–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

THE Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives has raised alarm on the alleged looting of over N165 billion operating surplus as well as other diverted funds running into billions of naira, by top officials of the Nigerian Port Authority (NPA).

The lawmakers described as “another sad commentary on the brimming corruption in the APC administration” the mindless looting of such stupendous resources at a time the country was writhing in the throes of worsening insecurity.

It, therefore asked the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately “take in the indicted Managing Director, Hadiza Bala Usman, and commence a system-wide investigation with a view to prosecuting her, if found wanting”.

The Caucus in a statement signed by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu on Monday, insisted that such huge economic crime against the nation should not be left to an administrative panel of enquiry, but committed to an anti-graft agency for independent investigation.

The lawmakers expressed concerns that by committing the alleged NPA looting to an administrative panel, political manipulations and partisan influences had taken precedence over what should have been a system-wide investigation into a monumental fraud.

“Our Caucus holds that the mere suspension of the indicted Managing Director of the NPA, Hadiza Bala Usman, and the resort to an administrative panel of enquiry even after the report by the Supervising Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, exposed an unremitted and possibly diverted operating surplus of N165 billion, amounts romancing and perfuming corruption by the APC-led Federal Government.

“The Minority Caucus also believes that the recourse to an administrative instead of a full-scale criminal investigation can nly serve as decoy to shield some other APC government officials involved in the looting spree at NPA and other affiliated agencies in the transport sector.

“This is because, apart from the unremitted N165 billion cited by the Minister, other documents and reports from the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation had also uncovered several sleaze, including unremitted deduction to Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) amounting to N3,667,750,470. $148,845,745.04, Euro 4,891,449.50 and £252,682.14.

“This is in addition to audit query of N15.18 billion allegedly stolen through inflated Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects/programmes under the watch of the suspended NPA Managing Director.

“As representatives of the suffering people of Nigeria, our Caucus is particularly very worried that such monumental looting are going on at a time terrorists, bandits, unknown gunmen, and criminal militias are reigning supreme across the length and breath of the country and life has consequently become the cheapest article in the country.

“We imagine that such resources if channelled to the security sector and well managed would have made a world of difference in addressing the problem of insecurity in the country”, the lawmakers stated.

It added that the APC administration had crippled the national economy and brought untold hardship and suffering to Nigerians and therefore demanded more drastic step by anti-graft agencies to recover the stolen funds as well as prosecute all involved in the looting spree.

“It is a shame that a party that came to power with the promise of fight corruption, build the economy, and fight insecurity has ended up destroying whatever gains that were made before it came to power”, the Caucus concluded.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

BARELY 24 hours after prominent leaders from Delta North Senatorial District, spoke out on the prospects of 2023 gubernatorial ambition of former Minister of Education, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, Ughievwen youths, men and women have endorsed him to run for the exalted seat come 2023.

The youths under the platform of Gbagi Grassroot Movement, under the leadership of Comrade Oke Emuesiri Ogah, on Sunday May 9th 2021, at his Oginibo residence, unanimously asked him to contest as governor following his philanthropic gestures towards them.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Comrade Ogah said: “This time around, especially those of us from Otu-Jeremi axis said we are going to support Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi. Recently you gave out tricycles to youths. You are one of Urhobo illustrious sons that has been giving us support.

“You are not that kind of politician that we get there and begin to gather wealth for yourself. We believe that when you are there and we give you the full support, you are going to industrialize Delta State and that will lead to the creation of jobs for the youths and we are ready to work with you to the end”.

Speaking in an interview, the youth leader said: “I must let you know that Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, has been of good help to PDP since 1999, till date. He is one of the politicians that we have seen from Urhobo land that has not decamped to any other party since the onset.

“Gbagi, is someone of concern, Gbagi has the interest of Deltans at heart and he has been giving a lot of scholarships to the youths of Ughelli south especially Ughievwen kingdom. If the party gives him the ticket he will do more than he has done when he was outside government.

“I call on the youths, men, women, traditional rulers to queue behind Gbagi solidly”, Ogah, said.

It would be recalled that on Saturday May 8th 2021, the monarch to Akwukwu Igbo, Dr. Obi David Azuka, in Oshimili North local government area of the state, one of the respected leaders and renowned environmentalist, Dr. Newton Jibunoh, said Deltans would be fortunate to have the  entrepreneur as governor in 2023, declaring that he would industrialize the state. 

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

FRONTLINE Delta guber aspirant in the 2023 governorship election, Olorogun Barrister Kenneth Gbagi, has called on the federal government to declare a state of emergency on the security system in Nigeria.

Gbagi told journalists under the aegis of Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) that the Nigerian security architecture has collapsed, hence there is need for an emergency declaration to salvage the system.

Gbagi who is gunning for the state governorship in 2023 and has been gathering support across board, said there is deception between the government and stakeholders in the nation’s security apparatus.

