The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • PDP group lauds judiciary over ruling on Rivers allocation

    PDP group lauds judiciary over ruling on Rivers allocation

    The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Youth Frontiers has commended the Federal High Court’s landmark ruling stopping the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from releasing monthly allocations to the Rivers State Government. 

    This decision comes after Governor Siminalayi Fubara presented the 2024 budget to a four-member Rivers House of Assembly, violating Sections 91 and 96 of the 1999 Constitution.

    According to Justice Joyce Abdulmalik’s ruling, Governor Fubara’s actions constituted a “constitutional somersault and aberration” that must not continue. 

    The PDP Youth Frontiers at a press conference on Wednesday, praised the ruling, stating it revives hope in the judiciary as a guardian of Nigeria’s democracy.

    The court’s decision declared the four-member assembly’s actions void, referencing prior Federal High Court and Court of Appeal rulings that annulled its authority. 

    Comrade  Henry Owolabi, the National coordinator of the group, demanded an immediate reversal of all decisions made by the illegitimate assembly and a refund of illegally spent funds.

    Owolabi also urged Fubara to respect the party that gave him the platform to become governor and to retrace his steps to avoid further constitutional breaches. 

    He called on the PDP to provide guidance to the Rivers Assembly to prevent the people from suffering due to the governor’s actions.

    Owolabi emphasised the need for Governor Fubara to take corrective action, warning that persistence in his current path may necessitate further legal action.

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    He added: “We are pleased that the ruling, in citing constitutional violations by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, was specific in stating that the decisions made by the four-member Fubara-backed assembly were void and referenced prior rulings by the Federal High Court and Court of Appeal that had annulled its authority.

    “For us, this implies that all other violations that Governor Fubara used the four-man assembly to illegally validate must also be reversed and this must be done immediately. We shall be setting up a team to identify and collate all such decisions and then take the necessary steps to ensure they are reversed. We hope Governor Fubara will not persist in his destructive recalcitrance that might necessitate our going to court to, again, compel him to do the right thing. 

    “We hope that Governor Fubara will explore the face-saving chance that this court ruling has provided to retrace his steps and return to respecting the PDP as the platform that magnanimously gave him the platform that made him the Rivers State Governor. 

    “This timely counsel becomes necessary to avert a situation where the PDP Youth Frontiers is compelled to take far-reaching actions to restore democracy in Rivers State, where the governor’s penchant for constitutional breaches has completely muddled the waters.

    “We call on our great party, the PDP, to take steps to stop further constitutional aberrations by providing the needed political guidance to the Rivers State House of Assembly to properly resume its functions of receiving and passing a legitimate 2024 budget for the state. This is to ensure that they prevent the people of the state from being plunged into suffering because of the governor’s error.

    “The party should also mandate its members in the state house of assembly to cause the parliament to trace all illegally spent funds and seek a refund of the same from Governor Fubara.“

  • Afatakpa hail Igali’s emergence as PANDEF chairman

    Afatakpa hail Igali’s emergence as PANDEF chairman

    Ambassador ( Chief) Freeman Mac-Anthony Aghogho Afatakpa, Iyasere of Orhuworhun Kingdom, Udu Local Government Area, Delta State, has congratulated Amb. Godknows Igali, the new Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).

    Afatakpa, also Enemute of Agbarho Kingdom, Ughelli North Local Government, in a statement on Saturday, in Warri, Delta State, said Igali is a true pan Niger Deltan and genuinely committed to actualisation of dreams of Niger Delta people and growth of the oil rich region.

    The South-South Zonal Director for Youth Affairs, International Human Rights Protection Service (IHRPS) also thanked PANDEF for electing Igali as Chairman to lead the frontline Niger Delta group.

    According to him, Igali had shown genuine commitment to the growth and development of Niger Delta in his personal capacity, noting that as Chairman of PANDEF, he has been given opportunity to contribute and do more for his people.

    He expressed optimism that Igali will deliver on his new assignment, explaining that the people of Niger Delta have absolute confidence in him.

    The Urhobo born businessman and Chairman/CEO, De-Leo Group of Companies, urged the people of Niger Delta to support Igali led PANDEF for the collective interest of the region.

    He advised the people of Niger Delta to unite and continue to live in harmony while pursuing to achieve a common goal, adding that the region is blessed with human and natural resources.

