The Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) has fixed its National Convention for May 25, 2013.

A statement signed by the party’s Director of Media and Publicity, Abubakar Ateeku Yusuf, on behalf of the National Chairman, Major Gen.Bashir Salihi Magashi (rtd), has revealed.

The recent statement made available to Blank NEWS Online reads:

“Resolution of the NEC Meeting of DPP held at the Gracious Hotel; Abuja: At an emergency meeting of DPP held on 9th May,2013, presided over by its National chairman; Major Gen.Bashir Salihi Magashi (rtd), decided that:

(1) The Merger Committee formed as a result of the resolution of the february 13 NEC Meeting is hereby disbanded and a new committee to be Appointed to Continue the merger Negotiations with Other Political Party’s.

(2) The NEC Expelled Mr. Olusameka Akamukali former Acting Deputy National Chairman Of the Party for Anti-Party Activities and Gross Misconduct and the NEC have Accordingly appointed a new deputy National chairman to replaced him in the person of Mr. Gashon Benson from Rivers State.

(3)The Party resolved to hold its National Convention on 25/5/2013 in Abuja.

In the wake of the recent uprising between the people of Ogume Clan in Ndokwa West local government area of Delta state and Hausa/Fulani herdsmen, the state government has reassured of efforts to curtail the excesses of herdsmen whose cattle allegedly destroy farmlands in parts of the state.

The State Government which denied there was a siege of any sort, also assured that all the victims during the last clash which claimed some lives would be adequately compensated.

Reacting to a recent inciting security alert advertorial issued by Ogume Clan Development Association, in the aftermath of the wanton destruction of farmlands in Ogume clan by cattle belonging to Hausa/Fulani herdsmen, the state Commissioner for Information, Barr. Chike C. Ogeah Esq, said the Government of Delta State had waded into the issue in a bid to restore order and harmony between Ogume community and Hausa/Fulani herdsmen.

The statement titled “Re: Ogume Under Siege” and made available to Blank NEWS Online on Wednesday, May 8, 2013 reads:

“In an advertorial published in the Vanguard newspaper of Monday, May 6, 2013, the Ogume Clan Development Association drew the attention of the public to the security challenge in the area over the destruction of farmlands in the clan by cattle belonging to Fulani herdsmen.

“The Government of Delta State had waded into the issue on the outset and held meetings with leaders of the Ogume Clan and the herdsmen with a view to restoring order and harmony as acknowledged in the advertorial. Again, as rightly noted in the said publication by the Ogume Clan Development Association, the clan had lived harmoniously with the Fulani herdsmen whereby a piece of land was allocated to the herdsmen.

“The Government of Delta State has been liaising with all stakeholders and security agencies over the matter and wishes to reassure the Ogume Clan that measures are being taken to resolve the challenge and give succour to the farmers whose crops were damaged as well as those affected by the violent attacks by some renegade herdsmen. The State Government hereby assures the Ogume Clan and, indeed, every other community that provides grazing grounds for Fulani herdsmen that measures have been taken to ensure that the herdsmen are confined to the designated grazing areas.

“The Government appeals to the Ogume Clan and its leaders to remain calm as the dispute will soon be a thing of the past while succour will be provided to all that suffered any loss. These will be unveiled in the coming days.”

Delta state governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has said that Governors congregating under the aegis of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), engages more in activities beneficial to the people than mere insinuated politics.

Speaking against the backdrop of public criticisms that Governors use the NGF platform just to play politics, he said that the NGF was quietly fashioning out socioeconomic policies and programme that was impacting positively on the states and the people.

The Governor, who stated this at the inaugural meeting of the State Peer Review Mechanism (SPRM) of the NGF in Asaba yesterday, stressed that the public tend to see only the political side of the NGF.

For instance, he noted that the SPRM put in place to assist states carry out internal assessment of their various developmental strides and to improve in areas that they were not performing well.

“The Nigeria Governors’ Forum is more than just politics. It may be constituted by political individuals but the duties being executed goes beyond political matters as the forum carries out other activities beyond politics like this SPRM issue.

“There is the need to ensure that these other activities of the forum are properly reported by the media”.

He explained that results gotten from such SPRM were not meant to score or belittle any state’s developmental strides but would serve as an opportunity for states to showcase their achievements as well.

The governor stressed the need for more states in the country to key into the initiative explaining that it would serve as an avenue to share and exchange ideas on how best to improve their economy as well as the economy of the nation.

Dr Udughan expressed his appreciation on the arrival of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum team to the state, stating that their opinions would help in his administration’s goals in tackling areas of underdevelopment in the state.

He assured the Nigeria Governors’ Forum team of his administration’s commitment to the program.

In a brief speech, the Director General, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Mr. A.B. Okauru explained the objective of the team as an instrument to assist states in accelerating the pace of their development, through periodic reviews of progress in the implementation of their development policies.

He stated that such reviews would provide opportunity for Delta state to showcase its achievements as well as share their areas of challenges with the NGF review team.

Mr. Okauru commended the state government’s developmental and infrastructural strides especially in the establishment of the Micro credit scheme which has been rated as the best in the country as well as the state’s commitment to the emerging issues around climate change.

DELTA State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has decried the rise in effect of industrialization on the environment as well as the near neglect of superannuated technologies.

According to him, the effect which has taken its negative toll on the global climate is as a result of disinterest by the developed countries.

Speaking on Monday, April 29, 2013 in Asaba when he received a delegation of climate change experts who were on study tour of the state, the Governor said the State was committed to issues of the environment and the climate.

He said a situation where most outdated and harmful technologies end up in Africa and other developing countries especially, Nigeria was not acceptable, disclosing that it was one of the reasons his administration banned commercial motor cycles popularly called Okada in major cities of the state.

“Technologies that are not environmental friendly are brought to Africa,” Governor Uduaghan said, adding, that most of the equipment that were brought from the Far East were not friendly to the environment.

“There are countries that are committed to industrialization but how they industrialize does not matter to them, hence our resolve to do everything to protect and preserve our environment.

“In Delta State, we are taking the issues of climate change in different strides, we are taking the issues of advocacy seriously at different communities, especially the issue of slash and burn.”

He disclosed that communities in the state were being made to understand that what they burn in their farms can be turned to manure and used to make their soil more fertile.

Head of the Delta State Climate Change team, Mrs Felicia Adum said the Territorial Approach to Climate Change (TACC) seeks to aid vulnerable communities on the impact of climate change to enable them adjust and engage in environment-friendly actions.

Climate change experts, including Dennis Welch, Prof. Rosemary Okoh observed that it was important to protect the environment and reduce gas emission to the environment, adding that it was advantageous to walk than use of vehicles.

Gradual Death is very painful. It is better that a man falls down and die at once instead of dying gradually.

Warri/Delta state economy is facing serious recession because of then relocation of various companies from the oil rich city.

It has become a source of worry and concern for those who grew up in the oil rich city of Warri, as they live to see the area becoming a ghost of itself. This is as a result of the economic down turn of the city.

Before now, companies like Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Chevron, Schlumberger, Pan Ocean to mention but a few; were amongst the companies that attracted both local and international concerns. Individuals working in banks and other big establishments like shipping companies and haulage companies who saw the booming nature of the Warri environment were forced to change their base and relocated to the city, just as the area witnessed the growth of small and medium scale industries.

