the Labour Party (LP) at the ongoing governorship election petition tribunal sitting in Asaba, Delta state, Ezeagwu who bagged an award from Rotary International Club, Asaba, District 9140 Nigeria on Saturday, July 18, 2015 said:
“All of you who are pressmen knew what happened during the elections in Delta state. So, for this Tribunal not to cancel this election, would be an abberation. There is no two ways about it.
“Every Deltan who witnessed the election must know that there were no elections in Delta state and coupled with when the card-reader is reading about 700,000, the winner got 700,000 and INEC declared over one million is a fraud.”
Three petitions are currently before the three-man Tribunal headed by Justice Nasiru Gunmi, challenging the declaration of Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as winner of the April 11 governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The petitions were filed by Chief Great Ogboru of Labour Party, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and Mr. Paul Isamade of Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN).
Recall that Senator Okowa of the PDP scored 724, 680 votes to defeat the Labour Party (LP) Candidate Chief Great Ogboru who scored 130, 028 votes in second place and the All Progressive Congress (APC) candidate Olorogun O’tega Emerhor who came out third with 67, 825 votes.
Details of the results as announced by the Delta State Governorship election Returning Officer, Prof. Bio Nyananyo, are as follows:
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have again accused the All Progressive Congress (APC) and its gubernatorial candidate in the April 11 governorship election in Delta State, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor of stalling trials in the on-going Delta State Election Petition Tribunal.
INEC and PDP spoke through its counsel, Mr. A.T Kehinde on Thursday, July 23, 2015 at the resumed hearing of the pre-hearing conference proceedings at the Delta State Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
Kehinde told the Tribunal that counsel to APC and O’tega , Mr. Thomson Okpoko (SAN) were exploiting legal loopholes to frustrate the ongoing trail with the plethora of applications being brought before the Triibunal, arguing that, “My position with greatest respect is that justice delayed is justice denied, we must be giving a level playing ground to ventilate our clients position, his motion asking for better and further particulars have been caught by the previous ruling of this tribunal”.
Reacting to Kehinde’s submission, Mr. Okpoko argued that “I don’t think it’s right to suggest that there is an insinuation, or there is a suggestion, or an impression, or a perception created that somebody is delaying hearing of this election petition, we have been coming and we have been getting on with it.”
Okpoko had earlier told the Chairman of the three-man Tribunal, Justice. Nasiru Gunmi that he has six pending applications seeking the leave of the Tribunal for an enlargement of time within which to produce further and better particulars, motions seeking to strike out some paragraphs of the respondents reply to the petition and an application to call additional witnesses.
He told the Tribunals that the need for the extension of time was expedient as that will enable the court have modalities for the direction of the proceedings.
Justice Gunmi who used the opportunity to identify and harmonize all pending applications and motions from the petitioners and the respondents, in a ruling, said some of the motions and applications that will not lead to the termination of the Tribunal and were caught by the Tribunal’s previous rulings will be taken at the pre-hearing session.
He subsequently adjourned further hearing on the matter to Monday, August 3, 2015 for continuation of the pre-trial conference.
Three petitions are before the three-man Tribunal headed by Justice Nasiru Gunmi, challenging the declaration of Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as winner of the April 11 governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The petitions were filed by Chief Great Ogboru of Labour Party, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and Mr. Paul Isamade of Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN).
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The Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Delta State Governor, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has insisted that the collection and return of forms for the ongoing empowerment schemes initiated by state government is free and in line with government’s “Prosperity For All” agenda.CPS Aniagwu
Aniagwu added that the selection of participants will be strictly by merit in line with the fairness and equitable matrix of government.
A statement titled “Delta State Empowerment Programme Not For Sale” and made available to Blank NEWS Online on July 22, 2015 reads:
“It has come to the notice of the Delta State Government that some unscrupulous individuals are going about especially on the social media trying to collect money from applicants for the Youth Empowerment programme while giving them fake promises and assurances of getting them slots in the programme. This is not only sad but negates the objectives of the programme.
“The state government wish to state for the avoidance of doubt that the process for the collection and return of the forms is free in line with government’s “Prosperity For All” agenda while the selection of participants will be strictly by merit in line with the fairness and equitable matrix of government.
“The state government want also to reiterate that the programme is free and as such nobody should pay money to anybody for the empowerment programme and any request for money should be duly reported to security agencies for necessary action.
“We are working in concert with security agencies to nib in the bud this fraudulent attempt to rip innocent and vulnerable deltans and deny them of the benefits of the government empowerment programme. Be rest assured anyone caught in this fraudulent acts will be made to face the full wrath of the law no matter his or her position”.
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Governor of oil rich Delta state, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has urged the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to re-establish their office in the state due to the numerous benefits derivable from such.Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state
He said closing down its office in the state was not a good idea as the company still have a lot of business activities going on in the state, especially, loading its crude from the Forcados terminal.
While playing host to management of SPDC on a courtesy visit at Government House, Asaba, Governor Okowa, on Tuesday, July 21, 2015 said it was important for the oil company to re-open its operational office and show more presence in the state.
The Governor also urged Shell and other corporate organisations to partner with the state in the areas of empowering the people, disclosing that the youths empowerment programmes of his administration has provided enough window for them to key in.
“We are glad that you (Shell) are still exporting crude through the Forcados terminal and still have other assets in the state, Shell cannot wish Delta State away from its business relationship, we have a long shared relationship with Shell as one of its founding areas in the country, your leaving Delta State has some economic impact on the state, we would be glad to have your office back to the state.
“Your visit today is very re-assuring, we will do our best to protect and provide conducive business environment and the best of services for investors in the state.”
The management team of SPDC was led by Engr. Osagie Okunbor who had earlier congratulated Senator Okowa on his emergence as Governor and assured him of SPDC’s preparedness to support his administration’s agenda of a prosperous Delta State, stating that the company still have a lot of assets in the state despite divesting its operations.
*Vigilance Against Pipeline Vandals:
In another development, Governor Okowa called on communities to be vigilant against pipeline vandalism as acts of vandalism was affecting the resources of the state.
The Governor observed that allocations to the state from the Federation Account was always affected when crude oil from the state are lost due to pipeline vandalism, disclosing that in April, 2015, the state lost three million barrels of crude oil as a result of criminal attacks on oil pipelines, noting that as such, revenue accruing to the state as a result of its oil output was reduced.
Speaking when members of Ukoko R’Ivie R’Urhobo which is the umbrella body of government recognised traditional rulers from Delta Central Senatorial District paid him a congratulatory visit on Tuesday, Okowa said:
“I want to say to Deltans that we should be more vigilant against pipleline vandals, they are doing us a lot of disservice because for the indices that has been sent to us, we lost in the month of April alone about three million barrels of oil, it will reflect in this July allocation that will be sent to us. We lost as much as three million barrels that would have been accounted for through Delta State because of that action that happened in April.
“In the revenue allocation we are going to lose an equivalent of three million barrels that would have come to the state, so, when it comes to the issue of derivation, instead of the eleven million barrels that we were supposed to produce as a state for the month of April, we have about eight million barrels and that definitely is going to affect us so much in the allocation we are going to have this month, so, we pray that our brothers and young ones will try to cooperate with us to ensure that we don’t have such things reoccurring in the future.”
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Blank NEWS Online can disclose what had been said during the meeting between Muhammadu Buhari and Barack Obama on Monday, July 20, 2015 at Oval office of the White House in the United States. President Muhammadu Buhari meets with his American counterpart Barack Obama at Oval office of the White House.
In the first official encounter of the politicians, President Obama characterized his Nigerian colleague as a “man of integrity”.
Speaking further about the role of Nigeria on the African continent, Obama was quoted as saying by Adesina:
“Wherever Nigeria goes, Africa goes. The continent’s destiny is tied to Nigeria’s.”Round Table Talk
The American president stressed the importance of keeping Nigeria united, because a divided country can never succeed.
“Turn the diversity of Nigeria to source of strength.”
Regarding the battle against Boko Haram insurgency, Obama advised Buhari to combine military action with social and economic programmes.
Obama expressed confidence that “President Buhari has a very clear agenda of defeating Boko Haram and extremists of all sorts… and of rooting out the corruption that has too often held back the economic growth and prosperity of his country.”
Barack Obama assured that the US will partner with Nigeria so that the country “ends up being not only an anchor of prosperity and stability in the eastern part of the continent, but can also be an outstanding role model for developing countries around the world”.
He also said that he would discuss with Buhari the most effective ways of cooperation to end insurgency and how the American side can help Nigeria.
He further pledged US commitment to cooperating with Nigeria as long as the country “remains on course”.
