The recent electoral, nay, generational clash between President Museveni of Uganda and Bobi Wine, the youth prodigy and opposition leader in the just concluded presidential elections, is another pointer to the continued domination of the old brigade in Africa political landscape in many more years to come.
Museveni, who just won his sixth term of five years each, extending his rule to four decades, has become an effigy of political constipation, electoral impunity, a soured fragrance of an expired ointment begging for relevance.
One wonder how the computation of results was so flawlessly swift amidst the internet lockdown in Uganda before, during and after the elections. His over 58 percent grab of the total votes cast, reveals either his uncanny ability to upturn election results, or the people’s naivety to understand that the expired fox has no new ideas to put Uganda, on a new and better pedestal for development any more.
Like Nigeria, there’s no denying the fact that Uganda has been so plagued with bad leaders since 1962, when they got their political independence. The infamous maximum ruler, Idi Amin, a voodoo ‘economist’ who saw nothing wrong with printing more currency when the treasury is lean, was from Uganda.
Milton Obote, especially in his second coming, was as nepotic and despotic as Idi-Amin Dada. His preference for the Acholi ethnic group and the brutality of his reign, left much to be desired.
Above all, the aloofness of the fellow leaders of other African Nations when Museveni practically locked away his opposition leader, the 38 year-singer- turned- lawmaker, in this election prior to voting, made nonsense of the erstwhile lip service policy of the African peer review mechanism. If it was Nigeria, that singular act was bad enough to influence sympathy votes and voters to the side of the opposition a la Edo governorship election.
When will these old and expired folks call it quit? How have they been able to hold sway despite their tired brains, bones, gait and guts? How is it that most African youths are easily mesmerized by the antics of filthy lucre to the detriment of their great future? What is it in politics, in Africa, that only the old gangs knew that the youths do not know?
These are the questions that bothers the mind and makes one wonder whether or not we’re jinxed as a people, easily bamboozled by the old cyclical clique of a rogue elite, masquerading as saviours on the African political terrain. This is painful.
Robert Kyagunlayi Ssentamu ,popularly known as Bobi Wine, is a courageous young man, a parliamentarian, musician and actor, who chose to stir the hornet’s net in what is recorded as the greatest opposition and threat to President Museveni’s endless advent in Uganda.
His courage is worthy of emulation by all other African youths, in our collective attempt to snatch Africa back from the feeble and filthy hands of these gerontic leaders and their collaborators. And that time is now!
Austen AKHAGBEME is a Columnist with Blank NEWS Online
Delta State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has cancelled the recent transfer of over 4,500 secondary school teachers across the state by the Post Primary Education Board (PPEB).
The Commissioner in charge of the ministry, Mr. Patrick Ukah, in a statement in Asaba today (17/01/2021) said that with the increasing rate of COVID-19 infections across the country, which have already affected the adjusted academic calendar, transferring teacher at this time will lead to further loss of academic hours as the affected teachers will need time to adjust and settle down in their new schools.
He therefore directed the PPEB to cancel the posting immediately and called on the affected teachers to remain in their duty posts as students return back to school for second term academic activities on Monday (18/01/2021).
Mr. Ukah assured that the state government is working round the clock to put necessary measures in place to curtail the spread of the disease in the state, especially among pupils, students and teachers.
I met Egba sometimes in 1989 while I was working with the Law Firm of Sofunde, Osakwe, Ogundipe & Belgore. He was with CentrePoint Merchant Bank…we had gone to their office for an All Parties Meeting and we hit it off thereafter and thus began a life time of brotherhood.
I recall with nostalgia in 2006 when as Managing Director of the Federal Government-owned Skypower Aviation Handling Company (SAHCOL), I was saddled with the responsibility of the full privatization of this moribund Agency. I invited Egba even before he approached me and handed him the entire brief and working with the Liquidator to the transaction, the now also late Babbington-Ashaye, they delivered what has been adjudged the best and most transparent privatization process ever in the history of our country.
Egba made history with the rest of us that delivered a hitherto Government wasting asset to a World Class profit making private and now a Public Quoted Company Limited by Shares in the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Egba was my Chief Adviser from the beginning of the transaction in 2006 until it was completed in 2010.
Fast forward to our time working together in the Delta State Economic Council. Egba will call me to know when I’m coming to Lagos for the next meeting and whether I have put “the Great Duke”(Nduka Obaigbena) on notice to make sure he gets those large snails we often enjoyed whenever we visited his Glover Road residence after our deliberations. That was Egba, simple and down to earth, no frills and no pretences.
Egba was an enigma, an incurable optimist, a big picture player and great all round non-conformist genius. He could see aspects of a deal that was not visible to the naked eye and was always ready to thread where eagles would not dare. He was also very humane and sensitive, always eager to make sure that all was well with everyone around him.
He had a “side name” for everyone he liked usually prefixed by the word “Great”. Whenever or wherever I heard “the Great Ogeah” I knew Egba was not too far away. This was often followed with a loud hearty laughter and the best smile ever…he was a good looking guy and a jolly good man. Again, we fast forward to the purple patch, when things were not really looking too good. Egba will call me and after the usual hailing ask me if the 100 million USD he had told me to raise was ready and I would be like Egba where am I going to get that from in this depressed economy. He would tell me to stop underrating myself and go get the money, that the money is right here in this economy.
And we went through this ritual even just a couple of days to his death when he called as usual but this time I did not know it was his way of saying Goodbye because I was supposed to see him that weekend as he had come in from Abuja and GOD knows I tried but all the road works and bridge closures all over Lagos made it impossible until he left back to Abuja where he had been spending more time in his latter days. Not seeing him for our usual banter was obviously a grievous mistake as I never got to see him again.
I would forever treasure the bond of true friendship and brotherhood we shared and it will forever be a source of pain to me that me and all his very distinguished friends should have stepped in much quicker to arrest the situation though, to our defence, Egba did not make it too easy for us as his dreams were just too big for our myopic comprehension.
It is well my brother, my friend, my comrade, my Egbatics as I often called him. You have run your race and you have done your time and gone to a place where I’m sure you will be better understood. You certainly came before your time.
Sleep well and enjoy eternal rest but, knowing you, I’m sure you must be structuring the biggest Deal going down in Heaven right now….Missing you.
Chike OGEAH, Esq is the Vice Chairman, Skyway Aviation Handling Company PLC, Lagos.
-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Michael EKOKORUWE:
The youth wing of the apex social cultural body of Isoko Nation, Isoko Development Union (IDU) led by its interim president, Comrade Ede Ewariezi Hyacinth, has condemned the renewed hostility between Igbide and Emede communities in Isoko South local government area as scores of persons are feared dead and properties worth millions of naira destroyed.
Comrade Ede Hyacinth, while speaking to newsmen at the national secretariat of Isoko Development Union in Oleh, appealed to Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, governor of Delta State to urgently send security agents to restore peace in the warring communities of Igbide and Emede.
He stated that the invasion of Igbide and Emede by unidentified armed youths is condemnable, unacceptable and must be stopped forthwith.
He said, “We were created together by the Almighty God for the purpose of peaceful coexistence and to complement each other in the ways we can”. Ede Hyacinth maintained that the act of butchering citizens over pieces of land is worthless, and called on the youths in both communities to henceforth desist from being used as soldiers and tools of war in their own land.
While commending the efforts of Isoko Development Union and other stake holders towards lasting peace in both communities, Ede Hyacinth said, “Isoko is a land of peace and we must continue to remain a shining example to other ethnic nationalities”.
He further appealed to the state government to set up committee of inquiry to look into the causes of the recent crisis and find lasting solution to the impasse.
Ede Hyacinth said, ‘enough is enough’ and called on both communities to embrace peace and live in harmony, emphasizing that the crisis is disgusting in this New Year 2021.
The IDU interim youth president noted that the youth wing of Isoko Development Union is for the progress of Isoko land just as various committees were set to monitor projects and work in collaboration with the security agents. He charged members of various committees to strictly adhere to changing the narratives of Isoko nation.
He appealed to Governor Okowa to urgently send security agents to clear road blocks mounted by the warring communities along major roads, noting that people passing through the roads face constant harassment every day and night.
Ede Hyacinth commended the President General of Isoko Development Union, Dr. Chris Akpotu for setting up the youth wing body and urged the various committees to be strong, noting that the selection and subsequent inauguration is for effective representation of each community of Isoko Nation.
Earlier, Dr. Chris Akpotu urged the youth wing of Isoko Development Union to remain committed towards the development of Isoko ethnic nationality.
He noted that the youths have been reformed and should have positive attitudinal change in all activities of the body and urged them to be entrepreneurs, trusted, peaceful and rebranded youth wing of IDU.
Delta State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has confirmed the resumption date for second term for all public and private primary and secondary schools in the state.
According to a statement by the State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Patrick Ukah, in Asaba today (15/01/2021), public and private primary and secondary schools will resume classes on Monday, January 18, 2021.
The statement, which indicated that boarders are to return on Sunday, January 17, 2021, disclosed that the final decision was reached during a meeting between the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, and Commissioners of Education from the 36 states of the country, labour unions, representatives of private schools and other critical stakeholders in Abuja.
Mr. Ukah said that all COVID-19 protocols put in place before the commencement of the 2020/2021 academic session in all schools in the state are to be strictly adhered to.
He reiterated that there must be temperature test at the point of entry into the schools, compulsory wearing of facemasks, regular washing of hands, use of hand sanitizers, ensure social distance and schools with large population of students are to continue to run the morning and afternoon shifts.
The statement, which stated that no pupils, students, teachers or visitors are to be allowed entry into any school without wearing facemasks, urged parents and guardians to strictly adhere to the new dates by preparing the pupils and students for school resumption, adding that resumption tests will take place on Wednesday, January 20, 2021.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education reminded pupils and students that the resumption test will be part of their second term continuous assessment.
>>As Gov. Okowa Performs Ground-Breaking Of Tower Manufacturing/Fabrication In Issele-Uku
–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):
Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has assured investors that his administration would continue to provide an enabling environment, including infrastructure, for industries to thrive in the state. Okowa gave the assurance on Thursday at the ground-breaking of DELFRASCO Industries Limited, Tower Manufacturing and Testing, Industrial Fabrication and Hot Dip Galvanising Facility in Issele-Uku, Aniocha North Local Government Area of the state. He lauded Issele-Uku community for its support and cooperation with the state government, and commended the project partners, Delta Investment and Development Agency (DIDA) for commitment and tenacity. “The location of this industry demonstrates your confidence in Project Nigeria while giving fillip to our administration’s industrialization drive. It is my earnest expectation that this project will flourish, and that God will reward you abundantly for taking the bull by the horns. “Upon completion, this will be Nigeria’s and indeed, Africa’s first and largest multi-industry local content industrial complex, providing products and services to power, oil and gas, telecom, agriculture and other industries. “Major customers are expected to include Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Nigeria LNG Train 7 Projects, EPC Contractors in Energy and Infrastructure Projects and telecom infrastructure providers. “It is envisaged to meet the present and future demand for tower manufacturing in Nigeria as well as the whole of Africa, and contribute positively to the socio-economic development of Delta State and Nigeria,” Okowa said. He listed the benefits of the project as being a hub for power transmission technology, creation of over 1000 direct jobs, generating foreign currency earnings for Nigeria through export of towers to other parts of Africa, development and training of Nigerian manpower, amongst others. The governor stated that Delta remained Nigeria’s gas and energy capital, holding about 40 per cent of the country’s gas reserves and supplying over 50 per cent of its daily gas production. “This administration will continue to create the enabling environment for companies and industries to thrive and provide gainful employment for our youths in a safe, secure, and supportive environment. “I am particularly pleased with the manpower development component of this project as it will complement the various skills training and entrepreneurship development programmes of this administration. He said that the coming of DELFRASCO Industries Limited was another example of his administration’s commitment to diversifying the economy of Delta and enhancing its business competitiveness. According to him, since 2015 when we came on board, we have enabled the Ease of Doing Business in Delta State through several policy initiatives, including the establishment of Delta State Investment Development Agency (DIDA). “It is gratifying that efforts in this regard are yielding the desired dividends and, I dare say, Delta is becoming the investor’s preferred destination,” he added. Okowa urged the private sector in Delta to take full advantage of all incentives put in place to bolster ease-of-doing-business in the state. “Aside from the establishment of DIDA, we introduced measures to facilitate quick and painless access to land, harmonize the tax regime, and have accelerated infrastructural growth. “With an expanding market and a vibrant youth population, any investor in Delta is sure of a handsome return on investment,” he disclosed. Chairman of DELFRASCO Industries Limited, Chief Chukwuma Okolo, in his remark, said that the project was one of its kind in Africa, with its integrated tower fabrication testing and galvanising facilities. He underscored the significance of the project as enormous, saying that testing towers for electricity transmission were still being done outside the country. Okolo therefore, said that upon completion, the company would render industrial fabrication services for oil and gas industries and agricultural industries, among others. He stated that as an export facility and a world-class training centre for Deltans and Nigerians, DELFRASCO would also render other services including production of poultry cages, grain storage and irrigation pipes. Okolo said the company would also assist in the resolution of power problems in Nigeria, and that Delta would be the hub of electricity transmission. He assured that the first set of facilities would be completed in the first quarter of 2022 while all facilities were expected to be completed at the end of the year. President-General, Issele-Uku Development Union, Chief Kenneth Ofodile, thanked Governor Okowa for supporting the establishment of the project in the community. He said that the community was grateful to the government and the promoters of the investment for making it part-owner of the project and assured of the community’s support to the project. Dr Thomas Inugonum, representative of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), expressed delight at the take-off of the project, assuring that TCN would partner the company to ensure early completion of the project. “Tower Manufacturing, Testing and Galvanising, and Fabrication will create so many jobs for the youths of this area,” he said. The ceremony was attended by the state’s Deputy Governor, Mr Kingsley Otuaro; former Deputy Governor of the state, Chief Benjamin Elue; Obi of Issele-Uku, Obi Nduka Ezeagwuna and top government and private sector functionaries.
