The case is Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/01/2015. It is based on Section 131 of the Constitution which prescribes a minimum qualification for nomination to participate in Presidential Elections and Section 31 of the Electoral Act that stipulates all Presidential Candidates to depose an Affidavit in proof of compliance with constitutional requirement to be President of Nigeria.
The Claimant claims that General Buhari failed to prove that he has the minimum educational qualification to run for President. The Claimant further claims that General Buhari’s Affidavit that he possesses the West African School Leaving Certificate (WASC) are false, as not only did he not attach it to his Nomination Form, as compulsorily required, but his claim that the Certificates are in the custody of the Military has been denied by the Director of Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Olajide Laleye.
Mr. Okafor has requested the Federal High Court to disqualify General Buhari from contesting at the 2015 General Elections. This is provided by Section 31(5) of the Electoral Act that allows a person that has reasonable grounds to believe that false information has been given by a candidate in his Affidavit or document submitted to INEC, in support of his Nomination Form, to approach the Court for the candidate to be disqualified.
Certificate Saga: Lawyer Seeks Buhari's Disqualification
EPZ Ground-breaking: Itsekiris Give President Jonathan Feb. 14 Ultimatum
Despite President Goodluck Jonathan’s assurance that the ground breaking ceremony for the the $16 billion Delta Gas City project at Ogidigben and the Export Procesing Zone (EPZ) before 29th May, 2015, the Delta Coalition for Change (DCC) has threatened to vote for an opposition party if the EPZ ground-breaking was not performed before February 14.
The group wondered why President Jonathan appears to “be foot-dragging on issues directly affecting Itsekiri and other tribes in the Niger Delta,” insusting that if the EPZ ground-breaking was not performed before February 14, “Itsekiri will vote for Gen. Muhammadu Buhari in the February 14 poll.”
The group’s President, Young Piero, lamented that the EPZ ground-breaking had been postponed twice, adding that the President’s new position contradicted the earlier position of the Minister of Petroleum, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, whose claims bothered on “communal issues and land ownership.”
He emphasised that the reasons advanced were not tenable considering the successful performance of ground-breaking ceremonies for the NIMASA Dockyard and Shipyard, and the Nigerian Maritime University (NMU) which have large Ijaw interests.
The group therefore urged President Jonathan to “seize the opportunity of his planned campaign visit to Warri, February 4, to perform the EPZ ground-breaking if there is no obvious Ijaw agenda.”
$16bn Delta Gas City Project: "Groundbreaking Before May 29" -President Jonathan
President Jonathan, who explained that it will not be possible to do the ground breaking before the elections because the investors have to be around for the ceremony after the companies are duly notified, therefore mandated the Delta State Governor to work closely with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the Presidency to get a suitable date before 29th May, 2015.
The President stated this on Friday, January 23, 2015, when he paid an unscheduled visit to Warri, Delta State.
During the visit, he had a private audience with the President of the Christian Association of Nigera (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, and in company of the Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, paid a courtesy call on the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse II.
A Press statement issued by Delta State Information Commissioner, Barr. Chike Ogeah and made available to Blank NEWS Online, indicated that President Jonathan, also took the opportunity of the visit to explain the circumstances surrounding the aborted ground breaking for the Delta Gas City project and the Export Free Zone (EPZ).
The President had explained to the Olu in the presence of his Chiefs that he had to put off the ground breaking because of the fear of outbreak of violence after the ceremony which would have frightened investors.
According to the statement, “Mr President said it was not put off because he was afraid anything was going to happen to him. As a son of the Niger – Delta, he said he is aware that he can move freely in the zone without molestation.”
The Delta State Government however, expressed appreciation to President Jonathan for the personal visit to the Olu which also gave him the opportunity to explain to the royal father and the Itsekiri people issues around the ground breaking ceremony of the project.
While also commending the Olu’s understanding of Mr. President’s explanation and commitment to the project, the Delta State Government therefore appealed to groups and individuals to desist from politicizing the ground breaking ceremony, insisting that the state was committed to the success of the project. 
Amaechi Champions Free, Qualitative Education In Rivers *APC Hails Feat, As Pupils Resume
The party while reacting to the movement, on Thursday, of pupils into the new ultramodern 20-classroom block constructed by the Amaechi administration, described the event as yet another feather on the Governor’s cap.
“This is not only an epochal event but yet another testimony to the great love which Governor Amaechi has for Rivers children and his commitment to ensuring a rosy future for them. It has further consolidated the Governor’s position as the champion of free and qualitative education in modern Nigeria,” Rivers APC Chairman, Dr. Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, said in a statement issued Thursday in Port Harcourt. He described the commissioning of the edifice as being unprecedented in the country, noting that there are now 15 of such world-class primary schools scattered across the State.
“We rejoice with our dear children who would benefit from these facilitates, even as we congratulate our able Governor on this latest feat, which will help to ensure that every child in the State has easy access to education in line with the Education for All programme and the Millennium Development Goals vision of providing access to all children of school age by the year 2015,” Ikanya further said.
The one-storey Model Primary School located in the Elekahia area of Port Harcourt has a capacity to accommodate 600 pupils. One of the projects undertaken by Governor Amaechi after the declaration of a State of Emergency in the education sector in 2008, the 20-classroom block is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities like demonstration science laboratory, library, ICT, sick bays, reception class.
The introduction of the Science laboratory is in line with the new national curriculum which encourages that children aged four years and above should be exposed to science education early enough so as to have better understanding of science courses in the future.
The demonstration class is where the teacher demonstrates for the pupils what they are learning. It makes teaching and learning easier for the teacher and the pupils.
Campaigns: Uduaghan Deplores Attacks * Says Violence Unacceptable In Delta
Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has decried the spate of violent attacks being perpetrated by supporters of candidates against political opponents and warned against the menace in Delta State.
Uduaghan, handed down the warning on Thursday night at the State’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Fund Raising/ Dinner Ceremony in Asaba for the party’s governorship candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa
He threatened that his administration would not tolerate any form of violence during campaigns and elections in the state, stressing that President Goodluck Jonathan has signed a document with other Presidential Candidates to avoid anything that would cause violence before, during and after the general elections in the country.
“I condemn the act of violence that happened at the campaign rallies in Burutu and Patani few days back. That is not acceptable in Delta State, l am committed to peaceful campaign, peaceful elections and victory that will bring in Senator Okowa as the next governor of this state,” he said.
Dr. Uduaghan appealed to Party leaders to curtail the excesses of their followers/supporters, stating that anyone caught formenting trouble and violence in the state especially during campaigns and elections would be severely dealt with by security agencies.
He commended the PDP campaign team in the state for the good work they have done and called on all party elders and faithful to support the team in order to deliver Senator Okowa in the February election, describing the party flag bearer as a marketable candidate.
“We need to double our effort as a team, work harder and double our aspirations, we need all the support of our elders . Listen to them so as to be able to deliver our party’s candidate. He is qualified for the position, he has the credentials and is marketable, ” he said.
He persuaded all present at the occasion to join hands with the party to raise enough funds for the campaign of Senator Okowa and other PDP candidates but advised that the funds raised must be within the acceptable limits as of N1 Million as prescribed by the Electoral Act
In a brief Welcome Address, the Chairman of the PDP Campaign Organization, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire commended Governor Uduaghan for fostering unity in the party which has ensured peace and unity.
“The governor made it easy for PDP and Deltans to be united, he made political sacrifices to achieve this. The Uduaghan administration has built the spirit of partnership, this is for the benefit of the state,” he said.
Also Speaking, the Chairman of the Occasion and Chief Executive of Rainoil Petrolum Company, Mr. Gabriel Ugbechie, explained that the ceremony was put together to raise funds for the realization of the gubernatorial ambition of Senator Okowa.
He observed that Senator Okowa has been politically active in the state in the last 16 years and would be a worthy successor of Governor Uduaghan who has laid a solid foundation for the state.
Mr. Ugbechie encouraged all to play their part by supporting the candidate and give him the necessary back up he needed to emerge as the next governor of the state.
“Elections naturally don’t come easy, it takes a lot of resources, we need to put our resources where our wishes and desires are. it is necessary that we do so at this ceremony,” he said.
Hundreds of millions of naira were raised at the occasion after the Chairman of the occasion , Mr. Ugbechie and his friends had donated the sum of N100 Million Naira to kick start the donations.
EX-INTERNATIONALS TO CLASH IN WARRI FOR OKOWA
A local organising committee has been formed in respect of the clash between ex- Internationals in Edo/Delta and the rest of the country slated for 1st of February at the Warri Township Stadium with Chief Tony Okowa as the Chairman.
Others in the Committee for the match which is expected to parade the likes of Peter Rufai, Taribo West, Dan Amokachi, Mobil Okparaku,Ifeanyi Udeze, Uche Okechukwu are Stephen Cole as Director of Organisation, Onotoja Friday as Secretary, Victor Onogagamue as Adviser,Davidson Owumi in charge of Contact while Etu Moses is to head the Publicity Committee.
The essence of this high profile Football Match by Ex-Internationals of Delta/Edo and the rest of Nigeria which would be a high focal point of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) political rally is to showcase the Gubernatorial Candidate in Delta State, Dr (Senator) Ifeanyi Okowa as a complete Sports loving personality.
Those that have been confirmed apart from the ones listed above are Garba Lawal, Emmanuel Amunike, Jay Jay Okocha, Kingsley Obiekwu, Emeka Ezeugo, Alloy Agwu, Duke Udi, Kenneth Aigbe, Sam Sodje, Friday Christopher and Monday Aigbe.
Others are Victor Ikpeba, Peter Nieketen, Nduka Ugbade, Tosan Blackson, Wahab Haruna, Muobosa Bordericks, Sam Okpodu, Humphery Jebba, Edema Feludu, Lucky Sunday, Cole Joseph, Austin Popo and Tijani Babangida.
