Apologize to Ndiomu, group urges blackmailers over false allegation against him

Apologize to Ndiomu, group urges blackmailers over false allegation against him 

Portharcourt___ Some major stakeholders from the Niger Delta have called on groups and individuals who have been engaged in serial petition writing and promoting negativity on the media and other public platforms to render unreserved apology to Major General Barry Ndiomu, Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme for their months of needless attacks.

The call is coming against the backdrop of the successful take off of the PAP cooperative scheme and the resuscitation of the aviation programme which has been moribund for eight years as well as other initiatives and policy direction.

In a statement issued in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital the Niger Delta Peace Advocates (NDPA) and Grassroots People Agenda (GPA) said General Ndiomu has been vindicated from all the accusations and name calling by those un-informed people whose stock in trade is to pull down any influential person from the region they cannot manipulate.

The statement signed by Ebitimi Kurowei, chairman and Amangiye Thomas, Secretary, NDPA and Mimi Ochuko and Tare Ifiemi chairman and publicity secretary of GPA explained that General Ndiomu has shown capacity in his one year in office as exhibited in the various initiative drives and deliberate policy direction which are adding value to the lives of ex-agitators and people of the Niger Delta in general.

The stakeholders noted that “What the Niger Delta requires more than ever before is to harness the large idle youthful population into a proficient entrepreneurial and productive force with different skill-sets to drive economic change in the region and beyond. The large population of employed youths in the region, particularly those able-bodied male from whose lands the wealth of the country comes from, could be a ticking time-bomb that should be avoided”.

They stated that the Presidential Amnesty Programme under the leadership of General Ndiomu is doing things right having engaged with all relevant stakeholders on the way forward, what the Interim Administrator has succeeded in doing is a product of those consultations to change the lives of willing ex- agitators for good.

The groups said “It is however unfortunate that in the Niger Delta there are groups of people who intentionally antagonize public and appointed officers from the region by consistently posting false and offensive contents about them if things are not done their way. We know General Ndiomu is a disciplined 

officer with a high pedigree who has refused to compromise against all the name calling, petitions and the media attacks.”

The groups said they would work closely with all like-minded stakeholders from the region to rally round General Ndiomu to see to the success of the legacy projects, particularly the cooperate scheme which ex-agitators have confirmed has taken off with most of those who have gone through the process have started receiving their loans.

“The Interim Administrator needs the collective support of ex-agitators and stakeholders from the region and having seen his drive and vision and being witnesses to his sincerity of purpose and that he meant well for the region, it would only be proper for those who have maligned him unjustly, should render unreserved apologies to him” the statement added.

Kingsley Kuku Returns Home after 8 Years of Self Exile in the US

Kingsley Kuku Returns Home after 8 Years of Self Exile in the US

Akure_____ A very popular Niger Delta ljaw born human rights activist, philanthropist cum politician, Hon.

Kingsley Kimibradigha Kuku, fondly called 3K who was a former Coordinator of the Federal Government Presidential Amnesty Programme has made a surprise triumphant entering to his home town, Arogbo Community in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State, after eight years of self exile in the United States of America.

It will interest you to note that Kuku went on hiding few months after President Mohammadu Buhari was sworn-in to office on 29th May, 2015 after President Goodluck Jonathan lost re-election bid, and the subsequent hunting of his personality by the then Buhari led adminstration.

He was spotted at Arogbo on 28th September, at the occasion of the 2023 Arogbo lbe Day celebration, after over eight years of hiding in the US.

Kuku was appointed the Chairman of the Presidential Amnesty Programme for ex-agitators in the oil-bearing communities in the Niger Delta, during President Goodluck Jonathan administration.

He was a pioneer member of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), a notable ethnic rights group in Nigeria; and was the second spokesman of the council.

After his involvement with the Ijaw Youth Council, Kuku contested and was elected as member of Ondo State House of Assembly and thereafter became the chairman of the house committee for a period of four years.

His return has bring a renewed hope for the ljaw people because he remains a pilar of accelerated developement as well as human capital empowerment master in the Niger Delta Region.

He was awesomely welcomed home by his people, including the Agadagba of Arogbo lbe ljaw kingdom, Chief. Bibopre Ajube aka Sooth at sight, Barr. Bekewei Ajuwa, Jking Alfred lzon-ebi and the ljaw youth council worldwide.

IYC Frowns at Tinubu Over Sack of ljaws in NNPCL, Vows to Protest

IYC Frowns at Tinubu Over Sack of ljaws in NNPCL, Vows to Protest

Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide 

Press Release 

27/09/2023

IYC To President Tinubu: We Will Resist Sack Of Ijaws In NNPCL With An Attempt To Employ Only Northerners And Yorubas 

We are compelled as leaders of Ijaw nation to issue this press release today due to certain actions deliberately taken against the Ijaws in the Nigerian State by the President Bola Tinubu led Federal Government of Nigeria. 

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, an umbrella body covering all Ijaw Youths in Nigeria and across the world have read on the pages of newspapers and other broadcast outlets in Nigeria weeks ago the purported sack of Ijaw sons and daughters in the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited over alleged cooked and manipulated story of retirement. 

