Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has announced former Director General of the Direct Labour Agency (DLA), Hon. Festus Agas as the Secretary to the Delta State Government.Ovie Festus Agas, Delta SSG
The Governor made the disclosure today, Sunday, May 31, 2015 at a reception organised in his honour after a thanksgiving service held at St. Philip’s Anglican Church, Asaba.
According to him, the appointment of Hon. Agas takes immediate effect signalling the commencement of political appointees for his administration.
Hon. Agas apart from being a former Chairman of the DLA, was also, a Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly. He was the Director General of the Okowa Campaign Organization.Ovie Agas, (2nd Right) shortly after his position was announced.
Senator Okowa at the reception, thanked Deltans for believing and trusting him and his Deputy, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro assuring, “in all that we do, we will look at the common good of all.”
While stating that Delta State would make a difference amongst the states of the country, the Governor said, “we need your prayers, we need your support, continue to support us as we go forward because without your support, we will be able to do nothing.”
“We are committed to serve the people with respect and bring prosperity to all Deltans,” he said.
Prominent Deltans attended the reception ceremony which was spiced by comedians and musicians from the state.
Speaking exclusively to newsmen shortly after the announcement, Governor Okowa said that there had never been any doubts in his mind whatsoever over the appointment of Hon Ovie Agas as the SSG, but he had decided to wait for the auspicious moment provided by the Thanksgiving Service reception to test the popularity and acceptance of his decision to the large gathering of Deltans, in order to be sure he had done the right thing.
Governor Okowa, who noted that the position of the Secretary to the State Government was a critical office that required the appointment of a seasoned and level headed personality, described Hon. Agas as a dedicated and committed Deltan who will bring his vast wealth of political experience and sound administrative acumen to bear on the new job, adding that he was quite satisfied with the response of Deltans to the appointment.
“You can see that the appointment was well received by Deltans which means that we have done the right thing with his appointment”, Okowa said.
Okowa promised that more appointments would be announced very soon with a reflection of the principles of equity, fairness and justice.
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DELTA State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has assured Deltans of an equitable accountable and transparent governance.Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, Governor of Delta State during the Thanksgiving SServic to make his Assumption of Office
Speaking at a thanksgiving service organized in his honour at St. Philip’s Anglican Church, Asaba today, Sunday May 31, 2015, Senator Okowa stated that his administration will be just and objective in dealing with the activities of the state.
According to him, “I promise Deltans that I will be accountable, just and equitable to all sections of the state,” adding, “I am here to serve the people of Delta State because the oath I swore to was that I will serve all Deltans.”
“I know that the beginning will be rough but, I know that God is with us, it is important that you pray for us because with your prayers we will succeed,” the Governor said, noting, “I have every reason to thank God because The Lord has been good to me, my family and Delta State for we are a chosen generation.”Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa Governor of Delta State (middle), Dame (Mrs.) Edith Okowa wife of the Governor (2nd right), Bishop Emmanuel Chukwuma (right), Most. Revd. Nicholas Okoh (2nd left)
At the service, Governor Okowa charged Deltans not to stand up for him while in the church.
“Henceforth, when we are in the church, no man should up for me throughout my tenure, if you want to talk to me, don’t kneel down to talk to me, I don’t want the grace upon my life to be taken away,” the Governor said.
The Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Most Revd. Nicholas Okoh had in a sermon, urged Governor Okowa to pray for the spirit to discern between good and evil.
He advised the Governor to unite all Deltans adding, “let the love of God rule our hearts so that Deltans will live together in love and the state will move forward, unity is important for the success and development of a multi ethnic state like Delta.”
Most Revd. Okoh stated that Governor Okowa deserves to give thanks to God for all that He has done in his life.
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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state has singled out the immediate past Governor of the State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan’s dedication of the State to God throughout his tenure as his greatest achievement.THANKSGIVING: from left: The immediate past governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, his wife, Deaconess Roli Uduaghan, wife of the Delta State Governor, Dame Edith Okowa and his husband, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State during a special thanksgiving service marking the successful 8years of the immediate past governor of the state held at the First Baptist Church, Warri
Governor Okowa, at a family thanksgiving by Dr. Uduaghan for successfully governing the State for eight years at the First Baptist Church, Warri, weekend said that Dr. Uduaghan’s regular thanksgiving on behalf of the State Government and the changing of the State’s slogan the “Big Heart” to the “Finger of God” had become precedents which subsequent administrations would emulate.
Governor Okowa also paid tribute to the immediate past first Lady of the State, Deaconess Roli Uduaghan for taking the Gospel of Christ round the twenty five Local Government areas of the State.
He declared May 29 of every year as a day of praise unto God.
While appealing for prayers for his administration and correction where he may go wrong, Governor Okowa assured Dr. Uduaghan that he would always consult him in taking certain decisions affecting the State.
The Immediate past Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan in his remarks, said only history would judge what he achieved and he failed to achieve when he was governor for eight years.
Dr. Uduaghan flanked by his wife, Roli, paid tribute to all who contributed to the success of his political career including his political associates, the clergy and traditional rulers, saying having served Delta State for sixteen years as a Commissioner, Secretary to State government, he cherished the support of all.
He expressed satisfaction that the thanksgiving was well attended even after he had left office adding that the gesture was an indication of appreciation of his modest contribution to development in the state.
While counseled Deltans against rumour mongering, Dr. Uduaghan appealed to Deltans to be patient and tolerant of the Okowa administration stressing that cooperation would enable Governor Ifeanyi Okowa build on the achievements of the state.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Reverend Ishola Ademola in a sermon on “A celebration of the Lord’s goodness’’ said Dr. Uduaghan’s achievements stood him out as elder statesman.
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I am immensely grateful to God Who Has preserved us to witness this day and this occasion. Today marks a triumph for Nigeria and an occasion to celebrate her freedom and cherish her democracy. Nigerians have shown their commitment to democracy and are determined to entrench its culture. Our journey has not been easy but thanks to the determination of our people and strong support from friends abroad we have today a truly democratically elected government in place.Muhammadu Buhari, President Federal Republic of NIGERIA
I would like to thank President Goodluck Jonathan for his display of statesmanship in setting a precedent for us that has now made our people proud to be Nigerians wherever they are. With the support and cooperation he has given to the transition process, he has made it possible for us to show the world that despite the perceived tension in the land we can be a united people capable of doing what is right for our nation. Together we co-operated to surprise the world that had come to expect only the worst from Nigeria. I hope this act of graciously accepting defeat by the outgoing President will become the standard of political conduct in the country.
I would like to thank the millions of our supporters who believed in us even when the cause seemed hopeless. I salute their resolve in waiting long hours in rain and hot sunshine to register and cast their votes and stay all night if necessary to protect and ensure their votes count and were counted. I thank those who tirelessly carried the campaign on the social media. At the same time, I thank our other countrymen and women who did not vote for us but contributed to make our democratic culture truly competitive, strong and definitive.
I thank all of you.
Having just a few minutes ago sworn on the Holy Book, I intend to keep my oath and serve as President to all Nigerians.
I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody.
A few people have privately voiced fears that on coming back to office I shall go after them. These fears are groundless. There will be no paying off old scores. The past is prologue.
Our neighbours in the Sub-region and our African brethenen should rest assured that Nigeria under our administration will be ready to play any leadership role that Africa expects of it. Here I would like to thank the governments and people of Cameroon, Chad and Niger for committing their armed forces to fight Boko Haram in Nigeria.
I also wish to assure the wider international community of our readiness to cooperate and help to combat threats of cross-border terrorism, sea piracy, refugees and boat people, financial crime, cyber crime, climate change, the spread of communicable diseases and other challenges of the 21st century.
At home we face enormous challenges. Insecurity, pervasive corruption, the hitherto unending and seemingly impossible fuel and power shortages are the immediate concerns. We are going to tackle them head on. Nigerians will not regret that they have entrusted national responsibility to us. We must not succumb to hopelessness and defeatism. We can fix our problems.
In recent times Nigerian leaders appear to have misread our mission. Our founding fathers, Mr Herbert Macaulay, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Malam Aminu Kano, Chief J.S. Tarka, Mr Eyo Ita, Chief Denis Osadeby, Chief Ladoke Akintola and their colleagues worked to establish certain standards of governance. They might have differed in their methods or tactics or details, but they were united in establishing a viable and progressive country. Some of their successors behaved like spoilt children breaking everything and bringing disorder to the house.
Furthermore, we as Nigerians must remind ourselves that we are heirs to great civilizations: Shehu Othman Dan fodio’s caliphate, the Kanem Borno Empire, the Oyo Empire, the Benin Empire and King Jaja’s formidable domain. The blood of those great ancestors flow in our veins. What is now required is to build on these legacies, to modernize and uplift Nigeria.
Daunting as the task may be it is by no means insurmountable. There is now a national consensus that our chosen route to national development is democracy. To achieve our objectives we must consciously work the democratic system. The Federal Executive under my watch will not seek to encroach on the duties and functions of the Legislative and Judicial arms of government. The law enforcing authorities will be charged to operate within the Constitution. We shall rebuild and reform the public service to become more effective and more serviceable. We shall charge them to apply themselves with integrity to stabilize the system.
For their part the legislative arm must keep to their brief of making laws, carrying out over-sight functions and doing so expeditiously. The judicial system needs reform to cleanse itself from its immediate past. The country now expects the judiciary to act with dispatch on all cases especially on corruption, serious financial crimes or abuse of office. It is only when the three arms act constitutionally that government will be enabled to serve the country optimally and avoid the confusion all too often bedeviling governance today.
Elsewhere, relations between Abuja and the States have to be clarified if we are to serve the country better. Constitutionally there are limits to powers of each of the three tiers of government but that should not mean the Federal Government should fold its arms and close its eyes to what is going on in the states and local governments. Not least the operations of the Local Government Joint Account. While the Federal Government can not interfere in the details of its operations it will ensure that the gross corruption at the local level is checked. As far as the constitution allows me I will try to ensure that there is responsible and accountable governance at all levels of government in the country. For I will not have kept my own trust with the Nigerian people if I allow others abuse theirs under my watch.
However, no matter how well organized the governments of the federation are they can not succeed without the support, understanding and cooperation of labour unions, organized private sector, the press and civil society organizations. I appeal to employers and workers alike to unite in raising productivity so that everybody will have the opportunity to share in increased prosperity. The Nigerian press is the most vibrant in Africa. My appeal to the media today – and this includes the social media – is to exercise its considerable powers with responsibility and patriotism.
My appeal for unity is predicated on the seriousness of the legacy we are getting into. With depleted foreign reserves, falling oil prices, leakages and debts the Nigerian economy is in deep trouble and will require careful management to bring it round and to tackle the immediate challenges confronting us, namely; Boko Haram, the Niger Delta situation, the power shortages and unemployment especially among young people. For the longer term we have to improve the standards of our education. We have to look at the whole field of medicare. We have to upgrade our dilapidated physical infrastructure.
The most immediate is Boko Haram’s insurgency. Progress has been made in recent weeks by our security forces but victory can not be achieved by basing the Command and Control Centre in Abuja. The command centre will be relocated to Maiduguri and remain until Boko Haram is completely subdued. But we can not claim to have defeated Boko Haram without rescuing the Chibok girls and all other innocent persons held hostage by insurgents.
