Pakistan is quaking as both the ruling and opposition parties are at Daggers Drawn over what the relationship with terrorism group and treatment of terrorists should be.
The opposition in the Pakistani Senate has already slammed the government for being soft on terrorism and terrorists.
The opposition at a seating during the week alleged the ruling government of what it called “a policy of appeasement” towards terrorist outfits, noting that talks with those who challenged writ of the state had emboldened and encouraged such actors.
Speaking on an adjournment motion on the rising tide of terrorism, opposition senators also voiced concern over talks with the outlawed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which were being held through a government that was not recognised by any country of the world.
They said that the recently unveiled National Security Policy be discussed in parliament and that an internal security policy, as well as the Afghan strategy, should be framed in light of that discussion.
Senators claimed the government was devoting all its energies to stifling dissent and cornering its political opponents, while ignoring its responsibility to protect the lives of the people.
However, the interior minister claimed that negotiations with the banned group had stalled because their demands were unreasonable, warning the opposition of a potential terror threat if it went ahead with its proposed long march and asked them to consider rescheduling it.
Opening debate on the topic, Pakistan Peoples Party leader Sherry Rehman sought an explanation on how a sitting prime minister can decide who is the leader of the opposition or who is not — a reference to PM Khan’s recent statement where he said that he had no respect for Shehbaz Sharif and didn’t consider him an opposition leader.
“This is not his decision, nor is it his prerogative. It is the sovereign right of the people to elect their representatives, not his own prerogative as a manifestation of his own hubris and bizarre conceptualisation of the political and constitutional reality of the country,” she remarked.
She also criticised the prime minister for constantly blaming either previous governments, external factors, or anyone but his own government for all the ills that plagued the country. She said the people of Pakistan no longer knew where to turn in their hour of unprecedented misery as crisis after crisis was unleashed on citizens.
“He is making a laughing stock of Pakistan by threatening his own country, but also sending a message to his selectors, who are now clearly fed up with this amateurish show. Too much is at stake, given Pakistan’s national security challenges and economic distress. You can’t have rule by tantrum. Pakistan will not be sacrificed to anyone’s ego,” she said.
But defending his party chief, Leader of the House in the Senate Dr Shahzad Wasim said that the prime minister was merely holding up a mirror to the opposition.
Asking sarcastically who could possibly threaten “such an incompetent opposition”, he said after disqualification by the courts, they first distributed sweets and then started asking ‘mujhe kyon nikala’ (why was I removed). This prompted a token walkout by the opposition.
Former Senate chairman Raza Rabbani said the state had been patronising extremist right wing forces and religious groups, adding that TTP was said to be reorganising in Afghanistan.
He said that the TTP kept on violating a ceasefire agreement, but the government still says its doors are open for talks. Senator Tahir Bizenjo of the National Party said that over the last 10 days, eight terrorist attacks had taken place across the country, while Nawabzada Umar Farooq Kasi said that negotiating with terrorists only encouraged them. Jamaat-i-Islami Senator Mushtaq Ahmad regretted that terrorists and target killers ruled the roost and demanded that former military ruler Pervez Musharraf be brought to Pakistan and tried for his surrender before the US and the murder of Nawab Akbar Bugti.
He asked who was it that actually negotiated with the TTP, and what were the terms of these talks. He also sought an explanation from the interior minister over his statement about presence of terrorists’ sleeper cells in Islamabad. Responding to the opposition, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed said no talks were currently being held with the TTP since their demands were considered to be against the country’s security interests.
He claimed India does not want good relations between the Afghan Taliban and Pakistan, adding that evidence suggested RAW was behind many terror attacks in the country, which were carried out by local criminals hired by the Indian agency. He also disclosed that the opposition’s protest march on the capital, scheduled for March this year, was also under threat of terrorist attack and called on its leadership to reconsider its decision.
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Chinese President Xi Jinping, has reiterated his commitment to working with African leaders towards the development of Africa.
Jinping, who sent on Saturday a warm congratulatory message to African countries and people on the opening of the 35th African Union (AU) Summit, said under new circumstances, China stands ready to work with the African side to actively implement the outcomes of the FOCAC conference, further synergize the Belt and Road cooperation and the Global Development Initiative with the AU’s Agenda 2063 and the construction of the African Continental Free Trade Area, in a bid to steer China-Africa cooperation toward higher-quality and wider-ranging development, and to write a new chapter in China-Africa friendship.
In his congratulatory message to the AU Summit, Xi pointed out that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the AU’s founding, and that over the past 20 years, the AU has stayed committed to seeking strength through unity, actively explored a development path suited to Africa, facilitated important progress in regional integration and coordinated a concerted response from African countries to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Such efforts have proven effective in maintaining peace, stability and development in Africa, and have won Africa growing influence and stature in the world, Xi said.
The year of 2021 witnessed robust growth in China-Africa relations, Xi stressed.
He however noted that the Eighth Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) was successfully held in November last year,stressing that he announced during the conference nine programs for cooperation with Africa in the next three years, and that he, together with African leaders, expressed their unanimous support for building a China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era.
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The DC-23 Screening Committee on Sunday evening, February 6, submitted its list of three aspirants from Delta Central Senatorial District for Governorship of Delta State, with Olorogun David Edevbie emerging the most preferred according to inside sources.
Others who made the list, though markedly distant on points from Edevbie, include Chief Kenneth Gbagi and Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.
Following advice from several stakeholders, including His Excellency, Senator (Dr) Okowa, the leadership of the Delta Central lobby group had for the past few months been engaged in screening the aspirants to prune down the number and present the most qualified. All participants had earlier pledged to abide by the decision of the committee.
The screening committee, composed of highly reputed Delta Central political leaders with Prof Nyerhvowo as Chairman and Prof Sunny Awhefeada as Secretary, had earlier in December 2022 selected five aspirants, including Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, Chief James Augoye, Olorogun David Edevbie, Chief Kenneth Gbagi and Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
According to the committee, the selection criteria adopted and made known to the aspirants were acceptability across the state, accessibility, integrity/credibility, capability, development strategy and Pan-Delta disposition.
While presenting the report, Secretary of the committee, Prof Sunny Awhefeada, said the three names had been presented alphabetically.
However, sources at the committee revealed that Edevbie was shoulders high above other aspirants on all scores, proving to be the most experienced and prepared to consolidate on the achievements of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa towards advancing the development and growth of Delta State.
David Edevbie’s emergence as top on the list comes as no surprise as he was the consensus choice of Urhobo Progressive Union in 2014, still in recognition of his high education, experience and expertise.
Members of the committee include Chief Arthur Akpowowo, Chief Dr. (Mrs.) Augustina Erah, Hon. Felix Anirah, Mr Tony Omonemu, Revd. Fr. Christopher Ekabor, Chief Anthony Akpomiemie, Chief Andy Osawota, Deacon Raymond Edijala, Dr Godfrey Enita, Deaconess Florence Jakpovi and Mrs Rarute Mgbeke.
While receiving the report, the National Chairman of DC-23, Senator Ighoyota Amori, thanked the committee members for their commitment and job well done and urged those who did not make the list to take the outcome in good faith as only one person will eventually emerge the Governor. He said those not selected are still highly recognised and respected personalities in their own rights.
Assuring that the DC-23 will continue to discharge its leadership with fairness, transparency and without fear or favour, he urged political leaders and stakeholders to queue behind any of the three aspirants towards the final choice by Deltans.
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The Delta State Chief Job and Wealth Creation Officer, Prof. Eric Eboh, has said that array of role-model STEP and YAGEP alumni who attended the graduation ceremony has inspired fresh graduands to business successes.
Prof. Eboh, disclosed this at the graduation ceremony for 1000 STEP and YAGEP beneficiaires of the 2020/2021 programme cycle on Thursday 3rd FEBRUARY 2022, at the event center in Asaba.
He said the cycle covered 1,000 beneficiaries comprising 654 STEPreneurs and 346 YAGEPreneurs, including 25 Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), one in each of the 25 Local Government Areas is the 6th in the job creation programme series since 2015.
“All 1,000 beneficiaries here today have been duly trained in occupational, entrepreneurial and business skills. Also, they have been given starter packs and shop rent support (in the case of STEPreneurs) or support packages and cash support for critical farm operations (in the case of YAGEPreneurs). Beneficiaries were given starter packs and support packages in batches upon successful completion of all the phases of training and fulfilling the eligibility requirements.
“Altogether, the job creation programmes – STEP and YAGEP – have covered 6,074 beneficiaries from 2015 to date. This number is part of the expanding portfolio of the state government’s job creation and youth empowerment programmes including RYSA, GEST, WESAP and ICT-YEP.
“In addition to the 1,000 graduands gathered, we have assembled a small sample of outstanding previous STEPreneurs and YAGEPreneurs already profiled in the STEP & YAGEP Hall of Fame”, adding that the STEP and YAGEP Hall of Fame’ is an informative reference and promotional tool designed to recognize and promote outstanding beneficiaries in an ongoing series.”
“The sample of outstanding beneficiaries include three categories. Outstanding STEPreneurs who have recorded remarkable growth, diversification and innovation of their enterprises, and some of them have become trainers under STEP, RYSA and GEST. Outstanding YAGEPreneurs who have shown distinctive progress of their farm enterprises in terms of production size, market space and product innovation. Persons with Disabilities [PwDs] STEPreneurs & YAGEPreneurs who have displayed remarkable determination and abilities in growing their enterprises and employing other persons.”
He said the Bureau has created some institutional development tools developed and already being applied by Delta Job and Wealth Creation Bureau to ensure organizational and programme sustainability into the future.
“The sustainability tools include our online programme management information system (MIS); the Job Creation Magazine series published since 2015; the satellite-based digital survey map of all verified YAGEP farm enterprises throughout the state and the 5-Yr Masterplan of Delta State Job and Wealth Creation Bureau.
“All 1,000 beneficiaries here today are particularly happy and excited about this unique opportunity to say thank you and to receive your fatherly blessings for their enterprise endeavours,” Prof. Eboh stated.
In his address, Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, called on Deltans to be wary of deliberate mischief against the state government, saying that citizens knew that no volume of devious criticism could taint the developmental efforts of his administration.
“Recently I hear some people criticise what we are doing for the youths of our state, they speak in manners that are becoming nauseating.
“When we recognised that we are doing a lot in infrastructure in such a manner that has earned us recognition but I know that our greatest strong point is in ensuring that we give our youths the necessary skills to keep them strong and keep hope alive.
“Our youth training programmes both the STEPreneurship, YAGEPreneurship and other programmes is our strongest point and we have no apologies about it.
“We know that today Delta is one of the most peaceful states and it is because the youths are working in collaboration with the government.
“This is so because our youths are responsible they are passionate about their future and about this state, and the youths of Delta wants us to have a great state.
“We will ignore what they say but its important for us as youths that as we go into the future to realise that in order to keep the future of the current youths and those who are growing up, we must learn to exercise our political rights in such a manner that we do not waste our votes for those who do not mean well.
“I say so because anybody criticizing what we are doing in collaboration with our youths does not obviously mean well for the state and such a person is an enemy to the youths.
“I want to urge you to stay strong, focused and we believe that together we can ensure the continuity and the growth of our various youth entrepreneurship programmes if you partner with us as we go into the new dispensation that is coming.
“It is well with our state and I use this opportunity to thank our traditional rulers for their support and prayers for the success of this administration.
“It is my belief that as they continue to pray for us our youths will continue to grow from strength to strength and we look forward to a Delta State that is not only stronger but a Delta State that will make a major difference in the comity of states in Nigeria.
“Am confident that you will make us proud going into the future and we will proud that we laid the foundation and that was built upon,” he stated.
The Governor lauded the Job and Wealth Creation Bureau for its diligent and professional handling of the programmes to become a major success story of his administration.
He assured that with the enabling law establishing the Delta State Job and Wealth Creation Bureau, the state’s job creation programmes would be sustained beyond his administration.
He commended the youths of the state for their dexterity and focus, assuring that in years to come the benefits of the programme would be manifest nationwide.
“You have made me proud as a governor and I must return my thanks to all the youths who have gone through this programme because if you had failed it would have discouraged us from continuing with it.
“I thank the Delta State House of Assembly because the Delta State Job and Wealth Creation Bureau has been legislated on and signed into law.”
The Governor who was flanked by his Deputy, Mr Kingsley Otuaro paid glowing tribute to the people who gave life to the program including Dr Kingsley Emu, Professor Eric Eboh, Dr Kingsley Obiora Deputy Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria and Hon. Festus Agas among others.
He announced a cash reward of N500,000 each for 75 outstanding STEPreneurs and YAGEPreneurs adopted into the Job Creation Hall of Fame.
In their valedictory speech, Gure Oghenetejiri, a STEPreneur in POP, Screeding and Painting from Ughelli North and Onakpoya Evuarhere, a Poultry YAGEPreneur from Ethiope East commended Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and the state government for the life opportunity given to them to acquire skills and become business owners.
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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Michael J. EKOKORUWE:
Ederie community in Isoko South local government area of Delta State was agog at the weekend as the Governor of Delta state, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the Majority Leader Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Ferguson Onwo, DESOPADEC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Bashorun Askia Ogieh and others attended the marriage ceremony of High Chief Eta Enahoro’s son and wished the couple a blissful marriage.
Governor Okowa represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Patrick Ukah, Delta State House of Assembly members from Isoko South and North constituencies, Hon. Evivie Ovuakpoye, Hon. Jude Ogbimi and Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay, Director General Warri/Uvwie Development Agency, congratulated the couple Ewoma and Evezi, just as they wished them a successful marriage.
Speaking to Journalists, the Chairman of Isoko South and North, Hon. Asasa Victor and Hon. Dcn. Iteire Christian, described Eta Enahoro as a “man of the people, industralist and a philantropist” and prayed God to bless the couple, just as they urged them to show commitment and faithfulness as they become one.
Also speaking, Sir Ayodele Othihiwa, urged the couple to love themselves as marriage is a school and lifetime institution and prayed God to bless and give them all they desire in life.
While describing Eta Enahoro as an industralist that has provided employment for Isoko sons and daughters, High Chief Iduh Amadhe, Patron Isoko Development Union, called on other Isoko sons to emulate him towards the development of Isoko land. He wished the couple a happy and fruitful marriage.
Other groups that congratulated Eta Enahoro were the Isoko Positive Agenda (I.P.A) and Emore Grammer School Old Boys Association (EMOGRAM). They commended the parents of the bride and groom just as they prayed God to bless the couple with prosperity and longevity and enjoined the couple to be tolerant and put God first.
Traditional rulers from Isoko South and North at the ceremony also prayed for the couple and described Enahoro as a humble man even as they urged the couple to be humble in order to live a successful life.
For his part, Chief John Oraka, Chairman Editorial Board of the Trumpet National Newspaper, commended High Chief Eta Enahoro for an unimaginable crowd that attended the marriage from all over Nigeria and said, “it is good to be good”. He noted that Eta has touched many lives in Nigeria which according to him was the reason for the celebration and prayed God to bless the couple with good health and other best things in life.
