Nigeria, August 18, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

 APC Diaspora International Secretariat has been following with keen interest the developments in the National Assembly, notably, we are concerned about the possible ramification on the psyche of our patent Secretariat in Abuja, Nigeria. We have worked too hard to become the majority political party of the nation. Let’s not squander this hard earned privilege, unanimously granted to us by the Nigerian people. Most importantly to bring back our country’s past glory and make Nigeria once more a force to be reckoned with in the international scene. We hereby offer mediation to bring about a peaceful resolution of the discord resulting from the senate leadership struggle. We are prepared to meet with members of the National Assembly. Our team consists of negotiators with expertise in conflict resolution, mediation and lobbying. We hereby assure: party faithful’s, executives, National Assembly, Nigerians, and international communities that our primary goal is to guide the party, and indeed the National Assembly, to a path of a mutual and smooth working relationship, through moving the country speedily forward. Beside, we cannot accept 16 years of insalubrious government, our mantra of change must be real and not just be a mere slogan.

The 8th National Assembly started off on the wrong foot. The leadership struggle at the upper chamber of the National Assembly is slowing down legislative process and hence the federal government, since it is an important arm of the government. How did they get it inside out – upside down – wrong? Can someone publish the National Assembly rules regarding the selection of leaders in the two chambers? We believe some years ago, members of the National Assembly travelled to United State to learn legislative process? What happened to the information they gathered on that mission which undoubtedly was fully financed by our national treasury. Please, people get it together! Do not let this crisis escalate to level that it will lead to national disgrace.

In the United States, the country which Nigeria supposedly patterned its legislative process after, afterward, the elections the majority party will assume control of both chambers of congress. The house will come together to select a speaker but the vote is a formality because the minority party has very little chance of winning the top leadership position and the same thing applies to senate, which is the upper chamber. In the case of the senate, the vice president is automatically the senate president. The senate president is ceremonial position at best, and has no significance in the spectrum of leadership. The senate president will only cast a vote to break a dead log. The senate will select a majority leader which is actually the top position in the senate. They will then select a minority leader from the minority party, whose responsibility is organizing opposition to the majority party’s program and present his party’s alternative views. There is by no a fool-proof system even with hundreds of years in the democracy experiment. But internal discord is inherent in human institutions and it occurs the damage can be mitigated whereas, established rules are adhered to; and if members subordinate their interests in favor party unity as to the will of the people.

We are not advocating that Nigeria’s National Assembly be a carbon copy of the American congress, but Nigeria is on record emulating the American model.

APC International Secretariat calls for calm and reason to prevail. Let the National assembly follow established rules that govern their activities. We do not need any distraction; and certainly do not want to give in to detractors of the Buhari Administration an opportunity to derail its program.

APC Diaspora International Secretariat requests the opportunity for a mediatory session with the National Assembly. Again, we have a team of experienced negotiators with the proven record of success in conflict resolution. Please provide us with the earliest possible date to meet with the APC power brokers to begin the process.  Our experts are derived from all over the world, so we need reasonable to make their travel arrangement. We committed to providing this service because we believe this is the way forward for our great party.

The Senate President, Bukola Sarki, has the opportunity now to showcase his leadership skill. This is a good test of his leadership prowess and we believe senator Sarki will answer the call.

The reformulated APC shouldn’t buy into the hypes surrounding the senate leadership selection process debacle. Senator Sarki must reach out to his fellow APC senators, but first he must accept responsibility for the confusion and assure them he will implement a reform of the selection process, in order to prevent reoccurrence; then collectively they can bring senators from other parties along. The whole nation is watching to see what APC will do with the unprecedented event of unseating an incumbent party and the opportunity to manage the country’s affairs. As a party which was swept into power under the mantra of change, that corruption, insecurity and theft are culpable in the decay of our national wealth, must deliver. We are not immune to what happened to PDP. We have come to a point in our federation history that the people will no longer sit and accept excuses from those we entrusted with the responsibility to lead us. The 2015 election was never a fluke. The voices of the people were heard loud and clear: that the era of apathy is gone and enters the era of self-governance and accountability. 

To buttress our concern, please find herewith two publications, signifying our concerns with respect to this matter.

Once again, accept our unhappiness at this situation, whilst we are optimistic this issue is resolvable and amicably.

*Written by Francis John, International Coordinator, APC USA International Secretariat

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

 Nigeria, August 17, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Trial at the Delta State Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Asaba, may have suffered setbacks due to the inability of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and its gubernatorial candidate, Olorogun Otega Emerhor, to provide details of the witnesses it intends to call.