This government will do all it can to rescue them alive. Boko Haram is a typical example of small fires causing large fires. An eccentric and unorthodox preacher with a tiny following was given posthumous fame and following by his extra judicial murder at the hands of the police. Since then through official bungling, negligence, complacency or collusion Boko Haram became a terrifying force taking tens of thousands of lives and capturing several towns and villages covering swathes of Nigerian sovereign territory.
Boko Haram is a mindless, godless group who are as far away from Islam as one can think of. At the end of the hostilities when the group is subdued the Government intends to commission a sociological study to determine its origins, remote and immediate causes of the movement, its sponsors, the international connexions to ensure that measures are taken to prevent a reccurrence of this evil. For now the Armed Forces will be fully charged with prosecuting the fight against Boko haram. We shall overhaul the rules of engagement to avoid human rights violations in operations. We shall improve operational and legal mechanisms so that disciplinary steps are taken against proven human right violations by the Armed Forces.
Boko Haram is not only the security issue bedeviling our country. The spate of kidnappings, armed robberies, herdsmen/farmers clashes, cattle rustlings all help to add to the general air of insecurity in our land. We are going to erect and maintain an efficient, disciplined people – friendly and well – compensated security forces within an over – all security architecture.
The amnesty programme in the Niger Delta is due to end in December, but the Government intends to invest heavily in the projects, and programmes currently in place. I call on the leadership and people in these areas to cooperate with the State and Federal Government in the rehabilitation programmes which will be streamlined and made more effective. As ever, I am ready to listen to grievances of my fellow Nigerians. I extend my hand of fellowship to them so that we can bring peace and build prosperity for our people.
No single cause can be identified to explain Nigerian’s poor economic performance over the years than the power situation. It is a national shame that an economy of 180 million generates only 4,000MW, and distributes even less. Continuous tinkering with the structures of power supply and distribution and close on $20b expanded since 1999 have only brought darkness, frustration, misery, and resignation among Nigerians. We will not allow this to go on. Careful studies are under way during this transition to identify the quickest, safest and most cost-effective way to bring light and relief to Nigerians.
Unemployment, notably youth un-employment features strongly in our Party’s Manifesto. We intend to attack the problem frontally through revival of agriculture, solid minerals mining as well as credits to small and medium size businesses to kick – start these enterprises. We shall quickly examine the best way to revive major industries and accelerate the revival and development of our railways, roads and general infrastructure.
Your Excellencies, My fellow Nigerians I can not recall when Nigeria enjoyed so much goodwill abroad as now. The messages I received from East and West, from powerful and small countries are indicative of international expectations on us. At home the newly elected government is basking in a reservoir of goodwill and high expectations. Nigeria therefore has a window of opportunity to fulfill our long – standing potential of pulling ourselves together and realizing our mission as a great nation.
Our situation somehow reminds one of a passage in Shakespeare’s Julius Ceasar
There is a tide in the affairs of men which,
taken at the flood, leads on to fortune;
Omitted, all the voyage of their life,
Is bound in shallows and miseries.
We have an opportunity. Let us take it.
Thank you
*Muhammadu Buhari, President Federal Republic of NIGERIA and Commander in-chief-of the Armed forces.
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The Immediate past of Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan will tomorrow (Saturday May 30) hold a special family Thanksgiving in Warri. Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, CON
The family thanksgiving which takes place at the First Baptist Church, Warri starting 1pm will enable the family thank God for His mercy, favour and grace upon them in the past eight years
A statement by a media aide to the former Governor, Mr. Sunny Ogefere asked friends and well wishers to join in thanking God for seeing Dr. Uduaghan through in the eight years he served as Governor of the State.
The statement added that Dr. Uduaghan appreciated the immense support of the people of Delta State throughout his tenure.
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SENATOR (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa and Barr. Kingsley Otuaro have taken oaths of office as Delta State Governor and Deputy Governor respectively.INAUGURATION: Senator Ifeanyi Okowa (left) subscribing to the relevant Oaths as Governor of Delta State presided over by the Chief Judge of Delta State, Hon. Justice Marshal Umukoro (right) during the inauguration ceremony in Asaba on Friday, May 29, 2015
The Chief Judge of Delta State, Justice Marshal Umukoro administered the oaths of office today, May 29, 2015 at the occasion which witnessed a mammoth attendance of Deltans of all works of life including the immediate past Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, his Deputy, Prof. Amos Utuama (SAN) and their spouses.
Governor Okowa shortly after taking the oath of office, inspected a guard of honour mounted by the Nigerian Police after which he took salute during a parade to mark the ceremony.
He assured Deltans of an all inclusive government where there will be no discrimination, and there will be equity, justice and fairness.
The Governor who credited his emergence to the collective commitment of Deltans, and the will of God, stated, “we regard the entire state as our constituency and we will work for the common good of all Deltans.”
“We will create opportunity for our people to participate in the act of governance, I promise to govern our people with respect and fear of God, greed must give way and sacrifice must take its place,” Dr Okowa said, asserting, “we will enthrone a legacy of wealth and prosperity for our people based on our five point agenda.”
The Governor who said the five point agenda has the acronym S.M.A.R.T includes, Strategic wealth creation initiatives and provision of Jobs for all; Meaningful peace building platforms aimed at political/social stability; Agricultural reforms and industrialization; relevant health and education policies; Transformed environment through massive urban renewal.
While calling for the support and cooperation of all Deltans, the Governor disclosed that bills to restructure the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Asaba Capital City Development Board, Technical Education and Delta State Contributory Health Bills to the Delta State State House of Assembly immediately it is constituted.
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Out-going Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has said the disappearance of the Accountant-General of Delta State, Mr Cyril Agbele, six days to hand over to the new administration was in bad faith.
The Governor who stated thisThursday in Asaba expressed surprise that after a fruitful discussion on arrangements for the inauguration of the new administration including security and entertainment, the Accountant-General made himself incommunicado.
According to him, “the Accountant General has disappeared in the last five – six days. The truth is that on Thursday we met and I told him we have some payments to make in the areas of the swearing-in ceremony coming up tomorrow (today), he did not object, he did not say no and on Sunday, I was calling him but he was not picking my calls.”
“And of course on Monday his phones have been put off and on Tuesday, he sent in a paper that he was sick. By Wednesday, he sent in a memo and I find this act very inconsistent and irresponsible,” he stated.
“If there is something that I am doing that is not right, he should be free to tell me it is not right rather than disappearing … just imagine running the affairs of the state for a week without funds, even security men has started withdrawing from their posts across the state.”
“You know the security implication of this, particularly when peace and security is a key agenda of my administration and I cannot compromise on it. It is a conspiracy to grind my administration to a halt and an attempt to set me up on a collision course with the incoming administration. I think is very irresponsible.”
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“The pain I went through in the hands of the officers was unimaginable. In my whole life, I have never been subjected to such inhuman treatment… I sincerely hope the authorities will listen to the voice of Amnesty International. I want Amnesty International to help save my life.”
These were the touching words of 24 year old Moses Akatugba. He was 16 when he was arrested under suspicion of armed robbery in November 2005., and 24 when he was sentenced to death by hanging and allegedly convicted based on ‘confessions’ obtained through torture.
Respite has however come to embattled Akatugba when the out-going Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of oil wealthy Delta state, during a valedictory state executive council meeting held at the new Government House, Asaba on Thursday, May 28, 2015 said the decision to grant full pardon to Akatugba came on the heels of global concerns.
Uduaghan granted pardon to Mr. Moses Akatugba and three others facing death penalty in the state.
Governor Uduaghan also disclosed the pardon was granted based on a report from the State Prerogative of Mercy Council and reviewed by the State Attorney–General.
“I have granted pardon to Mr Moses Akatugba, I have signed his warrant of release, he was the young man who was sentenced to death when he was 16 years old and his case has been trending on the social media and Amnesty International has also intervened”, DR. Uduaghan said adding “I have also commuted the death sentence of three others to various prison terms”.
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A MULTI-million dollar Delta State micro, small and medium entrepreneurship centre has been commissioned by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan.Delta State Entrepreneurship Centre, Issele-Uku
Uduaghan who commissioned the center at Issele-Uku, Aniocha North local government area of Delta State on Monday, May 25, 2015 in the presence of officials of United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO); officials of the Federal Institute of Industrial Research (FIIRO), traditional rulers, top politicians, among others described the project was designed to help achieve the Delta Beyond Oil initiative of his administration.
“Our micro credit scheme which we started in 2007 has started to yield fruits,” he said, adding, “our intention with Delta Beyond Oil initiative is to have a lot of industries that will keep the people positively engaged.”, reiterating “we believe that with our micro credit programme, we can build industries.”
Uduaghan commended the youths of Issele-Uku for not disrupting the project saying projects executed by his administration were well intentioned in the interest of the people.
“I pray that other youths in the state emulate the youths of this community for government projects to go on smoothly, we know that most times, the youths benefit more from the projects.”
While commending UNIDO for a progressive partnership, Uduaghan noted that UNIDO will concentrate on leather works and shoe making while FIIRO will handle food products.
Earlier, the representative of UNIDO, Mr Jessy Ojobo said Dr Uduaghan kept to his promise and the UNIDO was happy to partner the Delta State government in developing the center.
The Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Executive Secretary, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Dr Anthonia Ashiedu in an address, stated that the center would be training more than ten thousand persons annually who will be assisted to set up their businesses and also train other Deltans.
“This is a wealth creating center,” Dr Ashiedu said and lauded Governor Uduaghan’s commitment to empower Deltans through the Delta Beyond Oil initiative.
The Regent of Issele-Uku, Prince Dominic Egbune in a welcome address said, “this training and entrepreneurship centre indeed, is an indelible edifice Your Excellency, Dr Uduaghan has established that can never be forgotten, we will remain very grateful for this wonderful gesture that will also boost the economic activities and the aesthetic nature of Issele-Uku.”
In a similar development, Governor, Uduaghan commissioned bridge and road projects in Eku and in Warri, where he urged Deltans to protect government property in their communities.
Among the projects commissioned include a 160 meter bridge valued at N1.8 billion in Eku, Ethiope East Local Government Area, 2.5 kilometer dualised Okumagba-Deco road, the Messiah African Church road, and Ajamimoghan/Mabiaku link road bridge all in Warri South local government area of the state.
At the commissioning of Okumagba-Deco road project, Dr Uduaghan stated that it was important for communities to protect government property in their communities because they were meant for the people’s benefit.
“This road is very vital and strategic, it has now dualised and we can enjoy it, please, let us take care of government property in our areas, we should not damage them, we should not allow other people to damage them,” he said.
He specifically warned against dumping of building materials, especially sand on the walkways disclosing that such action blocks drainages which leads to flooding.
At Eku, Governor Uduaghan observed that the 100 metre long bridge will facilitate movement of goods and services from Jesse, Oghara, Eku villages and shortened the distance to Edo State.
The Commissioner for Works, Hon. Funkekeme Solomon thanked Governor Uduaghan for approving the construction of projects that would make life easier for the people.
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The Nigerian Football Federation has been advised to include the Technical Adviser of Abia Warriors, Ladan Bosso among those to attend the upgrading course in London as the former flying Eagles Coach has lost touch with the trends in modern football.
