A Federal High Court in Abuja has overturned the arrest warrant issued against Edison Ehie, Chief of Staff to the Rivers Governor, in connection with the October 30, 2023, fire incident at the Rivers House of Assembly.
Justice Emeka Nwite, who had initially ordered Ehie’s arrest on January 31, declared the warrant null and void during the court session on Thursday.
The ruling also extended to the 2nd-5th Defendant/Applicants in the same suit.
The court’s decision came following an application to set aside the arrest warrant, arguing that Ehie was mistakenly linked to the incident.
The police had accused Ehie and five others, including Jinjiri Bala, Happy Benedict, Progress Joseph, Adokiye Oyagiri, and Chibuike Peter alias Rambo, of orchestrating the bombing as part of a plot to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
During the proceedings, Ehie’s legal team, consisting of prominent lawyers including Falana SAN, Wole Oladoye SAN, Dr. Bimpe Ajegbomogun, and Barr Asmau Yakubu, vehemently argued against the jurisdiction of the court in handling the matter.
They emphasised that the alleged crimes fell within the purview of state offences and questioned the Inspector-General of Police’s decision to file the application in the Federal High Court in Abuja instead of courts in Rivers State where the incidents occurred.Furthermore, the legal team highlighted the absence of any invitation from the police to Ehie for questioning, emphasizing that his name was mentioned in the charges without being listed among the defendants.
In response, the court ruled in favor of setting aside the arrest warrant, citing lack of jurisdiction to entertain the matter and the need for the Attorney General of Rivers State’s fiat to prosecute state offences.
Following the verdict, Dr. Bimpe Ajegbomogun expressed satisfaction with the judgement, stating that it reaffirmed the Judiciary’s role as the last hope of the common man.
“The ruling marks a significant development in the case, offering a glimmer of hope for Ehie and the other defendants, and underscoring the importance of due process and fair trial in the country’s legal system,” he stressed.
Eulogies are pouring in foremost All Progressive Congress (APC) chieftain in Delta State, businessman and philanthropist, Chief Ayirimi Emami who turns 49 on Friday.
Grassroots politician and development advocate, Mr Erefoluwa Keka described Chief Emami as “a bulwark of the Itsekiri nation, a foremost protector and projector of the Itsekiri history, traditional heritage.”
Keka particularly enthused the APC chieftain’s “courage and patriotism to Iwere nation, your philanthropy and determination are unmatched. These virtues will continue to propel you to greater heights, despite the antics and ingratitude of others.”
He said Emami has excelled in business and politics, stating that “your larger-than-life image has daunted many. I pray that God will continue to lift you higher as you march on as the face of a conquering matador of Warri Kingdom.”
Keka described Chief Emami as a prominent politician and business magnate ” always ready to advance the career of talented and hardworking people, irrespective of their tribe, religious and political affiliations.”
According to Keka, the ingratitude of individuals whom Chief Emami has helped over the years has not deterred him from exploring ways of serving Itsekiri Nation positively and growing the membership of All Progressives Congress in Warri South, Warri South-West and Warri North Local Government Areas of Delta state.
While praying to God to sustain His grace on Chief Emami, ” to enable him to maintain the tempo of his steady progress in business and politics”, Keka, expressed optimism that God will continually bless the APC Chieftain with sound health and longevity.
A book ‘The vain Ijaw struggle’ highlighting the challenges and quest for the development of the Ijaw nation and pursuit of economic and political growth of the Niger Delta region is set for launch.
The formal launch and symposium is scheduled foe Rococo Restaurant, Victoria Island, Lagos on Thursday, April 25, 2024.
Written by a one-time president of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Engineer Elvis Donkemezuo, the book discusses the intricate details of the struggles of the Ijaw people within the context of a search for social, political, and economic emancipation.
The book also draws inference from historical events dating back to the Kaiama Declaration, and buttresses the author’s avowed and strongly held opinion on the pathway to restoring and reviving the ambition of a better and progressive Ijaw nation within Nigeria.
The gathering aims to attract leading historians, scholars, politicians, and interested individuals keen on exploring the nuances of Ijaw nationalism.