The Delta State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a private company, Enfrasco Ltd for the establishment of a Transmission Tower Manufacturing & Testing, Industrial Fabrication and Hot Dip Galvanization Facility at Issele-Uku in Aniocha Local Government Area of Delta State.
The signing formality took place in Asaba with the Chairman Delta State Investments Development Agency (DIDA), Hon. Paul Nmah and the Director General of the Agency, Olorogun Lucky Oghene-Omoru signing on behalf of the Delta State Government while the Project Chairman & Sponsor Mr. Chukwuma Okolo, Director Enfrasco Ltd, Mr. Afam Ozoekwem and Legal Adviser of the Company, Mr. Godfrey Ogbolu signed for Enfrasco Ltd to officially commence the initial process of the establishment of the Facility.
In a statement after the signing ceremony, the Chairman of Delta State Investments Development Agency (DIDA) Hon. Paul Nmah said that he was elated that the MoU had been signed to signal the level of seriousness the State Government attached to project prospects that will impact on the overall economy of the State.
He said that a project of this magnitude will ensure revenue and employment generations which are key concerns of His Excellency Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa. He noted also that it will help to open up the area to various opportunities that will elevate the living standard of the populace.
The DIDA Chairman gave the assurance that the Agency will leave no stone unturned to ensure that the facility commences within the stipulated time frame.
Speaking on the scope of the Project and the overall impact on the State economy the Project Chairman & Sponsor, Mr. Chukwuma Okolo said that the Tower Manufacturing Plant with over 50,000 tons per annum capacity will produce Towers for Power Transmission from 33KV to 1000KV lines for both Nigeria and Export. According to him it will also produce Transmission and Distribution Substation gantry structures and Telecommunication Towers.
Mr. Okolo stated further that the Tower Testing and Research Station will test Transmission Towers of various types to International Standards and is equipped with facilities to perform tests on Towers up to 1000KV and 120meters in height and it would be the largest and only facility of this type in Africa.
The Industrial Complex according to Mr. Okolo will host a 96,000 tons per annum Hot Dip Galvanising Plant to offer galvanizing and corrosion protection to Steel Structures both internally produced and for third parties and also a wide range of Structural Steel products including Street Lighting Poles and Gratings will also be produced.
Commenting on the impact on the Facility on the State economy he said it will create employment opportunities for over 1000 persons, increase internally generated revenue at State and Local government level and develop manpower for the Energy Industry.
He stated further that a Training School and fully equipped electro-mechanical Workshop that will provide services and international quality training and certification for Deltans and Nigerians which he said will complement the Skills, Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP) of Delta State Government.
The Project will produce products currently being imported into Nigeria and save foreign exchange for Nigeria. It will contribute to Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings by exports particularly with the opportunity provided by the New Africa Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). He further stated.
Mr. Okolo noted that the DELFRASCO Project is a predominantly private sector investment with financing provided by financial institutions, private equity funds and the sponsors.
Meanwhile he said Delta State as part of its policy of attracting and derisking investments to the State has approved some investment and the provision of Land in collaboration with Issele-Uku Community.
He reiterated that the Project completion is planned for 24 months after the ground breaking ceremony.
-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Yabo Chris EPHRAIM:
It is said that the reward for hard work is more work. With consistency, resilience, diligence and dedication to duty, the Nigerian Army has blocked the routes of terrorists supplies, closing in and restricting them to an uncomfortable space, freed many hostages, arrested dozens of kidnappers, cattle rustlers and other criminal elements thereby gradually reducing the threat and tension generated by insecurity to the barest minimum. I said this because there is no nation that is crime free, what is expected is to bring the security challenges to a manageable proportion which Nigeria’s security agencies have so far commendably achieved.
Many politicians, social commentators, right activists and other groups with vested interest, who are praise singers to the terrorists and criminal elements no longer have something to cheer and praise as the general security situation of the country has been brought under control.This wouldn’t have been achieved if the Nigerian Army under the able leadership of Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai allowed all the distractions, negative propaganda and misrepresentation to interfere with their vision, focus and clear judgement.
It would seem that these category of social commentators, politicians and activists often go silent when there is a relative peace and whenever it is obvious that the security forces are winning the battle against the insurgents and other criminals in Nigeria. Probably they benefit more from insecurity as it has now obviously become a lucrative enterprise to mislead, confuse and set the public against the government and security agencies.
So much is going on in this quiet time to turn the tides against insecurity in our country. The army control and command structure is on a regular basis being monitored, assessed and rejigged by the Chief of Army Staff for greater Professionalism and effectiveness. The field officers, commanding officers and senior non commissioned officers amongst other personnel of the army have been regularly posted out and into the various theatres of Operations across the nation. More intelligence is being gathered and those who sponsor and fund terrorism and insecurity are being trailed through collaboration with relevant agencies and sister security organisations.
The Nigerian Army is not an institution that thrive on noisemaking and unnecessary distractions. Those who want to distract and engage the Nigerian Army in noisemaking will be utterly disappointed because there is little time available for such trivialities in the Nigerian army’s permutations. The job requires utmost selfless service, concentration, calculation, bravery, gallantry, discipline, skills and tact.
It is however uncharitable that the mission, blood and sacrifices of the officers and men of the Nigerian Army which should be appreciated is turned into a debate of contradictions. With many spewing hateful comments and dwelling on mundane issues such as the tenure of service chiefs. As the result of the consistent onslaughts against terrorists, criminal elements and their collaborators are beginning to manifest, there is hope in the horizon. The forces of darkness are losing grip and our troops are unrelenting. This must be sustained despite hitches here and there notwithstanding. The job of defending our country is the hallmark of patriotism. This deserve the support and cooperation of all Nigerians.
The United States House of Representatives on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 voted 232 against 197 in favour of impeachment of President Donald Trump, making him the first American president to be impeached twice in US history. Ten Republicans also voted alongside Democrats to impeach Trump.
President Trump was charged with “incitement of insurrection” for his role in the violent protest by a pro-Trump mob in the U.S. Capitol that left at least five people dead. Lawmakers were allegedly terrorized as they sought to affirm President-elect Joe Biden’s victory.
The article of impeachment had also cited Trump’s alleged January 2 phone call urging Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to “find” enough votes to overturn the state’s election results as part of his effort “to subvert and obstruct the certification of the results of the 2020 presidential election.”
The House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi had promised to immediately send the article of impeachment to the Senate, to commence a trial process of conviction against Trump and to ban him from further holding public office.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said that the trial would begin after the Senate reconvenes on Tuesday, a day before president-elect Biden is sworn into office.
Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, a member of the GOP leadership, was the highest-ranking Republican to vote to impeach Trump. She was joined by John Katko of New York, Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, Fred Upton of Michigan, Peter Meijer of Michigan, Anthony Gonzalez of Ohio, Tom Rice of South Carolina, David Valadao of California, and Jaime Herrera Beutler and Dan Newhouse of Washington. Four other Republicans didn’t vote.
Recall that no House Republican voted to impeach Trump during the inquiry that resulted in a Senate acquittal earlier in his term.
Many House Republicans argued during debate that Trump was not afforded due process and that the impeachment process was rushed. Some said impeaching Trump for a second time would only further divide the country, while others maintained that his actions of January 6 did not meet the legal standard for incitement.
“I believe impeaching the president in such a short time frame would be a mistake,” Kevin McCarthy of California, the top House Republican, said during debate.
“No investigations have been completed. No hearings have been held,” he added. “A vote to impeach will further fan the flames of partisan division.” But McCarthy said Trump needed to accept his share of responsibility for the riot, and he said a congressional censure would be in order.
The impeachment vote follows a House vote late Tuesday to formally call on Vice President Mike Pence to use the 25th Amendment of the Constitution to remove Trump from office, citing his inability to continue acting as president. The act, which was largely symbolic, passed the House by 223-205 along partisan lines, with Kinzinger as the sole Republican to vote in favor.
Pence, had last week, informed Pelosi shortly before the vote that he would not invoke the 25th Amendment, writing in a letter to Pelosi that he did not believe “such a course of action is in the best interest of our Nation or consistent with our Constitution.”
One week after the attack, hundreds of armed National Guard officers paraded the Capitol while others reportedly slept at the Capitol on Tuesday night ahead of Wednesday sitting.
Earlier, the Senate Historical Office claimed it was aware of only two other occasions during which troops stayed overnight in the Capitol: during World War II and during the riots in Washington in 1968.
Two former American presidents, Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton have been impeached for “high crimes and misdemeanours”, but Trump remains the first to have been impeached twice, and the only one to be impeached barely week to the end of his term and inauguration of another president.
The federal government has approved the posting of new Ambassador-Designates to Nigerian Missions abroad.
The posting of a total of 95 ambassadors was given a nod in the latest approval.
The approval was communicated in a press release. No: MFA/PR/2021/04 on Tuesday by tthe Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja
The press release signed by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Amb Gabriel Aduda read in part: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the posting of Ambassador-Designates to Nigerian Missions abroad.
“The list includes 43 Career Ambassadors and 52 Non-career Ambassadors.”
It further said. “With this development, the process of requesting Agrement from the prospective host countries have commenced.
“The Ministry also wishes to inform that there will be an induction course for the Ambassador-Designates and their spouses which will hold on a date to be announced shortly to prepare and facilitate movement of the Envoys to their respective Missions.”
WARRI– The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Bashorun Askia Ogieh has tasked the executive of the Isoko National Youth Assembly, INYA to mobilise and engage the leaders, women and the youths on peace building and conflict resolution especially of the crises-ridden communities in Isoko ethnic nationality.
He made the charge at the Headquarters of the commission in Warri on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 when the executive members of the Isoko youth body led by the President, Comrade Amos Ogbokor-Etaluku paid him a courtesy visit.
Bashorun Askia observed that, “there is a new wave in the Isoko Ethnic Nationality that is alien to us, where it’s coming from, I do not know, it is very alien to us. The Isokos are known to be brothers keepers. The Isokos are known to be good neighbours. The Isokos are known to be very religious, a pious one at that. The Isokos are known to be very sociable. We are known to be very civil. Yes, we may be republican but in all of these, we are known to be very responsible and peaceful people. These are what are known of the Isoko people for ages past, but suddenly, in the recent past, the narratives have changed, and it’s very worrisome that the narratives are changing not for good but for bad,”
“So Mr. President of INYA, I must say that the task is much on you, on your shoulder to bring the youths together, to pass on the message, there is need for us to be at peace with ourselves. There is need for us to be at peace, you have to talk to your members, if it is possible move from clan to clan, from village to village, sensitise them, that they should not make themselves available as tools for this war.
“You must find a way out to talk peace. Mr. President I want to have your commitment on this. You can work with me and I will work with you on way out to get this thing off. In terms of the logistics I will be available because I need peace in Isoko.”
Continuing, Bashorun Askia said, “Everything about my relationship with you people as at now is hinged on the peace process in Isoko. I am pained, the narratives out there is not good for us, please, help me, and let us do something to change the narrative.”
The DESOPADEC boss who assured the foremost Isoko youth body of the Commission’s continued support said, “Your our visit is timely, I am happy that you came, and DESOPADEC under my watch will continue to cooperate with you because like I said from the beginning that I am aware of the elections that produced you and your Exco and I know it was free, fair and credible, and very genuine and I know for you as Mr. President that I have always known all over the years, is that you have the capacity, and that is why I am saying that capacity I know of you before, this is the time to demonstrate it on the issue of the peace process”, he added.