Super 6: Warri Wolves Storm Abuja Friday, Jan. 22
Warri Wolves Football Club will arrive Abuja on Friday for the Super Six with 35 players and 10 Officials with the aim of doing better than last year where the team came second, losing only to Enyimba after thrashing Kano Pillars and Bayelsa United.
In a statement made available to journalists on Wednesday by the Media Manager of the Club, Etu Moses, the players made up of the old ones and new ones are in high spirits and cannot afford to fail.
The players are even happy that they will be playing with the U-20 and 23 as that will stretch them and prepare them for the CAF Continental assignment which comes up in February in Burkina Faso.
Etu also disclosed that the team will leave Abuja after the tournament for Shagamu and Ibadan where they hope to play some friendly matches all in a bid to correct the lapses noticed in the Super Six in Abuja.
“We are leaving Warri for Abuja on Friday with 35 players and 10 Officials for the Super Six. Our players are well relaxed having played some local teams here but they are very excited that they will playing against the under 20 and under 23 as they believe that these matches will prepare them well for the task ahead.”
Elections: Delta Speaker Says Oshimili South Will Record Highest Votes
The speaker gave the assurance when he received more than 300 members of the Oshimili South Progressive Union (OSPUN) in his constituency office in Asaba recently.
Hon Onwusanya pointed out that the area registered more than 120,000 voters and will mobilize the people to ensure that the area recorded 100 percent of the votes, advising the members to begin immediately to canvass for votes in all the nooks and crannies of the local government.
The speaker who represents Oshimili South Constituency in the state House of Assembly, averred that the emergence of Dr Ifeanyi Okowa as gubernatorial candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was a blessing to the people of Delta North, and enjoined OSPUN members to work hard to ensure that they record high votes to stand the chance of reaping in the forthcoming administration.
He commended the leaders of OSPUN for mobilizing eligible voters from all the wards in the local government area and assured them of his support to enable them work to achieve results.
The Coordinator of OSPUN, Comrade Emeka Asili, in his comment said the group was impressed by the performance of the speaker and had mobilized to ensure victory for PDP and Hon Onwusanya.
He said hundreds of members of the group had voter cards which is a prerequisite for registration as member.
In his contribution, the Senior Special Assistant to the Speaker, Hon Eloka Nwanze, urged the group to reach out to all registered voters so that the local government will get high votes.
ELECTIONS: Youths Should Resist Violence -Says Isoh
As the February, 2015 general elections draws closer, the President General of Ibusa Youth Council (IYC), Comrade Alfred Isoh has challenged youths to engage in activities that will promote peaceful co-existence in the country.
Speaking during the inauguration of the new executive of the umbrella body of the youth organization by the Obuzor of Ibusa, HRM Obi (Prof.) Louis Nwaoboshi at Ibusa, Oshimili North local government area of Delta State, Comrade Isoh stated that Nigerian youths should not be willing tools to those who wants to perpetuate evil.
According to him, Nigeria will be more peaceful if the youths resists been used by elders who uses them to actualize their selfish interests, assuring that his coming on board is the beginning of a new dawn in Ibusa community as the youths would be proactive towards pursuing peaceful programmes that will promote developmental activities in Ibusa and Nigeria in general.
“When we engages in destructive actions, we will face the effect in the future, so, as youths, we will resist any action that will lead to disruption of peaceful activities, especially in Ibusa, we have a revered traditional ruler, the Obuzor, we also have elders and as youths we must respect our elders and leaders but never to be used for issues that are not progressive and peaceful,” Comrade Isoh said.
He thanked the Obuzor of Ibusa for his leadership qualities which has made Ibusa to be relevant in the state and beyond.
Comrade Isoh pledged to work with government at all levels, the traditional institution and all stakeholders to ensure that Ibusa gets what it deserves as part of the Delta State capital territory.
He also emphasized that all the youths bodies of Ibusa at home and in the diaspora would be united to ensure unity of purpose in the development of Ibusa community and thanked all those who have contributed to the development of the town.
The Obuzor, Prof. Nwaoboshi urged the youths not to be unruly in their activities and that they should have respect for constituted authorities.
Members of the IYC include, Comrades Alfred Isoh (President-General), Ifeanyi Asiodu (Vice-President), Stephen Mozea (Treasurer),
Comrade Okolichi Nwanze, Youth President of Ogbe-Owele quarters and President, Umuezeagu quarters, Comrade Ofili Osademe described Comrade Alfred as intelligent and the type of leader Ibusa deserves, stating that it was good that all the youth bodies of different quarters of the community were been carried along.
Show Solidarity For Okowa By Collecting PVC, One Delta Urges Prospective Voters
Ahead of February general elections, a political pressure group, One Delta For Good Governance, Unity and Justice (ODFGGUJ) has urged Deltans to show their solidarity for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate by collecting the permanent voters cards.
The group in a statement signed by its coordinator, Hon. Nnamdi Ezeeh and the publicity secretary, Hon. Victor Odili thanked Deltans for their massive support for Senator Okowa gubernatorial interests and disclosed that they have embarked on door to door awareness campaign for Deltans to collect their pvc.
According to the group, there was no doubt that Senator Okowa would emerge as the next Governor of Delta State but, “it is important that he wins with a wide margin for the world to know the strength of the PDP in our dear state.”
While noting that the ODFGGUJ has membership in Nigeria and other parts of the world due to the emergence of Senator Okowa as the gubernatorial candidate of the PDP, the organization stated that the acceptability of Senator Okowa goes beyond party affiliations.
“We have embarked on door to door mobilization of our people for Senator Okowa not just to win but to win with a wide margin, we are mobilizing every man and woman, all the youths who are above eighteen years of age to collect their voters cards,” the said, adding, “it is sad when our Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan said, more than 700, 000 voters cards are yet to be collected, if that is the case, then we have serious work to do before the end of January.”
They added, “for Okowa to emerge as our Governor and for us to give the winning vote to President Goodluck Jonathan, every Deltan who has registered for the election must cast his or her votes, their votes must be counted because this is an important election.”
“One Delta is a grassroots political group with over 260, 000 dedicated members across the state, we are working for Senator Ifeanyi Okowa to be the next governor of Delta State, all our members have collected their cards and are mobilizing other Deltans to do so,” the group reiterated in the statement.
Delta PDP Campaign: Isoko Nation Adopts Okowa
Okowa stated this during his ongoing campaign rally in Ozoro, Isoko North local government area and Oleh. Isoko South respectively.
He reaffirmed his commitment to initiate people oriented policies by ensuring the protection of the peoples interest as enshrined in his five-point agenda.
The elated PDP flag bearer assured that his strategic plan to evenly develop the state was borne out of his strong desire to better the lives of all Deltans, through youth employment, peace building, agricultural reforms, relevant health and education policies as well as urban renewal.
The overwhelming turn-out of PDP supporters in Isoko North and Isoko South was appraised and described as a pointer to the fact that President Goodluck Jonathan, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and other PDP candidates would have smooth sailing during the forthcoming polls.
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Guber Polls: Okowa Reels Out Manifesto To Media Practitioners, TUC *Pledges Youth Employment, Wealth Creation
Okowa, at an interactive session with media practitioners on Monday, January 19, 2015, in Asaba, Delta state, stressed on his plans to create strategic wealth and generate employment for the teeming youths in state.
He disclosed that interacting with the media became imperative because it helps in moulding the opinion of the people through positive information dissemination processes, adding that the President Goodluk Jonathan administration has, through the Freedom of Information (FOI) law, strengthened the press freedom in his human rights programmes.
“We have been campaigning in a bid to get the people’s confidence being the only one political party that gets in touch with the people. The PDP has been a tested party and I have been consistent with the people.”
While saying that the ruling party has done a lot for the citizenry since 1999, he promised to continue to consolidate on the gains of the past administrations.
Senator Okowa, who assured that his administration would fully concentrate on a strategic wealth creation and generation of employment for the teeming youths in Delta state, said that although the issue of unemployment has come to the fore and as a global phenomenon, it could be tackled.
He lauded the transformation goals of Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s administration, especially in the area of peace and security, roads construction, better schools, free health care delivery services, micro-credit schemes among others.
In bid to further diversify the state’s economy, in the area of Agriculture, Senator Okowa said that plans are underway to strengthen the Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) as well as encourage commercial Agriculture and development of Agro-based industries in the state.
He said there were also plans to accelerate Industrialization by wooing manufacturers to invest in key economic sectors of the state, adding that industrial estates would be establishment in the three senatorial districts of the state, to reduce the cost of doing business and in a bid to boost the state’s economy.
On Health, he promised to sustain the ongoing Free maternal and child health care system and embrace the health insurance scheme, while he said his administration will initiate the building of more housing units in the urban renewal programmes.
The PDP flag-bearer also met with the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Delta state, led by Comrade Mike Arinze, where he enunciated on his five key development agenda for effective governance of Delta state.
2015: Rivers APC Vows To Win All Senatorial Seats •Says Abe, Uchendu, Amachree Unbeatable
The Rivers State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has told the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the State to get ready to surrender the only senatorial seat in its possession.
PDP currently has one of the three Senators from the State in the person of Senator George Sekibo but Rivers APC in a statement issued Monday in Port Harcourt said it is determined to take that one as well during the February 14 National Assembly elections.
“PDP does not deserve the senatorial seat presently in its possession. In any case, Senator Sekibo has failed to represent Rivers East well enough at the Senate, so he should prepare to surrender it on February 14,” Rivers APC said in the statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Davies Ibiamu Ikanya.
