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Category: South East

Joy as Okotete rewards Delta APC women at summit

Women of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta state were ecstatic on Thursday in Asaba as a former national women leader, Hon. Stella Okotete, hosted them to a summit.

They were all empowered and rewarded for staying true to the party during the last election.

The summit themed ‘Empowered To Serve’ had over 2000 women in attendance from all the local governments areas in the state.

No fewer than 500 traders from other political parties decamped to the APC.

Hon. Okotete extolled the virtues of the women who stood by the party during the last election which led to the emergence of two senators, House of Representative members and seven House of Assembly members.

She said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda holds hope and prosperous future for all party faithful, adding that the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has also assured that she would visit them in no distant future.

The event also witnessed empowerment for women who have been loyal and faithful to the party at all levels.

Mrs Ejieh Helen who is from Delta North, Mrs Rita Ogagarojor, Delta South, Mrs Queen Ogedengbe Delta Central all got N1million each, while Mrs Roseline Akamakowe, Endurance Akoka, Edewor Rose, Lizzy Unurhoro and Mercy Ochei got N500,000 each.

Other categories of beneficiaries got N250,000, N150,000, N100,000 and N50,000 respectively.

The women performed and danced to cultural songs happy that their efforts during the last election were been rewarded.

The special guest at the event was the National Women Leader of APC, Dr Mary Alile Idele, who described the Executive Director, Business Development of the Nigerian Export -Import Bank (NEXIM), Hon Stella Okotete, as a consistent, loyal and steadfast leader of the party whom she is so proud of.

Idele stated that the summit is more than just an event, but a call to action—a reminder of the immense potential that resides within every woman.

She said: “Today, we gather not only to celebrate our achievements but to reaffirm our commitment to using our strength, our voices, and our talents in service of something greater than ourselves.

“In every corner of the world, we see women breaking barriers, rising to leadership positions, and redefining what it means to lead and serve.

“Yet, empowerment is not just about personal success; it is about using that success to uplift others.

“The real measure of empowerment lies in how we transform our communities, support those around us, and build pathways for future generations to thrive.

“‘Empowered to Serve’ is a theme that speaks to the heart of this summit.

“Empowerment is not just about acquiring power, it’s about purpose.

“It is about how we channel our strengths into actions that benefit the many, not just the few.

“Whether we are in boardrooms, classrooms, marketplaces, or homes, our influence can shape the future.”

State Women Leader, Mrs Tina Okwudili, announced that over 500 women traders joined the party.

She unveiled the Delta State Progressives Cooperative and Agricultural farmers schemes, an initiative aimed at economically empowering APC women in the state.

She said: “Today, we gather as a united force, driven by a shared vision and a common purpose.

“We stand at a threshold of a new era, where our collective efforts will shape the future of our great Party and our beloved state.”

Read Also: Delta APC chieftain Emetitiri tackles Fubara, loyalists over Wike

Okotete, who all the leaders described in glowing terms as the uniting force holding the party together in the state, got plethora of commendations from the state Chairman of the party, Elder Omeni Sobotie, who was represented by his wife, Mrs Ify Sobotie acknowledging the profound impact of Okotete whom she referred to as the Lioness of the Niger Delta.

Members of the State House of Assembly also took their turns to shower encomium on Okotete for demonstrating leadership and flying the flag of the party higher with her welfare programmes for the people.

The members of the assembly present were, Hon. Dafe Emakpor, who is the Minority Leader, Hon Ebitonmo Anthony Alapala, Hon. Benson Obire, Hon. Spencer Obokpare Ohwofa, Hon. Matthew Omonade, Hon. Blessing Achoja and Hon. Obie Egbetamah, among others.

The State Women Leader from Edo State, Lady Betty Okoebor Benson, asked the women to consider themselves lucky for having a woman like Hon Okotete, tasking them to brace up and win the state for APC in 2027.

October 18, 2024
Nigeria Pavilion attracts over 50,000 visitors at Venice Biennale

Since its opening at the 60th International Venice Biennale in Italy, the Nigeria Pavilion has attracted over 50,000 art enthusiasts and has received widespread acclaim from the international press.

Venice Biennale is an international cultural exhibition hosted annually in Venice, Italy by the Beinnale Foundation.

The International Art Exhibition runs from Saturday, April 20, to Sunday, November 24.