He told the online publishers who converged in his country home, Oginibo, in Ughelli South local government area of the state, on Sunday that there must be an agreement and the political will on the part of stakeholders to end the insecurity that is fast taking over the nation “so that we all can go back to our usual way of life.”

He said: “Nigeria as it is today is a misnomer. There is need for a state of emergency on security in Nigeria. Security personnel are supposed to take orders from state governors. But where we are now is a situation where they all take instructions from a central command. That means the governors cannot be held responsible for the wrongs with regards to security in their states.”

Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, a criminologist and a business mogul, insisted that the situation in Nigeria at the moment demands the National Assembly to urgently amend the constitution of the country with regards to organisation of the nation’s security apparatus if the nation will make inroads into solving the problem of insecurity in Nigeria.

Olorogun Gbagi said: “The kind of government we practice before now had the interest of the nation at heart but where the interest of the nation is not what we are pursuing, the nation will die. We must go back to the drawing board. We must go back to discuss where we are and how we want to collectively get out of this mess.”

He added: “The situation has rapidly grown out of hand. Why are we paying salaries to security agents when the main purpose of their engagement has been outlived. The purpose of paying their salaries has failed and this calls for emergency.

“Without security, there will be no investment. And once there is no investment, hunger will take over the land. Robbery, stealing, kidnapping will increase. Look, a lot of people who are criminals today do not plan to become criminals. Circumstances beyond their control forced them into criminality.

“It will continue and get worse. The country our fathers left behind is not the country we are today. There is need need for a state of emergency in Nigeria security system. Nigeria will not be a nation if we do not change the narratives.”

On the issue of grazing which is leading to clashes between farmers and Fulani herdsmen, Gbagi said cattle rearing is a private business, noting that the Nigeria presidency has nothing to do with grazing

He noted: “How does my personal business concern government? How I sell it, how it gets from one place to another is not the business of government. That is their chosen line of business. Grazing must be treated as such.

“Cow is not the business of government, unless government wants to tell us that they have acquired all the cows in Nigeria. Some of these things have come to be because of the way we have handled them.”

Although he blamed the security agencies for not carrying out their responsibility to Nigerians, he, however, agreed thst the security personnel are not well remunerated so as to encourage them to put in their best. He said the policeman that has not eaten well will run when a daredevil robber with a more sophisticated gun advances towards him.

Hence, he said there is low morale among the security personnel. He, however, insisted that over 80 percent of the guns used by the hoodlums belong to Nigerians. He is of the belief that the guns were forcefully taken from Nigerians security agencies.

Gbagi, who commended Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state for his proactive measures against insecurity in the state and his infrastructural development, said “the way we have toiled with a lot of things in Nigeria and we are still surviving, we should attempt such with security.

He said: “Those mercenaries coming in have their own targets, interest, and objectives and unless we deal with it headlong it will be unfortunate for Nigeria. As it is now, we don’t know who to hold responsible, all the security apparatus and the stakeholders have failed.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

• World economy facing US$3.8 trillion economic hit, with half absorbed by wealthiest countries
• New report ‘21 Priorities for Governments in 2021’ Identifies Five Areas in Post-pandemic Recovery

A seminal report launched by the World Government Summit Organization (WGS) which highlights 21 critical priorities within five focus areas offers a source of direction for governments as they tackle post-COVID-19 recovery.

Wealthier economies will shoulder almost half the cost of the COVID-19 crisis, which could reach up to US$3.8 trillion in 2021, the report finds. That, even if developed economies can vaccinate their entire populace and developing economies can reach a 50 percent vaccination rate.

The report says mental health wellness, climate change and women’s empowerment are central concerns that will exacerbate if governments do not rebuild in a holistic, proactive manner.

His Excellency Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the World Government Summit Organization, said: “2020 will be remembered by history as the year of great disruption. While the world was woefully unprepared for the voracity of the virus, 2021 needs to be the year that defines humanity’s future and reshape societies to become stronger and more resilient”

He added: “With great change comes great opportunity. Valuable lessons emerged over the past year, which we must heed as we recover. Our individual and collective actions as nations have important consequences not only for us, but for our children and the many generations to come after them: we must all be accountable to ourselves and each other.”

With governments’ focus trained on the pandemic over the last 18 months, underlying societal issues such as the mental health and climate crises have exacerbated, and could become as problematic as the public health emergency if leaders do not adapt their thinking, the report suggests.

The 21 priorities outlined by the report are broken down into five sections:
These five focus areas are:

1. Reimagining and Reinforcing Key Public Institutions
2. Competing in a Transformed Economy
3. Navigating a Transformed Geo-Technical Order
4. Repairing the Social Fabric
5. Securing the Future

About WGS:
The World Government Summit Organization is a global, neutral, non-profit organization dedicated to shaping the future of governments. The Summit, in its various activities, explores the agenda of the next generation of governments, focusing on harnessing innovation and technology to solve universal challenges facing humanity.