This forceful retirement of Ijaws in NNPCL is something that we will resist with the last drop of our blood. We see this as an attempt to exclude the Ijaws from the scheme of things and a well hatched plot to only employ Northerners and Yorubas in NNPCL. 

To us as a people, while we love Nigeria as a country and will be ready to do all within our powers for a united one Nigeria, we will not accept any attempt to unjustly undo sons and daughters of Ijaws occupying such sensitive offices in the Nigerian State, it is the promise of IYC that we will not allow this injustice to fester.

The Ijaws cannot continue to suffer the brunt of oil and gas exploration activities in Niger Delta and could be reduced and prevented by the Federal Government of Nigeria by not allowing their sons to have a say in the oil sector. We cannot be punished as a people for feeding the country. 

However, it is in the best interest of the Federal Government of Nigeria led by President Bola Tinubu to direct whoever that is in charge to urgently reinstate Ijaws that were sacked recently in the NNPCL without any offence. This country belongs to all of us. 

Their urgent reinstatement is in the best interest of Nigeria as anything other than this within few days from now will lead to total shutdown of NNPCL activities across the country. We cannot continue to be feeding Nigeria but will be begging for crumbs.

Nigeria is a multi ethnic nation hence whatever the Federal Government is doing must be a true reflection of Federal character. For obvious reasons, the NNPCL is gradually becoming a northern empire. 

The Ijaw Youth Council will also resist the purported buying of AGIP oil compay by OANDO without making it public for qualified Ijaws and Niger Deltans to bid for its take over. 

Before now, the Italian company (AGIP) has contributed a lot for the Ijaw people and her communities via its  cooperate social responsibility policy. AGIP is like the life wire of our people. The Ijaws and Niger Deltans must be given the opportunity to participate fully in the oil industry. 

The assurance is that, if these issues are not reversed quickly as soon as possible, the entire Niger Delta community will be left with no other choice but to shutdown NNPCL and other oil activities in the country. 

It is important to note that this warning is to NNPCL and its subsidiary companies operating in the Niger Delta region. It is our call that the issues raised be addressed urgently beginning from the day of this publication. 

Signed:

Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill,

Spokesman of Ijaw Youth (IYC ) Worldwide.

Izoukumor gifts rural schools writing materials worth millions in Delta

Izoukumor gifts rural schools writing materials worth millions in Delta 

Francis Tayor 

Warri _____ ln line with his giving back to society growth and development policy as well as giving hope to the needy, the Executive Director of Social Services in the board of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, High Chief. Hon. Favour Izoukumor has gifted various riverine community primary schools across Delta State with writing materials such as books, biros, pencils e.t.c. that worth millions of naira.

In a statement released on Tuesday 26th September, 2023 by Hon. Favour Izoukumor Political Vanguard Media Team, stated that the kind gesture of the great Ogbe-ljoh born philanthropist cum politician was extended to primary schools in Burutu LGA and Warri South-West Local Government Areas in the State.

According to the statement written by David Wilson, said:

" In a world where access to quality education remains a pressing issue, individuals who go the extra mile to support learning initiatives deserve special recognition. One such remarkable individual is Hon. Chief Favour O. Izuokumor, whose unwavering love for education has made a significant impact on the lives of students in riverine communities. on the 26th September 2023, through the "Chief Favour O. Izoukumor Political Vanguard, Students Support Project," he provided writing materials to six different schools, brightening the educational prospects of countless children.

" The six fortunate schools that benefited from Chief Favour Izuokumor's benevolence are as follows:

1. Ewein Nursery and Primary School One, Ogbe-Ijoh

2. Isoun Primary School, Isaba

3. Ngbilebiri Primary School, Ayakoromo

4. Apiriboda Primary School, Ijansa

5. Fiyewei Primary

 School, Oporoza

6. Omaretsesione Primary School, Ogidigben

" This generous gesture extended to these schools is more than just a distribution of writing materials; it represents a beacon of hope and a promise for a brighter future for them. Access to writing materials might seem trivial to some, but for these students, it's a lifeline to their educational dreams. You could see the smile on their beautiful faces 

" Hon. Chief Favour Izuokumor's commitment to education goes beyond the act of providing materials. His initiative has ignited a spark of enthusiasm among students, showing them that their education matters. By nurturing the academic pursuits of these young minds, he is sowing the seeds for a more educated and empowered generation.

" Furthermore, it is important to acknowledge the dedicated teammates who played a pivotal role in ensuring the successful distribution of these writing materials. Their hard work and dedication demonstrate the power of collective efforts when it comes to making a difference in the lives of underserved communities.

" Education is a cornerstone of societal development, and Hon. Chief Favour Izuokumor's actions exemplify how individual initiative can be a catalyst for positive change. His love for education and commitment to supporting students in riverine communities is an inspiration to us all. We look forward to witnessing the continued impact of his efforts and hope that more individuals and organizations will follow in his footsteps to uplift education across our nation.

