The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Senator Adebule congratulates Edo governor-elect Okpebholo

    Senator Adebule congratulates Edo governor-elect Okpebholo

    The senator representing Lagos West District, Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule, has congratulated the Edo state governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on his sweet victory in the Saturday Edo state governorship election.

    Senator Adebule rejoiced with President Bola Tinubu, the officers, and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at all levels, especially, those of Edo state for working hard to secure the victory, as well as ensuring additional members to the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF).

    She hailed the people of Edo State for casting their votes for Senator Okpebholo and the APC.

    This, she said, is a confirmation that the people are hopeful of a brighter and prosperous future for Nigeria which is the main focus of the economic reforms being implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    She expressed optimism that the reforms would soon make Nigeria a better country.

    The former Lagos state deputy governor expressed confidence that Senator Okpebholo will live up to the expectations of the people of Edo State as their Governor.

    Read Also: Akpabio urges Edo governor-elect, Okpebholo, to be magnanimous in victory

    “He needs to hit the ground running. Edo people are expectant of responsive and responsible governance that will translate to peace and prosperity in the State. Edo people have freely given him their mandate to turn things around and put smiles on their faces. I am confident Senator Okpebholo has the capacity and competence to do more for his people. I wish him all the best in this onerous journey,” she said.

    She further solicited support and prayers from the people of Edo state for the incoming governor.

    Senator Adebule commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for ensuring a level playing field for all participants and ensuring smooth conduct of the exercise.

    She also commended the Nigeria Police under IGP Kayode Egbetokun and other security personnel who participated in the election for a job well done.

  • Foundation gifts school bags, learning materials to over 1,000 learners in Delta

    Foundation gifts school bags, learning materials to over 1,000 learners in Delta

    The Ernest Bebenimibo Foundation (EBF) has gifted thousands of learning materials, as well as school bags to over 1,000 primary and secondary school learners in Isaba Kingdom, Warri Southwest council area of Delta State.

    The donation which is the first phase of the foundation’s “Creek to School Legacy Project” held at Isaba Grammar School, Akori Primary School, Pereama, and Isoun Primary School, all in Isaba.

    President and founder of EBF, Dcn Ernest Bebenimibo said reaching out to the pupils and students across the kingdom, was to send a “message of hope to the students that their tomorrow can be better than today, if only they can put in hard work to their studies.”

    Items doled out include 3000 notebooks 100 mathematical sets, 100 branded school bags and 50 packs of writing materials (biros pencils, erasers sharpeners).

    Read Also: Delta North crisis: Anioma youths condemn attacks on Senator Nwoko

    The beneficiaries along with their teachers and parents expressed delight over the donations and offered heartfelt prayers for the foundation.

    Earlier, the team, during a courtesy call on the Pere of Isaba Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Ogbobere, Isoun VI, briefed the monarch and his Palace Chiefs of its assignment.

    In his remarks, the traditional ruler thanked the foundation for the good work, declaring royal blessings on the team.

  • Niger Delta lawyers task Kyari to make Port Harcourt refinery operational

    Niger Delta lawyers task Kyari to make Port Harcourt refinery operational

    The Coalition of Niger Delta Youth On Energy Reforms and Transparency in the Oil and Gas Sector has urged the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Mele Kyari, to ensure the Port Harcourt Refinery becomes operational before the end of September as he promised.

    At a press conference jointly by Barr. Dickens A. Opu and Barr. Werigbelegha Zinake, the group lamented despite the billions that have been earmarked and disbursed for the functionality of the Port Harcourt refinery, the refining plant remains non-operational.

    The group expressed concern about the energy crisis in the country caused by the non-functionality of local refineries, continued dependence on the importation of petroleum products, and the resulting cost implications for the country.

    The lawyers noted the failure of the management of the NNPC to revamp local refineries has further worsened the energy crisis and impoverished the people of the oil-producing Niger Delta, who are forced to buy fuel at higher rates than most parts of the country.

    The group alleged that the Port Harcourt refinery is being planned to be converted into a blending plant. 