The party described its candidate, Hon. Andrew Uchendu, as being by far better than Sekibo, saying: “Uchendu is a politician’s politician and an outstanding three-time member of the Federal House of Representatives. He is poised to retire Senator George Sekibo during the forthcoming National Assembly polls.”
Rivers APC declared that incumbent Senator Magnus Abe will easily retain his seat as Senator representing Rivers South-East while Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Otelemaba Amachree, will have no difficulty winning the Rivers West seat currently occupied by APC’s Senator Wilson Ake, who is about to serve out the two terms zoned to his area.
“Senator Abe and Senators-in-waiting Uchendu and Amachree are the best the State can boast at the moment with regard to the Senate. They are unbeatable and we trust the electorates to do the right thing by voting massively for them on February 14,” Rivers APC said.
Below is the profile of each of the APC senatorial candidates:
Distinguished Senator Magnus Ngei Abe: Currently the Senator representing the South-East Senatorial Zone, Senator Magnus Abe is a lawyer by profession, an administrator par excellence, a political strategist of repute, an information expert and the best Commissioner for Information ever in Rivers State. Abe entered politics in 1999 when he was elected into the Rivers State House of Assembly, serving as Minority Leader. In 2003 he defected to PDP, and from 2003 to 2007 he was Commissioner of Information in the administration of Governor Peter Odili. When Governor Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi entered office in May 2007, Abe was appointed Secretary to the Rivers State Government. He resigned to contest for the position of Senator for Rivers South-East, which he won. He is Chairman of the Petroleum Downstream Committee and member of the National Population & Identity Card Committee in the Senate.
Hon. Andrew Igbonule Uchendu: A 1992 recipient of the Federal Government National Productivity Merit Award, the highest honour that can be conferred on any Worker in the Public Service in Nigeria, Hon. Uchendu was in 1994 drafted into politics by the Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organization. He represented Emohua, Ikwerre and Obio/Akpor LGAs at the 1994/1995 National Constitutional Conference. One of the best members of the House of Representatives, Hon. Uchendu has moved six crucial motions, namely, Ogbakiri crises, Rehabilitation of the East/West Expressway, the Establishment of the Oloibiri Oil Museum, Youth Unemployment and Youth Restiveness in Nigeria, Insecurity in the Niger Delta and the Invasion of the Rivers State House of Assembly by Hoodlums. He has in addition, sponsored three fundamental Bills in the House. They are the Standard Tendering Procedure for the Award of Contracts in the Public Service (popularly known as Due Process), the National Youth Development Programme and the Amendment to the Petroleum Technology Development Fund Act.
Rt. Hon. Otelemaba Daniel Amachree: He is not only currently Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly but also the longest serving member in any State House of Assembly in Nigeria, having served his constituency a record four times, from 1999 till date. Rt. Hon. Amachree’s contribution to the nationally acclaimed stability of the Rivers State House of Assembly since 1999 is legendary. He has at various times served as Chairman, House Committee on Commerce and Industry, Chairman, Committee on House Services, Chairman, House Committee on Local Government Chieftaincy and Community Affairs as well as Chairman, House Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, in which capacity he initiated the epoch-making Port Harcourt International Oil and Gas Conference, which third edition was recently organised by the House with unprecedented multi-national participation. Rt. Hon. Amachree has also been elected Chairman, South-South Speakers Conference in recognition of his leadership acumen.
With this calibre of representations, the Rivers State can be assured that their feelings and interests will be highly protected and guided jealously.
700,000 Voters Cards Await Collection In Delta *Uduaghan Begs Deltans
Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta state, Nigeria
Addressing a mammoth crowd of Deltans who turned out for PDP campaign rally at Akwukwu-Igbo, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State at the weekend, Governor Uduaghan observed that large turnout of Deltans at PDP organized rallies was good, but, asserted that such support could only be transformed to victory for the PDP if the people have their PVCs.
While commending the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for decentralizing the collection points of the PVCs, Dr Uduaghan disclosed that about 1.2 million PVCs have been distributed in Delta State.
“About seven hundred thousand permanent voters cards have not been collected in Delta State, please, it is good for us to attend rallies to show our strength, and it is also very important for us to vote and the only way we can vote for our party’s candidates is by having our PVCs,” the Governor said, reiterating, “we don’t want our party to lose one vote in Delta, so, collect your PVCs to enable you vote.”
He added, “we must vote for our President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, he has done a lot within four years that people are comparing what he did within four years with what others did within eight years, imagine another four years for him in the office, Nigeria will be transformed.
“For our governorship candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, he will work and I am sure he will do what you want him to do for you.”
Governor Uduaghan also called for votes for the Delta North Senatorial candidate of the PDP, Barr. Peter Nwaoboshi, votes for the candidate of House of Representatives Aniocha/Oshimili Federal constituency, Hon. Amaechi Mrakpor and the candidate of the party for House of Assembly, Oshimili North constituency, Hon. Pat Ajudua.
Senator Okowa assured Deltans that there will be revolution in the agricultural sector, rapid development of the state by consolidating on the achievements of Governor Uduaghan’s administration while introducing new programmes that will uplift the standard of living of Deltans.
Chairman of the party in the state, Chief Edwin Uzor, chairman of the PDP campaign organization in the state, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire, PDP chieftain, Chief Peter Okocha and others who spoke at the rally urged the people to vote for only candidates of the PDP.
2015 Polls: Norsemen Int'l Adopts Jonathan, Okowa, Other PDP Candidates
It also endorsed the candidature of Barr. Peter Nwaoboshi for Senate in the Delta North Senatorial District as well as other PDP flag bearers in the forthcoming elections.
Members of the Norsemen Club International, drawn from Delta North Senatorial District of Delta state, at an enlarged meeting in Asaba on Sunday, January 18, 2015, vowed to mobilize support and vote for all the PDP candidates contesting in the forthcoming February polls.
The group, made up of politicians, businessmen, legal luminaries, media professionals among others, said their determination to fully support the ruling PDP was as a result of the resounding socio-economic and political development in almost all spheres of human endeavours in Delta state and Nigeria.
Addressing the meeting, PDP gubernatorial coordinator, Oshimili North, Hon. Innocent Esewezie; Secretary to the media committee, Okowa Campaign Organization, Barr. Eugene Uzum; the Governor, Norsemen Club, Delta state, Asiekwu Bassey and Comrade Adeh Onyeka Patrick respectively noted that the Norsemen Club International, would work for the success of the candidates.
They insisted that their primary responsibility, during the general elections, was to sensitize and mobilize the people to deliver all PDP candidates.
They further asserted that, despite criticisms, the President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration has yielded unprecedented development and massive transformation in various sectors of the nation’s economy, adding that the choice of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa as PDP governorship candidate in Delta state, was a drive by the majority of Deltans towards attaining effective governance and growth across the state.
“We are seeking the re-election of our President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan on February 14 and the election of our candidate, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa. We will work towards the victory of candidates of the party in the 2015 general elections.” they said.
The Norsemen Club International, Delta North Chapter, however urged the state governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan to sustain his commitment towards a peaceful transition process.
Why PDP Will Defeat LP, APC In Delta State -Olori Magege
Speaking to journalists in Asaba, Magege averred that the PDP Government has done very well in Delta State and will continue with the development strides of the past administrations.
He noted that the PDP administration had brought Peace and Security, Human Capital Development and Economic Growth to Delta State and should be returned at all levels in the next general election.
Magege explained that the PDP candidates in Delta State are grass-root politicians who are capable of delivering the dividends of democracy to the people. He called on all Deltans to vote enmase for President Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (GCFR), Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and all other PDP candidates in Delta State.
“That the PDP has been in power in Delta State for nearly 16 years attests to the fact that Deltans see the party as a vehicle for sustainable development. The people of Delta State are at peace with PDP knowing that under its umbrella, equity, employment and access to cheap funds to finance their businesses are guaranteed,” Magege stated.
He said that in Okowa, the party has a tested and expressed candidate who who will hit the ground running. “For over 20 years, Okowa has devoted his life to service right from the local government level through the state where he served as commissioner in a couple of ministries as well as being the secretary to the state government to the federal level where is a serving senator. He understands the challenges facing our people and the way forward. There is no nobody in the opposition that comes close to Okowa in experience and passion for service,” Magege stated.
2015 Polls: Uduaghan, Okowa Task Traditional Rulers On Voters' Education
Governor Uduaghan made the call on Friday, January 16, 2015 while addressing traditional rulers council of Oshimili North local Government Area of Delta State when he led PDP candidates for the February, 2015 general elections on a courtesy visit at the Palace of Obi of Akwukwu-Igbo, HRM Obi David Azuka.
According to Dr Uduaghan, traditional rulers should take it as a priority for all their subjects who are of voting age to exercise their franchise.
“The instrument to enable your people is the permanent voters cards, it is good that INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission) has decentralized the collection centre for the PCV, tell your people to go and collect their cards to enable them vote,” he said, stating that there was the need for more enlightenment campaign to enable the voters know the ballot boxes to cast their votes so as to avoid void votes.
He informed the traditional rulers that President Goodluck Jonathan is the Presidential candidate of the PDP, stating that he deserves to be re-elected because, “he has held the country together despite the challenges.”
The gubernatorial candidate, Senator Okowa on his part also urged traditional rulers to help in enlightening their people on the need to exercise their franchise by voting during the elections.
While calling on the traditional rulers to thank Governor Uduaghan for making it possible for them to emerge as candidates on the PDP platform, the gubernatorial candidate assured the traditional rulers that he will consolidate on the successes of the Uduaghan’s administration and introduce new policies and programmes that will better the lives of the people.
