The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger delta

  • Widows Day 2024: Lulu-Briggs, African women lawyers fete widows, champion property rights reform

    Widows Day 2024: Lulu-Briggs, African women lawyers fete widows, champion property rights reform

    In a compelling message during the African Women Lawyers Association’s special thanksgiving and outreach service on Sunday 23 June, Dr. Seinye O.B. Lulu-Briggs, Chairman of the O.B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation, called for urgent action to support widows worldwide. 

    Highlighting the dire conditions faced by an estimated 258 million widows globally, including 15 million in Nigeria, Dr. Lulu-Briggs emphasised the critical need for collective efforts to achieve gender equality.

    “Today presents another important opportunity to draw attention to the plight of widows and their children. One in ten widows lives in extreme poverty, demanding our immediate action,” stated Dr. Lulu-Briggs. 

    Lulu-Briggs decried the marginalisation of women despite their invaluable contributions to the economy. According to her, women continued to face significant legal, cultural, and social barriers preventing them from owning or inheriting land and property. 

    “Without secure land rights, women are vulnerable to discrimination, poverty, exploitation, and displacement. They lack the collateral to access credit, invest in their futures, and care for their families,” she explained.

    Reflecting on her personal experience as a widow for the past six years, Dr. Lulu-Briggs shared how it has reinvigorated her commitment to challenging the norms that marginalise the underserved, vulnerable, elderly, and poor. 

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    “More than ever, I am convinced that we must all stand up and contribute to the fight for more just, equitable, caring, transformative, and inclusive policies and practices in our communities,” she asserted.

    Extending her solidarity to widows, Dr. Lulu-Briggs assured that they are neither forgotten nor invisible. “There are millions of people, like me, who work tirelessly, not just on International Widows’ Day, but every day, to improve your situation and empower you,” she declared.

    Concluding with a message of hope, Dr. Lulu-Briggs affirmed that “Together, we will accelerate the achievement of gender equality and create a better world for ourselves and for future generations.”

    Gloria Ohia, the Rivers State Coordinator of the African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) expressed gratitude to High Chief Dr. Seinye Lulu-Briggs and the O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation for the support they have consistently extended to AWLA over the years to vigorously defend the rights of widows.

    Ohia called on all widows to actively pursue their legal rights and reassured them of AWLA’s support, in partnership with the O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation, to provide free legal aid.

    Among groups who participated in the event were widows of fallen heroes of the Nigerian Police, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Airforce through their respective Officers Wives Associations.

    The International Widows’ Day is observed globally on the 23rd of June. This year’s theme: Accelerating the achievement of gender equality, underscores the necessity of advocating for gender equality, particularly by enhancing land and property rights across Nigeria. 

    The highlight of the event was a special outreach organized by the African Women’s Lawyers Association and the O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation, which saw the distribution of food and gift items to widows and a medical outreach for women organised in partnership with the Rivers State Chapter of the Medical Women Association of Nigeria.

  • Aiteo resumption of production patriotic, timely for economic growth- Reps downstream chairman

    Aiteo resumption of production patriotic, timely for economic growth- Reps downstream chairman

    The Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources, Downstream Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere has commended the CEO of Aiteo Oil Company Benedict Peters for resuming production days after the oil firm disclosed that there had been an oil leak on its Nembe Oilfield asset in Bayelsa State.

    Aiteo Eastern Exploration and Production Company (AEEPCO), operator of the NNPC/ Aiteo Joint Venture on OML 29 said that this followed the completion of the joint investigative visit to the spill site by all stakeholders as required by the regulations.

    Reacting to the news, Ugochinyere in a statement said that the resumption of production is patriotic and timely for economic growth of the nation.

    Read Also: Aiteo resumes production at OML 29 after oil spill

    The lawmaker said the slump in Nigeria’s monthly oil outputs which has resulted in billions of Naira revenue loss has a source of concern to the parliament.

    He stated that this continued plunge in Nigeria’s oil production has severally been blamed on the incessant vandalism of oil pipelines and crude oil theft.

    While commending Aiteo for the speed and professionalism in handling the leak, Ugochinyere assured of National Assembly’s commitment to addressing this issue, through legislative interventions.

