The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • EFCC vs Yahaya Bello: Kogi youths blast northern group over allegations

    EFCC vs Yahaya Bello: Kogi youths blast northern group over allegations

    The Kogi Youth Leaders Forum (KYLF) has criticised a northern group for accusing Governor Alhaji Usman Ododo of protecting his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, from prosecution.

    KYLF described the allegations as baseless and politically motivated, urging that Ododo be allowed to focus on his duties as governor.

    In a statement on Tuesday, KYLF convener, Benjamin Oguche, wondered why Yahaya Bello’s trial by the EFCC has become a tool for political opportunists to exploit for their gain.

    He stated that the Northern group’s call for President Bola Tinubu to intervene and stop Ododo from shielding Yahaya Bello reinforces KYLF’s longstanding belief that the media hype surrounding the former governor’s trial is politically driven.

    He noted that influential forces both within and outside the state are determined to bring Bello down.

    He said: “From the malicious call of the northern group, it is now clear that Yahaya Bello’s ordeal is just beyond trial for alleged money laundering. It is a clear political witch-hunt, persecution, and giving the dog a bad name just to kill it.

    “Interestingly, the man in the eye of the storm does not shy away from making himself available to provide answers on how he presided over the affairs of our state and left a legacy of honour and pride.

    “Accusing Ododo of shielding a man who is not on the run is not only childish but laughable. It is one of their many ploys to distract the governor with trivialities and irrelevancies to achieve their nefarious aims.

    “Like we have raised in the past, how much was the budget of Kogi in 2016 that the governor was accused of looting over N80bn? For the avoidance of doubt, the state only received N39bn from FAAC in 2016. The onus therefore is on those raising the hate-induced allegation to prove where the fund they are alleging was stolen came from.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Appeal Court voids Yahaya Bello’s contempt case against EFCC boss, Olukoyede

    “For a matter that is already in court to dominate the front burner in their discourse, it only amounts to a mob action against a man whose offence is nothing but standing by and defending the welfare of his people.

    “Yahaya Bello is not the only politically exposed person facing prosecution but we keep wondering why feather-weight elements have latched onto it to vent out accumulated hate.”

    While calling for an end to the media trial and persecution of Yahaya Bello, KYLF called on Governor Ododo to remain focused on delivering effective service to the people of the state in line with a contract agreement he has made with them.

  • Atiku’s plan to unseat Tinubu in 2027, mere wishful thinking – DOJ

    Atiku’s plan to unseat Tinubu in 2027, mere wishful thinking – DOJ

    A Tinubu support group, the Disciples of Jagaban (DOJ), has described the recent visit of former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar to former presidents, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida and Muhammadu Buhari, which was speculated to be part of his 2027 moves, as an exercise in futility.

    DOJ described Atiku’s latest romance with the former presidents as a vein pursuit of the surreal, an unrealistic endeavour, and another fruitless journey that would certainly end in disappointment.

    In a statement by its national coordinator, Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje, the Disciples of Jagaban said that Atiku needs to be told that all other major opposition politicians are fully aware that the return of Tinubu in 2027 is not negotiable.

    According to Alawuje, “Obviously, Atiku and his handlers have forgotten that power comes only from God and not through the manipulative tendencies of individuals even as they try to mislead the citizens.

    “Though the details of his meetings with former Presidents remain sketchy, feelers are that the visit may not be unconnected with the 2027 presidential election. If this is indeed true, then Atiku Abubakar must be told in clear terms that 2027 is not negotiable as far as President Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu is concerned.

    Read Also: Atiku condoles with late Kaita’s family, visits Buhari

    “Tinubu is a staunch democratic who intentionally refused to disclose all the accumulated crisis of over three decades, he met in the office, but he said, I am fully aware of what I am coming to clear, before I ask Nigerian to vote for me, being a straight forward leader, made some Nigerian sifting all the blame of the present situation on him.

    “It is in this regard that, Disciples of Jagaban is calling on Nigerians to start sympathizing with the former Vice President as Nigerians collectively send him on a political hiatus. His latest moves only show the level of desperation in him.

    “Nigerians need not waste their time and resources in listening to the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar because he has nothing more to offer. Being a former vice president, he deserves some respect and regard from us. So, the best we can offer him at the moment is to banish him permanently from the political scene.

    “His latest permutations to unseat Tinubu in 2027: and the list of the ex-presidents he had visited within a week is getting seriously alarming. Even if he decides to visit either Satan or Pharaoh, nothing can change Almighty God’s decision on Tinubu.