In his remark, the president of INYA, Comrade Ogbokor-Etaluku said the purpose of the visit was to thank the commission’s Managing Director for the role he played in ensuring the emergence of the newly elected executive, the support to the assembly, the unprecedented development being witnessed in Isoko nation and to assure him of the unstinted support of the Assembly in the delivery of concrete dividends of democracy as enshrined in the mandates of the Commission.
Present during the visit were apparatchiks of the Commission including Chief Lawrence Eduje the Chief Security Officer of the Commission, Chief Obaro Godspower the Isoko South Chairman of the PDP and Chief Prosper Edo Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on DESOPADEC Matters.
WHAT NEW INYA PRESIDENT MUST DO TO CHECKMATE COMMUNAL CRISES IN ISOKO LAND, BY BASHORUN ASKIA OGIEH
(Being the extempore speech by the Managing Director of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Bashorun Askia Ogieh, on the occasion of the vourtesy visit by the Executive Members of the Isoko National Youth Assembly led by the President, Comrade Amos Ogbokor-Etaluku on Tuesday, January 12, 2021.)
The president of INYA, and his executives, let me formally welcome you once again to the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC.
Like I said earlier, I am aware you have been making efforts for this visit, and here we are today at the DESOPADEC, and I have listened attentively to you on the reasons why you came. I must thank you for all the encomiums that you have heaped on myself and the Commission, it will only spur us to do more because we will always stand by the truth, and we will always do that which will bring progress and development to our mandate areas at all times without fear or favour.
I am an Isoko man. I am a leader within the Isoko Nation in addition to being the Managing Director and the Chief Executive Officer of the DESOPADEC.
As the MD of DESOPADEC, I am privileged to have a lot of intelligence reports as to things that are happening around us, particularly the mandate areas. And as an Isoko leader, I am also opportune to know of the major events that are happening around the Isoko Ethnic Nationality. I am aware as of fact that indeed on the 13th of December, 2020, the INYA National election was held at Aradhe. I am also aware that the election was peaceful, and the election threw up a new executive. What I didn’t know was the full composition of the Exco. But I have been aware from reportage in the media that you Mr. President has emerged as the president of INYA. That is why after you came on board, and the interim administration made an introduction to me of the new henchman we commenced immediately… Well, I appreciate that you have appreciated the level of physical development that we have brought to the Isoko axis of our mandate areas. It is my wish that we will do more for the Isoko people and indeed every other ethnic nationality within our mandate areas.
To bring about development you need an enabling environment, and one key area for an environment to be enabling is peace. We need peace in every area to be able to access, to be able to think for them as to what they will need, to be able to interface with the leadership, and other stakeholders, to be able to take our projects to these places, and get our contractors to be able to be on site. Where there is no peace, where there is crisis, you cannot develop that area, and so, it is our desire, and now that we are here, we have to request from you because the youths are critical, and very necessary partners when you talk about peace and development.
There is a new wave in the Isoko Ethnic Nationality that is alien to us, where it’s coming from, I do not know, it is very alien to us. The Isokos are known to be brothers keepers. The Isokos are known to be good neighbours. The Isokos are known to be very religious, a pious one at that. The Isokos are known to be very sociable. We are known to be very civil. Yes, we may be republican but in all of this we are known to be very responsible and peaceful people. These are what are known of the Isoko people for ages past, but suddenly, in the recent past, the narratives have changed, and it’s very worrisome that the narratives are changing not for good but for bad. Now, when you talk of Isoko land, anytime you talk of Isoko, the next thing somebody wants to hear is whether one town is at war with another. Whether one student in one of the schools there have been plucked for ritual purposes. It’s an unfortunate narration, and that it’s happening in our time makes it more worrisome.
Every tribe is moving from crisis to peace, and the Isokos are moving from peace to crisis, it’s not normal, this is not encouraging, and this is not Isoko.
My dear youths, there is a problem in our land and we need to come together to find a solution to all of this. I am particularly addressing this issue because when you talk of war and crisis, it is the people within the youth bracket that are always employed by the various communities to go into these wars. It’s a big problem, and its already affecting the quality of persons, or taking away the friendship of certain persons. Citizens of the crisis-ridden communities are beginning to be disenfranchised.
In the run off to the primaries of my own party, the PDP, because of the crisis in Isoko South, some communities fighting against themselves; the very brilliant candidates, or aspirants that were coming out of from some of those communities were all set aside, not because they were not fit and proper to go for the race, but because we were fashioning out a way to make you know… so it can serve as a deterrent to make them feel the pain of the crisis, hence every aspirant in those areas were asked to drop off the race. The consequences are not too good, the signs are not good. We are by our own making denying ourselves of the services of some of the very brilliant brains in our midst because of our war mongering. Why would the Enwhe people and the Igbide people be at perpetual war? A gentle man was introduced there as Enwhe, you are Igbide, you are in the same exco, don’t you talk about it? Doesn’t it bother you? How do you drink and eat together, when your folks are at war at home, when the boys at home are being armed by the various communities to kill themselves over lands, land, a God given wealth, the lands that our fore fathers have been tilling over the time and handed over to us, and we will leave behind for the generations that are coming behind us? Must we kill ourselves? The other axis of Emede, they are at war with them again, houses are being burnt, people are being roasted, they were using trucks to carry corpses of people, and the social media is awash with all of these barbaric ways that we have turned out to be.
As an Isoko leader, I weep for Isoko people. I weep for our land. I have not actually resumed officially… I decided to see you people today to pass on this message, to harp on it very seriously because I think the time for peace is now! Thus, we must stop the carnage. We must stop the war. We can’t continue this way, you can’t allow yourselves to be used as youths. Yes, population is exploding, and land is not expanding but then, technology is making us to have more yields, better yield from less acreage that can still take care of the population, so why must we fight ourselves, why must we kill ourselves, why don’t we embrace technology; I am sad. When there is call from home, the first thing I want to ask is “I hope all is well, which town again?” Oleh and Ozoro, eleven persons were slaughtered, families, father, mother, and children slaughtered, pregnant women slaughtered. People who just went to farm, because we are fighting over land, how long would this continue? So Mr. President of INYA, I must say that I do not envy you because you are coming in at a time of crisis, and the task is much on you, on your shoulder to bring the youths together, to pass on the message, there is need for us to be at peace with ourselves. There is need for us to be at peace, you have to talk to your members, if it is possible move from clan to clan, from village to village, sensitise them, that they should not make themselves available as tools for this war. There is no amount of money that will bring back the life of every human being that you shed his or her blood. We do not need to shed blood. I am troubled. I am pained, that the Isokoland that is known to be very peaceful, the land where we practice so much Christianity, we pride ourselves that the Bible dropped there, we pride ourselves as good gospel songs singers, the early preachers were raised from the place, missionaries; that land is flowing with the blood of humans, this is not Isoko. I want you to think properly, I want you to work on this, I want you to carry out this advocacy. Go on an advocacy mission, move from clan to clan, you need to do this for me, you need to talk to your age grade, these people you are leading now, let them know that there is sanctity of life. This is sacrilege, you don’t take the life of another human being no matter the level of provocation. You must find a way out to talk peace. Mr. President I want to have your commitment on this. You can work with me and I will work with you on the way out to get this thing off. In terms of the logistics I will be available because I need peace in Isoko. We cannot bring development to the place in the way that place is now, contractors cannot go to site in a war torn place. Before you know it, other ethnic groups will just surpass you, nobody is going to wait for you. So the key issue I want to talk about today is just this peace. How do we turn the clock round again back to our normal peaceful dispositional ways we have been known with? In the time past when there are crises elsewhere they come to Isoko and take people to preach peace to the people but now we are at the receiving end, we have become a laughing stock; nobody listens to our kings again, the chiefs, they don’t listen to them, our women are running from their houses, and suddenly becoming refugees in their own land, a lot of them did not celebrate Christmas and New Year in their various homes. The problem in Igbide and Emede is not abating yet, every time people are running, it shouldn’t be so. Now that you are president of INYA, a lot are on your hands, you need to make the people believe you, and you need to make them have confidence in you, that there can be an Igbide man that can be of peace. We know that place to have very peaceful and wonderful leaders that have led the Isoko Nation, that are patrons of the Isoko Nation. Maybe, just fashion a way, whether you talking to the leadership of various communities, and then talk to the youths, may be you need to cry to the leaders, so that they don’t send the youths again, and the youths should not make themselves available to be sent to senseless wars. Land? Where are you taking it to? We met the lands, and we are going to leave the lands. Mr. President, you are very familiar with my aides, I want to say that I want you to have unrestricted access to me any time of the day, we need to work together, particularly, on this issue of finding lasting peace to the Isoko Nation, and I am saying that the cost implication, the logistics that will be needed, I want to partner with you in that aspect, so you must hit the road, let me see an action plan, let’s think through it, so that you can hit the road, and the time to hit the road is now! All the issues you have raised, support for you to complete your INYA house, taking you to His Excellency, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and remembering your organisation in terms of youth empowerments. All the issues are simple, and very doable, but I am going to hinge all of these on the key issue that I have put on the table. I want to see how serious you are in your ability to partner with us in this peace process, so that when you ask for my assistance in all of those areas we can flow seamlessly. You need to act now, my two lines are open, if you don’t have them I give them to you straight away, so that you can reach me at all times, reach all my aides, so that we can hit the ground running now. I don’t want to bore you with more talks, everything about my relationship with you people as at now is hinged on the peace process in Isoko. I am pained, the narratives out there is not good for us, please, help me, and let us do something to change the narrative. Please, I will greatly appreciate, if there is nothing else that we are able to achieve in your time, if we are able to achieve this peaceful coexistence that we always have, that will surpass any other thing. It is not just for the social media, I need serious work, genuine peace process that will cut across all strata, the elders, leaders, the women folk, and the youths who are there making themselves available as an army that can be sent at all time. If you block that while talking to the elders I think we will have some peace. And so Mr. President you are welcome, your visit is timely, I am happy that you came, and DESOPADEC under my watch will continue to cooperate with you because like I said from the beginning, that I am aware of the elections that produced you and your Exco and I know it was free, fair and credible, and very genuine and I know for you as Mr. President that I have always known all over the years, is that you have the capacity, and that is why I am saying that capacity I know of you before, this is the time to demonstrate it on the issue of the peace process. You are welcome Mr. President.
Our attention has been drawn to the existence of certain Facebook Account to be the Executive Director of Fenog Nigeria Limited, Mr. Matthew Tonlagha, created for the purpose of impersonating him with masked intentions of defrauding unsuspecting people online.
We wish to state that Mr. Matthew Tonlagha, neither owns a Facebook Account nor maintains any personal or business profiles on Facebook. He does not operate any account bearing his name or using his picture.
We hereby denounce the fraudulent, nefarious and unscrupulous impersonation and hereby alert the public that he has never solicited for, and will never solicit for funds as being propagated by these impostors.
We are utilising this medium in urging the public to be perpetually conscious of such ‘Facebook Account’ (s), and desist from following the impersonators and similar accounts. We further ask that you contribute in exposing and reporting them till they are arrested.
The General Public is warned that anyone who engages in any business or transactions with the said impostor(s) does so at his/her own risk.
Please be guided accordingly.
Signed: Chief Dennis Otuaro Ibe-uyadonwei of Gbaramatu kingdom
Biography of Ladi Kwali Dr. Hadiza Ladi Kwali was one of Nigeria’s foremost and most prolific potters, as well as the woman at the back of twenty naira note.
Ladi Kwali was born in the small village of Kwali, in present day Abuja, in about 1925. Some historians argued that she was born in 1920.
Her first name “Ladi” means “born on Sunday” while her surname “Kwali” is the name of her village in which she was born.
Ladi Kwali at work During her early years as a professional potter, Ladi Kwali was moved by her traditional and cultural environment to produce pottery pieces that were influenced by the Gbagyi tradition and accentuated with personal idioms.
She made large pots used for storing water and cooking pots from coils of clay, beaten from the inside with a flat wooden paddle, decorated with incised geometric and stylised figurative patterns.
The Emir of Abuja, Alhaji Suleiman Barau, fell in love with Kwali’s works and bought a whole collection.
In 1950, an English studio potter named Michael Cardew saw her work at the Emir’s palace, he was surprised by the level of her proficiency, as a result he stayed back for the purpose of spreading her work to the whole world.