  • Ethnic youth leaders hail Benedict Peters over Aiteo resumption of production after Nembe oil leak

    Ethnic youth leaders hail Benedict Peters over Aiteo resumption of production after Nembe oil leak

    Sociocultural group, Ethnic Youth Leaders Council, has hailed the CEO of Aiteo Oil Company Benedict Peters for resuming production, days after the oil firm disclosed that there had been an oil leak on its Nembe Oilfield asset in Bayelsa State.

    Aiteo Eastern Exploration and Production Company (AEEPCO), operator of the NNPC/ Aiteo Joint Venture on OML 29, at the weekend said that this followed the completion of the joint investigative visit to the spill site by all stakeholders as required by the regulations

    The group in statement by council member and President Arewa consultative youth President Kabiru Yusuf lauded Peters for his patriotism and commitment to saving environment.

    Read Also: Aiteo resumes production at OML 29 after oil spill

    The group also hailed him for building a powerful indigenous company that is responsive to national needs.

    They lamented that Nigeria’s aspiration of increasing its oil production has always suffered a setback, adding that as Aiteo, one of the country’s biggest hydrocarbons producers, has announced resumption of crude oil production, it will positively impact crude oil production.

    The group said: “We commend the CEO of Aiteo Oil Company Benedict Peters for resuming production, days after the oil firm disclosed that there had been an oil leak on its Nembe Oilfield asset in Bayelsa State. This is great news and timely given the set backs the sectors have encountered over the years.

    “We also commend him for his patriotism and commitment to saving environment and as well building a powerful indigenous company that is responsive to national needs. The speed in handling the situation.”

  • Staff of Office: Dafinone congratulates HRM Igbi II, Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom

    Staff of Office: Dafinone congratulates HRM Igbi II, Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta North) has congratulated His Royal Majesty (HRM), Kingsley Emakpo Orereh, Igbi 11, the Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom on his presentation of Staff of Office by the Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, praying that his reign will usher in peace and development to the Agbarha-Warri Kingdom.

    The lawmaker in a statement also congratulated the great people of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, urging them to continue to work and support the king to succeed

    He noted that the success of any king is subject to the support and loyalty of his subjects, urging them to build on the spirit of unity and oneness displayed in the activities leading to the coronation of the Ovie and the official presentation of staff of office.  

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    Senator Dafinone’s statement reads: “On behalf of the Urhobo people whom I represent at the Senate, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Royal Majesty, Kingsley Emakpo Orereh, Igbi II, the Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, on this momentous occasion of your presentation of the staff of office by the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

    “This historic event marks a new chapter in the rich history of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom. It is a testament to your exemplary leadership, wisdom, and the high esteem in which you are held by our people and beyond.

    “As you assume this revered position, I pray that your reign will be characterized by peace, prosperity, and development of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom. May your leadership bring unity, progress, and a renewed sense of community among our people. 

    “I pray that God graces you with wisdom to put the welfare of your subjects and kingdom far above other interests and I do not doubt that under your guidance, Agbarha-Warri Kingdom will continue to flourish.

    “Your Royal Majesty, as you embark on this noble journey, please be assured of my continued support and prayers. May your reign be long, fruitful, and filled with the blessings of peace and prosperity.

    “Congratulations once again, and may God bless the Agbarha-Warri Kingdom.”

  • NMGSl urges FG to halt illegal mining in Nigeria

    NMGSl urges FG to halt illegal mining in Nigeria

    The Nigerian Mining Geosciences Society (NMGS) has expressed worry over the activities of illegal miners, saying the country is losing billions of revenue.

    It said adequate funding of mine offices across the country by the federal government ensures proper monitoring of sharp practices and helps mitigate illegal mining.

    The president of the Nigerian Mining Geosciences Society, Prof. Akinade Olatunji, said this in a press conference to mark the 255th Council Meeting of the society in Uyo on Friday, June 21.

    Olatunji said that there was a need for the government to adequately fund the mine offices with qualified staff and logistics to check the menace of illegal mining. 

    He said that activities of illegal mining in the country have affected the economy and caused environmental degradation in the nation, stressing that it should not be allowed to continue.