The Pavilion, titled Nigeria Imaginary, has become a major attraction, drawing art lovers, curators, and critics, and strengthening Nigeria’s image as an emerging creative hub.

The exhibition was commissioned by Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki in collaboration with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Arts and Culture.

It was represented by the Minister for Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, and organized by the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).

The pavilion showcased contemporary Nigerian art while highlighting MOWAA’s vision and curatorial skills, attracting global interest in Nigerian and West African modern art.

Over the past six months, several notable Nigerians have visited the pavilion. Among them was Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, who described the experience as “artistic, historic, and evocative.”

He praised the diverse elements within the exhibit, capturing both lyrical and contrasting aspects of Nigerian society.

Musa-Musawa also emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships like the one with MOWAA, highlighting this pavilion as the beginning of a long-term collaboration.

Curated by MOWAA’s Aindrea Emelife, the pavilion featured works by eight Nigerian and Nigerian diasporic artists, including Tunji Adeniyi-Jones, Ndidi Dike, Onyeka Igwe, Toyin Ojih Odutola, Abraham Oghobase, Yinka Shonibare CBE RA, Fatimah Tuggar, and Precious Okoyomon.

Their art explored complex themes such as history, identity, and the future.

The pavilion’s success is evident in the widespread international media coverage it received. Major outlets like The Financial Times, The Guardian, The Washington Post, Le Monde, and The Times UK featured the pavilion extensively.

It also gained attention from leading art publications like Artforum, The Art Newspaper, ARTnews, ArtReview, and Frieze. Additionally, lifestyle outlets such as Vogue and Hemispheres covered the exhibition, and it was picked up by global news outlets like BBC, NBC News, and The Associated Press.

The pavilion was recognized among the best at the Biennale, receiving mentions in Art in America, Forbes, Harper’s Bazaar, The New York Times, and W Magazine, among others.

Siddhartha Mitter of The New York Times described the Nigeria Pavilion as “one of the most ambitious African presentations ever at the Venice Biennale.”

Read Also: Nigeria’s Adedayo Thomas appointed to Pavilion Afriques Board

Looking ahead, MOWAA plans to bring Nigeria Imaginary back home for a showcase at its campus in Edo State, Nigeria.

Aindrea Emelife expressed MOWAA’s commitment to ensuring the exhibition’s success continues even after the Biennale.

The Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) was founded in 2020 as an independent, non-profit organization focused on preserving heritage, expanding knowledge, and promoting West African arts and culture.

MOWAA’s Creative Campus in Benin City, Edo State, spans 15 acres and includes multiple buildings and public spaces for art display, performances, and commerce.

It features the Rainforest Gallery, an exhibition building within a replanted rainforest, the Art Guesthouse for visiting artists and researchers, and the Artisans Hall, which reimagines traditional Benin architecture as a space for contemporary artisans to showcase their work. Through partnerships, MOWAA connects contemporary art with West Africa’s rich heritage, creating opportunities for artists and scholars from Africa and its diaspora.

October 17, 2024
Igbo leader assures of better days under Tinubu

The leader of Igbo in Diaspora United Congress, Mr. Chukwuemeka Obielom has assured Nigerians of better days under the President Bola Tinubu administration.

In a statement via email, Obielom said despite the economic challenges being experienced, “there is light at the end of the tunnel”.

“I am confident that President Tinubu will change things for better in Nigeria. Although there is global economic problem, our country will come out better and united.

“The current administration has the capacity to turn things around favourably for Nigerians. What we are experiencing is temporary sacrifice for a greater tomorrow. I therefore urge Nigerians to be prayerful and hopeful,” he said.

Obielom, who is also the international coordinator of the Good Governance Group and the Southern Youths Development Forum inc, said that Igbos have been appointed to strategic government positions in the current administration.

“The Igbos at home and in the Diaspora appreciate Mr President for appointing our sons and daughters into strategic positions in his government.

Read Also: Tinubu education stimulus, not varsity

“We are proud as people and do not hesitate to say that the Tinubu government is doing very well in all facets. We are optimistic that Nigeria under Mr. President is on the right track to economic recovery.

“As a group we desire to contribute towards the development of Nigeria and soon they will establish a diaspora support in the Eastern Region to train and assist our people in different skills including scholarships because all hands must be in deck to develop our country.

