Kaduna State governor, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, has withdrawn the N176.4 billion 2013 budget proposal earlier submitted to the state assembly by the late Governor Patrick Yakowa who died in a helicopter crash in the Niger Delta on December 15, few days after presenting the budget.

Blank NEWS Online learnt that Governor Yero decided to withdraw the proposed budget after a close review of the Yakowa budget.

A government source in Kaduna state revealed that “The move has triggered another round of cold war between politicians across religious and ethnic lines in the already disunited state. “Those who were close to Yakowa are saying that Governor Yero is trying to rubbish his predecessor’s legacy and policies.”

It was also revealed that Yero’s request to the state legislature to allow him review some capital projects in the budget earlier submitted by Yakowa may have been due to pressure from some of his political associates, who had alleged that the former governor’s budgetary allocations were one-sided.

Another source disclosed that Yero’s plan to propose a new budget that fits his political interests and priorities, are as a result of his ambition to contest in the 2015 governorship election.

Recall that late Yakowa submitted the proposed budget, tagged “Budget of Consolidation and Advancement” with recurrent expenditure of N74,441,824,583 and capital expenditure of N102,038,518,425, totaling N176,480,343,008 two days before his death.

Mukhtar Ramalan Yero became Commissioner of Finance when Architect Mohammed Namadi Sambo (now Vice President of Nigeria) was elected governor in 2007 and was chosen as the Deputy Governor to Patrick Yakowa in 2010.

Sensational artiste and ex-housemate at the Big Brother Africa in 2012 died on Valentine Thursday night, throwing the Nigerian and global entertainment industries into mourning.

She died on Thursday night at Reddington Hospital, in Victoria Island, Lagos, due to what the current CEO oF Kennis music record label, Dayo D1, alleged to be Pneumonia- An inflammatory condition of the lung—affecting primarily the microscopic air sacs known as alveoli.

Goldie, who had just returned to Nigeria from California where she attended the Grammy Awards with her record label, Kennis Music boss, Kenny Ogungbe, was also learnt to have died in the presence of a Lagos-based entertainer, Denrele Edun, who was in the hospital with her.

Susan Oluwabimpe Harvey, born in the early 1980s to very educated and successful parents, according to reports, started complaining of a terrible headache just before she was rushed to the hospital where she was pronounced dead upon arrival.

The first of four kids, Goldie attended the Green Springs Montessori Primary School and St. John’s College, Palm Groove, in Lagos while her music career remotely kicked off at the University of Sunderland where she was admitted to study Business Management.

Goldie was signed on to Kennis Music in 2010. and a few months later, she released her acclaimed debut titled, ‘Gold’. Her hit songs include ‘You Know It’, ‘Jawo Jawo’ and DTMB (Don’t Touch My Body).

Goldie, who became the final celebrity to exit the BBA7 star game house in 2012 as the 3rd runner up, has received a total of 10 awards, including Exquisite Lady of the year, Best Female Artiste award and City People Best Female Artiste of the year.

She has also been inducted as a Federal Celebrity Special Marshal, alongside other notable Nigerian Celebrities. The Law Students Society of the Obafemi Awolowo University recently issued her an Award for Musical Excellence under the category of Best Female Artiste of the Year. She has also been conferred a United Nations Youth Ambassador for Peace by the Federal Government.

Former Principal Secretary to the late President Umaru Musa Yar’adua and ex-finance commissioner to former Governor James Ibori of Delta state, Mr. David Edevbie, has filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Lagos, asking it to either compel the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to prosecute him for his alleged link to money laundering deeds or award him a clean bill of health in the absence of any concrete evidence against him.

Edevbie, alongside five other persons, have been the subject of investigation by the EFCC since 2009 in connection with the sale of Delta State’s shareholding in Vee Networks Ltd. (VNL), while he was Delta State Commissioner for Finance.

In the suit brought before the court,  “for the enforcement of his fundamental right to fair hearing within a reasonable time, and the right to receive information without interference,” Mr. Edevbie is asking the court to determine whether the anti-graft agency ought not to have prosecuted or exonerated him over financial crimes allegations, following the sale in 2006 of Delta State’s shareholding in VNL, in which Delta State was a substantial shareholder. The EFCC and  Attorney-General of the Federation are the first and second respondents respectively.

The plaintiff, through his lawyer, Olasupo Shasore (SAN), of Ajumogobia and Okeke, is therefore, seeking an order of the court to compel the respondents to prosecute him where investigation disclosed evidence of wrongdoing or in the alternative, an order compelling the EFCC to make an official written communication exonerating him from any alleged financial crime arising from the VNL transaction.

Edevbie is also praying the court to issue an order compelling the EFCC to disclose the results of its investigation into his involvement in the VNL transaction while he was Delta State Commissioner for Finance pursuant to section 1(3) of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011.

He also wants the court to award him the sum of N500 million as damages for the agency’s breach of his constitutional right to receive information without interference, as enshrined in section 39 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, Article 9 of  African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act (Cap 10) Laws of the Federation of Nigeria (LFN), 1990, (‘the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Right’) and sections 1, 4 and 7 of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011 which denial has brought about loss of business and goodwill to the applicant over the period of the time of the denial.”

In an affidavit supporting the motion, Edevbie averred that he could not have been involved in any money laundering activity arising from the transaction because he had ceased to be a member of the Board of VNL as a Director and  Delta State Executive Council as Commissioner for Finance before the sale of the shares was concluded, and funds received by Delta State Government in June 2006.

He deposed that “after my resignation from  VNL board in August 2004, after which I was duly replaced by another appointee of Delta State Government – Mr. Onosode – and my departure from the Delta State Government as Commissioner for Finance in December, 2005, I was no longer entitled to receive information regarding the final negotiations that eventually led to the sale of Delta State’s shares in VNL in June 2006.”

Recall that Mr. Edevbie was in 2009 named with five others as a co-conspirator in the alleged money laundering charges preferred against former Delta State governor, James Ibori, by the Crown Prosecution in the United Kingdom in 2009  as a result of his position as the Commissioner for Finance and his role as representative of the state government on the board of VNL from June 2001-August 2004. This was shortly after he was appointed Principal Secretary to the late President Yar’Adua, replacing the previous Chief of Staff.

In his affidavit, Edevbie told the court that he wrote to the EFCC through his lawyers on February 24, 2011, and  April 1, “requesting the EFCC to carry out investigations into the allegations, with particular interest in my alleged role as the Commissioner for Finance.

“As an honourable citizen of this Country, I honoured the invitation, and on 10th August, 2011, I was interviewed by operatives of the first Respondent at the first Respondent’s Lagos office. Following further detailed investigations in Nigeria and the UK, I was again interviewed at its Abuja office in March 2012.”

The plaintiff further stated that on November 27, 2012, he caused his lawyers to write another letter to the EFCC demanding for action to be taken on the matter, where his counsels requested for a “written confirmation of the investigation” adding: “should your office determine that our client is still required to answer any criminal charges, we have instructions to demand that a charge be proffered within the next fourteen (14) days in the absence of which a written communication of ‘case closed’ with a determination of no criminal liability must be brought forward. Take notice that we remain under instruction to commence civil action against your office in the absence of the above written report within the next fourteen (14) days.”

According to Edevbie, “the failure, neglect and or refusal” of the EFCC to prosecute him at the conclusion of its investigations is an indication that he has committed no offence for which he could be prosecuted. “Since the interviews with the EFCC and till date,” he said,”there has been no communication whatsoever from the 2nd Respondent informing me of the progress and or any further development in its investigation; neither have I been charged with the commission of any crime. This situation has left me in limbo, particularly as I have the desire to clear my name.”

THE Chief of Staff Government House, Dr Festus Okubor has said Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s administration would work towards The Pointer newspapers relocating from their current location on Nnebisi Road to its permanent site on DBS road, Asaba.

Dr Okubor dropped the hint recently when the Executive and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), The Pointer Chapel paid him a courtesy visit in his office at Asaba.

According to Dr Okubor, efforts are on to ensure that staff of the state-run media organization are properly quartered to enable them bring out their best, adding that government and Deltans are happy with what the staff of the organization is doing in the area of information dissemination.

He also assured staff of the organization that they would benefit from the media allowance being paid to media workers and wondered why staff of the Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Warri and Asaba would be having such benefits without those in The Pointer enjoying same benefits.

While stating that casual staff working in The Pointer would also be absorbed, Dr Okubor urged staff of the organization to continue to bring out their best and support Governor Emmnuel Uduaghan’s 3-point agenda.

Earlier, the Chairman of NUJ, The Pointer Chapel, Comrade Fidelis Egugbo had told the Chief of Staff that moving to the permanent site of the organization would be in line with the infrastructure agenda of Governor Uduaghan’s administration observing that it was sad that the media organization is still operating from a temporal site which was allocated when the organization came into being in 1994.

He expressed confidence in the ability of Governor Uduaghan to initiate the movement of the organization to its permanent site, a move successive government in the state had failed to do, noting that such would also, reduced congestion on Nnebisi road as parking space was not enough in the current temporal site of The Pointer newspapers.