Suddenly the city began to experience the exodus of these multinational and international companies to other areas of their choice. The most recent and notable ones are SPDC, SCHLUMBERGER, PAN OCEAN e.t.c. who have moved their headquarters to Lagos, Port Harcourt and Benin city.

While all these are going on in Warri and Delta state in general, the state government and rich individuals from the state, never give a hoot to this ignoble act. Rather than taking steps to forestall this, they have seen it as an opportunity to enrich themselves the more as it have been revealed that these group of people were busy buying off SPDC facilities like the Hospital, office and juicy facilities in Edjeba.

One vital question begging for answer is the role of government in our society. There is no gainsaying the fact that one of the major role of government is to create an enabling environment for business to thrive, job creation/reduction of unemployment. It is also the responsibility of government to protect lives and properties. Government that is alive to it’s responsibilities will do all that is expected of it and in return benefit from taxes and revenue paid by individuals and companies operating in the state.

But the reverse is now the case as these companies have relocated to other states because the state government has not lived up to expectation. As a result of this, what we have are societal vices such as kidnapping, threat to lives and property, bad roads and filthy environment, communal threats emanating from area boys who often demand for high developmental levies popularly called “ deve” from prospective investors.

It will not be out of place to conclude that those saddled with the responsibility of overseeing the growth of our economy and ensuring that freedom of movement is guaranteed, have woefully failed us. What could one say of the rich people who are having maximum security, going about with uniform/armed gun men? This is equivalent to saying that they are in prison because they lack freedom even in their villages. Consequently, the relocation of these companies have left behind it’s wake high rate of unemployment, increase in crime and criminality, impoverishment of the people, low internally generated revenue ( IGR) and desertion of the city and it’s environs. We hereby call on the Delta state government to face the situation headlong by taking steps that will not only address the high rate of crime in the society but make efforts to see that more multinational companies are attracted back to the state.

We hereby call on the state government to look into this situation as a matter of urgency to revamp this ailing economy which has the capacity to affect our generation yet unborn.

*Oghogoviano Omochoja Writes From Warri, Delta State, Nigeria.

I have done several articles on Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi and his administration in Rivers State, published by some of the leading social media outfits and National Newspapers, where I highlighted his revolution on Education, Health, Security, prudent management of State funds, Road infrastructure to mention a few. But the task before me now is to establish the toga of a villain been placed on him in order to crucify him or the heroic moniker on him in some quarters based on the current political upheaval in Rivers State. Although some see a villain as an antagonist, the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, defines a villain as “a cruelly malicious person who is involved in or devoted to wickedness or crime; scoundrel; or a character in a play, novel, or the like, who constitutes an important evil agency in the plot”. A hero, on the other hand, according to Dictionary.com is defined as, “a man of distinguished courage or ability, admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities; person who in the opinion of others, has heroic qualities or has performed a heroic act and is regarded as a role model or ideal”.

Sadly enough, those who want Amaechi to be pushed out of office describe him as being arrogant, power drunk, evil, possessive and a stumbling block to their political agenda without minding the constitutional consequences. Rather than addressing serious issues, such as the lingering insecurity in some parts of the country, where the lives of innocent Nigerian has little or no meaning, the massive corruption under the incumbent Federal Government recently captured aptly by the United States Government. Nigeria is also being confronted with the menace of unemployment amongst our teeming graduates and youths, breakdown of institutional infrastructure, the list is endless.

This grandstanding and view of Amaechi as a villain that must be taught some political lessons seem to be the major concern of these powerful hands in the country. This prevailing state of affairs seem to lend credence to the views in some quarters that the judgement of the Abuja High Court presided over by Bello which ousted the duly elected PDP Executive of Chief Godspower Ake leave much to be desired. The national dailies are awash with moves by the Presidency to curry the favour of the Governors to ensure that Amaechi is not re-elected Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), even while the constitution of the forum allows an incumbent chairman to seek re-election. What crime has Amaechi committed to warrant all these attacks?

Much as one would not like to dabble into the unfortunate turn of events in the Rivers State PDP, one is challenged by the words of Nobel laureate and world renowned author, Prof Wole Soyinka who in his famous book the ‘Man Died’ said “The man dies in all who keep silent in the face of tyranny”. Doesn’t the above quotation underscores the macabre dance being displayed in the politics of Rivers State revolving round Governor Amaechi, that those who ought to speak out at this time prefer to watch the unfolding events from the sideline to avoid being dubbed pro-Amaechi.

This intolerable situation may have prompted one great mind residing in Port Harcourt, Mrs. Ohunene Scott-Ananaba in her lamentation titled “POLITRICKS RIVERS STATE STYLE” wept and inquired, “Where are all these people who stood on the stage with Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi on that sunny day at the Rivers State College of Science field in Rumuola at the Obio-Akpor leg of the ‘Change you can see’ Campaign in 2011. Ha! Where are all those that spoke valiantly that day when I took this picture one of hundreds? Where is the Bulldozer Sargeant Awuse who was ready to follow you to the end? where is Nyesom Wike who anchored your campaign, where is Honourable Dakuku Peterside where is Magnus Abe where is Dawari George where is Tele Ikuru? Governor Rotimi Amaechi,where are they? Where are the Chindas et al. If any of them are still with you let them identify openly here and now or hold their peace. I wonder if anyone of them would have conceded to you the way Prince Tonye Princewill did in 2007, yet the same people drove a wedge between you and him”?

Now that Amaechi seem to be a leper and a villain and to demonstrate your political power and patriotism it becomes ideal and wise to keep off from him at this period but one can take solace in the wise stand of Benjamin Disraeli famous quotation that “There is no act of treachery or meanness of which a political party is not capable; for in politics there is no honour”. According to one of the best minds in Journalism from Rivers State while reacting to Nene’s lamentation counselled those aspiring to be politicians to learn from the political development in Rivers State. They should also engrave it in their heart these words by Tennessee Williams: “We have to distrust each other. It’s our only defense against betrayal.”

Nene my sister, you need not weep so much because one with God is in the majority! Amaechi is not an ordinary human being except you have lost track of his background and his rise to his present state and I am convinced that God who saw him through in the past will surely see him through now. But if you are not counselled then read 11Timothy 3: 1-4 (“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy. Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good. Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God”). Come to think of it, Amaechi is not alone after all considering the backlash from key stakeholders in the crude oil and gas rich State! The Rivers State House of Assembly, the Traditional Council of Chiefs, members of the National Assembly from the State, the Rivers State indigenes resident in Abuja, the State Chapter of the Association of Local Government Chairmen, (ALGON) and other segments of the State are with him as demonstrated during the historical solidarity visit on April 20, 2013, where a mammoth crowd gathered to re-assure him (Amaechi) of their support at this period of his trial. In a similarly show of love and solidarity, women in the State gathered on April 22, 2013 to commit the political situation and the Governor to God who is the only one that can truly decides the fate of man. The embattled Chief G.U.Ake, the ousted PDP Chairman throw more light on why the political imbroglio is been staged in Rivers State, “my ouster though temporary is targeted actually against Amaechi”.