    They claim that substandard petroleum products from Russia will be mixed with chemicals and sold to the people of the Niger Delta.

    The lawyers expressed concern over the potential environmental impact of converting the Port Harcourt refinery into a blending plant. 

    They expressed fear that this move could expose the people of the Niger Delta to harmful chemicals from environmental pollution and degradation caused by the waste products released into the environment. 

    The statement reads: “As we may all be aware, all is not well in the oil and gas sector in Nigeria. The level of corruption is suh that if urgent steps are not taken to address the malaise, Nigeria might go into extinction.

    “We say this with all sense of patriotism given the precarious situation in the economic outlook in the country. It is indeed worrisome that an oil-producing country like ours is experiencing an energy crisis occasioned by the non-functionality of our refineries and the continued dependence on the importation of petroleum products and the attendant cost implication for the country.

    “It is indeed a shame that successive administrations in the country have done little or nothing to ensure the functionality of the country’s refineries. For example, despite the billions of naira that have been earmarked and disbursed for the functionality of the Port Harcourt refinery, the refining plant remains comatose.”

    Read Also: BREAKING: Shettima summons Lokpobiri, Kyari over fuel crisis

    “The move by the Mele Kyari led NNPCL to convert the Port Harcourt refinery into a blending plant for substandard petroleum products from Russia and other European destinations comes with the attendant health implications for the people of the region.

    “The people would indeed be exposed to harmful chemicals from environmental pollution and degradation from the waste products that would be released into the environment as a consequence. 

    “The rot in the administration of the oil and gas sector in Nigeria is phenomenal. The Mele Kyari-led NNPCL has taken the lack of transparency and accountability to another height. The country has lost huge revenues to the activities of the cartel that is aided and abetted by the Mele Kyari-led NNPCL. We are tempted to say that the Niger Delta people have been slated for extinction.

    “The Coalition of Niger Delta Youth On Energy Reforms and Transparency in the oil and Gas Sector frowns at such a disposition which is a dangerous trend that must be halted and addressed with a sense of urgency. The Niger Delta people are an important contributor to the revenue generation of the country and as such it must not be treated with disdain and levity.

    “We are therefore calling on the federal government to look into the plight of the Niger Delta people and do all that is necessary to improve the lot of the people through the entrenchment of transparency and accountability in the administration of the oil and gas sector in the country. The first step in this regard is to ensure the full functionality of the Port Harcourt refinery and other refineries in the country.

    “The second step is to institute reforms the administration of the oil and gas sector in the country with emphasis on the oil and gas-producing communities that are home to the major source of revenue for the country. The third step is to institute a probe into the administration of the oil and gas sector by the Mele Kyari-led NNPCL.

    “We are calling on the relevant authorities to urgently address the lingering issues in the oil and gas sector in Nigeria. The socioeconomic outlook of the country is worrisome and the country does not have the luxury of time as the situation in the country is getting grimmer by the day.

    “The time to act is now and it is our firm belief that the relevant authorities would act in the best interest of the Niger Delta people and the country at large.”

  • EFCC and the Bello fever

    EFCC and the Bello fever

    By Anthony Kila

    When you think you have seen it all, someone or some office in this country shows you that things can always be worse. The latest case in the race from the mediocre to the absurd is the one offered in the saga of the case against Yahaya Bello, the former governor of Kogi state. The sheer number of descriptions of the saga, and the consensus among informed observers that the whole event is ludicrous, is a testament to the situation’s absurdity. Who is playing here, though, and with what? 

    I would have considered the whole thing farcical, too, and just left the actors to their shenanigans, but the gravity of the consequences forces one to see even when laughing. Some people opted to reduce the whole Yahaya Bello and the EFCC story to just another melodrama that will fizzle out like many other dramas in this country, but I don’t think it is right to act that way. I believe that in the case of Yahaya Bello and the EFCC, crucial elements of a civil and democratic society such as competence, transparency, freedom and respect for the rule of law are at stake and that those who dismiss or simplify the whole episode as a battle between cannibals are wrong. The rule of law is not just a concept; commonsense is not a mere option in matters of justice; they are the foundation of our civil society, and their importance cannot be overstated. 