    Afatakpa further advised youths in South South region to remain  peaceful and law abiding, noting that International Oil Companies and others operators should consider creating employment for the youths to sustain the existing peace in the region.

  • Dafinone leads BoI sensitisation workshop for MSMEs

    Dafinone leads BoI sensitisation workshop for MSMEs

     In a landmark event for local business empowerment, Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) hosted a one-day sensitisation workshop in collaboration with the Bank of Industry (BoI) aimed at empowering small and medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs) in his district. 

    Held on October 25, 2024, at the PTI Conference Center in Effurun, the workshop sought to educate entrepreneurs on federal loan facilities, access to BoI intervention funds, and effective financial management.

    Addressing a gathering of business owners and community leaders, Senator Dafinone underscored his commitment to supporting Delta Central constituents, emphasising that the event was a response to the urgent need for economic empowerment. 

    “I will make sure that we have more of these programs going forward, so we can continue exchanging views and identifying what you need. It is your vote, your work, that sent me to Abuja, and I cannot forget that in my assignment,” he stated, highlighting his accountability to the people who elected him.

     Dafinone explained that the workshop was designed not only to connect participants with BoI resources but also to help them understand the broader range of federal opportunities available. “In Abuja, through many different federal agencies, opportunities are available for you. It is important that you are made aware of these opportunities and shown how best you can benefit,” he added.

    With financial constraints affecting many small businesses, Dafinone stressed that his goal is to ensure prosperity for the people of Delta Central. He encouraged attendees to share the information with their communities. “Today’s session is about awareness. Beyond yourselves here, you are representing people at home, so carry this information to your neighbors, family, and party members. When you access these loans, it does not stop your neighbor from benefiting,” he explained, calling for collective growth.

    The Senator also used the occasion to acknowledge President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, which he described as necessary despite their immediate hardships. “Our president is making the bold decisions we needed years ago. If we had allowed petrol prices to reflect global prices, we wouldn’t face the challenges we see today. These measures aim to stop a handful of people from profiting from subsidies, ultimately benefiting all Nigerians in the long term,” he said, urging attendees to adapt and find opportunities in the changing economic landscape.

    The BoI’s Divisional Head for MSMEs in the South-South and South-East, Packqueens Irabor, expressed gratitude to Senator Dafinone for initiating the workshop, which he described as a pivotal opportunity for entrepreneurs in Delta State. “The Bank of Industry is managing a 200-billion-naira federal intervention fund that caters to large enterprises, MSMEs, and nano-industries. For nano-industries, 50 billion is available, with each recipient eligible for grants up to 50,000 naira,” Irabor said, detailing the funding structure. He explained that MSMEs can receive loans up to one million naira, while medium and large enterprises can access funds of up to one billion naira.

    Speaking to journalists outside the event, Senator Dafinone reiterated his dedication to empowering his constituents. “At the national level, there are numerous grants and federal programs meant to empower people in these challenging times. Many of my constituents are unaware of these opportunities, so today’s workshop was set to bridge that gap. I believe the session was successful in increasing understanding, and I am hopeful that the BoI will see a spike in applications from our community,” he said.

    Irabor, speaking within the hall, lauded Senator Dafinone’s foresight, describing him as the “first senator to initiate this type of meeting.” He added, “The Bank of Industry has a mandate to democratize development, and we are focused on individuals who can follow the rules and grow. Businesses that can benefit from our loans span farming, real estate, fashion design, medical centers, vocational training, and even religious institutions.”

    Mr. Kenneth Nwakolo, the Chief Resource Person from BoI, emphasized the importance of financial literacy in business success, explaining the basics of financial management to participants. “Opportunities for funding abound for SMEs, whether for starting a business, expanding, or managing cash flow. But understanding finance and how it affects every business decision is essential,” Nwakolo said, outlining the importance of responsible borrowing and repayment.

    As a notable aspect of the program, Senator Dafinone emphasized that BoI loans are not gifts but financial tools that require diligent management and repayment. He shared the story of a successful entrepreneur in attendance who had previously taken a loan, repaid it, and is now applying for additional funding to expand her business. “If you apply for a loan and fail to pay back, your credit rating is damaged, which could disqualify you from future loans,” he warned, stressing the importance of maintaining a good credit score.