“We are to build a partnership with government to enhance the lives of our citizens and I want to appeal to the igbos in Nigeria and Diaspora to live in peace with everybody”.

He said that the Ndigbos have contributed to the development of the Nigeria and the world.

“There is no way you go in the world without seeing an igbo man and the enterprising spirit of the Ndigbos is an added advantage to us. We will continue to encourage our people to unite and support Mr President,” Obielom said.

October 17, 2024
Okada riders’ union seeks Sanwo-Olu’s intervention for official recognition

…alleges subversion of governor’s directive on operation

The Motorcycle Operators’ Union of Nigeria (MOUN) in Lagos State has called for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s intervention to ensure the body is granted official recognition as the sole motorcycle operators union in the state.

It also wants the governor to ensure that ‘MOUN is accorded all the rights and privileges of a duly registered trade union in Nigeria’.

Lawyer to the union, Jiti Ogunye, in the company of the chairman, Taiwo Adetunji, made this call yesterday at a news conference at the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) secretariat, Ikeja.

It was attended by the union’s leadership and members.

Ogunye alleged that some officials of the Ministry of Transportation were subverting the governor’s directive on the union’s recognition and certification for operation.

He called for the immediate remedy of the situation to avoid unnecessary chaos and disorder in the state.

The legal counsel also noted that letters were written by MOUN to the state Attorney-General and Ministry of Transportation, seeking recognition, ‘but, sadly, some officials did not only refuse to give Lagos MOUN and the National Leadership, represented by the Secretary General of MOUN, a certificate or communication of recognition but also repeatedly avoided us, all claiming that they had not been directed’.

He added: “Rather, the officials subverted Governor Sanwo-Olu’s directive, claiming dubiously that there is an intra-union dispute in MOUN.

“For the avoidance of doubt, there is no intra-union dispute in MOUN on the issue of the recognition accorded MOUN in Lagos State. MOUN has a branch and an executive council in Lagos State, which was constituted in 2023.

Read Also: Sanwo-Olu is first passenger as Red Line takes off

“This Lagos State branch has been operating in readiness for the recognition and certification for operation, which the governor has graciously granted. On May 1, 2024, as a part of its activities for the Workers’ Day Celebration, MOUN, as an accredited affiliate of NLC, participated in the parade and march-past. The governor also acknowledged MOUN on that occasion.”

Ogunye also said the union, on October 9, petitioned Governor Sanwo-Olu, seeking redress through ‘a withdrawal and rescission of the letter of recognition and other letters purportedly issued to MOUN, but handed over to third parties who are not members of MOUN, to empower them to forcibly take over MOUN in Lagos State.

On the union’s appeals to the governor, Ogunye said: “The governor should direct the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to convene a stakeholders meeting with concerned parties – Lagos MOUN, the two pre-existing motorcycle riders’ associations (MOALS and NNAMORAL); NURTW and RTEAN, to which MOALS and NNAMORAL are affiliated; as well as the Ministry of Transportation, where transitional issues, accommodation, protection of interests and integration of the departing and soon-to-become defunct management platforms of MOALS and NNAMORAL would be discussed and resolved, to pave way for a seamless commencement of full operation by MOUN in Lagos State.

“Investigation of our complaint of misconduct levelled against the ministry officials to initiate administrative and executive disciplinary proceedings against them under the Public Service Rules, and Code of Conduct for political office holders, as may be deemed appropriate.

“Mandating the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to implement, supervise and coordinate these remedies being sought, to promote trust and confidence in the remediation process.

“It is our fervent hope that Governor Sanwo-Olu will grant our union the justice we deserve.”

Commissioner for Transportation Oluwaseun Osiyemi, and Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, were yet to respond to inquiries as of last night.

October 15, 2024
CSO scores Budget Minister Bagudu high

The Initiative for Transparent Leadership (ITL) has commended Minister of Budget and Planning Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu for what it described as his outstanding performance in promoting transparency, inclusivity, and sustainable development.

At a briefing, the CSO praised Bagudu’s efforts in ensuring an equal spread of budgetary allocations across the six geo-political zones.

The group said that marks a significant departure from previous administrations where certain regions were favored over others.