The event will be chaired by Chief Samuel Ogbuku, PhD, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC); Mother of the Day will be the wife of former pryesident Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Dame Patience Jonathan. Chief Host of the event is Chief Raymond Dokpesi Jr., the Chairman of Daar Communications while King Mozi Agara who is the Igbediaowei of Kolokuma will be the royal father of the day.
Donkemezuo said the book set out to appraise some of the impending issues that are contributing to the underdevelopment of the Ijaw nation.
The book highlights how the struggle for Ijaw ethnic emancipation started, the direction of where it was supposed to be headed, and the inability of the frontline activists to coordinate the agenda toward enabling both economic and political emancipation for the people hence the seemingly stunted progress
The official launch of this book will afford historians, academicians, and the general public a rare chance to have an encounter with and a complete overview of the Ijaw nationalist vision and the author’s overarching idea for a stronger, united, and prosperous Ijaw nation.
Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Army Staff for their instrumental roles in securing the release of His Royal Majesty, King Clement Ikolo, Urhukpe 1, the revered monarch of Ewu-Urhobo Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Following the distressing incident at Okuama leading to the detention of King Clement Ikolo, Dafinone engaged tirelessly with relevant authorities to ensure that the monarch is released.
The Delta Central lawmaker in collaboration with his colleagues, Senators Ned Nwoko (Delta North) and Joel Onowakpo-Thomas (Delta South) interfaced with the military authorities to ensure that the monarch was freed.
Following their interventions the monarch was on Friday released to Senator Dafinone by the military authority at the Defence Headquarters around 11am with an understanding that the senator will make the king available should his attention be needed.
“Today, I commend the swift and decisive actions taken by President Bola Tinubu and the Chief of Defence Staff in addressing this matter with the urgency and seriousness it deserved.
“The release of His Royal Majesty, King Clement Ikolo, Urhukpe 1, brings a sense of relief and reassurance to our community. I am deeply grateful to Mr President, Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Musa, Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja and the entire military leadership for their unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens.
“I also wish on behalf of the Urhobo nation to thank my colleague senators from Delta North, Senator Ned Nwoko and Delta South, Senator Joel Onowakpo-Thomas for their invaluable contributions to the release of our dear king.
“As a staunch advocate for justice and accountability, I pledge my continued support to the efforts aimed at uncovering the truth behind the unfortunate incident and bringing the perpetrators to justice,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration between government, security agencies and community leaders to safeguard the peace and stability of our nation.
Dafinone also extended heartfelt appreciation to all individuals and organisations, particularly the media who contributed to the resolution of this matter.
Edo State’s 2024 gubernatorial election may turn out to be more complex than previous elections in the State where the outcomes were largely predictable. This time around, there are several intricacies that may leave the discerning voters thinking deeply before casting their votes. Its complex nature stems from the key themes around which the campaigns will be centered, and upon which the electorate’s decision will be based. The themes include, but not limited to issues of competence, character, ethnicity, grassroots loyalty and performance. When these themes are juxtaposed with the current political party structures vis-à-vis the candidates that will be on the ballot, the voter easily finds himself or herself enmeshed in a complex web of decision-making triggers. This situation obviously excludes die-hard partisan politicians who irrespective of the odds against their party’s candidate will have no choice but to vote for their party.
Today, Edo voters are in a catch-22 situation. The Labour party without a strong political structure is cleverly fielding a candidate from Edo South Senatorial zone which has the highest number of votes put at circa 58 percent of the total votes in Edo, while their deputy is from Edo North with approximately 24 percent of total votes. They have also chosen Olumide Akpata, a candidate with verifiable academic records and a national figure having been the president of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA. Their obvious strategy is to go to where the large populations of voters are and appeal to the sentiments of non-partisan voters who will rather choose their own over political party. As it stands, their governorship and deputy governorship candidates have a combined voting strength of 82 percent of total voting population. They may also benefit from a section of the unbiased elites who will consider the candidates’ professional and academic background to decide.