    “We will always remind the former Vice President on his debate at Arewa House before the 2023 general election, where he publicly said the Northerners don’t need either Yoruba or Ibos to produce a president

    “This was not the vice president we used to know. His behaviour of late has shown that he is ready to set the country on the part of anarchy to achieve his ambition,” Alawuje stated.

  • Kano ruling unambiguous, Abba Yusuf must resign, says Coalition

    Kano ruling unambiguous, Abba Yusuf must resign, says Coalition

    The Coalition for Defence of Justice and Rule of Law, a group of civil society groups in Nigeria, has called on Kano Governor Abba Yusuf to resign from office immediately.

    The demand was based on Governor Yusuf’s neglect of the latest court ruling annulling the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as the Emir of Kano.

    In a statement by Comrade Mohammed Bello, the Coalition accused the Governor of blatant disregard for the rule of law, persistent abuse of power, and egregious violation of human rights.

    Bello said the recent judgement by Justice Abdullahi Liman of the Federal High Court, Kano was unambiguous and a clear rebuke of Governor Yusuf’s actions, which were deemed illegal and unconstitutional.

    Despite this, he said Governor Yusuf has chosen to ignore the court’s decision, insisting on perpetuating illegality and disrespecting the judiciary and traditional institutions.

    Bello added that this brazen disregard for the rule of law is a clear indication that Governor Yusuf is not fit to continue in office.

    Read Also: Imo schools on red alert as Cholera outbreak spreads

    “The Coalition for Defence of Justice and Rule of Law, a collective of civil society groups in Nigeria, calls on Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State to resign from office immediately,” the statement said.

    “This comes on the heels of the governor’s blatant disregard for the rule of law, his persistent abuse of power, and his egregious violation of human rights.

    “The recent judgement by Justice Abdullahi Liman of the Federal High Court, Kano, unequivocally set aside the reinstatement of Sanusi Lamido as Emir of Kano. This ruling was a clear rebuke of Governor Yusuf’s actions, which were deemed illegal and unconstitutional.

    “Despite this, Governor Yusuf has chosen to ignore the court’s decision, insisting on perpetuating illegality and disrespecting the judiciary and traditional institutions. This brazen disregard for the rule of law is a clear indication that Governor Yusuf is not fit to continue in office.

    “Furthermore, Governor Yusuf’s first year in office has been marked by a relentless campaign of intimidation, harassment, and persecution of perceived opponents, including Emir Ado Bayero. His administration has been characterized by a gross abuse of power, with blatant disregard for human rights and the rule of law.”

    The Coalition for Defence of Justice and Rule of Law, therefore, noted that the governor has betrayed the trust placed in him by the people of Kano State and his continued occupation of the office of governor is a mockery of democratic institutions and a threat to the stability of the state.

    “Failure to resign, Nigerians will hold him responsible for anything that goes wrong in Kano,” the Coalition warned Governor Yusuf. “We will occupy the Kano Government House, Kano House in Abuja, and other strategic locations to express our rejection of his continued stay in office.

    “The people of Kano deserve better, and we will ensure that their voices are heard. We urge the good people of Kano State to remain calm and peaceful in the face of this crisis.

    “We assure them that we will continue to monitor the situation and take all necessary steps to ensure that justice and the rule of law are upheld.”

  • Solidaridad holds policy dialogue to transform Kano vegetable market

    Solidaridad holds policy dialogue to transform Kano vegetable market

    Against the backdrop of the vital role of the vegetable market in Nigeria’s agricultural economy, critical stakeholders of Solidaridad Nigeria, a civil society organisation, on Friday, June 21, held a policy conference in Kano state to address challenges and opportunities to transform the vegetable market in Kano.

    Areas of focus were sustainability and building of the Gender Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) spine to ensure fair benefits for all stakeholders, especially marginalised groups.

    The meeting took place at R&K Guest Palace Hotel, Kano, drawing representatives from the government, the private sector, civil society, farmer cooperatives, and women’s groups as well as international development partners.

    The meeting assessed the current Gender Equity and Social Inclusion state of the vegetable market, identifying key challenges faced by stakeholders, especially vulnerable women and youths.

    To promote sustainability, the participants discussed how to develop strategies of ensuring environmental, economic, and social sustainability and encourage the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices.