The event was attended by the Chairman, De Wayles Group of Companies, High Chief Emonena Victor Wayles Egukawhore (JP), Engr. Daniel Omoyibo, M. D and C.E.O Dantinajo Gold Resort, Oleh Isoko South local government area of Delta State and Chief Greg Edor, M.D and C.E.O Quest FM and TV, Ughelli Delta State.
Others are Hon. Johnson Erijo, former member Delta State House of Assembly, captains of industries across Delta state and Nigeria, various women groups, friends and well wishers too numerous to mention amongst others.
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The Management of Shebah Exploration & Production Company Ltd (SEPCOL) in RECIEVERSHIP, have provided an update on the explosion and subsequent fire that engulfed the FPSO Trinity Spirit located at the Ukpokiti Terminal, in the early hours of Wednesday, 2nd of February 2022.
The update was contained in a press statement signed by Mr. Ikemefuna Okafor, Chief Executive Officer Shebah Exploration and Production Company Ltd (in RECEIVERSHIP) and made available to journalists today in Delta.
The update stated that the company has been working with the relevant authorities and stakeholders to contain the situation and an investigation has been launched to establish the cause of the explosion.
“We can confirm that the fire burnt out completely as of Thursday afternoon, 3rd Feb. 2022, and this has enabled closer inspection of the vessel. With this development, a Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) has been scheduled for Saturday, 5th February 2022, with the relevant authorities, stakeholders, and expert organisations.
“Currently, there are still no reported fatalities, and we continue prioritising investigations with respect to establishing the whereabouts, safety, and security of the ten crew members who were on board the vessel prior to the incident.
“We appreciate the assistance provided us by the Clean Nigeria Associates, the Chevron team, NOSDRA, NUPRC, SPDC and people in the community, particularly the fishermen, who have been of immense assistance since the incident occurred.
“Members of the public should continue to keep away from the area while our Crisis Management Team monitors developments in the investigations and update all stakeholders with new information accordingly”, it added.
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The Commissioner for Works (Urban and Highways), Mr Noel Omodon has tasked the construction company handling Sector ‘A’ of the Ughelli/Asaba Road Dualization to expedite action on the road before the rains commence.
Mr Omodon who stated this weekend while on inspection of the level of work on the project, explained that his visit was to ascertain the problems causing the slow pace of work on the project.
The commissioner gave an assurance that his ministry would work hand in hand with the contracting firm to ensure that the agents causing the delay of the project were surmounted and the project delivered within stipulated time frame.
Earlier, the project manager, Engr Abdallah Aoude, said the company is aware of the importance of delivering the road project as and when due,o hence has moved machines and equipment to site so as to expedite action on the road project.
According to Engr Aoude, the only problem the company has was getting laterite sand, saying that every effort was being made to buy a place to excavate for laterites.
“We have moved almost 56 equipments to site, mobilised staff but the problem we are facing is getting laterite sand for filling. Our community Liaison Officer has been moving around the communities around here to get a place to buy, but we have not succeeded,” the site engineer added.
He assured that once they were able to get a place to buy, the project would be completed and delivered in May this year.
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The 1970’s/1980’s set of students of St. Malachy’s College, Sapele, Old Boys’ Association (SMOBA), have handed over a renovated school hall to the management of the school in Sapele, Delta State.
The Honourable Commissioner for Primary Education, Hon.Chika Ossai, who was ably represented by the Chief Inspector of Education (CIE), CD Moritay at the ceremony, appreciated the old boys for remembering their Alma-mater and giving back to their foundation School.
The Principal of the school, Rev. Father Godwin Origho, thanked the SMOBA 70’s/80’s set for finding it worthy to embark on such a gigantic project and encouraged them not to relent in giving back to their school and not to forget their little beginning.
Old boys from across the country were present at the occasion and some who spoke, expressed dismay at the total neglect of the institution by the state government and called for the immediate intervention of His Excellency, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa to come to their aid in revamping the citadel of learning, which has almost gone into extinction due to land grabbers.
Almost half of the School compound has been sold to politicians in the state.
The SMOBA 70’s/80’s set led by old boy Daniel Aghedo and Pastor Lucky Oki, thanked the Honourable Commissioner for Primary Education for honouring the invitation to grace the event.
Highlights of the occasion, was the unveiling and the handing over of the refurbished Assembly Hall, which cost the old boys 11.5 Million Naira.
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The Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu has felicitated the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Delta State, Olorogun Barrister Kingsley Esiso on the auspicious occasion of his birthday anniversary.
Elumelu in a statement on Friday, February 4, 2022, thanked God for the life of Barrister Esiso and said that he has used a better part of his life for the service of God and humanity.
Elumelu described the State Chairman of the PDP as a quintessential political leader who has demonstrated steadfastness, loyalty and love for the party in Delta State, saying that his Chairmanship of the PDP in the State has been of tremendous value not only to the Party, but the State in general.
While celebrating Olorogun Kingsley Esiso for his maturity and charm, the Minority Leader applauded him for his devotion and incomparable support to the State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa in bringing about peace and unity in the PDP in the State, leading to series of victories in elections and maintaining Delta State as a stronghold of the Party in Nigeria.
“I am highly delighted to celebrate a man who has demonstrated so much energy and love for the peace, unity and progress of our great party in Delta State. Your immeasurable contribution to the stability in our party has impacted immensely to the Stronger Delta agenda of our tenacious and committed Governor, His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa.
“On behalf of my Family, the Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives, the People of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, and Delta State as a whole, I heartily rejoice and congratulate you on this momentous occasion of your birthday.
“You have been a great source of joy and hope to us in PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) family in Delta State and as you celebrate the mercy of God in your life today, we pray the Lord God Almighty to enrich and bless you with good health and many more exceptional years ahead for service to God and humanity,” Elumelu prayed.
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Wife of Delta State Governor and founder, O5 Initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, has lamented the orgy of moral decadence among Nigerian youths, saying that much is expected from the foundational upbringing of children by mothers.
The First Lady, while hosting the 15th edition of the ‘Mothers Arise’ prayer conference held on Wednesday, February 02, 2002 at the Government House Chapel, Asaba.
She explained that Mothers in the present generation have failed God in their responsibilities in adequately seeking the Divine will of God for their children’s upbringing.
She however, decried the continuous decline in moral values amongst children and youths in the country, enjoining Mothers to urgently arise in prayers to secure the future of their children.
“The evil going on in our nation today is an open secret, we see things that we are too ashamed to talk about.
“As mothers, our hearts bleed at the level of evil our eyes and ears are witnesses to.
“Things have so declined that we are gradually getting to a point where we are not sure of a tomorrow anymore.
“We desire a tomorrow and we desire to see the generations after us take over from us and that is why we have gathered to pray as mothers.
“There is nothing too difficult for God to do”.
In a sermon, with the theme, ‘Breaking the Cycle of Destruction’, Barr. Kesiena Samson, opinened that the family has abandoned it’s responsibilities and God’s primary purposes, emphasized that the future of the Nigerian youth was at serious stake, admonishing that to raise godly children, every Mother must recognize the responsibility God had placed on her shoulder as a help mate to the man, and be firm to ensure the family succeed.
“This is an age marked and loaded with destruction. The children of this generation are addicted to drugs, they are lazy students who prefer to cheat in examinations, they use faked satanic anointing to deceive people.
“The teenagers have become ritualists who use their mothers as sacrificial lambs to make money”.
Earlier in an a welcome charge, Mrs. Ngozi Bama admonished mothers to brace up to the challenge of raising godly children that would stand for God, but blamed Mothers for the evils being perpetrated by youths in Nigeria as some mothers now aid and abet their children.
She stressed that training children entails teaching them the word of God, modeling righteousness and leading by example.
Ministers of the gospel, including Evelyn Okoma, Pastor Chuks Anizor, Rev. Charles Osemenam and Pastor Greg Onyechie led the congregation through intercessory prayers for youths, fathers, pastors and their wives, traditional rulers, the state and the nation to break the cycle of destruction.
The prayer meeting witnessed intercessory prayers of repentance, mercy and restoration on behalf of Nigeria youths, fathers, the clergy and traditional rulers by over 300 women.
The event which attracted dignitaries from different denominations, including wives of clergymen, political office holders and traditional rulers, had the wives of the immediate past Governor of the state, Deaconess Roli Uduaghan, former Deputy Governor, Mrs Esther Elue and Olu of Warri, Olori Ivie Emiko in attendance.
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CHIKE URIAH hails from Oshimili South Local Government Area and is the CEO of Nellsvile Enterprise. He is a round peg in a round hole having studied Agric Economics from the University of Benin. Interacting with him, one could see a young man who understood his passion, who has been able to apply all knowledge acquired, knew how best to source for funds and what he hoped to achieve with it.
got enrolled in YAGEP in the 2017/2018 Cycle and has done exceedingly well after three years. He has increased the number of his ponds from 3 to 14, acquired more equipment through a Central Bank agricultural loan, bought a plot of land for his permanent site and is currently a trainee of the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF). He speaks on his success.
“I am three years in Fish Production. I have 5,500 fish and 14 tarpaulin fish tanks. The progress has been slow but steady. I applied for Central Bank agric. loan immediately I got started up by the State Government. Though the process was rigorous, yet I got the approval for equipment as in 3 tarpaulin fish tanks of 10 X 15 feet, a 7.2 KVA generator, 2,000 fingerlings and 160 bags of fish feeds to bring them to table size. I have acquired a land for my permanent site. To crown it all, I am a trainee of the TEF.
“Apart from fish farming, I am in the process of acquiring skill in Website Designing. My interest is in Agricultural Technology with special focus on applications in farming. I want to develop software for record keeping and financial record in agriculture. I can be reached @ nellsvilefarms on Facebook and Instagram.
“YAGEP is an excellent agricultural policy of the State Government that needs to be sustained. To me, it is 90% successful. It is a business and every business needs sustainability, both financially and materially. As start-ups, we need to be nurtured for five years till we are very firm. Government is trying its best, but needs to try more in the area of public private partnership to boost the production of animal feeds because of high cost of feeds.”
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Professionals in the engineering field have been advised to up their game by proffering solutions to the challenges facing the profession, including housing deficits in the country.
Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, gave the advice at the 29th Founders’ Day Celebration of the Ikeja, Lagos Branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and the commissioning of the Engineering Resource Centre named in his honour, held at Ralph Alabi Engineering Centre, Ogba, Lagos, on Monday January 31, 2022.
He said: “I will urge engineers, in spite of the giant strides they have made, not to relent in their efforts at human development and progress in order to live up to the billing as merchants of applied knowledge. The best research and innovations will still take engineers to convert to reality.
“One major challenge of an urban centre like Lagos is housing shortage. According to the latest estimate, Lagos has 2.5 million housing deficits. This creates other problems of health, the environment and security.
“The overcrowding and high population density in some areas is a ticking time bomb in epidemics and pandemics of the future. Engineers should begin to design and construct low-cost houses that use less concrete and blocks and can be produced at very fast rate in order to decongest and restore sanity to these areas,” the Minister stated.
Speaking further on the role of professionals in setting minimum standards for development in the country, Ogbeni Aregbesola stated that professional bodies should put themselves in the position to ensure that the government is getting value for money on projects and that the public feel their impact on the way government conducts its business, so they can gain the respect and admiration of the public.
“More than anything, engineers and professionals in general, should re-horn their sense of role and responsibility to the society in a developing economy like ours. On roads, for instance, engineers and other professionals should come up on an annual basis the requirements and the cost of constructing different categories of roads in the different regions of the country.
“This will prevent just anyone from coming up with arbitrary figures that aid corruption and deplete public resources. Such template should be available on any public works. We need to entrench a culture of government officials and contractors being conscious that they are being watched and scrutinised and that they will be held accountable.
“Unless these professional bodies put themselves in the position to ensure that the government is getting value for money on projects and the public feel their impact on the way government conducts its business, they will find it difficult to gain the respect and admiration of the public and will be seen as part of the scams going on. In the developed world, it is these professional bodies that keep society in check and prevent people from going astray. Nigerian engineers therefore should be involved in the entrenchment of values – of works and service to the community,” Ogbeni Aregbesola stated.
The Minister also challenged engineers in the country to come up with creative ideas to provide energy and reduce the cost of electricity and petroleum products in the country.
“One other major national challenge is energy – for homes, vehicles and industrial uses. We have had enough talk on the energy deficits and challenges. Engineers should now take the lead. There should be new approaches to providing cheaper and affordable alternative sources of energy and conversion of our machines, vehicles and appliances to function with these innovations.
“When I visited Egypt some 10 to 15 years ago, I found out that most of their taxis were very old vehicles, none of them caused toxic pollution on the roads. That society as at then had perfected the use of gas to power their vehicles with the use of simple engineering equipment.
“I am therefore using this occasion to challenge our engineers to come up with very creative ideas to help the country reduce its cost of subsidising petroleum for Nigerians,” the Minister requested.
Speaking at the event, chairman of the occasion, Engr. T.S.G. Wudil, who is also the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, celebrated and appreciated the Ikeja Branch of the NSE for the visionary project, stating that when last he visited in 2015, many meaningful projects and contributions have been made to the Society by the branch.
“Since I came here in 2015, the branch has continued to grow and contribute to the professional development of Engineers in Nigeria.
“I can promise you that the national body will continue to support the growth of the branches and especially the Ikeja branch for its commitment to ensuring the professional development of her members,” the President stated.
Also speaking at the event, the special guest of honour, Dr. Taiwo Olayinka Afolabi, stated that he supported the project to ensure the growth of the Engineering profession.
“I personally supported this project to help bridge the gap between the classroom and the practising field. I’m sure with the opening of this building, the Rauf Aregbesola Engineering Resource Centre, the centre will help advance the cause of the Engineering profession in Nigeria,” Dr. Afolabi stated.
Also at the event were: former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Lasun Yusuf; Chairman of the SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi; former Commissioner for Education in the State of Osun, Engr. Kola-Omotunde Young; Special Adviser to the Minister, Hon. Bola Ilori; Deputy President of the NSE, Engr. Mrs. Oguntala, FNSE; Chairman of the Nigeria Mechanical Engineers, Engr. Funmi Akingbagbohun, FNSE; the oldest living Past Chairman of the NSE, Ikeja Branch, Engr Francis Oguamanam, current Ikeja Branch Chairman of the NSE and Chief Host, Engr. Olutosin Ogunmola amongst other special guests.
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Hearkening to calls by the Sokoto state chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Gov. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of Sokoto state on Monday agreed to begin a nationwide consultation on the desirability or otherwise of him pursuing a bid for the Presidency under the auspices of the PDP.
Gov. Tambuwal who recalled that the trajectory of his political career has shown a consistent struggle for democratic astuteness, also pointed out that he has never ventured into any political striving without seeking the approval and blessing of the people of his state as well as constituency.
He, therefore, concurred to start a nationwide consultation process that will enable him decide whether to throw his heart in the ring or not.
He said: “I have listened to our party leaders, women and youths on the call that I should initiate and begin the process of consultations with a view of running and contesting for the President of Nigeria under the banner of our great party,”
Thereafter, he proffered that he would launch the deliberations in earnest and announce what feedback he gets.