Reacting to a statement credit to Bosso in one of the Sport Dallies calling on LMC to sanction Warri Wolves, the Media Manager of the Club based in Warri, Moses Etu said they are not really surprised that Bosso is crying wolf just to save his face because he has lost touch with the trends in modern football.
Apart from that, Etu said Bosso has never seen such crowd in any stadia in recent times and he was overwhelmed by what he saw and rather than finding solution to the dwindling performance of his club, he was busy admiring the crowd.
Etu further said Bosso was lucky that the team just returned from a tedious journey that took its toll on them, if not, his team would have been grounded.
“The present squad we have in Warri Wolves can ground Abia Warriors any day, anytime and anywhere. We don’t belong to the same category. We have proved over times that we are equal to the task this season and ready to confront any team. I really pity Coach Ladan Bosso because one can understand his frustration in recent times. He has not won anything and his team cannot be regarded as a force in the Country. When you count four, you must mention Warri Wolves and in the continent, we have also proved that. I want to appeal to NFF to include him among those to attend the next course because he has lost touch with modern trends in football.
“Moreover, he has not seen such a large crowd in recent times so he was overwhelmed. What I expect him to do now is to look for a way to redeem his image rather than trying to hide under the guise of any other thing. He was lucky that the team just returned from a long journey otherwise, they would have been grounded and we have the squad to put them where they belong.” said Etu.
Meanwhile, Etu has commended their fans for standing by the team and urge them to keep faith especially in the match against AC Leaopard from Congo as the boys have made up their mind to play the game of their lives come June 6th.
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Blank NEWS Online can report authoritatively that Nigeria’s federal and state governments have shared a total sum of N 6. 21 trillion from the Excess Crude Account (ECA) since 2011.
The Federal Government’s share from the ECA during the period under review was N3.29 trillion while the 36 states received a total of N2.92 trillion, a report by the Federal Ministry of Finance disclosed on Sunday, May 24, 2015.
The figures revealed that they received N966.6 billion in 2011, N816.3 billion in 2012, N859.4 billion in 2013 and N282.8 in 2014.
“The low figure for 2014 reflects the steep decline in revenues due to the impact of the crash in global oil prices which began in the middle of the year”, a statement issued by Mr. Paul Nwabuikwu, Special Adviser to the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala revealed.
States that got the highest amounts/allocation from the ECA:
Akwa Ibom (N265 billion)
Rivers (N230.4 billion)
Delta (N216.7 billion)
Bayelsa (N176.3 billion)
Kano (N106.5 billion)
Lagos (N82.9 billion).
States that received the least amounts/allocation from the ECA:
Kwara (N52.8 billion)
Enugu (N51.6 billion)
Gombe (N47.7 billion)
Nassarawa (N46.9 billion)
Ekiti (N46.8 billion)
Ebonyi (N44.3 billion).
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Nigeria, May 24, 2015, (Blank NEWS Online) –
>>>By Enalo James
There are strong indications that living to its responsibility, the Nigeria police with the coming in place of Mr. Solomon Arase as the new Inspector-General of Police has vowed not to leave any stone unturned towards eradicating crime and all forms of criminality in the land.
Sequel to this, investigations has revealed that the Police Force in a recent operation invaded a hide-out of suspected homosexuals (gays, bi-sexual and lesbians) in a popular brothel [name withheld] in Benin City, the Edo state capital.
Blank News exclusively gathered this piece of information from a top officer of the zone ‘5’ headquarters who spoke on condition of anonymity claiming he is not authorized to talk to the press on the matter.
He explained that undercover investigations is ongoing to fish out other fleeing suspected perpetrators, adding that detailed information will be made to the public as soon as they are apprehended, having gathered concrete information, the police invaded the hide-out where these homosexuals were having fun in a birthday party which took place at Isno hotel on May 22nd, the party which looks on the surface very unsuspecting while engaging in the heinous act”, he disclosed.
He further revealed that among those apprehended was a local movie star (name withheld), that eventually gave the force useful information on the names of other suspects as Evans Adewale, Otutu Ehos, Emmanuel Ogie, Cash Good, Steve Okunbor, Dick Aigbe, Adesuwa Etete and Johnson Obike, now at large.
According to him, those that escaped and are hiding from the law, they will soon be tracked down and prosecuted under the provisions of the Nigeria legal system.
He therefore warned members of the public to be wary and report suspicious locations to security operatives.
The senior force detective also used the opportunity to admonish parents to monitor activities of their children so as not to be lured into this barbaric act.
Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has suspended the Chairman and Members of the Civil Service Commission [CSC] over gross mismanagement of the recent recruitment exercise in to the state Civil Service.breaking news
By its composition, members of the Civil Service Commission [CSC] represent the three senatorial districts of the state with Dr. (Chief) Emmanuel Awatefe Tetsola at the helm of the commission.
Meanwhile, some members of the commission are presently undergoing interrogation by the security agencies for alleged fraud involving the sale of employment, gross misconduct and abuse of office.
Also, an Administrative Panel of Inquiry has been set up to review the exercise.
The Secretary to the State Government, Comrade Ovuozorie Macaulay in a statement issued on Thursday, May 21, 2015 said that the suspension became necessary as “the recruitment exercise which was to address some vacancies in the Service and respond to the employment needs of the state has however been abused and ridiculously mismanaged by the Civil Service Commission.”
“More embarrassing is the allegation of gross misconduct, abuse of office and fraud involving the sale of employment on account of which some members of the commission are presently undergoing interrogation by the security agencies”, Comrade Maucaulay stated.
Comrade Ovuzorie explained that the suspension of the Chairman and members of the CSC was to sanitise the exercise and pave way for an Administrative panel which has been set up to review the exercise.
Attempts by Blank NEWS Online to reach the ousted Chairman of Delta State Civil Service Commission, Dr. Emmanuel Tesola was unsuccessful while the Permanent Secretary, Sir A.O.U Ekeke could not speak on the issue due to extant civil service regulations.
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Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has disclosed that he has no intention of scrapping Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (DESOPADEC) as speculated in some parts of the state.Delta state Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan
Speaking during the commissioning of an Ultra- Modern Arts and Craft Centre yesterday (20-5-15) in Emede, lsoko-South Local Government Area, the governor said that contrary to claims in some quarters, the bill he sent to the state House of Assembly was meant to restructure and strengthen the commission to meet with the yearnings of traditional Rulers, women and youths in the host communities in the state.
” l have never contemplated scrapping DESOPADEC, l only sent a bill to the House of Assembly to restructure and strengthen the commission and make it responsive to the yearnings of Traditional Rulers, women and youths and to ensure more participation of the grassroots in the decision making process of the commission” noting that the new DESOPADEC bill was not against any ethnic group or political interest rather it would protect the interest of the grassroots.
He appealed to critics of government to stop politicizing the issue and they should go and read the provisions of the bill properly stressing that “they should stop blackmailing government, stop misleading the masses.”
The governor said that the Ultra- Modern Arts and Craft Training Centre would boost his administration’s Human Capital agenda and encourage youths to learn skills valuable to the state.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Barrister Richard Mofe- Damijo stated that graduates from the centre would be grouped into clusters for entrepreneurial development and finance by the State Ministry of Poverty Alleviation.
He appealed to creative artists from the State like Professor Bruce Onobrakpeya, Sam Ovraiti and Dr. Nelson Edewor among others to help train students in the centre.
ln a related development, the governor also commissioned the 10.8km Otor-Owhe-Otibio-Owhelogbo road in lsoko North Local Government Area and the Ossisa Bridge located at the sector “B” of the Ughelli Asaba Dual Carriage Road which covers 53km.
Governor Uduaghan said the roads was constructed to help improve on the evacuation of farm produce from the rural area to the urban centre and would contribute to the success of the “Delta Beyond oil” initiative of the state government.
The governor ordered that the Otor-Owhe-Otibio-Owhelogbo road should be demarcated and marked for the safety of motorists and other road users.
On the Ughelli-Asaba Road Section B, the governor said ” l am commissioning the Ossisa bridge on the section “B” axis of the Ughelli- Asaba Express Road which runs from Aradhe in lsoko North to Ossissa in Ndokwa East because it is the only project on the road that is ready.” .
The Commissioner For Works, Hon. Funkekeme Solomon in his address, who said that the road projects were constructed under the state rural integration programme to encourage agricultural development appealed to the people of the area to protect the projects and not damage or cut across the roads to lay any pipe.
The people of Onicha-Olona in Aniocha North have warned that recent attempts by the Delta state government to subvert the age-long traditional rulership system in the community may result in chaos.
At an enlarged emergency meeting held in Onicha-Olona on Tuesday, May 19, 2015, the Obi-In-Council of Onicha-Olona, consisting of the Obunzes who are representives of the six villages in the community urged the state government to jettison its plot to issue staff of office to Mr. Dumbili Nwadiajueboe as the Obi of Onicha-Olona.Chief Paul C. Ezeashi (Iyase of Onicha-Olona)
The Obi-In-Council, speaking through the Iyase of Onicha-Olona, Chief Paul Eziashi appealed to the state government to stop recognizing Mr. Dumbili Nwadiajueboe as Obi-elect of Onicha-Olona, saying that such action will have a catastrophic consequence on the community.
Chief Eziashi insisted that the Okpalabisi system, which has been the system of the production of the Obi of Onicha-Olona must be sustained, saying that the hereditary system that has been advocated by Mr. Dumbili Nwadiajueboe is alien to the community and enjoined the state government to dissociate itself from such ignoble moves that could plunge the community into avoidable problem.
The community also issued a statement titled “Re: Okpalabisi System as the Age-long system for the production of Onicha-Olona: The attempt by Mr. Dumbili Nwadiajueboe and his cohorts to foist hereditary system on Onicha-Olona people – A demand that Mr. Dumbili Nwadiajueboe should not be recognised as that Obi of Onicha-Olona or be given staff of office”. Chief Christopher Uzu Diji (Obi-designate and Obunze of Ogbeobi village)
The statement was signed by Chief Christopher Uzu Diji (Obi-designate and Obunze of Ogbeobi village), Chief Paul C. Ezeashi (Iyase of Onicha-Olona), Chief S. O. Nmakwe (Obunze of Umuolu village), Chief Ndidi Ikpeoyi (Obunze of Idumuje village), Chief E. I. Okodike (Odoziobodo of Onicha-Olona), Chief Alex Etum Odih (Onihe of Onicha-Olona and Obunze of Ishiekpe village), Chief P. O. Odor (Obunze of Ogbekenu village), Chief M. Dibie (Obunze of Agba village) and Chief O. Odih (Isioga Ani).
Blank NEWS Online can reveal that the kingmakers of Onicha-Olona community have concluded plans to install Chief Christopher Uzu Diji (Obi-designate and Obunze of Ogbeobi village) as the Obi of Onicha-Olona, being the rightful person based on the age-long Okpalabisi System of production of Obi of Onicha-Olona.
Attached copies of statement made availabile to Blank NEWS Online:
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The crisis between youths of Orhuwhorun and steel township a satellite residential area of Orhuwhorun Community has left one Stanley Okobiebie having his right hand chopped-off with several other youths in various degree of injuries sustained during the fracas over job sharing between the groups at the Ekrabe quarter land of Orhuwhorun.