    He called on proper funding and equipping of all federal mines offices across the federation with logistics vehicles to reach all remote areas where mining activities are being carried out.

    “Illegal mining does not take place in the city centres but in the remote areas with very little or no motorable roads and for you to monitor, you need personnel, who are qualified, motivated, energised and well-regulated.

    Read Also: Illegal Mining: FG unveils additional 350 operatives to boost mining marshals

    “Federal mines offices are supposed to be equipped with vehicles and personnel. They are supposed to have sufficient running costs to do the job, but reverse is the case.

    “Most of the mines offices are poorly staffed this is one the biggest problems we have been shouting about, they are poorly staffed.

    “For a government to be talking seriously about curbing illegal mining, they need to increase the staff strength of the mining inspectorate units.

    “One of the things we are pushing is that the staff in that unit should be treated like those in the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) on a separate salary scale.

    “So that when people are properly regulated, they will surely do the work well.

    “The government must stop playing leap service on stopping illegal mining activities in the country but should fund the mining offices properly. 

    “As a society, we frown at illegal mining because it denies the nation revenue, denies our people jobs, and also devastates the environment.

    “If illegal mining is not curtailed we will continue to see vast wasteland not useful for any other thing,” Olatunji said.

    Olatunji allayed the fears that borehole drilling was the cause of earthquakes, stressing that borehole drilling does not have any relationship with earthquakes.

    He, however, warned that indiscriminate drilling of boreholes has environmental consequences.

  • Group blasts Fubara over alleged harassment of Rivers council chairmen

    Group blasts Fubara over alleged harassment of Rivers council chairmen

    The Democracy Watch Network (DWN) has strongly condemned Governor Siminalayi Fubara for deploying suspected thugs to harass, intimidate and forcibly remove 23 local government chairmen from office. 

    The group described Fubara’s actions as a brazen assault on democracy, resulting in the tragic loss of lives and a complete breakdown of law and order in the state.

    Some youths loyal to the Governor on Tuesday stormed some local government secretariats to evict elected LG officials and destroy government properties after Governor Fubara’s address.

    In a statement by Mr Godfrey Titus, the group said Fubara’s behaviour was unacceptable and sets a dangerous precedent for the erosion of democratic norms in Nigeria. 

    Titus alleged that Fubara has shown his knack for violence, adding that the latest incident is a stark reminder of his disregard for human life and democratic principles.

    It urged the Federal Government and relevant authorities to take swift action and ensure the restoration of peace and order in Rivers State until the court rules on the matter.

    “The Democracy Watch Network (DWN) vehemently condemns the actions of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who deployed thugs to forcibly remove Local Government Chairmen from office mere hours after their tenure expired,” the statement said. 

    Read Also: BREAKING: Fubara inaugurates caretaker committee chairmen for Rivers LGAs

    “This brazen assault on democracy has resulted in the tragic loss of two lives and a complete breakdown of law and order in the state. Governor Fubara’s actions are a gross violation of the rule of law and a blatant disregard for the democratic process.

    “The case for tenure elongation for the chairmen is still pending in court, and yet, the governor chose to take the law into his own hands, employing thugs to intimidate and harass elected officials.

    “This behavior is unacceptable and sets a dangerous precedent for the erosion of democratic norms in Nigeria. Governor Fubara has a history of violence and tends to go to any length to prove a point to his perceived political opponents. This latest incident is a stark reminder of his disregard for human life and democratic principles.

    “The DWN calls on Governor Fubara to immediately reverse his decision, respect the legal process, and allow the chairmen to remain in office until the court reaches a decision.

    “We urge the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to take swift action to address this situation, ensure the restoration of peace and order in Rivers State, and hold Governor Fubara accountable for his anti-democratic actions.

    “The DWN stands in solidarity with the people of Rivers State and the affected Local Government Chairmen, and we will continue to monitor the situation closely, advocating for the upholding of democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria,” the group said. 

  • Group applauds Gov Oborevwori’s developmental strides

    Group applauds Gov Oborevwori’s developmental strides

    A group, Neo Black Movement Of Africa (NBM), has commended Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for what it described as his renewed commitments to the overall development of the State.