Going down memory lane, Gov. Tambuwal recalled that “the voices of wisdom, conscience and advices from our leaders reflecting, anchoring and leveraging on some part of my (political) history,” was accurate.”
He narrated that: “when members of the House of Representatives of the 7th Assembly approached with their desire for me to constest for the position of Speaker, I gave them certain conditions, one of which was that I have leaders – late President Shehu Shagari, former Governor Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko and two others in (Sokoto) state.
“I told them to go to my state and consult with these leaders. If they bless your initiative, I will accept your proposal and contest for the Speaker.
“When they came to Sokoto, President Shehu Shagari of blessed memory admonished them that: ‘if you are putting our son forward as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, your efforts must not be sectional or religious,’ “ he stressed, pointing to the direction of current political pursuits which thrust, he notes, must be based on a genuine effort to produce a President for the benefit of Nigeria and Nigerians.
Muhammad Bello is Special Adviser Media and Publicity to the Governor of Sokoto State.
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The Federal Government has revealed plan to launch the National Strategy Plan on Combatting Illegal Wildlife and Forest Crime in the country.
Addressing a press conference on Monday in Abuja, the Minister of State for Environment, Chief Sharon Ikeazor said the country has recently developed the National Strategy Plan on Combatting Illegal Wildlife and Forest Crime in Nigeria in collaboration with the UNODC.
She revealed that this is due to be launched on the 3rd of March, noting that this strategy document will facilitate the implementation of our policies and initiative aimed at protecting, restoring and promoting the sustainable use of our biodiversity.
She said: “The National Park Services has been in collaboration with NESREA, other relevant agencies like the Nigerian Customs Service to check illegal trafficking and trade in endangered species of wildlife in Nigeria and have made considerable success with seizures. Sensitization campaigns against illegal wildlife are being carried out across the country.”
Ikeazor disclosed that: “We are commencing the Implementation of the National Biosecurity Policy and Action Plan 2022-2026, to guarantee a functional biosecurity system using the one-health approach to minimizing the risks of biological threats to the biodiversity and to humans.”
She said: “Protecting, restoring and sustainably managing Nigeria’s ecosystems could provide more than a third of our climate change mitigation solutions.”
She promised that: “The Federal Ministry of Environment will continue to strive in achieving the set mandates despite all challenges while repositioning her agencies for effective implementation of policies, regulations and projects.”
The Minister disclosed that in the area of afforestation, the national afforestation programme under the green bond project has successfully forested 6,191,363 hectares of land through the green bond project implemented by; Forest Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), National NAGGW, Department of Desertification, land degradation and drought management, National Parks Service (NPS), NGOs, State Governments, Private planters and international stakeholders.
She said: “In addition, a total of 6,550,056 seedlings, were raised, distributed to state governments and institutions and planted by Forest Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), Federal Department of Forestry, Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF) and tree restoration and planting company in 2020 under the forestry trust fund initiative.”
She noted that: “The most significant action taken towards playing our role in climate change mitigation and adaptation is the signing of the Climate change bill into law by Mr President, in November 2021.”
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From the most part of March 2020 to date, I have observed that Borno’s governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, abandons the executive red chair, and desk in his main office at the Government House in Maiduguri.
So far, Prof has left that elegant ‘seat of power’ largely idled for nearly two years.
On Thursday, May 30, 2019, Professor Zulum, for the first time, sat on that powerful red seat, flanked by two Nigerian flags in the elegant office of the governor. He continued to sit on the same red seat whenever he was at his office.
Suddenly, around March 2020, the Professor began to neglect that red seat of power. But why?
By his nature, Professor Zulum is exceedingly a workaholic, an extraordinary goal-getter and he is very time-conscious. It is difficult to hold a 15-minute dialogue without Prof unconsciously talking about one project, programme or policy.The governor’s mind and office are always about work.
While Zulum was using the red chair, he often had to move back and forth between the cosy red seat and a green conference table surrounded by nine chairs at the centre of his office. He prefers to hold meetings on the conference table rather than surrounded around the red seat.
Ahead of every work day, Prof would line up a number of individuals or groups of persons he either invited or gave appointments. For each person or group, he would allocate time, and always conscious of the time he sets. When anyone arrives, Prof would start with a brief salutation and go straight to the point, aiming to conclude individual sessions within five to 10 minutes and offering slightly more time for groups, depending on the issue in focus. Severally, the governor would host commissioners with heads of establishments under their supervisions and technical officials relating to particular projects around the green conference table. Perhaps, because Prof is too time-conscious, the speed with which he hosts meetings and deals with all kinds of issues, makes it less necessary for him to shift from the green conference table back the red ‘seat of power’. With time, Prof unconsciously stopped alternating between the red ‘seat of power’ and the green conference table. It is now nearly two years since Professor Zulum has only been operating from that green conference table, at the expense of the red ‘seat of power’.
I beg your pardon, I think from March 2020 to date, Professor Zulum did sit on the red ‘seat of power’, about 10 to 15 times, and in most instances, he was video recorded for state-widebroadcasts in the heat of the COVID-19 pandemic back in 2020, ahead of the June 12 democracy days in 2020 and 2021, and over some serious issues of public concerns.
Aside those momentous occasions, the red ‘seat of power’ stayed empty. Prof continues to operate from the green conference table whenever he is at the office.
But is there a potential message in Professor Zulum’s‘addiction’ to his office’s conference table rather than the red seat?
In her 2019 research article on the ‘psychology of conference tables’ published by Science of People.com, a behavioural scientist, Vanessa Van Edwards, infers that conference tables convey meanings of serious business and each seat, from that of the boss, to every seat around the conference table, conveysa particular meaning. She implies that anyone walking towards a conference table is bound to develop the mentality of becoming work-focused and less of sociality, whichdefinitely fit into the very nature of Prof Zulum.
As a Professor, who writes and reads a lot of research articles, Zulum apparently realized that seating around a conference table, rather than on the red ‘seat of power’ sends a message to everyone coming into the governor’s office – it’s nothing but work.
Of course, Professor Zulum’s operation from a conference table does not mean that other governors and chief executives who use their official ‘seats of power’ are not dedicated orefficient. It is a matter of style! After all, Zulum himself is far more addicted to working in the field, an attribute from his engineering training, a professor at that discipline.
And as I once wrote, Zulum is an early riser. His work clock begins from 6 am and ends between 11 pm and 12midnight.
Most times, he would send invitations at night to assemble government officials who head organs of particular sectors, particularly education, healthcare and humanitarian services. The officials converge between 6am and 7am next day at the government house. Prof would then appear, often driving himself, to lead a small convoy of two or three private vehicles. At that point, officials who may have fallen short of meeting project targets after being funded may then start praying that the Prof does not visit their projects’ sites. Perhaps, the Prof, as a strict religious adherent, offers counter-prayers earlier at dawn before he sets out. So, he ends up heading straight to the sites that the officials do not want him to visit. Zulum detests poor performances and he rewards productivity so fast, and so well.
I should also hint that Prof has a number of trusted youths that he regularly assigns to obtain corroborative footages and photographs on work progresses, to compare with whatever reports he gets from officials in charge of projects and programmes. No matter how much Zulum trusts any official, the Professor rarely relies entirely on a single source of information. Consistently, he demands corroborative evidences from different sources and his style makes falsehoods less likely to come his way.
Regularly, Prof Zulum argues that keen monitoring and evaluation is one of the key enablers of the successes in private sectors when compared with public sectors. Zulum often cites that some workers earn more in public sectors but less dedicated compared to private workers with less pay, duelargely to strict monitoring and evaluation in private sectors.
In the meantime, Zulum had in his 2022 budget address,announced a critical plan to introduce a new system of effective monitoring and evaluation in Borno’s public institutions, starting with schools, hospitals and water services.
Certainly, Zulum’s regular monitoring keep heads of public institutions on their toes, especially when they know that the governor can show up at oddest hours. More so, Professor Zulum does not appear to enjoy relaxing in the office, a(subconscious) attitude that has left largely empty, the governor’s red ‘seat of power’.
Isa Gusau is a Special Adviser and spokesman to Governor Zulum.
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It is becoming increasingly difficult to understand the nuances of the Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, especially in recent times.
The much acclaimed and widely proclaimed defender of the Yoruba nation is gradually indulging in the antithetical ethos, detrimental to the spirit of its foundational objectives and goals.
Her recent campaign for the power shift to the South East when capable people from her traditional extraction has signified interest to run for the presidency, speaks volumes of her pursuit of a personal vendetta than her love for equity, fairness and justice.
This is not to say that the South East does not deserve it, though. It is long overdue even when Afenifere compromised and threw her weight behind Obasanjo second term bid, which saw to the defeat of all AD states except Lagos state, in 2003.
So, one can truly appreciate and understand the angle from which the fractionalised socio-cultural organisation is coming when they declared that, not ceding the nation’s Presidency to the south East amounts to a “gang-up”.
There is no denying the fact that the raging factional wars within the Afenifere family, championed by Pa Ayo Adebanjo on one hand and the erstwhile governor of Ogun state, Chief Segun Osoba, is still on.
This has led to the divisions and the watering down of an hitherto strong force and voice of the Yoruba nation, such that personal sentiments are erroneously been mistaken for the collective position of the embattled group.
Politics is a game of numbers fraught with negotiations, compromises, alignment and realignment. The Igbo nation understand this and thus do not need Afenifere to remind them of their perennial pain. They must not make a mountain out of a mole hill.
Austen AKHAGBEME is a Columnist with Blank NEWS Online
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The People’s Republic of China has promised to deepen cooperation with Nigeria to overcome major challenges of the country and to enhance development especially in the face of COVID-19.
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun gave the promise in Abuja on Thursday during the commemoration of the 2022 Chinese New Year celebration tagged “The year of the Tiger”.
Cui said that as China marks its new year, and also in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic going down, it is a great opportunity to assist African countries, especially Nigeria in new areas.
He said: “The year of Tiger is really very important for China I do believe that in the year 2022, after the COVID pandemic we will embark on new cooperation.
“I just laid out that we have five strategic goals and also we have five prioritized areas within infrastructure, ICT, industry, investments, imports, exports.
“So I do believe that in the year 2022, China is working hard on building our second goal and during this process, it is very important for two countries to work together.”
He added that: “For Nigeria it is also very important and it is good for both countries to try to utilize the atmosphere of Tiger year.
“That means we will have ambition, we will have bravery, we will have strength, not only defeating the difficulties of the COVID-19 but will embark on deeper, broadened cooperation.”
Cui said that during the last Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in November 2021 in Senegal, Presidnet Xi Jinping pledged to scale up Chinese interventions in Africa in nine major sectors.
“President laid out the initiatives between China and Africa the most important thing that we have nine programs.
He noted that: “The first is about health, the second is poverty alleviation, the third is trade promotion, the fourth is about investment, the fifth is about green development, the sixth is about economy, seventh agriculture.
“The eight is about people-to-people communication the ninth is about security. And of paramount importance is that we have to focus of security.”
He said: “I want to share with you that the Chinese law enforcement is working with the Nigeria side, but how can we create a favorable condition to attract investment, this is of paramount importance.”
Cui however said as the 14th Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, he is working vigorously to ensure implementations in the above listed areas of priorities.
Dr Ifeoma Anyanwutaku, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and Culture while congratulating the government and people of China on the event of their New Year’s celebration, said: “Based on the great diplomatic ties between Nigeria and China in the past 50 years, Nigeria has witnessed renewed impetus for cultural understanding between both countries.
She said: “Significant days such as the Chinese New Year celebration which is also known as the Lunar New Year therefore remains very important to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“I wish to reiterate the commitments of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to forge better cultural relations with the People’s Republic of China.”
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The people of Chibok local government area of Borno State have decried the neglect of their area by the government, which has left them vulnerable to Boko Haram attacks.
Chibok got famous when on April 14, 2014 Boko Haram invaded a school in their community, abducting over 270 schoolgirls.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Saturday, Kibaku Area Development Association (KADA), an association of people from Chibok local government area of Borno State, lamented that since the break out of insurgency attacks over a decade ago, their area had been attacked over 72 times, with over 407 persons killed.
The group also lamented that over 332 persons have been abducted in the council, over 20 churches burnt, unquantifiable houses and businesses burnt, vehicles stolen and grains barns burnt or destroyed by the terrorist group.
The group, which was led to the press conference by the National President of KADA, Dauda Iliya said: “We are on behalf of the entire Chibok Community, using this medium to once again call on President Muhammadu Buhari to rescue Chibok Community, an ethnic nationality, from total annihilation by the Boko Haram Terrorists. This is because since the mass abduction of our 276 daughters in April, 2014, wherein 57 escaped (on their own) we still have 110 of them still unaccounted for.
“The parents and the Community have continued to be subjected to persistent and sustained attacks, killings, abductions, maiming, arsons and other myriads of criminality without adequate government protection. Chibok has been for all intents and purposes abandoned to its own devices by all layers of government in Nigeria.
“Right from late 2012 up to this time, the statistics of the state of damage and destruction of lives and property inflicted on the Community presents a worrisome and pathetic picture.”
They alleged that: “From late 2018 to date, the frequency of attacks and level of destruction have escalated and are simply alarming. Just this year (2022) alone, Kautikari (second largest town in Chibok area) was attacked on January 14 with five girls abducted, three persons killed, many houses and churches burnt, etc. In sustaining their carnage, Piyemi, another big town in Chibok area, was attacked on January 20 with 19 persons (mostly girls) abducted and one person, the Vigilante leader, beheaded!”
They added that: “The town was practically razed down and virtually all the recently harvested agricultural produce completely burnt down and/or looted. Chibok is predominantly an agrarian community and the whole year’s harvests have been lost to these sustained and targeted attacks posing serious food security concerns in the community.
“We call on all well-meaning Nigerians and Mr. President in particular, to rise up to the occasion and urgently save our people from total annihilation and starvation.”
They asked government to synergize with security forces in confronting the menace so as to end the sustained carnage on the people of Chibok and facilitate the return of the remaining 110 daughters abducted in 2014 and numerous others subsequently abducted at different times; for the immediate setting up of IDP Camps in Chibok town and provide Chibok with skills acquisition centre so as to avoid imminent hunger/starvation.
They also requested the federal government to order deployment of more military personnel as well as better arms to Chibok to halt the continuous attacks on the community and plead with Borno State Governor to do more in organizing and helping the people of the area in securing the state in general and Chibok in particular from attacks.
They condoled the Nigerian Army for the loss of gallant soldiers including the very brave Brigadier General B. K. Zirkushu who lost their lives in Askira protecting the people against the invading terrorists on November 13, 2021.
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The Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, has felicitated with the Monarch of Issele-uku kingdom in Aniocha North Local government area, Delta State, His Royal Majesty, Agbogidi Obi Nduka, on the occasion of his birthday and 5th coronation anniversary on the throne .
Elumelu in a statement on Saturday said that Obi Nduka has remained one of the Royal Fathers who has brought standard and dignity to the traditional institution, not only in Delta state, but Nigeria as a whole.
Elumelu commended the king for his charisma and intellectual capacity that he brought to bear in his reign on the throne of the ancient kingdom of Issele-uku, saying that his royal impact has translated to peace, progress and prosperity of the people of the kingdom.