An eye witness account told the Urhobo Voice that disagreement ensued over the refusal of township youths to allow the Orhuwhorun youths to participate in the pouring of concrete in a building site.
According to our source before the ugly incidence both groups have an understanding of sharing whatever job in equal proportion but on this very day the steel township youths refused the Orhuwhorun youths participation in the job. During the heated argument the township youths ran into a notorious Peoples Democratic Party thug residing within the precinct of the incidence and came out with Guns, cutlasses, battle axe, and dangerous weapons, shooting sporadically into the air as material where used freely in the melee leaving over five Orhuwhorun youths with deep matched cut and the chopping-off of the hands of Stanley Okobiebie.
The youths who sustained various injuries are receiving treatment in a government hospital in the area. While the police are yet to make any arrest.
Speaking with our reporter one of the youth who had a matchet cut on his head called Cyril said that a youth leaving in Steel Township called Emmanuel was the person who used cutlass on him and several others, who sustained injuries.
According to him when he was inflicted with the matched cut and blood was gushing out of his head he was ferried in a motorbike to the police station to lay complain.
The Divisional Police Office therefore ordered for the arrest of the
culprits. On getting to the scene of crime the suspect was nowhere to be found.
Furthermore youths of Steel Township took street smashing vehicles windscreen and louvers protesting what a source confirmed was in anger over the police arrest of suspected youth cultist in the areas.
Meanwhile the area where the incidence took place where portions of land released to the community through the Bureau for Public Enterprises (BPE) through Dan Odiete & Co to Orhuwhorun.
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Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has charged the nation’s leaders to embark on a value reorientation in the country so as to unlock the vast potentials of the country.
Besides, he urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to learn from its defeat at polls and reinvent itself to provide a robust opposition in the country.
Speaking weekend at the second University of Ibadan Alumni Association National Public Lecture titled “Good Governance as a Catalyst for Development: The Delta State Experience”, Governor Uduaghan said that “the leadership of Nigeria must collectively fashion a new value system. This is because it is the responsibility of leaders to mobilise the people towards effecting the necessary changes in attitude.”
“It is the leaders’ duty to impart nationalism and patriotism in the people. The leaders have the sacred task of ensuring that there is sincere popular participation in conducting public affairs, rather than indifference, cynicism and apathy,” adding: “I believe that the key to unlocking the great potentials of Nigeria is to increase popular participation. The people must be involved.”
He called on the ruling class to take the developmental yearnings of Nigerians as expressed in the last general elections seriously, observing that the voting pattern of the recent general elections has thrown a challenge of unification and healing process on the ruling class especially in-coming General Buhari’s government.
“The topic we are considering today is important at this juncture in the history of our country as we transit from one government, from one ruling party to another. It is happening at a time the yearnings of Nigerians to join the league of developed states are palpable. On March 28 and April 11, the people spoke and we all heard. I think the decision of the people should not be taken lightly.”
“Continuing, he said: “The election, however, also showed deep division, perhaps more than anyone could have anticipated. It was the first time the entire North would speak with one voice, and the old Eastern region also with a voice. The North Central, contrary to traditional pattern backed the opposition party- the APC. In voting, the entire North West voted massively for General Muhammadu Buhari, the APC candidate, while those in the South East and the South-South voted generally above 90 per cent for the PDP. My interpretation is that these developments have placed a huge burden on the president-elect and his team to begin unification and healing process of the country.”
The governor opined that the PDP must learn lessons from its loss at the last general elections, dig into its reserves and provide credible opposition in the country stating “the PDP has to show that it is a party of credible leaders with robust and visionary progamme. As opposition party, the PDP has to be effective as a party and as the conscience of the nation. This is not the time to despair. This is the time for hard work. I call on all committed, knowledgeable and mature leaders to step forward to pick up the pieces. If the New Patriotic Party and National Democratic Congress could do it in Ghana, the PDP could yet bounce back. It has the resources to do so. We may have lost the election but let us not lose the lesson of the defeat.”
Dr. Uduaghan attributed the fast pace of development and ethnic harmony in the Delta State to good governance and inclusiveness of all ethnic groups in project allocation, development and appointment.
He opined that the development of investment attracting infrastructure, the diversification of the economy, transparency and accountability in the management of resources and fair and equitable distribution of political appointments have made Delta State to tower above its peers in peaceful coexistence and development.
The governor who said that the state Independent Power Plant Project would be privatised in line with the Federal Government’s privatisation of the power sector disclosed that pitfalls noticed in the operations of the state Oil Producing Areas Development Commission [DESOPADEC] prompted government reforms of the commission adding that a bill to this effect has been sent to the state House of Assembly.
Dr. Uduaghan appealed to the incoming administration to build on the foundation he has laid in weaning the state revenue base from oil, expressing pride that he achieved great political inclusiveness when Delta North Senatorial District produced the next governor without rancour and bitterness.
The Governor who was conferred with honorary membership of the Alumni Association pledged support to the Alumni Association in their developmental efforts in the university.
Dr. Kemi Emina, National President, University of Ibadan Alumni Association said that the Lecture Series highlighted developmental issues and how such issues could be resolved for the benefits of Nigerians.
Chairman of the occasion and Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Isaac Adewole commended Governor Uduaghan for the lecture and for putting ethnic harmony and infrastructural development in the front burner.
Meanwhile Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan has appealed to Alumni Associations to assist in the development of their universities.
Governor Uduaghan who made this call when he paid a courtesy visit on the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Isaac Adewole at the weekend said that the task of funding and equipping universities has become enormous to be left in the hands of government alone adding that alumni associations should regularly identify projects they could sponsor for the benefit of the staff and students.
He commended the university’s Alumni Association for embarking on the construction of a one hundred bed post-graduate hall of residence.
The governor also commended the university management for its cordial relationship with alumni association and for promoting greenery in its campuses.
The Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Isaac Adewole expressed appreciation to Governor Uduaghan for contributing to the development of universities and the medical profession in the country.
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Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi, has expressed the readiness of his Administration to handover on May 29. Amaechi who dismissed rumours he would not be handing over the reign of governance on the date, wondered what he would be doing in office after May 29. The Rivers state Governor averred that the entire cabinet has made ready their notes preparatory to the terminal date of his regime.
“We are ready for handover unlike the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, at the centre that is busy making new appointments and sacking people. They have refused to brief the Muhammadu Buhari Transition Team and All Progressives Congress, APC, is not screaming blue murder. Rather, the APC at the centre is meeting and planning and preparing for government”.
Painting an ugly scenario in Rivers State, Gov. Amaechi stated that rather than support democracy, PDP has been busy doctoring election results and Voter Register.
“Unfortunatelyin Rivers State, the PDP is busy doctoring election results, doctoring Voter Register as to cover their stolen mandate, and crying wolf to cover their mischief”.
Amaechi who spoke through the Rivers State Commissioner of Information and Communications, Ibim Semenitari, added that whoever would take over from him has no reason to panic.
In a statement in Port Harcourt on Friday, Semenitari dismissed insinuations the outgoing regime had shown no co-operation with the man the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, declared winner of the April 11 governorship election in Rivers State. While dismissing reports the outgoing Administration has been un-co-operative with the PDP, Semenitari allayed such fears saying that PDP already has everything going for it.
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Blank NEWS Online reports that General Motors is celebrating 500 million vehicles built globally over the past 106 years – the most by any automaker to date.
GM is the first vehicle manufacturer to achieve this milestone and remains focused on being the most valued automaker in the world.
While GM celebrates this achievement, General Motors South Africa (GMSA) is proud to have produced 2.76 million of these vehicles in the country since it started manufacturing operations in 1926.
Ian Nicholls, Vice President GMSA Operations, said GM attributes this momentous milestone to all its loyal customers.
Nicholls emphasized that they could not have reached this milestone had it not been for the customers. “Five hundred million vehicles means 500 million customers.
“We want to build on the solid foundation and the positive contribution GMSA has made to the lives of people since 1926.”
Nicholls believes that buying a GM product from a dealer is not just a purchase, it is a memory. This memory is further nurtured by excellent aftersales service and customer support.
“We are committed to providing outstanding levels of service to our Chevrolet, Opel and Isuzu customers through our 200 dealers across Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Nicholls.
With a footprint in the region since 1913 when the first Chevrolets were imported, GMSA’s long heritage bears testimony to years of experience in sales and after sales service.
Today the South African plant continues to proudly build the Chevrolet Spark, Chevrolet Utility, the Isuzu Pick-up and Isuzu Trucks.
Other key GMSA production milestones include:
1926: After seven months of production the 2 000th Chevrolet rolls off the line.
1927: In May the 5 000th Chevrolet rolled off the line.
1929: Production of the 25 000th Chevrolet
1966: Produced 750 000 vehicles (all brands)
1972: The 1 millionth vehicle came off the production line.
2014: 235 714 Chevrolet Utilities and 562 500 Isuzu KB’s produced at the end of 2014.
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There is no doubt whatsoever that come May 29, 2015, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa will be sworn-in as the Governor of Delta State by the Grace of God and barring all other unforeseen existential circumstances.Delta Governor-Elect, Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa brandishing his Certificate of Return
Following his divine and resounding Pan-Delta landslide victory at the April 11, 2015 Delta State Governorship elections, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa not only fulfilled the desired equity mandate of integrating and locating the Anioma people and the Delta North axis centrally in the Delta political family, but at the same time, re-defined and reinforced the essence of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state and in that process, re-affirmed once again, the umbilical bonding that has existed between the people of Delta and the party that has governed the state since 1999.
However, for the avoidance of doubt, the journey of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa to Unity House, Asaba, must be put in its proper contextual genesis which of course is his victory at the Delta State PDP Primaries, achieved against the backdrop of a herculean political agenda, plotted and hatched in a diabolically embellished scenario that not only threatened to derail the divine fulfillment of the mandate, but indeed disembowel the structural substance of the PDP in the state and eventually dislocate, and erase the political essence, relevance and existence of the Anioma political credibility into complete extinction.
Thus, in achieving that initial victory at the Delta PDP Primaries,
Senator Okowa succeeded in building a formidable political structure and platform, founded on the resilient, committed, dedicated and unflinchingly loyal support and endorsement of some great Deltans, across the three senatorial zones, whose vision, courage, bravery and dynamism, from within the immediate political structure and in the secular external political space, drove the process of ensuring his emergence as the next Governor of Delta State to its ultimate acceptable conclusion.
Prominent amongst the gladiators that delivered Okowa, according to impeccable insider sources in the external political space were, Chief Sunny Odogwu and Chief E.K Clark, both of whom had always been major advocates for an Anioma Governor in 2015 and whose overall contributions to the end result can never really be fully quantified in the scheme of things.
Captain Pius Sinibe, Elder Emmanuel Ogidi, and Peter Nwaoboshi, three former Delta PDP Chairmen, and founding members of the PDP, who led the party with great vision, aplomb, dynamism, charisma and panache in their separate tenures and also went the extra mile this time around to forestall the demise of the PDP in Delta State, which had appeared potentially imminent, if someone else instead of Okowa had won the elections.
