The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • Don’t desecrate courts while fighting corruption, anti-graft CSOs caution EFCC, others

    Don’t desecrate courts while fighting corruption, anti-graft CSOs caution EFCC, others

    Anti-Corruption Civil Society Organisations(CSOs) have advised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) not to desecrate the courts in the course of carrying out its constitutional role of fighting corruption.

    The CSOs and human rights crusaders cautioned the EFCC and other anti-graft agencies against trampling on the rights of supposed suspects of corruption in order to avoid breaking a law to enforce another law.

    The activists, who spoke at a briefing in Lagos on Thursday, noted specifically that the recent public face-off between the EFCC and a former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello in Abuja, was “both unnecessary and unfortunate.”

    The Executive Chairman of the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL), Debo Adeniran,suggested that the rush by the EFCC to make an arrest, when the Court of Appeal hearing on its application to vacate the restraining order was just in a few days, might give credence to allegations of political persecution.

    “Mr. Olukoyede is my friend. But if he begins to trample on the rule of law, then that’s the terminal point of our friendship,” Adeniran said.

    The CSOs noted that the EFCC’s action on Wednesday was “tantamount to the agency preempting the outcome of its appeal and also violating a subsisting and valid court order to pause action pending the determination of the case before it.”

    “Our layman’s understanding is that a Court of coordinate jurisdiction cannot assume superiority over another,” they noted.

    Gbenga Soloki of the Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence, who also spoke, said civil societies in Nigeria would protest vehemently against any attempt to use the military to arrest an individual who had not been accused of treason.

    “It is extremely disappointing to hear this afternoon that EFCC is threatening to involve the military in their desperation to forcefully or violently arrest an individual who has not been alleged of treason.

    “Should that happen, we will be a laughing stock globally. Civil society will be active in protesting against such unforgivable infraction on our democracy should it happen as threatened. It should better not happen,” he said.

    Adeniran stated, “We do not consider Yahaya Bello a saint, but even the devil deserves his rights under the law. Court documents at our disposal show that the former Governor had obtained a High Court restraining order on the EFCC not to arrest or prosecute him pending the determination of a case of the enforcement of his fundamental human rights, which the Commission has rightfully appealed with the intention of vacating.

    “The Commission has done very well up to this point following the due processes of law because without vacating that order, it cannot proceed with arresting the suspect.

    “According to available court documents, hearing on the appeal has been slated to come up on Monday April 22nd in Abuja. However, suddenly yesterday (Wednesday) the news of the foiled arrest of the former Governor by the Commission went viral. One would have expected the Commission to wait for the determination of its own appeal before going after the suspect.

    “We think it is an abuse of court processes to ignore a court order still on appeal at the instance of the Commission and to obtain a warrant of arrest from another court on the same suspect.”

    The CSOs urged the EFCC to fight, prevent and prosecute corruption cases strictly within the ambit of the law set up to regulate the interaction between them and corruption suspects.

    They noted that laws, including the Nigerian criminal justice system regulations and court processes, were meant to be obeyed non-selectively by both state and non-state actors.

    The CSOs recalled that when the current Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, came on board last year, one of his promises was to operate strictly within the rule of law.

    Read Also: BREAKING: EFCC declares Yahaya Bello wanted over alleged N80bn ‘financial crimes’

    “For those who are likely to misinterpret this intervention as it is their regular trademark, this goes beyond Yahaya Bello. Injustice to anyone should not be allowed to stand because it may be your turn tomorrow,” they noted.

    The activists therefore urged the EFCC to revert to status quo antebellum pending the determination of its appeal and a vacation of the restraining order placed on it, saying “that is the way and dictate of the law.”

    The press conference was attended by Comrades Debo Adeniran, Executive Chairman, Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership CACOL); Sina Loremikan, (Campaign Against Impunity); Declan Ihekhaire, (Activists for Good Governance); Gbenga Soloki, CADOV; Ochiaga Ohaneze, (Ohaneze Youth Council); Funmi Jolade, (Women Democratic Vanguard); Kola Abe, (Centre for Socioeconomic Rights); Ologun Ayodeji, (Transparency and Accountability Group); Femi Lawson, (Centre for Public Accountability) and Gbenga Ganzallo (Media Rights Campaign), among others.

  • Defamation: Coalition threaten legal action against online media

    Defamation: Coalition threaten legal action against online media

    A coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), has cautioned an online media platform to retract a defamatory story about a philanthropist or face potential legal action.

    Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, recognized for his philanthropy and as a licensed agent of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), according to the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria (CCSON), was unjustly accused of smuggling in an unsubstantiated publication by the online outlet.

    The coalition expressed regret over the misuse of journalism by individuals who label themselves as “investigative journalists” without adhering to ethical standards.

    According to Alvin Ahmed, the Executive Secretary of the Centre for Ethical Conduct, Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE) at a press briefing by over 15 CSOs on Tuesday in Abuja, the coalition believes that falsely accusing individuals in the guise of investigative journalism without proof can deter good deeds.

    He said: “In the realm of community development and philanthropy, Alhaji Dende Egungbohun stands as a shining example of generosity and compassion.

    “Through his foundation, the IBD Dende Foundation, and personal outreach efforts, it is no news that he has touched countless lives, providing welfare packages, donations to churches and mosques, and spearheading community infrastructure projects.

    “From the construction of diverse basic social amenities to catering for medical bills, electrification projects, youth employment and empowerment, and school fees for the less fortunate in the society, to mention a few, Alhaji Dende’s commitment to uplifting and impact in society knows no bounds.

    “Yet, despite his selfless contributions to society, Alhaji Dende finds himself the target of baseless accusations and malicious slander.

    “For some months, certain individuals masquerading as investigative journalists have waged relentless campaigns of defamation, hurling unfounded allegations without a shred of evidence to support their claims.

    “One incident cited as justification for these attacks involves over two years old interaction viral videos which involve Alhaji Dende mediating in altercations between some clearing agents and Customs officials while passing by the scene of the occurrence.

    “Let us be unequivocal in seeking redress for the distasteful treatment as a Nigerian and certified agent is not only a fundamental right but a moral imperative.

    “To suggest otherwise is to grossly misrepresent the facts and impugn the characters of upstanding citizens.

    “It is also imperative to differentiate between smugglers and certified customs-licensed clearing and forwarding agents.

    “Alhaji Dende falls squarely into the latter category. He is a law-abiding individual who operates within the confines of the law, upholding integrity and compliance with the provisions of the Constitution at every turn.

    “Any insinuations to the contrary are not only baseless but a gross miscarriage of justice.

    The coalition lamented that journalism was being tainted by personal agendas beyond informing, educating, entertaining and contributing positively to society, which the profession is traditionally admired and respected for.

    Ahmed emphasized that unprofessional “investigative journalists” lacking integrity are detrimental to the field of journalism, undermining the efforts of professionals who prioritize truth, accuracy, and objectivity in their work, saying, “Perhaps most concerning of all is the damage inflicted upon the journalism profession with these baseless accusations.

    “Journalism, at its core, is a noble pursuit – a bastion of truth, integrity, and accountability. Yet, the actions of the individuals behind this charade have brought shame upon our profession, tarnishing the reputations of journalists everywhere.

    Read Also: Stakeholders call for coalition to tackle unintended pregnancy, unsafe abortion

    “Therefore, let us be clear in our demand for apologies from the individuals responsible for these baseless accusations.

    “If they fail to retract their publications and issue public apologies, we will have no choice but to pursue legal actions to protect Alhaji Dende’s reputation and integrity.

    “If the society allows just anybody to wake up and begin to run down hardworking individuals for personal reasons, the country would end up discouraging such people and ultimately hand Nigeria over to charlatans and people of low moral capacity”.

  • Southeast Development Commission: Fostering national cohesion post-civil war

    Southeast Development Commission: Fostering national cohesion post-civil war

    By Cosmos Ndukwe

    The Southeast Development Commission (SEDC) Bill, sponsored by Benjamin Kalu, will be a gift from the president to Ndi Igbo when signed into law.

    The Deputy Speaker, having watched the body language of the president, proposed the Bill.

    With the efforts of the Southeastern parliamentarians, he pushed it through both chambers. It is now awaiting the assent of Mr. President.

    While pleading for a quick assent, we have the belief that this bill stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to healing the wounds inflicted by the Civil War and fostering cohesion among its diverse populace.

    Emerging from the shadows of a tumultuous past, this commission embodies the resilience of the Nigerian spirit and offers a beacon of hope for a brighter, more united future.

    This bill failed in the eighth and ninth National Assembly sessions.

