The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • ‘Ogbuku dedicated to Niger Delta development’

    ‘Ogbuku dedicated to Niger Delta development’

    The Chairman-designate, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Chiedu Ebie, has hailed the leadership qualities of the Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, describing him as a man dedicated to the development of the region.

    He urged Niger Delta stakeholders to forge stronger bonds and collaborate to pave the way for a brighter future for the oil-rich region.

    Speaking during a reception in honour of Dr. Ogbuku by Yiba-Ama (Oruma) Community at Yiba-Ama School Field in Ogbia Local Government of Bayelsa State, the incoming NDDC chairman said the event was an endorsement of the collective commitment of ‘Niger Deltans’ to realise the full potential of the region.

    Ebie, represented as the chairman of the occasion by the Executive Director Project-designate on the NDDC board, Chief Victor Antai, said the gathering was a testament to the respect and admiration people had for Ogbuku.

    Ebie, in a statement signed by the NDDC Director, Corporate Affairs, Pius Ughakpoteni, described Ogbuku as “a true visionary and a dedicated individual, whose contributions to the development of our region are commendable.

    He said: “We are privileged to have him as the MD/CEO of the NDDC, a position that reflects his commitment to fostering growth and prosperity in the Niger Delta.

    “We celebrate Chief Ogbuku not only for his personal achievements, but also for his dedication to the betterment of our region. Through his visionary leadership, we have witnessed tremendous strides in infrastructure development, community empowerment and sustainable growth.”

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    In a welcome address read by the Secretary of the Planning Committee, Chief Ishmael Emein, the Yiba-Ama Community lauded the efforts of Ogbuku in transforming the Niger Delta.

    They said: “The Yiba-Ama community, his maternal home, has honoured him with a chieftaincy title, Ama Tondi 1 of Tugbeni (Oruma) Land, meaning the one that lightens the community. “Surprisingly, just after his appointment as the MD of the NDDC, solar light is now shining in almost every community. This is a man with an open heart who loves the region.

    “We reiterate our implicit confidence in the capability and ability of our son, Chief Ogbuku, to perform his duties efficiently, effectively and creditably. He has a track record in public service. If we add this to his youthfulness, energy, vibrancy and his high sense of reasoning, then we present to you not only a competent and consummate personality, but also an amiable and considerate individual.”

    Conferring the traditional title of Ama Tondi 1 of Tugbeni on Ogbuku, the Paramount Ruler of Oruma Community, King Pere David Amakiri, described Ogbuku’s leadership in NDDC as impactful and exceptional.

    He commended him for demonstrating zeal and determination in driving the process of development.

    Ogbuku said the honour done to him was an expression of appreciation by his people and a mandate for him to do more in developing the Niger Delta.

    He said: “I have been recognised as an ambassador of my people. I am happy that members of the NDDC board are here with me because we have decided to work as a team. The new board is made up of highly experienced people from diverse fields. Collectively, we will facilitate the urgent development of the Niger Delta. I can assure you that this team is committed to the transformation of the Niger Delta.”

    Ogbuku thanked the people of Yiba-Ama Community for recognising his contributions and honouring him, saying Yiba-Ama, his mother’s community, had always identified with him even during his political travails.

    The Deputy Chairman, Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Francis Olushola Aloa, said the Yiba-Ama community was blessed to have Chief Ogbuku as their son.

    He said: “He is a visionary and a go-getter. You have a great son to be proud of.”

    The king, who praised Ogbuku’s achievements so far in the infrastructural development of the Niger Delta, had joined him and some members of the commission’s incoming board to inspect the newly built Ologi Community Internal Road, in Oruma community.

    The rigid pavement road, with concrete drains and solar-powered street lights, complements the 23.5-kilometre Otuasega-Obedum-Emelego regional road and bridges, also being built by the commission to connect communities in Bayelsa, Rivers states

  • Niger Delta ethnic nationalities hail Tinubu for repositioning NDDC

    Niger Delta ethnic nationalities hail Tinubu for repositioning NDDC

    Leaders of Niger Delta ethnic nationalities and critical stakeholders of professional bodies have lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for toeing a different positive path to reposition the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), making it accountable to the people.

    The leaders in a thank-you message sent to Tinubu under the auspices of the Presidents of Ethnic Nationalities, Critical Stakeholders and Leaders of Professional Bodies of Niger Delta Region hailed the President’s decision to retain Dr. Samuel Ogbuku as the Managing Director of the NDDC.