At a glance, this looks good for the Labour Party. However, their greatest challenge is that the frenzy that greeted the Labour Party because of Peter Obi and the Obidient movement has disappeared into thin air and the party has remained obscure. The emergence of the candidate did not also come without issues as there were allegations of a dollarized primary election, which left some of the party members disgruntled. There is also the general sentiment within the Bini speaking populace that in the spirit of equity, fairness, and justice, it is the turn of Esan to produce the next governor of Edo State. This objective stance from certain quarters may therefore prevent a clear-cut translation of the theoretical population advantage to reality on Election Day.
For the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, their choice of candidate, Asue Ighodalo from Edo Central senatorial zone, has been largely acclaimed as the best amongst the three major political parties. His academic and professional records are in public domain, and they stand him out as very tall in the race. He also comes with a rich corporate background having served as chairman of reputable institutions and organisations like Sterling Bank, Nigerian Breweries, Nigerian Economic Summit Group among others. He is one of those you can easily say in Nigeria’s political parlance, has a “second address’’ and he appears refined and ready for the job. He also enjoys the sentiments of Edo Central Senatorial district because Esan people believe that this is the turn of an Esan man to be at the helm of affairs in Edo State. PDP has also strategically chosen a deputy governorship candidate from Edo South to wrestle some of the votes from the most populous part of the State.
The choice of Osarodion Ogie as the deputy governorship candidate of the PDP comes with its own advantages. He is one man who has no publicly known enemy whether within or outside of his political party. He has been referred to in many quarters as Mr Loyalty and has an uncommon attribute that keeps him out of trouble no matter how turbulent the terrain is. He appears to work within the shadows with both his friends and enemies and has continued to enjoy quiet and peaceful relationships with people across all political divides and traditional grassroots voters. The popular debate in public space is that his candidature is capable of swaying Edo South votes in PDP’s favour.
However, it may not also be an easy victory for the PDP because of the “sins” and unfulfilled promises of the incumbent governor, Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki and the unending in-fighting between the legacy PDP and Obaseki’s faction of the party. Obaseki who is seen as a close associate and political godfather of Asue has come with a lot of baggage that may rub off negatively on Asue Ighodalo. Obaseki spent only the first two years of his administration focusing on the critical task of governance which quickly earned him the sobriquet, “Wake and See Governor”. This alias has since disappeared from both print and electronic media because his name has become synonymous with unnecessary fights. First was the fight within the APC which eventually led to his exit from the party, and thereafter he went to create another war within the then peaceful PDP. He also refused to swear in 14 lawmakers that were duly elected to represent their people, and then his fight with the revered traditional institution and lately, his fight with his deputy and accidental partner who was recently impeached amidst huge celebration within the circles of those who abhor betrayers.
The APC appears to be the strongest political party as at today, even with the recent upset that was triggered by their party primaries. The primary election, which was poorly managed, left some bruises within the party and also exposed some of the silent party leadership tussle which has been kept under wraps since APC was pushed into opposition with the exit of Godwin Obaseki in 2020. The fight for APC’s ticket became almost a do-or-die affair because of the assumption that whoever gets the APC’s ticket automatically becomes the governor of Edo State. This assumption which may not be unconnected with the promise of President Bola Tinubu to “get Edo back” for APC, led to the sudden realization for some players that there is a need to seize the opportunity to fight for the leadership of the party. The battle eventually led to the choice of Senator Monday Okpeholo, aka Akpakomiza as the party’s candidate. The APC’s candidate, Akpakomiza as he is generally called, was relatively unknown in Edo State politics until 2023 when he contested and won the Edo Central Senatorial seat to represent Esan people in the National Assembly. His academic and professional records are also not in the public domain. Only recently a secondary school certificate with poor grades, bearing his name surfaced on the internet and several social media platforms leading to claims and counter claims about the authenticity of the result. There was also a recent video which showed the candidate struggling to read a written script that again generated debate in and around his academic soundness and finesse. However, the huge advantage that he has going for him is his timid nature which has largely endeared to the downtrodden that believe that good governance goes beyond the ability to speak Queen’s English.
In closing my thoughts, I’d like to highlight the fact that it will be a Herculean task for the Edo electorate to make a choice, and the party that will eventually win will need to think out of the box and work extra smart without ego or any form of primordial biases. This is particularly important because Edo’s voting public is largely educated and politically wise. There is an undying thirst for good governance and a return to the path of meaningful development. As a result of this determination to ensure positive change in Edo State, sentiments and emotions will take the backstage while critical analysis and focus on issues will take center stage. However, this assertion does not completely take away the fact that according to Harold Lasswell, politics is about who gets what, when and how.