    The body’s national President Olorogun Ese Kakor made the commendation while speaking to news men immediately after the commissioning of Emevor-Orogun road phase 1, in Isoko North by Governor Oborevwori, as parts of the activities to mark his one year in office.

    While noting that the Governor had decided to complete strategic projects specifically designed to impact positively on the lives of the people in a particular area across the state in his first year in office, Olorogun Kakor described the Governor as a true leader who genuinely have the wellbeing of Deltans at heart.

    Kakor, a prominent member of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association Of Nigeria (IPMAN) in the State, also commended the Governor’s initiative for approving the phase 2 of the project, stressing that it goes to show he is ready to ensure diligent work rather than half hazard projects.

    NBM national President also cited the earlier commissioned of the High Court building in Asaba, the state capital, noting that such projects are very strategic as one of the states that promotes justice, equality and fairness among the people.

    “By ensuring the completion and commissioning of High Court buildings within his first year, one could see that Governor Oborevwori is a man who believes in the rule of law and would go the extra mile to ensure that justice prevails among the people across the various ethnic groups in the state.

    “You will also agree with me that the Court buildings would go a long way in creating an enabling working environment for the judiciary workers in the state and enhance their performance on the job, in order to accelerate the dispensation of justice,,” he stated.

    He further praised Oborevwori for his effort in seeing to the completion of various projects embarked upon by his predecessors even in a record time, adding that this is the beauty of having a visionary leader at the saddle.

    He appealed to Deltans to continue to support and pray for the success of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, to enable him succeed in his M-O-R-E Agenda aimed towards the development of the state and promoting the wellbeing of the people.

  • Owan leaders meet, chart new course for a united Owan

    Owan leaders meet, chart new course for a united Owan

    It was commendation galore yesterday afternoon when the leadership of both Owan East & West local government areas met to chart a new course for the Owan people.

    The meeting, which was convened and held at the country home of one time deputy governor of Edo state, Rev Dr Peter Obadan, attracted top leaders from the two local government areas.

    The convener of the meeting, Rev Obadan explained that the meeting was conveyed to enable both local work together as a united body.  

    He recalled with pains and nostalgia how the once united Owan was torn apart for selfish  political reasons by people entrusted with leadership position  in times past. 

    He reminded the house that the effect of that disunity has been the bane  “in the wheel of progress in Owan.

    “We’re here today to fashion out ways to work as one, forge common front as one big brother that we are.

    “Both Owan East & West have always been one and worked together  until selfish politicians tore us apart. So the purpose of today’s meeting is to start working together again for a better and more prosperous  future,” the eloquent former deputy governor said.

    Responding, the apex leader of Owan East, Alhaji Abdulganiyu Lawani, popularly known as Abu Millionaire, thanked Rev Obadan for calling the meeting and promised to work together to ensure that both local govts achieve the desired goal.

    Abu Millionaire

    “I am happy to be here with my people today  because I feel this meeting is long overdue  and the outcome of this all important gathering will make the Owan People stronger and stronger,” Abu Millionaire added. 

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    “Time has come for both local govts to forge a strategic alliance, develop new ideas and work as a team to present a formidable and reliable representative that will work for the Owan people.” 

    He recalled that the present disunity in Owan is as a result of the attitude of some selfish and untrustworthy leaders and such should not be entertained in a united  Owan of our dream.

    “But with meetings of this nature, I sincerely believe we are on the right track to better days. We in Owan East are ready  for this strategic alliance and we believe this will truly bring out the best for our people in terms of decision taking and purposeful representation,” he further added.

    Leaders after Leaders who spoke thanked Rev Obadan for the initiative and expressed support for the meeting. They also urged the apex leaders from both local govts   to ensure the meeting is held regularly!

    Among those who spoke were former Edo House of Assembly members, Hon Folly Ogedengbe and Hon Ojo Asein.

    Others were Hon Frank Ilaboya, Hon Reginald Okun, Hon McDonald Obasuke and Hon Hilary Ozogo.

    Victor Aigbolosumua and Deacon Anslem Ehimiaghe, also spoke eloquently, among others. 