“You have remained humble, empathic to the plight of oligbo people, principled, focused, God fearing ruler and an epitome of royalty with high regards. Your actions, since your ascension to the throne has helped in no small measure, in promoting the cherish dignity that our traditional institution is known for and we are indeed very proud of you.
“Your Royal Majesty, on behalf of the entire Elumelu family, the people of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State and Nigeria in general, I sincerely felicitate with you on this auspicious occasion of your birthday and 5th anniversary on the throne of your forefathers,” the Minority Leader said.
While praying God to bless, sustain and give the Monarch divine health and many more momentous reign on the throne of his forefathers, Elumelu also congratulated him on his appointment into the Delta State Traditional Rules Council and said that it is another opportunity for the young and highly regarded king, to do more for the upliftment of the traditional institution in the State.
Elumelu who represents Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, in the same vain, congratulated the other Royal Fathers from his constituency, appointed into the State Traditional Rules Council, and appreciated the State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for the appointments.
He urged the Monarchs to join hands together with their counterparts in the Council to sustain the existing peace in the State in consonance with the Stronger Delta mantra of the State Governor.
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The Commissioner for Works (Urban and Highways), Mr Noel Omodon, has assured that the construction of the 10.43km Boji-Boji/Otolokpo and Umunede/Owa-Alero Roads in Ika North East Local Government Area will be completed and delivered to the State Government in October 2022.
Mr Omodon who gave the assurance yesterday while inspecting the projects, explained that the essence of the roads was to open up all the agrarian communities in that corridor for easy transportation of agricultural produce to the urban markets.
The works commissioner expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace with which the projects are being handled, even as he urged the contracting firms handling the projects to take full advantage of the dry season to expedite action on the roads.
While reiterating government’s desire to completie all ongoing projects before the administration winds down, advised contractors handling projects in his ministry to maintain standards and specifications.
Earlier, the Site Engineer for Messrs Sharpstone Nig Ltd, the contracting firm handling the Boji Boji-Otolokpo Road, Engr John Okonobe, explained that the 10.43km road was awarded in March 202, adding that the first layer of earth works have been completed on the total length of the road.
According to him, the only challenge faced by the construction firm was insufficient length of drains due to some critical sections of the road where drains are needed to discharge into the borrow pit.
Engr Okonobe however said that an additional three borrow pits have been acquired where the other drains would be discharged into, having exhausted the first three borrow pits.
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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa (Ekwueme), has finally cleared the air on how his successor will emerge in 2023. In case you missed it, the great Ekwueme himself gave the clarification, during the mega rally held at the cenotaph to welcome the avalanche of top members and chieftains of the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, on Saturday, January 22nd, 2022,
This is an excerpt of what Governor Okowa said: “We are one family in PDP; we cannot fight and we will never fight; at the appropriate time, it will be well with us. But, one thing I have always promised and I still promise today is that there will always be free and fair primaries; so, there is no room to fight.
“There is no room to quarrel, let us work together as one family that we are and ensure that PDP stays continuously as a family.”
There you have it, from the Governor’s mouth himself, clearing the air on how the next Governorship candidate and indeed all the candidates for the other National and State Assemblies positions, will emerge from their respective primaries, in the PDP.
Of course, the Movement for Stronger Delta, MSD, is quite confident and there’s no doubt whatsoever, that anyone who picks the ticket to contest as a PDP Candidate in any election in the State, is as good as winning that election, for the simple reason that the PDP is and has always been the most loved, the most united, the most organized and obviously the best-prepared party for any election in the State.
Just as Governor Okowa himself declared at the rally: “We are advising those who want to run in other political parties not to waste their time and money because there is no space for them in Delta. We work as a family with the love of God, but in the other parties, they are always fighting themselves,” the governor said.
Amazingly, since the Governor cleared the air on how his successor will emerge in the PDP and subsequently as the next Governor of Delta State, by the Grace of God, all those naysayers, negative propagandists, rumour mongers, ethnic jingoists and all those trying to use devious methods to blackmail the governor to announce their names, and who had earlier gone to town to spread all manner of tales and fables about Okowa fighting some people and supporting other people, have suddenly become very mute and quiet.
Now that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has laid to rest, the wild speculations and allegations on how his successor will emerge, “their eyes don clear” and they have now withdrawn into their empty shells, apparently shocked by the clarity, transparency, and simplicity of the process which, funny enough, has been the one and the most recognized way such matters have been decided in the PDP, right from time.
The point to be made now is the fact that whether President Muhammadu Buhari assents to the Electoral Bill or not, the existing status quo, which gives political parties the option of using either the direct or indirect method to conduct their primaries, has been maintained and retained.
Even in the event of consensus, which is the third stipulated method, it still behooves a responsible political party to conduct a transparent primaries, where the consensus candidate will be endorsed either by the votes of the accredited delegates or by the entire membership of the party.
Deltans will recall that Governor Okowa was the only member of the PDP who picked the gubernatorial form in the PDP, for the 2019 Guber primaries and was successfully screened in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to participate in the primary election.
The primary was properly conducted and Mrs. Uzo Nwandu, Chairman of the PDP Delta State gubernatorial primary elections, declared Governor Okowa winner with a score of 3, 252 votes, in a poll that had 3, 278 accredited delegates from different local government areas of the State and 26 invalid votes.
Before him also, Chief James Ibori emerged from well conducted guber primaries for the 1999 and 2003 elections; Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan went through rigorous, keenly contested primaries especially the one in 2007 and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa himself, after the 2007 primaries also faced a robust and fiercely fought primary election, which was even televised live, in his 2011 Senatorial bid. So, free, fair and transparent primaries, which everyone can see, have always been the way for the PDP.
It is on record however that most political parties have always adopted the indirect method for their primaries which, by its very nature, is a delegates election and it will therefore not be out of place to advise all those aspiring to become Governor of Delta State in 2023, to start preparing themselves for any of the methods which the PDP would eventually adopt for its primaries.
History has shown that the delegates election is quite interesting and exciting because anybody who is not even a politician or an elected or appointed political office holder, but who is well prepared and has done his/her homework properly, also has a very fantastic chance of carrying the day at the polls.
In the 2015 PDP primaries, for instance, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who was then a Senator and the Senate Committee Chairman on Health, had scored 406 votes to come out tops and Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, who was then the ex-Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, had polled 185 to come out third.
But, Mr. David Edevbie, whose only remarkable political credential is arguably his appointment as a Commissioner in the Delta State Exco, “miraculously” polled a whooping 299 votes, apparently enjoying the support of some powerful interests, to come out second and defeat some very core and notable politicians, amongst the 18 aspirants that contested the primary election. In the end, the process was adjudged to be free, fair, and very transparent.
Indeed, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s leadership and guidance of the PDP, since he assumed Office as Delta Governor, has been hallmarked by his unflinching insistence and commitment to ensure that the people, especially at the grassroots, must be allowed to determine who will be their representatives at all levels, because power belongs to the people.
He has instilled this excellent philosophy in the elective processes of the PDP, thus making the party one big, happy family and the result is that virtually all the candidates who have emerged as PDP Flagbearers, have gone on to enjoy landslide victories in all the elections conducted under his watch, because of the overwhelming support they have enjoyed from the entire membership of the party in their various Zones and Constituencies.
The former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori, was to sum up Governor Okowa’s leadership of the party, during the Asaba mega rally, with these choice words: “I thank you [Okowa] for the job you are doing in Delta State and at the national level for the benefit of Nigerians. I most especially thank you for what I am seeing here today because you have done very well in Delta State and I cannot be more proud that you are our Governor today.
“You are leading us very well and it is our duty, and we are all committed to saying that you will finish very strong and at the end of the day we will all gather to thank God for you. From what I can see here you have provided an atmosphere for a free and fair contest and you have provided an atmosphere for people’s aspirations to be heard without intimidation whatsoever.
“Of a truth, this was the philosophy behind the formation of this great party when I said in 1998 that democracy is about opening up the space and environment for everybody to aspire to whatever he or she believes in and I thank you for continuing with that vision. I want to thank you on behalf of the teeming members of our party and pray that God will continue to guide you as you lead us in the years ahead,’’ Ibori said.
And so, now that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has cleared the air on how his successor will emerge, the onus rests on all serious, honest, capable and responsible aspirants, to start preparing for the primaries to come, no matter the method the party will adopt.
The PDP and Governor Okowa (Ekwueme) will always provide a free and fair atmosphere for its primaries and for any member of the party to pursue and fulfill their ambitions, so that the best man/woman will emerge and consolidate on the visionary mandate of building a #StrongerDelta for Deltans in 2023.
That, as we have always declared, is the SIMPLE Agenda.
Signed: MOVEMENT FOR STRONGER DELTA (MSD)
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EMMANUEL UCHE is our STEPreneur for the week. He hails from Aniocha North Local Government Area and holds a BSC in Medical Biochemistry from the University of Benin. He got enrolled in the Delta State Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP) in the 2016/2017 Cycle as a way out of unemployment and has no regrets about his decision.
Trained and established in Electrical Installation and Repairs, he is the CEO of Marvict Electrical Store, Issele-Uku. He is efficient and knowledgeable in his line of enterprise. He has installed electricity in over 60 buildings. He is a resource person and a trainer with the State Government’s Rural Youth Skills Acquisition (RYSA.) Hear him,
“I have trained 34 persons and currently have 7 trainees from RYSA in my centre. I have featured in a number of exhibitions, and was part of the team of electricians that installed electricity in the venue for the 2017 Job Creation Product Exhibition.
“Consistency, availability and customer care are the hallmark for any successful business. I have taken electrical installation to the next level by going for re-training in Transformer Installation and Repair at Obosi in Anambra State, which has enhanced my marketability and increased the quality of clients attracted to me. “I have two employees and have achieved a lot for himself and my family in the past five years. I have a flourishing electrical shop; have bought a car and am building a house.”
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President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed support for the Beijing 2022 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, wishing Nigerian athletes participating in games success.
The President in a statement on Tuesday by his Special Adviser (Media & Publicity), Femi Adesina read: “On behalf of all Nigerians, President Muhammadu Buhari wishes Nigerian athletes participating in the Beijing 2022 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games success at the competition.”
The statement further read that: “President Buhari trusts that Nigerian athletes participating in different events will excel at the competition, surpassing the previous record in PyeongChang, South Korea, in 2018, when the nation competed for the first time.
“Recognising that the Olympic Games is a platform for closer friendship and cooperation between countries, the Nigerian leader sincerely hopes that all athletes, in the pursuit of their Olympic dream, would promote the core values of the Games: excellence, friendship and respect.
“The President congratulates China on hosting the Winter Olympics, lauding Beijing for making history as the first “dual Olympic city” in the world’s Olympic history, having hosted the Summer Olympics in 2008.”
The statement added that: “As a friendly and brotherly country to Nigeria, President Buhari affirms the support of the Nigerian government and its people to China.
“He believes that with China’s rich experience in organising international events, the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, with the slogan “Together for a Shared Future”, will be delivered as a splendid, exceptional and extraordinary Olympic event for the world.”
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Africans Rising for Justice, Peace & Dignity has identified growing discontentment with elected leaders as the cause of growing coup d’etat in Africa
The comment came after the military take-over of government in Burkina Faso, which increase the country where democratically elected government was forcefully removed to five in the last one year as Guinea, Sudan, Mali and Chad had earlier witnessed coup d’etat.
Africans Rising for Justice, Peace and Dignity, a Pan-African social movement of over 30,000 members working to foster an Africa-wide solidarity and unity of purpose of the peoples of Africa, in a statement on Wednesday, while condemning the coup by armed forces in Burkina Faso, said: “We know the military takeover is a manifestation of citizens’ frustrations with the country’s leadership, but a coup is never a long-term solution for peace.”
The Movement said: “As we have seen across the continent, a coup d’etat is often a symptom of a people and a country that feel their constitutional governments are unable to bring promised development and stability.
“Such is the case in Burkina Faso, where years of protests have been held by activists and concerned citizens calling out their government’s inability to protect them from terrorist attacks, which have resulted in over 2000 deaths since 2016 and the displacement of more than 1.5 million Burkinabes in the past decade.”
Africans Rising Movement Co-Coordinator, Muhammed Lamin Saidykhan, in the statement was quoted to have said: “The people of Burkina Faso are tired of living under the threat of violence and they demand a political leadership that can effectively defend their human right to safe and secure living,” adding that: “As a Pan-African movement of the people, Africans Rising fully supports their rights to a peaceful existence and a stable democratic government.”
The Movement however called on military leaders for the safe release of President Roch Marc Christian Kaboré from detention, stating that: “We strongly urge the Junta to engage in a peaceful resolution to the recent mutiny and to hand over civilian rule as immediately as possible. During this time, the military must respect all the freedoms granted to Burkinabes, including the freedoms of movement and expression.”
The Movement added that: “We call on international bodies like ECOWAS and the African Union to take measures to ensure the safety and well-being of Burkina Faso’s citizens and protected during this critical moment. International human rights organizations, like Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, must be vigilant observers of the events developing in the country so that any issues of injustice can be addressed by the appropriate authorities.
“Africans Rising hopes to see a prompt return to civilian leadership in Burkina Faso. It is with the people that our our movement stands.”
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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Michael J. EKOKORUWE:
Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has commended Chief Edwin Uzor, Special Adviser to the Governor on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, for the state peace advocacy and capacity building workshop and assured of government continuos support towards the success of the programme.
Governor Okowa gave the commendation at Ika federal constituency, during the peace advocacy workshop held at the 500 – capacity lecture hall, University of Delta, Owa-Oyibo campus, Delta State.
Okowa, represented by Rt. Hon. Festus Ovie Agas, Chief of Staff Government House said, since inception of the office of the Special Adviser on peace building and conflict resolution was created, the narrative of the department has changed for good.
He stated that without peace and security, there cannot be development, emphasizing that Delta State has been relatively peaceful and doing well, compared to some states in Nigeria. The governor commended traditional rulers, the clergy and stakeholders for their role in peace and security of the state.
Okowa urged traditional rulers to always assist the government to communicate government programmes and policies to the people as they are nearer, just as he urged Chief Edwin Uzor to take the peace advocacy to more communities and streets of Delta State.
Speaking during the workshop, Chief Uzor said, efforts are made to identify communities where there is threat to peace and nip such crisis on the bud, adding that petitions received are resolved so that such issues do no escalate into intra or inter community unrest.
He noted that communities must have peace and live in peace, which according to him, is essential for all forms of infrastructural development as crisis and hostile behaviour brings about underdevelopment, disunity and poverty.
Uzor enjoined traditional rulers, community leaders, opinion leaders, women and the youth to be proactive and handle crisis in their communities, adding that the purpose of the workshop is to develop the skill and ability of community stakeholders to identify and address symptoms of conflicts and deal decisively with their root causes before they escalate into violence.
For his part, the chairman of the workshop for Ika federal constituency, Chief Festus Okubor said, “No Nation or society can grow without peace, emphasizing that Delta State under Governor Okowa has experienced peace as never before and commended Chief Uzor for the peace initiatives in Delta State. He urged stakeholders to deepen the peace in their various communities.