Its Executive Director, Fabian Opialu, said under Bagudu’s leadership, the budget follows an even spread, ensuring that all six geo-political zones benefit from concrete projects that meet tangible realities on the ground.

This level of accountability, he said, is unprecedented and highlights Bagudu’s commitment to transparency in governance.

The CSO also commended the improved allocation of resources and their prioritization.

Opialu lamented that previous administrations struggled with ensuring that key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security received the necessary funding.

However, he noted that Senator Bagudu has worked meticulously to ensure that resources are allocated to projects based on national priorities and needs, rather than political considerations.

Opialu further said that this has led to visible improvements in several key sectors across all regions of the country.

He said Senator Bagudu’s actions have been firmly in support of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritizes the economic integration of marginalized groups, particularly women and individuals with disabilities.

The CSO added that the Minister has played a critical role in ensuring that these groups are not only included but are also empowered to contribute meaningfully to the economy.

He said: “Unlike previous administrations where budget allocations often remained theoretical, under Senator Bagudu’s leadership, there has been a strong focus on implementation and monitoring of projects.

“For the first time in many years, we are witnessing robust systems being put in place to monitor projects and their progress, ensuring that funds allocated to specific regions are utilized for the intended purposes. This level of accountability is unprecedented and highlights the commitment of Senator Bagudu to transparency in governance.

“Furthermore, one of the most remarkable successes of the current administration is the improved allocation of resources and their prioritization. Previous administrations struggled with ensuring that key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security received the necessary funding.

“However, Senator Bagudu has worked meticulously to ensure that resources are allocated to projects based on national priorities and needs, rather than political considerations. This has led to visible improvements in several key sectors across all regions of the country.

“Another significant achievement under Senator Bagudu’s tenure is the periodic review of projects and programs to ensure conformity with the objectives laid out in the national development plan. The ability to adapt and make necessary changes to the implementation process is a sign of great foresight. Regular evaluations have allowed the Ministry to correct course when necessary, ensuring that projects remain aligned with the government’s overall goals of promoting inclusivity and sustainable growth.

“Additionally, Senator Atiku Bagudu’s actions have been firmly in support of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which has inclusivity at its core. This agenda prioritizes the economic integration of marginalized groups, particularly women and individuals with disabilities.

“Senator Bagudu has played a critical role in Ensuring that these groups are not only included but are also empowered to contribute meaningfully to the economy. Unlike in previous administrations where inclusivity was merely a slogan, the current administration, through Senator Bagudu’s efforts, has made tangible progress in integrating these groups into the economic system a realistic endeavor.

“Another key governance issue that Senator Bagudu has helped address is youth unemployment. Nigeria’s youth population is one of the largest in the world, yet successive administrations have struggled to create meaningful opportunities for this demographic even on their meticulous planning, but only touching the surface.

“Senator Bagudu has been a trailblazer in contributing practical strategies for implementing the administration’s youth empowerment policies in her budgeting and planning. Through initiatives such as vocational training, digital skills programs, and entrepreneurial support, young Nigerians are being equipped with the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. This is a marked departure from previous administrations, where youth empowerment policies were often poorly implemented or underfunded.

Read Also: Tinubu congratulates Shinkafi-Bagudu on historic UICC presidency

“Evidently, Senator Bagudu’s performance as Minister of Budget and Planning is underpinned by his great foresight. Amidst the noise and complaints surrounding critical economic reforms, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the deregulation of the foreign exchange market, Senator Bagudu has remained steadfast in his support of these policies.

“He has demonstrated a deep understanding of their long-term benefits for Nigeria’s economy, recognizing that short-term pain is sometimes necessary for long-term gain. His advocacy for these policies has helped to shape public discourse and build support for the administration’s reform agenda.”

The CSO recommended areas for improvement, including enhancing public engagement, intensifying monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and expanding youth empowerment programs.

Opialu emphasised the importance of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.

October 14, 2024
SAN seeks AGF’s intervention in human rights violation by Enugu monarch

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chukwuemeka Ofodile has petitioned the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice and the Minister of Police Affairs, requesting for an investigation into frivolous allegations, constant harassment, intimidation and flagrant violation of the rights of his clients who are prominent sons of Agunese Mmaku Autonomous Community in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State.