Apart from that, the American leader addressed members of Buhari’s entourage, urging the five accompanying governors, so as other officials, to assist President Buhari.
The Nigerian leader, on his part, thanked his colleague for the invitation and said that it was partially diplomatic pressure from the US and international community that helped Nigeria conduct democratic elections.
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The Chief of Staff to the Government of Delta state and former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tam Brisibe, has described Rotary International as a breeding ground for leadership development.Tam Brisibe, Delta Chief of Staff
Brisibe, who bagged an award from Rotary International Club, Asaba, District 9140 Nigeria on Saturday, July 18, 2015 noted that the “Rotary International Club has a noble objective of bringing together business builders and professionals for humanitarian services who uphold the highest ethical standard in their vocation.”
Brisibe, a former Chairman, House of Representatives committee on Petroleum Resources Downstream, Upstream and co-sponsor of the Local Content Bill in the oil industry among others, assured that the Delta state government’s SMART agenda is a sure bet for sustainable development with the greatest happiness of the greatest number.Dr. Tony Nwokolobia received the award on behalf of Hon. Tam Brisibe
Hon. Brisibe, who was represented by Dr. Tony Nwokolobia, advised the newly inaugurated President for 2015/2016 Rotarian year, Rtn. Peter Itawansa (PHF) to continue to propagate the ideals, tenets and the philosophy which Rotary International Club represents.
While thanking the Rotary International Club for the singular recognition, Nwokolobia recalled that the award recipient, Hon. Tam Brisibe, being among the first political appointees of Governor Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, it goes to show that he is committed to humanity and prepared to serve to the best of his capabilities.
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A new Nigeria is happening and it will require the commitment of all Nigerians, according to Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo during an interactive session he held with Nigerians based in Addis Ababa last night. Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo
The Vice President who had just returned to Abuja today after speaking and participating at the 3rd international conference on Financing for Development hosted by the United Nations at the Ethiopian capital had his first meeting with Nigerians abroad after the assumption of office.
At the meeting hosted by the Nigeria’s Envoy to Ethiopia and the African Union, Ambassador Usman Baraya, the Vice President said “there is so much hope and expectations. A new Nigeria is happening, we are going to see a new Nigeria.”
According to him, “the reason why I am so convinced is because everyone of us one way or the other believe that there should be a change. I am not saying those who voted for President Muhammadu Buhari and myself, even if it was the other govt, everyone of us expected some kind of change.”
He noted that Nigerians are committed to the “good of our nation, it is the only place we can call home and there is no reason why it cannot be the best place in the world.”
Continuing Vice President Osinbajo said “the President and I are committed to the good of Nigeria. Our country deserves the very best and does not deserve what it has got for so many years.”
Prof. Osinbajo recalled the level of hope and expectations from Nigerians during the campaign, narrating how people showed that hope even to the then presidential candidate Buhari and himself, including “when poor people were offering us small amounts of money because they believed and expected a better Nigeria. Even in poverty, Nigerians are noble.”
Reiterating the President’s determination to deliver the change promised during the campaigns, VP Osinbajo assured that the new administration will ensure that things are done very well.
Said he: “the ideas are there, we just need to do a good job with implementation, and that is what we shall do.
Asked about the current workers’ salary bail-out by President Muhammadu Buhari, the VP clarified again that the monies from the Excess Crude Account was not used but proceeds in dividends and taxes from the LNG were released for sharing.
Specifically, the Vice President explained the bail-out package approved by President Buhari is a three-pronged relief package that will end the workers plight.
These are:
*The sharing of about $2.1B from LNG proceeds, made up of $1.6B in taxes and $500m in dividends. The money is released for the payment of workers salaries, which has been unpaid for several months is many states.
* A Central Bank-packaged special intervention fund that will offer financing to the states, ranging from between N250B to N300B. This would be a soft loan available to states to access for the purposes of paying backlog of salaries.
*A debt relief program designed by the Debt Management Office, DMO, and the CBN which will help states restructure their commercial loans currently put at over N660B, and extend the life span of such loans while reducing their debt-servicing expenditures.
This third option, by extending the commercial loans of the states, would therefore make available more funds to the state governments which otherwise would have been removed at source by the banks. The federal government will sway its financial muscle to guarantee the elongation of the loans for the benefit of the states.
In all of these, the country’s debt profile will not be increased, the VP explained.
Asked how the states would not end up in the future in a similar crisis situation requiring federal government’s intervention again, the Vice President outlined a number of ideas.
First, he said states must do more to increase internally generated revenue, while also urging them to put workers salaries as a first line charge in their expenditure.
Besides, he stated the need for states to clean-up their payrolls to ensure that ghost workers are eliminated.
Another plan he disclosed is to ensure that all state governments will have a vibrant Debt Management Office, DMO, while ensuring a general atmosphere of transparency and accountability in their public expenditures.
During the interaction many of the Nigerians in attendance expressed confidence in the Buhari presidency, noting that the new government have re-energized and motivated Nigerians to support the President in taking Nigeria to where it belongs.
Among dignitaries at the interaction were the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, Mrs. Anastasia Mabi Daniel-Nwaobi, Nigeria’s Envoy to Ethiopia, Ambassador Usman Baraya, Professor Babatunde Osotimehim, the Executive Director of the United Nations Fund for Population Activities, UNFPA, Nigeria’s Deputy Permanent Representative at the United Nations, Ambassador Usman Sarki and Dr. Mansur Muhtar, former Finance Minister among others.
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Governor of Nigeria’s oil wealthy Delta state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, has formally dissolved the Board of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC).
The dissolution of the Commission’s Board by the governor was contained in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hon. Festus Ovie Agas on Monday, July 13, 2015.
The statement urged members of the Commission to return government property, including vehicles in their possession, and commended them for their selfless services throughout their tenure.
About ESOPADEC
The Board of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) was set up in July, 2007, to execute a clear and critical mandate; to rehabilitate, rejuvenate and resuscitate the peoples and communities of the oil producing areas of Delta State. This mandate is stated unequivocally in Section 13 (i) of the enabling law which set up DESOPADEC and states that the Commission shall “receive and administer exclusively the fifty percent (50%) of the thirteen percent (13%) Oil Derivation Fund accruing to the Delta State Government for:
(a) The rehabilitation and development of Oil Producing Areas in the State, and
(b) Other development projects as may be determined from time to time by the Commission.
The composition of the Board of Commission was carried out according to the production quantum of each of the oil producing ethnic nationalities that made up the oil producing area of Delta state and after due consultations with all the major stakeholders in the region, including the Youths, Women, elders and traditional institutions, the action plan of DESOPADEC was then defined in consonance with the 3-Point Agenda of the Administration of His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, Governor of Delta State which are: Peace and Security, Human Capital Development and Infrastructural Development.
A Bill awaiting the consent of the governor on its composition and structure is currently undergoing amendments in the state House of Assembly.
Although it had retroactive effect from 1st August 2006, under the governorship of Chief James O. Ibori.
A board of DESOPADEC with an executive chairman and commissioners from the oil-bearing ethnic nationalities in the state were subsequently put in place. On July 4, 2007 theDelta State House of Assembly led by Rt. Hon.(Dr) Olisa Imegwu passed a resolution calling on Governor EmmanuelUduaghan to dissolve the board over issues of improper membership of commissioners. Later on July 16, 2007 the government re-inaugurated the
board.
ACTIVITIES OF DESOPADEC
The law establishing the Commission in Section 14 empowers it to:
(i) Manage and supervise the affairs of the Commission;
(ii) Enter into contract as may be necessary or expedient for thedischarge of its functions and ensure the efficient performance of the functions of the Commission in accordance with
government financial regulations;
(iii) Establish and maintain such number of departments as it may deem fit for the effective discharge of its functions;
(iv) Pay the staff of the Commission such remunerations andallowances as appropriate;
(v) Make rules and regulations for carrying out the functions of theCommission; and
(vi) Do other such things as are necessary and expedient for the efficient performance of the functions of the Commission.
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Blank NEWS Online can report that Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of new military chiefs, shortly after he relieved the former Service Chiefs, including the National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki of their jobs.
The new Service Chiefs are:
1. Major-General Abayomi Gabriel Olonishakin – Chief of Defence Staff;
2. Major-General T.Y. Buratai – Chief of Army Staff
3. Rear Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas – Chief of Naval Staff
4. Air Vice Marshal Sadique Abubakar – Chief of Air Staff
5. Air Vice Marshal Monday Riku Morgan – Chief of Defence Intelligence
6. Major-General Babagana Monguno (rtd.) – National Security Adviser
The new Chief of Defence Staff, Maj.-Gen. Olonishakin (N/6901) hails from Ekiti State. Until his appointment as Chief of Defence Staff today, he was the Head of the Nigerian Army Training and Doctrine Command in Minna, Niger State.