Traditional rulers from Ika federal constituency who presented goodwill messages commended Governor Okowa and Chief Uzor for the peace advocacy workshop, noting that Governor Okowa has achieved because of the peace in Delta state, adding that the crisis experienced in some parts of Nigeria is the absence of peace and urged government to put more efforts in sustaining the existing peace.
The peace advocacy workshop had the theme; “Peace for All; More Gains, Zero Pains”, just as three lectures were delivered by Dr. David Oba, Department Of Science National Open University of Nigeria, who spoke on “Communal Crisis and Hostile Behaviours; Victims and Pains”, and Uwomano Ben Okpevra Ph.D, Delta State University Abraka who spoke on “Fostering Harmonious Peaceful Co-existence in the community; A veritable tool for Economic Transformation”, while Amb. Mrs. Caroline Usikpedo – Oliseowe, Special Assistant to Governor Okowa on Youth Development who spoke on “The Role of Youths in Facilitating Enabling Environment for a Harmonious Working Synergy between Host Communities and Investors”.
In attendance were the Commissioner for Information, Hon. Charles Aniagwu, traditional rulers and clergy from Ika nation, Special Assistants, Executive Assistants, Special Advisers to Governor Okowa on Peace Building And Conflict Resolution, selected stakeholders from Ika federal constituency among others.
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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Michael J. EKOKORUWE:
The governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has urged the youths of the state to avoid violent elections during the coming 2023 electionairing campaigns, resist the actors of “I must win” and use peace as slogan and watch-word towards enduring peace in Delta State.
Governor Okowa made the statement during the peace advocacy workshop, organised by the office of the Special Adviser to the governor on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution on the theme; “Peace for All: More Gains, Zero Pains”, for Warri Federal constituency, held at Unity Hall, Delta State Government House Annex, Warri.
Governor Okowa represented by the Hon. Commissioner Bureau for Special Duties, Mr. Johnbull Edema urged stakeholders, traditional rulers and community leaders to engage the people for the need of peace and how to live in peace and harmony, noting that the peace advocacy workshop was timely towards a peaceful environment and communities.
Speaking at the peace advocacy workshop, the Special Adviser to Governor Okowa on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, Chief Edwin Uzor, stated that the event was for selected stakeholders in search for enduring peace in communities for sustainable development, adding that “peace creates atmosphere for happiness communal living, mutual trust and steady human, economic and political development”.
Uzor enjoined the people to “bring an end to communal crisis and hostile behaviour and create an atmosphere of peace where the gains are many and the pains are absent”, and commended governor Okowa that has sustained a peaceful disposition in ensuring that Delta State remains peaceful and investment friendly.
He added that Okowa is committed to peace, security and the disire to bringing prosperity through the various policies and programmes initiated under the S.M.A.R.T Agenda to build a stronger Delta.
Uzor urged the people to eliminate hostile behaviours that are socially and economically devastating and attract back old business investments that has relocated and encourage new investors to come, noting that the mission of the special adviser to the governor on peace building and conflict resolution is to contribute to the peace and security of the state.
For his part, the Executive Chairman of Warri South local government area and chairman of the workshop for Warri Federal constituency, Hon. Michael Tidi Ph.D, commended Governor Okowa for approving the workshop in Warri South Federal constituency, noting that the peace and capacity building are panancia for economic development that we must continously build open.
Tidi noted that peace must be close to justice, adding that most of the violent conflict occur as a result of aggrieved youths being avoided for a long period of time, either by the people or government refusal to take necessary action in resolving the crisis.
He added that the workshop was to develop peace building and community advocacy towards the development of respective communities.
The chairman noted that nothing good comes from violence, as it slows than development and urged the people to put their differences outside and embrace peaceful co-existence.
The peace advocacy workshop goodwill messages was delivered by the representative of HRM Ogieme Atuwase 111, Olu of Warri, Warri kingdom and other traditional rulers from Warri South federal constituency, just as 3 lectures on “Communal Crisis and Hostile Behaviors; Victims and Pains”, “Fostering Harmonious Peaceful Co-existence in the Community; A veritable tool for Economic Transformation”, and “The Role of Youths in facilitating Enabling Environment for harmonious Working Synergy between Host Communities and Invsettors” were delivered by erudite scholars from the academia, peace ambassadors and practitioners.
In attendance was senior special advisers, special advisers, executive assistants and special assistants to Governor Okowa on peace building and conflict resolution, traditional rulers and community representatives from Warri South federal constituency.
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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Albert OGRAKA/Prosper ETENE:
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairman, Isoko South local Government Area of Delta State, Odio Obaro Godspower, has advised the DC-23, to put its house together ahead of the 2023 governorship elections.
Odio Obaro, gave the advice while speaking on behalf of the leaders and stakeholders of Isoko South Local Government Area, when the Delta Central 2023 (DC-23) lobby group paid them consultative visit at James Otobo Ekpre hall, Isoko South Secretariat on Sunday 23rd January, 2022.
He said said, “The field appears to be overcrowded by your people; your children are overcrowding the field. We advise you to unite the political class in your district and also prune down your aspirants for easy primary election.
“The Urhobos and Isokos are one; Isoko is closer to us than any other tribe. The governorship of Delta state has been rotated round; it has gone to Delta South, Delta North and Delta Central. We want it to come back to where we started.
“We have been one like you have seen; from time we have been one, and it’s not in our era that we are going to have a separation. We only do hope like an English man said, one good turn deserves another.
“We want Delta Central to stand by their word of supporting Isoko and Delta South Senatorial District in 2031. On this note, I want to personally request Isoko South Political Leaders to stand behind Urhobo, because it is the turn of Delta Central. However, remember us when it is the turn of Delta South to produce the governor in 2031.
“We want to also let you know that our Governor, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa, has done very well in the overall development of the state. We urge you to support him to finish strong.”
Earlier, the National Chairman of DC-23, Senator (Chief) Ighoyota Amori, stated that the body was a lobby group made up of card carrying members of the PDP in the Delta Central Senatorial District to lobby support for the governorship seat for the district in 2023.
He noted that the DC-23 was not different from the G-3 of the Delta South Senatorial District that was formed to drive the process of election of immediate past governor of the state, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, and the Anioma Agenda that was formed in 2014 to propel the process of election of the current governor of the state, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa.
in attendance were, Bashorun Askia Ogieh, Chief Solomon Ogba, Chief Ross Uredi, Hon. Johnson Erijo, Hon. Mrs Blessing Uzoge, Hon. High Chief Ferguson Onwo, Hon. Ovuakpoye Evivie, Hon. Churchill Amagada, Hon. Bino Obuwomano, Chief Joe Arausi, Chief Onojerame Benjamin, Hon. Orezi Esievo.
Other are Hon. Benjamin Efekodo, Barr. Rev. Godwin Adolor, Hon. Joseph Orogun, High Chief Lawrence Eduje, Sir Ayodele Othihiwa, Hon Chief James Obeuwou, Mr. Obuke Ogbodu, Prince Abugo Akpotareghe, Barr. Mike Edegware, Chief Kingsley Obeidhoko, Hon Chief Evans Ogba, Mrs. Mary Erijo, Chief Prosper Edo, Chief Brooklyn Essi.
Also present were Prince Sam Ogrih, Hon. Pius Emamowho, Pst. Mike Akpobire, Hon. Philo Apena, Mr. Fred Edore, Chief Joel Urhobo, Hon. Arova Othuke, Joseph Onos Ejabulor, Mr. Fred Udueme, Chief Patrick Egbuwoku, Chief Goodnews Obiodeh, Obi Eneruvie, Mr. Alfred Igule, Louis Agbidi, Kelly Aruno Owajutome, Afor Ogbolor and Chief Egbaoghene Ugolo among others.
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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)- From Michael EKOKORUWE:
Chief Paul Oletu Eriri, a former University don was last Friday installed the 15th Odio-Ologbo of Emede Kingdom in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Performing the inauguration at his Uruovo residence in Emede, Chief Efe Calaber, the Orhioba-Edio of Emede kingdom stated that the installation was in fulfillment of the age long tradition guiding the Edio Council in Emede. He stated that the new Odio-Ologbo met all the requirements prior to the installation and that it is his duty now to preside over all meetings of the Edio and other related activities to be handled by the council.
Speaking to reporters after his installation, Chief Eriri, a former United Nations Consultant stated that his emergence is the accomplishment of destiny because, right from when he was a young boy, his late father had not only named him ‘Oletu’, meaning leader or traditional head, but had also enlisted him into the “Ukoro” which is like being registered in the league of the Edio institution.
Chief Eriri stated that as a former lecturer at the University of Lagos, a trained Economist and widely travelled technocrat, he will bring his wealth of experience to bear in the discharge of his duty as Odio-Ologbo. He maintained that hitherto, he has been a champion of peace and development hence he was unanimously selected to head the Emede peace community that interfaced with the IDU and other stake holders in resolving the then lingering boundary dispute between Emede and Igbide last year.
The new Odio-Ologbo then enjoined the youths to stay away from cultism, Yahoo and other antisocial vices and rather strive to get quality education or acquire skills in any tangible vocation so as to earn legitimate income and be self reliant.
While commending Governor Okowa for the new University in Ozoro, Chief Eriri appealed to the State Governor to magnanimously add a teaching Hospital to the university so as to provide a tertiary health facility for the people of the area.
Similarly, Chief Eriri called on Governor Okowa to do everything possible to put the Emede craft center into optimum use to engage and empower the many unskilled youths in the area.
On power supply, Chief Eriri who also is a one time member of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) appealed to President Mohammadu Buhari to refix the electricity matrix of the country to ensure constant power supply particularly in the Niger Delta to ensure that the very energetic and enterprising youths in the region are progressively engaged to subsequently stem criminality.
Chief Eriri who was one time Managing Director of the defunct Public Finance Plc and Arewa Mortgage bank charged all Isoko People to exhibit love, tolerance and extend hand of fellowship to each other and amongst the different clans so as to upscale the development drive across the critical sectors of education, health, trade and commerce.
While affirming that his duties as Odio-Ologbo do not conflict with that of the Ovie, Chief Eriri maintained that the Ovie of Emede is the gazette authority and traditional head of the Clan while he is a cultural compliment that should regularly interface with the palace to ensure peace and sustainable development of Emede.
The installation ceremony was witnessed by several dignitaries from and outside Emede and Isoko land including High Chief Iduh Amadhe, former IDU President General, Chief Okorovwile Ugwedho, the second Odio of Emede, Chief Ejoor Ighele, Chief Sympathy Odhe and a host of others.
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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)- From Our CORRESPONDENT:
Borno State government has set up a committee to investigate the incident of the slitting of the throat of Jubril Sadi Mato, a student of Elkanemi College of Islamic Theology, Maiduguri.
Jubril, who is presently on admission at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), was said to have refused to go on an errand by a senior student that subsequently took him to a lonely place within the school where he allegedly did the damage and left him for death.
In a letter of appointment of the investigate Committee, members are given seven days to unravel the circumstances behind the ugly incident.
The letter which was signed by Borno State Commissioner for Education, Alhaji Mohammed Abatcha, gave the names of members to include representatives of the Department of State Security (DSS); the Nigeria Police; Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and Director Quality Assurance of Borno State Ministry of Education.
The letter addressed to Alhaji Saddiq Kadafur, the Borno Ministry of Education’s Ministerial Secretary which was appointed to act as Chairman of the Committee, read: “Sequel to the recent unfortunate incident involving Jubril Said Mato, a student of Elkanemi College of Islamic Theology, Maiduguri, the Ministry of Education therefore constitutes a 5-man Committee with you as the Chairman to investigate and arrive at the remove causes of the incident and arrive at the remote causes of the incident and suggest ways to curtail its re-occurrence in the future.”
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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)- From Our CORRESPONDENT:
The Nigerian Immigration Service has announced a major shake-up in its senior staff with the redeployment of six Assistant Comptrollers General and 26 Comptrollers.
The approval for the redeployment was communicated in a statement released to journalists on Saturday signed by on behalf of the Acting Comptroller General of Immigration Isah Idris by the spokesman of the Service, Amos Okpu.
The statement said the Acting Comptroller General of Immigration has approved a major senior staff shake-up involving six Assistant Comptrollers General and 26 Comptrollers.
The statement said In the posting order with reference number NIS/ADM/4422/V/832/16 and dated 21st January 2022, the senior officers were moved across commands and formations within the country as follows:
The Assistant Comptroller General and Zonal Coordinator in charge of Zone “F” Ibadan, ACG DE Amahian has been moved to the Planning Research and Statistics (PRS) at the Service Headquarters while ACG LE Oemi-Ockiya formerly in PRS, proceeds to Ibadan as the new Zonal Coordinator;
The Assistant Comptroller General in charge Investigation and Compliance, ACG AO Esekhagbe moves to the Migration Directorate while ACG UA Auna who before now was the Principal Staff Officer to the Ag. Comptroller General is deployed to the Investigation and Compliance Directorate;
The Assistant Comptroller General in charge of General Services at the Service Headquarters, ACG OG Osisanya fdc, proceeds to Lagos as the new Zonal Coordinator Zone ‘A’ while ACG EI Inok formerly the Zonal Coordinator of Zone ‘H’ Makurdi has been moved to the Service Headquarters to be in charge of Budget.
Some of the Comptrollers deployed include the following;
The current Lagos State Command Comptroller, AB Aliyu fsi has been moved to the Service Headquarters as the Principal Staff Officer to the Acting Comptroller General while Comptroller Bagiwa Mani formerly of Kaduna State Command will take over as the Lagos State Command Comptroller;
Comptroller K Nandap formerly in charge of Plateau State Command is now the Comptroller of Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Ikeja while Comptroller Chris Nomhwaange replaces her as the new Comptroller of Plateau State Command;
Also deployed are Comptrollers YU Galma formerly in Zone ‘B’ Kaduna and NI Eneregbu of HRM Service Headquarters, who have now been moved to head Seme Border Command and Mfun Border Command respectively.
Meanwhile, Comptroller ES Fagbamigbe moves to Idi-Iroko Border Command while Comptroller G Bello of Kano State Command moves to Katsina State to swap with Comptroller Muazu Abdulrazaq who now moves to Kano State Command.
The Acting Comptroller General, while noting that the posting is with immediate effect, enjoined the officers to deepen their contributions to the ongoing reform efforts in the Service at their various commands and formations.
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The Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu has restated his resolve towards ensuring unhindered and proactive representation of the People of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency in the National Assembly.
Elumelu said he will continue to exert himself in the service of the people, stressing that he count it a destiny and divine calling representing the Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
Presenting his score card in a town hall meeting with critical stakeholders of the Federal Constituency on Thursday January 20, 2022 at the banquet hall of the Orchid Hotels and event Center, Asaba, Elumelu who represents the Constituency in the House of Representatives, affirmed that his representation has brought about added value to the living standard of the people.
While commending the people for their unwavering support and unceasing confidence reposed in him which he noted have continued to be expressed in his successive elections as well as in his activities in the House of Representatives, the Minority Leader expressed his immense appreciation to the Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, describing him as an exceptional and visionary leader whose inspiration, support and untiring encouragement has been a solid pedestal for his successful attainment, activities and representation of his people in the House of Representatives.