    Now, many thanks to the President, the JAGABAN of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who has a special love for Igbos and who has shown visible body language towards healing the scars of the civil war in Igbo land, the bill will soon become law.

    Now that the scars of the Civil War, also known as the Biafran War, are healing fast, this Commission will surely help to strengthen reconciliation.

    Decades of conflict, economic disparity, and political marginalisation that left the Southeast region grappling with underdevelopment and disillusionment will be permanently healed.

    The establishment of SEDC marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey towards genuine reconciliation and progress.

    One of the most significant aspects of SEDC is its mandate to address the socio-economic challenges facing the Southeast region.

    Through strategic investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, the commission aims to uplift communities, empower individuals, and bridge the gap between the Southeast and other regions of Nigeria.

    By prioritising inclusive development, SEDC is laying the groundwork for a more equitable and prosperous future for all Nigerians.

    Moreover, SEDC will play a crucial role in promoting national unity and cohesion.

    By acknowledging the unique needs and aspirations of the Southeast region, the Commission sends a powerful message of inclusivity and solidarity.

    It recognises that true unity cannot be achieved through neglect or marginalisation but requires proactive efforts to address historical grievances and build trust among all segments of society.

    Furthermore, SEDC serves as a platform for dialogue and reconciliation. Through its programmes and initiatives, the Commission fosters constructive engagement between the government, local communities, and stakeholders.

    By creating avenues for participation and collaboration, SEDC promotes understanding, respect, and mutual recognition among Nigerians from different backgrounds.

    However, the success of SEDC hinges on effective governance, transparency, and accountability.

    The Commission must operate with integrity and efficiency, ensuring that resources are allocated judiciously and projects are implemented effectively.

    By upholding principles of good governance, SEDC can earn the trust and confidence of the people it serves, thereby maximising its impact and relevance.

    In conclusion, the President’s body language in showing respect and love for Igbos, and the National Assembly passage of the Southeast Development Commission represents a significant step towards national cohesion and reconciliation after the Civil War.

    By addressing the socio-economic needs of the Southeast region and fostering inclusive development, the Commission is laying the groundwork for a more united and prosperous Nigeria.

    However, its success ultimately depends on the commitment of all stakeholders to work together in the spirit of unity, understanding, and mutual respect.

    Igbos acknowledge the love of Mr. President, the collective effort of the National Assembly members, the push by Rt. Hon. Kalu and his perseverance to push SEDC through both houses.

    This bill, once signed into law, will fulfill its mandate and contribute to a brighter future for all Nigerians.

    *Rt. Hon Ndukwe, Ph.D (ManofGod), is the Abajiulo Item and 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant.

  • Reconciliation, rehabilitation and re-integration: SEDC as a panacea

    Reconciliation, rehabilitation and re-integration: SEDC as a panacea

    The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) was established in 2000 by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, with the sole mandate to developing the oil-rich Niger Delta region of Nigeria. It was created as a quick response to end youth restiveness that degenerated into daily kidnapping and maiming of oil workers in the area which nearly crippled the economy of the country. Despite its creation, the minorities of the Niger Delta have continued to agitate and demand for greater autonomy and control of the area’s petroleum resources.

    The people of the Niger Delta justified their grievances by reference to the extensive environmental degradation and pollution from oil  activities that have occurred in the region since the late 1950s.

    Till date, through the NDDC, the Niger Delta region has witnessed developmental strides in infrastructure such as housing/renovations, road construction/rehabilitation, building of hospitals, university/schools and granting of scholarships to indigent students in the area, among other interventions.

    In the same vein, the establishment of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), in 2017, was primarily to coordinate the resettlement, rehabilitation, integration and reconstruction of infrastructures which was damaged as a result of insurgency (Boko Haram menace), as well as tackling the menace of poverty, illiteracy, ecological challenges in the North Eastern States and other related matter. So far, both NDDC and NEDC, are living up to the mandates to which they were established.

    However, the people of the South East region of Nigeria, appears to be in the huge disadvantage in all ramifications of life decades after the civil war which has left the entire region in ruin ever since. Regrettably, the 3Rs vision of reconciliation, rehabilitation and re-integration by the General Gowon regime aimed at addressing the plights of the region was without success. This is even as they have chosen to pursue their genuine demands ever since in a subtle disposition.