The new Chief of Army Staff, Maj.-Gen. Buratai hails from Borno State. Until his new appointment today, he was the Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force which has its headquarters in Ndjamena. Maj-Gen. Buratai has previously served as Commander of the Nigerian Army’s 2nd Brigade in Port Harcourt and Commander of the Nigerian Army School of Infantry in Jaji, Kaduna State.
The new Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Ibas (NN/0746) hails from Cross River State. He enlisted into the Nigerian Defence Academy as a member of the 26th Regular Course in 1979 and was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant in 1983. His previous appointments include: Naval Provost Marshal, Chief Staff Officer, Naval Training Command, Chief of Administration, Naval Headquarters, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command and Chief of Logistics, Naval Headquarters. Until his appointment as Chief of Naval Staff, he was the Chief Executive Officer of Navy Holdings Limited.
The new Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar (NAF/1433) hails from Bauchi State. His previous appointments include: Chief of Standards and Evaluation, NAF Headquarters; Chief of Defence Communications and Air Officer Commanding, NAF Training Command. Until his new appointment today as Chief of Air Staff, he was the Chief of Administration, NAF Headquarters.
The new Service Chiefs will hold their appointments in an acting capacity until confirmed by the Senate.
A statement by Presidential Media Adviser, Femi Adesina, stated that “President Buhari thanks the outgoing Service Chiefs and National Security Adviser for their services to the nation and wishes them well in their future endeavours”.
Those relieved of their jobs on Monday morning are the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh, Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Kenneth Minimah, Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Usman jubril and Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Adesola Amosun.
The Service Chiefs who are statutorily heads of the country’s military apparatus were appointed by the immediate past President Goodluck Jonathan in January 2014.
As at the time of filling this report, the replacements are yet to be announced.
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President Muhammadu Buhari has approved a three-pronged, long term financial relief package to stave off the embarrassing economic situation the last administration, especially state governments, plunged the country into.
To this end, the bailout would also put an end to myriad of complaints from newly sworn in state governors on state finances.
The bailout is coming on the heels of the recent Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) and the National Economic Council (NEC) meetings. In his inaugural speech at the NEC meeting, President Buhari, irked by Nigerian workers’ plight asked the council to urgently end issues of unpaid salaries.
Apart from the direct cash bailout, the three tiers of government (Federal, States and Local Governments) will share $1.7 billion from the Excess Crude Account (ECA).
The Accountant General of the Federation, Ahmed Idris, revealed he had been instructed to share the money left in the ECA. “We are going to distribute as agreed and directed during the NEC meeting last week. And the position was very clear that what we met on the ground is what we are going to distribute among the three tiers of governments: the federal, state and local governments based on the approved formula.”
Also, about $2.1 billion (N413.7bn) in fresh allocation, sourced from recent NLNG (Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas) proceeds to the Federation Account, would also be shared between states and federal government, using the revenue allocation formula.
To ease the plight of states with backlog of salaries, there is another Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)-packaged special intervention fund (soft loans available to states to access) ranging from between N250 billion and N300 billion.
Meanwhile, the Governor of the CBN, Godwin Emefiele, had directed state Commissioners for Finance to ensure that their states access the special intervention fund.
A debt relief programme has also been proposed by the Debt Management Office (DMO) to assist states restructure their commercial loans currently put at over N660 billion and extend the tenure of the loans to 15 years to reduce debt service liabilities.
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Nigeria, July 11, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) –
Labour Party (LP) governorship aspirant in the just concluded governorship election in Delta State, Chief Great Ogboru, Friday, July 10, made a dramatic u-turn during proceedings at the state governorship election petition tribunal when he hurriedly withdrew a motion –on –notice seeking to inspect election materials.
Ogboru, through his counsel, Mr. Dele Adesino (SAN) had approached the tribunal urging it to compel Independent National Electorial Commission (INEC) to make available and allow for inspection of materials used in the conduct of April governorship election in the state.
Ogboru , among other prayers in the notion also prayed the tribunal to bar respondents in his petition( PDP and INEC) from participating or been present during the inspection , arguing that such will hinder the smooth adjudication of the matter.
While opposing the motion, lead counsel to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa , PDP, INEC Dr. Alex Izyion (SAN), represented by Mr. Ken Mozie objected vehemently to the teams for the inspection, arguing that “we are not opposed to the motion to inspect the electoral materials but we want to be joined during the inspection”
Mozie further pointed out that “today’s motion is not the same motion of yesterday which came my way of ex-parte motion, the reliefs sought in this motions on notice have increased, and if we are not joined in the inspection, we will oppose it and we will need time to espouse our argument”.
‘We received the application , for reasons which I will indicate, we would required out time to oppose this application, to file our reaction, I say so because yesterday (Thursday) when there was an indication that they had an ex-parte motion, we had indicated we will not oppose, but we want joint inspection, and they indicated they will withdraw reliefs three and four, but today( Friday) they went back an filed a motion, not only have they increased the reliefs sought , they have expressly indicated that instead of joint inspection, they are asking for liberty to attend if we so desire”
He further state that Ogboru’s motion indicated that “ an affidavit has been deposited by a lawyer saying that he has an experience that joint inspection will frustrate the inspection and trailer “arguing that “my lord my experience spanning over s decade have exposed the danger of allowing one party to unrestricted access to sensitive material, so we want time so that we join issues”.
It was at this point that, Ogboru through his counsel, Mr. Adesino, who was represented by Mr. Robert Emukpoeruo, quickly made a u-turn, informing the tribunal of their desire to withdraw the petition, saying , “I plead your lordship indulgence to withdraw this application”.
Consequent upon this ground, Tribunal Chairman, Mr. Nasiru Dunmi, who had earlier giving three separate rulings from the day’s proceedings struck out the motion?
In a similar ruling justice Gunmi also rejected the application made by All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Olorogun O’tegar Emerhor , seeking for the extension of time from the tribunal to enable him perfect some documentation.
Emerhor had earlier made the oral application at the commencement of proceeding through his counsel, Mr Thomson Opkoko (SAN) for extention of time. But the tribunal chairman, Gunmi, over ruled that application urging Emerhor to follow due process by filing a motion on notice to the effect. This came after INEC and PDP legal team vehemently opposed to the application for extension of time.
Justice Gunmi , also ruled that pre-hearing conference in the petition commenced since 23rd of June 2015, saying that all the tribunal proceeding from that date till now should be deemed to be a pre-trial hearing in the petition.
Justice Gunmi, however, adjourned tribunal proceedings to 23rd and 24th of July 2015 for the continuation of pre-trail conference in the petition.
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Rivers state Governor Nyesom Wike, on Thursday night swore in twenty two caretaker committee Chairmen to replace the elected council executives dissolved by a a Federal High court ruling delivered by Justice Lambo Akanbi, Thursday morning.Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers state
The governor said he vowed to respect the rule of law when he assumed office on May 29, stressing that it was why he did not dissolve what he termed the illegality put in place by the outgone government.
According to him, some state governors had gone ahead to dissolve local government councils when they came on board but he took time to allow due process.
The governor said he did not dissolve the twenty two local government areas, noting that it was the decision of the court. He said the caretaker committees had to be sworn to avoid any vacuum in government.
The governor warned the newly sworn in caretaker committee Chairmen to ensure they discharge their responsibilities effectively, stressing that he would not hesitate to sack anyone found wanting.Governor Wike further reminded the caretaker committee chairmen that their appointment was not political patronage.
Recall that the Federal High court in Rivers State on Thursday, dismissed the 22 local government council chairmen in the state.
The local government chairmen were fired because their election contravened a court order which had earlier been issued restraining it, Justice Lambo Akanbi, the prciding judge said.
Lambo also dissolved the local government councils.
The local government election that brought on board the now dismissed local government chairmen was conducted by former governor of the state, Rotimi Amaechi of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
*Rivers PDP Applauds Dissolution of LG Council
The chairman of the Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Bro Felix Obuah says the nullification of the illegal Local Government Council election in the State by the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt is a welcome development.
The PDP chairman said by this impartial judgement, the Court has once more strengthened the confidence and trust of the people in the Nigerian judiciary as the last hope of the common man.
Thanking God for vindicating the party’s position that there was no council election in the State, Bro Obuah noted that the court victory is not only for the PDP but also the entire Rivers people who are the beneficiaries of the sanity and rules of law that have been ushered in by the council election nullification
He however appealed for calm and co-operation from all, saying that the Nyesom Wike led-government is humane and capable of instituting a legacy that will serve the general good of all Rivers people being the Governor of Rivers State and not Governor of PDP.