Comrade Egugbo also, called for absorption of casual workers in The Pointer and payment of weigh-in allowance which is being enjoyed by their colleagues in the state-run electronic media.

Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has advocated a national dialogue among Nigerians as a way forward for peace, unity and progress in the country.

The Governor who stated this Wednesday, February 13, 2013 when members of the national working committee of the National Summit Group (NSG) visited him in Asaba, said proper integration after frank talk among Nigerians would help foster unity in the country.

According to him, national dialogue among Nigerians with different views and opinions was important to avoid violence, enhance accommodation and tolerance as well as promote peace.

He explained that the need for open dialogue was to table national issues and bring out possible solutions and share ideas on how best to tackle the issues in the country.

“I believe that with dialogue we can air our different views on issues affecting our country and come to consensus in order to promote peace and unity. This will enable us avoid violence and confrontation in resolving national issues as a country”.

Dr Uduaghan observed that there was nothing wrong with the centenary celebrations of the country but that national dialogue should be infused into the programme.

However, he argued that such dialogue would be better managed by those outside government while the implementation of the outcome should be left with the government.

The Governor lamented the growing mistrust and the absence of genuine integration of the past particularly exemplified by the federal unity schools some decades back

He said there was need for Nigerians to return to that era of integration as in the past where unity strived in the country without tribal sentiments and religious crisis.

“I think that with dialogue we can still return to that era of integration in this country where parents could send their children to schools in any part of the country without the fear of security threat and attendant issues.”

He pledged his administration’s support for the initiative and thanked the group for choosing to hold their meeting in Asaba.

In a brief remark, the chairman of the group, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai said the group was in Delta state on national dialogue to brainstorm on issues affecting the nation.

He explained that the forum was to rub minds with different opinion leaders, activists on how to promote peaceful co-existence in the country.

Alhaji Yakasai noted that the group believed in dialogue to resolve national issues rather than violence and confrontation.

“We are not advocating for sovereign national congress but we welcome good ideas from Nigerians on how to move the country forward peacefully. We do not believe in confrontation and violence in resolving national issues.”

Excitement radiated among the people of Isoko North local government area of Delta state when the Secretary to the Delta state government, Comrade Ovuozorie Macaulay led a delegation of Federal and state legislators, political appointees and other party leaders on a thank you tour across all the 13 wards in the council area.

The tour, according to sources, was embarked upon to give an account of stewardship and express gratitude to the people for voting en masse for all the Peoples Democracy Party (PDP) candidates during the 2011 general elections.

The SSG’s entourage had in attendance, Senator James Manager, representing Delta South senatorial district, Hon. Leo Ogor Okuweh, representing Isoko federal constituency in the House of Representatives and Deputy majority leader, Hon. Tim Owhefere, representing Isoko North constituency in the state Assembly, Mr. Joe Ogeh, Commissioner representing Isoko in the Delta state Oil Producing Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Mr. Patrick Ferife, commissioner of Lands Survey and Urban Development, Mr. Idisi, transition committee chairman of Isoko South local government area and Mr. Mike Ogwah, Special Assistance to the SSG among other party stalwarts.

The carnival like “Thank You” visit which lasted for two days, witnessed a large turn out of party faithful, supporters and followers who gave the entourage a rousing welcome, despite some pockets of youths protest at Ekiugbo-Iyede which was brought under control.

While addressing PDP members at Ellu, Aradhe-Ovrode wards at Ellu, Ofagbe, Okpe-Isoko, Bethel-Oyede, Otor-Iyede, Ekiugbo-Iyede, Emevor, Owhe, Otibio, Owhelogbo and Ozoror wards, Macaulay commended them for voting for all the party candidates during the 2011 general elections.

He appealed to them to continue to give their unflinching support to the Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan’s administration as well as all Isoko elected and appointed political office holders. He also assured the people of the passionate commitment of the present government to better their lots through execution of people oriented projects.

Macaulay, who stressed emphatically that the visit was not a political campaign but a thank you visit, listed some of the state government on-going projects in Isoko land to include construction of modern primary and secondary schools, roads, pipe-borne water among others, just as he pledged that projects and other social amenities would be provided for the people.

In a statement made available to Blank NEWS Online shortly after the two days visit, the SSG expressed gratitude to all who made the visit a success, saying that it was not only when the votes of the people are needed that they should be visited, adding that the sister Isoko South council area will soon take its turn in the thank you visit.

On what informed the visit, the SSG stated that “The world is dynamic, society is dynamic and politics is a dynamic venture. Before now, when they say politician have come, it means they have come to ask for votes, we say this is not the right thing to do. You can’t always go to the people only when you need their votes. You must go to the people to say thank you. You must go to the people to give account of your stewardship. I have been in office in the past two years or based on your vote I was appointed. This is what I have done this two years or this is what I’m going to do. You must find time to go and appreciate the people who voted for your government that made you to be in power or made you to have the position you are occupying. These are the basic of this visit.”

Comrade Macaulay, while saying that they have to appreciate the people of Isoko North who in spite of all odds voted for PDP, recalling that during the rerun, somehow “We narrowly missed this local government because certain persons were deceived and some of us felt we should move higher to play state and national politics and we left home and things happened behind us. So we came back and the people believed in us and in the last than three months we have returned them back to their root which is the PDP. So this is what formed the basis for this visit.”

On his part, Isoko federal constituency representative in the House of Representatives, Hon. Leo Ogor Okuweh thanked and commended the party members for their votes even as he opined that a lot of development projects have been influenced to the area and promised that the people will continue to feel the positive impact of governance.

“It goes to show that the Isoko people quite understand. Going round to appreciate the wonderful support they gave to our party. All said and done I think the turnout was not too bad. Well we are quite open. You must agree with me that information is power, we are transparent, we have adopted a very good mode of operation and so we don’t keep secrets from each other because the priority that is in our heart is the development of Isoko nation and politics is all about sharing resources and what we are looking at is the Isoko interest and we have actually put our personal interests behind, knowing fully well that the Isoko interest is our priority, so we open clear communication lines.”

Asked how well he has impacted on the lives of the people as a federal lawmaker, the Deputy Majority Leader at the House of Representatives said, “First you must know that the provision of section 4 (2) of the constitution has made me a lawmaker. As lawmaker it is my responsibility to make laws for the good governance of this country but if you want to talk about my responsibility as a parliamentarian, I wouldn’t probably want to speak about that because you should be the judge on that but if you want to talk of projects I have influenced, they are unaccountable. You have them, wonderful jobs going on all over the place, street lights, road construction, water and a host of others. I think I owuld want to give myself a pass mark but that judgment should be yours and not mine.

On the youth protest at Ekuigbe-Iyede during the thank you visit where the entourage was booed, Hon. Ogor Okuweh has this to say “There are bound to be some disagreement in all situation of this nature, you can’t run away from the reality of that. When you have 100 per cent acceptability you know there’s something wrong. But as good leaders saddled with the responsibility of moving Isoko forward we would look at some of those voices and be able to meet them at their point of need because politics like I told you is all about resource sharing. Probably they are not satisfied with the level of distribution of resources.”

On his part, Senator James Manager representing Delta South Senatorial District of the state at the National Assembly, disclosed that he has influenced several projects into the area as a lawmaker. “Anywhere you see NDDC projects as they are dotted all over the places, these are projects I influenced directly or indirectly because I’m the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Niger Delta including NDDC for the past five to six year. If we don’t budget for them the projects would not be executed. And don’t forget I came from a background of developing an area, I was Commissioner for Work in Delta State and the achievement I recorded are there for the records so am yearning for the development of my people.”

The Senator described the thank you visit as very unique. “Unique in the sense that we haven’t done this before. We used to gather everybody together to thank them. It happened in my first outing. I brought everybody together in Oleh, I thanked them, in my second tenure I brought them out at the Senatorial District level in Warri and I thanked them but this particular one is taking the visit to the people in the ward proper and that’s why it’s very unique. By the grace of God I want to see if I can, because going round the 91 ward that make up in my senatorial district is not easy but if I can, I want to replicate this thing everywhere because it would avail me the opportunity to feel the pulse of the people.”

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State has hailed the resilience, diligence and patriotic zeal of the Super Eagles team that lifted the cup at the 2013 African Cup of Nations football tournament, Sunday night.

In a statement issued in Asaba by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Sunny Ogefere, the Governor said that the team demonstrated that Nigerians were capable of achieving feats if giving the right opportunity.

Besides, he said that the victory influenced largely by home-based players and tended by ‘local coaches’ was a loud statement in favour of local content in the Nigerian project.

“I congratulate Nigerians. My thanks and commendations go to the players and the technical team led by our own son, Stephen Keshi who has carried on the success story in sports for which Delta State is known for”, he stated.

“I must also commend the courage of Sunday Mba whom we groomed at Warri Wolves Football club  as well as the patriotism and humility exhibited by Victor Moses in spite of his travails back home”, Uduaghan added.