Some of the traditional rulers who were present included the Ugoani of Okpanam, Comrade Ogbolu; Obi of Akwukwu-Igbo Kingdom, Obi Dr. David Azuka; Obuzo of Ibusa, Obi (Prof) Louis Nwoboshi; Obi of Atuma, Obi Chukwuka Ogbubo; representatives of Ogbelani of Illah and the Regent of Ebu.
Work Towards Peaceful Elections To Deliver Okowa -Says Oyemike
Chief Oyemike made the call while addressing members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at Abbi, Ndokwa West local government of Delta State.
According to him, the opposition political parties due to desperation may engage in actions that are capable of causing breach of peace, and emphasized that there was clear evidence that the PDP remains the only party to beat in the elections especially in Delta State.
He described the emergence of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa as the governorship candidate of the PDP in Delta State as a blessing for the PDP stating, “Senator Okowa is our man for Governor in Delta State, we are happy to have such a person as our party candidate because, he is a grassroots man who is acceptable to all Deltans.”
“There is no opposition in Delta State because of the person of Senator Okowa, we should be careful and engage in only peaceful actions to enable us succeed in making Senator Okowa to be our governor in May, we should also watch activities of the opposition, tell your people to collect their voters card and let them keep it to vote for the party with the umbrella,” Chief Oyemike said, adding, “I called this meeting of PDP members because, Abbi is for PDP, Ndokwa West is PDP and there is no other party in Delta State apart from the PDP, Senator Okowa knows us and will work for all of us.”
One of the leaders of the party in the area, Mr Ernest Okenmo said, “Abbi is one, despite having two Wards, Ward 8 and 9, we are united for Senator Okowa and we thank our leader, Chief Oyemike for calling this meeting to brief us on the way forward.”
The Chairman of Ward 8 in the area, Chief Timothy Ujene at the occasion, asserted, “Dr Okowa has no opposition, he will get all the votes in Abbi, we are happy to have somebody from Delta North for the first time producing the PDP governorship candidate, he is our own,” while the Ward 9 Chairman, Mr Augustine Azukwuweku said all notable politicians in the state were rallying their supports for Senator Okowa.
Others who spoke at the meeting includes Chief Josiah Eke, Chief Angelina Eni, Chief Ntugba, among others assured that the people were mobilizing people for Senator Okowa across party lines.
Why President Jonathan Must Be Returned -Uduaghan * Explains Choice Of Okowa's Running Mate
Governor Uduaghan, addressing a mammoth crowd that turned out for the Delta State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) rally at Koko, Warri North local Government Area maintained that the President deserved another four years in office because he has a listening ear to the plight of the Niger Delta region.
“The biggest fish in this 2015 election is President Goodluck Jonathan who is re-contesting again as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he is not just a son of this area, it is significant that we re-elect him because he understands our problems, when we cry to him, he listens.”
“It is our responsibility to vote for him (President Goodluck Jonathan), we did it before and we shall do it again,” he said.
Dr. Uduaghan asserted that all the candidates of the PDP in the February, 2015 general elections deserved to be elected because they are masses-oriented in their thoughts and actions.
Speaking on the choice of Barr. Kingsley Otuaro as running mate to the PDP Governorship candidate, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Uduaghan explained that the decision was a strategic move aimed at consolidating on the peace in the Warri area.
According to him, “we have had our fair share of conflicts in this area, we have tried to manage the peace and security in this area, it has not been easy, nobody should take the peace and security we are enjoying for granted because a lot of persons contributed to it. We have a lot of youths who are today living peacefully together.
“To continue with that peaceful process is not going to be easy but I believe if people in this area continue to be active in politics, we can continue to maintain that peace and even take it higher.
“There is a young man who was involved in ensuring that we actively and seriously maintain peace in this area. I am saying this because I can give testimonies of his activities for us in achieving peace in this area. He was a community leader, he was involved in most of the activities we carried out for us to have peace…and today, our governorship candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has chosen him to be his running mate and that is the person of Barr. Kingsley Otuaro.”
He added, “for me as an individual, the duo of Dr Okowa and Barr. Otuaro as Governor and Deputy Governor is a divine blessing for us because even as we are enjoying the peace, there are also things that can cause insecurity, fortunately, he (Barr. Otuaro) is an evangelist and he is praying, and through his experience in achieving peace in this area, Delta State will continue to enjoy peace.
“This is because, the truth is that when there is sneezing in this area, not only Delta State will shake but, the whole of Nigeria will be affected. We are going to ensure and give him the responsibility to ensure that there is no sneezing in this area.”
Governor Uduaghan introduced President Jonathan as the PDP Presidential candidate, Senator Okowa as the Governorship candidate in the state, Senator James Manager as the Senatorial candidate for Delta South, Hon. Daniel Reyenieju as the House of Representatives candidate for Warri Federal Constituency and Hon. Michael Diden as the House of Assembly candidate for Warri North local government constituency.
Senator Okowa, at the occasion thanked Governor Uduaghan for encouraging him and also commended the people for believing in him.
He promised to embark on programmes that will better the lives of the people of the state, noting that the PDP Government has transformed Delta since it assumed power in 1999.
Chairman of the party in the state, Chief Edwin Uzor urged Deltans to vote massively for PDP Candidates, stating that there is no other political party that has better ideaology and has empowered the people through the delivery of dividends of democracy to the people like the PDP.
NURTW Urges FG To Reduce Fuel Price To Reflect Int'l Trend
CHAIRMAN, Delta State Council of National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Comrade Ifeanyi Obi has urged the Federal Government to reduce the price of petroleum products to reflect the fall in oil price in the international market.
According to Comrade Obi, when the price of oil was on the increase at the international market, the increase in fuel price was justifiable and as such, the Federal Government should also, reduce the cost of fuel from the current N97 per litre.
The driver’s union Chairman also urged President Goodluck Jonathan to fix petroleum refineries in the country for Nigerians to have full benefits of having crude oil.
“There is complain of hardship in the country because of crash in price of oil in the international market, so, the Federal Government should also reduce the cost of fuel,” Comrade Obi said, adding, “if the price of fuel is reduced, we will reduce transport fares and cost of goods and services will reduce in the country.”
He continued, “the Federal Government should make our refineries to work at full capacity, let them construct new ones so that Nigeria will not import fuel and the cost of fuel will reduce in the country.”
Comrade Obi observed that President Jonathan is performing especially in the transport sector which he stated was the most important sector of the economy listing the construction of roads and making the railway lines functional as laudable.
“We thank our Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan too for doing a lot for us, he gave us good roads, he has given us vehicles and we believe Dr Ifeanyi Okowa will do the same when he takes over as the Governor of the state,” Comrade Obi added.
He urged members of NURTW to be vigilant and ensure that they report any suspicious movement to security agencies as a way of contributing to a peaceful election in Delta State, stating “everybody should be peaceful during the elections in the interest of the state and Nigeria.”
The NURTW Chairman used the occasion to commend members of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) for been proactive during the yuletide season, noting that there were no traffic gridlock especially, at the Niger bridge.
2015 Armed Forces Day: Uduaghan, Prominent Deltans Lay Wreath
Governor Uduaghan also inspected a guard of honour mounted by the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Airforce, members of the Nigerian Legion, among others at the cenotaph.
Other dignitaries who laid wreath at the occasion, included, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Peter Onwusanya, the Chief Judge, Justice Abiodun Smith, Commandants of different security agencies in the state, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and chairman, Nigerian Legion.
Also, there was 21 one gun salute in honour of the fallen heroes while pigeons are released to signal peace.
January 15 of every year is set aside by the Nigerian government to honour soldiers who died in wars for peaceful co-existence in the world.
INEC Decentralizes Collection Of PVCs In Delta
As Nigeria gears up for the general elections that begin on February 14, 2015, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the decentralization of the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) from local government to ward levels. In effect, registered voters will be able to collect their PVCs from the wards where they registered.
While logistics are being put in place for the collection of PVCs at ward level to be actualized, Deltans and residents of Delta State are enjoined to proceed to the local government headquarters where they registered to collect their PVCs armed with their temporary cards.
Information made available by INEC showed that many registered voters in Delta State are yet to collect their Permanent Voter Cards without which they cannot vote in the coming elections. We, therefore, urge registered voters to endeavour to collect their PVCs at the local government areas where they registered and at the ward level when INEC must have put logistics in place.
Local government chairmen are hereby enjoined to ensure that PVCs are distributed in their domain with minimum hitch. There is limited time for the collection of the PVCs before the elections begin.
Remember, your PVC is your ticket to exercise your civic responsibility of voting in the coming elections. Temporary voter cards will not be accepted. Collect your PVC and keep it safely.
Delta Speaker Assures Votes For PDP, Receives Party’s Flag
The Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Hon Peter Onwusanya, disclosed this shortly after he was presented with the party’s flag and confirmed as the PDP candidate for Oshimili South Constituency, Delta State, during the flag off of PDP gubernatorial campaign at Oghara, Ethiope West local government area, Tuesday.
He explained that President Goodluck Jonathan and Dr Ifeanyi Okowa will get 100 percent of their votes as President and Governor respectively, disclosing that the people had been mobilized and are set for the elections.
According to him, the PDP has demonstrated capability in the socio-economic and political development of the state and Nigeria in general, stressing that the people of Oshimili South had benefited, especially through his various empowerment programmes.
Hon Onwusanya said that his initial mandate as a legislator was well utilized which consequently prompted the renewed mandate by the people and assured that the second tenure will witness further unprecedented development and empowerment.
He called on Deltans to reach out to their neighbours and convince them to vote PDP in all the elections as the party will do more for Nigerians.
Among those who spoke at the occasion was the governorship candidate, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, the Deputy Governor, Professor Amos Utuama, the state party chairman, Chief Edwin Uzor and South South PDP Chairman, Dr Cairo Ojougbo.