He stressed the critical importance of the Town Hall Meeting and said it afforded him another opportunity to further report to the leaders and constituents as well as showcase some achievements, including his bills and motions, constituency projects, empowerment programmes and budget inputs for the wellbeing of the people, within the period of June 2019 to date.
The renowned Federal Lawmaker chronicled his Journey to the 9th National Assembly and affirmed that it has been turbulent and challenging, yet most inspiring, eventful and rewarding.
“Despite the daunting challenges, I have always been strengthened by the confidence reposed on me by my people across the four local government areas of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency as demonstrated in the overwhelming 84,615 votes they gave to me to dust the APC’s 11,086 votes. Such solidarity cannot be taken for granted and again I say, Thank you. Daalu Shiññé.
“These demonstrations of love by my constituents as well as the fatherly support of our dear Governor, His Execellency Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa have led to the success stories of my attainments and legislative activities in the House of Representatives as well as the numerous constituency projects and programmes,” the Minority leader stated.
While showcasing these achievements, Elumelu listed over Forty-Four Bills and Motions to his credit, that has direct bearing to the lives of the People.
“Under our constitution, one of the major roles of a legislator is the sponsoring of bill and motions for the benefit of his constituent and the nation in general. Within the period under review, I have become reputed as one of the most prolific sponsors of people-oriented bills and motions in the 9th Assembly.
“There is no week in session that I do not present a motion or bill that have direct impact on the wellbeing and development of our people in particular and Nigerians at large. This is apart from bills and motion co-sponsored with other members,” he said.
The bills and motions listed included; A bill for an Act to alter the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to provide for the alteration of first schedule section (3) part 1 State of the Federation, to provide for the creation of Anioma State and other related matters,
Background Information on a Bill for An Act to establish Federal University Of Technology, Asaba, Delta State for the purpose of providing quality technical education and other related matters,
Need to investigate Messrs Ninno Engineering Nig Ltd, Petrogas Specialist Services Ltd and Quintus investment Co. Nig Ltd for abandoning the constructions of Onicha-Uku/Idumuje-Unor road, Onicha-Uku/Idumu-Ogo roads and Onicha-Uku Civic Centre Projects,
Restoration of Aniocha South Constituency 1, and Motion in support for Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) amongst numerous others.
Elumelu confirmed that the concern of the Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives is to ensure the signing of the Electoral bill without restrain by the President, hence the reason for accepting to amend the bill to accommodate indirect primaries, even as he affirmed the participation of Aniocha North State Constituency 2 and Aniocha South State Constituency 1 in the 2023 General elections.
Highlighting his constituency projects, the Minority Leader showcased twenty-Nine significant projects, across the Federal Constituency, completed and ongoing, which he facilitated through his representation.
They include;
1. Provision of 820 stands of solar street lights distributed across communities in the four Local Government Areas in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency.
2. Construction of new staff quarters and clinic for the Department of State Services (DSS) Asaba
3. Renovation of DSS Office and Premises in Issele Uku
4. Constructions of Bishop Dibie Road in Agbor
5. Construction of the Onicha-uku-Idumuje-Unor Road
6. Construction of Ogboli Road Ibusa Drainage project
7. FMC Annex Onicha Uku road
8. Rehabilitation of Government Hospital, Onicha Olona,
9. Construction of Vocational Centre in Oshimili South Local Government Council premises
10. Construction of Civic Center, Ibusa.
11. Construction of ICT Center, Ogwashi Uku
12. Construction of Civic Centre, Ogwashi Uku
13. Construction of Town Hall, Ewulu
14. Construction of Town Hall, Ejeme
15. Construction of Civic Centre, Ubulu Uku
16. Construction of Vocational Centre, Ubulu Unor
17. Construction of Town Hall, Obior
18. Construction of Town Hall, Ubulu Okiti
19. Construction of ICT Center, Akukwu Igbo
20. Construction of ICT Center, Obomkpa
21. Construction of Town Hall, Ugbodu.
22. Construction of Civic Center Obomkpa
23. The palaces at Obomkpa and Idumuje Unor
24. Town hall, Ezi
25. Town Hall, Idumuje Ugboko
26. Town Hall, Nsukwa
27. Town Hall, Ukwunzu
28. Civic Center, Issele-Mkpitime
29. On-going renovation work on Police B Division, Asaba
The Minority Leader, who painstakingly explained in great details his stewardship to political leaders and stakeholders in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, also highlighted what he has done in the area of strategic empowerment of the people of the area, saying that he has strived and executed several empowerment programmes for hundreds of beneficiaries across the Federal Constituency that included;
1. Employment of over 150 Personal Assistants (PAs) on youth and women matters
2. Distribution of 107 tricycles, 148 motorcycle, 111 electricity generating sets, 90 deep freezers to worth over worth over N300 million to 456 beneficiaries drawn from various wards across the four local government areas in the Federal constituency.
3. Facilitation of job placements for over 50 beneficiaries in major Federal Government Ministries, Agencies and Departments,
4. Facilitated CBN Special loan for 346 beneficiaries,
5. Facilitated Npower program for 251 persons,
6. Facilitated Conditional Cash transfer scheme for 337 persons,
7. Facilitated a Federal Ministry of Water Resources empowerment programme for 79 beneficiaries,
8. Facilitated Household feeding programme for 335 beneficiaries
9. Facilitated a Ministry of Humanitarian and Poverty alleviation scheme for 30 beneficiaries,
10. Sponsored a two-day capacity training programme for 200 youths and women in cassava and rice production, after which starter packs were given to them at the end of the training,
11. Sponsored a four-day capacity training programme in Abuja, for our newly elected and inaugurated Chairmen and their Vice, alongside the newly elected 80 councilors in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency.
12. Rehabilitated flood victims in Oko
13. Provision of Covid 19 Palliatives including 600 bags of rice, 750 bags of beans, 500 bags of Garri 600 bags of onions, 500 cartons of tin tomatoes, as well as 500 cartons of groundnut oil worth over N45 million distributed across the 4 LGAs.
Elumelu revealed that 2021 empowerment programme for the people of the Federal Constituency is being packaged where over 650 million Naira will be expended, assuring that in a couple of weeks it will be ready and once a convenient date is secured with the State Governor, it will be announced.
The highly loved and regarded Federal Lawmaker, also at the Town hall meeting disclosed and showcased his efforts in securing budgetary provisions for development and empowerment projects for the benefit of the people as well as zonal interventionist efforts for 2022, 2021 and 2020 to include the following:
2022 Budget Inputs:
1. Construction and equipping of 10 Town Halls in Aniocha-Oshimili Federal Constituency
2. Supply of hilux for Civil Defence, Police, Vigilantes and DSS in Aniocha-Oshimili Federal Constituency
3. Supply of tricycles in Aniocha-Oshimili Federal Constituency-
4. Supply of motorcycles, fridges and generating sets in Aniocha-Oshimili Federal Constituency
5. Training for farmers in Aniocha-Oshimili Federal Constituency –
6. Renovation of Court of Appeal, Asaba Division.
7. Provision of staff bus and vehicles Court of Appeal, Asaba Division.
8. Training of Justices of The Court of Appeal, Asaba Division-
9. Completion of Community Civic Center/ Hall in Igbodo Ika North East Local Govt Area Delta State
10. Provision of Solar Powered Boreholes in Idumu Idogo and Idumu Obi Quarters Akumazi Umuocha Ika North East Delta
11. Provision of Solar Powered Borehole in Oza Nogogo Ika South Local Government Area of Delta.
12. Perimeter fencing, 50kva gen set, purchase of computers, land survey and building of admin block. Biodec Ubulu-Uku
13. Construction of Ogwuashi Uku Resort Centre for Farmers
14. Training of farmers in Aniocha-Oshimili
15. Completion of Onicha-Uku/Idumuje Unor Farm Road
16. Idumu Ogo/Onicha Uku Farm Roads
17. Otulu And Isele Azagba Town Halls
18. Provision of Electricity to Nsukwa, Ewulu, Isheagu, Olloh, Olodo, Abah Unor, Adonte, Umute, Ukwu Oba, St. Pius Grammar School, Onicha Ugbo
19. Training of Youths in Ebu
20. Training of Youths in Onicha Olona
21. Erosion Control of NYSC Camp Road, Isele-Uku
22. Construction of Civic Center at Ibarapa East/Ido Fed Constituency.
23. Construction and Equipping of Ubulu-Uku Town Hall
24. Supply of Armored Pf-Ekun for Delta Command (DSS), Supply of Utility Vehicles and Renovation/Rehabilitation of Aniocha South, Oshimili South and Oshimili North DSS LGA Office
25. Construction of Skill Acquisition Centre and Youth Empowerment at Rumuodara Community, Obio/Akpor LGA
26. Construction and equipping of Town Hall Otuo Community Iyeu Quarters, Owan East Local Government Edo State
27. Capacity Building on Basic ICT Development Programs for Youths and Women in Amaimo Ikeduru LGA in Imo State
28. Construction of Solar Powered Borehole in Ethiope East and Ethiope West LGA
29. Construction of Mgbudunkwu Road (1km) Portharcourt Rivers State-
30. Youth And Women Empowerment in Gamawa Federal Constituency of Bauchi State
31. Provision of Empowerment Items for Women and Youths in Isiala Ngwa North/South Federal Constituency of Abia State.
Zonal Intervention Projects:
1. Construction And Equipping of Asaba Massacre Monument for Farmers
2. Construction And Equipping of Three (3) ICT Centres for Agriculture in Aniocha-Oshimili Federal Constituency
3. Construction and Supply of Passenger Boats in Waterline Area in Aniocha-Oshimili Federal Constituency
4. Construction And Equipping of Landing Bay at Oko Ogbele, Oko Anala, Asaba and Odifu in Aniocha-Oshimili Federal Constituency
2021 Budget Input:
1. Supply of fridges to some selected woman in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State
2. Supply of tricycles to some youths in Aniocha/Oshimil Constituency, Delta State
3. Supply of generators to some youths and women in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State
4. Solar streets light in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State
5. Supply of face masks and sanitizers in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State
6. Skills acquisition in Oko Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State
7. Construction of hybrid all-in-one solar lights in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State
8. Training of youths in farm products in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State
9. Training of youths in Onicha Olona
10. Training of women for farming in Ebu
11. Construction of 2 duplex at Onicha Olona And Obamkpa
12. Renovation and land scaping of DSS Office, Delta State
13. Supply of tricycles and motocycles in Ukwa East/West Federal Constituency, Abia State
14. Provision and installation of solar lights at Kontagora, Wushimishi, Mariga And Mashegu Federal Constituency, Niger State
15. Construction of Ikuemola Secretariat Road, Igbokoda Ilaje
16. Supply of empowerment materials in Ife Federal Constituency, Osun State
17. Empowerment items for youths and women In Isiala Ngwa North LGA, Abia State
18. Tractors, harvesters and buckets for agric support to displace young farmers in various commuinities in Barkin Ladi/Riyom Federal Constituency, Plateau State
19. Construction of 2 nos motorized boreholes for Ibadan North-East/Ibadan South-East Federal Constituency Of Oyo State
20. Community hall in Erin-Ijesa, Erin-Oke, Apoti, Dagbaja-Eti Oni in Oriade Local Government, Osun State
21. Provision of educational support/grants to students of tetiary and non-tetiary institutions in Ezinihitte, Mbaise, Imo State
22. Ongoing electrification of Tyoutsa, Konshisha LGA
23. Construction of basketball pitch in Bizza, Madagali And Gulak In Madagali/Michika Federal Constituency, Adamawa State
24. Empowerment programme for traders and artisans in Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore and Ejigbo Federal Constituency Of Osun State
25. Installation of motorised borehole In Ezira And Nanka, Orumba North/South Federal Constuency
26. Equipping and completion at FMC Asaba Annex Onicha-Uku, Delta State
27. Rehibilitation of police station in Aniocha/Oshimili, Delta State
28. Construction of ten town hall building projects in various location in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State
29. Rehabilitation of Asaba High Court destroyed by EndSars
30. Solar street lights in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State
2020 budget input:
1. Light up community (all-in-one) solar street light with lithiumuin battery 6000 lumens with PIR at Aniocha South South, Federal Constituency, Delta State
2. Light up community (all-in-one) solar street light with lithiumion battery 6000 lumens with PIR at Oshimili North, Federal Constituency, Delta State
3. Light up community (all-in-one) solar street light with lithiumion battery 6000 lumens with PIR at Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili South, Oshimili North Federal Constituency, Delta State
4. Provision of solar streetlights with specification of 60w high efficiency monor panel life PO4 battery JRB solar Europe standard in selected locations in Mariga, Niger State.
5. Strategic employment for women and youths: training on agricultural produce for Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili South, Oshimili North Federal Constituency, Delta State.
6. Strategic employment for women: supply of deep freezers to women At Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili Men, Oshimili North, Federal Constituency, Delta State.
7. Empowerment/skill acquisition for women and youths in Wushishi, Niger State.
8. Provision of solar streetlights with specification of 60w high efficiency monor panel life P04 battery JRB solar Europe standard in selected locations in Bida, Niger State.
9. Light up community (all-in-one) solar street light with lithiumion battery 6000 lumens with PIR at Aniocha North, Federal Constituency, Delta State
10. Construction of Town Halls in 6 communities Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili South, Oshimili North Fedral Constituency, Delta State.
11. Supply of tricycle (keke) to Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili South, Oshimili North Federal Constituency, Delta State
12. Supply of generators to Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili South, Oshimili North Federal Constituency, Delta State.
13. Construction of ICT training centre with 500 seating capacity to Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili South, Oshimili North Federal Constituency, Delta State.
14. Supply of operational utility vehicle to Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili South, Oshimili North Federal Constituency, Delta State.
15. Supply of operational utility vehicle to Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili South, Oshimili North Federal Constituency, Delta State.
16. Light up community (all-in-one) solar street with lithiumion battery 3000/5000 lumens with PIR Kontagora, Wushishi, Mariga, Mashegu Federal Constituency, Niger State
17. Supply of motorcycle to Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Oshimili South, Oshimili North Federal Constituency, Delta State.
18. Supply and installation of solar powered street light at Ezi Town Aniocha North LGA, Delta State
19. Provision of fish cages at the Ogwashi-Uku Multi Purpose Dam, Delta State
20. Issele-uku erosion control Aniocha LGA Delta State
21. Illah-Ebu Irregation Project
22. Provision of water for Idumuje-Ugboko, Aniocha North LGA Delta State
23. Equipping of storey block of 3 theatre suites (theatre lights, anaesthetic machines and ventilators)
24. Construction of a 2 storey maternity complex Ezi Town Aniocha North LGA
25. Renovation and landscaping of DSS Office Delta State
26. Strategic empowerment and poverty alleviation for women and youths: supply of tricycles and motorcycles at Mikang, Qua’an-Pan, Shendam Federal Constituecy, Plateau State
27. Construction of drainage of Housing Mgbundukwu Road, mile 2, Diobu, Port Harcourt
28. Construction of town hall in Alera Village Ifelodun Local Govt Area, Kwara State
29. Provision of solar street lights and solar mini grids in Esan West, Esan Central Federal Constituency Edo State
Zonal Intervention Projects:
30. Construction equipping provision of electricity at FMC Asaba Annex Onicha-Uku, Delta State
31. Construction and equipping of 4 selected civic centres at Aniocha/Oshmili Federal Constituency, Delta State
32. Construction of 3 town hall building projects in various location in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State.