The World Government Summit Organization operates at the intersection of government and innovation. It functions as a knowledge exchange platform that convenes leaders in the public and private sectors to collaborate with world-renowned experts in creating positive impact for citizens around the world. Including initiatives and events held throughout the year, the World Government Summit holds a flagship annual gathering in Dubai.

• Source: AETOSWire

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) -By Albert OGRAKA:

MANAGING Director/CEO of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Bashorun Askia Ogieh FCNA, CrFA, has assured that the Commission will deepen its resolve as a reliable partner in the collective march to enduring prosperity.

The DESOPADEC boss, who said this in a signed statement to mark the 2021 Workers’ Day, commended Nigerian workers in general and workers in the Commission for their dedication and commitment to duty.

“As the world celebrates workers, I join the good people of Nigeria in felicitating with organised Labour and all workers in the country.

While assuring workers of better days ahead, inspite of the current wave of insecurity in the country, he noted that “Against the backdrop of the kidnappings, killings and other security challenges facing Nigeria, workers have been living and operating in an inclement environment.

He acknowledged that, “However, it is times as this that awaken the unique strength in us as Nigerians,” saying that, “We are resilient, resourceful and unparalleled in our never-say-die spirit.”

According to him, “We are a people blessed by God and destined for greatness. The present challenges cannot deter or diminish us and our potentials.

“I share in your unwavering belief in a glorious future for our country. And by the grace of God, we shall overcome.

“For the people in our mandate communities, Labour Day reminds us of the limitless opportunities that abound in our society only if we harness our latent energies.

“Empowering our womenfolk and giving our younger generation the requisite skills to not only be self sufficient but also become employers of labour are cardinal targets of our intervention strategy. I assure our people that despite limited resources, the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) will deepen its resolve as a reliable partner in our collective march to enduring prosperity.

“On behalf of management and staff of DESOPADEC, I wish workers in Nigeria better days ahead.”

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

THE Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives has congratulated Nigerian workers as they join their compatriots in other parts of the world to celebrate this year’s Workers’ Day

The lawmakers, in a statement by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, on Saturday, commended the workers for their sacrifices in moving the nation forward despite the challenges they face.

“As the representatives of the people, our caucus recognizes and appreciates the sacrifices and commitment of our workers at all levels, in moving our dear nation forward despite the challenges they face under the current APC administration”

“Our caucus notes that workers in both the public and private sectors are critical drivers of our economic and social lives and as such must be given the adequate incentives and tools to effectively perform their duties”, the caucus stated.

The caucus assured that it will continue to give legislative backing to all efforts directed towards improving the welfare and productivity of the workers.

The lawmakers congratulated the Nigerian workers and wished them a successful celebration.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Austen AKHAGBEME:

IT is becoming increasingly nauseating, listening to our Presidential Spokesmen of late.

From the vocal cords of Mallam Garba Shehu to the erstwhile intelligent but polluted mind of Deacon Femi Adesina, truth and reality has taken an endless flight to the land of loquacious nativity where spurious untruths are spewed always, to defend a taciturn paymaster.

One wonders whether these Shield dogs and attack machines care about what posterity has in store for them and how a supposedly call to service has degenerated to a threshold of dishonesty and dishonor.There are those who argue that they’re merely doing their job. But what really is the scope of this job that makes someone lose his sanity and spewed foolishness from both sides of the mouth?

The controversial Rev Father Mbaka has created an opportunity of late to help us hear again, the usual warped thinking and lopsided emotions of Mallam Garba Shehu.

His response was that the Clergyman became disenchanted with his declared Messiah because of the latter’s refusal to compensate the Cleric in Kind in form of government contracts.

As Pedestrian as this is, one wonders if it couldn’t have been more golden for the Presidential spokesman to be silent. The base argument and reckless dismissal of the vociferous voices against the slaughter of the kidnapped Greenfield University students as ” this is not the first time people are dying “smacks of insensitivity and petulant delinquency.

Femi Adesina’s nuanced disposition, too, is not any better than Garba Shehu’s usual juvenile tantrums. Except that Adesina can be brutally combative with a most candid candor, full of hidden bile and literary senselessness.

Please let someone help me tell these folks that there’s life beyond and after Aso Villa; there’s just no need terrorising our collective sensibility by their wicked works and corrosive tongue. Honestly, there’s just no need!

• Austen AKHAGBEME is a Columnist with Blank NEWS Online

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Mike SOGBOLO/Abuja:

THE African Union Commission and the AU Peace and Security Council have undertaken a fact finding mission to the Republic of Chad.

The situation in Chad has become worrisome after his President and strongman, Idriss Déby Itno was killed at the warfront, creating a room for his son, Mahamat Deby Itno who was supported by the Chadian Army to head an interim government.

The situation in the country is believe to be explosive as the military are still in war with regards rebel group.