Following recent assurance from the Interim Management Committee of the Globacom League that hostilities will resume in the next two weeks, the Management of Warri Wolves FC have decided that Sunday Mba and Chigozie Agbim, both Super Eagles players in the on-going African Cup of Nations (AFN) in South Africa, will have to see out their contract with the Oil City team.

The decision, according to dependable sources, was as a result of the lack of concrete offer from any of the premier league clubs for both Sunday Mba who scored the winning goal for Nigeria against highly rated Ivory Coast and Chigozie Agbim.

Both players have therefore been advised to learn from what happened to Osaze Odemwingie who tried to force his way from West Brom but ended up embarrassing himself.

In a release made available to Blank NEWS Online by the Media Officer of Warri Wolves, Moses Etu, the Club will not want anything that will distract them from preparing well for the coming season and with no concrete offer coming for both players, we have decided that they must see out the contract they signed with us.

“To buttress our point and in order to convince all those who still doubt our stand by referring to them as players of other clubs, we have also decided to make public the contract papers signed by both players.

“Up till now, no concrete offer has been received from any club in the country. So we have no choice than to advise them to see out the contract they signed with Warri Wolves. It would be stupid for both players after what they have achieved to behave otherwise.”

Etu also used the opportunity to advise those who are still in doubt to study the contract papers and stop misleading the two players.

“I can see that just the way some people misled Osaze, someone is equally misleading these two players .However, unlike West Brom’s fans, who kicked against Osaze, our fans will welcome them back with open hands especially with their heroic feat in South Africa.”

Etu however assured the two players that when the right offer comes, nobody will hold on to them unjustly provided they follow due process.

“When the right offer comes, we will not waste time in releasing them. All they need to do is to follow due process. Get permission before they speak with the club and the Club should also come for negotiation. It is a simple business if it is done in the right way.”

Recall that former Chelsea man, Tony Cascarino, while speaking on Osaze Odemwingie said, ”You do not go down to another club and knock on their door. Its absolutely mind blowing that someone would attempt to do such a daft thing. When you sign a contract, you go on club terms. And trying to push it through is the highest level of stupidity I’ve ever heard of.”

Signed Contract Agreement(s) Between Sunday Mba, Chigozie Agbim & Warri Wolves FC:

It has been revealed that some serving governors and members of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), may have concluded plans to join the newly formed political party, All Progressive Congress (APC).

Among governors touted as having plans to leave the PDP, four are from the North-West, three from the North-East, two from the South-South and three from the North-Central.

Further proof have shown that these governors, especially those from the North, would  decamp from PDP to APC, if it becomes clear that President Goodluck Jonathan would run for a second term in office.

Findings have proved that the governors would soon leave the PDP, as they are already discussing with the leaders of the newly formed political party, following the merging of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN, All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) and Congress for Progressive Change CPC), inclusing other political parties .

Reacting to the plot by some PDP governors to decamp to APC, an anonymous member of the National Working Committee of the PDP who confirmed the plan, said “The party’s leadership is afraid. I must tell you. We are not convenient at all because the formation of the party is coming at a time we are having problems in our party.

“Don’t forget that the NWC is divided. The governors are angry. We cannot hold National Executive Committee meeting. We are even finding it difficult to elect the chairman of our Board of Trustees.

“We are also having financial problems in the party as the governors have refused to fund us the way they used to do before the crisis started. So, if anyone is telling you that we are at peace and are not worried as a result of the formation of the party, such a person is being economical with the truth.

“We know that the opposition is in control of the House, because though the Speaker, Mallam Aminu Tambuwal belongs to our party, he is more popular among the opposition political parties.”

But also reacting to the development, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Chief Olisa Metuh said, “Definitely, such will never happen. We are not afraid of the newly formed party. Our governors are too committed to the PDP to join the APC.

“You cannot leave the ruling party to join an opposition party, whose future you cannot even tell. It has never happened in the history of this democracy for the PDP to lose any of its governors to the opposition.

“Yes, it is agreed that the party is having some challenges, but we are managing the situation. When other parties had challenges, we knew how they handled them. We are therefore not afraid that some of our governors could leave the PDP and join the APC.”

Meanwhile, spokesperson of the CPC, Mr. Rotimi Fashakin said, “It is not impossible for the governors to join us. The governor of Niger State, Dr. Babangida Aliyu, just said today (Thursday) that Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (retd.) remains his leader and that he is happy at the birth of APC.

“APC is a success story that has come to stay. The governor also added that the formation of the new party would stop all riffraffs from contesting the presidency. So, even if all the governors of the PDP want to come, they are welcome. APC is a party with large heart.”

However, the Deputy Chairman of All Progressive Alliance (APGA), Chief Uche Ejike has said his party is not part of the newly formed party, alleging that the mega party is made up of strange bed fellows.

”I have to say unequivocally as the deputy national chairman of the party that APGA is not part of the so called merger. I need to let  all Nigerians know , I need to let our followers, all the people who are interested in our party  to know that APGA is not part of the group called mega party.

”There was no point in time when the National Working Committee(NWC) deliberated on it as to drag APGA into it. There is  no meeting whatsoever of that . And I know that the only competent body, virtue of the constitution of APGA , that can decide where the party will go if not the NWC.”

Also, the APGA member representing Anaocha/Njikoka/Dunukofia Federal Constituency, Mrs Uche Ekwunife has reaffirmed that APGA had not merged with any political party.

“APGA is a party established for the purpose of advancing the political interest of the Igbo people. Merging the party with other political parties should not be a hush-hush matter. There has been no discussion or consultation among stakeholders.

As a major stakeholder and the oldest member of the party in the House of Representatives, I believe I should be in the know if there are such plans. I have not received any information from my governor nor has the national chairman contacted me about any merger talks. So, how do you shave a man’s head in his absence? For APGA to be part of any merger plan, there must be proper consultations as anything to the contrary will be procedurally wrong.”

This discourse has become very  necessary due to recent issues of wanton abandonment of laudable projects sponsored by government, oil companies, organizations, among others, that would have added value to the lives of Nigerian residents, especially in the rural and oil bearing communities of the Niger Delta region.

It is however painful and most regrettable to discover that the attitude of persons with leadership responsibilities who oftentimes engage in contract execution have undergone a subtle change by falling short of project delivery in our communities, despite our struggle for infrastructure and human capital development. Meanwhile, the supposed beneficiaries of these basic needs have died in different struggle to enhance their livelihood.

In the interim, armed youths have resorted to kidnap of workers on project sites in our communities demanding ransom, and thereby leaving the projects abandoned as operations of the construction company come to a standstill. These youths should know that they are inadvertently subverting growth with the kidnap of development coming to our communities?

However, the political or community leader who collects payment for a non-existing project is as criminal as the armed kidnapper, hence our respected sons and daughters are now neck deep in kidnapping projects coming to our communities. Yes, it is true.

As friends and relations of a kidnap victim suffer stress, so also is the entire community, in the case of kidnapped projects. Both the leaders who hinder development in our communities and the kidnappers of workers on site are as good as non-existent because their relevance to useful development is no longer felt by the people.

In short, these classification of leaders who pretentiously collect sizeable amount of money  for project execution many in the Izon communities. We therefore urge them to sit up now and reconsider their unflinching behaviour to bring development, peace and joy to their communities. “Izon Ibe” means truthful people.

In the same vein, construction and oil companies who are genuinely poised to execute people oriented projects, according to specifications, should encourage community vigilante services amongst youths to guide and protect workers on site against kidnappers. If this step is taken into cognizance, and community youths are employed, issues of kidnapping would become a non issue.

But one may also wonder about a leader who expects his followers to take after him. What would they emulate? Is it shamelessness in collecting payment for non-existing projects worth billions of naira; buying of exotic cars and houses with the proceeds of the kidnapped projects? Do you believe your followers would tread differently? It is a sheer recycling of despondency, fear, hopelessness, poverty, etc for our communities with its kind of leaders in reoccurrence.

A leader is one who thinks better for his community. He brings joy to the people. His presence attracts confidence, peace and joyfulness. Can you ever bring joy to your community when you are identified for heartless abandonement of projects in your community? Your answer is as good as mine.

There is also this unfortunate idea of some leaders who engage in arming youths with dangerous weapons to relegate opposition. This type of unwholesome leadership role is as evil as wishfully darkening the light of development in Izon land.

There is no love between the thug and his leader. It is a known fact that the leader cannot buy guns for a brother or son. You are only useful to him when he has evil or dangerous tasks meant for the “animal”. He would never wish his brother or his son to play the animal role of killing souls. Well, if you are still in it, you are then an animal. Your leaders who use you for such clandestine operations wish you dead or not ready to see you after the success of your evil operation.

What do you think could deprive any known or self acclaimed leader of the Izon nation from encouraging youths to embrace education, skill acquisition programmes and other viable and lawful endeavours, instead of deliberately allowing the youths to take innocent leap to wanton self destruction. This is simply because the leader may have put his own community for sale and has nothing to lose if the unexpected happens. After all, his sons and daughters are already citizens in foreign lands and mostly doing very well to take leadership positions from them upon their exit.

