The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • My plans for Edo’s growth, prosperity, by Ighodalo

    My plans for Edo’s growth, prosperity, by Ighodalo

     The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, Dr Asue Ighodalo, has unveiled his plans for the growth and prosperity of the state.

    The document, which was released on Monday and titled “The Pathway to Prosperity for All”, detailed what Ighodalo has in stock for the people of the state if voted into power.  

    Ighodalo, in the manifesto,identified where the state is, where it wants to be and what to do to get there. 

    The document  focuses on critical areas such as security, infrastructure development, healthcare delivery, and education, employment and a while lot of things that promises to positively lift the living standard of the people and spread prosperity among them. 

    The manifesto deals with the economic transformation that will involve the diversification of the economy, promote industrialization, and create jobs.

    On infrastructure development, Ighodalo promises to improve road networks, water supply, and electricity.

    On education, he said the focus will be to revamp the education sector, improve teacher training, and increase access to quality education.

    Upgrading healthcare facilities, improving healthcare services, and reducing infant mortality will be the focal points in healthcare delivery.

    Read Also: ‘Obidients’ assure Ighodalo of support

    In all his physical engagements, Ighodalo had always spoken passionately about prioritising security. He believes that once a government can ensure the safety and security of all citizens, tackle kidnapping and armed robbery, a lot of things will fall in place.

    He has also emphasised good governance which will involve promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness in government.

    In the days and weeks ahead, the full manifesto will continue to unfold even as people review it in the run up to the election. 

  • Ighodalo shines at meeting with Edo Diaspora community in Italy

    Ighodalo shines at meeting with Edo Diaspora community in Italy

    The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, Dr Asue Ighodalo, shone brightly on Monday night at his first engagement with Edo Diaspora Community in Europe.

    The meeting which  held at the Reggio, Emilia Via Cherubino Forzani, Reggio Emilia, 

    Italy recorded an impressive attendance. 

    Ighodalo, who was accompanied by his wife, Mrs Ifeyinwa Ighodalo, to the meeting, spoke extensively on his plan for Edo State  to intermittent rapturous applause from the attendees. 

    The meeting, which coincided with the release of his widely acknowledged Manifesto, “The Pathway to Prosperity for All,” saw him made copious references to the document which enjoyed massive rave review on social media upon release. 

    Ighodalo appealed to his audience to support his dream to make Edo State a first world sub-national in Nigeria. He insisted that it was doable.

    “Our idea of a pathway to prosperity for all is done with a view to plan and implement the next phase of our journey towards becoming a first world sub-national. 

    “We have to harness our God-given resources and the immense potentials of our people; and translate them into shared and inclusive prosperity for all. 

    “I believe it can be done. That’s why I am running for the office of Governor,” he declared to a loud applause.

    The presentation was followed by a lengthy question and answer session. Ighodalo answered the questions ranging from security to infrastructure, economy, food security, Diaspora Commission, health, agriculture and many more. 

    Read Also: Edo 2024: Group holds symposium to support PDP’s Ighodalo

    The PDP candidate was able to, time and again, reference his manifesto on how he intends to provide solution to all the questions if elected on September 21 as the Governor of Edo State. 

    He highlighted some of the areas where the present government of Governor Godwin Obaseki has done marvelously well and pledged to build on them and said if there are any area that needs adjustment, he would do that.

     Ighodalo thanked those who were able to make it to the meeting for their time and show of love for Edo State and support for his aspirations. He assured them that he would not disappoint nor fail them as governor if he is elected. 

    The next leg of the engagement will be in Manchester, the United Kingdom, on June 26.

  • 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. 

    Read Also: Asari Dokubo felicitates Lulu-Briggs at 60

    “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.  

    Read Also: ‘How N/Delta communities can combat impact of climate change’

    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.

  • Fubara applauded for allowing former Rivers LG officials complete tenure

    Fubara applauded for allowing former Rivers LG officials complete tenure

    The National Vanguard for Rule of Law (NVRL) has commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State for upholding the democratic tenets and allowing elected Local Government officials to complete their three-year tenure.

    The group said in an era where some goyvernors undermine the democratic process by truncating the mandate of duly elected officials, Fubara’s commitment to the rule of law and democratic governance is a refreshing respite.

    Recall that 23 local government chairmen, vice and councillors recently vacated their offices after the expiration of their tenure.

    In a statement by Comrade Johnson Babatunde, the NVRL said by allowing the elected LG officials to complete their tenure, Governor Fubara has demonstrated an uncommon respect for the will of the people, who overwhelmingly elected these officials to serve them.

    Babatunde said this gesture was a clear indication that the Governor is a true democrat, a defender of the people’s rights, and a leader who prioritises the welfare and interests of his people above personal or political considerations.

    The group hailed Governor Fubara as a champion of democracy, a shining star in the firmament of Nigerian politics, and a role model for other leaders to emulate.

    Read Also: Fed Govt reaffirms commitment to implement biological weapons convention

    “The National Vanguard for Rule of Law commends the Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara for allowing the 23 democratically elected local government chairmen and councilors in Rivers State to complete their 3 years tenure in office,” the statement said.

    “Unlike his counterpart in Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, who without provocation dismantled the democratically elected local government chairmen and councilors he inherited from his predecessor, despite a court order restraining him from doing so, Governor Fubara allowed and supported the local government chairmen and councilors to complete their tenure, which came to en end on June 17th, 2024.

    “Despite the provocation from the local government chairmen because of their allegiance to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Governor Fubara once again displayed his democratic credentials by not truncating the tenure of the chairmen and their councilors.

    “We call on other Governors in the country today and in the future to emulate Governor Fubara in upholding democracy and the rule of law and also respecting the third tier of government.

    “The immediate past local government chairmen in Rivers State also need to appreciate Governor Fubara for his magnanimity democratic credentials and for upholding the rule of law. “

  • 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.