Gideon Obhakhan is former Edo Commissioner for Education, and former Secretary, Public Affairs Directorate, Tinubu/Shettima Presidential campaign Council
Critical stakeholders in the Niger Delta region, from the academic, thought leaders, experts in different fields and policy makers on Wednesday met at a public lecture series hosted by Advocate Newspaper to x-ray and proffer solutions to Nigeria’s leadership challenges.
The theme of the public lecture marking the 10th anniversary of the Newspaper was “Youth empowerment and leadership evolution: Rethinking Nigeria’s leadership recruitment process.”
The event, held at the prestigious Wetland Hotel in Ughelli attracted distinguished personalities from various sectors of society.
Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) was the special guest of honour represented by his Chief of Staff, Chief Adelabu Bodjor. Olorogun Fred Majemite, a renowned lawyer and former Commissioner in Delta State, graced the occasion as the guest of honour. The event was chaired by Sir Elvis Oharisi, a prominent businessman.
The highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered by Professor Enajite Ojaruega, an erudite scholar and Professor of African Literature in the Department of English and Literary Studies at Delta State University, Abraka.
Ojaruega shed light on the complexities of leadership, emphasizing that it is a fusion of both inherent traits and external influences.
He said: “Leadership as we perceive it is a fusion of nature and nurture. Some leaders are born, some are made.” He also stressed the importance of youthfulness of mind, stating, “Rather, we should look at the essence of youth as transcending mere numerical boundaries, to embody a state of mind characterized by vitality, creativity, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of progress.”
Drawing attention to the untapped potential of youth population, Ojaruega highlighted the obstacles of disempowerment, marginalisation, and lack of opportunities that hinder their contribution to society.
According to her: “Under optimal circumstances, the composition of the country’s population should ordinarily hint at a wealth of untapped potential awaiting harnessing for groundbreaking and expansive endeavors.”
In her analysis of the flaws in leadership recruitment and empowerment processes, Ojaruega identified the enduring effects of colonialism, entrenched political interests, and limited opportunities as major culprits. He stated, “This foundational failure of Nigeria’s leadership recruitment processes has led to social stratification, alienation, and marginalisation, particularly among the youth.”
The discussion panel featured three additional experts who shared their insights on the topic. Edewor Egedegbe, a prominent social commentator, stressed the need to distribute blame equally among the youth, leadership, and society.
He argued: “We should share the blame equally. Equally.” Egedegbe further highlighted the value drift in society as a root cause of the problem, stating, “For me, that’s the beginning of the problem. When people do not give up, they don’t give up. They give room for excellence. We now thrive in mediocrity. This is what you get.”
Dr. Harvey Igben, another panelist and esteemed economist, emphasised the importance of collaboration between the private sector and the government to enable policies and their effective implementation.
He stated: “The contribution must come from both the private sector and the government. But enabling the environment for the private sector to be able to do whatever it takes to do whatever it has to do.” Dr. Igben also raised concerns about the reward system and policy implementation in Nigeria, questioning the extent of transformation that takes place within correctional institutions.
Edewor Egedegbe, a youth empowerment advocate, urged the youth to change their approach and not rely solely on public sector participation. He emphasized the significance of empowering the mind through programs like his leadership school. Egedegbe stated, “It will only end when the youth change her approach.” He further highlighted the importance of acquiring knowledge through reading and emphasized the values of hard work and humility.
Barrister Ejiro Etaoghene, another discussants, echoed the sentiment of self-empowerment and emphasized the need for youth to take initiative. He encouraged them to read and acquire knowledge, stating, “Don’t wait to be empowered. Empower yourself. Go and read books.” Barrister Etaoghene emphasized the importance of hard work and humility as key factors for success, urging the youth to be obedient and diligent.
Professor Rukevwe Ugwumba, also a discussants, a professor of family medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Canad, and a politician of note in her submission said that for Nigeria to get it’s leadership right, there must be a delebrate policy to enthrone meritocracy above nepotism, tribalism sexism, elitism and corruption in our electoral system which undermines our leadership recruitment process.