My prayer, therefore, is that our innocent youths who are armed to harm our development should have a rethink. All over the world, youths are agents of development and positive change.

• Bro. Tona Youmu is Coordinator, Niger Delta Parrot “Izon-Egbere”. 08063417399

Blank NEWS Online encounters Prof. Somayina Gabriel Nwoko (OON), retired professor of Agric-Economics at the University of Ibadan. His testament on FLAG REVOLUTION is insightful and suggestive of new perspectives.

1. WHAT THE FLAG MEANS:

Our national flag was hosted on 1st October 1960. It is a transformation of our country Nigeria into a Nation. It is liberty for Nigeria and Nigerian. It is Nigeria plus. The plus elements are the visions and the aspirations which independence engendered among Nigerians. It is a socio-politico- economic track which our founding fathers cut from that day to lead to the infinity of Nigeria. It is a synonym for the compound world “Nigeria my country”. It is the dynamic greatness of Nigeria. It is a glorious star mapping the ancient track of our founding fathers. It is the consolidated unity of Nigeria. It is an unwritten book to be deciphered by political leaders who occupy the leadership stages in the Nation. It is Nigeria at different world fora. It is our national, global and horizontal securities. It is the embodiment of all our national ideals.

In the national pledge we say “I pledge to Nigeria my country” the pledge is made to the national flag because it is the synonym of “Nigeria my country”. This can be confirmed from President Barack Obama’s acceptance speech in his re-election.
“We believe in generous America.
Open to the dreams of our immigrant
daughter who studies in our schools
And pledges to our flag”.

2. GREATNESS OF NIGERIA

Nigeria is rich in mineral resources. The country is populated with happy and hard working people. We are blessed with leaders with vision. On which of these will the greatness of the Nation lie?
The mineral wealth will make the country wealthy and our people rich if the resulting stream of income is equitably managed and efficiently distributed. But the wealth can be trampled upon, looted and plundered. It can be the cause of war and division as in Sudan. But far be it.

Can our greatness then lie in our people? People can not on their own make a nation great else they go into disarray. Besides, they can be led to collective doom as were the Germans under Hitler. But the people are the most important members on the greatness of a nation if they are led on the path of “honor and glory” to shifting “great lofty heights… where peace and justice shall reign” under a guiding star. That guiding star is the national flag. So, our resources, the people and the flag form a tripodic identity of greatness.

At independence, the flag proclaimed liberty. It proclaimed inheritable dreams of greatness. Nigeria was then nicknamed “giant of Africa”.

Today the human rodents in the nation have attacked the giant from different angles.

Even though I was then a third year economics student in the University College Ibadan I can recollect some of our hopes as recounted by Prof. Onitiri. We dreamt of consolidated unity, country wide market, an excellent net-work of transportation system, complementary products from areas with comparative advantages, cultural harmony, wide international markets with friendly nations, education for all, and for leadership, industrialization with locally sourced raw materials with multiplier effects, locally brewed democracy and democratic institutions, excellent defense system, impeccable legal system and a lot more.

These dreams and aspirations could not have turned our people into Zombies only obeying orders without reasoning, and looting the national treasury without remorse. No, we are bound to reason we are bound to disagreed, we are bound to dialogue, we are bound to come to progressive consensus among states, and zone as to ways, means, and speed.

According to Barack Obama, “These arguments we have are a mark of our liberty”.

3. LIBERTY.

It was liberty that forced Biafra to declare attempted secession. It was liberty and leadership that forced General Gowon to declare in succession, clinical police action and then war of unity. It was love that moves the All Highest to end the war. It was liberty that forced a group of Northern politicians to state their readiness to make Nigeria ungovernable under President Jonathan. It was liberty that forced some people to organize themselves into terrorist groups. It is liberty and leadership responsibility that will force Jonathan to adopt the most effective option that will end terrorism.

But he has no liberty to surrender to the terrorists. He has no liberty to make terrorism a living part of Nigeria. He must follow the old track of greatness to achieve peace and harmony in Nigeria. Liberty is the cause of our problems. Liberty and leadership are the solutions to our problems.

4. WHY THIS DISCUSSION?

We are in search of a globally dominant high ground with constellation of excellences on which we can stand as elders, and beacon at our children. Most of what we see are neighborhood lofty grounds which are crowded by ethnic and religious apologists and criminals at high places who have eyes for causes but are totally blind to the cause of causes. The causes of a problem provide ways to solve the problem. The cause of the causes makes a problem to solve itself. This knowledge belongs only to the Divinity and his messengers.

But far, far beyond the neighborhood heights, at a telescopic height, stands an inanimate, collectivized and idealized bridal authority, colorfully robbed in immutable green, white and green. We can march there effortlessly in perpetuity with joy, peace, harmony in every step we take without tiredness.

5. DOES THE FLAG FLY?

Does the National flag which means so much to us really fly? I believe so much in national flag that I want Nigerian flag to fly. When I returned to Nigeria from my search for academic laurels and academic attachment in 1975, I saw Nigeria flag only in the airport and Police Barracks. So I published an article “Let the Flag fly” in the daily times Newspapers. When I mounted the national flag in my unfenced compound, youths invaded my compound when they were mourning their dead youth colleague and cut down the pole bearing the flag. Today as I am speaking now, two flags are flying in my compound, the national flag and a personal divinely donated flag. They say safe journey when I am travelling and welcome to me when I return home from any journey or outing. People ask my wife, what entitles this man to fly these Flags? Her usual answer is my husband is looking for true Nigeria.

But the national flag does not fly in any Lawmaker’s compound. It does not fly in any Senator’s personal compound. It does not fly in any serving or retired Minister’s compound or in any Governor’s compound. But it only flies on their escort vehicles to terrorize other road users.

It flies in school compounds in tatters and shreds that are unfit for a madman’s waste and in similar forms even in the compounds of the ruling political party offices and other party offices. Flags of this form do not command any respect nor do they convey any ideal. This is why cultists can sit under the shadow of or in view of the national flag to plan evil. This is also why pupils and some university students engage in lawlessness under the shadow of the flag. Every lawlessness in this nation has its remote cause on the failure of the flag to fly and flying the flag incorrectly.

6. THE REVOLUTION

This is an unconventional revolution. There are no unjust taxes to be lifted. There are no downtrodden classes to be liberated. There are no authoritarians to be deposed. We are not speaking in whisper from ear to ear, from gutter to joints, from farm to squalors, but from the pinnacle of a media house. We proclaim FLAG REVOLUTION FOR THE REBIRTH OF OUR COUNTRY NIGERIA
***It is a revolution for practical education in national consciousness with several shafts.
***It is a revolution to breed voluntary patriots with superlative demonstrable love for Nigeria.
***It is a revolution to submerge ethnicity and to confine religion to churches, and mosques and undermine criminality in it various forms. We want to separate the state from religion and ethnicity. Nigeria should be a secular state in law and in fact. All religion announcements and preaching in state owned radio and televisions should be banned. Hajji and pilgrimage should be a private sector affair with Government welfare input. Every church or mosque erected in Government compound should be converted to Government offices. No worshiping should be conducted in Government building. No civil servant should bear any religious title in his or her office. Ebonyi state Government has already taken the lead in the ban of religious announcements in state Government owned television and radio stations.

***It is a revolution for single citizenship and single indigeneship. There is nothing like citizen of Lagos, or of Ekiti or of Kano or of Eket or of Asaba. But there are indigenes of towns or communities. You are an indigene of the location where you will be carried to when death strikes. That is the community or town jointly own by ancestral inheritance. You can erect a personal building anywhere you acquire land to do so because of your citizenship right. But erecting a building can not make you an indigene of the location of the building.

***It is a revolution to promote reasoning, opinion, duty and conscience in nation building as against sole instinctive behavior.
It is a revolution to raise patriots and encourage our statesmen to protect individual liberty, promote the rule of law, and defend our democratic institutions.
***It is a revolution for every citizen to live and act by the harmonizing universal truth that Nigeria is a nation and that the nationhood is non-negotiable.
***It is a revolution to promote the greatness of Nigeria.
For this revolution to be attractive and knowable by all youths, for the allurement to be desired and for the permanence to be lasting, minimally, the following people should plant the national flag in the personal compounds. Traditional ruler, chairman of local Government councils and their councilors, Assemblymen, Commissioners and State Governors, Judges at every level of the Judiciary, retired Generals and Police Commissioners and higher ranked Policemen, Senators and National Law Makers, Ministers and members of Presidential Advisory Committee, formers Presidents and Heads of state of Nigeria and their Deputies, Professors, Nigerians who have received national honors award, registered business premises, and all winners in world sporting competitions. This does not bar any other person from flying the flag.