Ofodile demanded for a probe of the alleged roles played by the traditional ruler of Agunese community, His Royal Highness Igwe Cyprian Maduabuchi Nevobasi and security personnel, in the ordeal of his clients, namely Vincent Okafor Esq., Theophilus Chukwu, David Okeke, Chief Okeke Emmanuel Uwa, Chief Ochie Moses Cuka, Chief Okolie James Ikegwuonu and Chief Simeon Ogbonna Okike.

The senior lawyer equally asked for the investigation of the roles allegedly played by the security officers involved in the entire saga of arrests and incarceration of his clients, particularly the involvement of two officers of the Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D) of the Enugu State Police Command, Blessing Oguche and one Nnamdi, to see whether due process was followed.

The petitioner urged the Minister of Justice and his Police Affairs counterpart to order the immediate release of his clients who are still being incarcerated at the Enugu Correctional Centre for bailable charges, most of which are baseless.

The petition dated September 19, 2024 was made available to reporters in Abuja.

The petition reads in part: “Note that sometime in 2022, HRH igwe Cyprian Novebasi maliciously attempted to mislead and weaponise government agencies by filing a baseless petition to the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security departments, falsely accusing 16 prominent men of Agunese community, including our clients whose names appear in this petition, of sponsoring the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

“This was a blatant attempt to silence these young and progressive individuals who opposed his oppressive rule and to force them into submission or exile. When his deceitful plot was exposed and rejected, he was compelled to retract the false allegations. However, since his initial scheme failed, HRH Igwe Cyprian Maduabuchi Nevobasi has now resorted to fabricating new charges, accusing these same men of inciting local conflict and violence, this time, leveraging corrupt police officers to arrest and intimidate them.

“His actions are clear abuse of his traditional office, as he continues to mislead authorities and manipulate the justice system to prosecute these individuals for standing against his tyranny. We urge the authorities to see through these repeated attempts to use false claims as a means of consolidating his power and oppressing his critics.”

The lawyer insisted that it was the calculated efforts of the monarch to strike mercilessly on gentlemen of goodwill in the community, by using the Nigeria Police Force and the DSS to haunt, harass, intimidate, arrest, and instigate baseless court charges to instill fear in them and other well-meaning members of the community.

He noted that since after the December 30, 2021 town union elections, which the monarch thwarted and cancelled over alleged security threat, members of the community speaking up against him and his perceived rivals have been framed, arrested and accused of all kinds of trumped up charges.

He maintained that his clients were being persecuted because they insisted that the town union should function freely and independently, while it works in concert with the traditional stool for the overall development of the community.

He stated that officers of the Nigeria Police Force arrested Mr. Theophilus Chukwu and he was arraigned on May 8, 2024, and then released on August 13, 2024, only for him to be re-arrested on the same day and re-arraigned for the second time on August 20, 2024.

Read Also: Enugu monarchs shun southern rulers council parley

According to him, Chukwu’s offense was aligning with those opposed to the sale of community land by the monarch, and his philanthropy and goodwill, having mobilised illustrious sons of the community to pool their meager resources together to assist their neglected community in carrying out some self-help projects, such as the renovation of dilapidated schools and maintenance of rural roads, which did not appear to have gone down well with the traditional ruler.

The petitioner stated that Vincent Okafor as a private legal practitioner had filed a fundamental rights action on behalf of Mr. Theophilus Chukwu at the Port Harcourt Federal High Court, and he was arrested and detained.

“The officers of the Nigeria Police Force arrested Barrister Vincent Okafor on September 6, 2024. When the charge was shown to Vincent Okafor, he expressed complete surprise, saying he was not even in the village. On the day in question, August 13, 2024, he was in faraway Lagos, making an appearance for a client in charges No. M/44/2024-C.O.P vs. Odinaka Orji.

“Mr. David Okeke was brought to the Enugu State Correctional Centre without arraignment or remand order. The day they took him to court, the business of the court was over. They took him to State C.I.D Enugu detention. The State C.I.D rejected him and they took him to Enugu Correctional Centre.”

October 14, 2024
Journalists injured as thugs attack APC event in Bayelsa

Some reporters sustained injuries yesterday when hired thugs attacked the venue of a press conference by the Sagbama Local Government Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital.

Chairman, Federated Correspondents’ Chapel, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Bayelsa State Council, Mr Tife Owolabi, was among those injured as the thugs hit them with rods.