    Over 30 leaders from both local  governments were in attendance.

    Among them were the governorship aspirant of APC in the September 21st election, Dr Earnest Afolabi Umaikhihe, Chief Lucky Ohimai, popularly known as TAREX, Minority Leader of Edo State House of Assembly,Hon Eric Okaka, former House of Assembly Member, Hon Mike Ohio Ezomo and LGA Chairmen of Owan East and West, Hon Frank David and Isah Abdulahi. Hon Justine Aig Evien, Ovbude Isewede and Rev Andy Uadia were also in attendance.

    The list also included Sir Enahoro Aikpokpo, Alhaji Alanu Salami, Hon Foly Okamaye, Eric Imonotie and Daniel Igbarogo.

    Sir Dele Ogunleye, BS Akhigbe JP, Mrs Angelina Aigbokhai and Kassim Alaska  also attended the meeting.

  • Eid-El-Kabir: Embrace virtues of Prophet Ibrahim, Ighodalo urges Muslims

    Eid-El-Kabir: Embrace virtues of Prophet Ibrahim, Ighodalo urges Muslims

    The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, Dr Asue Ighodalo, has called on the Muslim Ummah to use the occasion of the Eid-El-Kabir celebration to reflect on the teachings of Prophet Ibrahim (May Peace Be Upon Him) and strive to emulate his unwavering faith, obedience, sacrifice and dedication to the noblest of ideals.

    In his goodwill message on Sunday by his media team in Benin, Ighodalo stressed the importance of submitting to Almighty God and prioritizing spiritual well-being over worldly pleasures.

    He emphasised the necessity of selflessness, compassion, and the willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of the faith we hold dear and the good of humanity.

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    “Today represents that special occasion that reminds all adherents of the prime place of total submission to the will of Almighty Allah in complete obedience and the need to  prioritize spiritual well-being over worldly pleasures.

     “It is also a period of sober reflection on the importance of selflessness, compassion, and the willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of the faith we hold dear and the good of humanity,” he stated.

    Ighodalo urged the Muslim ummah to celebrate with moderation as they use the opportunity to reflect and express appreciation to Almighty Allah (SWT) for His countless bounties and to seek His forgiveness and guidance in all they do.

    “May this Eid bring us closer to our Creator, foster unity and harmony within our communities, and inspire us to be examples of compassion, generosity, and righteousness. May Almighty Allah (SWT) accept our prayers, our acts of worship, and our sacrifices during this blessed time. May He shower His blessings upon us, our loved ones, and the entire Muslim ummah. Eid Mubarak,” Ighodalo said.

  • Delta APC congratulates Uboh on 60th birthday

    Delta APC congratulates Uboh on 60th birthday

    The leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has congratulated Hon Doris Uboh for her 60th birthday. 

    In a joint statement signed by key party officials including Chief Omeni Sobotie, Chairman of APC Delta State, Chief Adizue Eluaka, Chairman of APC Delta North Senatorial District, Hon. Hillary Fada Ibude, Chairman of APC Ika South Local Government Area, and Hon. Samuel Ekene Kerry, Chairman of APC Ika North East Local Government Area, the party expressed pride in Uboh’s contributions to politics, governance, and public service.

    Read Also: Delta Assembly recalls suspended APC lawmaker who maligned Oborevwori

    The statement reads: “We heartily rejoice with family, friends, supporters, and associates of our esteemed leader, former member of the House of Representatives and Executive Director of Rural Electrification Fund, Hon. Engr. Doris O. Uboh MNSE, on the joyous occasion of her 60th Silver Jubilee Birthday Celebration. 

    “Your life, impacts, and achievements in politics, governance, and public service serve as a beacon of inspiration to many. We are appreciative of your unwavering support for the party in the State.”

    The Delta APC leaders also conveyed their prayers for God’s sustenance, guidance, and protection upon Hon. Engr. Doris Uboh, as they offered their goodwill and heartfelt wishes for her as she attains the enviable age of 60 years.

    The Delta APC reaffirmed commitment to working with her to further advance the party’s goals and objectives for the benefit of the people of Delta State.