*This is travesty of justice – Rivers APC
The Rivers State Chapter of All Progressives Congress, APC is saddened that despite his earlier ruling to stand down the matter until the appeal questioning the jurisdiction of his court is determined by the Appeal Court from October 12, Justice Lambo Akanbi, this morning, handed out ruling on a matter that was awaiting a decision of the Appeal Court.
Without any hearing notice to parties except, perhaps, to the PDP, Justice Akanbi presiding over Federal High Court 1 in Port Harcourt commenced sitting this morning and quickly handed down a ruling in respect of a matter between PDP and other parties including the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission [RSIEC] voiding the election of 22 Local Council Chairmen and Councillors in Rivers State. He claimed to have earlier ordered that the elections should not hold.
However, that position by Justice Akanbi is far from what transpired in the matter.
The truth of the matter remains that there is a pending appeal on the substantive case in which same Justice Akanbi on the 29th of April gave as reason for adjourning the matter sine die until the appeal is dispensed with beginning from 12th October. How come Justice Akanbi decided to bring forward the matter without even serving hearing notices to the parties? Why does Justice Akanbi want to ambush and foist on the Court of Appeal a situation of hopelessness? What business does Justice Akanbi have in reopening the matter other than fragrant display of judicial rascality?
It is important to re-iterate here that APC applied to join in the matter which the Judge turned down and APC immediately proceeded to appeal that refusal to be joined and that appeal is also pending. Why has Justice Akanbi acted in a manner aimed at frustrating that appeal?
As a law-abiding party, the APC would like to appeal to the elected Chairmen, Councillors and its numerous members across Rivers State to disregard any ruling of any court other than that of the Court of Appeal which will sit on October 12, 2015 of which notice of hearing has been served on all parties.
More so, APC is not bound by the court ruling handed down today by Justice Akanbi because APC duly applied to join in the matter and when the learned Justice refused the joiner application, the party proceeded to appeal that refusal, an appeal that is still pending at the Court of Appeal. Why did Justice Akanbi not wait for the Court of Appeal ruling on the APC application before proceeding with the matter? Therefore, the APC will wait and abide by the decision of the Court of Appeal, in line with the earlier Order of Justice Akanbi himself that the matter can only be reopened after it has been dispensed with by the Court of Appeal which has already served all parties notice of hearing. ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Delta State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal chairman, Mr. Nasiru Gunmi has turned down an ex-party motion brought by Labour Party (LP) governorship aspirant, Chief Great Ogboru, seeking to inspect documents from Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office.
Gunmi ruled that Ogboru “should come by way of motion- on- notice to enable all the respondents (PDP, INEC) in the matter be served and placed on notice, so that they can respond as there is nothing urgent in the request”.
Three petitions are before the three-man tribunal headed by Justice Nasiru Gunmi, challenging the declaration of Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as winner of the April 11 governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The petitions were filed by Chief Great Ogboru of Labour Party, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and Mr. Paul Isamade of Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN).
At the resumed hearing of the petition filed Ogboru through his counsel Dele Adesina, who was represented by Mr. Robert Emukpoeruo , filed an ex-party motion seeking the leave of the court to inspects the electoral materials.
Counsel to the respondents Dr. Alex Iziyon while objecting to the ex-party motion argued that “there is nothing so urgent in the matter that would warrant an ex-party motion, we want to be served and be present during the inspection so that we can know what is going on.”
“We have an interest in every detail, we want to be properly served, if we are served, we are ready to respond and it must be a joint inspection”.
Justice Gumi had earlier entertained arguments from Iziyon and Emerhors’ counsel, Mr. D.A.Okpoko (SAN) on the desirability or otherwise for extension of time to enable the pre- trial hearing in an application commence.
Okpoko in his argument urged the court to grant him more time to file information sheet of form ET 008 which will nable them support their petition and argument in the substantive suit, adding that the tribunal has the power to grant the application.
But Iziyon countered that the tribunal lack the necessary legal powers to grant the application as it was prohibited by the provision of paragraph 18(4) of the first schedule of the Electoral Act, adding that “even if the tribunal have such powers or discretion, it cannot grant this application since no material has been placed to justify of that discretion’.
Iziyon told the tribunal that Emerhor, through his lawyer was abusing the court process, as seven fresh application are pending before the court which has not been argued as such wasting the time of the court.
“We are been moved into a macabre dance in this court, as no form ET008 is before the court, asking that the court should dismiss the application and treat it as abandoned as there was no application for extension of time’
In his ruling , Justice Gumi allowed the Emerhor to proceed with the re-hearing trail as he adjourned till 10th July 2015 for ruling for the petitioners to file more documents in the suit.***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter @blanknewsonlin1
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Nigeria, July 09, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) –
It is hereby announced for the information of the general public, particularly candidates who collected the Delta State Government Job/Creation Application Forms, that the closing date for the submission of the completed application forms is Friday, July 10, 2015.
Accordingly, applicants who filled the forms either in hard copies or online, are by this announcement requested to submit the forms at the Office of the Chief Job Creation Officer, plot No.1 Core Area, Phase 1, Illah Road, (Former Senator Okowa’s Campaign Office Opposite Temple Clinic Junction), Asaba.
It is stressed that the submission of forms will close at 4 pm on Friday, July 10, 2015.
Paul Osahor
Director of Information
Delta State
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has approved the creation of social media unit to be domiciled in the governor’s office, considering its role in governance.Gov. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal
A statement by the Governor’s spokesman, Imam Imam, said the new Unit, which is expected to operate closely with the office of the SA on Media and Public Affairs, will enjoy the same privileges as the media crew attached to Government House.
The Social Media Unit will coordinate the activities of all pro-government online groups, and will interact, on behalf of the government, with interested persons and groups seeking information about government’s policies and programmes.
While urging those to supervise the running of the unit to be dedicated in the discharge of their responsibilities, the Governor said his administration will widen the avenue of interaction with special groups, especially the youths.
He said adequate training will be organised for the youths to equip them with the latest knowledge in online information management.
“By the creation of this Unit, we hope to engage our youths and also get their inputs in the running of the government.
“Our youths played critical roles during the campaigns to mobilise our people for the task ahead. We want them to do more by offering quality suggestions on their vision for Sokoto State,” the statement added.
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DELTA State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has allayed fears over the completion of the multi-billion naira Asaba-Ughelli dual carriage way project.
This is just as the State Government has commenced repairs and maintenance works on the Asaba/Ogwashi-uku/Kwale/Ughelli road project so as to curb the effects of erosion.
Speaking during an unscheduled inspection on the on-going remedial work along the section C axis of the road in Ogwashi-Uku Thursday, July 9, 2015, Governor Okowa said road was an important project because it linked the East- West Road connecting Delta State to other states in the South-South region, disclosing that he was still being briefed about the project.
According to him, “this is an important road linking the East West road from Asaba to Ughelli, we cannot abandon the project, for section C and section A of the project, we are going to find out what caused the delay in the execution of the project and know what to do.”
“From what I have gathered so far, we are going to review the entire process in Section C, we were told it is an eight-lane road in some area, I don’t think the road is that busy for us to have an 8-lane road, we need to bring it to a size that is realistic and affordable, it is our duty to ensure that the road is motorable,” the Governor said.
On the failed portion of the road, Senator Okowa said, “I asked the DLA (Direct Labour Agency) to intervene despite the fact that there is a contractor for the project and you can see that they have done a lot of work, they have done the filling and the road is passable.”
The Site Engineer, Fred Agbanure who conducted the governor round said that flood water was being properly channelled, and more equipment would be moved to the site to ensure speedy completion of the work.
He also disclosing that within the next seven days, asphalt would be laid on the road.
Also Speaking earlier when he led a team comprising the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Dona Umukoro and top ministry’s officials on an inspection visit to the Asaba-Ogwashi-Uku-Kwale Section of the road on Wednesday, July 8, 2015, the state Commissioner of Works, Chief James Augoye explained that gullies created by erosions has caused a lot of damage on the road adding that measures were being put in place to stop further damages on the road.
He emphasized that “The governor of Delta State Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa is very passionate and concerned about our roads especially this part of the road which has been affected drastically by erosion and he has given the directive for the immediate repairs which will begin today”.
Chief Augoye disclosed that the Direct Labour Agency(DLA) would begin immediate excavation of the erosion damaged portions of the road while the ULO Construction Ltd. would assist by “putting permanent measures through the construction of drainages which will take care of erosions by directing water from the roads because with the current situation the road will experience further degradation during this rainy season” he added.
He gave the assurance that the work will be concluded very soon so as improve vehicular movement during the forthcoming rainy season.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has called for synergy between the National Assembly and the Presidency to check insurgency.Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (left) and the Speaker, House of Representative, Rt Hon Yakubu Dogara, during a courtesy call by the Speaker, House of Representatives, on Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in Asaba.