The Fact-Finding Mission is taking place pursuant to the PSC Communique [PSC/BR/COMM.2(CMXCIII)], adopted at its 993rd meeting held on 22 April 2021, on the situation in Chad. The PSC had authorized the AU Commission to constitute a Fact-Finding Mission, with the participation of PSC Members, to visit Chad and engage with the Chadian Authorities on all issues relating to the situation in the country, particularly to support the investigation into the killing of Late President Idriss Deby Itno, and ascertain the facts in an effort to restore constitutionalism.

The Fact-Finding Mission is expected to seek first-hand information from the Chadian Authorities and stakeholders, on the unfolding political and security situation, and examine strategies to facilitate a swift return to constitutional order and democratic governance, while concurrently preserving the security and territorial integrity of Chad.

Furthermore, the Fact-Finding Mission is expected to reaffirm the solidarity of the AU with the Government and people of Chad, as well as the unwavering commitment to support its transition process.

In its engagement with relevant stakeholders, the Mission is to consider core issues germane to the durable peace and stability of Chad, especially in countering terrorism and violent extremism, armed rebellion and transnational organized crime.

The Fact-Finding Mission is scheduled to hold consultations with regional and global actors, including the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD), Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the G-5 Sahel and the United Nations (UN), on the potential impact of the current developments in Chad for the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin regions.

The Mission is expected to submit its findings to the AU Peace and Security Council on or before 8 May 2021, for due consideration and decision on the situation in Chad.

A statement from the AU on Thursday said the African Union Commission, with the participation of the five (5)) Members of the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU), as well as the Democratic Republic of Congo in its capacity of Chairperson of the AU, arrived in N’Djamena, Chad on Thursday on a seven-day Fact-Finding Mission, from 29 April to 6 May 2021.

The statement said the mission is led by the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, along with the PSC Chairperson for the month of April 2021, Ambassador Idriss Farah of the Republic of Djibouti.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

THE President Muhammadu Buhari-led All Progressives Congress (APC) has come under severe criticisms for its governance ineptitude, that has left the Nigeria nation dysfunctional in its six years of despicable rulership and wrecking the ship of state, with maladministration.

Minority Leader in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, gave the condemnation while addressing the Emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), today, Thursday, April 29, 2021, at the PDP National Secretariat, Abuja.

While highlighting the fact that PDP was founded on the solid principles of national unity and inclusiveness as well as democratic tenets of rule of law, social justice, equal opportunity, transparency, mutual respect, sustainable economic development; welfare, security and happiness of all, Hon. Elumelu expressed sadness that all the hard work put in by the PDP to achieve a stable and more united country, with unprecedented economic growth, massive infrastructural development and citizen empowerment in its 16 years in power at the centre, has been destroyed by the clueless APC administration.

He said: “Sadly, these lofty gains have been wrecked within a space of six years by the overtly inept, corrupt, divisive and insensitive APC administration. We have never had it this bad in the history of our nation and Nigerians are crying out in pain.

“Today, due to the misrule of the APC, terrorism, mass killings, kidnapping, banditry, youth restiveness, economic hardship, unemployment, hunger and starvation and utter hopelessness, have encircled our nation. Nigerians across board are now intensely looking up to our party to rescue our dear nation and we must not fail them.”

Hon. Elumelu, who commended PDP leaders for the unity and oneness of purpose that have been achieved for the task ahead, equally pointed out that it is necessary that the party continues in this stead, as doing so would certainly lead the PDP to take back power at the centre and in most states of the federation, come 2023, and thereby save the nation from the current despondent situation.

He said further: “Our caucus had, against this backdrop, intensified our legislative activities in exposing the ills, incompetence, corruption and undesirability of the APC administration while highlighting that solutions lie only in returning the PDP to power at the center in 2023.

“I am pleased to report to NEC that given our unrelenting efforts, many of our colleagues in the APC have seen reasons to join forces with us and they have expressed their readiness to cross over to our party for the patriotic task ahead.

“May I use this medium to commend and congratulate the governors elected on the platform of our party for their landmark achievements and developmental projects in all sectors of life. Our governors have indeed made us proud and we hold them in very high esteem for signposting the commitment of the PDP to the Nigerian people.

“Furthermore, there is need for our party to remain stable. We therefore call on our leaders and critical stakeholders to unite in support of the NWC in the onerous task of piloting the affairs of our great party for the task ahead.

“Leaders of our party, ladies and gentlemen, Nigerians are waiting; they are queued behind us for direction. The onus now lies on all of us to remain united, focused and not allow any distractions at this critical time,” the Minority Leader pleaded.

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Michael EKOKORUWE:

MYSTERIOUS thunderstorm has allegedly killed three persons in Delta state.

According to anonymous sources, a young man known as Victory Emuobor was allegedly knocked out while playing football with other boys at Evoja primary school Oleh, Isoko South local government area of Delta State.

The rain storm that also destroyed properties worth millions of naira lasted for about one hour in the area just as the boys were playing football before the rain started.