    A document containing the thank-you message was signed by Senator Emmanuel Essien, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, Elder T K. Ogoriba, Prof. Simeon Achinewhu, Amb. Kennedy Tonjo-West, Prof. Chris Akputu, HRH. Anabs Sarah-Igbeh, Prof. AW Obianne and Lady Ankio Briggs.

    Others are Elder Marshal Kunoun, Chief Thompson Fuoye, Deo Kalsuo, Kingsley Kuku, Chief Edet Ante, Dominic Sattah, Amb. Amain Cotterel, Owemedimo Nwoko SAN, Otto’s Akupjel, Chief Edward Ekpokpo, Dr. Samuel Udonsak, Charles Omusuku, Ken Robinson, Hope Erekosima, Izonibi Oyakene, Kennedy Odiowei and Victor Thomas.                  

    They recalled that on 5th of July, 2023, the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) led a cross section of Presidents of Ethnic Nationalities, Critical Stakeholders and Leaders of Professional Bodies in the Niger Delta on a solidarity visit to the management team of the NDDC and spoke with one voice concerning the NDDC board.

    They said: “The visit, which came just after the dissolution of boards of Federal Government agencies, including the NDSC, the position of the Niger Delta people was clear, that a stable NDDC Board and Management Team with people of impeccable character was the only panacea for development of the region, and, accordingly, we saw reasons to solidarise with the Management Team headed by Dr. Ogbuku that was retained – to continue serving the people; pending the appointment of a substantive board.

    “Your Excellency Sir, in our solidarity address on that day, we eulogised you copiously on the different paths you toed, specifically on the NDDC – unlike the past where the policy and management structures were entirely uprooted; leaving the commission in the hands of opportunist and scavengers who were unaccountable to the people; neither fulfilled the objectives of the Commission.

    “Sir, we extended our profound thanks to you for the wisdom displayed in retaining the Management Team led by Dr. Samuel Ogbuku which had exhibited notable competency within the short period; prior to its dissolution.

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    “Sir, on that occasion, we also appealed to you with one strong voice not to delay in reconstituting the new Board; and true to type, and as a listening leader, you hearkened to the voice of the Niger Delta people and, in no time, you graciously constituted the new NDDC Board”.

    They said it behooved on them as appreciative Niger Delta people, to express their profound gratitude to Mr. President, for his kind gestures.

    They further thank the President for the caliber of individuals he assembled for the new board of the NDDC saying it had given them hope in the future of the Niger Delta.

    They said: “Also, the new Chairman Barr. Chiedu Ebie is known for his enormous wealth of experience, a former Commissioner and later Secretary to the Delta State Government, key player in the oil and gas sector with credible antecedents as one who cares about the development of the region.

    “The Managing Director/ CEO Dr. Samuel Ogbuku who was reappointed is changing the narratives; taking into cognizance his diverse policies to bringing about sustainable partnership, engender global best practices and corporate governance in a bid to reposition the Commission for global business acceptability, robust public-private partnership”.

    They said already Ogbuku had entered into partnership with Chevron and other multinationals on citing tangible projects in the Niger Delta; with KPMG for global best practices, corporate governance and signed a pact with NLNG to maximize impact of development in Niger Delta, among others.

    They said: “Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has already demonstrated that he is a round peg in a round hole and has been deepening stakeholders’ engagement in line with his commitment to the President and the people of the region, promoting federal government’s developmental agenda on one hand, rekindling the hope and confidence of the people, as well as uniting ethnic nationalities towards regional cohesion.

    Similarly, concerning the other personalities on the new Board, from hindsight and checks, we can categorically say, we have a good team in the saddle as they look flawless to us and we pray they don’t yield to the trappings, niceties and the appurtenances of the office and other negative corrupt influences in the future.

    “We, therefor, without equivocation say thank you, Mr. President, for giving the Niger Delta people, and indeed the Niger Delta region, a purposeful Board and Management team.

    “We also recognize the support and cooperation of the Senate President, our own Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, who with an uncommon precision made the screening process seamless but with dexterity.

    “Your Excellency, posterity will not pardon us, if we fail to draw your attention to the unremitted funds due the Commission over the years from both the public and private sector, as this has greatly hindered the Commission from achieving its set objectives hence, we solicit your kind intervention in this regard.       