Speaking to newsmen, Mr. Shedrack Onitsha, the Chief Executive Officer of Advocate Publications Limited, expressed gratitude for the challenging yet rewarding journey of the past decade.
He acknowledged the support received from friends and associates and highlighted the platform provided by the Advocate Newspaper to nurture young journalists who have become renowned names in the field.
Onitsha revealed plans for rebranding and enhancing their activities, promising a more robust and engaging contribution to Nigeria and Africa.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has honoured the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) with an award for being a worthy partner in building the security architecture of the country.
Presenting the award to the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, in Abuja, the Inspector&General of Police, IGP, Olukayode Egbetokun, said that the inaugural awards and commendation ceremony, was to honour outstanding officers of the Police Force, as well as the NDDC in appreciation of its support to the police force over the years.
A statement signed by the NDDC Director, Corporate Affairs, Pius Ughakpoteni, said the NDDC was the only corporate body that received an award at the ceremony attended by Nigerian’s Vice President, Alhaji Kashim Shettima who represented President Bola Tinubu.
Also, in attendance were the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, other top government officials, security chiefs and a host of prominent personalities.
The IGP commended the NDDC for its assistance to law enforcement agencies across board, stressing that the partnership had helped address and reduce crime rates in the Niger Delta region.
He acknowledged the proactive approach of the Commission in handling security issues and commended Dr Ogbuku for his effective leadership.
He said: “The Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations Ceremony is an initiative aimed at recognizing and rewarding outstanding officers within the Nigerian Police Force who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, bravery, and professionalism in the line of duty.
“We appreciate the NDDC for contributing to the overall safety and security in Nigeria.”
Speaking at the event, Ogbuku reiterated the commitment of the interventionist agency towards enhancing peace and security in Nigeria as well as fostering greater partnerships with security agencies.
He pledged the commission’s support to implementing strategies that would combat criminal activities, particularly in the Niger Delta region, including theft, vandalism, and illegal oil bunkering, amongst others.
The Middle-Belt Pan Nigerian Forum has appealed to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to disregard the baseless calls on the review of Oil Pipeline Surveillance Contracts awarded to some firms and contractors.
The group stated that the contractors have been instrumental in safeguarding the integrity of the nation’s oil pipelines and preventing destructive acts of vandalism.
In a statement released by its spokesman, Danladi Ceceko Dangana, the forum applauded the federal government in its tireless efforts to protect the country’s valuable national assets and oil facilities through the implementation of vital surveillance contracts.
It said: “It is an undeniable fact that President Tinubu is utilizing his authority and resources to ensure the safeguarding of our oil assets.
“Middle-Belt Pan Nigerian Forum firmly stands by President Tinubu, extending its heartfelt gratitude for his commitment to protecting our national assets, which has undoubtedly resulted in increased crude oil production and economic prosperity for our great nation.
“The Middle-Belt Pan Nigerian Forum urges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remain resolute and steadfast in his support of the Oil Pipeline Surveillance Contracts, recognizing their indispensable role in fortifying the security of Nigeria’s oil infrastructure and preserving the country’s sovereignty.
“The group reiterates its support for President Tinubu’s visionary leadership and his unyielding dedication to the protection of Nigeria’s vital resources.”
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC) has made it clear that despite the insinuations in the media, commentaries and trending public opinions, the investigation of alleged corruption was not against any individual but a holistic probe of the Humanitarian Ministry from past administrations.
In a statement on Sunday in Abuja titled: “Setting the records straight on investigations of Humanitarian Ministry” by Dele Oyewale, Head, Media and Publicity, the commission said it is investigating a system and intricate web of fraudulent practices in the era of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.
The EFCC added that discreet investigations have opened on other fraudulent dealings involving Covid -19 funds, the World Bank loan, Abacha recovered loot released to the Ministry by the Federal Government to execute its poverty alleviation mandate.
The statement reads in part: “The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has noticed the rising tide of commentaries, opinions, assumptions and insinuations concerning its progressive investigations into the alleged financial misappropriation in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.