Michael found the first pottery training in Abuja, where he recruited and trained men. She was the first woman to be enrolled at the Abuja pottery Center where she learned wheel throwing, glazing, kiln firing, production of saggars, and the use of slip, eventually assuming the role of instructor.
Meeting Cardew changed her life. Ladi Kwali became known all around the world and became Nigeria’s best known potter.
Her works were displayed on Nigeria’s Independence Day in 1960.
During her London famous tour, she showcased her pottery works and was honored the award of the Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.
Despite having no schooling, she was honored with a doctorate degree by the Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, Kaduna State in 1977; she was also a part-time lecturer and demonstrator at the university.
In 1980, the Nigerian Government (from the Cabinet Office of the Federal Republic of Nigeria) invested on her with the insignia of the Nigerian National Order of Merit Award (NNOM), the highest national honour for academic achievement. She also received the national honour of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 1981.
The Abuja Pottery was renamed the Ladi Kwali Pottery in the early 1980s. Ladi Kwali is the only woman on the Nigerian 20 naira note which has late General Muhammed Muritala on its front.
-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Mike SOGBOLO (North-East Bureau):
A soldier has been sentenced by the Nigerian Army to death for shooting his superior officer to the death.
The soldier, Private Azunna Mmadu-Abuchi, was arraigned before the 7 Division General Court Martial sitting in Maiduguri for killing an officer, Lt. Babakaka Ngorgi.
An offence which he was found guilty of and subsequently sent to death on Tuesday.
Delivering judgement, the President of the Court, Brig. -Gen. Arikpo Ekubi, said the prosecutor has proven his case beyond any reasonable doubt that the accused intentionally shot and killed Ngorgi, who was the Adjutant of 212 Battalion, Bama.
He said: “You intentionally opened fire and empty your magazine of nine rounds of ammunition on the deceased officer, Lt. B.S Ngorgi, who was the Adjutant of 212 Battalion, Bama, which led to his instant death.
“You betrayed the trust and confidence reposed on you by the Nigerian Army to ensure dignity and respect for human life.
“Your action is therefore viewed with displeasure and as affront to efforts of the present leadership of the Nigerian Army which emphasised the protection of human rights and professionalism in the discharge of its constitutional roles.
“While condemning your action of unlawfully killing the deceased officer in a gruesome manner, this court considers the plea in mitigation punishment by your counsel, the General Court Martial takes cognisance of all your counsel has said and the fact that you are involved in the Theatre of Operation.
“However, the gravity of the crime that you have committed against the innocent officer which by application is a crime against humanity and an attempt to drag the good name of Nigerian Army into mud must be sanctioned appropriately.
“The general court martial for the offence of murder as provided by section 106 of the Armed Forces Act is death. This sentence is to be carried out by firing squad.”
Ekubi also convicted four soldiers for manslaughter for their involvement in torturing a civilian, one Peter Apogu to death over a missing car battery.
He said based on their nature of involvement in the act, Sgt. Sani Ishaya who is the leader of the team is sentenced to four years in prison, Lance Corporal Fabiyi Bidemi is to serve two years while Private Adamu Abdulrashid and Private Musa Bala are to serve one year each.
The court also sentenced one Private Mohammed Kuru to three years in prison for accidental discharge at a civilian wedding ceremony that killed a 12 year-old-boy.
Deputy Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures in Nigeria and Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori has narrated his recent ordeal with the Covid -19 pandemic.
Oborevwori, who said he has been down with Covid -19, disclosed that he is now back on his feet, hale and hearty.
The Delta Speaker expressed gratitude to God, the state Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, the first family and Deltans for their support and prayers, saying Covid -19 is real and advised that people should not joke with it.
According to the Speaker, in a Press statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Dennis Otu; “Weeks ago, I experienced overt Covid 19 related symptoms and promptly self isolated before opting for Covid 19 test. The test result came out positive and medical officials began treatment. After some weeks and days of treatment, subsequent tests were ran on me. Am grateful to God to announce that the last results came out NEGATIVE”.
“As it is, the symptoms are gone and I am now hale and hearty. I want to specially thank God Almighty for restoring my health through the medical personel who are doing a great job”, he said.
The Speaker added that; “I also want to salute His Excellency the Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the first family and Deltans for their prayers, support and the unflinching demonstration of love to me in this trying time. Thank you all”.
Rt Hon Oborevwori used the opportunity to reaffirm that Covid 19 is real, saying that; I am a living testimony. I advise Deltans and all residents in the state to diligently observe the prescribed protocols by the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC); the Presidential Taskforce on Covid 19 and the state guidelines”.
He also said; “Avoid mass gatherings as much as possible; wash your hands regularly with soap and running water; wear face mask in public and keep social distancing. Once again, I emphasise that Covid 19 is real. Don’t joke about it please. Thank you all and God bless you. Stay safe”.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures in Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Suleiman, has felicitated with the Deputy Chairman of the Conference and Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for surviving Covid -19.
He wrote in a message to his Colleagues entitled ” Mixture of Sorrow and Joy” that; ” We wish to sadly inform Rt Hon Speakers that the Deputy Chairman of the Conference and Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly; Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori has been down with Covid-19. He tested positive some weeks ago and went for admission in a hospital in the State”.
“Accordingly, we are glad to announce that he has fully recovered from the Virus”, he added.
–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Michael EKOKORUWE:
The former chairman of Isoko South local government area, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, has commended Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor of Delta State, Isoko South elders and leaders, members of Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) Delta State and the National for their assistance during the past six years of his administration as chairman of Isoko South council area of Delta State.
Ikpokpo made the commendation at Uro Irri community, Isoko South local government area, during the thanksgiving church service held to commemorate two terms successful tenure he served as executive chairman of the local government area.
He stated that strict policy of administration gave credence to the success story. “We needed to implement strict policy in ensuring that only those who worked got paid. People were living in abroad and earning salary and some had two jobs, they took our names for evil, but I can’t fight because it is only on the altar that I have my feet and so I did not fear”.
Ikpokpo commended the immediate past chairman of Isoko North local government area, Hon. Emmanuel Egbabor. He said, both of them had similar experience as local government chairmen. “I and my brother did things same way, same policy for the past six years”.
He thanked the two Delta State House Of Assembly members representing Isoko South constituency 1 and 2, Hon. Kenneth Ogba and Hon. Ferguson Onwo.
While commending the President of ALGON, Hon. Kolade David Alabi and 17 other members of the association, Ikpokpo said, “It is time for the local government to grow in this country, and until the local government operates well, the country will remain in a circle, because that is the bases of development where value is added to citizens of the country”.
“Our governor does not take it for granted because he knows that if the local government succeeds, he also succeeds”. He maintained that the development of Nigeria is at the local government and grass root level.
The thanksgiving was attended by top government officials, among them was the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Chiedu Ebie, Commissioner for finance, Chief Sir Fidelis Okemor Tilije, Special Adviser to governor Okowa on Project Monitoring and Implementation, Hon. Johnson Erijo and Executive Assistant Protocol to Governor Okowa, Pastor Powell Ovuokeyen Tos, Esq.
Others are the Pere of Akugbene Mein kingdom, Pere Luke Kalanama V111, AIG. Hafis Inuwa, from Zone 8, Commissioner for Works, Chief James Augoye, Chairman Local Government Service Commission, Hon. (Deacon) Joseph Otirhue, parent of the former ALGON boss, Chief and Mrs. Dominic Luckie Ikpokpo, Hon. Eta Enahoro, High Chief Iduh Amadhe, High Chief Denis Etaluku and traditional rulers from Owhe and Irri communities.
Earlier, a valedictory session in honor of Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, was held at the local government council Oleh, Isoko South local government area and was followed by the formal handover to the Head of Personnel Management (HPM) of the council, Mr. James Kolo.
Ikpokpo while commending the former Vice Chairman and Secretary of the council, Hon Alex Ebah and Mr. Denis Obrogo, councilors and supervisory councilors, urged them to always say the truth as anyone can showcase themselves any day.
“I surrendered myself to those who can say the truth, because it adds value to the system and individual”, he said.
He commended the security agents for the love shown towards effective governance of the local government council. Ikpokpo was sober while commending the staffs that worked under him. “This job would not have been easy without you as you accepted my shouting and scolding, I wouldn’t have been who I am today”.
The highlights of the event was praise and worship session in appreciation to God, tagged “an Evening in His presence that featured Paulnams, Soloking and Elohozino, held at Ikpokpo’s residence, Uro Irri, Isoko South local government area.
Ikpokpo thanked God for fulfillment saying, “today six years after, I returned praise and glory to God for the journey that started since 2014. I give him thanks and praises, it’s not about the labour, but what God has used us to do”.
He commended everyone that attended and prayed for blessings. He urged the people to remain focused and serve God diliqently in the year 2021 as power belongs to God.
…Says He Left Behind Most Peaceful, Secured LGA …Inaugurates Healthcare Centre At Ozoro
The immediate past Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Council, Honourable Emmanuel Egbabor has urged politicians to always put their trust in God if they are to succeed in politics.
Egbabor disclosed this on Wednesday at the end of tenure thanksgiving service held at the Council pavilion, Ozoro.
He said he was grateful to God to have been the first Isoko North Council Chairman to serve for two terms of six years back to back.
He urged politicians and well-wishers to always look up to God in everything they do especially in their political aspirations.
He noted that only God can put someone in a position of authority as he tried effortlessly in the past to gain political ascendancy until he was sworn in as Chairman in October 2014.
He said power belongs to God and only He can give power referring to John 3:27.
“Today am excited and happy that am exiting as Chairman with my two legs complete, being alive and I can see clearly with my two eyes and all my children are complete.
“For keeping me for six years as Chairman of the Council is a thing of joy because not everyone that started this race completed it. What I have enjoyed in the past six years is just the grace of God.
“It was God who brought me into this position, my joining politics dates back to many years ago when I showed interest in contesting for Councillor under the defunct National Republican Convention (NRC) in 1991.
“I aspired for the House of Assembly in 2006 and 2011 until God made me victorius in 2014 as Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Council,” Egbabor said.
He appreciated Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for his support to his administration and called on the people of the area to continue to pray for him, his family and the state.
“I must thank all my leaders including Rt Hon Leo Ogor and Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay among others whom God used to put me in the position and i must specially thank our amiable Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, he has been there for me as a father, mentor and leader.
“To all my friends and political associates, let me admonish you to always look up to God if you want to succeed as a politician.
“People used to say that there is no way a politician can make it without relying on other powers, but I told them I will be a politician without stepping my foot elsewhere aside God.
“Today we are leaving debt free, we were able to clear the seven months salary arrears in 2018 through the assistance of the Governor.
“We thought we could do better in this second term but the issues of recession, COVID-19 pandemic, lockdown and ENDSARS protests came in to thwart our plans.
“But despite these challenges we were able to touch lives in the various communities by resolving all notty issues within our communities,”
He said that he is leaving Isoko North as one of the most peaceful and secured local government area in the state which to him is remarkable.
He stated that his administration, rehabilitated and graded roads across the local government area, renovated abbatoirs in Ozoro, Owhelogbo and built markets in Ozoro, Ofagbe, renovated markets in Otibio and Owhelogbo.
“We had free eye treatment and surgery in 2015 and 2017 for the first and second phases. I am happy because God has used us to touch lives, to heal people where a young girl of 17 years old who had lost her sight from birth received her sight in 2015.
“We have paid salaries up to date, we built Akperio market and the first ever permanent health centre in Ozoro with 30 beds, delivery room, and consulting rooms, drug and laboratory room among others. Am happy that this has been brought to fruition because it will help to reduce pressure on the General Hospital Ozoro,” the Chairman stated.
He cautioned indigenes to desist from destroying public buildings as the community remains the actual beneficiaries of the projects.
In a brief exhortation, Bishop Dr Sam Oyede of God’s Fountain of Life Bible Church Oleh urged Christians to thank God for being counted among the living.
He said it was God who kept Nigerians alive despite the COVID-19 pandemic and urged the people to always give thanks to God for all his benefits.
He stated that thanksgiving was an opportunity to recount all that God has done in the life of everyone.
“Today we are here to appreciate God in thanksgiving for where he has brought the out-going Chairman and us to where we are today.
“You are not here to thank God for this invitation, you are here to thank God because you are alive,” Bishop Oyede stated.
The thanksgiving service was attended by his Isoko South counterpart Hon. Itiako Ikpokpo, member representing Isoko South 1 Constituency Hon. Kenneth Ogba among other dignitaries from Isoko nation.
Delta State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has announced new resumption date for second term for all public and private primary and secondary schools in the state.
According to the State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Patrick Ukah, in a statement in Asaba, resumption of public and private primary and secondary schools earlier scheduled for January 11 has changed .