    Luckily, there seems to be a ray of hope with the passage of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) bill by both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The South East Development Commission bill is not a new phenomenon in the National Assembly, but it has gained traction at the beginning of the 10th Assembly, due to the enigmatic and pragmatic leadership of Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker. The SEDC bill has since received the nod of the Green Chamber.

    The Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio and his colleagues have equally passed the bill and the next step will be to step up the Conference Committee to reconcile any differences.

    The rapid acceleration of the SEDC bill in this 10th Assembly, is indeed a cheering news. This same bill never saw the light of the day in both the 8th and 9th Assemblies and Kudos to the remarkable leadership of President Bola Tinubu, who has truly demonstrated the Renewed Hope agenda to the Southeast region.

    No doubt, the President will assent to the bill when presented to his office, considering the positive and meaningful impact of similar commissions in the Niger Delta and North East.

    Ndigbo are hopeful that the South East Development Commission will address the untold marginalization faced by her region since the end of the civil war.

    Read Also: South East Development Commission Bill: Unlocking latent fortunes, fostering inclusion

    Above all, the SEDC, when established, will definitely address infrastructural deficit in the area, provide quality education and advance our school infrastructure and its standard by offering teachers continuing education as well as providing scholarships to indigent students, skill acquisition, employment opportunity to the people, including the restive youths, provide quality health care and improve socio-economic activities.

    The people of the South East have suffered for so long and have been made to retrogress due to lack of commitment to their general well-being by successive government. But President Bola Tinubu’s name is about to be written in gold as the President who signed the SEDC bill into law when it finally lands on his table. Ndigbo will eternally remain grateful to him if this is achieved, bearing in mind that the vision of reconciliation, rehabilitation and re-integration have finally been realized after many years in abeyance. 

    Ukoha is former Minority Whip Abia State House of Assembly.

  • Eno visits family of late Nollywood make-up artist

    Eno visits family of late Nollywood make-up artist

    • Offers automatic employment to elder sister

    Akwa Ibom state governor on Saturday visited the family of the late Nollywood Make-up artist, Abigail Edith Frederick in Ikot Udoma, Eket local government of the state.

    Late Edith in a boat mishap recently alongside Junior Pope and other artists while on a journey to a movie location.

    Eno, on arrival from an official engagement in Abuja drove straight to the family compound of the late Nollywood make-up artist, where he consoled the bereaved family.

    Showing deep emotions, the governor made offers to assuage the pains suffered by the grieving family members.

    He thereafter gave an automatic employment in the State Civil Service to the surviving elder sister of the deceased, and directed the SSA on Humanitarian Services, Umo Ekpo to renovate the family house and bring it to modern standards.

    Read Also: If this is not genocide then what the hell is?

    The governor also assured of the state government’s assistance to the two sisters of the bereaved who are undergraduates at the University of Uyo, said to be sponsored by the late Nollywood make-up artist.

    “This is deeply unfortunate, a young girl, 24 years old, who finished her Youth Service just last year, and decided to pursue her passion.

    “This is a reflection of our Arise spirit. It shows that our young people are willing to go out there, not begging, not waiting for handouts, but to pursue their passions.

    “It is sad and unfortunate that her life ended the way it did.

    “Once I was fully briefed, I decided to come here personally with the full complement of the Government to console and encourage the family.

    “You are not just the governor when people are celebrating. In times and moments like this, you become the Mourner-in-Chief and give them hope.

  • Tompolo playing crucialroles in eradicating oiltheft, sabotage– IYC

    Tompolo playing crucialroles in eradicating oiltheft, sabotage– IYC

    • Hails ex-militant leader’s efforts towards Niger Delta’s political, economic survival

    The apex Ijaw youths’ body, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, has described a foremost ex-militant leader, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, as a harbinger of hope and development of the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.

    In a statement yesterday by the national spokesman for the group, Amb. Binebai Princewill, to commemorate the birth anniversary of Tompolo, the IYC said the renowned Niger Delta and Ijaw leader had paid his dues for the economic and political survival of the people of Ijaw nation and the region.

    Princewill said the entire Ijaw nation is proud of Tompolo as their highly revered leader owing to his sacrifices in the struggle to emancipate his people.

    Read Also: Tompolo playing crucial roles in eradicating oil theft, sabotage, says IYC

    The spokesman said through his company, Tantita Security Services, Tompolo had played a crucial role in securing crude oil pipelines, thereby preventing oil theft and sabotage.