According to Malcolm X, “To me the thing that is worse than death is betrayal. You see, I could conceive death, but I could not conceive betrayal”. In line with this fact of life among civilised people and capturing the happenings in Rivers State aptly, an illustrious son of the State and former Minister of Petroleum Resources Prof. Tam David-West described Amaechi’s “orchestrated travails” as unfortunate in view of the fact that the governor has worked hard enough in restoring the glory of Port-Harcourt, also known as the Garden City of Nigeria. To the University Don, Amaechi’s travails is “Nigerian paradox “where excellence is relegated and mediocrity is elevated. “I’m particularly worried about the trend, not only because I am a Rivers State elder, not only because I am a strong supporter of Amaechi without any regret, I am also worried as a Nigerian because what is happening to Amaechi underscores a terrible Nigerian paradox, which I call the paradox of excellence. We support him because those of us who grew up in Port Harcourt as a famous “Garden City” knew how the city changed to a rotten city. And Amaechi, who is also a Port Harcourt boy, returned the city back to its glorious “Garden City” status. Any person that does not realize this is not only blind but terrible.” This great Sage reminded Amaechi’s opponents that he who laughs last, laughs best, stating with emphasis that the governor would laugh last because his first name, Chibuike means “God is strength.”

in recognition of the feats of the Governor, the Council of Traditional Rulers in Rivers State through its Chairman and Gbenemene Tai Kingdom, His Majesty King GNK Gininwa OFR, JP in a well advertised advertorial to Governor Amaechi on his recent Vanguard Personality of the year award stated, “All the traditional Rulers in the state are proud of your various achievements. This award is an addition to many more you will receive and a reward for your steadfast leadership because as a detribalized Nigerian, you are simply a big fish in a big sea and no man can stop you. Keep up the pace”

on the other hand, the National President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Abdulwaheed Omar has described Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State as a pillar of democracy in the current dispensation. Omar spoke when he led a delegation of top NLC officials on a courtesy call on the Governor in Port Harcourt at the weekend.

The NLC President and other members were in the Rivers State capital for a conference to elect new executive of the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Service, Technical and Recreational Services (AUCPTRC). Omar said: “Nigerians are watching. Nigerians are very, very intelligent people. They are watching, they know things, they know what is happening (to Amaechi) and they are also passing their own judgment. “You have been one of the major pillars of democracy in this dispensation and we always like to in our only small way, associate with good things, especially when I recall that when I was here last, you decided to show me some of the projects, that at that time, a lot of them were not even completed but by the time we arrived this time and we passed through some of them, especially primary schools are completed. “I have not seen any where the children in public primary schools are learning under such very conducive atmosphere. This is what is required of democracy, for leadership to provide the dividends of democracy to the people practically, not theoretically, and I think that is very abundant in Rivers State. We believe in what you are doing because we have seen it and we only want to urge you to continue in that direction”.

A cursory look at some of the issues and opinions shows that the ‘villain’ toga does not suit Amaechi, however, let me attempt to bring it to the fore what Amaechi truly is, after looking at his giants strides and achievements in Rivers State from 2007 when he came into office as the State Chief Executive and ponder if the heroic toga fits him. The real verdict will be known sooner than later!

Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi a humanist, administrator par excellence, visionary, egalitarian, radical, respected, a pragmatist and exemplary leader was born on May 27, 1965 in Ubima, in Ikwere local government area of Rivers State and is an alumnus of the University of Port Harcourt in Rivers State. He was the Rivers State Speaker of the State House of Assembly from 1999-2007; Chairman, conference of speakers of State Houses of Assembly in Nigeria (1999 – 2000), Governor of Rivers State (2007 – date), current Chairman of the Governors’ Forum in Nigeria. A winner of several awards including the Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON.

To capture the current rating of Amaechi in the political psyche of Nigerians, the recent award as the personality of the Year for 2012 on him by the Vanguard’s Newspaper says it all.  This was an event aptly captured by the great Aristotle the famous Greek critic, Philosopher, Physicist and Zoologist as far back as 366 BC; “In the arena of human life the honours and rewards fall to those who show their good qualities in action”. This extraordinary thinker as if not satisfied with the above feat went further to state and I quote, “Dignity does not consist in possessing honours, but in deserving them”. This is awesome and breath-taking as the stand and postulations of the great Aristotle came into play on 6th April, 2013 at a colourful event held at the famous and prestigious Expo Centre, Eko Hotels and suites in Lagos where Nigeria and Nigerians stood still to celebrate one of her bests, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi CON, Governor of Rivers State and Chairman of Governors’ Forum of Nigeria, a forum comprising of other 36 Governors in Nigeria.

This historical event beamed live in most of the key network channels of AIT, Channels, Silverbird and public broadcaster, NTA was chaired by one time President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babaganida where Vanguard Newspapers gave reasons why Governor Amaechi was honoured, “Amaechi is being honoured for his widely acknowledged developmental strides which have seen noteworthy improvements in infrastructure and the impartation of governance on all sectors of the society in Rivers State. Governor Amaechi’s development strides have been observed as going beyond infrastructure improvements in sectors such as roads, electricity, sports, new towns and such like, to life touching and human capacity development initiatives such as education, healthcare among other economic boosting endeavours”.

In line with the thought of Susan RoAne, “Rewards go to the risk-takers, those who are willing to put their egos on the line and reach out to other people and to a richer, fuller life for themselves”. I will like just to highlight few areas that have made Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi not only unique but a pointer to the fact that we still have hope about the future of our nation not minding the challenges and obstacles.

EDUCATION:-

The standard set by the administration of Gov Amaechi in Rivers State is a big challenge both to the Federal Government and other States of the Federation. The State has won several awards in this regard. From records, the government is targeting building 700 model primary schools with 500 completed each with 20 classrooms costing N3.1Billion each and equipped with ICT facility, modern library, science laboratory, football field, basketball pitch, volleyball pitch and Nursery playground. These model Primary schools are built to the standard of the United Nations and obtainable in developed parts of the world. It is also building 24 model secondary schools across the 23 local government councils in the state; well-structured and fully equipped with modern day educational, recreation and boarding facilities with standard housing for teachers, these secondary schools have grossly been referred to by observers as Universities. The government is currently running free primary education with free books and uniform, provisions of library and internet facilities for the primary schools. The Rivers State Government has been adjudged the best performing state in the Education sector within the South-South zone.

In recognition of this the Federal Ministry of Education has rewarded the state with the sum of N70 million for its performance. The process of employing extra 13,000 Teachers has been concluded. The State has offered scholarships to over 2,000 students in Nigerian Higher Institutions and has spent about N5bn for her students in foreign Intuitions. The State is building a world Class University which when completed will turn out well equipped graduates that will hold their own in any field and compete with the best in the world.

THE JUDICIARY

Contributions to the Judiciary by Amaechi are awesome and overwhelming. My good friend, Ken O.Olumati a legal counsel based in Port Harcourt in an article he titled, ‘Ameachi’s Debt to the Law’ captured what Amaechi has done to improve the judiciary in Nigeria. He stated that, “It is noteworthy that the various decisions of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal in Governor Amaechi’s case were reported in Parts 1040 and 1065 of the Nigeria Weekly Law Reports. In Part 1065 alone contains six decisions on Amaechi’s case; three by the Supreme Court and three by the Court of Appeal. This in itself underscores the significance of Amaechi’s battles through the courts. Few cases have enjoyed similar attention in the annals of Nigeria’s legal institution. Some of them include the case between Amodu Tijani V Secretary, Southern Nigeria, and the late Oba Oyekan’s legal battle for the Obaship of Lagos in the 1950’s, which went as far as Her Majesty’s Privy Council before a clear winner was installed. In recent memory, the case of the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi against the Nigeria Bar Association as well as his numerous court battles against the Military Government of former President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.