The thunderstorm struck the four boys on the field while playing football and Victory Emuobor died instantly. The source said, other three boys survived after they were rushed to a nearby clinic for medical attention.

The shocking news about Victory’s death among members of the family also left sympathizers worried over the sudden thunderstorm that could not get to some communities close to Oleh kingdom.

According to the source, Victory Emuobor has been buried by the family members just as situations surrounding the mysterious death remained a source of worry.

In another development, a man and woman traveling on a motorcycle along Aviara road to Irri in Isoko South local government area were also allegedly struck by the thunderstorm and died as nobody came to their rescue.

According to the source, the thunderstorm struck a rubber tree that fell on them while on their way to Oleh community and unfortunately, the road was lonely due to the severity of the rain with thunderstorm.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Albert OGRAKA:

• Frowns @ Non Payment Of Journalists By Media Owners
• Wants Covid-19 Bail-Out Fund For Media Practitioners
• Urges FG To Rejig Security Apparatus
• Tasks FG To Tackle Electricity Supply Problems
• Condemns Soaring Unemployment
• Expresses Worry With High Inflation Rate
• Collapse Of Federal roads Nationwide

THE National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has passed a Vote of Confidence on its National President, Comrade Chief Chris Isiguzo and his team for moving the Union forward despite all odds.

The confidence vote is contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) held in Asaba, Delta State on Friday 16TH April, 2021.

The NEC of the Union further applauded and commended the Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa for providing infrastructure development across the state and his support towards the completion of the NUJ Press Centre Complex in Asaba.

Other key national issues were also raised in the 13-point communiqué, signed by the Union’s National Secretary, Shuaibu Usman Leman (Walin Shadalafiya).

COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE END OF THE MEETING OF THE NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL (NEC) OF THE NIGERIA UNION OF JOURNALISTS (NUJ) HELD IN ASABA, DELTA STATE ON FRIDAY 16TH APRIL, 2021.

Attended by National Officers and State Councils and the FCT, the meeting deliberated on issues of the Union and State of the Nation and resolves as follows:

STATE OF THE UNION

1. The issue of SWAN, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria was discussed exhaustively and NEC resolves that a seven Member Committee be set up to conduct fresh election for the Association within two months. The members are:
2. Mohammed She, National Treasurer, Chairman
3. Edward Ogude, VP Zone F, Member
4. Adeleye Ajayi, Chairman, Lagos Council, Member, while two members each will be selected from the contending groups.
5. Having taken due cognisance of the immense contributions and efforts of the National President- Chris Isiguzo and his team towards moving the Union forward despite all odds, NEC passes a Vote of Confidence on him and his Lieutenants.
6. On the Vote of No Confidence passed by Chairmen and Secretaries of Zone B on their Vice President, Cosmos Oni over issue of his retirement from service, NEC resolves to set up a three member Committee to determine his status of re-employment and report within two weeks to the National Secretariat. The National Secretaiat is mandated to implement the recommendations of the Committee without any further recourse to it. The Committee is made up of Abiodun Abdulkareem, National Financial Secretary as Chairman, Ladi Bala, National President of NAWOJ as Member and Michael Ikeogu, Chairman of Delta as Secretary. Another Committee was also setup to look into the allegations against the Kwara State Council, to be headed by the Vice President of the Zone, Wilson Bako, the National Trustee, Ali Atabo and Ladi Emmanuel, National Ex Officio, as members.
7. On the issue of Ogun State council in which judgement was given against the Union, NEC directs that Status-quo be maintained pending the determination of the case on appeal. NEC condemns those members who took the laws into their hands and cautions against a repeat of such dastardly act.