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    The event concluded with words from Senator Dafinone’s Chief of Staff, Olorogun Adelabu Bodjor, and other BoI representatives, including Babatunde Ajala, Monday Odjigada, Moses Nengor, and Gloria Odjaremu, who collectively reinforced the BoI’s commitment to guiding Delta’s entrepreneurs through the process of obtaining federal funding.

    For Delta Central entrepreneurs, the BoI sensitization workshop was an eye-opener, providing them with the knowledge and tools to leverage federal resources to grow their businesses. Senator Dafinone’s efforts reflect a broader goal: to not only support individual businesses but also foster economic resilience across Delta Central’s communities.

  • Physically challenged constituents hobnob with C’River Rep at 60

    Physically challenged constituents hobnob with C’River Rep at 60

    Instead of feasting with people of his class, Dr Alex Egbona, the member representing Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency of Cross River State in the House of Representatives, chose to celebrate his 60th birthday with physically challenged persons from his constituency, eating with and also giving them food items.

    As he took to the dance floor with the persons living with disabilities, Egbona who also presented an autobiography, gave them cash, saying it was better and more fulfilling to celebrate his diamond jubilee with the physically challenged.

    They were drawn from the two local governments of Abi and Yakurr that make up the federal constituency. 

    Egbona said he decided to wine and dine with them because they were the actual people that need food, solace and comfort at this critical time in the history of Nigeria.

    At the Assemblies of God Church, Ekureku, where he had a thanksgiving service, Egbona said he had gone through oddities of life in the last 60 years but enjoyed God’s mercies and love.

    Recalling how he grew up not knowing his father, he paid tribute to the late mother whom he said raised him single-handedly and provided all he needed till he became a graduate.

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    He said he never thought he would live above 40 years, considering the suffering he went through in life.

     He expressed appreciation to all those who assisted him from his growing up days till he could fend for himself.

    Egbona specifically thanked former Governors Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke, who he served before getting to the House of Representatives. 

    Some of the physically challenged expressed gratitude to the lawmaker for identifying and celebrating his birthday with them. 

    They said no other politician had shown them the kind of love and care that they have enjoyed from Egbona.

    Stephen Ofem, a cripple, while appreciating Egbona for always identifying with them in the constituency, urged other well-to-do Nigerians to stop looking at people with disabilities with disdain but emulate the lawmaker and treat them with dignity and love.

    Eminent Ubi, also a cripple, described Egbona as a man with the heart of gold, in the habit of lending a hand of support to the disabled and other less privileged persons in the state. 

    He said his prayer was for God to keep the legislator alive for many more years to come and in good health, having been a source of joy and happiness to many.

  • APC national women leader greets Oba of Benin on 71st birthday

    APC national women leader greets Oba of Benin on 71st birthday

    …rejoices with monarch on eighth coronation anniversary

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) national women leader, Dr. Mary Alile Idele, has felicitated with the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, on the momentous occasion of his eighth coronation anniversary and 71st birthday.

    In a statement on Monday, October 21, Dr Adiele noted that the Oba’s commitment to nurturing the values of the rich Benin Kingdom has inspired her and strengthened community bond among people. 

    The statement reads in parts: “As we celebrate this significant milestone, we reflect on the invaluable contributions of the Oba in promoting peace, unity and cultural heritage within the Benin Kingdom and beyond. 

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    “His commitment to nurturing the values of the rich Benin culture has inspired many and strengthened community bonds.

    “We celebrate not only the Oba’s remarkable journey as a monarch, but also his unwavering dedication to the development of the people. 

    “His leadership has been instrumental in ensuring that the history and traditions of the Benin people are preserved and celebrated.

    “On behalf of the National Women’s Wing of the APC, we wish His Royal Majesty continued good health, wisdom and strength, as he leads with grace and dignity. 

    “May this year bring even more accomplishments and joy to the Benin Kingdom under his stewardship.

    “Congratulations once again to the Oba of Benin on this joyful occasion! Oba ghato kpere, Ise!”