    Lest we become guilty of what we accuse others of, we must state clearly for the record and without mincing words that the EFCC is doing a lousy job in the investigation of Yahaya Bello. There is no other way to put it, harsh or strange as it might sound: the truth and what is right must stand and be allowed to stand. 

    Just like a fever tells us something is wrong with our body and that we need treatment, the Yahaya Bello saga is telling us that there is something wrong with the EFCC, and it needs to be treated. Yahaya Bello can only be one of two things: either guilty or innocent; what he is or not will be verified and certified by the courts of law; that is a matter of justice. On the other hand, the EFCC and the people acting in its name can be many things, from competent or incompetent to mischievous or well-intentioned to objective and loyal to its mandate to selective in action and disloyal to their mandate. 

    Judging by its dealings with Yahaya Bello so far, it is easy to see why many are concluding that something is not functioning correctly in the EFCC’s operations. 

    The EFCC is the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and by its declaration, it has the mission of eradicating economic and financial crimes through prevention, enforcement, and coordination. The core values meant to guide the commission are integrity, professionalism, courage, and collaboration. 

    The EFCC’s approach to the Yahaya Bello case suggests it has abandoned its principles and is now pursuing commotion and entertainment. I pity those who have the duty of defending or explaining some of the commission’s behaviour lately. How do you describe or justify an agency that sees in its building a man they claim to have been looking for over five months and then allows the man to go away only to go and try to arrest the same man the same day? 

    More than seeking justice through gathering evidence and presenting their case in court, the EFCC seems more interested in being seen as the agency that can and did arrest Yahaya Bello. Something is wrong somewhere, and it looks like this Bello fever is just an indication of what is wrong with an agency that seems to be vying for attention rather than objective, sober and detailed investigations. Whose attention, though, is it that of the general public or some puppeteers in one corner or behind the scenes? Whichever way the EFCC acts, acting to get attention is wrong and bad. 

    It is dangerously wrong for an investigative agency to turn to an attention-seeking entity because doing so will undoubtedly lead it to divert from its mission and core values. It is embarrassingly bad for the EFCC to chase headlines or personalise issues because it exposes the agency to criticism and suspicions. All these, of course, will lead to the EFCC’s delegitimation and weakness. 

    Yahaya Bello is one man, and his case is personal; however, those who care about the system and consider the EFCC a valuable agency must ensure that what Yahaya Bello has elicited in the EFCC is treated quickly to save the system. 

    As a fever tells us to examine our body and subject it to treatment, the Bello fever in the EFCC tells us it is time to review the agency’s operations and intentions and ensure everything it does is above board. What is the EFCC’s fixation on arrest, anyway? Why can’t they gather evidence and present their case to the court of law through a prosecutor, even if the person investigated is absentia? In the case of Yahaya Bello, the man always had his lawyers talking to them. 

    Read Also: Yahaya Bello: Coalition urges National Assembly to address petition against EFCC

    When suspects are arrested, what is the point of arresting them for a few days or hours only to let them go? 

    Those who care about the integrity, efficacy, and efficiency of the EFCC need to wake up to the fact that the commission needs to be treated. A healthy EFCC that works well will deal with only facts and figures, no sensationalism or suspense, just facts, logic and law in silence and with results. 

    The Bello Fever in the EFCC is speaking loudly to us all. Nigerians of all shades need to quickly understand that if a commission charged with fighting corruption is susceptible to any form of corruption or sickness, be it of competence, malice, pecuniary or political corruption, or deficient in decorum and commonsense, then the hope of fighting corruption is dead, and worse still, our freedom is at stake. 

    *Prof Anthony Kila is an Institute Director at CIAPS. www.ciaps.org.

  • Niger Delta monarchs pledge support for Tinubu’s administration, PAP chief

    Niger Delta monarchs pledge support for Tinubu’s administration, PAP chief

    Traditional rulers from the Niger Delta have pledged their unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration and its efforts to promote peace, security, and development in the region.

    They also expressed approval of Dr. Dennis Otuaro’s appointment as the administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), describing it as well-deserved.