There was also Senator James Manager, whose authority and influence not only mustered, mobilized and consolidated all the forces in the riverine axis, but equally compelled the withdrawal of opposition to his Senatorial re-election, which has now position him as the most distinguished and ranking Senator from Delta State in the National Assembly.
Solomon Ogba, who as an original member of the G3, which delivered Uduaghan in 2007, has remained faithful and loyal to the original party structure in the state; Chief Askia Ogeh, who also covered the Isoko flank with great courage underlined by an unspoken mission of political rehabilitation, and some key political figures in Delta Central including Chief Monday Igbuya.
And of course Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), ex militant leader now metamorphosing into a major statesman and opinion leader, whose latter day influence on the party’s fortunes has crystallized in the most practical yet unorthodox of political calculations.
The political analysts who followed the election equally claim that kudos should also go to some top Anioma aspirants, who not only turned out for the primary election to fulfill all righteousness, but had already allegedly instructed their delegates and political structures to remain faithful to the Anioma and Delta North agenda to deliver Okowa from the primaries to the general elections.
The engine room of the internal working structure of the Okowa mandate agenda was headed by the indefatigable Rt. Hon. Ovie Agas, who was ably supported by the dynamic trio of Dr. Kingsley Emu and especially in the Media and Communications sector by Hon. Solomon Funkekeme and Festus Okubor.
But beyond these very outstanding and highly cerebral Deltans are two men who have remained very central to the entire operations and have been the singular most constant factors in the concerted crusade to ensure that the message of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa continues to echo and resonate strongly vibrantly in the media and socio political space. They are Hillary Ibegbulam and Eugene Uzum.
Hillary Ibegbulam is the Special Adviser to Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Hillary Ibegbulam and if there is one man who has been so synonymous and symbolic with the vicissitudes and unraveling of the Okowa political narrative, since he came into the public eye; a man who can literarily lay down his life for Okowa, then that person is certainly Hillary.
Barrister Eugene Uzum on the other hand virtually came into his own when the dire need to re-energize and galvanize the media political situation room and re-position it to engage the emerging potency of the opposition propaganda machinery, became an imperative that required an urbane, yet level headed and clinical result oriented sensitization campaign, became an emphatic imperative for the Okowa campaign organization.
Young, cerebral, highly articulate and possessing very robust democratic and post-modern eclectic inclinations, honed on the finer polemics of brilliant legalese, rigorous jurisprudence and cosmopolitan activism nurtured through the excellent understanding, exploration and deployment of exciting new media frontiers, Eugene Uzum has variously served as the Special Assistant to the former Delta state Commissioner of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Kingsley Emu and most recently as the director, Media/Communications, in Senator Ifeanyi Okowa’s Constituency Office, which was transformed into the new social media committee that performed so brilliantly in the collective effort to deliver Senator Okowa as the next Governor of Delta State.
Operating within the fluid ambit and focused direction of the wizened sage and master strategist Dr. Festus Okubor, the new media team piloted by Eugene Uzum and propelled by the tireless efforts of the like of Cletus Uwakina, Jonathan Onwuka, Nelson Egware and the ‘little genuis’ Ossai Ovie Success, as well as the online media platforms that provided outlets for the stories, amongst other key contributors, have not only delivered on their own self assigned mandate in a total self effacing loyalty to the ultimate agenda but have continued, even in achieved victory, to keep the Okowa mandate, personality and agenda fresh, positive and rejuvenated in the public discourse.
No doubt, the lobbyists have gone to town, employing all manner of tactics including arrogating monumental importance to their contributions during the campaigns, to blemishing and defaming the personalities and reputations of perceived challengers, to even attempting to arm-twist and blackmail Senator Okowa with a false resume of their important public value for mischief or ego massaging, as the case may be.
The fact however remains that there are those whose contributions to the achievement of Senator Okowa’s emergence as the next governor of Delta State, can neither be undermined nor diminished. Senator Okowa himself has already promised to run an administration where positive, pragmatic and progressive effort and results will be duly and justly rewarded and roles will be properly defined to maximize capacity and promote excellence, especially for the youths.
His victory is not only a victory for Deltans, it is most importantly a victory for Delta State as prosperity beckons as a new dawn breaks over the state. To God be the glory.
– David Diai (Publisher, Flashpoint News Online) & Albert Ograka (Publisher, Blank NEWS Online)
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Delta state government has expressed determination to further upgrade the Asaba International Airport to meet standards, saying that the recent down grade in the status of the Airport by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has not affected the operation of scheduled commercial flights in and out of the airport.
A statement signed by the Delta state Commissioner for Information, Chike Ogeah Esq reads:
“On April 27, 2015, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) effected a down grade of Asaba Airport following the directive for the rehabilitation of the existing runway, taxiways and the construction of perimeter fence as well as training of technical personnel.
“By the directive, only Dash 8 – Q 400 planes or their equivalent will continue to operate through the airport until the issues raised are resolved while all Boeing 737s and jets of similar category will be barred.
“The issues raised by the NCAA have been known to the Delta State Government which has already set in motion the machinery for effecting the upgrades demanded by the regulatory agency.
First, His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, Governor of Delta State, has approved the rehabilitation of the Runway and Taxiways in the airport.
“Similarly, the Governor has approved the engagement of a seasoned consultant to supervise the rehabilitation exercise. However, being a public sector project, extant rules on procurement and due process will be strictly adhered to. This may, at the initial stage, impact on the commencement of the project.
“The Government is vigorously processing the mobilization of the contractor and the consultant for the job to commence in earnest.
“Already, work on the perimeter fencing has commenced. However, there is additional acquisition of over 400 hectares of adjoining land which has increased the scope of work. To boost security within the airport axis, the Government has employed 20 security guards to carry out routine surveillance of the airside.
“On the training of requisite technical personnel, all the staff recently employed by the State Government have undergone the four-week mandatory basic training at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Training School, Lagos in 2013. Arrangement has reached advanced stage for sending them on specialized training relevant to their various departments.
“It should be noted that Airports are permanent construction sites the world over and regulatory agencies which in Nigeria is the NCAA have the mandate to oversight all the airports and may from time to time raise any concerns thereof.
“The down grade in the status of Asaba Airport has not in any way affected the operation of scheduled commercial flights in and out of the airport. Arik Air, Aero Contractors and Overland Air which operate scheduled daily flights has since deployed the right aircraft specification and are providing seamless services to passengers.
“We hereby assure the general public that the Delta State Government is committed to effecting the upgrade of the facilities directed by the NCAA promptly and the status of Asaba Airport will soon be restored to accommodate bigger jets such as the Boeing 737. It should also be noted that government being a continuum, the coming of a new administration on May 29 will in no way affect the schedule and timeliness of the facility upgrade. Wherever the upgrade exercise is by May 29, the coming government of Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa will see the project through.
“The airport is critical to consolidating the emerging economic frontier created by the airport which has become one of the few viable ones in the country.”
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THE Governor-elect for Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has inaugurated three committees comprising ninety-eight Deltans for a smooth democratic transition process.Delta state Governor-Elect, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa speaking during the inauguration of the transition committee at Government House, Asaba
Speaking at the inauguration committee at Government House, Asaba, Senator Okowa informed Deltans that he would ensure equity and fairness in running the affairs of the state and informed the people that membership of the committee was not an automatic ticket to be members of the state Executive Council.
According to him, the committees which includes Technical Committee on Programme Development/Governance, Committee on Hand Over and the Committee of Night of Praise would ensure the seamless transition in the state.
“ The transition from one administration to another is often a defining moment in any democracy, the work can sometimes be burdensome but not overwhelming. It can be challenging but gratifying when it results in a seamless transition and the development of a blueprint that ensures the incoming government starts on a sure and strong footing.”, Senator Okowa stated, stressing “the success or otherwise of any transition process is measured by how quickly an incoming administration is able to get to grips with the work at hands and begins to effectively implement its plans, policies and programmes”.
“The members of these committees to be inaugurated today have been selected based on certain criteria, it does not mean they work harder than others, membership of the committees does not translate to appointment into the state Executive Council, appointment will not be based on the work of the committee or on the recommendation of members of the committees”, Dr. Okowa said.
The Governor-Elect said that the terms of reference for the Committee on Programmes Development/Governance include making preparation for the smooth take-off and implementation of the policies, and programmes of the incoming administration after inauguration; advise on governance structure, size, relationship and best practices that will enable greater efficiency and outcome; examine the 2015 budget and advise in line with work plan, adding that those of the Handover Committee included provision of standard template and guidance for the preparation of handover documents by every ministry; review and give situation reports as regards projects, programmes and activities of the ministry; ensuring adequate documentation of the assets and liabilities of the ministry/agency; taking stock of the resources and staffing of the ministry and relating and coordinating with officials of the state government ministries, departments and agencies, our party and other stakeholders in the state.
Senator Okowa enjoined members of the Committees to work diligently and cooperate with one another and other members of the party for the successful transition of the incoming government stressing that “I am asking you to play your part in our quest to build the Delta of our dreams, if you do, then a new and better day of prosperity for all Deltans is within our reach”.
Earlier, the Chairman of the state PDP, Chief Edwin Uzor urged members of the committees to work assiduously and with due diligence and in consultation with other members so as to move the state forward and ensure lasting peace in the state.
The Committee on Programmes Development/Governance has Professor Sam Oyovbaire as Chairman, that on Handover has Chief Clement Ofuani as Chairman while that on Night of Praise has Barr. Richard Damijo as chairman.
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The senatorial candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Ighoyota Amori has been declared winner of the Delta Central Senatorial election. Chief Ighoyota Amori
The rerun election held on Saturday, April 25, 2013 as fellows:- SAPELE WARDS: 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11; OKPE WARDS: 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9; UDU WARDS: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10; UVWIE WARDS: 1, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10; UGHELLI NORTH WARDS: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10; and the entire ETHIOPE-EAST LOCAL GOVT.
It could also be recalled that Chief Amori of the PDP was already leading with 20,000 votes at the earlier collated results of the March 28 National Assembly elections.
Announcing the results, the Independent National Electoral Commission [INEC] said Amori polled 116,723 votes to defeat two other contestants.
According to the returning officer for the election, Prof. Prekeyi Tawari-Fideyin,
Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege of the Labour party scored 76,635 votes, while Halims Agoda of the APC polled 15, 491 votes.
The margin of victory with which Amori defeated his opponents, is a reaffirmation of PDP’s absolute supremacy in Delta state.
“The people of Delta Central have overtly demonstrated their love and confidence in the PDP. It is now clear to the opposition that they have no root in Delta politics. With this clear victory, it is hoped that losers will accept defeat with equanimity and congratulate the winner,” a leader of the political party said.
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On that fateful Night,Uncle Femi rushed to my Dad’s Peugeot 504 to get the car battery, connected to the TV set, it came alive, NEPA had earlier seized power, and, once again we continued with the Nigeria vs Italy at the group stage of the FIFA World Cup, USA ’94.
The Nigeria Super Eagles as at then, was the first African country to be ranked 5th in Global football and so far,the peak of their ratings. Present day, they have capsized like a damaged boat, thrown into a museum where they become an historical object.
The Most Senior National Football team has been reduced to nothing but a laughing object, unfortunately they have gone from Super ‘Eagles’ to Super ‘Chicken’ what went wrong is the question on the lips of many Nigerians.