The Governor made the call on Monday, July, 20115 when the Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara led some members of the House of Representatives to pay him a courtesy visit at the government house, Asaba.
Governor Okowa who decried the magnitude of damage caused in the country as a result of insurgency, stated that President Mohamadu Buhari requires the support of all Nigerians, especially, the National Assembly to tackle the menace.
“I believe that the backbone of Mr President is the National Assembly, I urge for collaboration between the National Assembly and the Presidency without tampering with independence of the Assembly,” he said, adding, “we in Delta State are praying that God will give the National Assembly and President Buhari the wisdom to handle the issues of insurgency in the nation.”
He reiterated, “we regret the death of people as a result of the insurgency, when we collectively talk with one mind, pray together, we will overcome this insurgency, we require divine intervention at this point in time.”
Senator Okowa used the occasion to challenge the National Assembly to speedily pass the Petroleum Industry Bill and the National Health Insurance Scheme Bill because of the importance of such bills to the development of Nigeria.
“I want to thank you for bringing the PIB bill to fore, it is my prayer that we can speedily pass the bill in both houses and it gets a quick assent from the President because, non-passage of this bill has set the country backward, I pray that it is passed early in the life of this Assembly,” the Governor stated adding that the passage of the NHIS bill was very important as it will affect the generality of Nigerians.
According to him, the NHIS bill desires speedy attention because the NHIS act of 2004 was not all inclusive, decrying a situation where the number of Nigerians covered by Health insurance is still below 20 per cent.
“If we truly want to touch the lives of the poor, it is to touch their health and education, once we get it right, you have truly touched them,” he said.
While congratulating Rt. Hon. Dogara for his successful emergence as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Governor expressed confidence in the ability of the Speaker to lead a vibrant and robust Assembly.
Earlier, Rt. Hon. Dogara who said he was in Asaba to commission a project executed by the member representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, described Governor Okowa as a man who knew what he wants for his people, noting that while some Governors were still contemplating on what to do about governance, Governor Okowa “has hit the ground running.”
“I am quite impressed with the quality of personalities you have as Commissioners,” he said, and thanked the Governor for his support during the race for the Speakership position.”
In the same vein, Governor Okowa and Speaker Dogara have said Godly upbringing of children will position Nigeria for a greater future.From left: Mrakpor, Okowa & Dogara
The duo observed that instilling in the children the fear of God will make the future generations to desist from engaging in actions which are inimical to the society.
They spoke on Tuesday, July 2015 at the birthday and thanksgiving ceremony of the member representing Aniocha/Oshimili constituency in the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Mrs Amaechi Mrakpor.
The event which took place at Ubulu-Uku, Aniocha South local government area of the state was also, used to dedicate King Jesus & I Ministry’s Covenant Alter of Testimony.
Governor Okowa specifically said, “as parents, let us learn to build a good foundation for our children, foundation based on the teaching of God, foundation that will last forever.”
“The only way to build a lasting peace is for our parents to return to God and with that we build a better future for our family, Delta State and for Nigeria,” Senator Okowa said.
He described the building of alters to God as very good as it positions the individuals to serve God, asserting, “by the time you build an alter for God, when you are going wrong, when you are going against God and you remember that the alter exists, you correct yourself and do the right thing.”
While congratulating Hon. Mrakpor, Governor Okowa urged politicians to make the society a better place by being Godly in their activities.
Rt. Hon. Dogara stated that Nigeria will be a better country with prayers, adding that Nigeria can be exalted on account of prayers.
According to him, “if Delta State is to be exalted, if Nigeria is to be exalted, it will be on account of prayers, if you pray for your Governor and national leaders for righteousness to reign in the affairs of the state and the nation, it will reflect on the citizens and we need proper moral upbringing of our children” asserting, “these are uncommon times and when we hear of the uncommon happenings, our hearts will begin to fail us, all we need is prayer that is why covenant alters like this one is very necessary in the lives of the nation.”
Arch-Bishop God-Do-Well Avwomakpa, chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) who delivered a sermon at the occasion observed that teaching the children the words of God was neccessary for them to know what angers God, reiterating, “if as parents, we do not teach the children, they may not know what angers God.”
While Arch-Bishop Avwomakpa emphasised that it was important to give to the Lord, Hon. Mrakpor thanked those who attended the ceremony, disclosing that the triple celebration was borne out of the need to celebrate God’s goodness to her, members of her family and her constituency.
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“All we are saying….Give us our jobs”. This was one of the protest songs rendered by aggrieved Deltans, mostly youths, who besieged the security tight Government House in Asaba over the sudden suspension of their appointments into the civil service.
The protesters, under the aegis of Congress of Newly Employed Civil Servants In Delta State, who thronged out in their hundreds and laid siege at the Government House gate from 08:00am till 04:00pm on Monday, July 06, 2015, displayed placards with various inscriptions: Protesters
Chairman and spokesman of the group, Mr. Regha Obukowho, whose employment was also suspended after resumption at the office of Establishment and Pensions, expressed dismay over the action of the state government and appealed for their immediate recall.
In an interview with Blank NEWS Online, Mr. Regha Obukowho, who spoke on behalf of the protesters explained that “The governor of Delta state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa placed suspension on our employment.
Continuing, he narrated that “The Delta state Civil Service Commission advertised in December 2013 and we all applied until we were shortlisted for interview and subsequently confirmed and issued appointment letters to resume work in our various ministries and agencies, having passed through the rigorous processes with the registration therein.
“For no just cause and without prior information and notification, on June 1, 2015 upon arrival at our various offices, we were told that the newly sworn in Governor of Delta state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has ordered that we should stop work and go home that we are under suspension and the reasons were not made known to us.”
He said the reason stipulated by the state government for the suspension was as a result of alleged irregularities in the employment process which led to the setting up of a committee to investigate the irregularities but so far, the committee is yet to make known its findings.
He however expressed fears that the state government has deviated from the original purpose of the suspension by claiming that it was as a result of the high debt profile and hugh wage bill of the state.
According to him, “the state government is presently deviating from the purpose of the suspension, claiming that the suspension was as a result of the high debt profile and huge wage bill of the state and that is not our cause. Before he became the governor of Delta state, the state government have been paying workers salaries promptly.”
The protesters who brandished placards wondered why the findings of the committee set up to look into the irregularities that led to the job suspension is yet to be made public.
“Our agitation is that those of us who are Deltans should be recalled to our various offices and places of work, while the investigation continues and the findings of the investigating panel should be made public.”
They further described the move by the state government as contrary to Article 4 in the appointment letters issued by the Civil Service Commission which stipulates that employees would be preinformed of any new development in the course of their appointment as none of the employees were considered on that note.
Article 4: “Your appointment will take effect from the day on which you assumed duty and you will be subject to a term and condition laid down for civil service of Delta state of Nigeria and to the civil service rule and other regulations in force for the time being. The appointment may be terminated by a month notice or payment of a month salary in lieu of notice.”
Meanwhile, the Secretary to the Delta State Government, Hon. Ovie Festus Agas, who met with the leadership of the protesters in his office, commended the suspended employees for their peaceful conduct while the protest lasted, saying that the state government is mindful of their predicament and determined to look into the issue dispassionately.Comrade Temple (right) addressing the protester
He therefore appealed to them to remain calm, as the state government would take an appropriate position on the issue which has remained in the front burner of the affairs of the state.
Earlier, SA Protocol to Governor Okowa, Comrade Temple, who addressed the protesters at the Government House gate, assured that the state government is considering their plights, adding that the outcome would be in the overall rating interest of Deltans.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka*News *Literati* Adverts
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Saturday terminated its contract with Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi after the NFF Executive Committee held an extra-ordinary meeting in Abuja.
Keshi
A statement from the football house stated “having thoroughly reviewed the reports/findings of the NFF Disciplinary Committee and NFF Technical and Development Committee, as well as having reviewed the actions and inactions of Mr Stephen Keshi, in the performance of his duties as Super Eagles’ Head Coach, which we found to lack the required commitment to achieve the Federation’s objectives as set out in the Coach’s employment contract.”
The statement further stated that “To this end and pursuant to the provisions of Clause 4.3 of the Employment Contract between Mr Stephen Keshi and the NFF (The Contract) and the various clauses therein, the Nigeria Football Federation has decided to exercise its option to summarily terminate the employment contract of Mr Stephen Keshi with the Federation with immediate effect.”
The NFF also added that Keshi’s sack was “without prejudice to the settlement of any existing and due financial obligations between the NFF and Mr Keshi.”