A statement indicated that boarders are to return on Sunday, January 17 2021 and classes will start on Monday, January 18, 2021.
While urging parents and guardians to strictly adhere to the new dates by preparing the pupils and students for school resumption, the statement added that resumption tests will take place on Wednesday, January 20, 2021.
Mr. Ukah reminded pupils and students that the resumption test will be part of their continuous assessment.
The Basic and Secondary Education Commissioner added that the Ministry regretted the inconvenience the postponement of the earlier dates would cause the pupils, students, parents and other education stakeholders in the sector.
January 6, 2021 shattered the myth of the United States of America as a model of democracy and brought shame, disgrace and odium to Washington. It was a day when thugs goaded by a sitting president, Donald John Trump attacked the Capitol, the building housing the chambers of the senate and House of Representatives. The legislators were there to certify the election of Joe Biden as president -elect which is normally a formality and does not attract media attention. But Trump who has refused to concede defeat in the November 3, 2020 election asked his supporters to storm the US congress and stop the certification of Biden as the next president. And the mobs and thugs obeyed their master`s voice and disrupted the activities. The legislators had to run for their lives and to me that is an equivalent of a coup. As one American senator puts it `as the darkest day of our democracy`. And yet another senator called it an everlasting shame.
Predictably, China which has been the butt of American criticism over its handling of Hong Kong mocked American democracy and the double standard and the inability of American allies to criticize the United States. It could be recalled that Russia called the American system of election as archaic and the urgent need for reform. To say the least, the Electoral College system that awards the electoral vote to the winner of a majority in a state is not a true representation of democracy. In 2016, Hilary Clinton won the popular vote but Trump won the electoral vote. The Americans must think outside the box and correct this undemocratic way of choosing their president.
Speaking about the invasion of the chambers of senate and House of Representatives by the supporters of Trump, the president-elect Joe Biden put the blame squarely at the doorstep of the sitting president, adding that it was not a protest but a clear act of sedition which is similar to a coup. Said Biden :`I call on President Trump to go on national television and to fulfill his oath and defend the constitution and demand an end to this siege. To storm the Capitol, to smash windows, to occupy offices of the United States Senate, rummaging through the desks, on the House of Representatives, threatening the safety of duly elected officials, it is not protest, it is sedition, it is insurrection`.
Whether the Grand Old Party (Republican Party) and the supporters of Trump like it or not, it would take a long time to wash this stain from American democracy. The four chaotic years of Trump has really rubbished the image of America and prove the lie that was the assertion of Ronald Reagan that `America is a like a city on a hill`. In other words, American was a shining example of democracy to the rest of the world. When the French people propelled by their revolutionary words of equality, liberty and fraternity donated the Statue of Liberty (that iconic image on New York harbour) , they never dreamt a Donald Trump schooled in the history of slave trade, racial intolerance and Confederates belief that some people were just inferior and should not be given the voting rights. Today America has lost the moral political right to pontificate to others about the fine grains of democracy. Trump is a statement that a powerful president could rubbish the American institutions. The remaining days before the January 20, 2021 inauguration of Joe Biden are really tension soaked and if not well handled, could do a more permanent damage to American democracy.
From day one, Trump was a danger to democracy and many Americans believed his American First policy, the euphemism for white American superiority, an echo of Ku Klux Klan. Al Gore, the vice president to Bill Clinton had a small margin to upturn George Bush Jnr lead in Florida State. But when the court ruled that the votes recounting should be stopped, he obeyed that in the interest of America and sent a congratulatory message to Bush Jnr. Al Gore as the president of the senate did not stop the certification of George Bush victory. This piece must also congratulate Vice President Mark Pence, as the president of the senate who resisted the pressure of Trump to upturn the results of the election, saying that he had no such constitutional power.
It would be recalled that Trump tried to stop Biden from contesting the election by calling on a foreign power to investigate the economic activities of Biden and his son, Hunter. He promised that if that was done, he could extend military and economic assistance to that country. This was a clear case of impeachment: a president trying to use his power against a political opponent. The House of Representatives impeached Trump but a Republican controlled senate acquitted him. Before the November 3, election, Trump said that he will never accept result that was not in his favour and he was faithful to that. As I write this article. Trump is yet to concede defeat. Not too long ago, he tried to put pressure on a state electoral official to change the result in his favour. Trump and his Republican gang filed about sixty court cases and they were all dismissed. He also approached the highest court, the Supreme Court and he was told point blank that he had no evidence to support the electoral claim of rigging. The invasion of the Capitol by Trump supporters was his last effort to change the election result in his favour. Senator Ted Cruz and his fellow delusional legislators will now know that you cannot change the will of the people as expressed in the polls.
The news is that the coup failed and the punishment for a failed coup under military dispensation is death. I do not really know the provisions of the American constitution for a failed coup and I hope that Trump and his supporters will face justice for their political crimes. As for those Nigerians who were demonstrating in favour of Trump, including a vocal former Minister, the truth of the matter is that America is not a land of justice and democracy. There are institutional prejudices against the blacks and Red Indians. There is too much deceit in the American system and it is like a white political tomb. The Americans must look inward and reform their archaic and chaotic electoral system which is everything but democratic. That reformation must start on January 20 and this is the political burden of Joe Biden.
Julius OWEH, a journalist, Asaba, Delta State. 08037768392
-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Mike SOGBOLO (North-East Bureau):
Boko Haram has invaded Geidam, one of the biggest town in Yobe State, leaving the residents fleeing.
Gaidam town, about 180 kilometres from Damaturu, the Yobe state capital, is the headquarters town of Geidam local government area.
According to sources, the insurgents who were believed to have taken position around the town at about 2pm on Wednesday, started shooting at about 6pm and got residents fleeing.
The sources, who could not give the number of casualties, said many houses, were set ablaze as residents ran into the bush.
Some other of the sources, said land soldiers and air bombardment later came came to uproot them.
A source said the town retained quiet at about 8pm when the insurgents were chased off by the military.
Meanwhile, Yobe state Governor, Hon. Mai-Mala Buni has directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to provide emergency support and take stock of destructions from the Boko Haram attack on the town.
Buni, while commiserating with the people of Geidam, described the attack as most unfortunate.
He said: “The attack came at a time when there is general improvement in peace and security across the state.
“The general improvement in security and support provided by government has given our people the opportunity to gradually resettle and reclaim their means of livelihood.”
He however said the attack would not deter government in its efforts to rebuild, reconstruct and rehabilitate communities initually destroyed by insurgency.
He commended the people of the state for their resilience and determination to rebuild their lives and move forward.
He assured that: “The government and People of Yobe state would continue to partner with the security agencies for the full return of peace and security across the state.”
In a similar development, SEMA officials have arrived Geidam and have taken stock of the destructions on private and public properties.
SEMA Executive Secretary, Dr Mohammed Goje, said the agency had commenced stock taking of the damages caused by the attack.
He said: “In line with the directives of His Excellency the Executive Governor of Yobe State Hon. Mai Mala Buni, l am leading the team to Geidam to assess the situation and see areas in need of immediate intervention to provide succour to the people.”
-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Michael EKOKORUWE:
Oleh Community recently re-elected Chief Believe Alakri as the President General of Oleh kingdom for three years term, during the annual delegates conference, held at Oleh Civic Center, Isoko South local government area of Delta State.
Chief Believe Alakri in a keenly contested election, pulled 164 votes to defeat Hon. Cheaver Ohoriemu and Evang. Erure with 6 and 2 votes respectively.
Other members of the executive elected are Mr. Agare William as Vice-President, Barr. Oriki Obaro as Secretary General, Mr. David Okunna, Treasurer and Umukoro Oghenekioja Great as Financial Secretary.
Others are Obede Akpofuno PRO, Igbosa Theophilus Assistant Secretary General, Mrs. Juliana Itewo Women Leader, Mrs. Victoria Azino, Assistant Women Leader, Mrs. Janet Urude Women Secretary and Mr. Gabriel Ubara as Representative of Eviewho.
Speaking with newsmen after the inuaguration, Chief Believe Alakri commended Oleh people for re-electing him and others, and promised to sustain peace and infrastructural development of Oleh kingdom, saying “we need absolute peace in Oleh Community so that we can build and add to what we have”.
“We need to maintain the standard than what we had done before. And what we haven’t done, we pray God should give us the strength to surmount all the obstacles, abnormally and uncertainty”.
Chief Alakri said, “I want Oleh to be more united than what it is today, I have been close to HRM William A. O. Ovrawah, the Odio-ologbo of Oleh and I am going to build on that relationship to ensure we can be more united to move the community forward”.
He maintained that, in every election there must be winner and losers and congratulated the people that contested and lost. He promised to reach out to them to ensure they move the community forward.
Earlier in his welcome address, Chief Alakri expressed satisfaction with the positive turn out at the annual delegates conference, which according to him is for the good of Oleh Community.
“I encourage all of us to keep the candle of love in the interest of Oleh Community burning to achieve the height and set goals of the Community”
Chief Alakri stated that, the gruesome killing of the Oleh 12 Indigenes at Ada farmland on 16th of October 2020, was regrettable, black and glooming day in the history of Oleh Community and called for intervention by every illustrious sons and daughters.
He urged the people to be united and peaceful even as security agents and the state government are on top of the situation.
“Necessary complaints and application have been made to the security agencies and the government functionaries are already doing their investigation with the intervention process of Delta State government”.
He reiterated that, His Excellency, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor of Delta State on the 22nd of December, 2020 constituted a seven-man Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the boundary dispute between Oleh and Ozoro communities headed by Hon. Justice Marcel Okoh, adding that Justice for the Oleh 12 Indigenes will soon be unvailed.
The delegates conference was supervised by the Chairman of Isoko South local government area, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, represented by the Secretary, Mr. Kola Obrogo JP.
In attendance was clergymen, Oleh Council of Chiefs, delegates from across Delta State and Nigeria, councillors representing ward 1 and 2 and a cross section of women and youths among others.
–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Michael EKOKORUWE:
The Apex body of Isoko nation, Isoko Development Union, Isoko traditional rulers and president’s general from the 23 clans of Isoko South and North local government areas of Delta State, yesterday visited Emede and Igbide warring communities and appealed for calm and urged the people to embrace peace.
Speaking to the people of Emede and Igbide communities during a town hall meeting at Emede and Igbide respectively, the President General of Isoko Development Union, Dr. Chris Akpotu, represented by the 1st Vice President, Prince Desmond Ogbaudu called on the people to embrace peace, noting that fighting over land which will exist forever is unreasonable.
Dr. Akpotu urged the people to stop escalating the crisis to other Isoko communities in the guise of looking for innocent Emede and Igbide indigenes that either resides or take refuge in such communities. He called on the leaders and parents of those perpetrating the act of criminality to caution their children.
While appealing for calm and restrain, the president general of Oleh, Olomoro and Irri communities urged Emede and Igbide people to sheath their swords and embrace peace, noting that the effects of war brings retrogression.
They stated that reports of blocking major roads and harassing innocent people on transit has become rampant in communities closer to both warring communities and appealed to the people to make the roads accessible and refrain from the act of carnage and criminality.
The president general of Oleh community, Chief Believe Alakri said, on 30th of December 2020, unknown assassins suspected to be armed robbers shot Emede boy along Emore road Oleh, just as one Mr. Ugase a trader from Igbide, was shot dead in his store along Emore road Oleh, by yet to be identified assailants.
According to him, the incident has created panic and tension in the area even as stores owned by Emede and Igbide people in Oleh kingdom are under lock and key. While condemning the ugly situation, he cautioned Igbide and Emede people to steer clear of criminality in Oleh, noting that anybody residing in the communities have right of protection.
On his part, the patron of Isoko Development Union, High Chief Iduh Amadhe described the situation as worrisome, adding that the town hall meeting is to know the remote causes of the recent crisis and how to find lasting solutions.
Amadhe maintained that final boundary to the farmland area; demarcating Emede from Igbide will resolve the dispute which started since 1985. He stated that the traditional oath and court verdict undertaken by both communities ought to have been followed by agreed land demarcation to finally resolve the crisis.
Responding, the former chairman of Emede community, Mr. J. Akibe and Oletu Ologbo of Igbide community, Chief Mike Osige, commended the delegation for the peace talk and promised to maintain decorum, adding that the message of peace is acceptable even as they said, only the truth will resolve the crisis.
HRM Edward Obukeni 1, Ovie of Igbide commended the delegation and said, Igbide is prepared to embrace peace and urged his subjects to remain peaceful as I.D.U, traditional rulers and the presidents’ general of Isoko nation are on top of the situation.