Exit of fine footballers like Rashidi Yekini, JayJay Okocha, Samson Siasia, Celestine Babayaro, Kanu Nwankwo and many others is not a blessing as we only produce average players without solid talents, a player who seem to be exemplary at the start of his career starts to either get distracted, or become so rich, rude and nonchalant, hence we fail as a Nation. However, these players give their best to club and nothing to country
We have gotten to a stage where players want to adorn the jersey for show off or to attract better clubs, most of them do not have the Nation’s interest at heart, Sports Psychologists and Administrators need to repair their damaged impression, this is so wrong.
The Nigeria Football Federation need to revive the Super Eagles and take them back to the Glory days, the African Cup of Nations was won by proxy, and I don’t believe the Eagles were so good. They did not deserve to win that tournament, I was there from start to finish, it was a poor and lucky Team. As a Nigerian I’m happy we won, but after winning what happened, we collapsed yet again, and could not defend the trophy, Nigeria did not qualify. #EpicFail
Managed with a slim chance to qualify for the world cup, the Squad to the World Cup and Confederations Cup was the worst in the History of the Super Eagles, that squad will be easily defeated by a combination of Kano Pillars and Enyimba International best legs, their performance was poor, yet record was repeated. We cannot always build or rate the Eagles on mere luck. Unacceptable.
Nigeria is blessed with a lot of football Academies, as a matter of fact, it is the in-thing now, the NFF should go back to the roots, get genuine scouts, regulate these Football academies properly, get fully involved. We are a people of 170million and getting 30 solid players out of that should not be a big deal, players should be given trials from time to time, let us end godfatherism in players selection, let us be real if we want to improve. Provide an enabling environment to all and sundry.
Kudos and Many Thanks to the former NFF President, Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi in conjunction with Pa Festus Onigbinde for the Fantastic idea and for inventing the U13 National Team. These set of kids moved to the U17 and later won the FIFA World Cup in 2013, the same set won the All African Games for the U20, that is passing a message, right?.
Shamefully, the NFF have scrapped the U13 National Team, I always ask myself, but why? Whatever happened to continuity, my heart bleeds for our Football.
And to the Coaches, stop selling players to do businesses, sentiments will not win you tournaments, solid talents is what you need, recently, a player was heavily criticized because he came from China, but truly he had a good match, he scored, and realistically not a Super Eagles material, there are better players who can dominate the field well and bring back the glory.
Must it be foreign based all the time? Big clubs and Big names do not play football as far as I’m concerned. Pure talents, those who know the joker card of the game can do it.
Sponsors are no longer coming and they will rather put their monies on Talent shows which is more genuine than the Super ‘Chicken’ as people mockingly address them.
Stephen Keshi has been reappointed as the head coach, how far can he go? It will take time and it is a process, he has to be real, cooperate with his backroom staff, work with the NFF Technical department, He cannot do it alone. We need good heads to come together and take us higher.
Gently, Uncle Femi returned the battery to the car after Roberto Baggio had stopped our chance of getting to the Quarter-Finals, We were all sad and retired into our bedroom, Anty Taiye my Uncle’s girlfriend was inconsolable, she wept bitterly. Those were the glory days.
Thanks.
twitter @AderonkeW
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Blank NEWS Online reports that Chief Rochas Okorocha, Imo State Governor and candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), in the April 25 supplementary gubernatorial election, has been re-elected for a second term in office.
The State Returning Officer (SRO) Professor Oyewusi Ibidapo-Obe of the Federal University Ndufu Alike, Ikwo, Ebonyi State declared the results on Sunday, April 26, 2015, in Owerri.
Acoording to him, Okorocha polled a total of 416,996 votes to defeat his closest Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) rival and Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Chief Emeka Ihedioha, who scored 320,705 votes.
“I, Professor Oyewusi Ibidapo-Obe, hereby certify that I was the Returning Officer for the Imo governorship election held on the 11th and 25th of April 2015, that election was contested and the candidates received the following votes:
“Ojiri Kenneth Ikechukwu, Accord Party 2,193
Owelle Rochas E. Anayo Okorocha, APC, 416,996
Captain Ihenacho Emmanuel, APGA 28,434
Hon. Chukwuemeka Ihedioha, PDP, 320,705
Hon. Ukanacho Osmond Chima, UPP, 2,974
“That Owelle Rochas E. Anayo Okorocha of APC, having satisfied the requirements of the law and scored the highest number of votes, is hereby declared the winner and is returned elected”.
A total of 806,765 votes were recorded out of 1.9 million registered voters in Imo state, while 24,239 were invalid.
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Blank NEWS Online can report that following a high magnitude earthquake which struck Nepal on Saturday, the Ministry of Interior’s search and rescue team has departed for Nepal to help with the international relief operation after the earthquake which caused hundreds of casualties.
The team leaves today, Sunday April 26, 2015 with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and the orders of General HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.
Lt. Colonel Mohammed Abdul Jalil Al Ansari, Head of the UAE Search and Rescue Team, Director General of Civil Defense in Abu Dhabi pointed that Lt. General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior gave orders to mobilize right away and fulfill the orders of the higher leadership to relief the people of Nepal, with an Emirati team of 88 professionals, including officers and rescuers, with equipment and tools necessary for the search and rescue operations.
The team will be accompanied by the UN assessment and coordination team to participate in the search and rescue operations and provide the international help needed to face the devastating effects of the earthquake.
He added that the team carries out the international coordination and its relief duties with swift actions to help the friendly nations and carry out its humanitarian duties and field work. This exemplifies the keenness of the UAE to help the people affected with natural disasters all around the world, and help the brotherly and friendly nations.
Al Ansari said that the team will use advanced equipment during the search and rescue operations to help and identify the victims, as well as other tasks.
It is worth mentioning that the UAE’s search and rescue team participated in similar missions to help the victims of an earthquake in Pakistan and Indonesia in 2006 and 2007 and in Afghanistan in 2008 and other places. The team also carried out a drill in a virtual building for training to handle the buildings affected by earthquakes, as a part of its preparations before being categorized by the United Nations’ International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) as a heavy weight team, and the coordination with the neighboring countries about the best ways to respond to disasters. lVolunteers help with rescue work at the site of a building that collapsed after an earthquake in Kathmandu, Nepal, Saturday, April 25, 2015.
Recall that a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Nepal on Saturday, killing over a thousand people and triggering a deadly avalanche on Mount Everest.
The earthquake, the worst to hit the country in 80 years, caused massive destruction in the Himalayan nation, including destroying a 19th-century tower in the capital Kathmandu.
Nepali police report that 1,130 people were killed, according to Reuters. The death toll is likely to rise.
The tremors rocked neighboring countries, killing 34 in northern India, six in Tibet and two in Bangladesh, as well as two Chinese people on the Nepal-China border, according to the Associated Press.
The earthquake’s epicenter was 50 miles east of Nepal’s second largest city, Pokhara. It caused an avalanche on Mount Everest that left eight people dead, Reuters reported. A climber at Everest base camp, Alex Gavan, wrote on Twitter:
“Running for life from my tent. Unhurt. Many many people up the mountain.”
Nepali authorities struggled to assess the full scale of the damage, but many feared the worst.
“Almost the entire country has been hit,” the deputy chief of mission at Nepal’s Embassy in New Delhi Krishna Prasad Dhakal said. Officials warned the death toll is likely to rise.
“We are totally cut off from most parts of our country,” Nepal Disaster Management Authority official Ram Narayan Pandey told Reuters.
In Kathmandu, The Guardian reported that thousands of people rushed onto the streets after the quake in an effort to try to remain safe, and many were too afraid to return after a series of powerful aftershocks.
Among the buildings that collapsed was the Dharahara Tower, a UNESCO-recognized landmark built in 1832 and a popular visitor site. Around 200 people were trapped when the tower collapsed, police said.
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No sooner than Gen Muhammadu Buhari emerged President-elect of Nigeria was he also selected as one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World. The magazine recognizes that people’s expectations of Buhari are high in keeping with “… the historic conditions of the election”.General Muhammadu Buhari (GMB), Nigeria’s president-elect
Those historic conditions ushered in a significant landslide for the All Progressives Congress party (APC) with victories at the Federal Government, a clear majority in the Senate and lower house of assembly as well as a significant win in the most important state in the country – Lagos.
Those expectations will mostly be gauged directly from the quality of people who will be in this government. Up for grabs are powerful positions in Ministries and parastatals where the country needs progressive and definitive action in areas like Power, Education and Agriculture to mention just a few.
To achieve any significant progress, this Government must hit the ground running, and behind the scenes, Buhari and the Vice President-elect Yemi Osinbajo are already vetting people who need to surround them in the process.
But Buhari has also been managing the extent of these expectations, emphasizing that 16 years of mismanagement will not be undone by a sleight of hand. People must be patient with steady incrementalism.
Throughout this, they also maintain that the APC remains committed to executing its signature programmes – huge policy and social initiatives that cannot be hijacked. The incoming regime has made it clear that tokenism will not solve the major problems that ail the country.
Chief among these programmes include plans to curb poverty by creating jobs and setting up social welfare schemes that cater to the poorest Nigerians. One of these schemes is a Conditional Cash Transfer that pays N5000 – N7500 monthly to 25 Million of the poorest Nigerians over the next four years as long as they send their children to school and get them immunized. Another provides free meals to children in primary schools nationwide while there are plans to stimulate the Agricultural sector and institute a National Health Insurance Scheme that provides healthcare cover for poor people for just N500-N1000 yearly contribution.
Judging by the bold and massive nature of these initiatives, for many Nigerians – May 29, the date for the formal handover of Government cannot come quick enough.
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The Delta State Government has banned all forms of street trading along Market Road Sapele in Sapele Local Government Area.
A statement signed by the State Director of Information, Mr. Paul Osahor, directed traders who have been allocated market stalls by the Delta State Government to move into the market and take possession of their stalls for the purposes of trading and other lawful transactions.
The Delta State Government who in October 2006, embarked on the reconstruction of the Sapele market which was ravaged by fire, emphasized that the market project which was primarily the responsibility of the Local Government Council to handle, had to be undertaken by the State Government under the Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) arrangement because the project was beyond the financial capacity of the council.
It is said “under the BOT arrangement, the ownership of the market would revert to the Local Government Council, after the State Government has recouped its investment on the project which fund was sourced from the Bond Market.”
The State Government having completed the project, allocated stalls to beneficiaries to enable it recover the money spent on the building of the market.
The statement advised all allottees of stalls in the Sapele Ultra Modern Market, to pay the necessary fees and charges into the state government treasury through the Office of the Accountant General.
It exhorted all allottees to deal with only agents of the State Government in matters of collection/payment of fees/levies for the stalls, even as it urged Market associations, traders and the general public shouldto be guided accordingly.
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The Delta State Ministry of Health said there has not been any outbreak of cholera in any part of the State, contrary to online media report.
The Ministry said its visit to the two communities in Isoko South Local Government Area, suspected to have suffered cholera outbreak, indicated that a total of 32 person were line-listed with five (5) reported deaths in the two communities; two in Umeh and three in Erowa.
According to the Ministry, the stool samples collected and sent to laboratory in Lagos were reported negative for cholera emphasizing that the suspected outbreak of gastroenteritis has since been controlled and contained.