When the flag flies in many places, people will be made to understand that Nigeria is bigger than their communities where they are indigenes, and they can reside anywhere the flag flies as residents of the place and citizens of Nigeria. Then they will be made to understand that as they have a duty to develop their places as indigenes, they also have a bigger duty to Nigeria.

7. DUTY TO NIGERIA.

The duty we owe to Nigeria is to make the nation great. This can be achieved by the pursuit of excellence and selflessness in whatever we do. The farmer should produce as much food and raw material as he is capable and enabled to from year to year. The carpenter should produce the best furniture. The mechanic should satisfy his customers, the builder should ensure that he builds a house that can stand the weather and soil condition. People of different professions should meet the best professional competence required of them. Lecturers should open the door to knowledge and the thirst for knowledge to their students. Politicians should be honest statesmen. Our Lawmakers in the house of representative are vanguard of this revolution in works of their committees of oil subsidy, pension fund and capital market. But we need a law with life imprisonment for financial crimes. Other leaders should follow the established track of greatness with transparency, accountability, togetherness and selflessness.

Everyone should do what will lift the nation higher rather than drag it down. We should build rather destroy the work of others or the public domain. Our duties should be consistent with those of others. They should be complementary and harmonious with those of others. Anyone who does anything that is inharmonious destroys Nigeria and should be judged by the public and by his conscience. Do not be fraudulent or evade your duty.

Your duty to Nigeria is to do the best in whatever you do. Put in your best effort and your spirit in whatever you do that is within the law. Be a grown up child in the service of the nation. Add the child’s selflessness to your strength, power and knowledge in the service of the nation.

8. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION.

The national flag is inanimate but real. It stands as a guiding star for Nigeria. Look at it as my “country Nigeria”. Let it inspire you to excellence and selflessness. Let Nigeria be a collection of excellence so that we can achieve the greatness we dream for Nigeria. Let us collectively detach the nation from religion, ethnicity and criminality. Let us raise patriots and statesmen with the pride of our national flag. Let the flag fly from the village to the city, from your compound to the compound of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Let the flag be the engine pulling wagons that are loaded with acts that are good, acts that are excellent, acts that are harmonious, acts that are universal, acts that will take Nigeria to mighty and lofty rolling revolutionary heights. There are many revolutionary shafts. Track the one you want by publications, speeches, communications, encouragements, grouping and other harmonious lawful acts.

• Prof. Somayina Gabriel Nwoko, OON, (A.K.A Silver & Gold) Is Facilitator, NATIONAL PEACE FOUNDATION OF NIGERIA (NPFN)

• EMAIL: firstpeacefoundation@yahoo.com
• G.S.M: 08064384963.

The Delta State House of Assembly has, according to bookmakers’ predictions, increased the size of the state budget proposal of N398.31billion for the 2013 fiscal year with a whooping N74 billion.

Although, analysts have argued that the increase, as was envisaged, results from the myriad of uncompleted projects and the recent flooding experience in the state, most Deltans have continued to challenge the reason behind the “unholy” hike from the proposed N398,317,113,836 to N472,006,772,179, saying it was unnecessary and superfluous.

The new budget of N472 billion was passed on Wednesday, February 06, 2013 during the resumed sitting of the state House of Assembly presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, following a motion moved by the Majority Leader, Monday Igbuya and seconded by Mr. Kennedy Dubri, is also higher with about N35 billion than the N437.21 billion estimated for the 2012 fiscal year.

According to the new breakdown as passed by the lawmakers, the state’s Recurrent Expenditure is now N157,603,782,607.00 at 23.4 per cent while Capital Expenditure would gulp N314,402,989,563.00 at 66 per cent increases respectively.

The new lift in the budget has however affected the sectoral breakdown of the capital expenditure estimates, as the Economic sector which originally stood at N97,052,878,380 at 31 per cent in the earlier proposal is now N103,866,023,291 with an upsurge of N24,790,594,911 representing 31.4 per cent increase.

Estimates of the Social and Environment sectors have also been hiked as the original N46,984,952,781 representing 18.62 per cent for the Social sector is now pegged at N52,683,153,540  representing 12.12 per cent, just as the Environment sector which had N50,758,764,931 at 20.11 has been reviewed upward with additional N22,853,000,000 representing 45 per cent increase.

In the recurrent expenditure estimates, the overhead costs in the same budget which earlier had N52,201,030,693 representing 35.77 per cent will now enjoy extra N11,661,888,130 representing 8.0 per cent.

Recall that in  the initial budget proposal of N398.31 billion for the 2013 fiscal year presented to the state legislature on November 23, 2012 by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, the original budget estimate comprised of N145.94 billion or 36.64 per cent for recurrent expenditure and N252.37 billion or 63.36 per cent for capital expenditure.

The governor had explained that the 2013 budget proposal showed a decrease of N38.9 billion or 8.9 per cent when compared to the year 2012 approved budget of N437.21 billion by N38.9billion.

Meanwhile, the House Committee on Appropriation, in their recommendation, has said that the increment is due to the urgent need to complete all on-going major projects embarked upon by the Governor Uduaghan’s administration before 2014.

Delta State governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has reaffirmed that the payment of the mandatory 13% derivation fund to oil producing and host communities is a constitutional matter, saying he would not be compelled or intimidated to act contrary to the constitution by any form of agitation from any individual or group.

Governor Uduaghan, who gave this clarification during an interactive media chat with newsmen in Government House, Asaba, said that the Federal governemnt was working according to the constitution by paying the money to the State government for the development of the oil producing communities in the Niger Delta states, adding that those advocating for alternative arrangements should seek the proper channels to express their objectives instead of heating up the polity.

According to the governor,  those advocating for the 13% derivation fund to be paid directly to the host communities instead of through the state government and its designated intervention agency like the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), should first go and study the constitution to ascertain if there is any section which confers legality on any association called “host communities” as a separate government of its own.

“I am not worried about the agitation by the group and i can assure you that it has never been mentioned in any of our meetings and we have never discussed it, so no governor is loosing any sleep over the matter”.

“I am sure you all know who is leader of this agitation don’t you? It is (Chief Wellington) Okirika, (the former DESOPADEC Chairman). In fact they met me recently in Warri and i told them that the payment of the 13% derivation is a constitutional matter and that they should go to the law court or explore the proper due process channels to challenge the constitutionality of the matter if they were not satisfied with the present arrangement. It is not in my hand. I can only do what the constitution says.”

Governor Uduaghan blamed the agitators, describing them as those who were no longer in a position to continue with their corruption and so were unhappy and are now trying to cause disaffection in the polity.

“The people at the head of this agitation are those who no longer have access to grab as they did before so they are now unhappy. What did they do with the money given to them when they were in DESOPADEC?

“None of the governors have told me anything about this agitation in their states. Perhaps we will discuss it in our next meeting but so far it has not even been mentioned and we are definitely not worried about it.”

A self styled “Delta leaders” group, under the aegis of The People’s Movement, while reflecting on the recent state of affairs in Delta State, has given Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan a pass mark in democratic practice and service delivery.

A statement made available to Blank NEWS Online by the group’s Director of Communications, Mrs. Ibifuro Tatua, described certain allegations of poor performance, kidnap of a serving judge in the state and profligacy as colourless, laughable and a deliberate malice to bring down the governor.

“In a country where some governors recklessly abandon their responsibilities to the people, abuse their offices through ostentatious lifestyle amidst mass poverty and through glaring indiscipline, Uduaghan has over time built for himself the integrity for redeeming promises made to the poor and the needy as well as working for the interest of the people in the state”

The leaders lamented the unwarranted and provocative attacks on the governor aimed at destroying his rising political profile, his special relationship with the presidency and key political actors in Nigeria and abroad, warning against the likely negative consequences such a development was likely to have to the state.

The leaders advised politicians and elders in the state, particularly those whose ambition to remain eternally as plunderers of resources to temper ambition and greed with concern for the public good.

“Leaders at whatever level must demonstrate a certain degree of decency and exemplary conduct. Desperate politicians, those without ideas and popular goodwill are running away from real issues and resorting to character assassination and personal abuse. These people, mainly elders and politicians, are not united by the common desire to move Delta State forward but to bring down Governor Uduaghan and his unprecedented record of performance.”

The leaders extolled the virtues of the governor, emphasizing that his visionary, exemplary and transformational leadership has taken Delta State to an all-time high level since 2007.

“We know that posterity will be on your side for the good works you are doing in Delta State just as we know that the founding fathers of the state believe you have surpassed their expectations in less than six years.”

On the impact of the administration, the leaders said like a pathfinder, the governor has within five years charted a new course of development for the people of Delta State.

“On assumption of office, Uduaghan promised to leave indelible and enduring legacies for the benefit of the people and future generations. This promise has translated into a lot of viable and very meaning projects. He has also moved in to wipe the tears of the people”.

Taking a tour into Uduaghan’s acts in the health sector, it is evident that the state is in for the best. All the general hospitals have been have been rehabilitated. The out of stock syndrome, which had crippled hospitals efficiency in other states, has already been confined to the dustbins. Drugs are constantly purchased and distributed to hospitals and other health institutions in the state.