Africa Finance Corporation (“AFC” or “the Corporation”), the leading infrastructure solutions provider in Africa, today announces it has successfully secured a US$250 million tier-2 capital loan from U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC).
Formed in December 2019, DFC is the United States Government’s development bank established with a lending capacity of up to US$60 billion to provide financing for solutions to some of the most critical challenges facing the developing world. DFC expanded and modernized the tools of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC).
The facility to AFC, which consists of a US$250 million tier-2 capital loan, will strengthen AFC’s investment capacity by enabling it to provide competitive financing solutions for closing Africa’s infrastructure deficit. It also further complements AFC’s strategy of diversifying its investor base.
Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of Africa Finance Corporation, commented on the announcement: “Africa and the United States have enjoyed a longstanding partnership spanning several decades. Indeed, AFC has partnered with the US on several infrastructure initiatives, including the Power Africa initiative, and regularly receives investments from US-based investors in its Eurobond issuances.”
“This announcement therefore marks a natural evolution as the US Government seeks to play a greater role in Africa’s development by establishing a dedicated DFI. Crucially, this funding will also ensure the Corporation is able to continue fulfilling its objectives in the wake of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has placed a greater responsibility on development finance institutions in helping to drive a sustainable recovery across Africa.”
Adam Boehler, CEO of DFC also commented on the announcement: “DFC is proud to expand our relationship with a key infrastructure investor in Africa. This financing advances DFC’s strong commitment to Africa by supporting investment in the modern infrastructure that is essential to economic growth and expanded connectivity with the world.
-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Sunny A. DAVID:
Anambra State Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs, Indigenous Artworks, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Christian Madubuko has resigned his appointment. The former Commissioner Madubuko in his letter of resignation, alleged endemic corruption in the system, asking the Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, to rise up and be in charge of his government. He was at several times in three years, appointed as Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Commerce, Commissioner for Road, Rail and Water Transportation and lastly as Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs, Indigenous Artworks, Culture and Tourism. The resignation letter read in part, “It is my pleasure to thank all of you for the time we spent together in the service of our State. Indeed, it was three years of action-packed lessons both positive and negative. “In the cause of fighting corrupt, individuals holding the State revenue on the throat, all manner of frivolous petitions against me were written to the Governor accusing me of several misdeeds particularly destabilizing our party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance and advising the Governor to remove me before l do more harm to the party. “In several occasions, agents of darkness tried bribing me with millions of the naira. I arrested these criminals which was applauded by the Governor at the EXCO meetings. Within this three years, l have been redeployed to three key Ministries in the State as Commissioner. “With all these happenings, it became clear that when you fight corruption, corruption fights back in several forms. “I now understands clearly why Nigeria (nay Africa) can never develop like Europe. I came down from Australia to help in developing our State . “True to my believe, l worked tirelessly to actualize that dream. In working to meet the target, we setup mobile courts and jailed several revenue thieves and significantly raised the State revenue. “I fought various parasitic interests and jailed many of them. I stepped on toes risking my own life for the survival of the State. “Those toes l stepped on are now in the prowl for my life. I am no longer safe as l speak. “On three different occasions, l received baptism of fire by unknown gunmen/assassins and I was equally attacked severally at the Onitsha Main Market by the agents of the revenue criminals. “All these attempts were to stop me from exposing the people involved in siphoning the State revenues into their private pockets to the detriments of the Anambra citizens. ”I advise His Excellency, the Governor, to rise up to the challenges of leadership and take charge of his Government.a “This is because, at the end of it all, the Governor alone takes all the glory for things done right and blames for things done wrong. In summary, l have balanced all and brought all to mind and decided to leave.” he stated.
The Corona Virus Pandemic that took the entire globe with a storm is yet another inexplicable mystery about human existence on earth. It came without warnings and with a plethora of projections as to its actual sources and causes.
However, general consensus was that it was from Wuhan, an industrial town in China, in the year 2019. It was thereafter rechristened COVID-19. Some said that the actual meaning of the acronym (COVID-19) is Coronavirus developed in 2019, an indication that it was scientifically developed by humans ! That too is still a hazy dialectic conjecture.
What is still clear about the novel pandemic and its recent mutations in a second wave is that the existence of humans is precariously unsafe. Whether man made or natural occurrence, like many others ills that had befallen humanity, Covid-19 has continued to unearth the inexplicable quest of man to unleash excruciating pain on humanity while also surreptitiously tapping some condemnable benefits from such pain ! Man inhumanity to man !
Like the scenario of COVID-19, the sudden introduction on December 15, 2020 by the Nigeria Communication Commission (NCC) of a new regulation, titled “Implementation of New SIM Registration Rules”, took Nigerians with a flurry of confusion ! Apart from the earlier on passed law on November 7, 2011 (Registration of Telephone Subscribers) to ensure that the identities of mobile phone subscribers in the country were properly registered and documented in a centralised government database, the present directive tightened the noose a little stronger on mobile phone subscribers with the stern instruction to network providers to block any SIM card of a subscriber who failed to link his or her National Identification Number (NIN) with such SIM on or before December 30, 2020 ! Before that fresh directive, the NCC had on December 9, 2020 directed mobile phone network providers to suspend issuance and registration of new SIM cards in the country.
Although the NCC has reacted to the uproarious outcry of the public by extending the period of the fresh registration and given the opportunity for replacement of stolen, missing or damaged SIM cards, most Nigerians are not only wondering what the government stands to benefit from an exercise they see as punitive, they also see the Buhari Administration as being insensitive to the plights of Nigerians. They argued that the same identification number they were being made to provide under excruciating conditions amidst the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic in the country had been made available in various platforms, including the national identification card, voters card, driving licence, international passport, birth certificates, local and state governments certificates of origin, adding that the fresh directive was an index of government inability to coordinate its various activities into a uniformed database.
It is said that the purpose of the sudden directive for a fresh registration of subscribers was to ease surveillance and curtail crimes in the country. However, many Nigerians sneered at such flimsy explanations, maintaining that the ruling party was jittery about the opposition and was planning to use this new development to monitor the activities of the latter ahead 2023. They opined that the exercise was not directed at the rustic Nigerians, who may not understand what it means to be blocked from the telephone network, other than the inability to make and receive calls on their mobile sets, but at the elites, businessmen and some class of politicians who indulge in the sophisticated use of mobile phones in the country.
The latter argument appears to hold some water. Nigeria currently has a population of over 206 million residents and conservatively close to 180 million mobile phone subscribers in the country. So far, statistics available indicate that less than 40% of subscribers in the country have NIN. Though, the Federal Government has been rolling out measures, including online registration, through the National Identification Management Commission, to facilitate having the NIN, but with the short time given for the consummation of the exercise, very many mobile phone subscribers would be blocked from having access to the networks. Not only would this spell doom for the national economy, but would retard the sociopolitical wellbeing of majority of citizens of the country.
It was such realisation that impelled the Mexican authorities to repeal the mandatory SIM cards registration and destroyed all already registered personal data of Mexicans so officially stored in a database in the country, sequel to the directive of the European Commission (EU) in 2012 to all its affiliate states to provide evidence of actual or potential benefits from mandatory SIM cards registration measures. After a critical appraisal of all responses received, the EU concluded that there was not much recorded either in tracking crimes or cementing a common front for the EU states.
The United State of America and some other liberal democracies in the world also see mandatory registration of SIM cards as infringing on the personal privacy, association and movement of their citizens. There are many other subtle measures through which a country can monitor its citizens and ensure that they embrace positive attitudinal change, other than forcing them to throw their doors and windows open at all times through which government could glare at their privacy.
It is against this bleak reality that one would want to advise that the blanket time frame of registration for NIN and linkage of same to SIM cards by mobile phone subscribers in the country be lifted, making way for a continuation of the exercise, until all the already initially automated registered subscribers by their various network providers are captured in the NIN registration exercise. That is, if the exercise is necessary at all !
Johnson EBIGIDE, veteran journalist is a Columnist with Blank NEWS Online
In fulfilling his campaign promises of carrying the Focal Group along, His Excellency Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa has given a nod to the nomination of the Chairperson of Market Women & Men Association of Nigeria (Isoko South Chapter) Mrs. Blessing Aruoriwo Uzoge as the Vice Chairmanship Candidate for Isoko South LGA Council in the forthcoming March 6, 2021, Local Government Election.
This nomination is in keeping to the campaign promises the Governor and PDP made to focal groups for an all inclusive government.
The State President of the association Mrs. Kate Onah has expressed deep appreciation to Governor Okowa and the Entire PDP Leadership for being Promise Keepers and therefore pledged the association’s unalloyed loyalty and continued support to his administration.
Mrs. Blessing Aruoriwo Uzoge who hails from Oleh, holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Education from the prestigious University of Port-Hacourt. She is an acclaimed political grassroot mobilizer.
That year is gone. The year of the locust and the canker worm. That was the year full of political upheavals, social uprisings, inhuman vendetta, killings, kidnapping, you name it!
As bad as it was, it almost ended with over 300 of our youthful ones, missing in the harrowing forest of North west Nigeria. But God had mercy on us and graciously used Aminu Masari, local vigilante and Mìyetti Allah to wipe away our tears and brought our young ones back home to their traumatized families. How could we have been able to cope with such emotional torture, one more time?
At the very last hours, the incontrovertible firebrand critic and Priest from Sokoto, stirred the Hornet’s nest. Tirades of equal proportion, with a commensurate intensity, were fired at his direction, mostly from the inner recesses of the corridors of power. What a way to end the year!
But a new year is here. A year, fresh and promising. Promising to rid us of the much tears from the uncountable deaths, from deadly and unfortunate but avoidable scenarios emanating from insecurity, mayhem, youth brigandage and executive nonchalance.
It was a year that prompted up unusual antithetical solutions and antidotes. Bullets were chosen rather than round tables and official sycophancy was elevated to a place of honour, staring at shame and dishonor in the face with nostalgia.
It was a year, where large money were ferried into the thick bushes of the rain forests; not for Agriculture but to settle the new landlords of kidnappers and mysterious herdsmen. It was a year, in the life of a nation, full of sorrow, tears and blood.
But we’re here now. With a forlorn hope of a hard possibility of ever able to drive the bandits and kidnappers away from our arable forests in north west and also to purify the forests of Sambisa and Lake Chad, from the present habitation of cruelty that it has become.
As I sat down to ponder on so many issues bedevilling our Nation, especially in the recent past, my mind suddenly stumbled on Leah Sharibu. And the remaining unsung girls who probably, may not be heard of again.
I had to try by all means, to comfort myself with the original zeal of this administration vis-a-vis the people’s expectations concerning the fight against corruption and its tributaries. These present Drivers initially meant well. So what happened such that up until now, we’re still running around in circles?
So much on my mind. So many questions that may have no answers yet, but very important. Let us hope that this new year, the killings will stop. And there will be a gradual return to peace and the safety of life and property as it used to be, in those great days of innocence. Is anybody thinking aloud with me?
AustenAKHAGBEME is a Columnists with Blank NEWS Online
-Blank NEWS Online (Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates):
Show reiterates Ras Al Khaimah’s position as the GCC Capital of Tourism in 2021 The Ras Al Khaimah New Year’s Eve Celebrations dazzled the world with a 10-minute fireworks show that underlined the UAE’s message of hope, peace and achievements, as the world welcomed 2021 with optimism and renewed confidence.
Lighting up the sky over the Arabian Sea, the fireworks spectacle was organised by following all safety protocols. While guests, including UAE residents and tourists, at hotels in Al Marjan Island and Al Hamra Village watched the show on-ground, the event was also broadcast live on television channels globally and via social media channels, reaching millions of viewers around the world. People can catch up on the exciting show on raknye.com.
Abdulla Al Abdouli, member of the event Organising Committee, said: “The Ras Al Khaimah New Year’s Eve Celebration is indeed a tribute to the resilience and strength of humanity. We are sending a message of positivity to the world from here in Ras Al Khaimah, urging people to move forward with confidence after what was an unprecedented year. As we move into 2021 with Ras Al Khaimah chosen as the GCC Capital of Tourism, we aim to inspire people to visit the emirate and explore its wonders in full confidence.”
The Ras Al Khaimah New Year’s Eve fireworks show was indeed like no other with its location in the picturesque setting of the Arabian Sea, framed against the landmarks of Ras Al Khaimah’s natural landscape, the architectural edifices of Al Marjan Island and Al Hamra Village.
With 8,500 kg of fireworks used, the display spanned a length of 4 km and width of 3.9 km, creating oneof the brightest spots on earth. The festive panorama of colours was achieved from 81 launch pontoons that shot up 15,281 firework shells. The show took 20 days of offshore and onshore preparation with 30 technicians. More than 3 km of optical fibre was laid in addition to 6 km of control cables.