Owolabi bled from the forehead and left hand while Jacobson Park of People’s FM 93.1 had swelling in his hand where he was hit with a flagstaff.

Everyone scampered for safety and the event was halted until security men, including the state security outfit, Operation Doo Akpo, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Nigeria Police, arrived at the venue.

Read Also: Counter-terrorism: FG to acquire 24 M-346 jets, 10 Trekker helicopters

The event was later held with the Chairman, Sagbama Local Government Chapter of the APC, Jonah Abeke, announcing the indefinite suspension of seven members for alleged anti-party activities.

Those suspended are Peres Peretu, Matthew Karimo, Major Oputa, Tangi Samuel, King Bolouyi Sufadoh, Goodluck Ebomu and Youdio-gwei Benjamin.

Abeke said: “In the 2023 National Assembly, Presidential and gubernatorial election in Bayelsa State, they openly worked for Governor Douye Diri and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party. They made no pretence about their anti-party activities.

“It is on this note that we, the under-signed executives of the Sagbama Local Government Area APC, hereby suspend them indefinitely from the party.

“Their suspension is hereby transmitted to the State Executive Committee of our party for ratification.”

Abeke also condemned the attack.

October 14, 2024
Delta community issues ultimatum to NEPL for construction of Abura flow station

Emadadja community in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State has issued a 21-day ultimatum to NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL) to commence construction of the flow station at Abura or prepare to vacate the area.

The decision was communicated in a letter to the Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) by Ambassador Festus Oshemughen and Comrade Christopher Origbo, the President General and Secretary General of Emadadja community, respectively.

It reads: “It has been a long time since oil operations began in Emadadja Community.

“Throughout this period, the oil extracted here has been routed to Otu-Jeremi in Ughelli South LGA.

“Despite numerous efforts to establish a proposed flow station to assess production capacity over the years, these attempts have proven unsuccessful, leading to concerns that our benefits are being undermined.

“After much discussion, it was agreed that the flow station should be built as soon as possible; however, we have seen no progress to date.”

The letter added: “In light of these concerns, a community assembly meeting was convened, attended by all Executive Committee members, youth, women, and elders.

“Key issues contributing to the delay in constructing the flow station were discussed, and we found them deeply troubling.”

The community expressed frustration on “the hardship and underdevelopment faced by our residents amidst abundant resources.

“We have concluded that former NPDC, now NEPL, and their partners show little interest in the community’s development and the welfare of its people.

“Thus, we have resolved to give a 21-day ultimatum for immediate mobilization to the site for the construction of the flow station.

“We also demand the completion of all MoU projects that were agreed upon before the implementation of the PIA, as well as completion of the drilling processes for Wells 13 and 14, which have been abandoned.”

Read Also: Court declares Delta community ‘autonomous’

It also called on NNPC to urgently direct NEPL to revoke any contracts with the company currently engaged for the construction of the OML 65 flow station and ensure the proper management of the field.

The community representatives voiced their concerns regarding a joint venture partnership in London on August 3, 2022, stating that it holds no interest in developing phase 1 of the approved OML 65 project.

It rejected any further operations from these companies in their community.

“This position must be taken seriously, or we cannot guarantee the security and safety of OML 65 oil exploration on our land,” they warned.

Copies of the letter have also been forwarded to Delta Governor; the Commanding Officer of 63 Brigade in Asaba, Delta Commissioner of Police; the Managing Director of NEPL; Chairman of Udu LGA, and other relevant authorities.

October 9, 2024
Edo poll: INEC grants Ighodalo, PDP access to inspect election materials

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has agreed to allow Dr. Asue Ighodalo and his legal team to inspect the election materials and Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices used in the disputed Edo State governorship election.

The decision came after public protests by members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and mounting legal pressure from Ighodalo’s team, who are challenging the election results, alleging manipulation by the ruling party.

INEC had reportedly denied Ighodalo’s request to inspect the BVAS machines used in the September 21 governorship election, despite a court order.

However, in a letter dated October 8, 2024, INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner for Edo State, Dr. Anugbom Onuoha, denied accusations that the commission had blocked access to the election materials.

He reiterated INEC’s commitment to transparency and stated that the inspection will take place on October 9, 2024, at 10:00 AM at INEC’s Edo State headquarters.