    Another objective of the meeting was to ensure that policies and interventions are inclusive and equitable to empower women and marginalised groups within the vegetable market.

    In a communique signed by Baba Bala Abdullahi, Mustapha Adamu and Hajiya Talatu Idi, among others, the Solidaridad stakeholders resolved to among other steps: improve market infrastructure to enhance storage, transportation and processing of vegetables.

    To establish market information systems to provide real-time data to farmers and traders, especially vulnerable women and youths.

    Read Also: Insecurity: Army holds media chat in Kano, pledges loyalty to Tinubu

    Other recommendations included enhancing production and quality, by promoting the use of high-quality seeds and modern farming techniques especially by women farmers.

    Provide training and extension services to farmers especially women and youths on best practices. Facilitate access to credit and financial services for smallholder farmers, particularly women.

    Develop financial products tailored to the needs of vegetable farmers and traders. Especially Women and youths.

    Encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly farming practices and support initiatives for soil conservation, water management, and pest control.

    At the end of the meeting, short-term, medium, and long-term action plans were developed. 

    This included: a plan to conduct baseline studies to gather data on current practices and challenges as they especially relate to women farmers.

    Plan to scale up successful Solidaridad projects and best practices across Kano State. Establish capacity-building programmes for farmers (especially female farmers), traders, and government officials, and as well, create a sustainable vegetable market model that can be replicated in other regions

    The meeting ended with a commitment from stakeholders to work collaboratively towards transforming Nigeria’s vegetable market in Kano State. Emphasis was placed on the need for continuous dialogue, monitoring, and evaluation to ensure sustainability and build a gender equity and social inclusion spine across all institutionalised initiatives.

    Solidaridad is a solution-oriented civil society organisation founded in 1969. In Nigeria, the value chains include oil palm, cocoa, fruits and vegetables, aquaculture and gold.

  • OSSAP-TVEE, labour and employment ministry sign MoU on skills development

    OSSAP-TVEE, labour and employment ministry sign MoU on skills development

    The Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education (OSSAP-TVEE) Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Labour and Employment on the development of skills among youths in the country.

    The ceremony, which took place at the office of the Minister of Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Chidubem Onyejeocha, was witnessed by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Ismaila Abubakar, directors of the Ministry as well as the OSSAP-TVEE Team’

    In her brief remarks before the signing ceremony, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education, Madam Abiola Arogundade, expressed delight at the signing of the agreement describing it as a milestone in the collaborative development and upscaling of skills in Nigeria.

    Read Also: NECA urges organised labour to prioritise job security

    Madam Arogundade, who noted that the percentage of the high-skilled labour in the country currently is at the abysmal low of 15 percent, added that her office is currently engaged in  conducting  a skills mapping survey across the 36 states of the Federation to identify relevant skills required in the Job Market, 

    She also pointed out that her office is in collaboration with the TETFUND and the National Bureau on Technical Education (NBTE) both to ensure adequate funding support for its programmes and the Certification of Vocational Skills beneficiaries for proper job placement, among other programmes currently being executed by the office.

    Article 3 of the MoU, requires the two bodies to collaborate to achieve an effective and efficient implementation of the President’s 8 point Agenda with respect to Job Creation by creating a descent and sustainable jobs per year to Nigerians, particularly the Youths and to work together to achieve the goals of Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP).

    This, according to the Article, include the creation of 2.5 million jobs annually especially in the area of vocational and entrepreneurship skills, collaborate among themselves on planning, execution and evaluation of LEEP by ensuring the effective utilization of the resources and expertise and to coordinate regular meetings and progress reports that will be scheduled to assess the achievements and challenges of the programme.

    While Article 5 of the MoU also confers on the OSSAP-TVEE the responsibility of  conducting  a skills mapping survey to identify relevant skills required in the Job Market, the Offices agrees to develop a comprehensive curriculum aligned with the identified skills and to oversee the certification process as contained in Article 4  subsection 2 of the MoU.

  • Tinubu laying foundation for prosperous, sustainable Nigeria, says NPC DG 

    Tinubu laying foundation for prosperous, sustainable Nigeria, says NPC DG 

    President Bola Tinubu’s administration is laying the groundwork for a more prosperous and sustainable future, the Director-General, National Productivity Centre, Nasir Raji-Mustapha has said. 

    In a message to celebrate this year’s World Productivity Day, Raji-Mustapha urged Nigerians to support the administration to ensure the success of its economic policies. 