Campaign: Uduaghan Expresses Confidence In Winning Streak Of PDP In Delta
Flags were presented to the senatorial candidates, those for House of Representatives, including candidates for House of Assembly at the Oghara Township Stadium venue of the ceremony which was well attended.
Governor Uduaghan stated that the PDP has a history of victory in the state and its track record of project delivery in the state and the country has given the party campaign materials.
The Governor who presented the PDP gubernatorial candidate for the elections, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa to Ethiope East local Government Area traditional rulers’ council at the Palace of the Ovie of Oghara shortly before moving to the Oghara Township Stadium, said, “we have always won elections and we will win again because the PDP has a lot of things on ground to campaign with.”
Senator Okowa at the occasion, said he will consolidate on the achievements of Governor Uduaghan’s administration and that of former Governor James Ibori.
He assured the traditional rulers that when elected, his administration would encourage government partnership with them for the development of the state.
The Ovie of Oghara, HRH Oyibo Etsemitan commended the PDP for its unity and commended Governor Uduaghan for providing good leadership to the party.
Ovie of Mosogar, HRH Omene , Urie 1 specifically said the traditional rulers have endorsed the candidature of Senator Okowa stating, “we are moving away from politics of ethnicity, we are moving to the politics of development and we know that Senator Okowa will ensure development when he becomes the governor.”
At the campaign rally at the stadium, Senator Okowa assured Deltans that his administration will continue to build bridges of unity in the state, asserting, “we will remain as one united Delta.”
He added that his administration will develop the agricultural sector, accelerate industrialization of the state, restructure the education sector and improve on the programmes of Governor Uduaghan’s administration.
The PDP Chairman in the state, Chief Edwin Uzor who presented flags to the candidates observed that the PDP has done a lot for Nigerians, especially in Delta State and urged Deltans to vote for the PDP to enable the party continue with its development stride.
Others who spoke at the rally include the state’s Deputy Governor, Prof. Amos Utuama (SAN), Senator Okowa’s running mate, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, the South South Chairman of the PDP, Dr Cairo Ojougbo, the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Dr Steve Oru, the Chairman of the PDP campaign committee, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire, the Chairman, Presidential Campaign contact committee for Delta State, Chief Diepreye Alamieyesegha, among others, urged Deltans to vote massively for the PDP in the interest of the nation and the state in particular.
2015 Polls: Delta PDP Flags-Off Campaign Tuesday 13
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State will flag off campaigns for the 2015 general elections on Tuesday, January 13 with the presentation of flags to its flag bearers in gubernatorial, House of Representatives and House of Assembly elections.
A statement signed by Dr. Festus Okubor, Chairman, Media and Publicity Committee of Delta state PDP Campaign Organisation and made available to Blank NEWS Online on Monday, January 12, 2015 indicates that the ceremony will hold at Oghara Township Stadium in Ethiope West Local Government Area of the state.
Okubor noted that Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, the party’s gubernatorial candidate, will lead the cast along side three Senatorial candidates, 10 House of Representatives aspirants and 29 state House of Assembly flag bearers.
Tuesday’s rally marks the beginning of a state-wide campaign programme that will take the train to all the 25 local government headquarters in the state.
According to the campaign rally itinerary issued by the media and publicity committee of the PDP Campaign Organisation in Delta State, the rally will be rounded off on February 4 with a grand finale and national rally in Asaba, the state capital.
2015 Polls: Rivers APC Assures Buhari, Peterside Of Victory •Hails Buhari's Stand On Corruption, Insecurity
Rivers State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has assured the party’s presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), of a landslide victory in the State during the February 14, 2015 presidential election. The party gave the assurance while congratulating Buhari on the successful flagging off of his campaign last Tuesday in the State capital, Port Harcourt.
“It was a thing of honour for us to have the privilege to host the flag-off of General Buhari’s presidential campaign and we wish to assure him that both Rivers State and the entire Niger Delta region are solidly behind him,” Rivers APC Chairman, Dr. Davies Ibiamu Ikanya, stated. He said that “with the 65,000 APC supporters that thronged the Adokiye Amiesimaka Sports Complex to witness the historical event, Buhari and the APC leadership should not bother anymore about Rivers State as we are very convinced of not only winning the State but winning it very convincingly. The hatred which the misruling Federal Government in the hands of the evil PDP has against our State is enough to ensure that the party is totally disgraced during the forthcoming February 2015 elections.”
Rivers APC applauded General Buhari for his uncompromising stand against corruption and insecurity in the country, which he made clear during his campaign launch. “With the looting of our common patrimony with impunity currently going on in the administration of President Jonathan, we are very convinced that, knowing the antecedents of General Buhari, he is very capable of decisively tackling corruption, which has become perhaps the greatest problem facing our nation at the moment. Monumental corruption has given rise to many other problems such as spiraling unemployment, underdevelopment, bad roads, lack of power and many other facilities that would have been provided to improve the lives of Nigerians,” Rivers APC said in a statement signed by Ikanya and issued in Port Harcourt.
The party agreed with General Buhari that providing security should be the second priority of his administration after it is sworn-in on May 29. It lamented that no “Nigerian can boast of sleeping with two eyes closed these days because of insecurity occasioned by the incompetence of the present administration of Goodluck Jonathan.” The party expressed confidence with the incoming Buhari administration curbing corruption and insecurity, Nigeria will in the nearest future take her rightful place in the comity of nations.
Rivers APC in the statement also congratulated its governorship candidate in the State, Dr. Dakuku Adol Peterside, for the formal endorsement of his candidature by the APC national leadership through the hand-over of the party’s flag to him during Tuesday’s presidential campaign in Port Harcourt. “As we did to General Buhari, we similarly wish to tell Dr. Dakuku Peterside to rest assured as we shall do everything according to the laws of the land to ensure a landslide victory for him during the February 28, 2015 governorship election. Dr. Peterside has no equal among the candidates presenting themselves for consideration by the Rivers electorate and we trust the good people of the State to go for the best,” Rivers APC said.
2015 Election: Edo PDP, APC Mount Pressure On Oarhe To Decamp
There are strong indications that the All Progressives Congress (A.P.C) and Peoples Democratic Party (P.D.P) in Edo state is working out various means to woo, Mr. Oarhe Dickson as there are mounted pressure for him to decamp and join their party ahead 2015 general election.
Oarhe, however, declined knowledge of whatever such moves by the both political parties reaffirming his strong membership and believed in his party (Social Democratic Party, S.D.P) philosophy and his determination to remain a loyal party faithful.
Oarhe who emerged consensus candidate of Social Democratic Party (S.D.P) at her primary election held 29, November, 2014 for the House of Representatives, Owan federal constituency, Edo state, we gathered is presently call by his party to step down his ambition for another party man, a decision he is finding it difficult to accept but may be ready to work with.
It was learnt that the A.P.C and P.D.P is on the likelihood to key into this logjam because the S.D.P is a strong force to contend with in the Owan Federal Constituency going by existing rotational formula that favours the turn of an Owan West candidacy to present the next House of Representatives member for Owan Federal Constituency at the national assembly.
A telephone call put across to him, Oarhe said, “it is clear that S.D.P will sweep out A.P.C and pothole the umbrella of P.D.P to win all elective positions across Edo North based on our people oriented socio-welfare manifestoes and credibility of candidate we present hence my determination to remain a loyal party faithful of S.D.P is unshakable.”
ARMED FORCES DAY: Nigeria Must Remain United -Gov Uduaghan Insists
Uduaghan made the call yesterday at an inter-denominational thanksgiving service as part of activities for the year, 2015 Armed Forces Remembrance Day held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peters (Anglican Communion), Asaba.
According to him, it was important for Nigerians to shun actions that are capable of dividing Nigerians stating that peaceful co-existence should not be compromised on the altar of selfish ego.
“Terrorism is not a Nigerian affair, it is a worldwide phenomenon, we need to support our security agencies in the fight against terrorism,” he said, adding, “by the grace of God, this nation will remain one indivisible entity.”
He said there are fears of election violence in the country disclosing that his administration has mapped preventive measures to curb such violence in the state.
“Next month elections will come, there has been a lot of security concern for the elections; there have been prayers everywhere to prevent violence before, during and after the elections. As a government, we will not sit and watch it occur, we have put in place preventive programmes so that our people will know that nobody need to die in an election.”
“We will mobilise our religious leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups and elders to educate our people to minimize election violence and reduce the work of security agencies”, he added.
He called for freedom of candidates to campaign wherever they want during the electioneering period and decried reports of threats to stop some people from campaigning in certain places.
The Governor noted that the armed forces was doing a lot for Nigerians and commended them for their efforts to keep Nigeria as one as well as safe and secured for lives and property.
“We appreciate the work of our security agencies, especially their sacrifices to keep the nation as one,” he said.
Earlier, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Asaba, Rt. Rev. Justus Mogekwu in a sermon decried the tendency by some people to Islamise Nigeria at all cost, saying the activities of the Boko Haram Islamic sect was to “conquer the North, then foist their religion on the South.”
He prayed for peace and unity in Nigeria and called for support for the families of the fallen heroes.
Okowa's Thanksgiving: Uduaghan Re-Iterates Call for Reconciliation Among PDP Members
The Governor made the call Sunday, January 11, 2015 at the thanksgiving service held in honour of the PDP gubernatorial candidate in Delta State, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa at St. Philip`s Anglican Church, Asaba.
According to him, it was important that the PDP win in the general elections for the sake of the country and in particular, Delta State but, reiterated that effective reconciliation was important among members of the PDP.
“A lot of reconciliation has to be done in the party at the national level, at the state level, local government level, even at the unit level, I want to appeal for open heart to enable us reconcile and forgive one another,” Governor Uduaghan stated.