HEALTH

Under the Rivers State Government, tremendous revolution in the Health sector is taking place; the Government is offering free health services to all her citizenry in all government owned hospitals or health centers. To achieve this, Government has Constructed 160 Health Centres in all the LGAs and construction of 1000 bed specialist hospital with other special intervention in this area. These facilities are available free of charge to both indigenes and none indigenes residing in the State. The Health sector today is about one of the foremost employers of labour in Rivers State. The State has gone into the medical industry as she is about developing an area in part of the Greater Port Harcourt city to be called the Medical Industrial Region where the syringe factory, the malaria diagnostic and test tube factory shall be situated.

So far, about 100 medical Doctors have been employed to staff most of the Health Centres in the rural areas. The Rivers State Government has currently embarked upon the exercise to eradicate malaria vectors from the State. The Health Centre at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology will soon be opened to the public. The State was lauded last year for its daily commissioning of a health centre over a 60 day period in 60 communities in its 60-60-60 initiative. The Dental Hospital located in the Garrison area of Port Harcourt is now opened. All of these will also generate employment amongst the youths in the State. Rivers State Government says it has concluded arrangements to commence a partnership with the Economic Community of West African States for the production of Biolarvicides to control and eliminate malaria in the state. Few weeks ago, Rivers State was adjudged the best state of the federation in the area of malaria elimination and control programme.

STEPS TO ALLEVIATE UNEMPLOYMENT SCOURGE IN RIVERS STATE

Apart from concluding plans to employ 13 thousands Teachers, below are some other plans highlighted by Amaechi that will hopefully alleviate unemployment:

He stated that the Rivers State Government has signed a long lease contract with Siat Firm to revamp and manage the RISONPALM. According to him, when fully operational it would create about 4,000 job opportunities.

Additionally, the Rivers State Government has commenced paper work to establish and develop a N20bn Agric Scheme. According to him, “The scheme would encompass a settlement and cluster units in different areas of agriculture and is geared towards providing jobs for the teeming youths of our State”. He said the project is expected to have about 300 housing units, a processing industry and primary schools. This multi-billion Naira Agricultural Scheme will be splintered into three areas of the State housing 100 families each in the 100 housing units to be constructed. Construction is now on-going to construct a multi-purpose Shopping Mall located at the Front gate axis of the Government House. On completion the mall will employ about 600 youths.

The state is embarking on establishing a Banana Farm at Ogoni where about 200 workers will be engaged.

The Rivers State Government has established a Fish farm at Buguma where many youths are today engaged.

He reiterated government’s commitment to revamp most of its ailing companies to create jobs for the youths based on Public/private partnership to avert the pitfalls of the old system. In this regard, both the SUPABOD and the Olympia Hotel will soon be leased out.

SECURITY

You can only appreciate what Gov Amaechi achieved in this sector if you know of the security challenges facing the State before he assumed office as the Governor. Find time to read my article on this sector titled “AMAECHI: SECURITY CHALLENGES IN RIVERS STATE, HIS STRATEGIES & SCORECARD” to grasp the full impact of the inputs of the Governor in this regard.

All the same, the State has purchase two equipped and modern Helicopters for aerial surveillance to fight crime in the State. To the Governor, “inability of elected leaders to provide adequate security for the citizenry is an impeachable offense.

PUBLIC POWER SUPPLY

The Power Sector in the State is working tirelessly to ensure an end to epileptic power supply in the State by the year 2013 this would also serve to boost employment in the state and will also encourage entrepreneurship among the Youths. Apart from all these the Rivers State Government has built three power stations at Omoku (150 Mega watts), Trans-Amadi (130 Mega watts) and Eleme (75 mega watts). By June, 2013, capacity will be increased to 500 Mega Watts under the $195 million dollars 180 MW gas turbine awarded to Saipem. Seven Transmissions stations (132/33 kilo volts) and 7 Distribution injection sub-stations 33/11 Kilo Volts built.

AGRICULTURE

Four fish farms-buguma, Andoni, Opobo and Ubima. Banana Farm in Ogoni-100 hectares have been done out of the total 250 hectares. It will employ about 500 workers. Rivers Songhai learning initiative has a centre for training, agricultural production, research and development of sustainable agricultural practices. The farm project sits on a 314-hectares land in Bunu-Tai, an agrarian community in Tai Local Government Area of the state.

It is about 20 times the size of the Songhai model in Porto Novo – an integrated farm which combines livestock, arable farming, fishery, snail farming and poultry. There is a 2,000-hectare farm in Etche with a total available land space of 3,000 hectares. The farm is projected to cost $140 million. The state is investing $100m; the foreign partner $40 million. The farm would have 300 farming houses, agro processing and 3,000 hectares for cultivation. The 300 houses would accommodate 300 farming families who would live and work on the farm.

ROAD NETWORK

According to the Governor, “I don’t emphasize roads. There is just one road we are building now, the Trans-Amadi Road. It is going to take about three flyovers; one at Garrison, one at Slaughter and another at Nbogo Junction. It is going to cost N47 billion. It is 10 kilometers long. There is another new road we are going to build now to the airport to decongest Aba Road. It is going to cost N200 billion and fifty percent of that will be spent on bridges with about four flyovers and inter-changes.

The Rivers State Government has invested over N100b per year from 2008 till 2011 in provision of roads, bridges and Social amenities. In this regard, the Government has engaged in the construction of 800km roads with 250 already completed. 10 major bridges under construction with 3 already completed. 20 minor bridges under construction with four completed, 2flyover/interchange under construction. 6 Land reclamation/shore protection projects at Andoni, Opobo, Buguma, Abalama, Olombie/Owukiri Island, Oba Ama, Okirika with 1,1400,000km 2 completed. 2 major markets and a shopping mall under construction (phase 1 of mile 1 market housing 960 shops and two banking halls completed). dualisation of eight major roads in Port Harcourt – Rumola-Rumuokuta (completed), Oginigba-Rumuokbiakani Rd (completed), Eastern by pass-Amadi Amaa-Oginigba (reconstruction completed), Old Aba Road (80% completed), Elekahia-Rumuomasi (70% completed), Rumuokuta-NTA-Choba Rd (60& completed), Tam David-West Rd (80% completed), d mega-Airport-Isiokpo-Omerelu dualisation (42km Federal Rd, 50% completed), Rumukurusi-Eneka-Igwuruta Rd (ongoing), award of 850 km of roads, completion of 260km of roads. Two overhead bridges completed; two under construction, four bridges completed and four under construction. It is to the credit of this administration that very soon communities in the Riverine Areas hitherto inaccessible by road will be linked to the road network.