“On the education turf, Uduaghan has reminded the people of the state that investment in that sector is the only way to control and stem the tide of youth restiveness. Apart from the renovation of primary and secondary schools, the government has awarded scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students in local and foreign universities.

“Recently, Uduaghan shocked athletes and officials of Team Delta with a big cash reward of one million each for every gold medal won at the Eko 2012 National Sports Festival. Uduaghan also announced automatic employment and scholarship for all gold medalists at the fiesta, while selected silver medalists also enjoyed the same gesture.

“Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission has so far completed 790 people oriented projects since its inception. The projects completed include school buildings, water schemes as well as hospitals and health centres. The Ministry of Women Affairs recently rehabilitated 1720 physically challenged people. The new Government House, Asaba International Airport, Asaba General hospital, beautification and massive reconstruction of roads are there for all to see. Uduaghan is also committed towards maintenance of existing road network.”

The leaders while thanking the governor for embarking on measures to protect the environment and make it safer for the people, urged Deltans at home and abroad to join forces with the governor to move the state forward.
“Governor Uduaghan is working very hard to ensure that the funds available to him are spread round effectively to achieve maximum effect.”

Delta State Board of Internal Revenue (DBIR) has expressed its zeal to commence a comprehensive audit of the 25 local government areas in the state to determine their level of compliance in relation to revenue generation and remittance.

Chairman of the Board, Hon Joel-Onowakpo Thomas who made the disclosure to Blank NEWS Online, said the local government audit will commence on Monday, February 04, 2013.

The pronouncement which came shortly after the Board’s meeting with the Auditor General (Local Government) and Local Government Service Commission in Asaba, is a measure aimed at ensuring effective revenue generation at the local government level.

According to Hon Joel-Onowakpo, the collaboration among the three state government agencies was geared towards finding a common ground to addressing the issue of revenue generation and remittance to the appropriate quarter, particularly at the various councils in the state, which according to him ,had not done well in terms of remittance.

“Basically, the three offices have come together and agreed on a working morality to embark on audit exercise of the 25 local government areas in the state in order to determine their level of compliance with regard to the remittance of the  revenues generated.”

While noting the various challenges facing the board at the local government offices, the Revenue Board chairman said most of the local governments have derailed from the provision of the law, as they do whatever they like with the revenue generated without remittance to the board

He said that the only way to address the fundamental issue was to bring the three critical government agencies together to audit the 25 councils with a view to determining their level of compliance with the provision of tax law, saying that a lot is hidden in the councils.

Joel-Onowakpo said that with the N61Billion revenue target for the 2013 fiscal year, the board had taken a holistic assessment of its operations and measures to block all the observed loopholes, assuring that with the caliber of staff at the board and their commitment, the state government revenue target for this year would be attained.

He said that there was the need to expand the revenue base of the state government in line with the philosophy of the Governor,Dr.Emannuel Uduaghan” Delta Beyond Oil”  project rather than relying solely on federal allocation which is determined oil revenue.

“Mono economy is not good for any person or government. So we should be able to create alternative source of revenue beyond oil. This is the philosophy of the governor and he is seriously building capacity towards that.“

Delta state Director of Information and former Acting General Manager of Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS), Asaba, Sir. Ngozi Austin Mowah is among the newly appointment eight  Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil Service, approved by the state governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan.

According to a statement signed by Mr. Paul Osahon, Deputy Director of Information and made available to Blank NEWS Online, “the new Permanent Secretaries are Mr. Afonwa Joseph Omeife, Dr. (Mrs) Lilian Omotekoro Okpakpo, Mr. Ngozi Austin Mowah, Mr. Valentine Uche Okwuchi, Engr. Adua Donatus Umukoro, Mr. Eric O. E. Osharode, Mrs. Felicia Nkem Adun and Mr. Emmanuel Amu Yugbovwre.

A dependable source revealed that the eight new Permanent Secretaries-designates were selected from among a list of over 20 persons pencilled down for elevation.

Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has rewarded an English Literature teacher, Mr. Ikechukwu Akamaka with a brand new car for his hard work at a Literary Session held last year to honour Prof. Ogaga Ifowodo, a literary icon and lecturer at the University of Texas, USA.

Recall that Mr Akamaka, a teacher at  the West-End Mixed Secondary School, Asaba led his students, among other schools to participate in the Literary programme organised by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Foreign Relations, Mr. Oma Djeba, on Thursday November 29, 2012 in Government House, Asaba.

The teacher’s reward came on the wings of the impressive performance of his students in an impromptu poetry recitation organized by Governor Uduaghan, which featured 14 students from various schools. The students were also rewarded with an i.Pad each.

During the literary session, Governor Uduaghan said, “It gladdens my heart to see that literature will not die when young ones such as these come out to express themselves through poems. Taking a good look at the teacher, it is quite obvious that he has given his devotion to the job. He does not look like someone who shares his teaching time with his private business”.

The presentations took place in government house, Asaba on Thursday, January 31, 2013, about two months when the car gift and iPad promise was made by the elated state governor.

Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has signed into law a Bill establishing the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) with a caution that the State was yet to get off the hook of flooding.

Dr Uduaghan said that it was in recognition of this fear that the state initiated the Bill to address flood issues and other natural disasters in future.

He steted that he never envisaged that last year’s flooding would be of such magnitude but assured Deltans that his administration has put measures on ground to avert any further occurrence.

The governor hinted that the Federal Government was planning to construct two buffer dams in the country as measures to check future flood disasters especially to accommodate floods from dams opened by neighbouring countries.

“As measures to check future flood disaster, the Federal Government plans to construct two dams to check flooding in the country especially the kind of flood that came from dams opened by neighbouring counties”.

Speaking further, he noted that a lot of measures have been put in place by the State and Federal government to ensure that the country would not suffer from such devastating effect in the future.

Presenting the Bill for the Governor’s accent, the speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Victor Ochei said the House worked hard to pass the Bill because the flood disaster that hit the state took everyone by surprise.

Hon. Ochei said the Bill would establish the Agency and empower it to resolutely handle all disaster.

“The governor sent a Bill to establish the State Emergency Management Agency before the flood crisis. This is in recognition of the need to handle expediently and efficiently natural or unexpected crisis in the state. The agency will be empowered to carry out such task effectively”.

Meanwhile, the Technical Committee on Flood Impact Assessment set up by the Delta State Government, has said that about N10billion was required for the reconstruction of infrastructures destroyed by flood as well as the resettlement of victims of the flood that devastated the state last year.

At a public presentation of its report yesterday in Asaba, Prof Chris Orubu who presented the report on behalf of the Technical Committee, disclosed that 231 communities in 12 local government areas of the state were adversely affected.

Besides, he said that 220 primary schools and 84 secondary schools were damaged, 357 fish farms destroyed, while 753 market stores were affected.

Prof Orubu who described the flood as the worst in the last 50 years said the cost of road maintenance was not accommodated in the report.

He however recommended immediate fumigation and construction of deep well water in the villages affected by the flood.

Calling for the rehabilitation of failed portions of roads in the rural areas, Prof Orubu recommended the supply of farm implements and machines to farmers.

The university don said the Committee recommended for improved weather forecasting system to ensure accuracy in predictions as well as cross country management of rivers to check flooding.

Orubu who said the Committee’s report was divided into short and long term stated that the Committee was optimistic that when all natural water channels were opened up, flooding in the state would be minimized.

The chairman of the Technical Committee and Vice Chancellor, Delta State University, Abraka (DELSU) who in his remarks before the presentation of the report said more mud houses were destroyed during the flood disaster and requested the state government to establish a database that would vividly capture the depth of the flood disaster.

He regretted that while the committee was preparing its report, some unscrupulous elements made attempt to influence the committee’s report negatively.

He however said members of the committee resisted the fifth columnist stoutly and came up with an objective report which he said even though was technical in nature but was simplified for the understanding of all those who would come across the report.

Receiving the report the state governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan appealed to the Federal government, corporate organizations and individuals to assist the state government to enable it contend with the enormous problems the flood disaster heaped on the state.

Uduaghan disclosed that it would be difficult for the state government to raise 10 billion naira for the reconstruction of infrastructures and resettlement of flood victims, and promised to send the report to the Alhaji Aliko Dangote-led national committee on flood disaster as well as the National Emergency Management Agency for study.

He however assured that his administration would work in collaboration with the State House of Assembly to raise more funds to deal with the situation.

“This problem is enormous for the state government to shoulder alone because it is not going to be easy for the state government to raise 10 billion naira for the reconstruction of infrastructures. The Federal government gave us 500 million naira grant but we have not touched the money as we have been spending funds from our coffers”.

Explaining that the state government had put measures in place to check flood occurrence, Dr Uduaghan said ‘’We are going to remove all structures blocking all water ways and any building permit on natural water ways will be revoked and the building pulled down with government sanctioning the officer responsible”.