    The monarchs made the remarks during a stakeholders’ meeting organized by the PAP Office in Warri, Delta State.

    Themed “Working Together for Sustainable Peace, Security, Stability, and Development in the Niger Delta,” the meeting also focused on the role of traditional rulers in maintaining regional peace and stability, according to a statement by the PAP Administrator’s media aide, Igoniko Oduma.

    Speaking unanimously, the royal fathers of Tuomo kingdom, HRM King Justice F. F Tabai (retd); Kabowei kingdom, HRM King Peremobowei Erebulu; Agbon kingdom, HRM King Ogurimerime Ukori, CON; Akugebene-Mein kingdom, HRM King S.P Luke; and Ogulagha kingdom, HRM King Joseph Timiyan, stated that Niger Delta monarchs were hopeful that the people would benefit greatly from the president’s large heart for the region.

    They said: “We need to appreciate the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for finding our son worthy of that office and putting a square peg in a square hole. He (the president) should be rest assured of our full support.

    “Having listened to the plans he has for us, from our own end, we will do everything necessary to ensure that Mr President succeeds. The developmental plan he has for the Niger Delta will be given the necessary support to ensure that it is executed, and our people will be the beneficiaries in the long run.

    “We want to also assure you that you have our full support and the message should also be taken to Mr President we are in full support of all his developmental plans for the Niger Delta.”

    They further lauded Otuaro for showing the capacity and ability to run the PAP Office, stressing that the educational and vocational initiatives of his administration would impact positively on beneficiaries and communities in the region.

    The traditional rulers, however, urged him to create more opportunities and invest more in education, noting that his policy of inclusivity was commendable and far-reaching.

    Read Also: Niger Delta: Troops kill two armed vandals, arrest 18 others in war against economic sabotage

    In his remarks, the PAP boss said that traditional rulers were major stakeholders in the Niger Delta project as they play vital roles in peace-building efforts to engender stability, security, and development in the area.

    Otuaro commended the monarchs for supporting the president and his policies and programmes aimed at the betterment of the country, adding that the president was committed to the completion of the East-West Road, and also achieving a huge milestone in the Coastal Road project.

    He reiterated the resolve of his administration to deploy 500 beneficiaries for the PAP scholarship scheme and the empowerment of 1,000 youths and women involved in different types of trades and businesses.

    While applauding the strong support of the president and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu for the PAP Office, Otuaro said: “It is good to know that our revered traditional rulers are with Mr President, and Mr President is also with our traditional rulers.”

  • Okocha to Fubara: stop deceiving Rivers people

    Okocha to Fubara: stop deceiving Rivers people

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has doubted the possibility of the proposed Council elections in the State on October 5.

    The APC said there is nothing on ground to indicate that the exercise will hold on the said date; they urged Governor Siminialayi Fubara to stop deceiving Rivers people that election will hold.

    Speaking yesterday in Port Harcour the State capital, the Party Chieftain Tony Okocha said the planned exercise has generated some suits that are pending in court, even as a Federal High court in Abuja has barred the Independent National Electoral commission (INEC), from releasing voters register to the State Independent Electoral commission (RSIEC), and the Police and other security agencies from participating.

    “As far as i am concerned, the local government election is another attempt to disrespect, disregard and disobey the court and the Laws of the Land.

    “We’re in court. It is no longer news that Justice Rita of the Federal High court Abuja has given an interim order, barring INEC from release of any sensitive material to the Rivers State Independent Electoral commission(RSIEC), what that means is that voters register should not be released to RSIEC; she equally barred the police and other security agencies from participating in the election.”

    Giving a report on the council election matter before the Federal High Court in Abuja said, ruling has been adjourned indefinitely.

    He noted that some parties including the Boot Party, Social Democratic Party (ADP), and another group who claimed to be the Original APC memebers in the State indicated interest at the last sitting to be joined in the suit and their submissions have already been taken by the court.

    He reasoned that with the developments, the planned October 5, council elections would not hold, and advised those who may want to directly participate in the exercise to careful not to run into colossal loss and regrets.