The Ministry said it could not immediately establish the cause of the death of the five persons that died since they were already buried, but said her investigation showed that no one contacted cholera in the said communities.
The Ministry said investigation however revealed that those living far from the functional community borehole that make use of water from the river were the ones having cases of vomiting or stooling while households in the immediate vicinity of the borehole reported no case.
It added the further examination of the communities revealed that most of the houses lacked toilet or latrine facilities thereby making open defecation a common practice.
The Ministry therefore called on members of the affected communities and Deltans in general to maintain a high hygienic practice, advising them to boil and filter water from, well, streams and rivers before drinking.
It would be recalled that the Punch newspapers published on 20th April, 2015 on its online platform purporting that over 30 persons died of cholera in Delta State.
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Okpe political leaders Tuesday recognized the contributions of the Majority Leader of Delta State House of Assembly, Chief Monday Ovwigho Igbuya to the progress of the kingdom, describing him as a distinguished politician and patriot.Igbuya
Igbuya, who is also the national vice-chairman of Urhobo Political Forum, UPF, was re-elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The leaders who spoke in Sapele stated that Igbuya deserved to be the next Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly because of his sterling performance, experience and integrity
Citing him for honesty, diligence and loyalty, the leaders praised him for upholding the tenets of good governance and championing the cause of Okpe people.
Rising from an emergency meeting Tuesday, the Okpe Patriotic Front (OPF), an umbrella organization of politicians from different political parties in the kingdom said “the only person who can truly lead the assembly in the spirit of one Delta is Igbuya, considering his wealth of experience and performance”.
“The leadership slot must be for the best and simply the best. Delta State House of Assembly under Igbuya’s administration will be one truly based on the rule of law, accountability and transparency” the leaders said.
Calling Igbuya “a determined champion of progressive values, and a constant voice for tolerance, inclusiveness, fairness and dignity, the leaders said in a statement signed by OPF chairman, Mr. Alex Ayomanor “Igbuya will do more in a way that will bring total transformation to our people and the state”
“Igbuya served Sapele people with distinction. He is forthright, honest and meek in attitude.
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Ahead of this Saturday’s Delta Central Senatorial run-off election, Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has appealed to the electorate in the area to shun acts capable of disrupting the election.Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan (left) and Governor-elect Ifeanyi Okowa
Governor Uduaghan who made the appeal in Warri during a meeting with elders and leaders of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in the area warned against inciting statements stating that security agencies were poised to deal with anyone engaged in electoral violence.
He reminded politicians and their supporters of the clean bill given to the state by international and local elections observers in the just concluded general elections, stressing that everyone must avoid electoral violence because of the negative effects it has on the economy of the state.
He advised eligible voters in the area to come out and cast their votes as the state government has done everything possible to guarantee their safety.
He enjoined leaders of the party in the area to lead the party to victory in the run-off election as well as thanked all who worked for the victory of the PDP in the previous elections.
The Governor-Elect, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa advised members of the party to be committed to victory in the run-off election.
He condemned acts of violence in some areas particularly in Uvwie Local Government Area which affected the chances of the PDP in the elections and advised PDP supporters to mobilize vote for the party candidate Chief Ighoyota Amori.
The State PDP Chairman, Chief Edwin Uzor encouraged members of the party not to do anything that would affect the party’s chances in the election.
He reminded members that since the run-off election was the last election they should mobilize for votes for the party’s candidate.
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Promontory CEO explains what tough regulatory expectations mean for the region and the world.
Regulatory regimes are becoming tougher around the world, raising the question: who is responsible for the trend and how long is it likely to continue? Promontory Founder and CEO Eugene Ludwig, addressed this question during a talk at Capital Club, Dubai’s premier private City Club and member of the ENSHAA group of companies. Members and their guests learnt about the intricacies of the financial services industry and the challenges it faces both regionally and globally.
Ludwig explained that the public and private sectors need to work in partnership, and that leadership of the entire financial industry is critical at a time when regulations are tightening. Ludwig stated, “Through the last seven years of crisis and recovery, we’ve witnessed an increase in global regulatory standards that is really unparalleled in the history of finance. Things are safer today in the financial system than they have been, that is, the banking system in particular. Capital levels are up, risk taking is more measured, liquidity cushions are larger, exposures to riskier activities have been monitored more effectively and many high risk activities have diminished.”
He went on to explain that the regulatory bar is being raised in the US and globally each day, and the expectations are most clearly seen in a variety of global forums such as the Financial Stability Board, the Basel Committee, and the G-20.
The US often applies strict standards to domestic institutions and foreign firms operating in the country, all of whom are under increased pressure. Ludwig said, “This is not just the US at work, but is very much the product of a globalising set of standards—they will not be exactly uniform but they are going in the same direction. And there I think we cannot overstate the degree to which we are part of a global village and every day more so.”
As the financial industry–an information business dependent on technology–changes rapidly, global rules are becoming more and more constraining. Cybercrime is growing, and the US will continue to tighten banking rules with expectations that institutions will reduce the consequences of breaches.
In terms of sanctions, American and global regulators are staunch advocates of these measures as well as anti-money-laundering mechanisms. This is due to several reasons: first, there are very few non-military weapons countries have in their possession to deal with problems, which makes sanctions a favourable option; second, from the perspective of government, resources in the financial domain are solely the responsibility of the private sector to enforce; and third, the world continues to face complex dilemmas which ensures the prolonged existence of sanctions and anti-money laundering.
Ludwig cautioned institutions against simply hoping the regulations will go away and noted that “the greatest risk to any major financial institution at this moment in time is complacency.”
In sum, the bar of regulatory compliance continues to rise globally, sanctions and anti-money laundering are inexpensive mechanisms from a government perspective, the cost of noncompliance is rising, reputational risks continue to heighten, and US and global banks are becoming warier of how and with whom they do business. Despite these challenges, Ludwig remains hopeful about how finance, especially in the UAE, can help make the world a better place. He commented, “This beautiful, extraordinary city, and Abu Dhabi, another extraordinary city, are very much a product of the best of finance. They simply would not exist, not only because of the leadership of their leaders, but for the talents of the financial community here and around the world.”
About Capital Club: http://www.capitalclubdubai.com/
Capital Club is Dubai’s premier private City Club situated in the heart of the financial district – DIFC. A Members-only Club in a contemporary setting for Members to network professionally and socially; dine and party; host private meetings; and attend a wealth of social and business events. The Club is connected to over 250 premier private clubs around the world as part of its reciprocal club network. Capital Club Dubai is majority owned by Signature Clubs International, a member of the ENSHAA group of companies. As the developer and operator of the Capital Club brand, SCI has over 30 years’ experience in developing, launching and operating high-end private clubs in the Middle East, Europe and Asia. Its portfolio includes existing Clubs in Dubai, Bahrain and Nairobi, with upcoming initiatives planned in MENASA, Europe and the US, as part of a major five-year global roll out program.
About Promontory: http://www.promontory.com/ Promontory is a leading strategy, risk management and regulatory compliance consulting firm focusing primarily on the financial services industry. Led by its Founder and CEO, Eugene A. Ludwig, former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency, the firm is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and assists clients in more than 50 countries on six continents. Promontory’s reputation for excellence has fueled its growth since its launch in 2001. Promontory’s Dubai office covers the Middle East and Turkey. The main areas of focus include: Profitability Enhancement / Strategy; Governance & Controls; Risk Management; Anti-Money-Laundering / Counter Terrorism Financing Compliance; and Regulation.
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THE Governor-elect for Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has been challenged to ensure that ethnic rivalry becomes a thing of the past in the state.
A socio-political organization, the Organization for Ndokwa Unity (aka Ndokwa Unite) in a press statement made available to Journalists in Asaba stated that the election of Senator Okowa as Governor was divine and requested that ethnic rivalry which has affected the development of the state should be reduced to the barest minimum.
According to the release signed by Chairman and Secretary of the group, Mr. Steve Uweh and Dr Boniface Opia respectively, the victory of Senator Okowa as “founded in celestial affirmation is testimony to the plan of God for you and the Anioma people in particular, your election is proof of the desire of the good people of Delta State to be united in promoting equity, fairness and coexistence.”
“We call on the Governor-elect to use this divine mandate to mobilize all Deltans towards building the Delta State of our dreams, a state devoid of ethnic rivalries,” the Ndokwa Unite stated, adding, “your message of “Prosperity for All Deltans”, embodied in the SMART agenda places is a call on all to resolve and be ready to work in tandem to achieve the prosperity we desire,” the group stated, adding, “we at Ndokwa Unite have resolved to mobilize the peace loving and enterprising people of Ndokwa land in particular and Deltans in general to support your vision.”
While congratulating Senator Okowa as Governor-elect of Delta State, the Ndokwa Unite, added, “we pray God to give you the wisdom to lead the state into enduring prosperity, accept our felicitations.”
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Blank NEWS Onlinecan report that a vehicle belonging to the Embassy of Nigeria in Gabon was set ablaze on Sunday by rioters.
The vehicle, a Toyota mini jeep with matriculate number 097CD016 was completely burnt down on Sunday’s evening in Libreville, Gabon. The wife of the accountant of the Embassy of Nigeria, Mrs Ala James also escaped death during the attack.
According to our reporter, the capital city of Libreville, Gabon witnessed uproar on Sunday evening as riots broke out following the death of an opposition leader, Mr Andre Mba Obame. Immediately the death was announced, opposition supporters rampaging through the streets setting buildings and vehicles on fire.
Blank News Online gathered that many rioters took to the streets of Libreville and they started to vandalize properties and vehicles. The Embassy of Benin and government service cars were burnt in Sunday’s violence. The service vehicle of the Embassy of Nigeria was burnt in Sunday’s violence. Dozen other vehicles and private properties were also vandalized.
The accountant of Nigerian Embassy in Gabon, Mr Ala James who related to our reporters described the incidence as unfortunate as they attacked vehicles with diplomatic matriculations. According to him, his wife went out with the car. He said; “the car was parked along the road, but my wife was in a store nearby, and having noticed that the owner of the car was in the store, they attacked the store”, this is unfortunate.
The rioters got to the shop and were shouting and demanding to know the owner of the car with diplomatic matriculation. Having forced their way into the store everybody ran out and were dispersed in different directions. Mr Ala James said: “My wife escaped because they did know the owner of the car with diplomatic number”. Mr Ala James acknowledged the miracle of God that saved the life of his wife.
He affirms to our reporters that when the mobs spotted his wife running towards the car, she was pursued but she jumped into car parked by the roadside by a couple and she laid flat inside. The car has tinted glasses. The mobs arrived the scene and queried the couple about her whereabouts but the couple directed them towards an uncompleted building opposite. As the mobs dashed into the uncompleted building in search of her the couple speeds off. She was driven to the Embassy.
The tension of the violence was high in Libreville. Mr Andre Mba Obame died on Sunday in Yaounde, the capital of neighbouring Cameroon, aged 57. There was no cause of death mentioned in the statement from the National Union, the political party which he had joined in 2009. He had been frequently absent from the country for health reasons.
Mr Andre Mba Obame served as an adviser to longtime President Omar Bongo Ondimba, eventually rising to the post of minister of the interior. However, he broke with the ruling party to run for the presidency as an independent following Bongo Ondimba’s death in 2009.