STATE OF THE NATION

5. The continuous non payment of salaries of Journalists by some Media owners has again been reviewed by the meeting and NEC believes that this negative trend continues to impact negatively on the practice of journalism. Media owners who owe journalists should discharge their obligations in this respect, responsibly and as when due. A situation where some journalists are made to work for months without any salary is an aberration and should be condemned.
6. The meeting recalls that in May last year, the NUJ wrote a letter to President Muhammadu Buhari appealing for a bail out fund for the media, primarily because of the Covid 19 Pandemic which has affected the global economy. NEC in session appeals once more to the Federal Government to urgently intervene to save the Media Industry from collapse. It reiterates it’s earlier position that a vibrant and independent Media is germane in a democracy and as such it should be jealously guarded and protected.
7. In reviewing the contributions of TETfund to tertiary education over the years, NEC commends the Management of the intervention agency led by Prof Suleiman Elias Bogoro of doing an excellent job. NEC however appeals for injection of sufficient funds into TETfund to ensure a complete overhaul of the Nation’s tertiary education system. NEC believes that increase in tax collection would translate to more funds to finance projects in our tertiary institutions, thereby improving education quality.
8. Security challenges: NEC urges the Federal Government to rejig the Security apparatus to enable it effectively tackle these challenges, especially the insurgency in the North East, banditry and kidnappings, cattle rustling and other forms of criminality that have assumed dangerous dimensions, thereby making free movement of people, goods and services from one part of the country to another a difficult challenge.
   To further strengthen the Security architecture, NEC also calls on the federal government to accede to the clamour for State Police to bolster the security system.
   The meeting while looking at the challenges of banditry in the Northwest , applauds the approach of the Zamfara State Governor, Bello Muhammad Matawalle in the handling of the security situation in the State that has brought some form of respite and peace. NEC encourages more of such positive engagements as a means of eradicating such heinous acts by gangs.
   The Union regrets the unprovoked killing of Nigerian soldiers while on assignment to help restore peace in some warring communities in Benue State and calls for proper investigation to fish out the culprits. However, NEC cautions against the use of excessive force in this process in order to avoid any collateral damages.
   Whiling appreciating the role of security check-points on the nation’s highways in reducing crime, NEC equally notes the hardships haulage trucks and transporters face because of extortion by security personnel. The meeting enjoins the Inspector General of Police and other agencies whose personnel are involved to address the issue in the best interest of motorists and other commuters.
9. NEC tasks the Federal Government to tackle the problems of electricity supply with all the seriousness it can muster.It also urges government to enforce the directive on metering as Nigerians have been subjected to more punishment for being made to pay for energy not consumed. The system of bulk payment to Electricity companies is callous and should be stopped without any delay.
10. The soaring unemployment in the country is also an issue of urgent concern and NEC wants the federal government to immediately consider recruiting more workers in all the Federal Government Ministries, Agencies and Parastatals. And in doing so, priority should be given to junior workers and the Federal Character Principles be taken into account in the spirit of fairness, equity and national cohesion.
11. NEC expresses worry with the high rate of inflation that has eroded the purchasing power of Nigerian citizens and thus increased their sufferings. NEC appeals to the Central Bank of Nigeria to urgently evolve additional measures that will limit inflation in the country. The Federal and State Governments should also consider providing succour to citizens especially now that the rainy season has set in.
12. Federal roads in the country have completely broken down and are now death traps. NEC appeals for a complete overhaul of the road network in the country and urges for a speedy rehabilitation of the rail system. A situation where road accidents take more lives than communicable diseases gives cause for concern.
13. NEC expresses profound gratitude to the Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa for graciously approving the request to host the NEC meeting in Asaba despite the economic realities in the country. It applauds the Governor for providing quality leadership in Delta State particularly in the area of infrastructure development spread across the State and the capital, Asaba. NEC also commends the support of Governor Okowa towards the completion of the NUJ Press Centre Complex in Asaba.

Compiled by:

1. John Angese
2. Ishaka Dedan Donald
3. Ladi Emmanuel

Signed:

Shuaibu Usman Leman
(Walin Shadalafiya)
National Secretary

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Mike SOGBOLO:

INDIAN Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has said the World has been asking the wrong questions since the end of the Second World War in 1945.

The Prime Minister, in his address on Tuesday, at the year’s Raisina Dialogue held in New Delhi but virtually broadcast across the globe because of COVID-19 as the international audience could not make their ways to India, said though humanity has faced many infectious diseases since the last global pandemic about a century ago, the world today is under-prepared to handle the ravaging COVID-19 pandemic.

He said: “Our scientists, researchers and industry have answered some questions:
What is the virus? How does it spread?
How can we slow it down? How do we make a vaccine? How do we administer vaccine at a scale and with speed?

“To these and many other such questions many solutions have emerged. And no doubt many more are yet to come. But as global thinkers and leaders we must ask ourselves some more questions.

“For over a year now, the best minds of our societies have been engaged in battling this pandemic. All the governments of the world at all levels are trying to contain and control this pandemic. Why did it come to this? Is it perhaps because in the race of economic development the concern for welfare of humanity has been left behind.”

The Prime Minister added that: “Is it perhaps because in the age of competition, the spirit of cooperation has been forgotten. The answer to such questions can be found in our recent past. Friends, the horrors of the first and second World War compelled the emergence of a new world order. After the end of the second world war, over the next few decades many structures and institutions were created but under the shadow of the two wars they were aimed at answering only one question, how to prevent the Third World War?”

He said: “Today, I submit to you that this was the wrong question, as a result all the steps taken were like treating a patient symptoms without addressing the underlying causes. Or to put it differently, all the steps taken were to prevent the last war not the next one.

“In fact while humanity has not faced the Third World War, the threat of violence has not reduced in people’s lives. With a number of proxy wars and unending terror attacks, the prospect of violence is ever present.”

He said the right questions should have included: “Why do we have famines and hunger? Why do we have poverty? Or most fundamentally Why can’t we cooperate to address problems that threaten the entire Humanity?”

He said: “I’m sure that if our thinking has been along such lines, very different solutions would have emerged.”