Membership of the Prof Arubayi led-Committee was drawn entirely from the departments at the Sate owned DELSU.

The Delta state contingent to the forthcoming National School Sports Festival scheduled for January 27 to February 2, 2013 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State have promised to win more medals for the state.

The 315 athletes and 70 officials declared: Yes! We Can when the Delta state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Prof. Patrick Muoboghare addressed the contigent on Tuesday, January 24, 2013 at the Anglican Girls Grammar School (AGGS) take-off ground in Asaba.

The 16th Sports of the 5th edition of merger games from Delta state boasts of 315 athletes, selected from Primary and Secondary schools in the 25 local government areas of the state had been in camp from between January 20 and 24.

One of the officials, Coach Odibeli revealed that trials were conducted at the various schools, local governments, zonal and state levels in three categories in Under 13, 14 and 15 respectively.

Blank NEWS Online sources however said that some athletes were also disqualified on age, health and size grounds.

While addressing the contingent before their departure to Port Harcourt, the state Commissioner encouraged the coaches to be up and doing in their task to ensure victory at the tournament.

He also told the elated athletes that they would be honoured as ambassadors of the state if they become triumphant in the different games of the tournament.

Speaking on the challenges ahead of the tournament, Prof. Muoboghare said: “The challenge is the regular challenges we have had, where the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will be competing for trophies in different games and we are just one of them.

“Actually the challenge is that Delta state has always come first in the past tournaments and we cannot afford to come second”, adding that “only recently our senior teams did wonders in Lagos and we cannot do less than that.”

The Commissioner who commended Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan for ensuring adequate preparations said, “You saw the spirit in these children, they want the competition to start now. Whatever they need throughout the tournament will be provided by the state government and we are fully ready to do do so because the children have been placed under our care by their parents.”

He confirmed that the athletes have been on and off in the camps at the various zones, disclosed that, “it was when the date for the competition was confirmed for Port Harcourt that we decided to bring them to a central place. Some were at the Asaba Township stadium, AGGS, Owashi-Uku and Obiaruku for swimming.”

According to Prof. Patrick Muoboghare, who personally co-ordinated the contigents’ take-off, “We are very ready. In Delta state we don’t send athletes out without adequate preparations. If we could do that for adults, we will do double for children. Don’t forget that these children are without their parents right now. We are their parents and we must make sure that whatever they need in Port Harcourt is provided.”

On the expectations at the National School Sports Festival, Prof. Muoboghare insisted: “We are poised for the number one position. We shall come out tops.”

Delta state Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan has taken swipe at the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), urging it to further build on its dwindling image which is presently at stake and put the profession in the forefront of the nation’s polity.

Uduaghan made the observation during a coutesy call on him by a national delegation of NMA at the Exco Chambers of the new Government House, Asaba on Monday, January 21, 2012, lamenting that “the image of the Nigeria Medical Association has been of great concern to me”, especially as it concerns industrial strike actions.

Uduaghan, who explained that the Delta state government was determined to pay the medical practitioners what is due them, appealed to them for understanding of government policies and strategies, considering the immense responsibilities accruing to government from other sectors of the economy.

The governor, however expressed delight with the new leadership of Dr. Osahon Enabulele by involving past presidents of the association in the moderation of the activities of the medical professional body.

Uduaghan disclosed that the state government is placing emphasis on the development of Delta state beyond oil through adequate provision of medical services and infrastructure to make the state medical tourist centre.

He pointed out that within 18 months, his administration in conjunction with a foreign based expertise would have established services for renal transplant at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara.

Meanwhile, the National President of the NMA, Dr. Osahon Enabulele said the choice of Asaba, the Delta state capital for the 1st National Health Summit was because the state has delivered on its mandate in health care delivery system, adding that the summit with its 15 thematic areas intends to advance the health sector as well as the national development of Nigeria.

While commending Dr. Uduaghan for creating an enabling platform for the summit, the NMA President said: “We have a locus for self introspection and determined to drive collaboration with the Delta state government and the people of Nigeria by providing expertise assistance.”

Dr. Enabulele, who called for a sustained and formidable reforms in governance, urged other leaders and governors to take a cue from Delta state in setting standard in health care delivery.

The Hilltop flotilla of De Norsemen Club of Nigeria has congratulated the Transition Committee Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta state, Hon. Innocent Esewezie (Zeze) on his appointment by the state governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan.

While pledging total support to the the new Local Government boss, members of the  Hilltop flotilla expressed optimism that Hon. Innocent Esewezie’s administration will usher in a new leadership, development and transformation agenda in Oshimili North, as he has already keyed into the three-point agenda of Governor Uduaghan.

In a statement made available to Blank NEWS Online in Asaba, the Hilltop flotilla of De Norsemen Club of Nigeria commended Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan and the state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barr. Peter Nwaoboshi for appointing Hon. Esewezie to pilot the affairs of the council and the local government, adding that his appointment was timely, as it has further guaranteed the people that Hon. Esewezie’s  proven integrity and leadership qualities were not in doubt.

The leadership of the Hilltop flotilla also thanked the Transition Committee Chairman for appointing Mr. Aniemeka Chibueze Pino, a frontline youth leader in the local government as a Supervisory Councillor and member of the Caretaker Transition Committee.

They described the appointment of Mr. Aniemeka Chibueze Pino as a welcome development, saying that his political experience and that of the council boss would speed up development in all parts of Oshimili North local governmant area, especially in ensuring peaceful co-existence and completion of on-going projects.

The Hilltop flotilla of De Norsemen Club of Nigeria therefore appealed to the people of the local governemnt at home and in the Diaspora to give full support and co-operation to the present administration led by Hon. Innocent Esewezie (Zeze) and his executive in their determination to provide democracy dividends.

Delta State Commissioner for Education (Basic and Secondary), Prof. Patrick Muoboghare has urged parents to encourage their children to read their books.

The Commissioner made the call at the weekend through the Chief Inspector of Education (C.I.E.) in Ndokwa West Local Government Area, Mr Austin Onochie while receiving 100 seats and desks donated by Ugiliamai Development Initiative (UDI) to be used by pupils of Asamala Primary School, Ugiliamai in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of the state.

According to Prof. Muoboghare, it was important for parents to encourage their children to read, assuring that government has put measures in place to ensure that teachers in primary and secondary schools in the state are not found wanting.

He commended the members of UDI for their initiative as such was to complement government efforts towards the provision of infrastructure to schools in the state.

Earlier, the coordinator of UDI, Chief George Okpala said the association which is made of eight indigenes of Ugiliamai community donated the chairs because of the need to for pupils of Asamala Primary School to have seats and desks.

He urged the Delta State government to fence the primary school to curb the menace of encroachment on the primary school land and ensure security and conducive learning environment for pupils of the school.

Chief Okpala also, used the occasion to appeal to the state government to renovate dilapidated blocks of classrooms and rebuild fallen ones in the school.

Deltans have been urged to expect more infrastructural development in this fiscal year.

The member representing Ndokwa West constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Azuka Azaka gave the assurance while speaking at donation of 100 seats and desks by Ugiliamai Development Initiative (UDI) to be used by pupils of Asamala Primary School, Ugiliamai in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of the state.  The occasion took place at the weekend at the primary school premises.

According to Hon. Azaka who was responding to a call by the coordinator of UDI, Chief George Okpala for the asphalting of the less than 4 km Ugilama/Ossissa road, there was good provision for infrastructure development and urged the people of the state to be patient and think positively.

The lawmaker, noted that government has a lot of challenges in terms of provision of infrastructure due too competing demands, but assured that the state would witness massive development this fiscal year.

Hon. Azaka emphasized that the Ugiliamai/Ossissa road would get government attention because of its socio-economic benefits to communities that make use of the road, disclosing that he would liaise with different organs of government including the Direct Labour Agency (DLA) to ensure speedy tarring of the road.

He stated that in the interim, he would work towards the opening up of the road by grading it, emphasizing that it is an important road the connects many communities together.

Chief Okpala had in his speech, stated that the road is very important because it links so many communities together, adding that the recent flood that ravaged coastal communities in the state had made it obvious that the community deserves motorable link roads.

He commended Hon. Azaka for being a true representative of the people and urged him to always consult his constituency and engage in actions which would bring development to his constituency.

DELTA State Commissioner for Energy, Hon. Charles Emetulu has said electricity generation is the responsibility of the Federal Government but that the state government was assisting to boost the supply.

According to Emetulu, the Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan-led administration in the state has procured more than three hundred transformers to be distributed to different communities in the state in the administration’s desire to boost electricity supply.

The commissioner dropped the hint while responding to the cry by the coordinator of Ugiliamai Development Initiative (UDI), Chief George Okpala that the people of the community have been without electricity supply the donation of 100 seats and desks donated by the association to be used by pupils of Asamala Primary School, Ugiliamai in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of the state.

Hon. Emetulu who was represented at the occasion by his Special Assistant, Hon. John Obi stated that electricity supply is very vital for the socio-economic advancement of the people and urged the people of Ugiliamai to formally make their request to the Ministry of Power and Energy.