    The director-general also urged Nigerians to be committed to efficiency, creativity and innovation.

    The World Productivity Day is a special day celebrated on June 20th and it is focused on improving how people work and live.

    Raji-Mustapha emphasised the importance of efficiency, creativity and innovation in all aspects of work and life.

    He said: “Governments and policymakers are playing a pivotal role in shaping the productivity landscape by creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, investing in education and skills development, and fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.

    “By championing initiatives that promote productivity and drive economic development, President Bola Ahmed is laying the groundwork for a more prosperous and sustainable future.”

    The director-general added: “Today’s rapidly evolving world requires the ability to adapt, innovate, and excel. In the face of unprecedented global challenges, this year’s World Productivity Day takes on even greater importance as the new world order underscores the need for resilience, agility, and creative problem-solving.

    Read Also: Tinubu, Ramaphosa to tackle shared challenges, foster closer ties

    “The need to adapt to new ways of working and living has highlighted the critical role of productivity in overcoming obstacles and driving resilience and sustainability.

    “World Productivity Day serves as a reminder that by embracing change and seizing opportunities, we can effectively navigate uncertainties and build a brighter future for all.

    “Productivity is not just about working harder but smarter. It encourages everyone to look at how they manage their tasks and find ways to enhance their efficiency.

    “World Productivity Day is celebrated to inspire individuals and organisations to boost their productivity. It reminds us that by adopting smarter work strategies, we can improve our performance and overall well-being.

    “This annual observance, therefore, serves as a platform to promote best practices, share knowledge, and inspire individuals and organisations to unlock their full potential and make a positive impact on society.

    “By leveraging technology, embracing creativity, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, individuals and businesses can achieve remarkable results and drive positive change in their communities.”

    The director – general of NPC also said organisations are empowering their workforce to deliver high-quality products and services, drive innovation, and stay ahead in a competitive marketplace.

    He urged Nigerians to reaffirm to harnessing their collective strengths, embracing change, striving for excellence, and making a positive impact on the world around us.

    He said: “Businesses are embracing digital transformation and prioritising employee well-being to enhance productivity and drive sustainable growth. Organisations are empowering their workforce to deliver high-quality products and services, drive innovation, and stay ahead in a competitive marketplace.

    “Individuals are also exploring various strategies to boost their productivity, maintain a healthy work-life balance, enhance their well-being, and realise their full potential.

    “World Productivity Day goes beyond just improving tasks; it also touches on lifestyle aspects, urging people to create impactful habits for success and fulfillment. It is a day to set new goals, appreciate our achievements, and make plans for continued growth and development.

    “This perspective helps us realise that productivity is not merely about ticking off tasks; it is about meaningful work and life achievements, intelligent planning, and focused efforts toward our goals​​.

    “Ultimately, World Productivity Day stands as a call to action for everyone to reflect on our work habits and strive for continuous improvement, encouraging us all to think creatively and push boundaries in our pursuit of excellence.

    “As the nation commemorates World Productivity Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to harnessing our collective strengths, embracing change, striving for excellence, and making a positive impact on the world around us. By doing so, we can build a more productive, innovative, resilient, thriving, and inclusive society for generations to come.”

  • Kwara Gov excited as Army launches CBT Centre in Igbaja

    Kwara Gov excited as Army launches CBT Centre in Igbaja

    Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Thursday advocated more appreciation for the sacrifices of the security agencies, including the Nigerian Army.

    He said the military has played important roles to support civilian authorities at all times, including at a time when the country was under intense pressure from hostile non-state actors.

    The Governor spoke in Igbaja, Ifelodun LG of the state, at the commissioning of a Computer Based Testing (CBT) center, a special intervention project of the Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), Lieutenant General T. A. Lagbaja.

    The project was executed by Major General Adelokun Eyitayo, a serving military officer and native of Igbaja Land, who also launched his three books, titled: ‘Life of Prince Daud and Spirituality; Tears for Suni and Titi; and The Boy on the Highland’.

    “This Computer Centre means a lot for the socioeconomic growth of this community. Not only does it nudge members of the community towards acquisition of necessary skills for this age; it opens up new frontiers of socioeconomic benefits for Igbaja and communities around it,” the Governor said.

    “I am also fascinated by the spirit behind this project. It is timely and necessary. The need for better military-civil relations cannot be over-emphasized. Recent developments in our country again suggest a need to deepen citizens’ appreciation of the sacrifices that our security forces make to keep us safe, stabilise the fabric of our society, and ward off every threat against the Nigerian state.