9. PREUDENT MANAGEMENT OF FINANCES OF RIVERS STATE

To demonstrate the high prudent management of recourses at the disposal of the State, It is on record that Rivers State has again been affirmed a ‘B’ international rating by leading international financial analysis agency, Standard and Poor’s (S & P) in a report released recently. The long-term outlook for the state is revised upwards from last year rating of “Stable” to “Positive” on the strength of significant ongoing infrastructural investments (in roads, ICT, health care, education and urban renewal) and relentless efforts to transform the public finance framework. All this would help lift the state’s social and economic status in the long run. The agency in its 20112 credit analysis report on Rivers State, noted that the state currently had a high credit quality, owing to its strong cash holdings, low debt and a healthy operating balance. More importantly, the state’s efforts towards modernising public sector administration, which included information technology upgrade and an improved transparency and accountability in administration is a plus to the administration. Standard and poor’s also noted that Rivers has a strong liquidity base with no substantial debt burden.

HOW HE IS LOVED IN RIVERS STATE

To demonstrate on his acceptance by his people in Rivers State, he is a beneficiary of various traditional titles from most of the kingdoms in Rivers State though he hates to be addressed as a Chief and Patron to various professional groups in the State. His associates and friends in the State hold him in high esteem.

HIS ROYAL MAJESTY, KING ALFRED DIETE-SPIFF the military Governor of the old Rivers State, from 1967 to 1975. He was also a member of the Supreme Military Council (SMC) under General Yakubu Gowon’s administration and currently, the Amayanabo of Toun Brass, Bayelsa State once stated and I quote, “Yes, I am attributed to be the father of the old Rivers State but without sounding immodest let me reiterate that Governor Amaechi can be described as the builder of the modern Rivers State if all the infrastructure he has put in are anything to go by. I am so proud of his feats and if he continues like this, Rivers State will be a proud to all Nigerians”.

To PRINCE TONYE PRINCEWILL the scion of the King of the Kalabari Kingdom and an associate of the Governor but better addressed as the Prince of Niger Delta Politics while reacting to the Vanguard’s award to the Governor stated thus, “A good move. If he had listened to our advice he would have been winning it every year. The award should be seen not as just an achievement but as a signal that he is being watched. Until he hands over power successfully to one accepted by the Rivers State people, he carries a powerful readership under his belt. As a guest writer with my own column in the Vanguard Newspapers, I believe I should know. Amaechi is an asset to Nigeria and the world”.

ENGR. TELE IKURU, FNSE the Deputy Governor of Rivers State in his contribution titled “My Boss is Vanguard Personality of the Year stated and I quote, “God has been gracious to you so much that you have increasingly become an instrument of transformation, an icon of performance, a symbol of excellence in public service, and a refreshingly quintessential model for good governance. This is now public knowledge. The Vanguard Newspapers’ 2012 Personality of the Year Award is a testimonial to this fact”.

RT. HON. OTELEMABA DAN AMACHREE the amiable Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Principal officers, members and entire staff of the Rivers State, see Amaechi as a pace setter. To them the Governor have come a long way and his leadership style is worthy of emulation as his endless strides continue to speak for itself.

MR GEORGE D. N. FEYII the unassuming Secretary to the Rivers State Government in his well-advertised advertorial on the Governor’s feats stated and I quote, “Celebrating your leadership is a celebration of the landmark profile of your giant developmental strides in the new Rivers State. It is unarguably a moment to celebrate a phenomenon of our time; a man of distinction who has given so much to his people in infrastructural development, ethical reorientation and a sense of pride among the comity of states. Your doggedness, focus and track record of achievements are leadership qualities that have set you apart from the crowd”.

To DR DAWARI GEORGE one time Commissioner under the administration of Amaechi before becoming a member of the Federal House of Representatives, “Gov Amaechi has redefined governance. He has been able to reconcile leadership and compassion. A good heart he has. A workaholic, restless and impatient with d status quo, a man who left no one in doubt that he is in charge and able to mobilise all his followers behind a common vision for the future”.

To HON. CHIEF DAKUKU PETERSIDE a formidable force while holding forte as the Commissioner of Works under the administration of Governor Amaechi and currently the Chairman of the Downstream Committee of the Federal House of Representatives in his remarks stated, “It is an honour he truly deserves and rightly earned. Gov Amaechi without doubt has revolutionized the infrastructural landscape of Rivers State. The whole nation has come to acknowledge that he is the new gold standard in good governance. His democratic credentials are exemplary and above all his principled stand on issues stands him out. He taught us to always stand by the truth no matter the inconvenience and that truth will always prevail. We are indeed privileged to have studied at his feet and we are proud of his accomplishments”.

To DR TAMUNOIYORIARI SAMPSON PARKER the Commissioner of Health, “we commend your efforts in repositioning the health sector through the building, equipping, and the staffing of hospitals, model primary health care centres, provision of drugs and other health facilities for the benefit of all residents in the state”.

To BARR ACHI WILLIAMS and other members of the PAN RIVERS LEADERSHIP NETWORK, an organisation set up by some of the best brains in Rivers State whose vision is for a better Rivers State in an advertorial signed by over 100 of its leaders stated thus – “Your Excellency, leadership is about influencing the thinking, behaviour and development of others. To us all, you are our leader as you have positively influenced our behaviour and thinking and we are delighted that your leadership qualities and contributions to nation building are being recognised nationally. To us, you are not just the Man of the Year; you are the Man of this Generation”.

Given an insight into what prompted Amaechi into politics, HON. (CHF.) IKE CHINWO, KSC, FNIM one time member of the Federal House of Representatives and presently the National President of the UNIPORT Alumnus Associate, “Many may not know but let it be said loud and clear that what actually propelled Rotimi into politics was his worry about the high level of poverty and lack of development in the land and the quest to ameliorate the situation among our people, the state, nation and humanity at large. From the projects and programmes he has initiated since he was elected as Governor and the passion with which he is vigorously pursuing them one can see the justification. So, I am not surprised about his achievements. I am convinced he will attract more laurels by his works”.

AMAECHI AS A NATIONAL FIGURE

Apart from been a onetime Chairman of the Forum of Nigerian Speakers from 1999 to 2011 and currently the Chairman of the Forum of Nigerian Governors’ Forum, he was the recipient of an honorary Doctorate Degree from various Universities in Nigeria including the Usmanu Danfodiyo University of Sokoto. He is a holder of the Commander of the Order of Niger, CON and Man of the Year recipient of Sun, Leadership, Compass and recently Vanguard Newspaper. The following comments by some outstanding Nigerians attest to the above.

Under an advertorial by 32 members of the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly of Nigeria signed by Deputy Senate President, Sen. Ike Ekweremadu, “Today as always, we rejoice with you, our worthy friend, a democrat, a patriotic Nigerian and an epitome of good governance as you add another feather to your cap as Vanguard Man of the year 2012” and that signed by over 200 members of the Federal House of Representatives indicates the wide acceptance of Amaechi as the “Standard Torch Bearer” of a better Nigeria.

President Jonathan Goodluck had during a working visit to Rivers State to commission Owerri Road a Federal Government Road constructed by the Rivers State Government to ease the suffering of commuters at N45B, lay the foundation of the Adokie Amiesiemaka Stadium that has hosted a lot of International meets and the foundation of the Rivers State Monorail Initiative that is intended to revolutionize transportation in Rivers State and a challenge to other States of the federation, the commissioning of the Trans Amadi based Gas Turbine eulogized the Governor of Rivers State over his vision in the choice of projects that impacted positively on the people. President Jonathan hinted that the several road networks embarked upon by the Rivers State Government and the Monorail transport system planned by the government has significantly shown that the state is moving ahead, “beside the road network, I want to commend Governor Amaechi on the three major projects, the quality of Primary and Secondary Schools that we saw, as well as the Power Project that would aid Small Business Enterprises”.