" God bless Hon.Favour Izuokumor 

God bless Delta State 

God bless Nigeria", the statement added.

IYC will Continue to Promote Peace in N/Delta, Nigeria _Amb. Binebai

IYC will Continue to Promote Peace in N/Delta, Nigeria _Amb. Binebai

Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide.

Press Statement 

21/09/2023

IYC Will Continue To Champion Peace In Niger Delta, Nigeria 

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has promised to consolidate and fashion out more ways in preaching and championing peaceful initiatives in Niger Delta, Nigeria and the world at large. 

The Ijaw Youth Council as a critical group in Niger Delta, Nigeria and beyond, we know the importance of peace in the World, hence we will do everything within our powers by working closely with relevant agencies and stakeholders in maintaining peace and tranquility in Nigeria and beyond. War is a scourge that must be resisted by all well meaning youths across the World. 

However, IYC will always resort to peaceful and legal means in demanding for justice, fairness and equity in the Nigerian State. Peace is indeed priceless as we must discourage violence under any guise. 

According to un.org, "The International Day of Peace was established in 1981 by the United Nations General Assembly. Two decades later, in 2001, the General Assembly unanimously voted to designate the Day as a period of non-violence and cease-fire."

The main significance of celebrating the International Day of Peace Day or World Peace Day is to foster a culture of peace and non-violence across global communities. It creates awareness among people about the disastrous effects of conflicts, wars, and violence, thereby encouraging them to adopt cease-fire initiatives.

This year’s theme is Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals. It is a call to action that recognizes our individual and collective responsibility to foster peace.

Fostering peace contributes to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals will create a culture of peace for all.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said, "Peace is needed today more than ever. War and conflict are unleashing devastation, poverty, and hunger, and driving tens of millions of people from their homes. Climate chaos is all around. And even peaceful countries are gripped by gaping inequalities and political polarization."

If the World needs peace more than ever, the Ijaw Youth Council is saying that Niger Delta and Nigeria at large needs peace more than ever. We stand for a peaceful and united Nigeria.

Signed:

Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill, Spokesman Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide.

N/Delta Group Hails Ndiomu for Reviving PAP Aviation Training Program

N/Delta Group Hails Ndiomu for Reviving PAP Aviation Training Program 

The Niger Delta Grand Initiative (NDGI) has hailed the Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Major-General Barry Ndiomu, for reviving the PAP’s Aviation Training Programme for Cadet Pilots and Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, over eight years after it was first conceived.

The social pressure group maintained that Ndiomu’s administrative focus and revival of the stalled training programme is a testament of his dedication to the empowerment of Niger Delta ex-agitators in line with the vision and mission of the PAP as well as the recognition to build the capacity of the region and the people.

In a press statement following the flagging-off ceremony of the Aviation Resuscitation Programme for Cadet Pilots and Aircraft Maintenance Engineers for ex-agitators of the Niger Delta in Lagos, the group said Ndiomu deserved to be celebrated as an icon for "capacity development" for accomplishing what his predecessors could not achieve even with the injection of greater funds into the PAP while they held sway.

"We are aware that the training is being provided by Alom Aviation Services Limited adjudged one of the best in the aviation training industry and we use this forum to align ourselves with the words of 

Ndiomu to those uninformed individuals who have been misinterpreting the Programme’s vision and mission" the group stated.

"We urge those pessimists to pay attention to both the Programme's short and long-term benefits especially now because the aviation sector is a significant touch-point for global commerce".

The training according to NDGI  presents a window into a future of greater benefits for the region  and the people and Nigeria at large.

The group argued that professional training such as the aviation scheme, would enhance regional skills of ex-agitators and youths which would in turn contribute to growth, bring peace to the Niger Delta as well as change the socio- economic narrative of the region.

The NDGI particularly agreed with Ndiomu on the issue of exportation of the trainees’ knowledge upon graduation in the pursuit of greener pastures since they would definitely add value to the Nigerian economy with their work abroad through foreign exchange remittance. 

"We therefore urge Niger Deltans to encourage and support Ndiomu for the initiatives being pursued in the PAP due to its huge benefits to the region and for his outstanding contributions  over the course of his one year in office" the statement emphasized.

The NDGI also enjoined the beneficiaries to maintain discipline during the training and remain focused on the greater objective for the collective good of the Niger Delta Region.

FG to Reclaim DSC Lands from illegal Occupants Soon, PSML Warns Developers

FG to Reclaim DSC Lands from illegal Occupants Soon, PSML Warns Developers 

Warri ____ Premium Steel and Mines Limited, current owners and operators of the defunct Delta Steel Company, Ovwian-Aladja, Delta State, has again cautioned land speculators and property developers to be wary of landed property acquired by the Federal Government of Nigeria for the purpose of developing the largest integrated steel complex in sub-Sahara Africa, adding that those making use of desperate vendors and building on federal government acquired lands risks losing their investments as the Federal Government can start to take action anytime.

The Director of Legal Affairs, Premium Steel and Mines Limited, Barr Emmanuel Agbaje, in a statement issued to newsmen on Thursday, stated that all the land on both sides and around the expressway from Igbiki and NBTC Junction to the Steel Plant are for the Federal Government and the aim is to develop and expand the Delta Steel Company.