    “Finally, we acknowledge and thank Your Excellency over the choice of personalities from the Niger Delta region that have been appointed into Ministerial and other positions.

    “While requesting for more appointments for other eminently qualified and dedicated citizens from the region, we are certain that these illustrious sons and daughters of the region will fully give their unalloyed support to make your government succeed”.

    From Mike Odiegwu,
    Port Harcourt

  • Soludo’s group expels governor’s aide, others over gross misconduct

    Soludo’s group expels governor’s aide, others over gross misconduct

    • ‘Purported expulsion malicious’

    A group, Soludo Support Group (SSG), has expelled its former national coordinator and convener, Chinedu Nwoye, who is also the chief of protocol and deputy chief of staff to Governor Chukwuma Soludo.

    The expulsion followed allegations of highhandedness, usurpation of power, financial impropriety, misrepresentation and refusal to apologise to the body for misleading statements against the group’s leadership.

    The group also abolished the position of convener and replaced it with founder.

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    Coordinator of Njikoka/Dunukofia/Aniocha Zone, Prof. Ike Morah, who moved the expulsion motion alongside seven others during a meeting, described Nwoye’s disposition as a huge embarrassment to the group.

    Idemili Zonal Coordinator, Dr. Okolo Ikechukwu, seconding the motion, said Nwoye tried to usurp the power of the national coordinator and Board of Trustees (BOT) by holding clandestine gatherings in an attempt to misinform and mislead the public.

    Reacting to his purported expulsion, Nwoye dismissed it as a fallacious, malicious and an obnoxious tendency orchestrated by a gang of disillusioned and frustrated individuals impersonating SSG members.

  • ‘Don’t allow Igbo culture go into extinction’

    ‘Don’t allow Igbo culture go into extinction’

    A Nigerian-Canadian Peace Ambassador, Dr. Uba Iwunwa, has called for revival and promotion of Igbo culture, history and festivals, to preserve socio-cultural heritage of Ndigbo.

    Uba, founder and chairperson of Ikenga Abiama Dynasty Foundation, a pan-Igbo humanitarian and socio-cultural group, made the call in a goodwill message in commemoration of the 2023 edition of the Eri World Cultural Festival, scheduled for Aguleri in Anambra East Local Government of Anambra State.

    She appealed to Southeast governors to work collaboratively in promoting the festival and other great events that project the rich culture and tradition of Igboland.

    The crowned queen mother also called on political, traditional, spiritual leaders and other stakeholders across Igboland and worldwide to project and treat their culture, history and ancestry with respect.

    Describing culture as identity of any society, Uba, a music artiste, actress and international-bestseller author, stressed that Ndigbo could not afford to allow their history and culture go into extinction or degenerate.

    She said rekindling and promoting culture among the Igbo was an act every indigene must carry out with every sense of pride.

    The statement said: “My culture is my pride and identity. Eri Festival is the cultural heritage of Igboland in honour of Eri, the progenitor of the Igbo ethnic nation. As we all know, culture is the social heritage of any society, which reflects the core identity of its norms and values.

    “Eri festival is one of those socio-cultural events of the year that I look forward to because it resonates with me as a daughter of the great Igbo nation with some historical connection to the Jews.

    “I am also happy with the fact that efforts were being made to commemorate the Eri festival every year by His Royal Majesty, Eze Chukwuemeka Eri, Ezeora the 34th (Aka-Ji-Ofor Ndigbo).

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    “It’s my opinion that sons and daughters of the Igbo nation across the world should also cherish and celebrate Eri Festival.

    “Our culture is our identity. We cannot afford to allow our history and culture go into extinction or degenerate. We should rekindle and promote our culture with every sense of pride. Nobody can do that for us,” she said.

    “I urge Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, as well as his counterparts across the Southeast, to work in promoting the festival and other great events that project the rich culture and tradition of Igboland.

    “I’m happy with what we have seen recently of the Obi Onitsha Ofala festival. It’s time to give other festivals like that of Eri kingdom (and others across the Igbo land) greater recognition and promotion.

    “This is important particularly as others, the Yoruba, the Bini, the Fulani emirates, the Calabar, even the Itsekiri and so on, have succeeded in projecting their tradition and festival to global limelight and we are lagging behind.”