While observing that there is a lot of internal wrangling within the party at the national and state levels, the Governor said, “if you don’t forgive, you are in prison, when you forgive, you release yourself from that prison. You must forgive even a repeated offender, an unrepentant offender, and even people who believe you have offended them, we need to forgive one another so that God will forgive us all.”
He urged the people to be committed to PDP winning in the elections and commended Senator Okowa for giving thanks to God for receiving the PDP flag as the governorship candidate.
“What is important is winning the main election, and one step to win the main election is this thanksgiving service,” the Governor asserted.
Fielding questions from journalists later,Senator Okowa thanked God for his emergence as the governorship candidate and urged Deltans not to relent in their support for his aspiration.
Earlier, Venerable Felix Okonkwo in a sermon urged Christians to always forgive those who offend them, stating: “Great people forgive those who offend them, but, cowards seek vengeance.”
He described Senator Okowa as a God-fearing person and urged him to always be prayerful.
Prayers were offered at the occasion for a peaceful election in Nigeria and Delta State in particular.
Delta Assembly Strike Brouhaha: Trouble In Speaker Onwusanya's Kitty
PASAN is calling for the urgent replacement of the Clerk of the House, Lyna Ocholor and Secretary of the House of Assembly Service Commission, Mrs. Isioma Nwabuoku for allegedly denying staff of their welfare packages.
Members of the Association, has therefore sealed the Assembly premises ahead of the House resumption of plenary on January 20, 2015 after its Yuletide break.
But an earlier statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr. Patrick Nwanze, on behalf of the Speaker appealed to the striking Assembly workers to resume, claiming that Management has met sufficient part of their demand.
The statement made available to Blank NEWS Online on Wednesday, January 07, 2015 further described the call for removal of the Clerk as ill motivated with external influence.
“The outfit allowance which is only outstanding will be paid a few days time. The call for removal of Clerk is ill motivated and indicate external forces influencing the workers. There is no need for the strike now. The workers have enjoyed benefits now than before. Be assured that management will continue to give priority to workers welfare,” the statement said.
When Blank NEWS Online visited the state House of Assembly, located on Nnebisi road in ASABA on Thursday, January 08, 2015, aggrieved members of PASAN had set up a mock ‘Parliament’ at the entrance as a means of peaceful protest, just as the official vehicle of the Clerk had its tyres deflated.
The Public Relations Officer and Vice Chairman of PASAN, Comrades Afure Galaxy and Felix Egbejave, expressed disappointment over alleged claims by Speaker Onwusanya that the House has met 99 percent of the workers’ demands, describing the claim as pointless.
They said that staff welfare have been grossly neglected for over 10 years, alleging that monies appropriated for them have often times been diverted to other personal use by the leadership and management of the Delta state House of Assembly.
Meanwhile, a 15-point Communique dated 5th January, 2015 and signed by Comrades Mc Cartney Obrotu (Chairman) and Emmanuel Osubor (Organising Secretary) respectively on behalf of PASAN, insists that until their demands are met, the legislators would not be allowed to resume sitting.
Some of the demands listed in the Communiqué include payment of outstanding claims, allowances and imprests; training and retraining of staff; provision of departmental and Committee vehicles as well as unhindered assess to car and housing loans by staff among others.
According to aggrieved PASAN members, the strike action became a last resort after the leadership and management of the Delta state House of Assembly deliberately reneged in meeting with their demands.
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Okagbare's Sun Newspapers Award, Testimony Of Uduaghan's Feat In Human Devt.
Speaking when management of The Sun Newspapers presented a letter of Sports Person of the Year award to Blessing Okagbare (now Mrs Ighoteguonor) in Asaba Wednesday, January 07, 2015, Governor Uduaghan stated that his administration invested in the athlete and other Deltans, observing that such investments were not only a blessing to Delta State, Nigeria but to Africans.
According to him, the success recorded by Blessing Okagbare at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland was a great feat for Nigeria after years of not winning medals at the Commonwealth Games.
He asserted that it was a thing of pride to see the world stand still for Nigeria’s national anthem as a result of the laurels won by Blessing Okagbare and Ese Brume who are Deltans.
Uduaghan stated that the greatest asset of the state is in human capital development and his administration has encouraged Deltans to excel in their chosen fields.
“Blessing is a product of our Human Capital Development scheme and we believe that the state is not just rich in oil alone but is richer in human talent and we should be able to develop whatever potentials any Deltan exhibits be it in sports or entertainment,” Governor Uduaghan said.
Governor Uduaghan expressed hope that Blessing Okagbare would also, do Nigeria proud at the 2016 Olympic games.
Presenting the letter of award to Blessing Okagbare, the General Editor, Sun Newspaper, Mrs. Funke Egbemode commended Governor Uduaghan on his administration’s stride in human capital development of which Blessing Okagbare was a beneficiary.
She commended the state government’s effort to transform the sporting, health, agriculture and other sectors of the economy.
Blessing Okagbare dedicated the award and series of awards she has received to Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan in particular, Deltans and Nigerians.
She also, thanked the management of The Sun Newspapers for the recognition as assured that she would continue to do her best for the state and the country.
2015 Polls: Delta PDP Inaugurates Campaign C'tee *As Uduaghan Assures Victory For Candidates
Governor Uduaghan made the call Wednesday, January 07, 2015, in Asaba during the inauguration of the Delta State PDP Campaign Committee.
The Chairman of the PDP in the state, Chief Edwin Uzor performed the inauguration which took place at Government House, Asaba with the governorship candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and members of the Committee in attendance.
He reminded members of the party that time for celebration of the party primaries was over and it was time to prepare for the main elections, stressing that members of the party should embark on a door to door campaign to sensitize Deltans on the need to vote comprehensively for PDP candidates.
According to him, “the celebration of the primaries is over, what is important is the main election, put what happened at the primaries behind us, come together as a family to deliver our candidates at the 2015 elections because we have to give 100 percent support and maximum vote to President Jonathan and Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa”
“This is not time for negative media propaganda, use your talents to deliver our candidates, it is going to be a door to door campaign, we have the structure on the ground, we have a lot of achievements both at federal and state levels to market to our people, let all our leaders who are active at both wards and unit levels be mobilized to embark on this campaign”, Dr. Uduaghan added.
The governor informed the gathering that the state PDP campaign would kick off on Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at the Oghara Township Stadium while the National Campaign train which will include President Goodluck Jonathan would berth in the state on February 4, 2015.
Also Speaking, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa urged members of the campaign committee to take their assignment seriously and mobilize all Deltans in the nooks and crannies of the state to vote for the party.
He stressed that “elections are close, we must campaign vigorously, we will have rallies to let our people know that we are on ground, door to door campaign is imperative so as to sensitize the electorates and bring out the votes”.
The gubernatorial candidate harped on the unity and peace of the state and urged the party faithful to embark on issue based campaign.
He commended the transformation agenda of the President Jonathan’s administration and its level of tolerance and the state governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan for working to achieve success for the party at both national and state levels and called for cooperation of all to achieve this goal.
Earlier, the state PDP Chairman, Chief Edwin Uzor said that the inauguration ceremony would enable the committee start working to ensure victory for all PDP candidates at the polls and called for the support of all PDP faithful in ensuring that the committee achieve its goal.
Call To Quit: Crux Of The Matter Between Fr. Mbaka & Dr. Jonathan
On the eve of New Year, December 31, 2014, Renowned Catholic Priest, Reverend Father Ejike Mbaka of Catholic Adoration Centre in Enugu, Enugu State, stunned all Catholic faithful and Nigerians with his attack on the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan.
Mbaka, who regretted that the ‘goodluck’ has turned to ‘badluck’ for Nigeria, had called on President Jonathan to quit office to enable Nigerians experience desirable change..
Below is the full transcript of his New Year message:
“In the year 2014, we had a lot of bloodshed in this country. People were dying like rats without anybody asking about them. This country suffered a lot of blood experience. Many of us witnessed that people were in tears. Just like the ancient world, the year 2014, the 4 in it had the queen in it, which had to do with death. Our leaders failedus with reckless abandon and nobody asked them question.
“The so-called democracy was a hidden autocracy. It was deceptive and questionable quack miler. Nigerians suffered hunger unnecessarily. We heard about oil subsidy being removed and added, whatever be(is) their jargon, nobody understood them. We heard about minimum wage, the civil servant suffered, the minimum wage was not paid and we were all calm. In 2015, Nigerians will not be calm again (shouts of AMEN!).
“We need change. Whatever it will be, let it be. This is my golden message to my beloved country. What actually is happening (Ogini nne me?). The multitude of our youths, the quality young men, quality young women, brilliants youths but nobody has plans for any of you. Our so-called leaders should come and apologize. In 2015, it shall not continue like that (shouts of AMEN).
“By the grace of God, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we are announcing spiritually, change! 2015 should not be a year of any hooligan maneuvering to hijack power. This is our New Year message. Listen, when you go home, tell anybody you see that from the oracle of the Holy Spirit, we are announcing change (AMEN). Can somebody help me to shout change (shouts of change by the congregation) in Jesus holy name.
“Look at what it’s like, as I’m yet to bless your families, bless your industries, bless your destinies. Come 2015, your plans are blessed, your vision are blessed, your locomotive society are blessed. I cover this year with the blood of Jesus. I seal this year with the blood of Jesus.
My message is in two branches (folds). Number one branch, the theme of this first message to my fellow countrymen is from good luck to bad luck. Once upon a time, the whole countrymen were crying for a leader who will help us move forward with our economy, have an authentic democracy, give our unemployed youths jobs, enable our power to be steady, who will industrialize Nigerians, who will encourage mass education and agriculturalize Nigeria. Having in view that oil will soon drop, give us security in a maximum level. By the grace of God, there emerged a Goodluck, all of us were happy, the Goodluck met Yar’ Adua and Yar’ Adua died. May the Holy Spirit help me as I utter this message, I know many will misunderstand it, but it will stand the test of time and you will know I’m speaking the truth.