    “Over the last two decades, the military has played very important roles to support civilian authorities at all times, including at a time when our country came under intense pressure from hostile non-state actors.”

    AbdulRazaq commended the Federal Government and the Chief of Army Staff for establishing the CBT centre that he said will aid skill acquisition and boost socioeconomic growth of the area.

    “We therefore cannot thank the federal government and our military enough. We must appreciate and honour members of our security forces, including military personnel deployed in internal operations and during emergencies, and cease all attacks on them,” he added.

    The commissioning attracted various dignitaries, including the CoAS  Lieutenant General T. A. Lagbaja, who was represented by Maj Gen Obinna Onubogu; the Elese of Igbajaland Oba Ahmed Awuni Arepo III; and Igbaja CBT Project Executor Major General Adelokun Eyitayo; among others.  

    Lagbaja said the execution of the project further affirmed the transformational drive of the Nigerian Army towards achieving its constitutional responsibility through a non-kinetic line of operations.

    The Army Chief thanked Governor AbdulRazaq and the people of the state for their continued support for the operations of the Nigerian Army.

    “The Nigerian Army has received tremendous support from your government. It is also gladdening to note that we have enjoyed cordial working relationships with you over the years, and your support has contributed immensely to our operational success within the state and the entire North Central region,” he said.

    Maj Gen. Eyitayo thanked CoAS for the approval of the project and his unwavering support for its delivery.

    He also appreciated the Governor for directing the purchase and supply of his three books for the use of students of public secondary schools in the state.

    The Governor, meanwhile, attended the 2024 Igbaja Day celebration, where he urged the people of Igbaja to continue to recognise the rich cultural heritage and diversity that makes the community to be unique.

    He congratulated the Elese of Igbaja, the Jagunmolu of Igbaja and founder of Al-hikmah University Chief Oladimeji Igbaja, and all sons and daughters of Igbaja community on the celebration, requesting them to continue to unite for accelerated growth.

    “Let us embrace and celebrate our diversity, and continue to build bridges of understanding and empathy,” the Governor said.

    “As you are aware, our administration has embarked on various projects that touched the lives of everyone across the state, including Igbajaland. We will continue to do more to improve the lives of our people.”

    Chief Oladimeji, who was excited by the Governor’s culture of arriving early for events, praised AbdulRazaq for time management, and how the administration has executed many laudable programmes and projects in the town and elsewhere.

  • Wike, Yusuf, Aremu, other win ThisNigeria gold prize awards

    Wike, Yusuf, Aremu, other win ThisNigeria gold prize awards

    …as Abdu salami to chair lecture on 25th anniversary of democracy

    Nigeria’s fastest growing print and online newspaper, THISNIGERIA is set to hold the second edition of its annual lecture and gold prize award themed: 25 Years of Nigeria’s unbroken Democracy – Prospects & Possibilities. 

    This reputable event, which is scheduled to take place at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, on June 27, 2024 at 10:00 a.m, will be chaired by General Abdulsalami Abubakar, former Military Head of State. 

    Speakers at the event are Prof. Mike Ozekhome, Prof. Okey Ikechukwu, Senator Shehu Sani and Prof. Abiodun Adeniyi .

    Recall that in 2021, THISNIGERIA held its maiden Annual Lecture and Gold Prize themed “National Cohesion for Sustainable Growth and Progress: The Nigerian Dilemma”, with former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi as Chairman and media icon, Professor Tonnie Iredia, OON as moderator of the event. 

    Eminent cleric and bishop of the Sokoto archdiocese, Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah delivered a paper “National Cohesion for Growth and Progress: The Nigeria Dilemma.”

    However, the 2024 edition “aims to celebrate and critically examine Nigeria’s quarter-century of uninterrupted democratic governance, discussing its future prospects and possibilities,” according to a statement by the Publisher of   THISNIGERIA, Mr. Eric Osagie 

    “The Gold Prize Award will be presented to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to the nation’s democratic development.

    “Our 2024 Awardees are persons who made the critical difference in the discharge of their duties, with uncommon zeal and commitment to the common good of the citizens and the country,” the statement read. 

    Set to receive the prestigious THISNIGERIA Gold Prize for his “Infrastructural revolution and Exceptional Leadership” is the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. 