To Prof. Tam David-West, “If you compare the administration of Odili and that of Amaechi, you will agree with me that the present administration under Amaechi has done in two years far more than what Odili did in eight years”.

To Governor Shekarau of Kano State who was in the State to witness some of the great feats of Amaechi remarked, “I feel highly fulfilled by coming here today to hear and see the dividends of democracy, as I urge Governor Amaechi to build more of such schools which he described as vehicle for change. But for time, I would have borrowed a leaf from Amaechi by replicating the quality of schools I have seen here in his state”.

INTERNATIONAL STATURE OF GOV AMAECHI

To demonstrate the international posture of Rivers State and how the Governor has taken Rivers State to the outside world; he was one of three high profile speakers at this year’s Commonwealth Observance day held at the Westminister Abbey in London. Governor Amaechi was invited to speak at this year’s Observance because of what was described as his “incredible achievements at the national level, personal commitment to policies that encourage enterprise and create opportunity and not least his personal engagement”.

Attesting to the international figure of this great gift to Nigeria by God, the former President of the Republic of Zambia, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda during his visit to the State described the leadership of the Governor of Rivers State as a focused one. Dr. Kaunda noted that with the focused leadership of Governor Amaechi, Rivers State would continue to be of service to humanity for many years to come.

Following up, the Deputy Speaker of Ugandan Parliament and Chairperson of CWP Hon Rebecca Kadaga, lauded the developmental efforts and policies of Governor Amaechi especially those geared towards improving the lot of children and women, saying that the issues already canvassed confirm that what the CWP was set to achieve are already in place in Rivers State.

In appreciation to the great feats of Amaechi’s administration, the former Israeli Prime Minister, Ehud Olmert stated recently that, “The impression that I always get when I come to Africa is that these countries have enormous potential and your country and your State (Rivers) have enormous potential and I think that you happen to have at this time in history also, a dynamic, energetic and capable leadership that can make the dreams of building up the State into a reality of life for the 5.1 million residents in Rivers State that want their lives to be of much higher and greater quality.” Mr, Ehud enthused.

In extolling this great revolutionist, the United States Consul General in Lagos, Mr. Jeffrey Hawkins while exchanging ideas with some Journalists stated, “I must commend Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State for embarking on numerous people-oriented projects and showing enthusiasm on Niger delta issues. “We are very appreciative of all that Amaechi has done. we are quite clear that addressing the issues of the Niger Delta, the challenges require focusing on things like education development, agriculture, health, all sorts of issues, and the governor was kind enough to show us, on the ground, some of the projects the government of Rivers State is working on, so we are very deeply appreciative of his support”.

RIVERS STATE AND INTERNATIONAL MEETS

The results of the peaceful state of Rivers State under the watch of Gov Amaechi has resulted not only the attraction of foreign investments but today Port Harcourt is now the haven of both International and National championships. Apart from hosting one of the best organised National Sports Festival ever in Nigeria, the just concluded School Sports and the Police Games by March 2013. Port Harcourt apart from Abuja and probably Lagos is the only State to have hosted US-Nigeria biennial National Conference, Pan African Parliamentary; Garden City Literary Festival, hosted CARNRIV involving several foreign countries to showcase the rich culture, potentials and beauty of her people, the 2nd Dr Claude Ake Memorial Lecture, Rivers State Investment Forum and Governor’s Interactive Session with Rivers State Youths.

Apart from the above other major events hosted by Rivers State include the ION Film Festival where the world best Film Producers were feted with the hospitality of Rivers State, Miss ECOWAS Pageant, Garden City Literary Festival, Guild of Editors, Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP), a trade delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on an enlighten mission for private companies within the South-South zone on how to access business opportunities available within the ECOWAS sub region among many other major events hosted by the Rivers State Government. The State is the UNESCO’s World Book Capital 2014. What a feat and what an accomplishment.

HONOURS AND JUSTIFICATION OF MANDATE

Gov. Amaechi got the Sun Newspaper Man of the Year Award in 2007 and the Compass Newspaper Award for Security in 2008. The Governor of the year 2009 Award was presented to Governor Amaechi at the ‘Leadership Award for Excellence – 2009’ chaired by former Head of State of Nigeria, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd) in Abuja.

He was also conferred with the prestigious “SERA’s” award for his contributions towards the social development of Rivers State, in line with the objectives of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG), especially in the areas of Health and Education.

SOLUTION TO THE POOR LEADERSHIP CHALLENGE OF NIGERIA

Barr Olkayo Ajulo in his article titled “Leadership Crisis and the future of the Nigerian Youths” he listed the woes that have befallen our nation. According to this erudite writer, “To state it more clearly, everything that is synonymous with underdevelopment is synonymous with Nigeria. Our hospitals have become mortuaries due to lack of equipment, drugs and personnel; our universities lack the adequate facilities for adequate manpower training and development and the graduates of these universities are now regarded as half-baked; our transport system have gone moribund – our roads are riddled with potholes and our airspace is unsafe to fly with incessant crashes; there is high rate of unemployment; insecurity of lives and properties has become the norm; there is no power to drive our industries making investment difficult and occasioning industries to close shop. These and many others may have propelled the description of Nigeria as a failed state”. What may have caused all these woes, Barr Ajulo came up with an answer, “On the whole, we have produced leaders that have failed the nation in its cry for development, leaders who in recent times have been described as accidental public servants being unprepared for leadership. The failure of the leadership at all levels of government to coordinate, direct and harness the human and material resources of the country accounts for the Nigeria’s underdevelopment today. But must we as a nation continue like this?” Can we continue in this current state of mismanagement and plundering of our natural resources? We obviously cannot forge ahead like this”.

Yes, we cannot continue like this as the former Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd) has an answer to that malaise of poor leadership in Nigeria. According to him, the winner of the Vanguard Personality of the Year Award 2012, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, the governor of Rivers State and the runner-up, Group Managing Director (GMD), Access Bank, Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede, are two gentlemen that represent the normative order of a new generation leadership orientation that is anchored on love for country, service delivery and patriotism. “In fact, given their humanity, there is nothing extra-ordinary about their creation but there is something, extra-ordinary about their leadership emanations. For example, Governor Amaechi is not just a governor in whom I am well pleased, but one that has been able to make a bold impression about promise and performance, in a Nigerian political space that is grappling with challenges of development and good governance. Amaechi has been involved in scholarship programmes for Rivers State students some of whom Amaechi also sent to schools up North for foundational studies in the spirit of national integration.

“His conviction that the federating units in the country should be allowed to enjoy some level of independence and exploit their comparative advantages often gets him into trouble, understandably so. With leaders who are brutally frank about issues and the politics of transition, leaders who are driven by their conviction like Amaechi and Aig-Imoukhuede, Nigeria still has tremendous hope. We must make the votes count in order to produce leaders such as Governor Amaechi. I do not envy him. With leaders who are brutally frank about issues and the politics of transition, leaders who are driven by their convictions like Amaechi and Aig-Imoukhuede, Nigeria still has tremendous hope”. With all the above submissions, I agree vehemently with General Babangida in his wise counsel to Nigerians on Amaechi

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, let me assume that most of the travails of Gov Amaechi are political because of his beliefs and political calculations come 2015 but if I may ask, what is wrong seeing the credentials and feats of this visionary leader from offering himself to higher responsibility in the leadership of this country? This brings in Prof Tam David-West once again. According to him, Amaechi’s “orchestrated travails though unfortunate is “Nigerian paradox “where excellence is relegated and mediocrity is elevated”. If I may ask, must we continue to promote mediocrity in our leadership sphere and allow our nation to continue to bleed? The choice is ours!