“The Goodluck met Yar’Adua and Yar’Adua died. Before you know it, the Goodluck met our oil and the oil had a bad luck and poured away, before we knew it, the Goodluck met our naira, our naira had a bad luck. Where are we going? What is the fate of this country? Shall we continue like this, we need change (shout of change from the congregation).
“As I’m speaking with you, most of our civil servants did not celebrate their Christmas. The Christmas season that should be a Goodluck time became a bad luck time for our Nigerians forgetting that very soon, from 3rd January, the children will go back to school and the parent are going to pay school fees. From where? Are they going to use their urine to pay? (Shout of NO from the congregation). But where is the good water even if they are going to use their urine. Are they going to use their stool to pay the school fees of their children? (Shout of NO from the congregation). You have to eat well to defecate.
“What is the fate of our children? Tears fill my eyes when I see our young graduates hoping and walking our streets. What is the meaning of kidnapping? Kidnapping is the grandson of unemployment. Boko Haram is a grand great child of the same unemployment, mass looting, and poor governance.
“I’m not saying that Goodluck is a bad man. He is a good man. But he cannot lead Nigeria. As things stand right now, from the oracle of the Holy Spirit, Jonathan should honourably resign quietly and let Nigeria be. The destiny of Nigeria is greater than Goodluck Jonathan. The Goodluck in Jonathan has become a bad luck to Nigerians. Whatever brought him in should send him back and let Nigeria be.
“By this time in few months to come, many are going to lose their jobs and there is no alternative. During election, Jonathan will answer Azikiwe, Ebele and become an Igbo man and after election, the Ebele, the Azikiwe and Goodluck will vanish from his identity. Who is fooling who actually?
“Look at our federal roads, we are not even asking for new ones, roads built by Buhari and Babangidas — the so called Hausa people— cannot be maintained. Follow Enugu here to Onitsha, children born some years ago do not know that there was a lane along the other side of Isiagwu and we are all saying continue. The continuity of Jonathan means disaster to Nigeria.
“We need change. May the Holy Spirit help me to vocalize what he has shown to me while I was waiting on him to give me a message for my people? I’m worried about the future of you my children. Go to school, go to school, mention any government school functioning in Nigeria now? Our schools are dilapidated. Nigeria is like an egg about to break in the hands of Jonathan Goodluck and we cannot allow it to happen. It is so unfortunate that pastors are becoming vultures around the president. Pastors are becoming hawks around him, eating the porridge of Jacob and selling their prophetic rights. And anointing is being merchandised in Aso Rock, carrying our nairas, turning it to dollars and carrying it in jets moving out of the country.
“Listen, this is the voice on the pulpit: all these men of God, who are telling Jonathan to continue because they are benefitting one thing or the other, you should question your apostolic, prophetic anointing. What the Bible say is that Samson did not know that the Holy Spirit had left him. Let them watch if the Holy Spirit is still in them.
“Listen, they will begin to tell us this one is a Christian the other one is a Muslim. I don’t believe in that. Who is a Christian more than Judas? Did Judas not betray Jesus? Judas was not just a Christian, he was not just a mere apostle, he was a super apostle like a cardinal but at a time he messed up and Bible says his office, let another take. That is the normal thing.
“The way Nigeria is going right now, the office of Goodluck Jonathan let another take. I’m not campaigning for anybody. I’m filled with tears over what is happening in Nigeria. Some of us who have nongovernmental organisations funding charity, I know what I’m suffering. The more they are looting our resources, the more they are rending you unemployed, the more some of us suffer the more. If I have been paying for the school fees of 500 people, it would now jack up to 3000, or more.
“What the government should do, individuals are struggling to achieve. When there is no road, no power, all this fake promises… where is the power? That Onitsha Bridge, has it now been built? No. After 6 years, and Goodluck has what it takes to do whatever. He surrounded himself with hooligans. By the time he comes down, he won’t have anybody to work with. He played himself into the hands of hooligans.
“My interest is about the wellness of this country. Nigeria must survive what we are passing through by the help of God. The same God who saved us from Ebola will save us from this bad luck season (shouts of AMEN from the congregation).
“Look at it, there was a time there was an argument about pension fund – such billions. Who is talking about it now? Billions and we were hearing it… from excess crude oil money, where is the impact of the excess crude oil money? Now from oil boom, it has met a bad luck; it’s now oil doom. If my father will be my leader and my siblings will all die, let a stranger be my leader and let my family be. All I’m trying to tell you is that we have not entered into any covenant with anybody.
“Last time, the First Lady came here. We are not partisan; we welcomed her. We did a spiritual drama here. Lifted four birds to fly up, the main one that should fly up refused to go. I did everything possible and that one is the healthiest of them all but refused to fly and the spirit of God said, don’t disturb him.
“When God rejected Saul, David took over. Let me tell you, in the history of Nigeria, we have never experience bloodshed as we have in the time of Goodluck. If Goodluck means bloodshed for Nigerians are you waiting until your own blood is shed? (shouts of No from the congregation).
“We need change, however God will do it. Look at the insecurity if you go to the northern part of Nigeria.
“My fellow priest, my fellow pastors, don’t just stand up to attack this message, because you have mouth. Think well before you put your mouth, the voice is beyond your own contribution. Listen, are you waiting for your own church to be bombed before you speak out? If you go to Maiduguri, some parishes have closed down. Go to Potiskum. People no longer go to church on Sundays in many parts of this country. Now imagine a scenario where a president cannot fight a simple insurgence. This is not an external country attack o. It is not like another country invaded Nigeria. It is an intra distraction. And many of us are claiming that it was because Buhari said that he was going to make Jonathan’s government ungovernable. Listen, let’s assume Buhari said something like that, even though it’s not Buhari who said it. So if you are the president and somebody say something like that, will you not arrest such a person”?
Army Dumps Its "General" *Denies Being In Custody Of Buhari’s Original Certificates
Recall that Buhari and other candidates are undergoing screening by INEC Verification Committee and the electoral body is yet to display Buhari’s academic qualifications, like that of other candidates at the headquarters of INEC in Abuja.
Despite Buhari’s claims that all his academic credentials were with the Military Board, the Army have denied keeping the certificates of serving or retired officer or soldier.
In the affidavit, which he deposed to at a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Buhari had insisted that all his certificates were with the Secretary, Military Board.
The affidavit dated November 24, 2014, was stamped and received by INEC on December 18 2014.
“I am the above-named person and deponent to this affidavit therein. All my academic qualifications documents as filled in my presidential form, President APC/001/2015, are currently with the Secretary, Military Board as of the time of presenting this affidavit. The affidavit is made in good faith and for record purpose,” Buhari had stated.
But the Military, according to dependale sources has said: ‘’The Army can not keep anybody’s original certificate because it is the personal property of the owner.’’
“The original certificate of any officer or soldier is only needed at the point of entry into the service either as a cadet officer entering the Nigerian Defence Academy, or the recruitment officers when interviewing recruits to be sent to the depot for training. That is so, because they are needed to verify what were in the photocopies supplied by them or from the necessary examining bodies.”
AWARD: SILVERBIRD GROUP NAMES UDUAGHAN "GOVERNOR OF YEAR 2014"
His sterling performance in health signposted by the free medical care for children and the elderly as well as the free maternal care for pregnant women, and the micro-credit scheme where over 111,000 Deltans have been empowered to set up their own businesses were highlighted as part of the programmes Nigerians who traditionally votes for the winner elected Uduaghan the winner.
According to press release issued by the Silverbird Group, owners of Silverbird Television network and Rhythm FM, the governor’s massive investment in infrastructure and his success at restoring and sustaining peace and security in the state won the admiration of Nigerians who voted for him.
The award, according to Mr. Pius Mordi, Special Assistant to Delta state Commissioner for Information, was decided through popular vote open to all Nigerians and is the latest in the critical appraisal of Uduaghan’s administration by the media.
The award comes on the heels of the three he won in the final weeks of 2014.
They include the BusinessDay Governor of the Year award in health category in its Good Governance and State Competitiveness Award, the Pilot newspaper Governor of the Year award, the BEN Television award in micro-credit and job creation and Africa Independent Television (AIT) award as Governor of the Year.
Speaking on the latest award, Chike C. Ogeah, Delta State Commissioner for Information, said it is a just reward for a man that has devoted his energy to creating a new national mentality on development through his Delta Beyond Oil initiative.
“While others concentrate on projects that would have immediate impact, Uduaghan looks at the big picture with an eye on the future. Without losing sight of the need for short term projects, he has given Deltans a new belief in their ability to venture into profitable businesses through the Delta State Micro-Credit Scheme.
“Many of the beneficiaries have become employers of labour and with the N500 million recently pumped into the scheme through the collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria, more ventures will be set up in various parts of the state. Young budding entrepreneurs are very upbeat about this because Dr. Uduaghan has paid the interest on the entire amount upfront. In effect, beneficiaries will get the loan interest-free”, Ogeah stated.
The commissioner said that having superintended a crisis and rancour-free primary, in the state, Uduaghan will continue to work assiduously in delivering the dividends of democracy to Deltans until the final day of his tenure.
Past winners of the prestigious Silverbird Man of the Year Award which is now in its 10th year, include late Professor Dora Akunyili, former Minister of Information; Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, one-time Minister of the Federal Capital Territory; Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, former chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC); Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State, Dr. Mike Adenuga, chairman of Globacom and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy.