The 10-minute show was made all the more captivating with musical themes. With the countdown setting in, a great thunder and breathtaking display of colours followed to usher in the New Year.
-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Sunny A. DAVID (Editor N’East Bureau):
No fewer than 52 people escaped death in an accident involving six vehicles on Ihiala road, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State as the New Year 2021 began on Friday.
The State Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr. Andrew Kumapayi confirmed the incident to our correspondent in Awka.
He said the accident which occurred at about 2 p.m., was caused by speeding and loss of control.
“The multiple crash involved a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number AGB268ZT, a Mark Trailer with registration number GWA456YR and another Toyota Hiace bus with registration number NEN106XQ.
“Others are an Acura MDX Jeep with registration number NZM764LK, a Marcapolo Luxury bus with registration number AKD483XF and a Hyundai Jeep with registration number EG172SMK,” Mr. Kumapayi said.
He said that witness report reaching the FRSC indicated that the driver of one of the vehicles was speeding, lost control of the vehicle and rammed into the other five vehicles.
“A total of 52 people were involved in the crash – 38 male adults and 14 female adults. No life was lost.
“11 people out of the 52 sustained some degrees of injuries and were taken to Obijackson Foundation and Our Lady of Lourdes Hospitals in Ihiala for treatment by the FRSC rescue team.
“Meanwhile, the FRSC rescue team from Ihiala were on ground controlling traffic as the obstructions were been cleared,” the Sector Commander said.
While wishing the injured people speedy recovery, Mr. Kumapayi warned motorists against speed limit violation and urged them to drive safely and stay safe to avoid accidents.
Wife of the Governor of Delta State and founder of 05 initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, on Friday December 1, 2021 presented gifts and offered prayers to Baby Joy Ogwu Ogbeta, the first baby born in 2021.
The first baby of the year, 2021, weighed 2.6kg and was born at 12:15am on the 1/1/2021 at the General hospital, Asaba to Mr and Mrs Ogwu Ogbeta.
Dame Okowa, who was full of joy on seeing the first baby of the year, said the year 2021 is a special year and appreciated God for keeping everyone alive to see the New Year.
She commended the doctors and nurses who laboured for the delivery of the child and other children who were born on January 1.
Father of the baby, Emeka Ogwu, said he felt very great for the delivery of his first baby after four years of marriage and the special visit of the governor’s wife.
Mr. Ogwu, a business man, said: “I feel very great and happy. My wife and baby are alive and healthy. We have been married for four years before the baby came. This is our first child.
“I feel great and appreciate the governor’s wife for coming to see us. I also see that the structures in the hospital are wonderful. Here is a better place than what we have outside. We need more of this in the state,” Mr. Ogwu said.
Dependable sources revealed that from the registration of the baby for ante-natal till the birth of the baby which was through caesarian section, no money was collected from the family.
Also, all post natal care the child will receive at the hospital for the next five years will be free in line with the under five policy of the Delta state government.
The mother of the baby, Mrs. Mercy Ogwu-Ogbeta is a lecturer at the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka. The husband is from Aniocha South East hole the wife is from Sapele local government area.
Meanwhile, the governor’s wife had paid N1.139million for the hospital bill of 11 patients at the Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, the Delta state capital.
While making the presentation of the cash to the Chief Medical Director of the FMC, Dr. Victor Osiatuma, she thanked God for using 05 Initiative her pet project to meet the need of many people in the state.
She said with the payment, the freedom of the patients had started and they would enjoy the 2021 to the fullest. She added that the year would be freedom from all evils, noting that all evils of 2020 had been deleted.
In response to the gesture of the governor’s wife, Chief Medical Director of the FMC, Dr. Osiatuma said he received the news of Her Excellency’s visit to pay the bills with joy.
He said since the governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa came into power, the wife has never discriminated against federal or state hospitals in her effort to meet the health needs of the people of Delta state
According to him, since Okowa’s wife has been in the office of the state’s first lady, patients in the FMC have always been glad, leaving the hospital with her assistance.
He prayed for God to keep the family of the governor so as to continue to meet the needs of the people of the state.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Bashorun Askia Ogieh, has assured that the much anticipated Skills Academy by the Commission will take off in the new year.
Bashorun Askia said the commission in 2021 will focus on entrepreneurship and building skills for youths of oil bearing communities in the state.
The DESOPADEC boss stated this on Friday in a New Year message personally signed by him titled “A New Year and Hope Renewed”.
He said through the DESOPADEC Skills Academy, the commission will be building entrepreneurs and artisans that would be employers of labour.
Askia stated that era of youths waiting for nonexisting white-collar jobs was over, urging youths to take advantage of the forthcoming Academy to build a better life for themselves.
“On our part, the DESOPADEC under my watch looks forward to collaborating with vision-driven council leaders who will partner with us in executing our innovative programmes to improve the quality of life of our people. Programmes designed to equip our people with requisite business acumen and entrepreneurial wherewithal to venture into businesses will be vigorously pursued by DESOPADEC in the New Year,” Bashorun Askia said.
“Our primary target for the programmes are our vibrant youth and our womenfolk. We are poised to kick start the DESOPADEC Skills Academy, believing that the future belongs to the artisans and not youths who parade certificates, looking for non-existent white collar jobs.
“For the ready youths, DESOPADEC will make them employers of labour and confident and enterprising youths, through our Academy”, he said.
He urged the people of DESOPADEC mandate areas to be optimistic in the New Year, saying 2021 will usher good tidings as against 2020 that came with many challenges which posed threats to the human existence with the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic.
The DESOPADEC boss also charged the people to remain peaceful especially in the forthcoming March 6 council elections, adding that development will only thrive in an atmosphere of peace.
According to him, “Now that we have successfully berthed into 2021 through the mercy and grace of the Most High, we should march on with renewed hope that the New Year holds great prospects for us and our mandate communities.
“By the peaceful conduct of the recently held party primaries ahead of the forthcoming local government elections, we have set the stage for a peaceful transition to a new leadership in the councils.
“DESOPADEC, as always thrives better where peace and tranquility reigns. I urge you all to sustain the spirit of the peaceful conduct of the primaries to ensure the emergence of credible and responsive leadership after the March 6, 2021 council elections.
“I must state, for emphasis, that the Commission has enjoyed the partnership and cooperation of our mandate areas, giving us the atmosphere to impact positively and to deliver our intended vision and mission. For that, we are most grateful and crave further mutual collaboration for the benefit of our people and communities.”
Bashorun Askia assured that the commission will continue to priotise the welfare of staff and operate an open-door policy that will engendered development of its host communities.
He also enjoined the people to continue to support the administration of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in its quest to uplift the living standard and infrastructure of the state.
“Our staff have been amazing. Our successes since coming on board are testimonials. For that, Management has resolved to reciprocate by ensuring that all staff welfare policies, including deserved promotions, are effectively attained. As a listening Board, we expect that our shortcomings, if any, are promptly raised for immediate remedies.
“I urge you to continue to support the administration of His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor of Delta State, who has given immense support to the Commission.
“I am optimistic and confident that with the support of our mandate communities, the New Year will herald greater prosperity for our people”, he further stated.
–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Mike SOGBOLO (Editor N’East Bureau):
Yobe State Government has said 3,000 new teachers would be recruited in 2021 to address the acute shortage of teachers.
The government who had earlier declared a state of emergency in the education sector and has equally hosted education summit to proffer solutions to the perennial problems in the education sector, has completed seven model in Damaturu, Gaidam, Gashu’a, Nguru, Potiskum and Buni-Yadi in the course of 2020 with construction work on seven other mega schools currently ongoing.
Addressing a press conference on the achievements of the state government in 2020 on Thursday, the Commissioner for Information, Mallam Abdullahi Bego disclosed that the model schools will start operations in the first quarter of 2021
On some of the other achievements in the education sector, Bego said there has been construction of more schools and renovation of existing ones in all the 17 local government areas of the state, including fencing of five model primary schools in five councils.
He also said 69 students were sponsored to law school in the course of the year and 204 Yobe Youths sponsored for Undergraduate Courses to India and Asian countries.
Bego said that reformation of Almajiri Education was pursue and the renovation and equipping of lecture hall for university of Maiduguri remedial programme at GGC Damaturu was commenced.
He disclosed that major achievements and turnarounds were witnessed in all the other sectors in the state.
-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Sunny A. DAVID (Editor S’East Bureau):
In the spirit of giving and motherly love, the wife of Atani Monarch, Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, Odua Nwanyi Ngoddy organized a Christmas get- together for the children of Atani and others from neighbouring towns.
Odua Nwanyi in a goodwill message, at the Central School, Atani said the occasion has been an annual event for
several years used to show compassion and love for children in the area, stressing that it is not because she is a wife of a traditional ruler or she has money more than others in the Community.
“Despite the fact that I live in overseas where corona virus is ravaging, and instead of managing how to escape the pandemic with my family, l continued to conteplate on how to feed the Atani Children at home. It is a wonderful experience to host our children today,” she said.
She prayed for Gods’ protection and wished the children good health, long life and success in their various carriers.
In his speech, the traditional ruler of Akili Ozizo, His Royal Highness, Igwe Lawrence Oduah described Children as the future hope, stating that it is worth doing to gather the Children at intervals to give them food and make them happy.
The Monarch poured accolades on Odua Nwanyi Ngoddy and her husband for showing their spirit of philanthropy to the Children of Atani and entire Community, as he prayed God to bless them.
Also, Lady Victoria Ngoddy “Eziogilibuno” who organised this year’s get together on behalf of Odua Nwanyi Ngoddy disclosed that she was sent by Igwe and her wife, Odua Nwanyi to host the children and ensure they were well cartered for.
Lady Victoria Ngoddy disclosed that Igwe and his wife could not return to Nigeria this season as usual due to out break of second wave of corona virus pandemic.
She explained that the occasion was successful and praised Odua Nwanyi Ngoddy and her husband for their kindness towards their ppeopl, recalling that Odua Nwanyi Ngoddy donated food items to the community during the lockdown era.
Similarly, an indigen of Ossamala and founder of Hope Foundation, Dr. Elizabeth Obiora “Ugocharacha” noted that what Odua Nwanyi is doing every year for the children of Atani is worthy commendable, urging other people to emulate her.
Earlier, the Parish Priest of St. Stephen Catholic Church Obosi and an indigen of Atani, Rev. Fr. Eloka Nwachukwu who conducted the opening prayer asked God to guide Odua Nwanyi Ngoddy and her husband, Igwe Augustine Azuka Ngoddy and continue blessing them.
He praised the couple for showing love to both the Children and adults of Atani community every year.
The Cleric advised the Children to be friend of Jesus Christ, reminding them that a person who is a friend of Jesus does not fight, steal or insult his or her elders.
According to him, “A friend of Jesus Christ is a person who goes to school and church on time and regularly, a person who listen to his or her parent’s advise and respects elders.”
L-R. Lady Victoria Ngoddy, Igwe Lawrence Oduah, Rev. Fr. Eloka Nwachukwu with others during the cutting of the cake for the party.
-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Michael EKOKORUWE:
The chairman of Isoko South local government area, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, has lifted the 24hours curfew and suspension of HRM Edward Obukeni 1, Ovie of Igbide and HRM Johnson Eweri 11, Ovie of Emede Communities, at a security meeting held at Oleh, Isoko South local government area of Delta State.
Ikpokpo stated that leaders of both communities have agreed to lead the peace process and commended representatives from Igbide and Emede for the wisdom, noting that the peace dialogue between the communities is positive.
While describing road block as act of carnage and criminality, Ikpokpo urged leaders of Igbide and Emede to ensure that the roads are accessible, adding that the police will arrest any person blocking the road.
He said, resolutions entered into by Igbide and Emede communities at a joint meeting of Isoko Development Union, IDU, clan Presidents General and representatives of both communities held on the 21st of December at the IDU secretariat, showed positive response of the peace dialogue.
The local government boss commended the traditional rulers saying, “the progress report is good, this what is expected and we are happy that they have done well and hope that they will do more to bring the elements involved to book”.
He urged the traditional rulers to take initiative of the peace process and manage it accordingly, adding that the peace committee setup will meet to ensure that total peace is restored to both Communities.
Ikpokpo reiterated the importance of peace among the people and urged them to go about their normal duties, stressing that the situation has been accessed and hopeful that permanent resolution shall be taken as the peace process continues through dialogue.
Responding on behalf of both Communities, High Chief Mike Osighe, the Oletu Ologbo of Igbide kingdom said, Igbide and Emede communities have agreed on total cease fire and assured that the resolution reached is acceptable, noting that the youths have maintained decorum for lasting peace in both Communities.