• Eze Chukwuemeka Eze Writes From Port Harcourt

As the rift between two major Nigerian Football Clubs, Warri Wolves of Delta state and Rangers International of Enugu state soars, the Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Warri Wolves FC, Mr Alex Amudo has been suspended with immediate effect for anti-club activities.

Blank NEWS Online learnt that Amudo has allegedly been conceding to non-agreeable terms in the ongoing discussion with Board members of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and executive of the warring football clubs at Abuja, leading to his recent clarification of certain grey issues about the purported agreement between Warri Wolves FC and Rangers International FC over ownership and financial settlement on Sunday Mba and Chigozie Agbim.

Sources revealed that the authorities and owners of Warri Wolves FC had frowned at Mr Alex Amudo’s representations at the Abuja parley, alleging that he was a potential “Rebel” to club’s position on the ensuing matter as well as having contrary view to that of Delta State Sports Commission who are the  custodian of the Club.

Meanwhile, Mr Kenneth Nwomucha has been appointed to act as Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Warri Wolves FC.

According to a letter signed by the Club Secretary, Mr Lawrence Omowho which also addressed to the Nigeria Football Association (NFF), Mr Alex Amudo was allegedly suspended as disciplinary measure for act of insubordination to constituted authority.

The suspension letter, made available to Blank NEWS Online, also nullified whatever discussion Mr Alex Amudo had in Abuja, claiming that all his assertions at the series of meetings were not binding on the Club.

Mr Amudo has been directed to handover all Club property in his possession to the Club Secretary with immediate effect.

The suspension letter reads:
“You are hereby suspended from the Management Board of Warri Wolves as the Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for act of indiscipline and insubordination to constituted authority, having contrary view to that of the Delta State Sports Commission who are the custodian of the Club.
“Whatever discussion you had in Abuja and your purported signatory to documents is not binding on Warri Wolves.
“You are to handover all the Club properties to the Club Secretary.”

DELTA State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has said Industrial Courts would be established in Asaba and Warri.

The Governor dropped the hint on Tuesday, April 16, 2013, when the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice Ibrahim Auta paid him a courtesy call at Government House annex, Warri.

According to him, approval has been given for the courts to be established and they would be located in Asaba, the state capital and Warri, the economic melting pot of the state.

“I appeal to you to thank your colleague in Industrial Court who has approved the establishment of a court in Asaba and another one in Warri,” the Governor told the visiting Chief Judge.

He also thanked the Chief Judge for approving the establishment of a Federal High Court in Warri, assuring that the Judiciary will always get assistance from the state government to ensure quick dispensation of justice.

Dr Uduaghan observed that the peculiar nature of Delta State has made it that such facilities and institutions were duplicated observing that Government House annex had to be built in Warri at the heat of the crisis that rocked the Niger Delta region due to the fact that officials of government relocated to Warri from Asaba to enable them tackle security challenges then.

While emphasizing that Asaba remained the state capital where the Government House is located he observed that the Government House annex has also served a lot of purposes in the state.

Earlier, Justice Auta who was accompanied by a retinue of Justices of Federal High Courts informed Governor Uduaghan and members of the state executive council that they were in the state for the inaugural sitting and opening ceremony of Warri Judicial Division of Federal High Court.

While thanking Governor Uduaghan for his assistance to the Judiciary, Justice Auta said: “the Governor, the Government and people of Delta State will not regret the establishment of Federal High Courts in Asaba and Warri.”

“We are aware of the hazards involved in going to Federal High Court, Benin from Warri but it is more difficult to get to Asaba from Warri,” he said, adding that the courts will make it easier for the judicial officers as well as bring justice closer to the people.

DELTA State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has said that apart from social benefits, economic variables were highly considered before roads are awarded for construction.

Fielding questions from journalist shortly after a recent inspection of the progress of work done on a 7.6 kilometer Umeh Road in Isoko South, local government area of the state, Governor Uduaghan disclosed that in line with his commitment towards Delta Beyond Oil economic variables were paramount for executing projects in the state.

“This is an economic viable road in line with our aspirations towards achieving the policy thrust of Delta Beyond Oil and this road will open up the rural communities for them to take their agricultural produce to the cities,” the Governor said.

He observed that when completed, a lot of communities would benefit from the road, adding that it was estimated to be completed within 18 months but the flood which ravaged coastal communities especially, communities in Delta State affected the project.

According to the Governor, while the flood washed away the sand, it also threw up the challenge of constructing a bridge where box culvert was designed to be constructed.

He assured the people of Umeh and those who will make use of the road that efforts are on to complete the stone base work of the road and possibly, tar the road before the rains becomes much

Dr Uduaghan commended the people of Umeh for ensuring that the construction company’s operations were not hampered reiterating his commitment towards serving the people of the state selflessly.

Also, the Governor yesterday inspected ongoing projects in Ughelli, Ekpan and Warri.

The Governor who was accompanied by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Dr Festus Okubor and civil commissioners while at Ughelli, inspected the schools being constructed and the level of work done at the dual carriage way.

He expressed satisfaction at the level of work done at the culvert being done on Housing Complex road, Ekpan and also, expressed satisfaction that the contractor handling the refinery road project, Mr Jihad Aoun has assured that asphalting of the road would be completed before May 29, 2013.

Dr Uduaghan engaged in carrying out sanitation exercise on the road, confiscation materials and wares used to obstruct the walkways saying it was sad that people were not appreciating the need not to create obstruction on the walkways.

Materials which were confiscated including a Kia Picanto with registration number, Lagos, DR 18 GGE and a Honda Accord saloon car, including vulcanizing machine, vendors stand, materials for recharge card retailers, among others were taken to the Ekpan Police Station.

At the Enerhen Junction where heavy duty equipment was seen working, Governor Uduaghan disclosed that his administration was engaged in what he called, “junction improvement project.”

He stated that the project would be executed in Warri and Asaba, assuring that when completed, there will be free flow of traffic at busy junctions.

Addressing residents and traders at Enerhen junction during the inspection, Governor Uduaghan appealed to parents to ensure that their children are immunized against polio.

“Take your children to hospitals and immunize them against polio, it is free and administered through the mouth,” he said, adding, “the campaign against polio is not about us, it is about our children”.

In another development, Governor Uduaghan, on Tuesday, April 16′ 2013 explained that the ban on commercial motorcycle popularly called okada was in the interest of the generality of the people.

Uduaghan who stated this in Warri while presenting two 50-seater buses, two 18-seater buses and 50 tricycles for use in Ethiope East local government area of Delta State, noted that it was not intended to make people suffer.

According to him, it has become necessary as investigations revealed that Okada was being used to perpetuate crime in the areas.

He reiterated that the decision to ban Okada was taken at the State Security Council meeting and not a personal decision, adding that crimes have greatly reduced in Asaba, Warri and other towns were Okada has been banned in the state.