Chairman of the three-man panel of tribunal, Justice Nasiru Gunmi had slated Monday, August 17, 2015 for commencement of substantive trial in the petition filed by APC and Labour Party challenging the  victory of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa at the polls.

The tribunal had subpoenaed seven witnesses to be called by  APC and Otega counsels to support their claims in the petition at the tribunal.

At the resumed hearing of the matter on Monday, Counsel to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa,  PDP and  INEC, Dr. Alex Iziyion (SAN) and A.T Keyinde (SAN) respectively ,  raised a preliminary objection through  motion -on- notice,    challenging  the locus standi of APC and Otega to call seven witnesses without availing them  the opportunity of knowing the details of the witnesses.

Iziyion argued that, “we were ready to start the trial for this week, in respect of the seven witnesses they listed, suddenly we were confronted with subpoena for four witnesses for Thursday, before then they had applied for leave to call additional witnesses which the tribunal refused, we have raised objection to the four new witnesses they are proposing to call.

“Even the witness statements have not been served on us, so the issue is whether the witness summons was appropriate in the circumstance that is what we have raised for consideration”. 

Izyion expressed readiness to move the motion immediately  seeking details of the witnesses adding that “ we are ready to go on with the substantive trial once the information we are seeking about witness summons are made ready to us, let us open the box and see what is in it”.

It was at this point that Mr. Okpokor (SAN) sought leave of  the tribunal for extension of time to enable him respond to the motions as filed by INEC and PDP counsels.

After listinning to the arguments of all the counsels, Justice Gunmi adjourned to 20 August 2015 for the hearing of the motion from the respondents.    

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

 

Nigeria, August 16, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

Following a recent federal government’s warning about the impending flood that will be witnessed across Nigeria, especially in coastal line states due to the gradual release of excess water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon, Delta and Edo states have respectively issued flood alerts to its residents to be wary of another gloomy experience.

Residents of coastal line in Delta state have been called upon to start making plans on how to relocate to safer places to avoid being enveloped by the impending flood to be occasioned by the gradual release of excess water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon.

Delta state Deputy Governor Barrister Kingsley Burutu Otuaro made the call while reacting to the warning raised by the federal government about the impending flood that will be witnessed across the country especially in coastal line states like Delta.

The Deputy Governor who spoke through his Senior Special Assistant on media, Mrs Doris Warri-Aboh, said relocation was apt to avoid recording high level of casualty when the flood sets in emphasizing that the state was able to evacuate people to internally displaced camps in 2012 because they yielded to the timely warning by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency NIMET.

He said Delta State Government was not ready to lose a single soul to the flood hence the need for people to be at alert especially residents of areas affected by the flood of 2012.

The deputy Governor expressed worry with the way some people erected structures on waterways and canals thereby blocking the water from flowing into its route pointing out that the outburst of flood may have severe consequences.

Barrister Otuaro advised owners of public and private buildings to embark on clearing of their surroundings and gutters as a deliberate effort to promote good health.

The deputy governor equally called on traditional rulers and opinion leaders to assist government in enlightening their people about the forthcoming flood and the need to keep their environment clean to avoid outbreak of diseases like malaria and cholera.

He said government was committed to the fight against environmental degradation and anything capable of exposing the state to environmental hazard.

The deputy Governor urged Deltans to work as a team in combating this year’s flood to avoid casualty in evacuation of people to camps for refuge.

In the same vein, Edo State Government has advised residents living in low lands, river banks and other flood-prone areas in the state to take proactive action and relocate to safer parts of the state to avoid being affected by flood which may arise following the opening of a dam in the Republic of Cameroon.

The Government in a statement signed by Austin Akhuamhenkhun, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Public Utilities on behalf of the Commissioner, said “the Federal Ministry of Environment has alerted on the opening of a dam in the Republic of Cameroon which may lead to flooding in parts of the country. This is in addition to the current heavy rainfall being recorded in the year.

“To this end, Edo State Government through the Ministry of Environment and Public Utilities has put in place an action plan to ensure a flood-free 2015 through elaborate and extensive de-siltation exercise of major towns in addition to the on-going Benin City Storm Water master plan.

“The good people of Edo State are therefore advised to collectively take the following precautions to forestall an incident of flooding and its consequence in the State.

“The people are advised to desist from indiscriminate waste dumping habits that end us blocking the drains which can result in the breeding of mosquitoes, flies and other disease carriers that may eventually result in a high prevalence of malaria, yellow fever, Lassa fever and cholera. Always use the provided waste bins.