The federation through it’s first vice president, Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi, has appealed to Nigerians to remain calm as the NFF is doing everything it can to build a national team the country can be proud of while also revealing that Super Eagles assistant coach Salisu Yusuf and Technical Director of the NFF Shuaibu Amodu will handle affairs of the team before a suitable replacement is found.
“In the interim, the Super Eagles’ team affairs will be jointly managed by Assistant Coach Salisu Yusuf and the Technical Directorate of the NFF, headed by Coach Shuaibu Amodu, until the Federation names in due course a new Head Coach, who, along with the NFF will chart a new direction for the Super Eagles to ensure credible participation in international competitions and assist in building a sustainable football culture for the country,” said Akinwunmi.
Both the NFF spokesman, Ademola Olajire and Keshi’s manager, Emmanuel Ado confirmed the development which took most Nigerians by surprise.
53-year-old Stephen Okechukwu Keshi is a Nigerian former football defender has been the Super Eagles coach since 2011 and won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations with the Super Eagles. He is one of only two people, along with Egypt’s Mahmoud El-Gohary, to have won the Africa Cup of Nations as both a player and a coach.
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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka
Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has assured that his administration has zero tolerance for corruption in the management of government business.
While swearing in the first set of twelve new Commissioners and five Special Advisers on Friday, July 3, 2015, Governor Okowa who reminded the commissioners and special advisers that it is no longer business as usual in the management of government activities charged them to join him in the fight against corruption so as to retain the implicit confidence and trust the people repose on them.Commissioners taking oath of allegiance
“Corruption starves the state of valuable resources that could be used for infrastructural development, improve our educational systems, boost our healthcare system and take care of the poor and needy, even worse is that anywhere it is allowed to fester the cost of doing business becomes prohibitive. I want to seek the support and partnership of all public office holders to lead the fight against corruption in their respective offices, that is the only way to retain the trust and confidence the people have bestowed upon us.”
Okowa also charged all political appointees in his administration to shun ethnic politics and sectionalism and regard the entire state as their constituency, while stressing that they must be fair to all Deltans.
“I want to make it crystal clear that this administration has zero tolerance for sectionalism and nepotism. Given the pan-Delta mandate that brought us here we cannot afford to do any less. The horrible thing about ethnic politics is that it appeals to our worst instincts and fuels our greatest fears, adding ‘’as commissioners and special advisers, always remember that you have been appointed to serve the entire state, treat and give every citizen equal opportunity and the chance to realise his or her potentials and benefit from our programmes. People are looking up to see in you the qualities of fairness, equity and justice that are the articles of faith of this administration.”Special Advisers taking oath of allegiance
Senator Okowa who congratulated the commissioners and special advisers on their appointment urged them to key into the SMART agenda of his administration especially the job creation programmes stressing that ‘’it is incumbent on you to make the attainment of these lofty goals in the SMART agenda your watchword, they must be the focal point around which all your decisions and actions will revolve’’.Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (middle), Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, deputy Governor (left) and Chief Judge of Delta State, Hon. Justice Marshal Umukoro, during the Swearing-in Ceremony of recently confirmed Commissioners and Special Advisers
Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (right) Congratulating Barr. New-world Safugha, after being sworn-in as Commissioner.
Barr. Mrs. Mary Iyasere who responded on behalf of the newly sworn in commissioners and special advisers thanked Governor Okowa for the appointment and assured him of their readiness to join him in ensuring prosperity for all Deltans.
The newly sworn in Commissioners are Barr. Mrs Mary Iyasere (Commerce and Industry), Hon. John Nani (Environment), Dr. Kingsley Emu (Economic Planning), Chief James Augoye (Works), Mr. Vincent Uduaghan (Transport), Mr. Newworld Safugha (Energy), and Mr. Joseph Ogeh (Housing). Others are Mr. Fidelis Tilije (Water Resources Development), Rev. Mrs. Omashola Williams (Women Affairs), Mr. Austin Chikezie (Agriculture and Natural Resources), Hon. Joyce Overah (Science and Technology) and Mr. Chiedu Ebie (Basic and Secondary Education).
The special advisers are Bro. Emmanuel Ogidi (Rural Development and Peace Building), Sen. Emmanuel Aguariavwodo (Infrastructure and Housing Development), Rt. Hon. Martins Okonta (Land Resources and Legislative Matters), Hon. Pascal Adigwe (National Assembly Matters and Inter-governmental Liaison) and Comrade Mike Okeme (Labour Relations).
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“Be Creators Of Labor By Engaging In Entrepreneurial Schemes” Say Ogidi Gbegbaje
The Permanent Secretary Directorate of Government House and Protocol Mr. Edwin Ogidi-Gbebaje has charged youths to be creators of labor by availing themselves to the entrepreneurial schemes created by state government.
Speaking on Thursday, July 2, 2015 during the Send forth ceremony organized by the Directorate in honor of the Batch B National Youth Service Corp, Mr. Ogidi- Gbegbaje explained that due to the unemployment situation facing the nation youths should learn to be self reliant by keying into entrepreneurial schemes created by the state government rather than wait for white collar jobs.
“Due to the high unemployment rate in the country it is important that youths heed the clarion call to be creators of labor by keying into the entrepreneurial schemes by government instead of waiting for white collar jobs”.
He commended the outgoing corps members for their exemplary characters and service during their service in the Directorate saying ” During your service here there were no negative reports which speak volumes about your character and as you leave this Directorate maintain that good behavior and strength of character and I assure you that you will not be deterred as you go into the labour market”.
The Permanent Secretary charged them to be good ambassadors of the state adding that they should be self sufficient by creating opportunities for themselves rather than wait for white collar jobs.
In a brief response, Mr. Oyebode Khalulalim who spoke on behalf of his colleagues expressed appreciation for the support they received during their service in the Directorate.
Highlights of the occasion was the presentation of souvenirs to the outgoing corps members by the Permanent Secretary and other officers in the Directorate.
He continued “Another way to improve yourselves is by furthering your education so study subjects that will make you more marketable.”
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Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa has appointed Mr Kingsley Ikem Azuh as his Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties. Mr Kingsley Ikem Azuh
Azuh’s appointment has been lauded by many Deltans, including the Director of Information who remarked with joy that the appointment of Kingsley Azuh is an eloquent testimony to the fact that the State Governor has penchant to accord recognition to credibility, hard work and merit, even as he is desirous in putting square pegs in square holes.
He noted that by elevating Azuh to that exulted privilege position of service, it is now on record that Senator Okowa is the first Governor in Delta State who has taken cognizance of the vital role the Information Officers play as a link between the government and the people.
While thanking the Governor for the appointment of Azuh, the Information Director promised that Information Officers in the State Civil Service will continue to put in their best to publicize the activities of the Government especially the Government S.M.A.R.T Agenda, designed to build a virile and prosperous Delta, State.
He prayed Almighty God to give the Governor the wisdom, patience, good health and serenity to pilot the affairs of the State for growth and development.
The Director of Information equally seized the opportunity to felicitate with Mr Kingsley Azuh for the appointment, even as he urged him to work harder to justify the appointment.
He prayed God to give Mr Azuh the wisdom to discharge his duties efficiently and responsibly as a good ambassador of the State Ministry of Information.
Until his appointment, Mr Kingsley Ikem Azuh was an Assistant Chief Information Officer at the state Ministry of Information.
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MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
P. M. B. 5022
ASABA
DELTA STATE NIGERIA
Date: 2nd July, 2015
GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
It is hereby announced for the information of the general public particularly Deltans that His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, Governor of Delta State, will on Friday July 3, 2015, preside over the swearing-in ceremony of the Commissioners designate and Special Advisers, recently confirmed by the State House of Assembly.
Those to be sworn-in as Commissioners are:
1. Barr. Mrs Mary Iyasere
2. Hon. Barr. John Nani
3. Dr. kingsley Emu
4. Chief James Augoye
5. Mr. Vincent Uduaghan
6. Barr. NewWorld Safugha
7. Arch. Joseph Ogeh
8. Chief Fidelix Okenmor Tilije
9. Rev Omatshola Williams
10. Hon. Austin Chikezie
11. Hon. Joyce Overah
12. Mr. Chiedu Ebie
Similarly, the following persons would be sworn-in as Special Advisers,
1. Brother Emmanuel Ogidi
2. Senator Emmanuel Agwariavwodo
3. Rt. Hon. Martins Okonta
4. Hon. Pascal Adigwe
5. Comrade Michael A. Okeme
The ceremony will hold at the Event Centre, along Okpanam Road, Asaba at 11am prompt.