He said it was not too late to start asking right questions, stressing that: “The mistakes and misdeeds of the past seven decades need not constrain our thinking for the future. The Covid-19 pandemic has presented us an opportunity to reshape the world order, to reorient our thinking. We must create systems that addresses the problems of today and challenges of tomorrow.

“And we must think of the entire humanity and not merely of those who are on our side of the borders. Humanity as a whole must be at the center of our thinking and action.”

He noted: “During this pandemic, in our own humble way, within our own limited resources, we in India have tried to walk the talk. We have tried to protect our own 1.3 billion citizens from the pandemic. At the same time we have also tried to support the pandemic response efforts of others.”

He said despite many constraints, India has supplied vaccine to over 80 countries, though the supplies have been modest.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Austen AKHAGBEME:

THE shenanigans of the vicious Nigerian elites has for time immemorial, brought our Nation into a serious disrepute, knowingly or unknowingly.

They have gradually put fire to the inflammable tail of our socio- cultural pluralism which otherwise could have been annexed as a joyful expression of our hetrogenuity, as it is capable of promoting genuine national consciousness today.

Presently, every aggrieved youth is taking up arms against the state, calling for a chunk of his own home and nation where peace and justice reigns. This is made possible by the false and faulty foundation laid by the earliest political elites, nurtured by their succeeding generation and expanded by the present crop of their deaf variety, who are vigorously steering the ship of state to its dangerous precipice.

While we stand in awe and disbelief about what is happening to our dear country, this same political elites are busy, rallying, tallying, hobnobbing and horse trading with one another (all in readiness for 2023 elections) what remains of our embattled polity, deliberately oblivious or pretentious of the danger ahead.

Is there something that these politicians know that is unclear and unknowable by the rest of us, especially against the backdrop of the present existential threat posed by wanton violence and insecurity pervading the land?

Why would any sane patriot or nationalist be thinking of an election first when the electorates are being kidnapped, raped and their properties and homes burnt in a rapid succession across the nation? How did we come across these crop of insensitive elites whose heart of human compassion is at their back?

Why would anyone be thinking of 2023 elections first, instead of the undeclared war going on in our polity? Who will come out to vote in an environment fraught with fear and trepidation? How do you ferry across the states, electoral materials when the roads and terrains are increasingly becoming war theatres for daredevil kidnappers etc?

Let all hands, both the filthy and the clean, be on deck to solve the present security issues while we forget for now, the distraction called 2023 election.

• Austen AKHAGBEME is a Columnist with –Blank NEWS Online

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Austen AKHAGBEME:

ONE of the palpably visible source of anger that readily culminates into feelings of separatism and other existential cry in our Nation today is insecurity.

This is more so, given the level of workable strategies ( or lack of it) and the attention the government has given to it so far. Pan-Nigerianism is taking a backdoor in the present scheme of things as everyone seems to remain on the extreme position based on whether or not we should remain as one.

Ethno-religious tendencies are taking over hitherto peaceful composures and ethnic belligerence , hate and hate speech is gradually taking over our sanity and sanctity.

Who are the victims of the Status quo and who are the predators? Who is the predator or the victim of this present arrangement between the poor man in Sokoto and the one in Abakaliki or Osogbo; who have been bamboozled, cheated, oppressed and marginalised by his own rich and privileged ethnic neighbour and fellow countrymen?

What is the difference between the Northern elites and their southern counterparts in terms of selfless devotion to their ethnic course, desires and the welfare of their people? Why are some of us easily believing that the end of Nigeria as a sovereign entity is the end of all challenges and more, for every individual and ethnic group that once make up the nation?

Why are we suddenly believing that an Egba man will have no grudges with an Ekiti man and that a Wawa man from Enugu will always be at peace with his brother in Abakaliki? All of a sudden, the Igede man in Benue will feel more comfortable with his Tiv brother in Gboko and the Bini man in Edo state will forever embrace his brother from Okpekpe, Irrua or Agenebode.

These are powerful pessimistic conjectures that no one wants to give a deeper, fairer and more objective thought to, but rather choose to run off with the emotional speed of separatist tendencies as an all inclusive panacea to our present woes.

Nigeria’s problem was and still is the mismanagement of her diversity by ethically biased comprador nationalists but superbly able, regionally minded politicians who actually proved their mettle in their regions. Those who pretended not to understand this ( especially the military usurpers) further balkanised the nation into unviable hungry fragments called states, all in a bid to appear nationalistic or as Patriotic heros.

There are only two tribes in Nigeria; the tribe of the predatory rich elites and that of the poor masses who incidentally, are the crying victims. Let us go back to where we missed it and let Nigeria be.

• Austen AKHAGBEME is a Columnist with Blank NEWS Online

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Michael J. EKOKORUWE:

THE Delta State Chapter of the League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV), has commended Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor of Delta State, for providing a veritable platform that has successfully made 17 women to emerge as Vice Chairmen and about 90 Women Councilors in the 25 Local Government Areas of the state.