“Ensure to de-silt the drains in front of our houses and cart away same.

“People living in low lands, river banks and other flood-prone areas such as Ilushi, Agenebode, Udaba and others are advised to re-locate to higher grounds.

“Because of the expected rainfall pattern in 2015, residents are advised to take a second look at the binding of their roofs to ensure that they are firm.

“The Government also calls on Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) to immediately take another look at all their distribution facilities within the state to ensure that they are firm and strong enough to withstand any stormy weather in order to avoid electrocution-related but avoidable deaths.”

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

Nigeria, August 04, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

CHAIRMAN of Delta State Council of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Chief Ifeanyi Obi has advised members of the union to desist from actions capable of causing breach of the peace.

Chief Obi who was reacting to recent crisis involving some members of the union at Uvwie local government area of the state said it was sad that some security operatives got involved in internal activities of the union which led to the crisis.

He emphasized, “we were surprised when we heard that some people tried to cause trouble in Uvwie using some security men, the situation is now normal and our members are working peacefully, we know the essence of having a peaceful state and we cannot be involved in any action which can lead to a breach of peace.”

“Every member of NURTW understands our constitution and we want to use this medium to thank Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, our Governor for his maturity in handling the affairs of Delta State, we support him and we cannot be involved in anything that is against the law,” he said.

Chief Obi stated that NURTW will continue to support Governor Okowa and commended the Governor for appointing Hon. Vincent Uduaghan as the Commissioner in charge of the Ministry of Transport.

According to him, “we are a peaceful people, anybody who does not obey our constitution will be disciplined in line with constitutional provisions, we are happy with our Governor, Dr Okowa because he understands the way we work and he will work for Deltans, we are happy that he has also appointed a trusted person as the Commissioner for Transport.

“In less than a month of his becoming the Governor, Dr Okowa tackled the erosion menace that almost cut the Ughelli/Asaba road near Ogwashi-Uku, our members and passengers would have suffered if he did not only check the erosion but, reconstructed the road to make it better,” Chief Obi said.

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

Libreville, August 04, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) –  From Sunday Ikuesan, Gabon Correspondent

A Nigerian diplomat attached to the Embassy of Nigeria in Gabon is dead. The Delta State born James Oguntoye ALA was until his death the accountant of Nigerian Embassy in Gabon. He died on Tuesday 28th of July after a brief illness. His death was a great shock to his colleagues and other staff of the embassy and Nigerian residents in Gabon because nobody noticed any health challenge on him. According to one of the embassy’s staff who spoke in anonymous to our reporters “Mr James Oguntoye ALA was in office on Monday 27th of July and he looked very healthy until the close hour”. He has no signs of illness.

It was authentically gathered that his illness began at about 4 o’clock in the morning of Tuesday, and his wife immediately called on one private clinic in Libreville, ‘Clinique Medex’ for medical assistance. One of the clinic personnel who affirm to our reporter said: “Mrs ALA called us at 4 a.m. to announce the health complication of her husband, we responded immediately and took him to our clinic for observation but we realized that his blood pressure was too high, and his breathing was also abnormal so we rushed him to El-Rapha hospital for intensive treatment but unfortunately he died at 5 a.m.” Mr James Oguntoye ALA is said to have died of heart failure.

The death of Mr James Oguntoye ALA left the Nigerian diplomatic community in Gabon in a pathetic situation. Everybody was confused, and no one can really say anything concerning the incidence. The sad feeling was shared among all. The Ambassador of Nigeria in Gabon, Ambassador Bassey ARCHIBONG who was on his way to U.S. for his annual leave has to make a U-turn back to Gabon when the news was broken to him, it gathered. He told our reporters that he was already in South Africa on the day of the incidence.

Condolence register is already opened and being signed by friends and loved ones pending the repatriation of the remains of Mr James Oguntoye ALA. The ambassador affirms “every necessary arrangement is on ground to send the body home”. His wife is also being assisted by the embassy staff daily.

*Sunday Ikuesan is Blank NEWS Online Gabon correspondent.

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

Nigeria, August 03, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

A three-man panel of the Delta State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, chaired by Justice Nasiru Gunmi, at its resumed sitting on Monday, August 03, 2015, in Asaba, threw out another set of five motions brought by All Progressive Congress (APC) and its governorship candidate, Olorungun O’tega Emerhor.

Emerhor and the APC had sought the leave of the tribunal for enlargement of time to include additional information to their petition.

The motion also sought the tribunal’s permission to compel PDP and INEC by way of response, to furnish the tribunal with more facts about the petition.