    “…as it is presently, the government is still struggling between two opinions whether or not to continue with the election preparation or not.”

    He called on Governor Siminialayi Fubara to stop the “deceit games” he is playing with the emotions of the people of the State, insisting that there is no way electijns would be conducted on the State while matter concerning the planned exercise are in court.

    “The Governor should stop deceiving Rivers People. We know that it is impossible for Local Government Elections to hold when the matter is in court, and an order has been issues, and that order has also not been vacated.

    Read Also: Fubara has sworn to violate Constitution, rule of law, says Rivers Speaker Amaewhule

    “He also should know that even when dows rhat for whatever reason, maybe to show impunity…, it will amount to nullity by all cost and in all cost.”

    Speaking further, Okocha regretted that some individauls who are aspiring to paeticipate in the polls as contestants have began to place their properties, buildings and plots of land for sale, while some other are dhopping for where to access interest loans to enable them via for the positions.

    He urged them to think twice before making away with their property, insisting that the possibility of conducting council elections in the State soon is not clear.

    “I hear that some of the people who say they want to run for the chairmanship ans Councellorship have already put up their houses and lands for sale, even some are busy borrowing money, to do what?, allow the scenario to ne clemente enough, the field is not clemante for anybody to contest local government elections in Euvers State for now.”

    We have said time and again that the APC is not afraid to run an election in Rivers State, at least, not the APC I represent…, the time APC could not present candidates for election was the period of leadership ineptitude, high handedness and the penchant to say no…,

    “We’re not scared of elections, we’re only saying that the processes should be seen to have followes the law, it is not an election that will be held at individuals whins and caprices, we will not advocate for that; this is what we have been saying long ago.” he insisted.

    Speaking on the matter concerning Martin Amaewhule led 25 State Lawmakers , Okocha again denied that they are members of his Party.

    He reiterated that all he has been doing since the crisis in PDP platform was to see a way to woo them into the APC, insisting that they are members of the PDP and not APC.

    “The Assembly members have said over and over again that they are not members of the All Progressives Congress and i can confirm to you that they are not.

    “What we’re doing with them is to woo them to joining us. We’re doing that because we discovered that they are having their own internal crisis in their party.

    “Some people are saying that that flew the flag of the APC, that they did that on a national television, that they swore Affidavits that they are members of the APC, and I am speaking to you in all authority that they never indicated to join that All Progressives Congress, at least i am incharge.

    “It would have been joy for me that they joined the APC. No assembly member even by default registered in APC in their ward …you become a member of your party from your ward,…you register in your ward register, but non of them.did, non of them has our membership card.”

    He aplauded the recent Abuja High court judgement that affirmed Amaewhule Speaker of the State House of Asembly, describing i as sound.

  • Pikolo congratulates Edo governor-elect Okpebholo

    Pikolo congratulates Edo governor-elect Okpebholo

    Senator Monday Okpebholo has received heartfelt congratulations following his recent election as the Governor of Edo State.

    In a statement from Eromosele Ehigie Daniel, also known as Pikolo, the senator was praised for his leadership qualities and unwavering dedication to the progress of the state.

    Daniel highlighted Okpebholo’s victory as a triumph for all Edolites, emphasizing its significance beyond political affiliations.

    “Your emergence heralds a new era of prosperity, unity, and development,” he stated, recognizing Okpebholo as a “beacon of hope” and a model of integrity and accountability.

    During the campaign, Pikolo initiated a viral campaign slogan known as “breaking news”.

    He became popular and associated with Senator Monday Okpebholo, he didn’t shy away like most people who will soon start flocking around the incoming governor.

    Expressing his commitment to support the new administration, Daniel conveyed confidence in Okpebholo’s ability to lead the state towards unprecedented growth, peace, and happiness. He reiterated his pledge to contribute to the success of the governor’s vision for a better Edo State.

    In a letter personally signed by Pikolo, it read: “Your Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, I extend my warmest and most sincere congratulations on your well-deserved victory as the Governor of Edo State. Your emergence is a testament to your exceptional leadership qualities, unwavering dedication, and unrelenting passion for the progress of our beloved state.