The development was viewed by the PDP members as a significant victory for Ighodalo, who has consistently called for full disclosure to restore confidence in the electoral process.

The inspection will allow Ighodalo’s legal team to gather evidence they believe will expose irregularities and bolster their case before the election petition tribunal.

It was gathered that with only 48 hours remaining before the deadline to file their election petition, it is hoped that the PDP will have sufficient time to review the materials and submit their case.

Reacting to the news, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemin, State Chairman of the PDP, hailed the development as “a win for democracy and the rule of law.”

He also thanked the people of Edo State for their unwavering support during the protests.

“I want to thank all those who came out to protest in support of Ighodalo’s quest to reclaim his stolen mandate,” Aziegbemin said.

Read Also: Court asks INEC to recognise Abure as LP chair

While expressing dissatisfaction with the role of the police and INEC in the election, Aziegbemin remained confident in the judiciary, asserting that the courts would uphold the will of Edo voters.

“I have lost faith in the Police and INEC, who I believe colluded with the APC to steal the election, but I have absolute confidence in the Judiciary. They will do right by the people of Edo State.”

Although INEC’s decision has eased some tensions, it remains unclear if the PDP will call off its protests.

Aziegbemin emphasized the party’s commitment to continue highlighting what they perceive as illegal actions by the APC, INEC, and the Nigerian Police

“We are a proud and enlightened people,” Aziegbemin declared. “We have always chosen our leaders here in Edo, and I can assure you that we will send these unqualified pretenders back to where they came from”, he said.

October 9, 2024
Southeast youths laud interior ministry over Abia garment, shoe factory

The Coalition of Southeast Youths (CESYD) has hailed the Interior Ministry for launching a garment and shoe factory in Aba, Abia state.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday, October 8, by the coordinator of CSEYD, Wisdom Akunna, the project, undertaken in partnership with Erojim Nig Ltd, is expected to boost the local and national economy.

The group said the initiative marked a significant shift from the colonial punitive reformatory system imposed on inmates.

It also said the project would trigger economic growth, save hundreds of millions of taxpayers’ money, and provide vocational training for inmates.

The factory, launched by Interior Minister Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, aims to equip inmates with valuable skills to earn a living. CESYD praised Dr. Tunji-Ojo for introducing reforms in Nigeria’s custodial centers.

The group urged the Federal Government and National Assembly to increase budgetary allocations to the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) and Interior Ministry. This support would foster the “silent revolution” underway in these agencies.

“The Coalition of Southeast Youths (CESYD) has welcomed the opening of a Garment & shoe factory in Abia State. The successful launching of this project has lifted the hearts of the youths in Abia State and the Igbo nation at large, as this singular project will trigger the local and national economy; cut down/save the nation hundreds of millions of taxpayers money that would have been expended on kitting our officers/men of the correctional services. The buzz that this will trigger for allied industries can only be imagined.

“With today’s launch of a brand-new Garment & Shoe Factory in Aba, Abia State by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, this groundbreaking initiative carried out in partnership with Erojim Nig Ltd, has unfettered over 100years of colonial punitive reformatory system usually imposed on inmates, which the colonial masters bequeathed us.

Read Also: Tunji-Ojo hailed for significant reforms in correctional services

“CESYD is proud that the Interior Ministry under Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has provided a breathe of fresh air as our custodial centres now have for the first time in many decades, an opportunity for inmates to be equipped to better our society rather than finding their ways back to any of the 240 custodial centres.

“CSYED restate our previous call on the Federal Government of Nigeria and the National Assembly to, in the greater public interest, aggressively support the silent revolution taking place within the Interior Ministry by increasing budgetary allocations to the NCoS and indeed the Interior Ministry.

“We in the CESYD believe the best way to get even better results out of a performing Ministry or agency is by paying much more attention to such a Ministry.

“We therefore reiterate our earlier call that Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and his team be encouraged to complete the transformation process that agencies under that Ministry are currently undergoing”, the statement said.

CESYD also called on the President Tinubu administration to replicate the factory across all 36 states and the FCT.

Integrating this initiative with the Bank of Industry’s MSME empowerment drive would enable inmates to access loans and establish businesses after release.

The Aba factory and a similar furniture factory in Borno State are expected to transform the lives of inmates and contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.

October 8, 2024