According to him, there are subsisting courts injunctions stopping land speculators from trespassing on the aforementioned property and very soon action shall be taken against those building on the land.

Barr Agbaje disclosed that Premium Steel and Mines Limited have always warned land speculators from encroaching on those lands as they belong to the federal government and whoever refuses to listen to these warnings will soon face problems.

He said: “As we stated in our earlier warnings, the Federal Government which acquired those land did not at any time release the land to anybody for sale to land speculators.

“Those running from one court to the other in search of judicial pronouncement to back their sinister activities should understand that when the Federal Government bulldozers start pulling down those structures, PSML should not be blamed for the loss of their investment. They shall surely reap the whirlwind in due course.

“We are repeating these warnings so nobody would blame us when things start happening. Our newspaper publications and advertorials at huge cost to us will stand as witnesses against the trespassers. Nobody is above the law. However good your case is, if you flout valid court orders there must be consequences.

“It can take five, ten or even twenty years for the government to act. Act they must someday and when the bulldozers start coming, ignorance of the real owner (Federal Government of Nigeria) will not spare the illegally acquired property from the bulldozers.

“Government is already aware of the situation and it may act anytime soon. Buildings as tall as ten-storey edifices have been brought down by government bulldozers in Abuja, Lagos and other parts of the country.

“Let me repeat for the umpteenth time, stay away from DSC lands in and around the steel plant and other locations in Delta state so as not to lose your investments. Government is aware of the dubious activities of those encroaching on the lands and very soon, the federal government will come and take over that which they already acquired many years ago.”

PAP: Group blasts N/Deltans over incessant attacks on Ndiomu, warns against PHD syndrome

PAP: Group blasts N/Deltans over incessant attacks on Ndiomu, warns against PHD syndrome 

 

Yenagoa ____ A pressure group, the Niger Delta Peace Advocates (NDPA) has expressed concern over the pervading culture of the pull him down syndrome among some groups in the Niger Delta, saying the trend if not checked, will impact the region’s overall development as those charged with the responsibility of driving growth in the region could be discouraged from performing optimally.

Arising from a meeting in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital to proffer ways for an inclusive participation of all ethnic groups in the affairs of the region, they frowned at the role of some groups whose incessant protests, agitations, petition writing and negative media appearances was demarketing the Niger Delta and setting the people backwards.

In a statement signed by Ebitimi Kurowei, Chairman and Ekpe Ekpe-Ekere, Publicity Secretary, they noted in particular the unwarranted, uncultured and unconstructive attacks against the Presidential Amnesty Programme’s Interim Administrator, Major General Barry Ndiomu who from our observation has repositioned the Programme in line with the ideals of the founding fathers.

Since assumption of office a year ago as Interim Administrator, the NDPA says it is aware that General Ndiomu has recorded milestones successes in managing the PAP with added value in the reintegration process to build the capacity of ex-agitators and youths as part of the ongoing action to grow the economy and provide different skill-sets for people in the region.

The statement noted that “In this part of the world people are known to applaud the good works of their sons and daughters in public offices but regrettably, we find it unsettling and disturbing that despite the recorded milestones, the facetious petitions against the Interim Administrator are orchestrated by people from a particular ethnic group from two states in the region who share some affinity with him”.

‘’It is therefore surprising that the petitions and criticisms notwithstanding, the Presidential Amnesty Programme under General Ndiomu has recorded landmark successes with the PAP Cooperative Society legacy project, a well thought out scheme to provide financial empowerment through loans for those ex-agitators who are expected to apply for funds to enable them to grow and manage their personal businesses instead of building their futures around a meagre monthly stipend” it stated.

The Niger Delta Peace Advocates described those critics of General Ndiomu as selfish, greedy and unsatiated ingrates who see the Presidential Amnesty Programme as a cash cow and expects any chief executive officer to play ball with them in the spirit of business as usual or be disparaged and denigrated through public trial using the press, particularly the online media and bloggers as attack tools.

They flayed the culture of entitlement among some ethnic groups within the Niger Delta arguing that the mentality encourages indolence, unproductivity and in the long run hinders socio-economic growth in the region.

“The Presidential Amnesty Programme was established with a clear mandate to disarm, demobilize and reintegrate ex-agitators and it has run for more than fourteen years and if past chief executive officers who had huge resources had taken the initiatives introduced now by General Ndiomu, the majority of ex-agitators would have been successful drivers of the Niger Delta economy” the statement emphasized.

The Niger Delta Peace Advocates condemned the persistent, consistent and continuing campaigns of calumny against General Ndiomu who has however remained resolute in his resolve to do what is right and good for the ex-agitators while at the same time restoring the integrity and dignity of the PAP. “While we encourage him to excel and condemn those promoting the pull him down syndrome, we will not also hesitate to be critical of him though constructively, if he steps out of line” the statement added...