    Read Also: Dafinone congratulates Edo Governor-Elect Okpebholo

    “You are a shining example of selfless service, a beacon of hope, and a visionary leader who embodies the values of integrity, transparency, and accountability. Your victory is a victory for all Edolites, regardless of political affiliation, as it heralds a new era of prosperity, unity, and development.

    “As someone who holds you in high esteem, I am proud to call you a father figure. Your leadership inspires me, and I am committed to supporting your administration wholeheartedly. I am confident that your administration will be enviable, and I pledge to contribute my quota to ensure its success.

    “May your tenure be marked by unprecedented growth, peace, and happiness for all Edolites. May your vision for a better Edo State be realized, and may your legacy be etched in the annals of history as a transformative leader.

    “Once again, congratulations, Your Excellency. May God bless you, guide you, and grant you the wisdom to lead our state to greatness.”

    As Okpebholo embarks on his tenure, the community looks forward to transformative leadership that promises to leave a lasting legacy in the state’s history.

  • Nwoko urges Delta to harness Ogwashi-Uku dam for water, electricity, agric

    Nwoko urges Delta to harness Ogwashi-Uku dam for water, electricity, agric

    Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North) has intensified efforts to ensure the people of Delta State benefit from the full potential of the Ogwashi-Uku dam. 

    The Senator has been vocal about the dam’s transformative potential, urging Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to complete the necessary infrastructure to activate the dam’s multi-functional capacities fully.

    The Federal Government, in a recent communication to Senator Nwoko, confirmed that it had fulfilled its responsibilities concerning the dam’s construction. 

    The letter, signed by Minister of Water Resources & Sanitation June 26, 2024 (ref. No. FMWR&S/DRO/29/5.IV/C.2/T/342), emphasised that the Federal Government’s role, including the construction of the dam, had been completed. 

    The letter highlighted the urgent need for the Delta State Government to build a water treatment plant and install a piping system to deliver potable water to homes and farms.

    It also urged the State Government to collaborate with the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA), to which the Federal Government handed over the dam upon its completion in 2019, to ensure the effective utilization of the impounded water.

    The Ogwashi-Uku dam, once fully operational, promises to deliver three critical services to the region: “Potable Water Supply: The dam has the capacity to provide clean, treated water to households in over 70 surrounding communities.

    “The construction of a water treatment plant by the State Government is essential to ensure safe drinking water reaches every home.

    “Irrigation for Agricultural Development: The dam will supply water for irrigation, supporting local farmers and boosting food production, thereby enhancing food security in the state.

    Read Also: Tension in Abia community over death of middle-aged man

    “Power Generation: In addition to water supply, the dam has the potential to generate electricity, which could significantly improve energy supply in the region.”

    Nwoko, the only serving Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Senator in Delta State, has been relentless in his pursuit of this cause. 

    He has held multiple discussions with key figures, including former Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, emphasizing the urgency of completing the dam’s infrastructure.

     Despite these efforts, the Delta State Government has frequently cited financial constraints as a barrier, insisting that the Federal Government should bear responsibility for the remaining tasks.

    Nwoko argued that the State Government must prioritise the welfare of its citizens by completing the necessary infrastructure.

     He believed improved infrastructure, particularly in water supply, power generation, and agricultural support, will lead to economic growth and improved living standards for the people of Delta State.

    In his continued advocacy, Nwoko has been vocal on national platforms, asserting that Nigeria is a wealthy nation, and its citizens should not suffer from basic needs. 

    He has called for greater cooperation between the Federal and State Governments, stressing that such collaboration is key to making life more bearable for the people of Delta State.

    In addition to his efforts on the Ogwashi-Uku dam, Nwoko has initiated plans for a second dam in Idumuje-Ugboko, which has already been included in the federal budget. 

    His commitment to improving living conditions and empowering the agricultural sector is unwavering, but he insists that the Delta State Government must step up to fulfill its role in completing the Ogwashi-Uku dam project.

    Nwoko envisions a future where every home in Delta North has access to clean water, farmers are empowered with irrigation systems, and the state fully harnesses its power-generating potential.