  • De Imperial philant​hropic family unveil N400m scholarship initiative

    De Imperial philant​hropic family unveil N400m scholarship initiative

    In a pioneering and transformative move, the De Imperial Philanthropic Family, a prominent non-governmental organization consisting of distinguished individuals from Nigeria‘s southeastern states, has unveiled an extraordinary ₦400 million scholarship initiative.

    Under the visionary leadership of its President, High Chief Dr. Darlington Nwabunike, known as Eze Nwakaibeya Ogbabalu Aku N’ Anwu Ojoto, this initiative is set to bring about a profound transformation in the lives of underprivileged students, providing them with access to high-quality education.

    The De Imperial Philanthropic Family has embarked on a noble mission to empower underprivileged children and pave the way for a brighter future.

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    To achieve this mission, they have joined forces with the renowned Best Brain Contest organization, celebrated for its integrity and successful execution of educational programs and scholarship examinations.

    Under this initiative, scholarship exams will be exclusively tailored for Junior Secondary School 1 (J.S.1) students across the South Eastern region.

    These exams will take place in each state capital, with Awka representing Anambra, Enugu for Enugu State, Abakaliki for Ebonyi, Umuahia for Abia, and Owerri for Imo.

    A total of 250 students will have the privilege of being inducted into the De Imperial Philanthropic Family scholarship scheme, with 50 students selected from each of the five southeastern states.

    The overarching objective of the De Imperial Philanthropic Family is nothing short of ambitious and impactful: to elevate 1000 students from the streets of the southeastern states out of poverty by providing comprehensive support for their education.

    This scholarship program will cover their educational expenses from Junior Secondary School 1 (J.S.1) to Senior Secondary School 3 (S.S.3), encompassing school fees, writing materials, WAEC fees for both Junior and Senior levels, and JAMB fees.

    Hon. Frank Igbojindu, also known as Akpoazaa, the Chief Executive Officer of the Best Brain Contest, has expressed enthusiastic support for this noble cause. He underscored the organization’s commitment to nurturing the talents and potential of young minds in the South Eastern region.

    The scholarship examinations, a pivotal moment in this initiative, are scheduled to take place in November 2023, commencing with Anambra state on November 18, 2023, at St. John of God Secondary School in Awka.

    This event marks the inception of a transformative educational journey for 250 fortunate students in the Southeast, offering them a chance to break the cycle of poverty and embrace a brighter future through the power of education.

    The De Imperial Philanthropic Family’s unwavering commitment to education and the well-being of the South Eastern region’s underprivileged students is indeed a beacon of hope. It sets an inspiring example for philanthropy and community development, one that is poised to resonate for years to come.

  • NUP hails Tinubu for reappointing Ejimike PTAD executive secretary

    NUP hails Tinubu for reappointing Ejimike PTAD executive secretary

    The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) has  hailed President Bola Tinubu for reappointing Dr. Chioma Ejikeme as the Executive Secretary of the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD).

    In a statement  by its NationaI President, Godwin Abumisi, the union added that Ejikeme’s reappointment was one borne out of merit as she had in her first tenure as PTAD executive secretary rejuvenated the hopes of pensioners all over the country by her leadership style and professional disposition to the job. 

    The pensioners’ union distanced itself from rumours of a planned protest against her reappointment by some pensioners.

    The NUP added that “whoever the group of pensioners protesting her reappointment are, they are being used and sponsored by arch-enemies of the entire Nigerian pensioners.”

    The statement reads: “This sterling reappointment is indeed well merited and gladdens the hearts of the over two hundred and fifty thousand pensioners managed by PTAD, considering the diligent work she has so ably done for the pensioners ensuring the prompt payment of our monthly pensions and attendance to other challenging issues in the last four years.

    “I wish to state that in the NUP, there exists no objection to her appointment. Any talk of protests against her reappointment exists in the hollow minds of persons obviously sponsored by arch enemies of the Nigerian pensioner. I hereby call on all members of the NUP to rally around Dr Ejikeme in order to ensure she continues the good works of restoring the dignity of the Nigerian pensioner.”

    Also, the General Secretary of the Federal Parastatals and Private Sector Pensioners Association of Nigeria (FEPPPAN) Franklin Enrile, said his members feel disappointment and “very bittered” that any pensioner would think of kicking against Ejikeme’s reappointment for any reason.

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    He stressed that her achievements in the “administration of pension management in the country in the recent past that eased the stress and undignified treatment pensioners went through in the past was such that no right thinking person will wish contrary to her reappointment.”