*Gabon correspondent, Sunday Ikuesan
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The ambience, peace and the spirit of camaraderie that characterized the emergence of Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa as the Governor-Elect of Delta State is a manifestation of the fact that Deltans have entered a new threshold on the road to building a hub for development in Nigeria.Delta state PDP Governor-Elect, Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa
Indeed, the good people of the state are the real winners in April 11 poll for choosing the path of continuity and prosperity by voting the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). By electing Senator Okowa, people have opted to consolidate our march towards building a Delta State that will drive the economic and social development of our country. The outcome is an enduring affirmation of the people’s confidence in the developmental strides of His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON, Governor of Delta State and the ability of Dr. Okowa to move the state forward.
The challenge before all Deltans is to leverage on the new spirit of entrepreneurship encapsulated in the Delta Beyond Oil initiative Dr. Uduaghan to key into his successor’s drive of making the people prosperous. And the joy for all Deltans is the emergence of somebody with unprecedented acceptance and followership across all the diverse ethnic groups in the state.
For the political class, the victory of the Distinguished Senator demonstrates the fact that presenting the best candidate remains the key to connecting with the people and guaranteeing victory. We thank Dr. Uduaghan for driving the transparent process that led to the emergence of Dr. Okowa with a pan-Delta mandate that has united the people of Delta State.
We congratulate Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor-Elect of Delta State, on his resounding victory and call on the people to extend their usual goodwill and cooperation to him as he gears up to take the state to the next level.
*Contributed By CHIKE C. OGEAH Esq., Honourable Commissioner for Information, Delta State, Nigeria.
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The Delta State Council of the NUJ has congratulated the State Governor-Elect, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur David Okowa, on his victory at the just concluded gubernatorial election.
The Council described the poll as a bold endorsement of all Deltans, saying his votes cut across the nooks and crannies of Delta State. The Council also congratulated the Labour party candidate, Chief Ovedje Great Ogboru on his gallantry in conceding defeat.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Council, Comrade Norbert Chiazor and the Secretary, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, the Union saluted the patience, tenacity and doggedness exhibited by Dr Okowa all through the electioneering period and thank God almighty for crowning his efforts with victory.
The Council expressed confidence in the prosperity for all Deltans campaign slogan of the Governor-elect, adding that it had no doubt that based on the Senator’s glorious track records he would succeed in bringing excellence and unprecedented development across Delta State.
The Union said as a body, the Council pledged to contribute objectively to facilitate the success of Dr Okowa administration, stressing that the Council looked forward to a robust relationship with the Dr Okowa when he assume office on 29th May.
The Council attributed the finger of God in the events that brought about the victory of Dr Okowa and our prayed for God’s continuous guidance, grace of insight like that of King Solomon and might to accomplish his laudable programmes tagged SMART.
In a similar vein, Chairman, Delta State Council of National Union of Road Transport Union (NURTW), Chief Ifeanyi Obi has commended Deltans for their peaceful dispositions before, during and after the general elections.
Chief Obi stated that against the prediction of doomsday soothsayers, the general elections were peaceful especially in Delta State.
He disclosed that the acceptance of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa by Deltans through their votes was a strong indications that democracy has advanced to a stage where the people could speak with one voice.
According to him, “many people said the elections would be violent but, today, God has given us a peaceful man to be our Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, the elections were peaceful.”
“We congratulate Deltans for their courage, we in national union, congratulate our elected Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, we thank our Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, the man tried because, if not for his efforts, there would have been problems,” he said, adding that Deltans made the right choice by electing Senator Okowa as Governor.
He said, “as an individual, I know Senator Okowa as someone who will always work in the people’s interest, he is experienced and he will transform the state.”
Chief Obi also, commended members of the NURTW for their decorum throughout the electioneering period noting that no negative incident involving members of the drivers union was recorded especially, in Delta State.
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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally issued Certificate of Return to Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, Delta State Governor-Elect and winner of the April 11, 2015 Governorship election. Okowa contested under the auspices of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The Governor-Elect collected his Certificates of Return at a brief ceremony held at the INEC head office, Asaba and presided over by INEC National Commissioner, South/South, Dr Ishmael Igbani and Delta State Resident Electoral Commissioner ,Elder Aniedi Ikoiwak on Wednesday, April 15, 2015.
The ceremony also witnessed the presentation of Certificates of Return to the Deputy Governor-Elect, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, two Senators-Elect, Senator James Manager and Chief Peter Nwaoboshi, as well as 10 House of Representatives members, including Hon. Leo Ogor, Hon Ossai Ossai, Hon Daniel Reyenieju, Hon. Victor Nwokolo and Hon. Evelyn Obaro.
Others include first time Honorable members elect, Hon. Onyemaechi Mrakpor and Julius Pondi, amongst others.
In their respective remarks, the Delta REC Elder Ikoiwak and the National Commissioner South/South, Dr. Igbani, commended the political parties, security agencies, civil society groups, development partners and the Nigerian electorate for ensuring a free, fair, credible elections which had not only set the tone for subsequent elections, but has positioned Nigeria’s democracy status favourably on the global stage as the biggest black nation in the world.
They noted that everybody’s vote had counted and this had ensured a successful elections and started a democratic process in the country which would stand the test of time, adding that the victory achieved by the elected politicians was also a victory for all Nigerians as this was a clear indication to define their preparedness to provide the dividends of democracy to Nigerians.
Responding on behalf of the successfully elected candidates, the Delta State Governor-Elect Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, noted that with the success of the 2015 elections, Nigeria was gradually growing into the committee of elected democrats globally.
Senator Okowa affirmed that Delta State is a peaceful state and the dominance of the PDP in the state was once again underscored by the landslide victory achieved in securing all the 10 House of Representatives seats as well as the Two Senatorial seats so far declared, adding that Deltans are one big happy family and the PDP was poised to win the remaining Delta Central Senatorial seat, so long as the election would be conducted in a free and fair manner.
He then assured Deltans of his commitment and dedication to deliver on his mandate and pledged on behalf of all the elected members that they would do the right thing by providing the dividends of democracy to their respective constituencies and to Nigerians.
Highpoint of the event was the presentation of certificates to the Delta State Governor-Elect, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, his Deputy, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro and all the candidates-elect of the National Assembly from Delta State, by Dr. Ishmael Igbani
The event was witnessed by top PDP politicians, statesmen and other opinion leaders of the party including the father of the Governor-Elect Pa Okowa and his wife Mrs. Edith Okowa, the Delta PDP Chairman, Chief Edwin Uzor, Chief Godswill Obielum, Neworld Safugha, Capt. Pius Sinebe, Emmanuel Ogidi, Bashorun Askia Ogeh, Solomon Areyinka, Hon. Solomon Ihriakpata and Hon Passal Adigwe amongst others.
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Governor of oil-rich Delta state, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has congratulated the Governor-elect, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, saying that the victory at the polls has affirmed the performance and supremacy of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.
Delta state Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan
In a statement issued in Asaba yesterday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Sunny Ogefere, the Governor said that the success of the PDP was “a total victory for all Deltans”. He commended the members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the State as well as the electorate for renewing their faith and trust in the PDP to pilot the affairs of the State for the next four years. While thanking Deltans for their peaceful conduct during and after the elections, Governor Uduaghan assured that development strides in the state under Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa will be rapid, peaceful and progressive. Also, the Delta state PDP Chairman, Chief Edwin Uzor said that the resounding victory of the party at the April 11 polls was a testimony of the focussed leadership, peace initiative and development spread of democracy dividends by Governor Uduaghan’s administration.
Delta state PDP Chairman, Chief Edwin Uzor
He described the governor-elect Okowa as a detribalised Deltan, whose unwavering love for all Deltans has earned him the victory, adding that the party has once more proved its firm grip and political spread across the state. “This election victory clearly shows that PDP has performed exceedingly well in the state for the past 16 years. The party and the government have been carrying the people along and that is why the electorate voted massively for virtually all the candidates fielded by the party.” Chief Uzor, however dismissed claims by opposition parties that there were irregularities during the elections, saying that the European Union (EU) observers who monitored the election in the state have commended the PDP’s maturity and display of fairness during the exercise. He described the opposition’s claim as “foul cry of a drowning man” but advised them to sheath their swords and join hands with the incoming government to build on the legacy of the Uduaghan administration and move the state forward. A PDP stalwart in Oshimili North local government of Delta state, Owelle Ike Nwabuoku, described the election victory as proof of hardwork by members of the party and dedication of the people to effective and sustainable leadership. He assured the people of Oshimili North, Delta Norh and entire Delta state to expect greater spread of democracy dividends, saying that the victory of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa as Governor-elect, Barr. Peter Nwaoboshi as Senator-elect for Delta North Senatorial District and other PDP candidates across the state is victory for transformation beyond bounds. ***Read Blank NEWS Online for regular news updates…Also like us on Facebook & follow us on Twitter
Incumbent Governor of Delta state, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has assured that the Democratic transition from his administration to that of the Governor-elect, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, on May 29, 2015 will be smooth.Delta state Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan
While thanking Deltans for their peaceful conduct during and after the elections, Governor Uduaghan assured that development strides in the state under Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa will be rapid, peaceful and progressive.
He therefore called on all other political parties that contested the elections to accept defeat, embrace the winner and help to create an atmosphere of peace and development in Delta State.
“My appeal to all Deltans is that we should remain calm and peaceful as we look forward to more dividends of democracy from PDP administration in the state”, he stated.
He however enjoined parties and contestants that are aggrieved to channel their grievances lawfully to the appropriate quarters or approach the elections tribunals for redress rather than take the laws into their hands.
He further commended the members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the State as well as the electorate for renewing their faith and trust in the PDP to pilot the affairs of the State for the next fouryears.
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Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, the Delta State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship candidate has coasted home victory in the April 11, 2015 election in the state.VICTORY CELEBRATION: from left; Delta State PDP Chairman, Chief Edwin Uzor, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, Delta State Governor elect, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and his Wife, Dame Edith Okowa celebrating shortly after the governor elect was declared winner by INEC in Asaba
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.
Results collated from the 25 Local Government Areas released by the Delta State INEC and supervised by the state returning officer Prof. Bio Nyananyo, shows that the PDP and Senator Okowa equally won a landslide 21 Local Government Areas, namely: Ethiope West, Sapele, Oshimili South, Oshimili North, Bomadi, Isoko North, Isoko South, Okpe, Ika North East, Patani, Ika South, Ndokwa West, Burutu, Warri North, Ughelli South, Aniocha South, Ukwuani, Warri South West, Ndokwa East, and Aniocha North.
The Labour Party, LP, and Chief Great Ogboru captured Four (4) LGA’s namely: Udu, Uvwie, Ughelli North and Ethiope East respectively.
The All Progressive Congress, APC and its Candidate Olorogun O’tega Emerhor did not win any LGA.
Announcing the final results, the Delta State Governorship election returning officer, Prof. Bio Nyananyo, affirmed that the election was duly contested, the political parties fielded candidates and the candidates received valid votes, adding that Senator Ifeanyi Okowa had received the highest number of votes and satisfied the requirements as contained in the constitution and the electoral law to be declared winner of the election.