Dr Uduaghan said 20 tricycles and the two seater18-seater buses would be used and managed by the Delta State University, Abraka (DELSU) noting that the tricycles were given to the University free, while 30 tricycles and the two 50-seater buses would be used within Ethiope East local government area.

He noted that the tricycles and vehicles had to be presented to cushion the effects of the ban on Okada operations on the people.

Responding on behalf of beneficiaries of the government gesture, the Vice Chancellor of DELSU, Prof. Eric Arubayi thanked Governor Uduaghan for being a listening Governor stating that the vehicles would be very useful as “90 per cent of our students live off campus”.

A High Court sitting in Ogwashi-Uku, Delta state has adjourned hearing in a suit between the State versus one Michael Albert, following complicity surrounding the murder of Mr. Felix Onyeka Nduka, an undergraduate of Delta state Polytechnic, Ogwasi-Uku.

Recall that late Felix Onyeka Nduka on 29 May 2012 shot dead at Aboh-Ogwashi by unknown assailants which led to the arrest and arraignment of the suspect (Michael Albert), alleged to have claimed ownership of the motorcycle belonging to the deceased shortly after his gruesome murder.

After the Prosecuting Counsel, Barr. H. O. Ghoghome examined one of the witnesses, Chidiebere Nwaite in the murder case with Suit No: O/4C/13, on Wednesday, April 10, 2013,  the Presiding Judge, Justice T. O. Diai approve an application to adjourn hearing on the matter to May 08, 2013.

Justice T. O. Diai however called on counsels to make more witnesses available at the next Court sitting for speedy hearing in the matter, following complaints made by the Defense Counsel, Barr. O. W. Chibuogwu.

The witness, Chidiebere Nwaite, during examination by the Prosecuting Counsel told the court that at about 10:30 pm on the fateful day of the murder of late Felix Onyeka Nduka, he discovered a QLINK Motorcycle with Registration No: UT 215 NSK (Exhibit A) along a farm road at Aboh-Ogwashi and immediately alerted the Vigilante Chairman.

He added that the Vigilante Chairman ordered that the said motorcycle be moved away from the spot it was parked to his premises, pending the discovery of the real owner and later reported their findings to the Police on two different occasion.

Luck however ran out of the accused, Michael Albert when he appeared in the premises of the Vigilante Chairman the next day at about 07:00am, saying that the QLINK Motorcycle with Registration No: UT 215 NSK belong to him and be released to him.

But it was later discovered that the real owner of the same QLINK Motorcycle with Registration No: UT 215 NSK (Exhibit A) was the deceased, late Felix Onyeka Nduka.

Justice T. O. Diai adjourned hearing on the matter to May 08, 2013.

DELTA State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has called for synergy between states and security agencies in tackling security challenges in the country.

Governor Uduaghan who made the call today when participants of the Executive Intelligence Management Course 6 of the Institute For Security Studies, Abuja on a study tour of the state paid him a courtesy visit in Asaba, said the involvement of the states in tackling the security challenges of the country would make the nation safer and more secured.

He said: “the states are in a better position to understand the security challenges in their areas and the inner workings of security at the states and national levels,” adding “when the states are deeply involved in whatever security programmes being carried out, the nation and the states will be properly secured and safe”

Dr Uduaghan urged the Institute to develop programmes for states’ officials handling security issues and challenges at the state level as this would enable them compare notes on the methods of tackling such challenges and get more insights into the handling of security issues.

“I appeal to the Institute to draw up a programme for state officials especially the Secretary to States Government to look into the security challenges and issues at the state level. This programme will enable them synergise on various security issues affecting the states, methods of tackling them and serves as an avenues for these officials to rub minds on how to make the states and the nation safer and more secured”

He lauded the theme of the programme; “Nigeria in the year 2020 and beyond: The challenges of security sector, synergy in the democratic culture,” and observed that it was important for synergy between security agencies to ensure proper and effective of security for the country.

The Governor also disclosed that his administration has always ensured that there is synergy between the various security agencies in the state through regular expanded Security Council Meetings with most of the security agencies in the state in attendance.

While commending the management of Institute for Security Studies, Abuja for choosing Delta State for the study, he assured the Course participants of the cooperation of the state government to enable them carry out their studies effectively.

In a brief address, the leader of the team and Deputy Director of Studies of the Institute, Mr. Adebayo Babalola, stated that participants of the course were made up of representatives of various security agencies in the country and they were brought together to promote understanding and act as change agents to move the nation’s security forward.

“The composition is deliberate to bring in synergy among security agencies,” Mr. Babalola said, adding: “they are intelligently robust to partake in this course. They will act as change agents in their various outfits to meet security challenges in the country.”

He explained that “Delta State was chosen for the study because of the synergy between the various security outfits in the state, adding that “we are here to study and interact with these agencies and their officials to see the workings of the organisations”.

The deputy Governor of Ekiti state, Mrs Olufunmilayo Adunni Olayinka is dead after a prolonged battle with cancer.

Family sources confirmed that she died of cancer in Lagos.

She became deputy governor since 16th October 2010 and notable for championing women’s rights.

She was aged 52 and is survived by her husband and three children.

A statement made available to Blank NEWS Online and signed by Reuben Abati, spokesman to President Goodluck Jonathan reads: “President Jonathan describes the late Deputy Governor as a dedicated, public spirited technocrat who used her talent to make the difference.”

The president prayed that Almighty God grants her husband, family and the state the fortitude to bear the loss.

Ahead of the 2015 general elections and current clamour by Delta North Senatorial District as most suitable to produce the next governor as well as the ensuing outwitting and mudslinging by various contenders and pretenders jostling to occupy the exalted seat, incumbent Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan has said that only God could decide who becomes governor in 2015.

“He who becomes Governor in 2015 will be decided by God,” the Governor said, stating that neither he nor President Goodluck Jonathan has the power to do such.

Speaking on Sunday at a thanksgiving service at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, Ubiaja, Edo stateGovernor Uduaghan stated that power comes from God. According to him, “those who wants to step into one shoe or the other should please seek the face of God.”

While reiterating that only God can give power, the Governor disclosed that his emergence as Governor in 2007 was divine, emphasizing that he cannot stop giving thanks to God for His goodness.

He added that the choice of Professor Amos Utuama as his Deputy was also by divine intervention stating that after emerging as the governorship candidate, his greatest challenge was who was going to be his Deputy considering the political nature of Delta State.

“What is the political implication of having someone from Delta Central or North?”, he stated observing that within the last two years, three Deputy Governors have been removed from office.

While noting that there has been no regret since he has been working with Prof. Utuama, he called for more prayer to enable his administration finish strong in 2015.

He emphasized, “we are working harder to finish strong,” assuring that Delta State will witness more developmental projects before the end of his administration.

Also speaking, his Deputy, Prof. Utuama said, “we want to acknowledge before everyone that power comes from God,” stating that it has been “an exciting opportunity working with Governor Uduaghan, “he is a very intelligent person.”

Earlier in a sermon, Revd Fr. Francis Omolume said, “what the Governor, his Deputy and their families are doing is in line with the word of God; showing gratitude to God.”

He urged political office holders to use their positions to serve humanity and charged Governor Uduaghan to continue to execute people-oriented programs.