Dr. Aliex Iziyon (SAN) counsel to Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the Delta State governor, vehemently opposed the application after adopting his written address ,and submitted that section 45(1) of the electoral act is not a magic umbrella, adding that the electoral act forbids the tribunal the powers to grant the application. He further argued that rules advanced by the petitioner are not tenable.

Counsels to PDP and INEC, A.T Kehinde and Damian D. Dodo (SAN) respectively, also opposed the application, relying on section 285(1) of the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria and section 134 of the Electorial Act. They informed the tribunal that the combined effect of the two sections curtail the powers of the tribunal to grant the extension of time.

Chairmen of the Tribunal Justice Nasiru Gunmi, in his ruling on the motion said the application lacked merits because it violated section 17(1)(2) of the Electoral Act , as Emerhor and APC failed to keep within the time limit of ten days within which to file their motion.

Justice Gunmi averred that “If a party in an election petition, wishes to have further particulars or other directions about the tribunal, such party may do so at any time but not more than ten days after the filing of the reply from the respondents”, adding “that if the party does not apply as provided for in the electoral act, it is taken that they do not require any further particulars or direction” , and the prayers shall be be granted.

He further postulated that “The applicants application is in breach of section 17(1) of the first schedule of the electoral act , which requires the applicant to file their application within ten days, as time allowed has expired, and the question now is whether this tribunal can extend time. In a situation like this, the tribunal is bound to exercise it powers as contained in section 17 (1) of the electoral act. Equally section 17(2) prohibits this tribunal from extending time, it restricts the tribunal from exercising such power for time extension”.

He ruled that “If the tribunal lacks powers to grant a particular relief, it is duty abound to refuse such application , in the end we agree with the submission of the respondents counsel (PDP, INEC), in the end we refuse this application and it accordingly dismissed”.

Counsel to Emerjor, Thompson Okpoko earlier argued that, section 17(1) (2), of the electoral act permits what his clent was asking. He argued that if a party to an election petition wishing to have better and further particulars. He can apply to the tribunal, adding that by reason of that provision that has prompted them to file the motion for time enlargement the application was brought because they were unable to meet the stipulated time as contained in the electoral act.

In a similar motion brought by APC and Otega, through its counsel, Mr. Okpoko, the petitioners sought the leave of the tribunal to call for seven additional withness on oath in their petition .

The respondents counsels lead by Dr. Alex Iziyon equally opposed the application, saying the petitioners failed to carry out the mandatory front loading in their previous petitions and motions and urged the court to also dismiss the application.

Justice Gunmi has reservedAugust 5, 2015 for ruling on the matter, whether to allow the APC and O’tega to call for seven additional witness in the petition.

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

Nigeria, August 02, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – -By Albert OGRAKA

After 96 cases and six fatalities were established in a sudden outbreak of a disease, touted to be cholera in Aladja community, Udu local government area of the Delta state, the state government has yet to unravel the mystery surrounding the outbreak.

Meanwhile, Delta state government has quickly debunked claims of cholera outbreak in Aladja, a community in Udu local government area of the state.

If a statement credited to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Sunday Otobo in Asaba, saying there was no confirmed outbreak of cholera in Delta State, but that there were incidents of stooling and vomiting recorded in Aladja, Udu Local Government Area of the state, is anything to go by, then the state government has failed to rise up to the occasion.

Although he claimed that various samples have been taken to Lagos for testing , he insisted that “none has been confirmed to be suffering from cholera” while the results of the test are yet to be received from Lagos after analysis.

For Dr. W. Henry, a medical officer in Udu local government, who has been attending to patients admitted in the Primary Health Centre, “having conducted several tests and analysis, there was no confirmed case of cholera but an explosive case of gastroenteritis.”

He revealed that so far 96 cases and six fatalities have been established in the area since the outbreak of the disease.

However, the state Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa’s directive to Health officers in the 25 local government areas of the state to be proactive in detecting and tackling any outbreak of diseases in all communities is a welcome development that would help stave-off disease spread and casualties.

While community leaders in Aladja have expressed sadness over the disease outbreak, they had also appealed to the state government to reactivate the long abandoned community water scheme to provide potable drinking water.

Before the outbreak of the disease, Aladja community’s source of drinking water has been the river, dug-in-well and satchet water but the Chairman of Udu local government council, Chief Solomon Kpomah has initiated measures to ensure that henceforth all satchet and well water are examined by the NAFDAC officials in the local government area.