  • Niger Delta leader consoles Kyari over daughter’s death

    Niger Delta leader consoles Kyari over daughter’s death

    A famous leader and advocate of good governance in the Niger Delta region, Oghenekaro Edor, has described the death of 25-year-old Ms Fatima Kyari, the daughter of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, as shocking.
    The Delta State-born activist, in a statement he issued in Port Harcourt said Fatima’s death at such a young age was heartbreaking, devastating and would remain an irreparable loss.

    Edor said only Allah could give the Kyari’s family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss urging the deceased family and friends of Fatima to take solace in the Almighty since no mortal could challenge the will of Allah.

    He said: “My heartfelt condolence goes to the Kyaris, one can only imagine the pain of losing a child with a very promising future at such a young age.

    “We can only accept the painful incidents as the will of the Almighty Allah. We have to be comforted by the fact that death is the ultimate end of every mortal.

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    “May the Almighty Allah grant Ms Fatima Aljanna Fidaus and give the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss of their loved one”.

    Edor said Engr Kyari had demonstrated absolute faith and patriotism in the Nigerian state all through his public service and called on the people to pray for his family at their trying time.

  • Southern youths flay fake video against Akpabio

    Southern youths flay fake video against Akpabio

    A coalition of youths in Southern Nigeria has condemned  a negative viral video against Senate President Godswill Akpabio describing it as the handiwork of mischief makers.

    The groups from the Southern Youth Development Forum inc and youth leaders from Eket, Ikot Ekpene, Oron, and Uyo federal constituencies of Akwa Ibom State said the video was to undermine the integrity and humanist posture of the Senate President.

    In a statement in Uyo jointly signed by Mr James Akpan, Uduak Humphrey and Uchenna Idechukwuka, the group said that Akpabio couldn’t have said that Nigerians should go and eat free food because of the hard times.

    “The fake video circulating in social media against the Senate President, senator Godswill akpabio is an insult to the people of Akwa ibom and the Niger Delta where the Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio comes from.

    “We see this as sponsored by the people who are unhappy with the Senate President’s popularity in the country and are  making attempts to cause  disaffection among the people,” the statement said.

    The group warned the enemies of Akpabio to know that he is loved and appreciated by Nigerians because of his humaneness and track record of good governance.

     “We are solidly behind him and  no amount of blackmail will make the people to hate him. The doctored video is also to create impressions that Akpabio is anti people but they don’t know him as we do.

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    “As commissioner, governor and minister Akpabio has carved a niche for himself as a man who turned boys to men, a detribalised Nigerian, a great philanthropist, a great man who has affected the lives of so many people.

    “This is a man who changed the face of governance in Akwa Ibom state and the Niger Delta. His support for President Bola Tinubu is also making some people envious of him. Akpabio as Senate President is busy mobilising the grassroots for Mr President.

    “No amount of fake news will distract him or his followers who are growing across region. We are ready to raise more followers for the President through Akpabio because he is a man who loves the masses,” the youths maintained.

    They cautioned those playing politics of blackmail, and fake news to desist henceforth,  “as we are with the Senate President, his followers cut across nigeria and are  beyond religion and ethnicity”.

    Emeka Obielom, a supporter of the Senate President and International coordinator of the Team Good Governance group,  said that Senate President remains the strong voice for the masses.

    Obielom, who spoke from outside the country, said that Southeastern youth groups stand with the Senate President adding that the group will continue to invest their loyalty and support for him  because of what he  represents in terms of good governance and his well vouched pedigree.

  • South-south youths commends Fubara for providing operational vehicles to NSCDC

    South-south youths commends Fubara for providing operational vehicles to NSCDC

    The South-south Youths Initiative (SSYI) has praised Rivers State Governor, Siminialayi Fubara, for his swift response to their call by providing operational vehicles to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the state. 

    The move was seen as a significant step toward bolstering security in Rivers, especially amidst the recent political tensions.

    In a statement, the national president of the youth group, Imeabe Saviour Oscar, expressed gratitude to Governor Fubara, describing him as a “listening and proactive leader” who is committed to improving security. 

    “We commend the governor for heeding the call of the South South Youths Initiative for the provision of operational vehicles for the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps. His prompt response shows he is dedicated to providing quality leadership and portrays him as a leader who listens to his people,” Oscar said.

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    The SSYI had previously urged the governor to include the NSCDC in his security plans following the provision of over 100 vehicles to the police by the Rivers State government. 

    The delivery of vehicles to the NSCDC, they believe, will greatly enhance security operations in the state.