    He said: “We are very lucky to have Tompolo in this present era of our nascent movement for resource control.

    “Tompolo’s leadership has been marked by unwavering dedication, resilience, and a commitment to the betterment of our communities. His vision for a prosperous and empowered Niger Delta has inspired countless youths to actively participate in the struggle for justice and equity.

    “Furthermore, Tompolo’s exemplary leadership has been recognised and honoured by reputable organisations and citadels of learning. He has been bestowed with numerous awards and honorary doctorates in recognition of his outstanding contributions to society and his relentless pursuit of justice and equity.”

  • Amnesty Office to delegates: stipends for March already paid

    Amnesty Office to delegates: stipends for March already paid

    The Presidential Amnesty Programme has again reassured beneficiaries that it has paid the stipends for the month of March into their accounts.

    The Office explained in a statement at the weekend that the monies meant for all the beneficiaries have been released to the banks for lodgment into their accounts a week ago.

    The statement urged those who are yet to receive the stipends to check their accounts (transaction history) as the money would be in the accounts.

    Read Also: FG should increase Amnesty Programme’s budget, says Wilson

    The office commended the delegates for their maturity in dealing with the unforeseen development urging them to exercise more patients as all such funds have been paid directly into their accounts

    ”We wish to state that the funds for the disbursement of the March stipends have left the Amnesty account and we have received positive feedback from many of the beneficiaries.

    “The Office commends the delegates who are yet to receive the stipends for their patience and assures them that in no time the issues will be resolved.

    “The Amnesty Office has no reason to delay the payment of the monthly stipends and has not changed its process for the disbursement of the monthly allowance.

  • Fubara vows to protect Rivers interest

    Fubara vows to protect Rivers interest

    Rivers State Governor, Sir. Siminalayi Fubara, has vowed to protect the interest of the state especially the youths.

    Fubara spoke when he received the youths of Emohua Local Government Area under the auspices of “Emohua Youths For SIM” on solidarity visit to Government House, Port Harcourt.

    The governor in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Nelson Chukwudi, noted that his administration put in place modalities to boost the livelihood and wellbeing of Rivers citizens

    Read Also: We inherited near comatose health sector in Rivers, says Fubara

    The governor, who spoke through the Rivers State Head of Civil Service, Dr. George Nwaeke, said that the recently awarded Elele-Omudiaga-Egbeda-Ubimini-Ikiri-Omoku road, the ongoing Emohua-Kalabari road, reinstatement of illegally sacked workers of Emohua Local Government Area and the approval for electrification of the area, were part of deliberate measures to open up the council to make life conducive and meaningful for the people.

    He said:  “Everything about the governor is putting the interest of Rivers State first. He is looking at and taking action on those things that we need to do to restart the wheels of progress in Rivers State.

    “There are many things the governor has planned and is already doing that will boost the life and welfare of every citizen of Rivers State, but most importantly the youths.

    “Growing up, I learnt that Egbeda is one of the biggest communities in the whole of Ikwerre, and it’s predominantly an agrarian community. They have food in Egbeda, they have food in Ubimini, they have food in Omudiaga and other natural resources. The whole world is tilting to agriculture, and this is the way to go.”

  • Oshiomhole to PDP, LP defectors: Okpebholo is next Edo governor

    Oshiomhole to PDP, LP defectors: Okpebholo is next Edo governor

    • Receives Uroghide, others ahead guber election

    A former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has assured that the party’s governorship candidate for the September 21, 2024 election, Senator Monday Okpebholo, will succeed Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP’s) Governor Godwin Obaseki on November 12 this year.

    He stated that Okpebholo, the representative of Edo Central Senatorial District, and his running mate, Dennis Idahosa, who represents Ovia constituency in the House of Representatives, would be the youngest set of persons to govern Edo.

    Oshiomhole, an ex-Edo governor, who represents Edo North senatorial district, spoke yesterday at Crown Heights Pavilion, Country Home Road, off Sapele Road, Benin, at the carnival-like defection into APC of many bigwigs of PDP and Labour Party (LP).

    The defectors included a lawmaker in the 8th and 9th Senate for Edo South senatorial district, Matthew Urhoghide; a former Clerk of the National Assembly, Patrick Giwa, who hails from Owan West Local Government Area of Edo; and other top politicians.