The statement signed by Dame Dr. Esther Uduehi and Chief Mrs. Rosalyn Egborge, both National President and Delta State Chapter Chairperson of the League of Women Voters of Nigeria stated that, Governor Okowa through the unprecedented concern for gender equality in Delta State, ensured that the women were fully represented and integrated as key players in the governance and leadership of the State.

While thanking Governor Okowa, the League noted that, the achievements could only have been delivered by astute, strategic vision and firm courageous leadership.

The group in the statement reiterated the commitment and confidence reposed on the administration of Governor Okowa in the area of total participation in governance, stressing that, to have 17 women as Vice Chairmen out of the 25 local government areas of the state, shows an affirmation of the government determination of heighten gender equality and the girl child development initiative.

“For the first time in the political history of Delta State, 17 women and 92 women Councilors were elected during the last local government elections in Delta State”, the group stated. Adding that women and the girl child have been favoured in political appointments, skills and vocational training.

The release also commended Her Excellency, Dame Edith Okowa, First Lady of Delta State and President 05 Initiative for being a great pillar to Delta State women, noting that Dame Okowa has influenced women participation in politics, public service, women mobilization, development and empowerment.

The statement added that, Dame Okowa has placed the rights of women as key partners in collective efforts towards building a sustainable, political growth process and stronger Delta State.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Mike SOGBOLO::

OXFAM International has promised to continue to defend those who are marginalised, and whose rights have been trampled upon.

It gave the promise at the fifth anniversary of its VOICE project, aimed at defending the rights of women in society.

The VOICE project, is being implemented with support from the Netherlands and focuses on Nigerian women who are victims of abuse.

At the anniversary celebration held on Wednesday in Abuja, Constant Tchona, Oxfam country director in Nigeria, said the organisation believes that the country’s sustainable development depends on “the collective effort we make to recognise the different levels of disabilities in the society”.

Tchana, who was represented, a project manager with Oxfam, Olumide Ojo, added that: “What we are doing is to be able to recognise different levels of abilities; we don’t call it disabilities. Recognising people that are marginalised — people whose rights have been trampled upon — those are the people we’re working with, and we hear different stories from the celebration of the fifth year of VOICE.

“We see how much encouragement a lot of people get from the testimonies of the people that are encapsulated in our projects. You hear about how Oxfam is leading the way in challenging negative social norms and cultural practices that are holding women back in the society.”

On her part, the VOICE project coordinator, Ijeoma Okwor,, said the organisation has, through the initiative, recorded some strides, including ensuring gender-sensitive training is compulsorily taken as a course in various correctional facilities.

Okwor also said a gender sensitisation manual has been developed and adopted by prisons, while affordable sanitary pads are being produced by female inmates inside Suleja correctional facilities.

One of the project beneficiaries from Enugu state, Antonia Ede, told journalists at the event that the initiative helped to abolish cultural practices such as widows being required to stay indoors and not combing their hair for one month.

Ede said the project has given women in her community in Umuode access to inheritance, adding that for the first time in the community’s history, two women have become cabinet members of the igwe-in-council.

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Mike SOGBOLO::

A Madrid-bound suspected drug trafficker, Okonkwo Chimezie Henry arrested at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Ikeja has excreted a total of 113 wraps of cocaine weighing 1.750 kilogrammes, with a street value of N423 million.

Okonkwo, who was arrested on Easter day, Sunday 4th April, 2021, was about boarding a Turkish Airline flight number TK0626 at about 8pm when he was apprehended at screening point 2.

He was taken into custody by the NDLEA operatives at the Lagos airport and subsequently put under observation at the JBTF/NDLEA facility for further investigation.

Okonkwo, who has been living in Spain, 24
hours after he was put under observation excreted 39 wraps of cocaine and subsequently passed out a total of 113 wraps in five exretions.

Further investigation revealed he ingested the illicit drug in a hotel in Igando area of Lagos.

Speaking on the incident, the Commander, MMIA Command of the NDLEA, Ahmadu Garba, said: “The suspect excreted 39 wraps weighing 600 grammes at 9.58am on April 5; 13 wraps weighing 200 grammes at 6.30pm same day; 16 wraps weighing 250 grammes at 10.30pm same day; and 32 wraps weighing 500 grammes at 7.30am on April 6.”

In the same vein, operatives at the airport have intercepted a 2.8 kilogrammes of skunk meant for Dubai in UAE through Emirate Airline.

The illicit drug was concealed in crayfish; bitter leaves and melons packaged in a sack but was recovered at the SAHCO export shed of the MMIA.

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) in his reaction commended officers and men of the MMIA Command of the Agency for not allowing criminal elements take advantage of the Easter holiday to further their illicit trade, and dent Nigeria’s image abroad.

He said: “We all must stay committed to the ongoing offensive action at the airports, seaports, land borders, on the streets of Nigerian cities and across the various drug joints and even in the forests where some are hiding to cultivate and process cannabis sativa. We must disrupt their illicit trade and dismantle their cartels.”