    The youth leader also urged the state government to involve youth organizations like theirs in contributing to the development of the state. 

    “We call on the government to give opportunities to SSYI and other meaningful youth groups to offer services that will benefit the people of Rivers State.”

    Oscar also used the opportunity to call for calm amidst ongoing political unrest.

    “We appeal for calm in the state and urge all stakeholders and political gladiators to sheath their swords and allow peace to reign, so the people of Rivers State can benefit from the current administration,” he added.

    He further emphasised that conflicting court rulings were only hindering the state’s progress.

    “Too many conflicting court judgments and injunctions cannot help Rivers State. For once, this state should experience peace and good governance,” he said. 

  • Otuaro seeks partnership of NCTC to sustain Niger Delta peace 

    Otuaro seeks partnership of NCTC to sustain Niger Delta peace 

    The Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) has sought the collaboration  of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) to sustain the peace and security initiatives of PAP for Niger Delta stability. 

    Speaking when he paid a courtesy visit to the National Coordinator of the NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, in Abuja at the weekend, the PAP Administrator, Dr Dennis Otuaro, said the partnership of the centre would help deepen the programme’s ongoing peace and security process in the region.

    Otuaro, in a statement issued by his special assistant on media, Igoniko Oduma, said his administration would be delighted to collaborate with the NCTC, which is also under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), to make the region safer.

    He noted that a peaceful Niger Delta would guarantee increase in Nigeria’s oil output and improve the economic wellbeing of the country in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Otuaro said: “We want to work with you. This visit is aimed at seeking support and partnership with the NCTC under the ONSA structure to make the Niger Delta a very safe place, and to continue to see that oil production increases for the benefit of the country.

    “We must make sure that there is sustainable peace and security in the Niger Delta. We are also determined to use the opportunities available for the PAP Office to ensure that vulnerable Niger Deltans and impacted communities are touched positively.

    “We will continue to play our role to support the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration and Nigeria to safeguard the future of the country.”

    The PAP boss lauded the NCTC for the effective tackling of security issues, stressing that the centre had recorded significant successes.

    Earlier, the National Coordinator of the NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said that the centre was working tirelessly for the peace and security of the nation.

    Laka thanked the PAP administrator for the visit and his desire for the centre to partner with the programme for the peace, security and stability of the Niger Delta region.

  • Defence Minister tours illegal refining site, vows to eradicate economic sabotage in N’Delta

    Defence Minister tours illegal refining site, vows to eradicate economic sabotage in N’Delta

    The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Aubakar has joined troops and officers of the Nigerian Army to tour one of the illegal refineries in the Niger Delta region.

    Shortly after the tour, Abubakar, who was shocked at the high level of environmental devastation and economic sabotage of the illegal activities, pledged that the Federal Government would put an end to oil bunkering in the region.

    Abubakar, who confessed that it was the first time he would visit such a site,  described it as a menace that must be eradicated.

    He spoke when he visited an illegal crude oil refining site in the creeks of Asari-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.

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    He appreciated the challenges faced by the military in dismantling illegal refineries located in harsh terrains.

    The minister’s visit was following the renewed efforts by the Nigerian Army to combat all forms of economic sabotage and  illegal oil bunkering.

    While commending the military personnel for their efforts, Aubakar said: “I have visited here for the first time to see the nature of the illegal refineries and what constitute the challenges in trying to dismantle them across the Niger Delta.

    “I have seen how our gallant officers are working very hard despite the tough terrain to get to those illegal refineries and dismantle them.”

    The defence minister disclosed that the site he visited was the 67th to be dismantled by Battalion 103, with other formations also making significant progress.

    He said: “From what I learnt, this is number 67th in this Battalion 103 and  the other formations are doing their best also. So it is a continuous process and they have assured me that they will end these illegal refineries’ operation in no distant future.

    “I have seen the challenge and what they are facing and I thank them most sincerely for the job.”

    Abubakar emphasized the importance of community cooperation in ending illegal oil bunkering, urging Niger Delta communities to collaborate with the army in intelligence gathering.

    He said: “They are to continue to give us Intelligence that will help us stop this, it is very very important for us to come back to producing 2.3million to 2.5million barrels a day, for the economic development and prosperity of this nation.