Judiciary: Bozimo, Falana’s wife, Okorotie, 66 others make SAN’s list

Judiciary: Bozimo, Falana’s wife, Okorotie, 66 others make SAN’s list 

Abuja____ The immediate past Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Delta State, Mr. Isaiah Bozimo; Mrs. Folashade Alli, daughter of renowned legal giant, Chief Afe Babalola and wife of rights activist, Femi Falana, Funmi are among lawyers that have been shortlisted for the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria by Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC).

Bozimo is the eldest son of a former Chief Judge of Delta State and former Administrator, National Judicial Institute (NJI), Mrs. Rosaline Irorefe Bozimo. His father, Alaowei Broderick Bozimo, was a former Nigerian Minister of Police Affairs.

Also shortlisted by the LPPC for the SAN rank are popular constitutional lawyer, Dr. Kayode Ajulo; Felix Tamara Udenke Mefa Okorotie; Bomo Agbebi; Daniel Uruakpa; Felix Offia; Lawrence Falade and Kingsley Obamogie.

The list of those recommended for consideration was released in a statement issued by the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) on Thursday.

“Also, after the independent appeals hearing and chambers inspection, preparatory to the interview stage in the process for the conferment of the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria on the successful Applicants for the year 2023.

“All qualified shortlisted applicants are graded under two-category systems by the LPPC, namely advocates and academic applicants respectively.”

SEE FULL LIST BELOW:

Shortlisted Advocate Applicants In Order Of Seniority At The Bar

1 Felix Ota Offia, Esq

2 Lawrence Bankole Falade, Esq

3 Kingsley Osabuohein Obamogie, Esq

4 Folashade Abosede Alli, Esq

5 Abiola Isiaq Oyebanji, Esq

Bomo Olakunle Agbebi, Esq

Daniel Osinach Uruakpa, Esq

Oseloka Godwin Osuigwe, Esq

Babatund E Adeoye, Esq

Babseyi Sigismund Joseph, Esq

Emmanuel Moses Enoidem, Esq

Kehinde Olufemi Aina, Esq

Ngozi Chido Olehi, Esq

Aaron Chileokwu Okoroma, Esq

Ibrahim Dalhatu Angulu, Esq

Olayiwola Emmanue L Afolabi, Esq

Sule Shu’aibu,Esq

Abiodun Olanrewaju Olaleru, Esq

Alfred Olufemi Atteh, Esq

Kazeem Adekunl E Sobaloju, Esq

Shehu Wadaabdullahi, Esq

Bamidele Ibironke Olawoye,Esq

Oluwaseyilayo Akinkunmi Ojo, Esq

Funmi Falana, Esq

Felix Tamara Udenke Mefa Okorotie, Esq

Oluwagbenga Seun Ajayi, Esq

Friday Ramses Aku Onoja, Esq

John Agada Elachi, Esq

Bola Razaq Gold, Esq

Paul Kasimanu Wamad Uemene, Esq

Rafiu Oyeyemi Balogun, Esq

Oluwole Aladedoye, Esq

Paul Yn Osobhase Abhulimen, Esq

Jonathan Taidi Gunu, Esq

Tochukwu Jude Onyiuke, Esq

Olukayode Abraham Ajulo, Esq

Christpher Adapar Umar , Esq

Chibueze Ogechi Ogbonna,Esq

Yemi Adewale M’sbaudeen Adesina, Esq

Omoyemi Lateef Akangbe, Esq

Olumide Akin Wale Olujinmi , Esq

Musa Adamu Aliyu, Esq

Fidelis Chuk Wunonye Mbadugha, Esq

Onyemaechi Chkwudi Adiukwu, Esq

Ikechukwu Philip Onuoma, Esq

Yakubu Philemon, Esq

Johnny Ugwugwaye Agim, Esq

Aliyu Lemu Ibrahim, Esq

49 . Isaiah Bozimo, Esq

Prisca Ozoiloesike, Esq

Yahaya Dan’asabe Dangana, Esq

Adeola Oluwaseun Adedipe, Esq

Adedayo Samue Ladedeji, Esq

Chikaosolu Ojukwu, Esq

Musaahmed Attah, Esq

Ayotunde Foluso Ogunleye, Esq

Olayemi Badewole, Esq

Shortlisted Academic Applicants In Order Of Seniority At The Bar

Prof. John Alewo Agbonika

Prof. Osy Chukwu Chukwunyere Nwebo

Prof. Nlerum Sunday Okogbule

Prof. Nnamdi Onyeka Obiaraeri

Prof. Mohammed Lawal Ahmadu

Prof. Nathaniel Ahagbue Inegbedion

Prof. Violet Aigbokhaevbo

Prof. Babatunde Adetunji Oni

Prof. Chima Josephat Ubanyionwu

Prof. Ganiyu Adeyemi Oke

Prof. Benedicta Lopez Daudu

Prof. Omoniyi Bukola Akintola.