     To achieve this vision, he calls for cooperation and commitment from all stakeholders, particularly the State Government.

  • Int’l Police’s African head Akinlosotu leads Edo election observation troop

    Int’l Police’s African head Akinlosotu leads Edo election observation troop

    The High Council of Administration (HCA) announced has appointed the African Head, Col. Blessing Akinlosotu to head the International Police Chaplain Sustainable Development and Law Enforcement, Inc. (IPCSL) troops to Edo for election observation. 

    This was after accreditation of the group by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) among 10. major foreign organisations for the electoral observation to Edo and Ondo Governorship Elections slated for September 21 and November 16 respectively. 

    According to the letter from the headquarters in Florida,: “Observation mission, IPCSL will be represented by a delegation from five (5) countries. We will be in the polling stations and will publish a report before 7th October 2024 for Edo as required by the INEC. 

    “In its terms, the first delegation of the IPCSL for the Edo State Elections scheduled for 21st September will be led by our Regional Coordinator of Afnca Amb. / Chaplain Col Blessing A. Akinlosotu as Head of Mission According to the Ambassador, the Chaplain General/ Amb. Wilkenson CESAR, Vice-President of the High Council of IPCSL Florida, USA. The Head of the mission for the second delegation of observers of the Ondo State elections will be published to the public before 16th November. 

    “While working tirelessly on the dynamism and leadership of our Africa Coordinator and the Collaborator with his team, all arrangements will be made for the proper execution of the mission. 

    Read Also: Edo election: IGP bans VIP’s security aides, escorts

    “Remember that the INTERNATIONAL POLICE CHAPLAIN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND LAW ENFORCEMENT, INC. (IPCSL) is an American non-profit organization based in Florida, USA. Established for charitable, religious, scientific and educational purposes, it contributes to the Promotion and sustainable development (SDGs) in the world and also to the application of the law through the ministry of chaplaincy within the Nations. Its objective is subdivided into seven sections: the defence of human rights, the fight against illegal immigration, it is against  drugs, the fight against gender-based violence, the fight against child trafficking, the fight against global warming and the fight against hunger and poverty.”

    While reacting to the responsibility, Akinlosotu emphasised commitment to the Edo voters assuring within his jurisdiction, their votes would be counted and that his team would diligently fulfill their responsibilities. 

    He expressed confidence in upholding the integrity of the electoral process, reinforcing the importance of transparency and accountability in ensuring a fair and credible election. His dedication aims to foster trust and confidence among the community in the electoral system.

  • Iyere’s withdrawal from Edo guber race boosts Enabulele’s candidacy

    Iyere’s withdrawal from Edo guber race boosts Enabulele’s candidacy

    In what appeared to be a surprising turn of events, Kennedy Iyere announced his withdrawal from the Edo State governorship race.

    Iyere, who was vying for the governorship position in Edo State under Accord Party, stated that he would be focusing on unpolitical programmes, giving boost to Dr. Bright Enabulele’s candidacy.

    In a statement in which he made this disclosure, Iyere stated that he made the decision to focus on other things.

    “I urge the citizens to vote with their conscience and prioritise candidates who genuinely care about the welfare of our communities,” he was quoted as saying.

    Read Also: Edo 2024: Iyere withdraws from guber race

    Insiders in the Accord Party, in their reaction to this development, expressed the belief that Enabulele remains a strong contender in the election and that yere’s withdrawal may streamline support for Enabulele, potentially consolidating votes around the strongest candidate who shares the party’s vision for progressive governance.

    “Iyere’s exit from the race highlights the need for collaboration among candidates who prioritise the people’s needs,” one insider remarked. “I strongly believe that this exit was made in the best interests of our party, and could galvanise support and drive support for Enabulele.”

    Political analysts, in their reactions, stated that as Enabulele concluded his campaign, his candidacy is expected to leverage the momentum created by Iyere’s withdrawal.

    Amongst other things, they noted that even though Enabulele had stopped campaigning in compliance with the regulation of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), eligible voters in Edo would see a candidate committed to addressing pressing issues in the state, such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, in Enabulele.