Others are Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State, Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi and former CBN Govermor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, who is now the Emir of Kano.
New Year: Delta Speaker Advises Opposition On Governace
The Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Right Hon Peter Onwusanya, who gave the advise in his New Year message, expressed the hope that the year 2015 will enhance the political and economic fortunes of Nigeria and Nigerians.
“The position of the opposition in the current political and economic situation is becoming unpatriotic. Every Nigerian must see co-operate to find solution. Those who are consistently opposed to government policies without preferring solution are not helping the country. Therefore we must all appreciate the need to support the Government so that Nigerians would smile”, he stated.
Hon Onwusanya who represents Oshinmili South Constituency, commended the people of Delta State for their peaceful disposition that had paved the way for the administration at both the state and federal levels to excel.
While saying that Delta State has remained one of the peaceful states in the federation, he attributed the situation to the co-operation of the residents who were law abiding and ready to support government programmes and policies.
He said the state House of Assembly will cash-in on the peoples co-operation to ensure that laws are made for the betterment of the populace, stressing that it is the belief of the lawmakers that Deltans would reap marginally the benefits of democracy.
The Speaker urged Nigerians to live in hope because 2015 will bring better things and prove cynics wrong as contrary to negative predictions, the country will overcome the subsisting challenges.
OKOWA'S CANDIDACY: Ndokwa West APC Members Defect To PDP
According to him, his defection was to fully support Senator Okowa who is the only candidate from Delta North contesting for the governorship position of Delta State.
“I urge every Ndokwa and Delta North person to call APC people to order, they should respect the principles of equity and justice,” he said, adding, “it is clear that the Ndokwa and by extension Delta North governorship quest is most popular and widely and overwhelmingly supported within and outside Delta State.”
Also, Ndokwa National Youth Vanguard (NNYV) at the occasion described the emergence of Senator Okowa was a dream come true.
According to the National President of NNYV and Secretary, Hon. Ozegbe Adoh and Nwabueze Mbanugo respectively, “we are celebrating the first man in Delta North to fly the flag of the winning and the biggest party in Africa, PDP, his achievements and empowerment in different offices he has occupied is a clear testament of the new Delta State.”
The group observed that the defection of Odanike and his followers was a good omen for the victory of the PDP.
Chairman of the PDP in the area, Hon. Dan Ossai, Chief Theophilus Adoh, Ward 1 Chairman, Dr Iwegbue, Chief Nduku who is a former leader of APC in the area, Hon. Azuka Azaka, member representing Ndokwa West Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, among others who spoke at the occasion welcomed the decampees and assured them that the PDP was large enough to accomodate everybody.
2014: Year of Police Milestones In United Arab Emirates
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates –Dec.29, 2014 >>>>>>>>
Blank NEWS Online can authoritatively report that the Ministry of Interior in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has dedicated its local and international civilized milestones to the Emirates and its wise leadership, as well as to the local public from all segments.
According to the ministry, these achievements were made possible primarily as a result of the leadership’s support and the society’s precious confidence and cooperation with the MoI’s security and service entities.
Following are some of the most significant milestones achieved by the ministry across its journey towards more excellence and development, in line with the progress that the whole country is witnessing across all fields:
Excellence Festival
The Ministry of Interior won the lion’s share of awards and medals at the Sheikh Khalifa Government Excellence Program. And for this great achievement, the ministry held a celebration called ‘Excellence Festival.’ Lt. General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, described this milestone as the result of mutual cooperation and solid belief in the mission of UAE’s citizens who work at the Ministry of Interior.
The Ministry of Interior also received the global Stevie Award, one of the most prestigious awards internationally in the field of creativity, corporate excellence and international businesses; the Platinum Accreditation Certification for Institutional Suggestions System; the international “Excellence Through People” award (“ETP”); three international awards within the Summit Marketing Effectiveness Awards competition; and the Distinguished Air Wing Department award from the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) in the United States of America (USA). The ministry has also succeeded in entering the Hall of Fame of the Palladium Group for its excellence in the competition of Balanced Scorecard (BSC) and Strategic Alignment applications, becoming the second ministry to enter the Hall of Fame internationally following the Ministry of Interior in South Korea. The MoI is the first to receive such recognition on both Arab and regional levels.
Strategic Plan
Lt. General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior launched the MoI Strategic Plan for 2014-2016, in addition to the ministry’s strategy on its social media websites. This strategic orientation reflects the vision of the MoI to seeing the UAE as one of the safest, most secured countries in the world.
Security Milestones
The Ministry of Interior succeeded in solving the mystery of most crimes took place this year. It was able to arrest these crimes’ perpetrators and bring them to justice. In crimes related to drug trafficking, the ministry slapped the traders of these poisons as it succeeded in foiling the trafficking and promoting of 4.5 million drug pills. Carried out by a professional team from the Abu Dhabi police (ADP), the Dubai Police and the Ministry of Interior, the operation was called ‘Wooden Doors.’
The Abu Dhabi Police also arrested the ‘Niqab’ woman, a suspect in Al Reem and Corniche crimes. ADP was able to identify the woman in less than 24 hours and arrest her in less than 48 hours. The police also arrested dozens of violators, from thieves and forgers to assaulters, reckless people and fraudsters, saving the society from their evil. It also presented the most significant criminal methods to the public, in order to immune and educate the society.
Environmental Milestones
The Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters achieved record levels of energy consumption saving, with 6% decrees in the second quarter 2014, thanks to the restless efforts of its departments and employees. These efforts aim to protect natural resources. ADP is one of the first official entities to take the initiative in implementing the resolution of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council to transform 25% of total government vehicles to run on natural gas. The Transport and Workshops Department at the Directorate General of Finance and Services succeeded in transforming a number of police vehicle to run on natural gas.
E-Milestones
The Ministry of Interior succeeded in implementing the eye scan system to protect the society against wanted people and their evil. Since its launch in 2003, the system detected 388,399 cases of deported people who tried to renter the country. The total number of deportations as of now is 1,421,656. In 2014, the Ministry of Interior provided 320 e-services via its website www.moi.gov.ae and 30 smartphone services (UAE MOI) via all platforms, including Apple, Android, Blackberry and Windows.
Media Milestones
The Security Media Department reflected the message of the Ministry of Interior on transparency with the public via different medial outlet. The department introduced the public to the services and the achievements of the ministry, as they represent partners in protecting the security and safety gains. As the ministry’s media arm, the department prepared and executed 507,948 different media works this year, including TV, radio and printed material, in addition to media and awareness messages via social media websites in Arabic, English and Urdu.
Abu Dhabi: Police Traffic Directorate Warns of Transporting Gas Cylinders in Unlicensed Vehicles
The Traffic and Patrols Directorate at Abu Dhabi Police warned motorists of the dangers associated with transporting gas cylinders in private or unlicensed vehicles that are not labeled with warning signs. Random gas transport poses a serious threat to other road users and may cause a disaster and tragic human losses as the cylinders could explode in the event of a collision.
The directorate also stressed the importance of abiding by the rules of safe gas transport, in accordance with the approved regulations; adding that vehicles should be of a specific color; have an open roof and be labeled with warning signs that alert others that the vehicle is carrying flammable materials. A fire extinguisher should also be readily available inside these vehicles and must be checked regularly to ensure it is in proper working condition.
The directorate announced that it will be intensifying control to detect any unauthorized transport of gas cylinders in private or unlicensed vehicles. The directorate also called upon companies and individuals not to deal with such irresponsible and greedy vendors who violate the approved regulations of safe gas cylinder transport who endanger their lives and the lives and safety of others for monetary gains.
To this end, the directorate recently held a coordinative meeting with a number of government authorities in Al Ain. During the meeting, chaired by Major Matar Mohamed Al Muhairi, Acting Chief of Al Ain Traffic Section, attendees discussed safe transport standards of gas cylinders, as well as the illegal trade of cooking gas cylinders in private vehicles, which may cause tragic accidents. Representatives of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and the Civil Defense took part in the meeting.
The meeting also tackled the means of boosting safety of road users and other topics related to safe transportation of gas cylinders; in addition to ways to curb illegal transport and trade of gas cylinders in unlicensed or non-conforming vehicles. Attendees agreed on the need to intensify traffic control and monitoring and to enforce severe punishment on those who put the lives of road users at risk.
Weigh-In Allowance: Uduaghan Approves Payment For Delta Media Workers
The governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has approved the payment of weigh-in allowance for staff of parastatals in the Ministry of Information, including the Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) and The Pointer newspaper.
The approval effectively meets the key demand of the three unions in the Ministry of Information who had embarked on industrial action to press for the payment of the allowance. Earlier on Monday, December 22, 2014, the Commissioner for Information, Chike Ogeah Esq, alongside the Head of Service, Mr. Patrick Origho, had met the leaders of the three unions – the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Radio, Television and Theatre Workers’ Union (RATTAWU) and the National Union of Printing, Publishing and Paper Products Workers (NUPPPROW) – where they were assured of the governor’s readiness to approve the payment of the allowance.
Uduaghan, who was out of the state when the unions began their industrial action on December 18 promptly approved the payment of the allowance on returning to Asaba. In effect, Delta State becomes the first state to approve the payment of the weigh-in allowance. Until now, only workers at the federal level had been earning the allowance.
Reacting to the approval for the payment of the allowance by the governor, Ogeah said the unions are expected to immediately call off their action in line with the agreement reached at the Monday meeting.
Ogeah expressed appreciation of the government with the unions for the maturity displayed in the meeting and urged them to redouble their commitment to increasing productivity. He said the upgrade of the two arms of the DBS with world class broadcast equipment in readiness for the digitization deadline will be completed within two weeks and called on the workers to brace up for the new challenges.