33. Supply of motorcycles and tricycles at Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, Delta State
34. Construction and quipping of vocational training centers at Asaba.
Elumelu revealed that among items in the budget that has been approved by the President included the construction of Ebu-Illah road, construction of Asaba Massacre Museum to be constructed by Julius Beggar, construction and Supply of Passenger Boats and the Construction and Equipping of Oko leading bay with a capacity for over 40 persons with a total cost of Three Point Six Billion Naira (N3.6 billion)
He said that approval has also been given for the continuous training and empowering of Farmers in the Federal Constituency, noting that the Focus is on Delta after Oil, even as he affirmed that Onich-Uku-Idumuje-Uno road completion with internal roads has also been approved with over Two Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N250,00 million) appropriated.
“We have indeed come a long way. Despite the successes recorded in the period under review, there is no resting on the oars. I have already mapped out strategies for accelerated implementation of project in the 2022 budgetary inputs as well as series of empowerment programmes which will be announced in due course. With the continued support of all of us, the future is even brighter,” Elumelu assured.
The Town Hall meeting which was organized by the Delta North Senatorial district of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, was presided over by the Senatorial Chairman of the Party, Chief Moses Iduh and was attended by leaders and critical stakeholders of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency that included, Chief Nkem Okwuofu, Chief Edwin Uzoh, Chief Chris Agbabu, Chief Isaac Awuzia, Dcn. Chuks Nwaebuni, Chief Mrs Giwa-Amu, Rt. Hon. Pascal Adigwe, Rt. Hon. Peter Onwusoanye, Hon. Pat Ajudua, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, Hon. Autine Chikezie, Hon. Shadrack Rapu, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza and Chief Mrs kawulia Omoko amongst numerous leaders across the Federal Constituency.
Also at the meeting was the Chairmen of the four Local Governments within the Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency with their Vice and Leaders of the legislative arms, PDP Chairmen in the Four Local Government areas with their Youth and Women Leaders
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Reading through the piece “As Okowa plays God in deciding who becomes next governor”, By Ekene Ozuagbu, one often wonders whether some people who write stuff and post in the public space are either ignorant Christians who do not read the bible at all or outright heathens who are unaware of the fact that there’s a divine connection between God and leaders
Otherwise, sanctimonious folks like this Ekene Ozuagbu, who quickly jump into the public space to display avoidable lack of knowledge of the relationship between party politics and leadership, would display a bit of common sense and avoid embarrassment, by taking out a little time to research on the arguments they put forward, especially when they want to bring God into the matter, with reckless impunity.
To cut a long story short, the Movement for Stronger Delta wants to state categorically and with full authority and confidence, that the hullabaloo over Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s attempt to play God in the emergence of the next Governor of Delta State, is not only a mischievous joke taken too far, it is sadly a dangerous misinterpretation of what the Governor said in relation to the matter.
For the avoidance of doubt and to set the records straight once again, here’s what Governor Okowa said in relation to 2023, during the Okowa family Thanksgiving service at the Government House Chapel, Asaba, for God’s blessings upon them and the State in 2021 and for greater divine attention on them and the State in 2022.
He said: “We are not stopping people from playing politics….This is a year of politics and as politicians, we cannot avoid it, pray with us, pray for us and pray for the State. Whatever positions we are contesting for, let us seek the face of God because if you genuinely pray, God will reveal His will to you.
“As a man, I will also try to avoid people pushing me to a direction that God is not pleased with because if God has made a choice and we go in the wrong direction, it will not augur well for the State. But one thing is sure, whoever will succeed me must be one who keeps the fire in this altar burning, and God must direct us on the choice of the person.
“I can never take the place of God in deciding who will succeed me; I will pray for God to direct us and not man, so that we don’t go in the wrong direction.”
From the above, there’s no where Governor Ifeanyi Okowa attributed to himself alone, the revelation of who will be the next Governor of the State. It is on record that one man has never determined, foisted, or imposed a Governor on Deltans, in the history of politics in Delta State and Governor Okowa has operated long enough in politics to understand the truism that power belongs to God and the voice of the people is the voice of God.
In fact, it almost happened in 2015, but the people, under God’s unwavering direction, made an alternative choice, which not only balanced the desire for equity to reign, but most importantly, established and ensured the sustainable peace and harmonious coexistence which we are enjoying in Delta State today.
1st Timothy 2:1-4 (NIV) gives us direct instruction on how to relate with our leaders. It reads: “Our leaders need God’s help. All of them. … And so we pray, for God to reveal areas where we have not represented His love to the world around us”. Governor Ifeanyi Okowa is only fulfilling divine injunction by asking Deltans to pray with him in revealing the right choice for Delta State in 2023.
As for the Delta Peoples Vanguard rally on Saturday, January 15, which was held at the Government Field, Agbor, “the very door mouth of the Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa”, it is important to remind the likes of Ekene Ozuagbu, that the DPV is a political pressure group made up of distinguished Deltans, just like several other political pressure groups in the State and they have the right and prerogative to organize their rally in any part of Delta State, including Owa Alero.
To further educate Ekene Ozuagbu and his ilk, the DPV has enjoyed a long, very robust, and hugely successful affinity with Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, especially since 2014, when Deltans from across the three Senatorial zones and 25 LGAs in the State came together to set up the pressure group for the actualization of Senator Ifeanyi Okowa’s quest to become Governor of Delta State.
So, there’s nothing surprising or unusual to bringing a rally to the door mouth of their principal and the Movement for Stronger Delta is quite at a loss to fathom how such an action by a pressure group acting independently on its own volition, can signal a death knell for Democracy, especially for the PDP. Infact we advise Ekene and his cronies to make haste and form their own pressure group and then proceed to hold a rally at the door mouth of their favoured Candidate. This will no doubt add colour and spice to the political process ahead of 2023.
And in response to those silly insinuations that Governor Okowa is dominating the politics in the PDP, a few choice quotes from the scholar, cerebral thinker, and authority in Leadership matters, John C. Maxwell, who has also been identified and acclaimed as the most popular leadership expert in the world today, will suffice.
A leader is one who knows the way, shows the way and goes all the way”
“Real leadership is being the person others will gladly and confidently follow.” 3.”When the leader lacks confidence, the followers lack commitment.”
“Great leaders always seem to embody two seemingly disparate qualities. They are both highly visionary and highly practical.” and
“If you can’t influence people, then they will not follow you. And if people won’t follow, you are not a leader. That’s the Law of Influence.”
These five quotes appropriately answers all the questions, addresses all the misinformation, and debunks all the innuendos and speculations which Ekene Ozuagbu, has so painstakingly, but with great futility, attempted to present as learned and informed commentary and analysis of a subject he obviously knows nothing about.
Again those who understand the nature and operations of political parties will agree that every responsible political party rallies around its leader who is highly visionary and highly practical, exudes unshakable confidence, and possesses the charismatic mien, acumen, and astute strategic brilliance to lead his party and influence mass followership, just like Governor Ifeanyi Okowa is doing in the PDP today, like previous leaders did in the past.
As a last line, it is quite imperative to remind Deltans that PDP is not the only political party in the State and the Governorship is constitutionally open to all Political Parties to field suitable and qualified candidates from any part of the State.
Of course, it must be said and unapologetically too, that PDP will win any and every election in the State any day, anytime, by virtue of the fact that it is the most peaceful, organized, united best prepared, and very much ready and primed in the pole position to do battle in every election season and cycle.
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa understands this perfectly and as the leader of the party, he knows that with prayers and the collective effort of its leaders, elders, stakeholders, and the entire membership, working together in robust and harmonious consensus with Deltans, the PDP as a united family, will once again produce and deliver the anointed choice which God has ordained and the people have endorsed, in 2023.
That is, without any doubts whatsoever, the SIMPLE Agenda.
Signed:
Dr. Festus Bomo Patani National Co-ordinator, MOVEMENT FOR STRONGER DELTA (MSD).
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ILOBA, STEPHEN ONYEKA is one of the pioneer beneficiaries of the Delta State Government’s Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP) in the 2015/2016 Cycle. He hails from Aniocha North Local Government Area and studied at the Institute of Management Technology, Enugu where he obtained an HND in Marketing.
After four years of fruitless search for a white-collar job, fate smiled at him through the State Government’s STEP. He was trained and established with starter packs which marked his journey into the world of entrepreneurship and fashion. Currently, he is the CEO of Stephen Africa, an employer and a job creation trainer.
Six years after, Illoba shares his experience of how he has expanded his business, branded his products, began to raise a family, bought a car, acquired a land and grown his enterprise from being just self-employed to training others and becoming an employer of others.
Hear him, “Everything has been good. I had prior knowledge of fashion before I enrolled in the programme. Since establishment, I have expanded from having 2 machines to having fourteen machines, including 4 industrial ones. The patronage is above average. I make both male and female wears as English shirts and trousers, suits, senator suits, native wears, bridals etc. I have trained and graduated over 35 persons out of which 5 were STEP trainees. I have 10 employees. Among his employees is his wife whom he met during his days of training.”
Having expanded his business to Aba in Abia State, 6 of his employees are stationed in Aba. According to him, he controls and manages his business by travelling to Aba every other week, that is, one week in Asaba and the next one in Aba. He hopes to have his major products dominate Africa markets in the next five years. His products are branded Stephen African with an embroidery of Nigerian flag. He is expanding so fast and has been able to organise an international event on fashion.
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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Sunny A. DAVID/AWKA:
Some correspondents of National Media Organisations in Anambra State were on Thursday barred from covering the inauguration of Prof. Charles Soludo transition committee.
The event which was held at Golden Tulip Hotel, Agulu in Anaocha Local Government Area was not attended by Governor Willie Obiano.
The Governor was expected to grace the occasion but was visibly absent, raising a suspicion of possible rift between Soludo and his political godfather.
When contacted, the Anambra State Commissioner For Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr. C-Don Adinuba responded that he and the Governor were not invited for the programme.
He disclosed that he was not a member of the committee, moreover he has serious businesses in his office.
“The Governor is not there and I am not there. I am not bothered by not being there .I have more serious things to do in the ministry,” Mr. Adinuba said.
Journalists who went to the venue of the event were denied entry into the hall even when they pleaded to be given the opportunity to get their news.
Among the media houses denied entry were Daily Trust, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, New Telegraph, The Guardian, Nigeria Pilot, Leadership, Daily Times among others.
A member of the Soludo Media Team bragged that they are not interested in coverage of National Media, saying “Soludo can govern without the media”.
According to the man, who did not carry a name tag, “Soludo has media influencers to cover his events as they did during the election.”
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An official ceremony to present and launch the 2021-2027 Joint Multiyear Programming Document (DCP) was held in Lomé on January 12, 2022 at the headquarters of the Ministry of Planning, Development and Cooperation.
Adopted on December 16 2021, the Joint Programming Document was developed in an inclusive approach with the European Union, Germany and France. It defines the framework for the interventions of the European partners in support of the efforts of the Government of the Togolese Republic for the next seven years.
Mr. Payadowa Boukpéssi, Minister of State, Minister of Territorial Administration, Decentralization and Development of Territories co-chaired this presentation ceremony alongside the Ambassador of the European Union to Togo, Mr. Joaquìn Tasso Vilallonga. Mrs. Sandra Ablamba Johnson, Minister, Secretary General of the Presidency of the Republic, Mr. Gilbert Bawara, Minister of Public Service, Mr. Sani Yaya, Minister of Economy and Finance, for the Government of the Togolese Republic, as well as Mrs. Jocelyne Caballero, Ambassador of France and Mr. Matthias Veltin, Ambassador of Germany, took part in this event.
The DCP is in synergy with the National Development Plan (NDP) and the Government Roadmap Togo 2020-2025. Through this strategic document, the European Union and its Member States are committed to strengthening their support to the Togolese Republic in three priority areas
Human development, particularly in terms of socio-economic inclusion and access to basic public services;
Sustainable agribusiness and natural resource management to contribute to job creation and the fight against climate change;
The consolidation of a peaceful and resilient society in Togo through the promotion of security, good governance and decentralization.
The adoption of this document is an important step in strengthening and concretizing cooperation between Togo and its European partners. The Joint Programming Document specifies the approach of the “Team Europe”, composed of the European Union, France and Germany, as well as their respective financial and development institutions, namely the European Investment Bank (EIB), the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW). The aim is for the European partners to identify synergies and pool their tools in order to increase efficiency in the framework of this joint programming. An approach welcomed during the visit to Togo, November 24, 2021, high-level officials of “Team Europe”.
The resulting EU actions will be financed by the new instrument entitled “Europe in the World”, which replaces the European Development Fund (EDF). The adoption of the Joint Programming Document 2021-2027 and the implementation of this new financial instrument coincide with the entry into force of the Post-Cotonou Agreement, which strengthens the partnership between Togo and the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP) on the one hand, and the European Union and its Member States on the other. As part of the first year of implementation of this document, “Team Europe” is committing more than millions 243 of euros, or nearly 160 billion CFA francs, for new projects in the three priority areas mentioned above.
Ambassador Joaquìn Tasso Vilallonga, Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) in Togo, welcomed the relevance of the axes contained in this Document, which will further strengthen the partnership between the EU and Togo: “The document we have today, after the high-level visit of the “Team Europe” in Lome only a few weeks ago, is the concrete materialization of this commitment of the European Union especially in the field of cooperation and European solidarity with Togo.
The Minister of State, Minister of Territorial Administration, Decentralization and Development of Territories thanked the European partners for their support in the development of this document, which is aligned with the priorities of the government.
I would like to reiterate the government’s sincere thanks to the European Commission, Germany and France in particular, for the quality of their cooperation and for their support in implementing development projects and programs for the well-being of the people. The Minister of State stressed on this occasion “the enlightened vision and leadership in the piloting of development actions” of the President of the Republic, H.E. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé. He concluded by inviting all actors involved in the implementation of this document to take the necessary steps for the rapid implementation of the projects.
*Source: AETOSWire
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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Editor’s DESK: Delta Government said it had approved an upward review of contract cost of Ayakoromo Bridge project from N6 billion to N10.5 billion.
The Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, told journalists in Asaba that the review was part of decisions reached at the first State Executive Council meeting in 2022, which was presided over by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on Thursday.
Aniagwu explained that the contract for the construction of the bridge which was awarded in 2013 had to be reviewed as a result of present economic realities in the country.
He said that the project was priority to the present administration in the state, adding that it was expected to be completed and inaugurated within the next 15 months.
“The Ayakoromo bridge also came up today and the Exco has approved an upward review of that contract which was awarded in 2013 at the initial cost of about N6 billion.
On the Independent Power Plant (IPP) in Oghara, Aniagwu said that the council gave approval for a programme that would enable the IPP come on stream by bringing in Independent Power Generating Companies under lease to own it.