Accordingly, all top government functionaries, Permanent Secretaries, Chairmen and members of Statutory Boards and Commissions, Chairmen, Councilors and Supervisors in the 25 Local Government Councils in the State, Traditional Rulers, Party Chieftains, Captains of industry, relatives, friends and associates of the appointees and stakeholders in the Delta State Development project are by this announcement invited to attend the ceremony.
Guests are to be seated at the venue by 10.30 am prompt.
Paul Osahor
Director of Information
Delta State Official website: www.deltastate.gov.ng
On the request of President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo delivered a message of hope, restoration and comfort to Nigerians affected by the insurgency in the North East when he visited one of the several IDP camps in Maiduguri on Wednesday.
He also told Nigerians displaced by the insurgency that the federal government led by President Buhari will not rest until every one has been resettled back to their homes.
This was contained in a statement made available to Blank NEWS Online from the Office of the Senior Special Assistant, (Media and Publicity), The Presidency, Aso Rock on Thursday, July 02, 2015.
The Vice President, accompanied by the Borno State Governor Kashim Shetimma and the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mohammed Sani Sidi, visited the Dalori Camp in the state capital, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and the palace of the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Umar Garbai El-Kanemi.
One of the major highlights of his visit was his stop at the Teaching Hospital where he interacted with a number of bomb victims undergoing treatment in the hospital. There he met Aisha Ibrahim, a baby girl who suffered severe burns from a terrorist bomb explosion. Touching the baby girl and comforting the mother Ms. Mariam Ibrahim, Prof Osinbajo promised that plastic surgery would be explored to improve her situation and enhance her recovery.
Speaking at the Dalori camp, one of the 22 camps with over 18,000 IDPs, the VP said the President “out of great concern for the welfare and well being of the very many men, women and children who are in this camp, asked me to come and to join the Governor to see for myself what exactly is going on in the IDP camps.”
Continuing, he said the concern was not just for the IDP camps in Borno State, but all the other states -ie Adamawa and Yobe that have been affected by terrorist acts and insurgency.
“The President is extremely concerned especially about the welfare of the women and children, and of course the displacement of the people in the Northeast and in particular those who are here in Borno State, ” Osinbajo said after touring the camp interacting with the IDPs including men, women and children.
“President Buhari wanted me to go round and have some conversations, and we have tried to do so today. From the brief interactions I have had, it is quite clear there has been a great deal of human suffering, a great deal of trauma, ” the Vice President observed.
According to him, “the work of resettlement involves a great deal. It involves not just taking the people back to where they came from, but rebuilding their homes, rebuilding their markets, and rebuilding their places of worship.”
His visit to the camp, is only the beginning of the process, the VP explained, stressing that “our task has only just started, until every single person who is in a displaced camp is back in their homes, we cannot rest. Until every single child, who is an orphan is taken care of, we cannot rest.”
In order to accomplish the task, Prof Osinbajo noted that the federal government will be partnering with the state governments, development partners, and with the aid workers adding that “all of this, we must do within the shortest possible time, and that is exactly why I am here.”
Briefly hinting on the potential cost and the implications of that for an administration that inherited substantial and huge public debts, the VP stated that the rebuilding “is an enormous task and it involves a lot of money.”
He said, “as you know the administration is grappling with huge debts that the FG owes. In fact as you know, in the past few months, even in order to pay salaries of workers not just in the states but also in the FG, governments have had to look for ways and means to pay those salaries.”
Yet even under those circumstances, Osinbajo assured the IDPs that the federal government “knows that you who are suffering from terrorist acts are even worse off. That is why your matters are priorities to the federal government.”
During the visit he went into a temporary class room on the camp for children, speaking words of inspiration to them.
He told the children who gave a cheering applause that “the president has sent me to tell you that he is thinking about you everyday, and your parents everyday to make sure that you go back home and that you resettle and that you continue with your education.”
He added that “we are here to make sure that we see how you live here and how you are doing. And also to find out whatever support the government can give to you and your families. Very soon, you will be able to go back home.”
He concluded by telling the children “everyone of you will be a great Nigerian. You will all stay in school, you will be doctors, you will be lawyers, you will be engineers, you will be good politicians, you will be governors, you will be presidents. Yes, that is what will happen.”
The Vice President conveyed the appreciation and thanks of the President for the efforts of Governor Shetimma, NEMA, UNICEF, Red Cross, other development partners and all those who have been supporting the displaced Nigerians all across the IDP camps in the affected states.
All through the visits to the camp, the hospital, the palace and across town, the Vice President received a warm reception with the people lining up the streets waving, singing and applauding him.
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Governor of Nigeria’s oil wealthy Delta state, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has said Nigeria took the right steps by having laws against same sex marriage, describing it as unlawful union.
Speaking when members of the state chapter of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) paid him a courtesy visit in Asaba, Senator Okowa stated, “on same sex marriage, Nigeria has taken a position, the National Assembly has passed a law prohibiting it which was signed into law.”
“Nigeria has taken the right part when it comes to same sex marriage,” the Governor said adding that it was important for Nigerians to always have their trust in God to enable them succeed in their actions.
Immediate past Senior Special Adviser to the Delta State Government on Religious Matters, Rev. Godspower Agbuduta lauded Governor Okowa for kicking against same sex marriage, observing that gay marriage is un-African and anti-Christian.
“Nigeria is a disciplined nation, homosexuality is not of God, the entire Christian race don’t believe in that and I thank our Governor for taking a stand on the issue,” he said.
Recall that last week, the U.S. Supreme Court affixed a stamp of legitimacy on such marriages anywhere in the country.
The 5-4 Supreme Court decision on same-sex marriage amplified the ideological divided in the highest court in the United States. Meanwhile, all three female justices, two of whom were nominated to the highest bench by President Barack Obama, cast their net with the decision to allow same-sex marriage.
President Obama, a self-acknowledged convert to the idea of the humaneness and propriety of same-sex marriage, added his voice to the chorus of “amen” to the majority decision that gay people had the right to marry. The president said that “Today, we can say, in no uncertain terms, that we have made our union a little more perfect.” –
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Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) president, Chief Solomon Ogba is in the running for one of the nine individual IAAF Council member seats when elections come up on the first day of the 50th IAAF Congress scheduled for Beijing, China on August 19-20 2015.Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) president, Chief Solomon Ogba
Ogba’s name was among the 39 listed by the IAAF in its official newsletter released Tuesday in Monaco as contestants in the elections.
The former Delta state sports commissioner however, has a tough battle to confront as he faces such credible,famous Olympians as Namibia’s Frankie Fredericks (double sprints silver medallists at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta; Nawal El Moutawakel of Morocco who won the 400m hurdles gold at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, Bahama’s Pauline Davis-Thompson, Abby Hoffman of Canada,Alberto
Juantorena Danger of Portugal, Kenya’s Isaiah Kiplagat, Momar Mbaye and Theophile Montcho of Senegal and Benin Republic respectively as well as Irena Szewinska of Poland amongst other heavyweights former track and field internationals.
Also in the running for a seat in the IAAF Technical Committee is Navy Commodore Omatseye Nesiama, AFN technical director.
Former General Secretary of the AFN, Maria Wophil is also in the race to become the chairperson of the IAAF Women’s Committee.
Worphil, adjudged one of the most successful accounting officers the AFN has ever had is currently a member of the committee. She is also vying for a return as a member if she fails to clinch the ultimate ticket in Beijing.
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July 01, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) –
Delta State Election Petition Tribunal on Tuesday in Asaba, asked the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to collapse its preliminary objections into the substantive trial in the petition filed by the All Progressive Congress (APC) and Labour Party (LP), challenging the results of the governorship election in the state.
In its ruling, Chairman of the three-man tribunal, Justice Nasiru Gunmi said that by virtue of section 285(6) of the 1999 constitution said the tribunal is obligated to conclude the hearing of judgment of the petition within 180 days to the filing of the petition, hence the need to collapse the preliminary objection into the substantive suits.
The judge observed that “it is better for all the issues adjudicated to be looked into, including the issues raised in the objection; any aggrieved party can take issues to the court of Appeal.” He added that “the tribunal has resolved that the various preliminary objections filed by the respondents which appears towards the prevention of this petition on merits are to be hard with the petition”, hence the preliminary objection should be collapsed into the main trial of the substantive suit”.
PDP, through its lead counsel Dr. Alex Izyion (SAN) last week raised a preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of the tribunal to hear the petition. It also prayed the court to conduct a pre-trial hearing to look into fundamental nature of the objection or dismiss the entire petition because the petitioners had not followed due process.
But lead counsel to the APC, Mr. Thomson Okpoko (SAN) argued that the purpose of every tribunal is to do justice and that justice is done when the complaimant is heard on the merit of the complaint, and urged the tribunal to allow the preliminary objections to be taken with the substantive trial.