-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Mike SOGBOLO/North-East:
Seven hunters were blown apart by landmine about 30 kilometers away from troubled Maiduguri.
The landmine, which scattered the vehicles of local hunters on the hunt for suspected Boko Haram who had hustled cows from areas in Jere local government area of Borno, also got 19 other hunters injured.
Both Senator Kashim Shettima, representing Borno Central in the Senate and Hon. Ahmed Satomi representing Jere Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives confirmed the incident on Wednesday.
Satomi said: “It was sad that seven local hunters were loss to a landmine with 19 others injured.”
He said: “Hunters on patrol after receiving an alert that Boko Haram had carted away some cattle from some villages decided to pursue them, but unfortunately them hit a landmine in their pursuit.
“On their way after a village call Kayamla in Konduga after Alau Dam, they hit a landmine and their vehicle got broken and they had to call for reinforcement from a nearby unit.
“The reinforcement came with a vehicle loaded with about 20 local hunters which moved to support the first vehicle and on their way they hit another landmine which scattered their vehicles killing seven and injuring 19 others.”
He disclosed that the incident happened about 30 kilometres away from Maiduguri, the state capital.
One of the survivors, Abubakar Gambo, had told journalists in Maiduguri that they were 19 onboard their patrol truck when they heard a loud bang.
He had explained that: “We were on patrol along Kayamla route when one of the rear tyres of our Toyota Land Cruiser truck exploded.
“We thought it was a common tyre burst, but we later discovered it was a bomb blast.”
He has also said while they were trying to change the tyre, they spotted some Boko Haram gunmen creeping towards them, which made they to begin to fire in their direction while calling for a backup.
He said the Boko Haram terrorists afterward fled and left some rustled herds of cows behind.
Gambo said: “Our backup team arrived and began to chase after the insurgents who had already gone far into the bush. As they were making their way back, the vehicle ran over a massive bomb that exploded and killed nine of them instantly, while nine others were injured. I saw their vehicle as it was tossed up into the air.”
The Borno state Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Sa’ina Buba, while confirming the incident that happened on Tuesday during the funeral of the seven slain hunters in Maiduguri, said: “We were saddened by the death of these gallant hunters who have sacrificed their lives to protect us.
He said the corpses were evacuated on Tuesday and the injured were taken to the hospital.
Blank NEWS Online can authoritatively report that the Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, has ordered a new partial lockdown of all public activities across the state, as a result of the second wave of COVID-19.
The new directive is contained in a circular dated December 24th, 2020 which was issued and signed by Mr Chiedu Ebie, the Secretary to the State Government, SSG.
According to the circular, all public gatherings have been reduced to only 50 persons while night clubs, bars, recreational centres are not exempted.
Read the full text of the circular below:
“While wishing Deltans and residents in the State the compliments of the season, the State Government wishes to remind all of the exigencies that have been imposed on the world at large by the COVID-19 pandemic for several months now. And based on the advice of medical experts on the resurgence of a second wave of the pandemic which is reportedly more virulent, there have been serious health concerns across the globe.
“In view of this development, and in line with the recent Federal Government advisory, His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor of Delta State has directed the general observance of a number of COVID-19 protocols and guidelines which include the mandatory use of face masks, hand washing or use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers and social distancing.
“In the meantime, all night clubs are closed with effect from 25th December 2020. Furthermore:
“All informal and formal festivity events including weddings, burials, conferences, congresses, office parties, concerts, seminars, end of year events shall be restricted to not more than 50 persons.
“All bars, lounges, restaurants, eateries, event centres, cinema houses as well as recreational venues are to operate at not more than 50% capacity.
“Overloading of vehicles should be discouraged and it is mandatory for passengers or commuters to use face masks while drivers should ensure good ventilation and sanitary condition of vehicles.
“All public spaces should run on 50% capacity basis; virtual meetings should be encouraged for business purposes and among social groups. All government staff below grade level 12 are to proceed on extended Christmas holidays till further notice
“All malls, shopping centres, markets and other business centres must adopt the earlier mentioned protocols and guidelines in the use of face masks, hand washing and social distancing.
“All gatherings linked to religious activities are to operate at not more than 50% capacity of the facility in use and ensure mandatory use of face masks, hand sanitizers and social distancing. Where possible, multiple services should be adopted.
“Public and Private Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Institutions are to remain closed till Monday, 11th January 2021.
“All persons above the age of 60 years and/or with comorbidities are to be encouraged to stay at home and avoid crowds.
“Members of the public are advised to call the toll free numbers below to report suspected COVID cases: 08031230480, 08031230481, 08031230528, and 08031230529.
“Let this be a civic duty at this time as we look forward in hope for a better year 2021. On our part, we will continue to monitor the impact of this second wave through the Ministry of Health and additional guidelines will be issued when considered necessary.
“Relevant Taskforce Teams and Security Agencies have been directed to ensure compliance as we continue to engage all critical stakeholders including communities and religious leaders to assist in sensitizing their followers, kinsmen and the general public to comply with these guidelines.”
-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Mike SOGBOLO/North-East Chief of Bureau:
Sweden has donated N460 million towards fighting acute malnutrition in the North East, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has said.
A statement by UNICEF on Tuesday said Sweden is partnering with it to end malnutrition in the North East.
It disclosed that it has received N460 million (SEK 10 million) contribution from the Swedish International Development to stop acute malnutrition in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states.
UNICEF noted that the funding will support the expansion of services targeted at preventing and treating severe acute malnutrition induced by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The statement further added that the contribution will help protect children from other opportunistic infections that may arise from suppressed immune system. “With 690,090 acutely malnourished children, the three north-east states of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe constitute the greatest burden of the 2.7 million acutely malnourished children in Nigeria.
“Affected by armed conflict, displacement, limited access to farmland and high prices of food items, children, families and communities in the region already are among the most food insecure and malnourished in the world.”
According to UNICEF, measures to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has further increased the incidence of malnutrition in children in the three north east states, noting that the funding from Sweden will boost outreach programmes to become more effective.
UNICEF said: “Estimates from the Nutrition and Food Security Surveillance (NFSS) conducted in November 2020 put the acute malnutrition prevalence at 6.2 per cent in Adamawa, 10 per cent in Borno and 12.3 per cent in Yobe. NFSS estimates put severe acute malnutrition prevalence at 0.6 per cent in Adamawa, 0.9 per cent in Borno and 2.1 per cent in Yobe.”
It added that: “Through the use of community mobilisers, the SIDA funding will allow for swift identification, referral and treatment of severe acute malnutrition cases in children in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States. Frequent and increased micronutrient supplementation both at the community and referral centre levels will prevent and treat malnutrition in children, thereby providing them with a healthy start in life’.”
-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) – From Michael EKOKORUWE:
Hon. Victor Asasa has emerged consensus candidate for Isoko South local government area under the Peoples Democratic Party as Delta State local government election holds on 6th of March 2021.
While announcing result of the primary election held at Ekpre Otobo Hall, Oleh, Isoko South local government area, the returning officer, Sir Kerry Jackson said, Hon. Victor Asasa polled 116 votes to become sole candidate.
Kerry stated that the delegates unanimously picked, voted and affirmed Victor Asasa as the choice of the people.
He commended the delegates of the party saying, “there is solid PDP family in Isoko South local government and I believe absolute victory during the forthcoming election.”
The chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, Isoko South local government area, Odio Chief Godspower Obaro stated that the choice of Hon. Victor Asasa was the delegates unanimous decision, just as the primary election was conducted peacefully. “As chairman of the party, I am so happy for the peaceful primary election and I congratulate Victor Asasa for the victory.”
He urged members of the party to remain united and prepare for victory on the 6th of March 2021, noting that delegates were from various wards of the local government area and the party has done well.
While appreciating members of the party for affirming him as the consensus candidate for the chairmanship position of Isoko South local government, Hon. Victor Asasa commended the delegates for the confidence reposed in him and love shown from the PDP family saying, “I am overwhelmed, this is show of love from the family, the people queued behind me with joy and said, this is our candidate”.
“I appreciate and I tell you that victory will come in due course, I am confident that people from other parties are making arrangement to join PDP”.
He urged members of the party to be committed as victory will come on 6th of March 2021, just as he promised not to disappoint the people.
On his part, the Chairman of Isoko South local government area, Sir Itiako C. Ikpokpo, commended members of the party, the leaders of the party, especially those that agreed to step down for Asasa to emerge consensus candidate and assured of peaceful election on 6th of March 2021.
Sir Ikpokpo noted that PDP is known for vigorous campaign and stressed that with prayers, counseling, support and guardian from party leaders, winning the election will be easy.
Mr. Atano Efe, electoral officer for Isoko South, representing Delta State independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC), commended delegates for the peaceful conduct of the local government chairmanship primary election.
He urged the electorates to prepare and be committed to whoever they will vote for on March 6th 2021, and assured of the Commission’s preparedness.
Olorogun Lucky Oghene-Omoru has received the prestigious awards of Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultant (FIMC) and Certified Management Consultant (CMC).
The awards were conferred on him by the Council of the Institute of Management Specialists, United Kingdom (IMS Nigeria Chapter) at a well-attended Award Ceremony/Certification Seminar held at Abuja.
The IMS Certifications are globally accepted. It is listed in British Qualifications-the British Council’s reference book, published by Kogan Page Ltd. It is also listed in the BTEC Higher National Professional Recognition & Progression Directory and is on the UK Register for Learning Providers (Provider Reference Number 10035444).
The IMS is a member of Confederation of Professional Awarding Bodies (COPAB)
In an interview with newsmen in his office, Olorogun Lucky Oghene-Omoru who is the current Director General of the Delta State Investments Development Agency (DIDA) stated that the double awards of FIMC and CMC by the International Council of Management Consulting Institutes permits him to practice Management Consultancy Services worldwide.
He stated further that the Award Ceremony/Certification Seminar on leadership and management provoked and inspired high performance leaders in business and society to achieve excellence in their various fields.
According to him the programme brought together business and society leaders to interact, network and share ideas and best practices in business, management and leadership and exchange ideas and opinions about practical management challenges/experience.
The Director General thanked His Excellency Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for providing the enabling environment for individuals to build their capacity stressing that it has given him the opportunity to advance his career.
He promised to bring his wealth of experience and knowledge to bear on his mandate as the Director General of the Delta State Investments Development Agency.
Pledges DESOPADEC Partnership, Cooperation With Leadership Of Isoko Development Union
–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) – By Albert OGRAKA:
The Udu of Isoko Nation, Odio Bashorun Askia Ogieh, FCNA, CrFA, has congratulated the newly elected executive of Isoko Development Union (IDU) and hailed the emergence of Professor Chris Akpotu as President General of the apex social cultural organization of Isoko nation.
Bashorun Askia, who is Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), expressed excitement about what the future holds for the Isoko people under the leadership of Professor Akpotu.
He however told the new President General that despite the huge challenges and daunting tasks ahead of the Union, he should be a “fearless, innovative and assertive leader that would project the Isoko nation in the light of peculiar deprivations.”
“I urge you to tackle without rest, every form of marginalisation being suffered by every son and daughter of Isoko land.”
In a personally signed congratulatory letter, addressed to the President General of IDU, Professor Chris Akpotu and titled, A New Dawn For Isoko Nation, Bashorun Askia said:
‘It was with immense joy and a reinforced sense of optimism that news of your emergence as the President General of Isoko Development Union reached me.
“First, the seamless process of the conduct of the election in a peaceful and convivial manner demonstrated the fact the Isoko people look up to you to navigate them through the intriguing challenges that lie ahead in terms of development, politics, culture and tradition, and the role of Isoko people in the dynamics of national politics.
“Secondly, I am intrigued with your rich pedigree in innovation and inventiveness, being an internationally acclaimed scholar and researcher in Entrepreneurial Economics and Human Resources, an area DESOPADEC is pursuing with an extra vigour.
“I am very excited about what the future holds for the Isoko people under your leadership in the coming years. Bestowed on you is an onerous task and I would therefore implore you to be the fearless, innovative and assertive leader that would project the Isoko nation in the light of our peculiar deprivations. I urge you to tackle without rest, every form of marginalisation being suffered by every son and daughter of Isoko land.
“Let me assure you that the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission will continue to partner and cooperate with the leadership of Isoko Development Union to ensure that justifiable and fair due of Isoko nation are accomplished at all times. My office is open to all collaborative efforts geared towards this end.
“Development thrives better in areas devoid of rancor and where peace reigns and, therefore, one of your major tasks would be to ensure the continued collective unity and tranquility in Isoko land.
“The time to do these start now. Congratulations!”