“At the outset of investigations, past and suspended officials of the Humanitarian Ministry were invited by the Commission and investigations into the alleged fraud involving them have yielded the recovery of N32.7billion and $445,000 so far.
“Discreet investigations by the EFCC have opened other fraudulent dealings involving Covid -19 funds, the World Bank loan, Abacha recovered loot released to the Ministry by the Federal Government to execute its poverty alleviation mandate. Investigations have also linked several interdicted and suspended officials of the Ministry to the alleged financial malfeasance.
“It is instructive to stress that the Commission’s investigations are not about individuals. The EFCC is investigating a system and intricate web of fraudulent practices. Banks involved in the alleged fraud are being investigated. Managing Directors of the indicted banks have made useful statements to investigators digging into the infractions. Those found wanting will be prosecuted accordingly.
“On the issue of the works of the Commission against Naira abuse, dollarization of the economy and the enforcement of all extant laws relating to them, the EFCC appreciates the avalanche of public awakening, support and involvement demonstrated so far. Increasingly, members of the public are drawing the attention of the Commission to video recording of abuse of the Naira by Nigerians from all walks of life. These gestures amply demonstrate rising consciousness of the public to the sanctity of our national currency and the need for collaborative engagement to sustain the tempo.
“To this end, the Commission will always investigate and prosecute anyone involved in the abuse of the Naira. Old videos being exhumed and flying around for the attention of the Commission are noted as the Commission is sensitive to the fact that its Special Task Force against Naira Abuse and Dollarization of the economy commenced operations on February 7, 2024. However, going forward, new videos of such infractions will be investigated and prosecuted.
“At the moment, the Commission is investigating several celebrities involved in Naira abuse. Many of them have made useful statements to the Commission and many more have been invited by investigators working on the matter. The EFCC will not relent in its no-sacred-cow mode of operations and the public should be wary of running afoul of laws against the crime.”
A construction company, Gorrion Engineering Ltd, has clarified allegations of flooding in completed road projects in Awka Ibom.
A statement by the General Manager, Engr Yusuf Abdula, copied to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, among others, described the attacks on the company as fake and unwarranted.
It claimed to be a reputable civil construction company with a track record of quality service delivery adding that all roads projects it carried out have been duly completed and commissioned.
The statement reads: “It has come to our notice, the unwarranted attack on our company by some sponsored and highly compromised Facebook urchins, parading themselves as indigenes of Akwa Ibom State.
“We hereby state, unequivocally and with every sense of responsibility that is untrue, insinuations by a cross section of some misinformed public that it abandoned the Ikot Ebak Stadium/Ikot Esse Road located in Akwa State, which led to the flooding of the road after commissioning
“It has come to our notice, the misinformation being sponsored against the company on the avoidable flooding of the Stadium road in Essien Udim LocalGovernment Area, few days after it was commissioned.
“We state here without any reservations that we never abandoned the road project as erroneously being peddled by some highly compromised social media urchins, rather we are happy to state that the road was duly completed and commissioned as expected.
“Let it also be known that, if the appeal by the contractors to land-owners in the area to release a portion of their land, close to the road for the construction of culvert that would see to the diversion of flood into the river was acceded to, (with the readiness of the contractor to even pay for it), the flooding would have been avoided.
“We hereby reject in its entirety, a sponsored report and pictures of the flooded road by some highly compromised individuals in the social media that the project is sub- standard
“Claims by some ill informed and biased commentators on the social media platforms that the job was substandard and that despite completion, it is still largely flooded and impassable by motorists, is far from the truth and a story meant only for the gods.
“All appeal to make available spaces to construct water channels that will give the project a befitting look were refused by the community members. Even in cases where few persons were ready to offer us their lands, others discouraged them from doing so. It was this back and forth that eventually left us with no option but to go ahead with the project.
“Having successfully completed it, the flood expectedly emerged. But our men and equipment are at the site, trying to make sure that in the coming days, Ikot Ebak Stadium/Ikot Esse Road will wear an uncommon look in line with the directive of the Senate President, Chief Godswill Akpabio, Abdula stated.
“We insist that the company under its founder, has maintained a track record of delivering excellent jobs across the country as and when due.”