The petitions were filed by Chief Great Ogboru of Labour Party, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and Mr. Paul Isamade of Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN), challenging the governorship election results in the state.
However, Justice Gunmi adjourned the matter to next Thursday 9th July 2015, for the commencement of trial in the substantive suits.
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The Delta State Government has rolled out six entrepreneurship schemes with an assurance from the State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, that 6,000 direct jobs would be created in the next six months as a result. Deputy Governor of Delta State, Barr Kingsley Otuaro (middle) the chairman Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM, Ogiame Atuwatse 11, the Olu od Warri (left) and the 1st Vice chairman, Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM, Dr Emmanuel Efeizomor 11, Obi of Owa during a meeting of the deputy Governor with Delta traditional rulers in Government House Asaba on Monday.
The schemes are Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (YAGEP), Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP); Production and Processing Support Programme (PPSP); Tractorisation; Extension of Loans; and Development of Agro-industries.
At the unveiling of the programmes before chairman and members of the Traditional Rulers Council in the state, the Governor, who spoke through his deputy, Barrister Kingsley Otuaro, said “these initiatives will create jobs and wealth, diversify the economy, engage youths in productive enterprises, nurture entrepreneurs and leaders, and promote communal peace and security.”
He stressed that the Government “is determined and poised to deliver prosperity to everyone in Delta through our SM.A.R.T agenda, and it is on that note that we are launching these job creation schemes.”
Dr Okowa explained that the meeting with the traditional rulers was to get them acquainted with government’s job creation programmes as key stakeholders and partners with the government. According to the Governor, “we want to take advantage of our revered traditional institution to ensure that beneficiaries are sons and daughters of our communities so that we can maximize the gains of all that we are putting into the programmes.”
The royal palaces, he disclosed, will serve as centres for collection and submission of the forms for interested participants in any of the schemes. Although the forms can also be accessed and downloaded online, he said the recourse to the traditional rulers to assist in the distribution and collation of the forms was to allay any fears of political marginalization as the royal fathers are non-partisan.Emu and his team briefing the Press
Briefing the gathering, the Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee on job creation and Commissioner-Designate, Dr Kingsley Emu, explained that under the YAGEP scheme, participants across the 25 local government areas would be screened and selected by a team of consultants after which they would undergo one month training at Songhai Farms for life skills, attitudinal change, and hands on management. The areas of focus, Emu said, are piggery, poultry, fisheries, and vegetable farming. He revealed that upon completion of the training the participants would proceed on a one-month internship after which they will be given starter packs to start their own farms.
The Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP), he said, was meant to equip youths with vocational and technical skills in computer hardware and phone repairs, sewing, plumbing, tiling, electrical installation, POP, catering and confectionaries, events management, among others. The objective of the PPSP, according to Emu, was to increase production capacity of existing farmers and the quality of produce through best practice.
Beneficiaries will be granted “micro credit through available financing windows, subsidised bulldozers, tractors implements, chemicals, and high quality seeds.” Participants/beneficiaries would also be selected from across the 25 local government areas through direct stakeholder consultation with farmers’ representatives, and other relevant organisations.
Dr. Emu advised artisans to organise themselves into cooperative societies to enable them access the “micro credit and agricultural loans with liberal repayment terms in line with the extant microcredit programme.”
He disclosed that the Committee, in collaboration with Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (MSMEDA) and Ministry of Commerce and Industry, would identify and select beneficiary groups within a few weeks; give necessary orientation to selected groups on microcredit management; and disburse the loans as soon as the process is completed.”
Traditional rulers who spoke at the occasion lauded the state government initiatives in ensuring transparency in the job creation process, assuring that their people will participate actively in the programmes.
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In this concise interview with Delta state Deputy Governor, Barrister Kingsley Otuaro, Blank NEWS Online unveils the determination of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration to give prominence to youth development in agriculture in the oil rich state.Barrister Kingsley Otuaro, Delta state Deputy Governor
Question: Your Excellency sir, the Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (YAGEP) was inaugurated today in Government House with Traditional Rulers as major stakeholders. Why did you decide to include Traditional Rulers in driving this process?
Answer: Thank you very much and welcome. First and foremost, we have promised Deltans that we are determined and poised of delivering prosperity to all of them. This, of course is encapsulated in our SMART agenda and one component act of the SMART programme sticks to the effect that we would create wealth and provide job opportunities for all Deltans, with particular reference to our teeming, unemployed youths and that is the purport of the meeting we just had.
The place of the traditional institution, as a government, cannot be overemphasised. We feel very strongly that we need to partner with our traditional institution to help us drive this process because they are custodians of our land and heritage and culture. They know the unemployed youths in their domain. We don’t want to get it wrong and as such, we consider them as a very necessary part of the programme. So that is the context of the meeting we just had.
Question: It is a good thing you brought in the traditional rulers as key stakeholders in this programme but politicians also know their subjects and wield much influence. What measures have you put in place to ensure that politicians do not hijack this laudable programme?
Answer: We have put some measures in place and one of the major safety valves or measures we have put in place, is to ensure that all of the forms that would be given out to Deltans for this particular programme, passes through the traditional rulers to the consultants who are detailed to ascertain their preparedness for this programme because we don’t want to get unprepared, unenthusiastic youths to be part of this programme. We want to ensure we maximise every one kobo government is putting into this programme. That is one major safety valve and measures to ensuring that we don’t proliferate and mess up the expectant result of the programme.
Question: Your Excellency, we understand this is the first batch of the programme. How soon is the kick-off and when are expecting the second batch?
Answer: Yes. This actually is the first batch and when we are done with the whole process as it were, training them at Songhai Farms, getting them for internship in farm settlements as required and starting them with the starter packs. And the consultants would monitor and give us feed-back as to the successes we have recorded and that will prompt us to embark immediately on the second phase of the programme.
Question: Finally sir, what is your advice to Deltans, especially women and youths about this programme and how you intend to create wealth for them?
Answer: My advice to Deltans with particular reference at this time to the youth population, which of course, is our primary target, is to take this project or programme very seriously because as a government, we are poised, we are determined.
It is not going to be one of those wish washy programmes that at the end would not achieve the set goals or objectives. That is the primary reason why we have brought in the traditional institution to be part of this process.
I want to tell everyone in Delta state, especially the youth population as it were to take it seriously and ensure that they reach out to their traditional rulers and obtain their forms and be part of the screening process and government is very bent on assuring that we would do our very part and that surely is the way to go.
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Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has explained why the 2014/2015 Civil Services recruitment exercises in the state was suspended.
In his maiden address to the State House of Assembly on Thursday, the Governor explained that the exercises “violated established rules and regulations in the Civil Service,” adding that “it was not logical that a State struggling to meet its payroll obligation should employ more persons.”
Dr Okowa recalled that the previous administration “underscored the failure of the recruitment process when it suspended the Chairman and members of the Board of the State Civil Service Commission. In essence, if the process was faulty as they found out, the end result (the recruitment) could not have been otherwise.”
The Governor described the suspension order as “painful and agonising” for him and pleaded with the House Members to “explain to their constituents who were affected by the suspension order to be patient and understand that we do not mean them any harm. We just want to ensure that the right thing is done.”
While sympathizing with those affected, Okowa said “you have my highest assurance that in the long term this decision is for the benefit of everybody”, stressing that “ sometimes , things have to get worse before they can get better.” Governor Okowa had in a reference letter number GHA16 Vol. VI/154 of 1st June, 2015, placed all the employment carried out since January 1, 2014 to May 31, 2015 on hold.
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Delta State Governor Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa has urged the contractors handling the Okpanam drainage project to re-double efforts towards ensuring a speedy completion of the project so as to minimise the effects of erosion and flooding in the state capital, Asaba.
Governor Okowa stated this on Thursday, when he inspected the Okpanam drainage, waterways, and discharge points in the State Capital Territory.
He decried the menace of erosion and flooding in Asaba and environs, explaining that “there was the need to mitigate the effects of flooding in the state capital territory by completion of the drainage project and linking it to the various discharge points and natural waterways.”
The Governor also called for the clearing of already completed drainages as a palliative measure to prevent floods and erosions during the rainy season.
Dr Okowa charged the contractor handling the project to “move faster and connect the various drainage channels, so that whenever the rain falls the overflow and flooding will be reduced.”
Speaking to newsmen, he said: “I know the people are expectant of what the Government will do to make life more bearable after the rains so we are going to stay on course and put a lot of pressure on the contractors through supervisions and inspections.”
The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Works, Engr. Dona Umukoro who led the inspection team assured the Governor that measures to clear the drainage channels and connect them to the discharge points and waterways were on course.
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