“We have some turbines and equipment that they (the power generating companies) need to buy. We will bring them in and they will pay us some money from the beginning to some time and they will own the plant thereafter,” he said.
According to him, the state government took the measure because it does not want to engage in outright sale of the power facility where the state may be short-changed.
The commissioner further stated that Exco approved the upgrade of Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) to enable it to beam its signals across the state and to the entire South-South region.
To this end, he said, transmitters and other tools would be provided for the Asaba station and Ubulu-Uku sub-station to enhance the strength of the signal.
“The good one for me is that Exco approved the upgrade of Delta Broadcasting Service. So, in the next six months, we will, as much as possible, provide them with transmitters that would be able to cover the entire state,” Aniagwu stated.
On road infrastructure, he said that approval was given for the construction of Idheze internal roads in Isoko axis, rehabilitation of 5.6km Idere-Ase road in Isoko South, construction of Umuchime-Ogbele road, Ogume in Ndokwa West and construction of Ovie Whiskey Palace Road, Jesse, in Ethiope West.
While saying that the Okpe- Ekuku-Agbor road in Ika South was also approved for construction, the Commissioner disclosed that the Exco approved the rehabilitation and expansion of the Ugbolu – Asaba road as well as the Flood Control measures of Sakpoba Water Board, Oghara and the Ajagbodudu Market road.
“We also approved the rehabilitation of Ugbolu-Asaba road, to enable people easily access the film village coming to fruition soon. The road will also be expanded,” he added.
Aniagwu said that Exco also approved the repudiation of the Udu Harbour Market due to non-performance of the contractor, and that the contract would be re-awarded to a more competent company.
He disclosed that the council approved the appointment of Michael Imoh as the Ovie of Aviara in Isoko South, adding that Solomon Usoro Onyesom was endorsed as the Okpala-Uku of Ashaka Kingdom in Ndokwa East.
The Commissioner also announced that the government gave approval for the amendment of the declaration to the throne of Uvwie Kingdom regarding succession to the throne, even as he said that a 500-seater auditorium was approved for construction at the Delta State University, Abraka.
On his part, the Commissioner for Urban Renewal, Chief Arthur Akpovwowo, said approval was given for the transfer of the Department of Town Planning and Urban Development Board from Ministry of Lands to the Ministry of Urban Renewal.
Akpovwowo disclosed that approval had been given for the ministry to work at Ekuku-Agbor in Ika South, Ovu in Ethiope East and Akugbene in Bomadi Local Government Areas, and assured that the ministry would ensure that illegal activities in town planning and development were put to a halt.
He sued for the support of all in correcting the ills bedevilling town planning and development in the state.
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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)- From Our CORRESPONDENT:
The United States and Nigeria have signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that launches a Cultural Property Agreement between both nations.
U.S. Ambassador, Mary Beth Leonard and Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed signed the agreement on Thursday at a ceremony attended by the Minister for Foreign Affairs Geoffrey Onyeama and U.S. Embassy representatives.
In Nigeria, cultural property continues to be subject to the threat of pillage, destruction, and loss due to excavation, criminal activity, natural disasters, and subsistence digging. The agreement will facilitate continued cooperation with Nigerian law enforcement agencies and support efforts to identify, intercept, repatriate, and protect cultural property and related heritage.
The agreement will also promote the exchange of archaeological materials for scientific, cultural, and educational purposes with the aim of increasing public awareness for Nigerian cultural heritage.
A statement by the U.S. Embassy said: “This agreement will enhance our already strong cooperation to preserve and maintain Nigerian cultural landmarks and sites through the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP). Over the past decade, the United States has partnered with the Nigerian government and state institutions to fund projects totaling over a million dollars including the $125,000 AFCP grant awarded in November 2021 to digitally survey and document the Busanyin Shrine located within the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove.
“Another major investment consists of the $400,000 AFCP grant for the conservation of the late 14th-Century Sungbo’s Eredo monument, which will use three-dimensional laser scanning technology to generate a precise topographic map covering a thousand square kilometers of the area occupied by the monument.”
Cultural Property Agreements are administered worldwide by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs in partnership with other governments desiring enhanced cooperation in that field. These bilateral agreements support U.S. government efforts across different agencies and organizations to protect and preserve cultural heritage in host countries. This includes denying critical financing to organizations that engage in illicit trade of artifacts and other cultural objects of value. The U.S. has signed Cultural Property Agreements with several countries in Africa including Egypt, Libya, Mali, and Morocco.
“Today’s agreement is about learning from the past and about recording through it our partnership to preserve, restore, and protect Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage,” said Ambassador Leonard during her remarks at the ceremony.
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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)- From Our CORRESPONDENT:
A Federal High Court in Damaturu, Yobe State has rejected applications seeking for “stay of proceedings” filed by a former Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Abdu Bulama and four others in a N450 million fraud case.
Bulama was re-arraigned on November 8, 2021 alongside a former Commissioner for Integrated and Rural Development in Yobe State, Hon. Mohammed Kadai, Abba Gana Tata, Muhammad Mamu and Hassan Ibn Jaks on a seven count charge of criminal conspiracy and money laundering, following the judgment of the Appeal Court in Gombe State which upheld the argument of the EFCC that the Lower Court erred by discharging and acquitting the defendants following their ‘no case submission’ upon the closure of the prosecution’s case.
The ex-minister allegedly received the N450m from Diezani Alison- Madueke, a former Minister of Petroleum Resources, to influence the outcome of the 2015 Presidential election as the Coordinator of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s 2015 Re-election Campaign Committee in Yobe State. Kadai was Deputy Coordinator, while the other three defendants were members of the committee.
At the resumed sitting on Tuesday, the defendants through their lawyers, J.J. Usman and U.M. Isah informed the court that they have approached the Supreme Court to set aside the judgment of the appellate court which dismissed their no case submission and ordered a return to the Federal High Court in Yobe State for the continuation of trial.
They argued that it would not be proper for the lower court to proceed on the matter during the pendency of the appeal at the apex court.
Opposing the prayers of the defendants, prosecution counsel, Mukhtar Ali Ahmed told the court that the EFCC is not oblivious of the fact that there is an appeal before the Supreme Court and all processes of the appeal have been received by the prosecution.
However, he said the EFCC is not aware of any order directing the court and the judge to stay proceedings in the case.
Muktar argued that: “Appeal regarding this case at the Supreme Court is obviously different from the matter before this court as it has no correlation.”
Justice Fadima Aminu, in her ruling, said there is no order before the court directing a stay of proceedings and there is no correlation between the appeal before the Supreme Court and the matter before her.
Consequently, she refused the applications of the defendants and ordered for accelerated hearing of the case.
The prosecution then called its first witness, Mohammed Jajere. Led in evidence by the prosecution counsel, Mukhtar Ali Ahmed, PW1, Jajere, a Consultant Engineer told the court how he received the sum of N23, 210, 000.00 from the fourth defendant, Muhammad Mamu, on the 21st of February, 2015, the eve of the 2015 Presidential election day, in order to influence the outcome of the election in Fune local government area of Yobe State.
“I know all the defendants because we belong to the same political party, PDP. At that time, towards the 2015 Presidential election, I was a member of the caretaker committee of the PDP in Yobe State.
“On the eve of the election, I was called on phone by my party leader, Dr. Muhammad Mamu to come and pick up the money meant for my local government which I did in cash and I took the money to Damagun, headquarters of the PDP in Fune local government area where I handed over the money to a 19-member committee which was set up by the local government for the disbursement.
“The 19 member committee disbursed the funds to the 13 wards of the local government and each ward had a minimum of 5-member committee who were vested with the responsibilities of collecting such funds and took the monies to their various wards for disbursement to the 165 polling units across the local government on Election Day.
“Election was conducted the next day and our party lost the election and we all went back home.”
He further testified that, in 2016, he received an invitation from the Maiduguri Command of the EFCC to come and explain his involvement regarding the money he received from the fourth defendant.
“I got a call from the EFCC in the year 2016 to come explain the money I received from my leader, Dr.Muhammad Mamu which I obliged”, PW1 said.
While being cross examined, PW1 told the court that as at the time he received the money in cash, there was no functional bank in Fune local government area due to the insurgency.
He further told the court that he received the money based on the political party’s instructions and the money was not in any way payment for goods or services rendered to the fourth defendant.
He stated that without the money he received, “our party in the local government would not have been able to participate in the election”.
Justice Fadima, having heard the testimonies of the PW1, discharged the witness and adjourned to January 19, 2022 for continuation of trial. 19 January, 2022.
At the resumed hearing on Wednesday, January 19, 2022 the EFCC presented two more witnesses.
Prosecution counsel, Mukhtar Ali Ahmed led in evidence the PW2, Adam Ishaya. a politician and farmer, who revealed to the court how he received the sum of N13, 150, 000.00 (Thirteen Million, One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) from the third defendant, Abba Gana Tata, day to the 2015 Presidential election.
The witness said after he collected the money, he took it to a 12-member committee in Fika local government area of Yobe State for disbursement on the day of the election.
While being cross examined, PW2 told the court that there was no functional bank in Fika local government area as at the time he received the money, adding that the committee could not have disbursed the money to over a thousand people on election day via bank transfer.
He further told the court that part of the money he received was meant for logistics for agents at all polling units in Fika local government area.
The third prosecution witness, Dauda Umar in his testimony, revealed how the first defendant made a cash withdrawal of N450million from Fidelity Bank, Damaturu branch and disbursed the said sum to influence the outcome of the 2015 Presidential election.
PW3 who is an operative of the EFCC, told the court that on 13th of April, 2016, the Maiduguri Command received an ‘intelligence report’ from the Headquarters in Abuja and it was assigned for further investigation.
Dauda said the intelligence report stated that the Commission was investigating a case of money laundering against Diezani Alison-Madueke, a former Minister of Petroleum Resources and investigation revealed that Diezani warehoused $115, 010, 000.00 (One Hundred and Fifteen Million, Ten Thousand US Dollars) in Fidelity Bank across the country and the money was to be used for 2015 Presidential election.
PW3 told the court that investigation revealed that the monies were disbursed to politicians, security agencies and INEC officials.
He further testified that during investigation, one Rabiu Bello who was a cash officer with Fidelity Bank, Damaturu branch was invited to the Maiduguri Command of the EFCC for interview and he told the investigating team that he was authorized by his operational manager to release the sum N450million to the first and second defendants; Abdu Bulama and Mohammed Kadai prior to the 2015 Presidential election.
PW3 said: “N83.1million was given to the third defendant, Abba Gana Tata from which N13.1million was given to PW2. “The fourth defendant, Muhammad Mamu received the sum of N73.5million and he gave the PW1, Engr. Mohammed Jajere N23million and N70.4million was given to the fifth defendant, Hassan Ibn Jaks and one Mero Ashi got the sum of N11.9million for disbursement on the 2015 Presidential Election Day.
“Investigation revealed that the balance was shared amongst security agencies and INEC officials in Yobe State”. PW3 told the court that all the defendants were invited to the Maiduguri Command of the EFCC at different times starting with the first to the fifth defendants and N14.2million was recovered in the course of investigation.
“All the defendants were invited at different times and they were interviewed and they all made voluntary confessional statements, admitting they received the said monies as revealed by investigations”, PW3 said.
Prosecution counsel, Ahmed sought to tender the statements of the defendants as evidence before the court but defence counsel objected to the admissibility of the statements on the grounds that they were not made voluntarily.
They prayed the court to order a “trial -within-trial” to determine the voluntariness of statements made by the defendants at the Maiduguri Command of the EFCC.
Justice Aminu, thereafter ordered for a trial-within-trial and adjourned the matter to January 20, February 28 and March 1, 2022 for continuation trial.
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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)- From Our CORRESPONDENT:
The French Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Emmanuelle Bultmann said her country plans to partner with Borno State on development of agriculture, education, and the resettlement of IDPs.
Amb. Bultmann announced this on Wednesday when she paid a courtesy visit to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum at the Borno State Liaison office in Abuja.
The Ambassador noted that her country will collaborate with the Government of Borno on Agriculture to boost the means of the livelihoods, particularly for the returning IDPs.
She assured the Governor that the French Government will support Borno’s resettlement plan, stressing living in IDP camps does not give a good life to the displaced persons.
Responding, Governor Zulum expressed appreciation to the Ambassador for all the efforts they have been putting to bring lasting peace in Borno.
On the closure of IDP camps, Zulum said it was in response to the people’s yearning to return to their ancestral homes and pick up the pieces of their lives.
Zulum however pointed out that while the State recognizes and appreciates the works of NGOs and other partners in Borno, the State should take a leading role in determining affairs.
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It was as though, everyone was waiting for him. As soon as Asiwaju Bola Tinubu made his intentions known, every suspected but hidden aspirant in his party and beyond, began to throw their hats into the ring.
So also are his avowed detractors and traducers, who suddenly went back to the dustbin of history, to fetch out what they thought they could effectively weaponise and use against the Jagaban’s age long ambition. But this is typical of politics, politicking and politicians everywhere except that ours is more tilted towards primordial prejudices and personal vendetta than the love for Country.
It is quite interesting and intriguing how the intention of one man to exercise his constitutional rights, is shaking the Nigerian political landscape and the tables of political watchers, pundits and analysts so vigorously. Such is the enormous clout, the raging cloud and emotional momentum that follows Tinubu’s footsteps in recent time.
Those who are in support of his candidature are brandishing his enormous wealth of experience, his political sagacity and perspicacious mind-set coupled with a political structure with a national outlook, as a veritable tool and advantage to turn things around for a nation yawning for help like Nigeria.
They are quick to dismiss a possible interplay of political forces within the APC caucuses, that may likely favour another candidate rather than Bola Tinubu. It is on record that just recently, President Buhari mused about the fact that he has a preferred candidate who he wouldn’t like to reveal yet. Could that candidate be Tinubu? Where then is Tinubu’s chance if truly he is not Buhari’s preferred candidate ?
Can he race against a preferred candidate of the President and come out unscathed from the party primaries? Could Vice President Yemi Osinbajo’s rumoured candidacy be weaponised by a centripetal force within the party to spite and divide the Jagaban’s camp when push comes to shove? Can Osinbajo gather enough courage to go against his political Godfather? These are intricate angles of the conversation, begging for answers.
It is against this backdrop that others felt he shouldn’t run for the exalted office but rather remain as the master strategist, Godfather and Kingmaker that he has always been. Issues, too, have been raised about his health and the source of his perceived humongous wealth which gave him such a financial war-chest that can be unmatched in a contest such as the Nigerian presidential race.
All said and done, Tinubu has become more like an albatross on the neck of the powers that be within the APC. To ignore this fact is to play the ostrich. Therefore, to deny him of his age long ambition without a necessary cushioning, horsetrading and soft landings could be detrimental and constitute an existential threat to a highly factionalised party like the APC.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu is truly in the eye of the storm; he’s in the public laboratory for either isolation, acculturation or diagnosis. But the results still lies in the hands and hearts of the people who loves him and appreciate the fact that he has paid his dues and therefore, should be given the chance to take a shot.
Austen AKHAGBEME is a Columnist with Blank NEWS Online
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