    He said no member of FEPPPAN was “against her reappointment, let alone protest against it in any capacity.”

    “We in FEPPPAN are so shocked to hear that someone somewhere is kicking against Dr. Ejikeme’s reappointment. I wonder what whoever those pensioners stand to gain by protesting. We are rather grateful to President Tinubu for bringing her back to us. Her innovative ideas made our lives easier.

    “President Tinubu, in honesty, did us a favour by reappointing her and we appreciate him. In fact, the entire leadership of FEPPPAN celebration her reappointment with a paid advertorial just express out happiness for her reappointment.

    “Meanwhile, I want to believe that Mr. President examined her track records and found her worthy to continue the good work she started at PTAD. Therefore, we urge President Tinubu to ignore the noise,” he added.

  • Why more Nigerians are adopting healthy living, by  expert

    Why more Nigerians are adopting healthy living, by  expert

    An expert in the wellness and leisure industry, Lanre Akinmusire said more Nigerians are adopting healthy living and fitness.

    The Chief Executive Officer  of Ecofitness Hub said people are recognizing the importance of holistic wellness, and seeking comprehensive solutions for physical, mental, and emotional health.

    Akinmusiru stated that urbanization is driving demand for fitness facilities in Nigerian cities which has opened a space for stress management through fitness and relaxation to become a priority.

    He said this in Abuja at the official launch of the Ecofitness Hub, equipped with eco-friendly fitness equipment, a therapeutic spa lounge, restaurant,  café experiencesand karaoke pods.

    He said, “The launch, represents a bold step towards enhancing the well-being of individuals while offering an unparalleled leisure experience. It has as its mission the promotion of a holistic approach to wellness and leisure, through a diverse range of services.

    “Ecofitness Hub is not merely a fitness center but rather a comprehensive eco-friendly destination where individuals can experience the synergy of a healthy lifestyle.”

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    He further identified three key trends that are driving the desire for fitness and healthy living. Firstly, People are recognizing the importance of holistic wellness, and seeking comprehensive solutions for physical, mental, and emotional health. Secondly, urbanization is driving demand for fitness facilities in Nigerian cities which has opened a space for stress management through fitness and relaxation to become a priority.

    He added, “Thirdly, digital health tools like fitness apps and wearables are gaining popularity and social media’s influence is inspiring fitness engagement and community building. These trends he said shows why many Nigerians are now placing a higher value on their fitness, health and well-being, this shift is contributing to healthier lifestyles and improved overall quality of life.

    “Ecofitness Hub is designed to resonate with the well-being aspirations of people, and it goes beyond just serving individuals. Our holistic approach extends its reach to corporate bodies, including Banks, HMOs, Insurance Companies, and more.

    “It’s a place where you can ‘Feel Fit’ by engaging in exercise and ‘Feel Good’ while indulging in our restaurant, spa lounges, café, and karaoke pods. Our commitment is to consistently create an environment that aligns with the healthy lifestyle preferences of our patrons, making wellness and leisure accessible and enjoyable for everyone,” He said.

  • Bayelsa APC alleges plot by PDP to cause mayhem

    Bayelsa APC alleges plot by PDP to cause mayhem

     Bayelsa State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have raised the alarm over plans by  the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state in cahoots with the state government   to cause a breach of the peace in Bassambiri-Nembe, a stronghold of the APC.

    A statement signed on Thursday in Yenagoa by the State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Doifie Buokoribo, revealed that as part of the plans, lawless men of the armed forces, and other outlaws from neighbouring states, have been allegedly mobilised with state resources to plant arms in some houses in the community to  cause mayhem.

    “The goal of this scorched earth policy is to make it extraordinarily difficult for electoral officials to gain access to the place, harass and intimidate our members and supporters, and ultimately prevent the November 11, 2023 elections from holding in Bassambiri-Nembe, our stronghold.

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    “We consider this intelligence credible as the PDP is now desperate, knowing that the Bayelsa people are not with them. Their performance in office has been lamentably poor. Hence they are not campaigning on any known record of achievement. Instead the PDP is running from court to court, trying to stop the APC from being on the ballot. Not only are they threatening violence, they are actually visiting violence on our members in places like Opokuma, Odi and Kaiama in Kolokuma/Opukuma Local Government Council (Governor Diri’s local government)  and Sangana in Brass Local Government Council,” the statement said.