He disclosed that many communities have requested for transformer but, government was yet to start their distribution, stating that appropriate measures would be taken to ensure that the transformers are given to areas where they are needed.

Chief Okpala had decried lack of electricity supply to the community by the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), noting that electricity supply plays vital roles in the socio-economic life of the people.
He observed that it was important for the Delta State government to come to the aid of the people of the community.

The occasion was attended by the cream of the community including the member representing Ndokwa West constituency in the House of Assembly, Hon. Azuka Azaka, the Chairman, Transition Committee for the local government area, Barr. Emmanuel Egri-Okwaji who was represented by Hon. Albert Nwose, among others.

Delta State Government has set a target of three weeks for the issuance of Certificate of Occupancy (C Of O) on all government allocated lands and three months for private lands.

The move, according to  the State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan is to woo fleeing  private investors who had abandoned plans to invest in the state due to delay in processing the C Of O.

Besides, the Government has directed that with effect from Tuesday (Jan 8, 2013) this week, any building commenced without a valid building permit would be pulled down without notice.

Governor Uduaghan, who announced these decisions on Wednesday in Asaba during the State Economic Dashboard meeting, explained that it was part of measures to sanitize the system and make it more efficient and result-oriented.

The meeting which is a peer review mechanism, makes for self evaluation of government performance, the deficiencies and how to overcome such deficiencies and improve on the areas of strength of the ministries, departments and agencies.

According to the Governor, indiscriminate erection of buildings without valid permits was responsible for uncontrolled urbanization, flooding, sanitation challenges and other environmental problems faced in most towns and cities across the state.

“Beginning from yesterday (Tuesday) if a building is started without a building approval or permit, the building will be pulled down. An approval must be gotten from the Ministry of Lands before the construction of any building is commenced”, he stated.

Similarly, any official found wanting in the issuance of a building permit when such permits should have been denied, would be sanctioned.

On C of O, the Governor said that targets of three weeks and two months have been set for government lands and private lands respectively to get a certificate issued.

“A target has been set that when an applicant puts up an application for a certificate of occupancy for a private land, that applicant having done everything correctly must get the certificate of occupancy within two months. For a government land, the certificate of occupancy must be obtained within three weeks”.

He said that the measures have become necessary to remove the clogs hindering economic growth and development of the state as well as enable the government achieve its dream of building a state with less dependence on oil revenue.

In addition, Dr Uduaghan said that these measures would attract investors and tourists to the state thereby increasing the revenue profile.

Also, he announced that the laws establishing the State Waste Management Board and the State Direct Labour Agency would be reviewed to make them report directly to the Ministry of Environment and Works respectively to eliminate conflicts and make for better service delivery.

The governor said the state Environmental Protection Agency (DELSEPA) would be organized and strengthened for better service delivery adding that a waste re-cycling plant would be installed in the next six months and nine months in Asaba and Warri.

He disclosed that the relevant bills would soon be sent to the House of Assembly to give legal teeth to the envisaged changes, promising to relocate the Asaba dump site presently disturbing activities around the Asaba International airport.

“We are going to manage cleanliness in Asaba to ensure that all streets are kept clean. We will also not allow the walk ways to be abused because presently mechanics and petty traders are abusing the walk ways.”

In a bid to avoid impending air mishaps, the Delta state government has ordered the immediate  relocation of the state refuse dump site in Asaba, the state capital, due to its nearness to the Asaba International Airport as well as posing flight danger to airplanes while landing and taking-off.

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, while disclosing the plot to move the dump site to another area, ordered the state Ministry of Environment to make sure that the directive becomes effective to avoid unwarranted air mishaps at the airport.

The state governor‘s statement forms part of the outcome of his ongoing peer review mechanism initiative, tagged “Delta state Economic Dashboard”, at the Government House Asaba.

According to him, “One of the issues we looked at in the course of our discussions is about the Asaba refuse dump site. It has become necessary to relocate the dump site which is too close to the Airport as fire and smoke from burnt waste could disrupt flights.

“The Ministry of Environment is to relocate the dump site to another area within a very short time.”

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State has handed over 30 Toyota Hilux vehicles to the State police command as a new initiative to curb criminal activities in the State commences operations.

The initiative, Delta State Government Special Security Patrol is part of measures to ensure that crimes like kidnapping and armed robbery were reduced to the barest minimum.

The 30 Toyota Hilux vehicles handed over to give teeth to the resolve to make the state peaceful and secured, have been specifically designated for patrol and surveillance of given routes and highways across the state.

Handing over the vehicles to the police, Dr Uduaghan noted that the rate of kidnapping was coming down in the state and promised to continue to intensify efforts towards providing adequate security in the state.

He said he would provide a safe haven for investors and guarantee peace and security so that prospective investors would operate in a conducive atmosphere.

The Governor said the present effort was to beef up security and sustain the success already recorded in the state especially the reduction in kidnapping.

He explained that the vehicles have been assigned to different routes across the state to ensure that all areas in the state were adequately monitored and secured.

“We are doing this to guarantee peace and security and to ensure that crime rate is drastically reduced. We will increase our effort in the provision of logistics for security operatives to enable them cope with the challenges in crime prevention”.

He commended Local Government Chairmen in the state for supporting the efforts of the State Government especially for assisting security operatives to maintain peace and security.

The governor also commended security operatives in the state for their efforts in reducing crime especially kidnapping which he said had reduced significantly.

Receiving the vehicles the State Commissioner of Police, Ikechukwu Aduba warned criminals to turn a new leaf and become law abiding citizens because his men would get them if they failed to heed his warning.

He commended the Governor Uduaghan for providing the vehicles and assured that the vehicles would be properly utilized to combat crime.

“We will chase away criminals from the state. I warn criminals to leave the state because if they fail to we will get them anywhere they are hiding. I restate that there will be no hiding place for them”.

The Delta State Board of Internal Revenue (DBIR), has on Tuesday blacklisted two erring banks, Union Bank and Diamond Bank  from the list of IGR collecting banks in Delta State for alleged unethical banking procedures.

Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, Executive Chairman of the Board said in his office in Asaba that the action was due to media reports of alleged N1.1billion missing from DBIR accounts.

According to him, an investigation was instituted and the findings implicated the two collecting banks for the State’s internally generated revenue (IGR), adding that “The Delta State Board of Internal Revenue wishes to inform the general public that, the board has black-listed Union bank and Diamond bank as IGR collecting banks for Delta state.

He alleged that the blacklisted banks had failed to remit N1.1billion tax revenue paid into its accounts several days after a multinational oil giant, Chevron Nigeria Limited, paid the money through the servicing banks.

“Hence forth all our accounts in Union bank and Diamond bank are here by closed and all other business transactions terminated.

“We advise tax payers to use any of the board’s numerous accounts in other banks.

“Any tax payer who deals with these two banks, does that at his own risk.”

Joel-Onowakpo Thomas explained that the action became necessary after the two banks deliberately delayed release of fund paid by a tax paying organization. “Our preliminary investigation revealed that the said fund was not only delayed beyond the stipulated time as proscribed by the law, but also fell far below international best practice.”

The Executive Chairman, however said that the DBIR had earlier warned all IGR banks of sanctions, should any bank fail to credit the board’s account in line with the stipulated laws.

He therefore called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to urgently investigate this issue to ascertain whether the conduct of these banks were in line with international best banking practices.

It was revealed that  the multinational  oil company mandated its bank, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc (UBN) and Diamond Bank Plc  to credit N1.1 billion into the  Delta State Government  account through  its collecting  bank  but was shocked that  the amount  said to have been paid  since December  27, 2012 , has not been  credited.

Joel-Onowakpo Thomoas, disclosed that while Chevron  strongly held to  her  claims  that the money  had been  successfully  transferred  into DBIR account, the two banks  had  also insisted that the fund has not been  received,  which prompted the two banks to trade blame.

He said at a point, Union Bank acknowledged receiving the money from Chevron and that the said money had been remitted to the state’s Diamond Bank account while Diamond Bank denied receipt of such fund.

“Both banks “played smart” by holding on to the money since December 27, 2012, more than the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)  stipulated period of time before remitting  the fund into Delta State Government‘s coffers on January 7, 2013.

“The actions of both banks constitute lack of transparency  in revenue collection. A lot of funds have been  lost in the past  with such sharp practices.”

“The most worrisome aspect is not keeping the funds but the denial by the two banks that the money was not with them. It is obvious that the banks did not leave up to expectations and both banks are liable. “Having issued out several warnings in the past in respect of this practice of holding on to the board’s money, it is with heart filled with sympathy that we are using the two banks as scapegoats to serve as deterrent to others who are involved in the unwholesome practice.

“If we have to survive in this harsh environment, we have to blacklist the two banks as our revenue collection banks. That means that our accounts with the two banks have been closed with immediate effect,” he stated. Management of Diamond Bank Plc and Union Bank Plc had before now been trading blames over the whereabout of the money.”