    According to a survey conducted by Public Sector Performance Index, PSPI, on behalf of the newspaper organisation, the FCT, has within eight months of Wike’s tour of duty, witnessed remarkable turnaround in infrastructural renewal, aggressive pursuit of developments across the Territories that make up the Federal Capital City.

    The report states that “What HE Nyesom Wike has done remains unprecedented in the annals of FCT Administration. He has continued to impact substantially not only on road networks in the city, but you can also find his bold imprints in the security, health, and education sectors.”

    Apart from Wike, other winners of the Gold Prize awards are: Gov. Kabir Abba Yusuf of Kano State; Gov Umo Bassey Eno of Akwa Ibom State.

    While Yusuf will go home with the Courage in Leadership award, Eno clinches the award for Peace Building and Innovative Leadership.

    In rating Gov. Yusuf, Performance Index Report of THISNIGERIA newspapers, noted the courage, determination, and commitment of the governor in the service of his people.

    “Not only is he impacting positively in education, agriculture and security, Gov Yusuf in his short stint in office so far continues to show  commendable resilience in the governance of a complex and diverse state like Kano.”

    HE Pastor Eno of Akwa Ibom state is being garlanded for enthroning a culture and conducive atmosphere of peace and tranquillity, which has in turn led to harvest of democracy dividends for the people of the state.

    Through innovative leadership, he has, in the last one year, made bold statements in rural development and health care services and fostered political inclusion in a state hitherto fractured along ethnic and political divides.

    Mr Jim Osayande Obazee, Special Investigator CBN and other government business entities will receive the prize in the Public Service category. 

    Obazee, a patriotic and fearless Nigerian, was saddled with the arduous task of unearthing and cleansing the Augean stable of economic malfeasances in the Central Bank of Nigeria under the embattled former Governor, Godwin Emefiele.

    Read Also: Fayemi, Kukah, others for THISNigeria inaugural lecture

    The trial is still ongoing, but to Obazee and his team’s credit “there has been no story or case of anyone succumbing to inducements to sway them from the path of rectitude unlike probes of similar nature.”

    Comrade Issa Aremu, veteran labour leader and Director-General of Michael Imoudu Institute of Labour Studies, is also a recipient of the Public Service award.

    Aremu has been silently but effectively transforming the labour institute in terms of capacity and relevance to the country’s government-workforce engagement. 

    The policy body has continued to engage different labour sectors to ensure a better understanding between all interest groups.

    Aremu has served variously as vice-president of the NLC; also, in the continental labour organization in executive capacity, among other positions.

  • Benue APC chair Omakolo hails Alia’s achievements in one year

    Benue APC chair Omakolo hails Alia’s achievements in one year

    The acting chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State, Hon. Benjamin Omakolo, has rated Gov Hyacinth Alia high in one year, stating he has recorded manifold achievements. 

    Speaking at the Akume Atongo Stadium, Katsina Ala, venue of the start of Alia’s five-day thank-you tour of the Federal Constituencies of Benue State, Omakolo stated the Governor has proven in the last one year to be in league with two legendary former Governors late Chief Aper Aku and Rev. Fr. Moses Adasu in terms of commitment to serving the people and developing the state. 

    Omakolo stated Alia was undertaking the tour to express appreciation for the massive support and overwhelming votes the Benue gave him during the 2023 general elections. 

    He added that the tour was a testament of the Governor’s commitment to connect with the people who entrusted him with their mandate. 

    “Though he should have done this immediately after assuming office, the magnitude of challenges he inherited compelled him to prioritize addressing crucial issues to rescue the state from social, economic and structural decay,” Omakolo stated. 

    He further noted that the tour offers Alia the opportunity to render an account of his stewardship of the state in his first year at the helm of affairs and engage with stakeholders at the grassroots. 

    He said in the course of the tour, the Governor will listen to the concerns of the people, as well as receive their advice and use the feedback to enhance his administration’s service delivery. 

    Highlighting a few of Alia’s achievements in his first year in office, Omakolo mentioned the prompt payment of salaries to civil servants as well as the clearing of the backlog of retirees’ pensions and gratuities. 

    Read Also: Acting Benue APC chair declares loyalty to Gov Alia, urges support for rebuilding process

    He also mentioned the launch of the Benue State Agricultural Revolution (BSAR), to boost farming and food security in the state as well as the establishment of the Benue State Development Fund (BSDF) to support small businesses and entrepreneurs. 