Last Word:
Governments at all levels possesses near total responsibilities in providing cheap potable drinking water for the citizenry, even when the reverse has been the case with past administrations, the present adminstration should make its relevant ministries, departments and agencies become proactive instead of waiting for outbreaks and fatalities before taking actions.

Cholera:
Cholera is an infectious disease that causes severe watery diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and even death if untreated. It is caused by eating food or drinking water contaminated with a bacterium called Vibrio cholerae.

Cholera was prevalent in the U.S. in the 1800s, before modern water and sewage treatment systems eliminated its spread by contaminated water. Only about 10 cases of cholera are reported each year in the U.S. and half of these are acquired abroad. Rarely, contaminated seafood has caused cholera outbreaks in the U.S. However, cholera outbreaks are still a serious problem in other parts of the world. At least 150,000 cases are reported to the World Health Organization each year.

The disease is most common in places with poor sanitation, crowding, war, and famine. Common locations include parts of Africa, south Asia, and Latin America. If you are traveling to one of those areas, knowing the following cholera facts can help protect you and your family.

Cholera Causes:
Vibrio cholerae, the bacterium that causes cholera, is usually found in food or water contaminated by feces from a person with the infection.

Common sources include:
Municipal water supplies
Ice made from municipal water
Foods and drinks sold by street vendors
Vegetables grown with water containing human wastes
Raw or undercooked fish and seafood caught in waters polluted with sewage

When a person consumes the contaminated food or water, the bacteria release a toxin in the intestines that produces severe diarrhea. It is not likely you will catch cholera just from casual contact with an infected person.

Cholera Symptoms
Symptoms of cholera can begin as soon as a few hours or as long as five days after infection. Often, symptoms are mild. But sometimes they are very serious. About one in 20 people infected have severe watery diarrhea accompanied by vomiting, which can quickly lead to dehydration. Although many infected people may have minimal or no symptoms, they can still contribute to spread of the infection.

Signs and symptoms of dehydration include:
Rapid heart rate
Loss of skin elasticity (the ability to return to original position quickly if pinched)
Dry mucous membranes, including the inside of the mouth, throat, nose, and eyelids
Low blood pressure
Thirst
Muscle cramps
If not treated, dehydration can lead to shock and death in a matter of hours.

Gastroenteritis:
Gastroenteritis or infectious diarrhea is a medical condition from inflammation (“-itis”) of the gastrointestinal tract that involves both the stomach (“gastro”-) and the small intestine (“entero”-). It causes some combination of diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain and cramping.[1] Dehydration may occur as a result. Gastroenteritis has been referred to as gastro, stomach bug, and stomach virus. Although unrelated to influenza, it has also been called stomach flu and gastric flu.

Globally, most cases in children are caused by rotavirus.[2] In adults, norovirus[3] and Campylobacter[4] are more common. Less common causes include other bacteria (or their toxins) and parasites. Transmission may occur due to consumption of improperly prepared foods or contaminated water or via close contact with individuals who are infectious. Prevention includes drinking clean water, hand washing with soap, and breast feeding babies instead of using formula. This applies particularly where sanitation and hygiene are lacking. The rotavirus vaccine is recommended for all children.

The key treatment is enough fluids. For mild or moderate cases, this can typically be achieved via oral rehydration solution (a combination of water, salts, and sugar). In those who are breast fed, continued breast feeding is recommended. For more severe cases, intravenous fluids from a healthcare centre may be needed. Antibiotics are generally not recommended. Gastroenteritis primarily affects children and those in the developing world. It results in about three to five billion cases and causes 1.4 million deaths a year.

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

Nigeria, July 31, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

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

Nigeria, July 30, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

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

 Nigeria, July 29, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

DELTA State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has warned against rumour mongering as the nation experiences another phase of democratic government.

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

Nigeria, July 26, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

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

Nigeria, July 26, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

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.

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

Nigeria, July 23, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

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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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

Nigeria, July 21, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

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.

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.”

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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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

Nigeria, July 13, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

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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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

Nigeria, July 13, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

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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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

Nigeria, July 13, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

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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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

 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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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

Nigeria, July 10, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

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

Nigeria, July 07, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

“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:

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.

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

Nigeria, July 04, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) Compiled by Albert Ograka– 

Commissioners & Portfolios:

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)

Mr. Joseph Ogeh (Housing)

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)

Mr. Chiedu Ebie (Basic and Secondary Education).

Special Advisers & Portfolios:

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)

Comrade Mike Okeme (Labour Relations).

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E.I.C: Albert Eruorhe Ograka

July 04, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) – 

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.

“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.”

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’’.

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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