    He added that the APC is committed to a free, fair and credible election  which can only be guaranteed in an atmosphere of peace. 

    The party called on the armed and security forces to caution their men and officers to act within the limits of the law in order to forestall a breakdown of law and order before, during and after the November 11, Bayelsa State governorship poll

  • Bayelsa making progress under Diri, says Obasanjo

    Bayelsa making progress under Diri, says Obasanjo

    Former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has praised Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri for his sterling performance.

    He said the state is making progress in all sectors of the economy.

    Chief Obasanjo hailed the governor for consolidating the legacies of his predecessor, Senator Seriake Dickson.

    He spoke yesterday during the 12th Bayelsa State Thanksgiving Day at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene-Yenagoa.

    The former president said: “What I saw is more than what I expected. What you have here in Bayelsa that you have to cherish is peace. Comparatively, you have greater peace than other parts of the country.

    “You have security. Peace without security is no peace. Security without peace is no security. Here you have security, you have peace and you have stability.

    “If what is happening here is replicated in other states in Nigeria, then we will say we have a good country.”

    Governor Diri thanked Chief Obasanjo for honouring and identifying with the people and government of the state.

    He attributed his achievements to the support and cooperation of ‘Bayelsans’ and divine grace.

    The governor said: “Bayelsans want peace and development. The former governor laid the foundation upon which we are building and everybody who comes to the state acknowledges the peace and security. So, we cannot go back to the era of violence, impunity and brigandage. The essence of government is to bring peace, development and progress.”

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    “Today, we have added value to the development of Bayelsa. We are embarking on meaningful projects and programmes and we thank God for His grace to do these things.”

    He appreciated leaders of the state, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, noting that he would have attended the event if he had not travelled out of the country.

    The lawmaker representing Bayelsa West Senatorial District and former governor of the state, Senator Seriake Dickson, appreciated Diri for sustaining the legacies of his administration, particularly road projects, annual thanksgiving, morning devotion at the Government House and monthly praise night.

    He said he was a fulfilled man because he successfully handed over power without rancour and the state was peaceful and on the path of development.

    The guest preacher, Pastor Lazarus Muoka of The Lord’s Chosen, Charismatic Revival Movement, delivered a sermon with the theme: “Blessed Are You.”

    He described Bayelsa as a blessed land, which God gave mineral resources.

    Chief Obasanjo inaugurated the second phase of the ongoing Yenagoa-Oporoma-Ukubie senatorial road from Igeibiri to Angiama in Southern Ijaw Local Government.

    The former president lauded the developmental efforts of Dr. Jonathan, who started the project as well as Senator Dickson for continuing it.

  • Fish out perpetrators of Abia massacre, says Ohanaeze

    Fish out perpetrators of Abia massacre, says Ohanaeze

    Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing has appealed to security agencies to work in synergy to fish out those behind alleged killings, resulting in the discovery of over 50 bodies recently at Lokpanta cattle market, Umunneochi in Abia State.

    National Publicity Secretary, Mazi Chika Adiele, in a statement, said the group would launch a fact-finding mission into the discovery to set records straight and support efforts to stem further killings.

    The group called for an end to assassination, banditry and kidnapping in the state, assuring Governor Alex Otti of the backing of Igbo youths in his fight to rid the state of criminals.

    It restated its call for unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, insisting that his release would usher in peace “and guarantee security of lives and property of our people.”

    The statement said: “It is unacceptable to keep silent and allow these evil of monumental proportion to be swept under the carpet.

    “Nothing can further assuage our painful feelings, except facts and justice.

    “Sadly, despite military/police check points on that axis, innocent commuters are subjected to all manner of humiliating experience, while suspected herdsmen move unhindered into the bush, destroying people’s means of livelihood.

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    “We are miffed by the audacity of these mindless herdsmen and their military agents, traversing the nooks and crannies of Ala Igbo with a trail of blood of innocent people on their footpath.

    “We say to them, enough! Assassination, banditry and kidnapping must be brought to an end along Umunneochi/Isuikwuato federal constituency with immediate effect.

    “Igbo youths are brave, industrious, enterprising, peaceful and above all ready for any uncertainty. Our silence is not cowardice. Thus we hereby launch a fact finding mission into this awful discovery in order to set records straight and support ongoing efforts to stem further impasse.

    “We have kept quiet for too long, while these bandits launch monumental destruction, purely orchestrated by overzealous security personnel.”