Gov. Diri congratulate Lokpobiri, 9th NEC, vows continue support for IYC

Gov. Diri congratulate Lokpobiri, 9th NEC, vows continue support for IYC

.....As President Jonathan promises stronger Ijaw Youth Council

Binebai Princewill

Yenagoa _____ His Excellency, The Governor of Bayelsa State, also known as the Governor general of Ijaw Nation, Sen. Douye Diri has congratulated the 9th National Executive Council of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide and its President, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri. The Liberator Newspapers Worldwide can report.

The Governor while congratulating the new national officers of the Ijaw Youth Council had also vowed to stand by the IYC to continue his support for council.

Governor Douye Diri made the remark at his mansion in Esampou, Bayelsa State while receiving the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) national executive Council, founding fathers, leadership of parliament, former Presidents of council, Zonal structures, elders Council, clan structures and other critical stakeholders of council.

However, Sen. Douye Diri had particularly charged President Jonathan Lokpobiri and members of the 9th NEC never to compromise the Ijaw struggle, stressing that the IYC and its parent body, the Ijaw National Congress (INC) are the most powerful organs that should always speak to defend the sanctity of the Ijaw people in the Nigerian State.

His Excellency, the Governor of Bayelsa State had tasked President Jonathan Lokpobiri and the 9th NEC to prioritise the unity of Ijaw Nation, stressing that in unity lies the strength of a better Ijaw nation in the Nigerian State.

The Governor who spoke passionately about the critical nature of the Ijaw Youth Council to the Ijaw people had also charged President Lokpobiri and the 9th NEC to demand for the creation of more states for the Ijaws in the Nigerian State, adding that the Ijaws bulkernized into some of the states are really suffering as minorities.

Diri also called on the IYC to maintain its apolitical nature, stressing that council must not be partisan as it must be firm and bold to demand from the Federal Government of Nigeria what is due the Ijaw people.

According to him, the Ijaw people must participate and benefit from their resources that sustains the nation’s economy.

“As the Governor of Bayelsa State and Ijaw nation, I charge you all to continue to promote the great ideals of the Ijaw struggle in demands for justice and fairness in the development of Ijaw Nation.

“I am also calling on our youths to join hands in ensuring that the forthcoming Gubernatorial election in Bayelsa State is peaceful.” Governor Diri stated.

Earlier, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri, President Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, popularly known as the crown prince of Ijaw Nation had appreciated the Governor for the audience, the neutral role he played during the election as well as ensuring a peaceful transition process.

Jonathan Lokpobiri had assured the Bayelsa State Governor that the Ijaw Youth Council under his watch will make Ijaw nation proud by negotiating a better deal for the Ijaw people in the Nigerian State.

Lokpobiri also used the medium to unveil his plan to build a secretariat for the Ijaw Youth Council in Yenagoa with a request from the Governor to provide the land for the edifice.

Meanwhile, the crown prince of Ijaw nation had promised to carry everyone along, stressing that he will continue to uphold the ideals of the Ijaw struggle.

It was learnt that a total of one hundred and twenty three (123) persons made the IYC delegation that went to visit the Governor at his country home, Esampou in Bayelsa State yesterday.

Sokebolou Anglican Church Salutes Hon Julius Pondi on Tribunal Victory

Sokebolou Anglican Church Salutes Hon Julius Pondi on Tribunal Victory

Francis Tayor

Warri______ Members of St. Michael's Anglican Church, Sokebolou Community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, has joined other well wishers to felicitate and send a heartily congratulatory message to the honourable member representing the good people of Burutu Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Rt. Hon. Julius Gbabojor Pondi over his recent victory at the election tribunal sitting in Asaba.

In a statement released on Sunday and jointly signed by the Vicar, Revd. Stephen O.T. Yerinbide and the Secretary, Sis. Ebi Oleh noted that Hon. Julius Pondi's victory at the election tribunal is as a result of his good works to the church of God and that of the Constituency people he represents.

Revd. Yerinbide stressed that Pondi's good deeds towards the church of God will always speak for him, praying more Grace and God"s peace upon the life of the honourable member and his entire family, the statement added.

Read below full details of the congratulatory message:

CONGRATULATIONS MESSAGE:

We the Vicar, PCC and Members of St Michael's Anglican Church, Sokebolou in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, heartily rejoice and congratulates Rt. Hon. Julius Gbabojor Pondi, the member representing Burutu Federal Constitucy at the National Assembly, Abuja on the occasion of his recent victory at the election tribunal. It is the work of God so we felicitate with you. 

Isaiah 45:1-2:

"Thus saith the LORD to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the lions of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut.

"I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron:"

Your good works towards the church of God will always speak for you. Congratulations, more Grace and God's peace, the statement added.

Signed:

Revd. Stephen OT & Evang/Mrs. Vera O Yerinbide ( Vicar and wife).

Sis. Ebi Oleh, (Secretary).

Delta govt engages Julius Berger to construct flyovers in Warri, Effurun

Delta govt engages Julius Berger to construct flyovers in Warri, Effurun 

Asaba_____ Delta State Government has approved the award of contracts worth N78 billion to Julius Berger Nigeria Limited for the construction of three flyover bridges and road expansion in the Warri/Effurun megalopolis. 