    Urhoghide was immediately made the Director-General of Okpebholo/Idahosa Governorship Campaign Organisation, ahead of the April 24 commencement of campaigns in Edo.

    The event was also attended by a former deputy governor of Edo, Dr. Pius Odubu; the Majority Leader of House of Representatives, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, who represents Owan constituency of Edo state; and the governorship candidate of APC during the September 19, 2020 poll, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu; among other eminent politicians.

    Oshiomhole, who publicly apologised to Urhoghide for their earlier political disagreements, the mistakes he made and the errors that he committed, asking for his forgiveness.

    Read Also: Edo APC united, confident of victory in September poll, says Oshiomhole

    The leader of APC in Edo (Oshiomhole) said: “The PDP’s government of Obaseki has been underdeveloping Edo State for almost eight years. APC’s administration from November 12, 2024, by God’s grace, will right the wrongs, and ensure good governance.

    “Joining APC today (yesterday) of the chieftains of PDP, LP and their teeming supporters in Edo State mean so much to us. Together we will deliver the youngest governor and deputy governor in Edo State. Let us have the fighting spirit.

    “It is not when you join a political party that matters, but what you are bringing to the table. Let us work together to reclaim Edo State.”

    The former national chairman of APC also assured that the party’s governorship candidate defeating Obaseki-backed Dr. Asue Ighodalo, and LP’s Olumide Akpata, among others, was doable, with the right strategies put in place, without APC’s stakeholders entertaining any fear, but vigorously campaigning in the 192 wards, across the 18 LGAs of Edo.

    Urhoghide, in his remarks, stated that he returned to APC after 13 years of sojourn in PDP, in view of the trust and confidence he had in the leadership of APC.

    The former Senator (Urhoghide) said: “I have come back to the fold of mature politicians, in order to help build the APC. I did not come for bread and butter. All the stakeholders must come together, for APC’s governorship candidate to emerge victorious on November 12, 2024.

    “I have accepted my nomination as the DG of Okpebholo/Idahosa Governorship Campaign Organisation. The task is huge, but surmountable. It is not going to be an easy journey, but by the grace of God, we will win the governorship election. I will need the support of everybody to achieve victory.

    “We will make promises during the campaigns, and the promises will be fulfilled. That’s why my people in Edo South Senatorial District nicknamed me ‘The Promise Keeper.’

  • NDDC connects sub-station to power five LGAs in Ondo

    NDDC connects sub-station to power five LGAs in Ondo

    The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has completed and connected the 132/33kv electricity sub-station it built at Ode-Erinje in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State to the national grid.

    Speaking during an inspection of the project, NDDC’s Executive Director, Projects, Sir. Victor Antai, described the power station as a legacy project that would boost economic activities in Ondo State and improve the living standards of the benefiting communities.

    Antai, in a statement signed by the NDDC Director, Corporate Affairs, Pius Ughakpoteni, said that the commission was committed to providing electricity to oil-producing communities in Ondo South Senatorial District that had been without power for the past 15 years.

    He said the sub-station would be inaugurated this month.

    Antai said: “The power sub-station is a legacy project which is in line with the directive of our Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, to see to the completion and commissioning of legacy projects that will make meaningful impact on the lives of our people.

    “The MD/CEO has also directed that we replicate this legacy project across all states in the Niger Delta and we thank the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for giving the NDDC a performing Governing Board that has the interest of the people at heart.

    Read Also: NDDC connects sub-station to power five Ondo councils

    “We are committed to lighting up all the local government areas and the oil-producing communities in Ondo South Senatorial District.

    “This is part of NDDC’s mandate to provide infrastructure and development projects in the Niger Delta region. The Commission is committed to fulfilling this mandate by completing all on-going projects.”

    Speaking for the contracting firm, Benson Obayelu, said that the scope of the power project covered the evacuation of light from Omotosho with a step down at Ode-Erinje, Okitipupa, through a 132KV double circuit transmission line with two 30/40MVA transformers.

    He said that the scope covered the evacuation of light from Omotosho with a step down at Ireje through a 132KV double circuit line with two 30/40MVA transformers at Okitipupa.

    In his remarks, the Acting National Chairman of the Traditional Rulers of Oil Mineral Producing Communities of Nigeria, TROMPCON, Dr. Obafemi Ogbaro, said that in Ondo South Senatorial District, nothing mattered more than being connected to the national grid of the country, lamenting that his people had been in darkness for many years.