    “He is a leader with plenteous empathy, one who feels the pulse of the ordinary people and is committed to addressing their plights. Governor Alia has a clear vision for Benue State’s development and is working tirelessly to achieve it. Nobody can fault his integrity. He is a man of his word, transparent and accountable in his actions and decisions,” Omakolo stated. 

    He appealed to Benue people to support Alia in his bid to take the state to another level. 

    Omakolo stated that contrary to what some of his detractors claim, Alia runs an inclusive administration. 

    He added that the Governor believes in carrying everyone along regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity or religion. 

  • Onomo crisis: Jubilation in Benue community as Owukpa adopts created ward system

    Onomo crisis: Jubilation in Benue community as Owukpa adopts created ward system

    The people of Owukpa District in Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State have put an end to the lingering disputes which have crippled the growth and development of the community for several years.

    The resolutions reached at the meeting held at Ai Odu Primary School on Saturday, 15th June 2024, threw the people into jubilation as they hugged themselves, dinned together and prayed for sustained love, peace and unity among the people of Owukpa.

    The peace meeting was conveyed by Chief Ewaoche Obe-led 3-man committee. Obe is a professional mediator and crisis resolution expert after wider consultations with Idoma traditional authorities and Owukpa stakeholders.

    The community was thrown into crises over Owukpa District Head vacant position. Unfortunately, the position which has resulted in multiple court cases amongst lineages and individuals is no longer recognized across Idoma land by the government of Benue State as enshrined in the State Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs law.

    The development informed the new resolutions to, henceforth, align the governance of the community with the recognized Ward system which is a creation of Benue State government.

    In a communique jointly signed by Chief Ewaoche Obe, Barr Enenche Ekoja and Hon Abakpa David Otobo at the end of the peace meeting in Owukpa on Saturday, the people of Owukpa resolved: ” After reviewing the positions of the parties in dispute, proposals/recommendations and consultations from other stakeholders and traditional rulers and institutions in Idoma land, with relevant laws by the State government, it was discovered that the fight is baseless as the position of district head (Och’Owukpa) is no longer recognized by Benue State chieftaincy law. Rather, what is recognized now is Ward Head system. This is why Owukpa today is grouped into four (4) wards – two wards in Itabono (Itabono Ward l and ll) and two wards in Ehaje (Ehaje ward l and ll) and each is headed by a Ward Head. Obviously, therefore, the fight is overtaken by the law. However, as a heritage and pride, Owukpa may keep the position alive to be serviced by the community.

    Read Also; Governor Alia’s agricultural revolution in Benue

    “Every Ward (Itabono Ward l and ll and Ehaje Ward l and ll) should, henceforth, be responsible for itself without interference from any other Ward. B) Each should present its zoning/rotational system within itself according to clans/lineages within three weeks and to be shared to all Owukpa worldwide for implementation in all Owukpa meetings. C) Any person(s) or group(s) that is not from a particular Ward but found interfering in the affairs of another Ward shall be sanctioned by the Owukpa Traditional Area Council. D) Owukpa Traditional Area Council is given full authority to govern the community in accordance with the lay down leadership structure.  E) In dispute resolution, it should strictly begin with Ona’gene to Clan Head to Ward Head to Och’Owukpa (Onomo) level where it couldn’t be resolved at the Ward Head level.

    ” No Owukpa son/daughter or group should take the other to court until after the dispute resolution channels as in E above is exhausted. B) Any Chief found compromised will be reported to the appropriate authority for disciplinary action.

    ” Every Ward Head and its stakeholders should constitute a 5-man committee to oversee the development of the Ward. B) Five selected persons/delegates from each family/clan/lineage as the case may be in each Ward and to be headed by a national chairman should form a leadership to oversee the Owukpa Community development and progress. C) A and B above shall all be tenured accordingly.

    “The submission/presentation of the position of one of the parties in court on the Onomo shall be forwarded to the other party to peruse and present theirs to the committee set up to look at it with the lawyers of both parties in order to do proper justice to the cases in court to come out with the best way forward. B) However, since the recommendation that the Ochidu clan that has never produced Onomo in Owukpa was not challenged by any of the group or party, the clan should be allowed to produce the next ceremonial Onomo for the interest of peace and justice.

    “All Wards should present their rotational arrangements and occupants of the Ward. B) All rotations according to families/clans/lineages should follow acceptable rotational system without fear or favour.

    “Every Ward shall make contributions for security, development programmes and youths empowerment in the Ward and Owukpa as a whole.”