This was part of decisions reached at the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Tuesday in Asaba.  

Briefing journalists at the end of the Exco meeting, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Engr Fred Edafiogho said approval of the contracts were aimed at solving the gridlock often experienced in the twin cities. 

He said the contracts included the design and construction of flyover bridge at Enerhen junction to Marine Gate; study, design and construction of road expansion and improvement works on the section of the DSC/NPA Expressway from Effurun roundabout to DSC roundabout including construction of a 3/4 Cloverleaf interchange at the existing Effurun Flyover Bridge as well as two pedestrian.

Oborevwori Assigns Portfolios to Oromoni, Clark as they Sworn ln as Special Advisers

Oborevwori Assigns Portfolios to Oromoni, Clark as they Sworn ln as Special Advisers 

The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has approved the assigning of portfolios to the newly sworn-in Special Advisers in the state.

According to a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, the Special Advisers and their portfolios are:

Barr Charles Whomrowho Oniyere - Legislative Matters, Barr. Michael Ogboru- Petroleum Resources, Hon. Ebikeme Clark- Youth Development,

Mr. Sylvester Oromoni- Environment, Hon. Shedrack Ekene Rapu-Housing Development.

Other Special Advisers assigned portfolios are Dr.  Donald Onyibe Peterson-Entrepreneurship Development, Dr. GoodNews G. Agbi-Project Monitoring, Hon. Peter Uviejitobor- Government Affairs and Chief Nath Azuka Igbadi - Infrastructure.

The statement further added that their appointment letters are ready and can be picked up from the office of the Secretary to the State Government.

Tantita mgt rejoices with Tinubu over Tribunal victory, 100 days in office

Tantita mgt rejoices with Tinubu over Tribunal victory, 100 days in office 

Renewed commitment to the war against oil theft Management and the entire team of Tantita Security Services Limited congratulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on his well-deserved victory at the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal and administration’s 100 days in office. 

The security firm in a press statement to congratulate the President on his 100 days in office, said that though the first 100-day were gusty and breathe, they, however, set the nation on the path of economic recovery, restoration, and an assurance to citizens that better days are ahead.

They added that the landmark tribunal victory has conferred confidence and legitimacy on the mandate freely given to President Bola Tinubu by Nigerians on the 25th of February 2023. 

It added “Tantita Security Services Limited has implicit trust and faith in his administration’s capacity to galvanize the nation to greater heights and abundance for Nigerians.

Read the full statement below:

DOUBLE CONGRATULATIONS TO HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU GCFR, ON YOUR 100 DAYS IN OFFICE AND VICTORY AT THE PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION PETITIONS TRIBUNAL 

The management and entire team of Tantita Security Services Limited wish to congratulate His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on his administration’s 100 days in office and his well-deserved victory at the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal. Though, the 100 days were gusty and breathtaking, they, however, set the nation on the path of economic recovery, restoration, and an assurance to citizens that better days are ahead. The landmark tribunal victory additionally conferred confidence and legitimacy on the mandate freely given to you by Nigerians on the 25th of February 2023.

Tantita Security Services Limited has implicit trust and faith in the administration’s capacity to galvanize the nation to greater heights and abundance for Nigerians.

Tantita Security Services Limited assures the government that it will not rest on its oars to apprehend ships, vessels, and persons involved in the illegal crude oil bunkering business that had economically retarded the nation in real-time in the past years.

Tantita Security Services Limited will continue to work in support of the administration by ensuring zero tolerance for oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta. 

We will perform our assigned duties with renewed enthusiasm and to the best of our ability. The spillover effect would be the boost in oil production, which in turn will exponentially lead to increased revenue earnings of the nation, which will enable your administration to fulfill its campaign promises to Nigerians. 

To this end, Tantita endorses and fully key into the Renewed Hope mantra of the government. We guarantee a tough time for oil thieves in the creeks and waterways of the littoral states of the Niger Delta Region.

Finally, Tantita Security Services Limited once again congratulates you on the 100 days of your administration and the Tribunal judgment that reaffirmed the mandate freely given to you by Nigerians in the Presidential Election.

The good Lord grants you more wisdom and sound health to steer the affairs of the nation for the well-being of all citizens and to the envy of other nations. 

Signed:  

SIGNED: MANAGEMENT: TANTITA SECURITY SERVICES NIGERIA LIMITED.

Delta Guber: Oborevwori heads to Supreme Court over Judgment

Delta Guber: Oborevwori heads to Supreme Court over Judgment

Asaba____ Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, of Delta State has filed a Notice of Appeal at the Supreme Court against the judgment of the Court of Appeal, Abuja, which ordered the Delta State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal to hear, on merit, the petition filed by the candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the last election, Ken Pela, challenging his election as governor.

Oborevwori, in the Notice of Appeal filed by his lead counsel, Mr. Damian Dodo (SAN), listed three grounds upon which he would argue that the appellate court erred in making an order for a retrial in the Labour Party’s petition.

A three-man panel of the Court of Appeal led by Justice M L Shuaibu had in a judgment delivered on August 31, faulted the decision of the tribunal to dismiss the case of the petitioners on claims that the petition was abandoned because the petitioners’ application for pre-hearing session was not properly filed.

Subsequently, the appellate court ordered that the petition be taken back to the tribunal for hearing within the time stipulated in the Electoral Act.

Dissatisfied with the decision of the Court of Appeal, the governor has now filed a Notice of Appeal at the Supreme Court where he is seeking an order of the court allowing the appeal.

He also asked the court to set aside the judgment of the Appeal Court delivered on August 31, 2023, and affirmed the decision of the tribunal delivered on July 6, 2023.In ground one of the Notice of Appeal, Oborevwori stated that “the lower court erred in law when, despite its findings that the respondents’ application for issuance of pre-hearing notice filed on May 19, 2023 was pre-mature, having been filed before the close of pleadings, and the respondents’ admission that the said application was indeed pre-mature, it proceeded to hold that the procedure adopted by the respondents, albeit wrong, did not matter as issues in contention had been brought to focus, and thereby occasioned a grave miscarriage of justice.”

While observing that Paragraph 18 of the First Schedule to the Electoral Act, 2022 requires a petitioner to apply for the issuance of Pre-Hearing Notice as in Form TF 007 within seven days after the filing and service of the petitioner’s reply or seven days after the filing and service of the respondent’s reply, whichever the case may be, the appellant pointed out that “pleadings” in the instant petition closed with the filing and service of the 1st and 2nd respondents’ reply to the appellants’ reply to the petition on June 9, 2023.

Prior to the close of pleadings, the 1st and 2nd respondents filed an Application for the Issuance of Pre-Hearing Notice on May 19, 2023.“On June 5, 2023, when the petition came up for commencement of pre-trial, the 1st and 2nd respondents by their admission, informed the tribunal that the petition was not ripe for pre-hearing as they have only just been served with appellants’ reply to the petition.“In a bid to cure this defect, the 1st and 2nd respondents filed another application for Issuance of Pre-Hearing Notice on June 21, 2023, 13 days after the close of pleadings.

The first and second respondents proceeded to orally withdraw their second Application for Issuance of Pre-Hearing Notice on June 24, 2023, while replying to the 2nd and third respondents’ motion on notice seeking the dismissal of the petition for being abandoned.“The lower court, despite finding that the application for issuance of Pre-Hearing Notice as in Form TF001 was premature, proceeded to set aside the decision of the trial tribunal dismissing the petition.

“Paragraph 18 of the First Schedule is of a unique and sui generis nature, and its provisions are mandatory.“Failure to comply with the rules as to the procedure therein is fatal to the fate of any petition”, Oborevwori stated.Similarly, in ground two of the Notice of Appeal, the appellant argued that the lower court below erred in law when having held that pleadings will be deemed to have closed when all the respondents file their respective replies to the petition, it proceeded to allow the appeal, even though the 1st and 2nd respondents’ application was for issuance of Pre-Hearing Notice was pre-mature, having been filed before the close of pleadings.

Oborevwori further submitted in ground three that the, “lower court erred in law when it failed to be bound by the latest decision of the apex court in Maku & Anor v. Sule & Ors (2019) LPELR- 58513 (SC); (2022) 3 NWLR (PT. 1817) 231 and proceeded to set aside the trial tribunal’s decision which had followed the said decision of this honourable court.”In addition, he submitted that by the doctrine of stare decisis, the lower court ought to have followed the decision of the Supreme Court in determining the 1st and 2nd respondents’ appeal before it.

Biggy Appreciates Gov Diri, others on Appointment as Technical Assistant on Special Duty

Biggy Appreciates Gov Diri, others on Appointment as Technical Assistant on Special Duty 

Francis Tayor

Yenagoa _____ A youth leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP from Southern ljaw LGA, Double Chief. Ebi Wilson Pinapinawei, popularly known as Commander Biggy has appreciated the miracle governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency, Sen. Douye Diri in finding him worthy for his recent appointment as Technical Assistant (TA) on Special Duties to the Governor.

In the appreciation message released on Monday at Yenagoa, the state capital, Commander Biggy also extended his heartfelt appreciation to his political leaders, Dr. Michael Amaegberi, ( the Executive Secretary of Bayelsa State Higher Education Students Loan Board) and the distinguished honourable Commissioner for Power, Hon. Ebite Toyon Robert for their amazing contributions to ensure the success of his appointment.

Speaking further, the Ekeni born youth ambassador has pledge his unalloyed commitment with his boys to faithfully serve and support Gov. Douye Diri's prosperity government in order to catapult Bayelsa State to the envy of other states in Nigeria.

He concluded by saying; on behalf of his immediate family, especially his two beautiful wives, first lady Mrs. Abigail Pinapinawei, second lady Mrs. Lawrenta Pinapinawei, Mr. Amamuladei Frank Dubakeme, Mr. Jephthah Timothy Jephthah and Chief. Brisibei Braladei Wuka that he is extremely grateful to God, the Bayelsa State Government and his political leaders for the rare privilege given him to serve the good people of the glory of all land.