The Nation Newspaper

Category: SouthEast

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.’
April 14, 2024
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.

April 14, 2024
‘Abia fixing roads for economic rejuvenation’

Governor Alex Otti says he is fixing and reconstructing roads in various communities to create access for economic rejuvenation in Abia State.

Governor Otti stated that his administration is deliberate in the infrastructural revolutions in Abia, adding that he is in government to impact lives positively.

The Governor, who was speaking in Umuahia, the state capital said “Rather than stressing on the provision of palliatives, his government is looking for more enduring solutions to the economic challenges of the people.

“We are looking at more enduring solutions. So all the things we do is actually to arm you, to give you an instrument and to teach you how to fish rather than giving you fish.

“Our people luckily are not very dependent. If we give them wings, they will fly.

“Think of the small and medium scale enterprises, think of the woman selling akara, the woman selling fish and tomatoes, once you give them access, they would succeed.

“So, when we are doing those roads it is deliberate, we know that the people who are producing foodstuff, that’s agricultural produce, in different communities, a lot of them are not able to take them to the town because there is no access.

Read Also: Release Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally, Abia Rep begs Tinubu

“This is one of the ways to empower them. What we are doing is what we expect will impact more positively and in a sustainable fashion than just sharing money and sharing rice, but that doesn’t mean we are not, but we are doing it, we are targeting the most vulnerable.”

The state chief executive announced that he would in the next few weeks flag off the reconstruction of the Osisioma-Ekeakpara-NNPC depot road.

He noted that the road is strategic to the economy of the state as it leads to the industrial zones of the state.

Otti also made public that work had started on Ohanku and Obohia roads in Aba in addition to 29 other roads where work is ongoing in various parts of Abia.

He said that his administration had awarded a contract for the reclaiming of the Ovom- Ogbor-Hill gully erosion and other erosion sites with the support of ecological funds, adding that the overall intention of his government is to make the environment habitable for the people.

The governor blamed the long time that it had taken to patch up many roads cut open in the ongoing operation free potholes, to the inability to source chippings due to the strike action embarked at various quarry sites.

On the salary arrears of some government agencies including ASCETA, ASUBEB, Abialine Network among others owed by previous administrations, Otti assured that workers in these parastatals would soon receive their arrears as they are being keyed into the system since the pensions have been defrayed.

The state chief executive noted that in a bid to ensure sanity across major cities of the state, a joint task force has been set up to deal permanently with the issues of touting, traffic offences, wrong parking, and extortion among other anomalies.

The Governor noted that work is ongoing at various Local government headquarters in addition to various communities and assured that his administration would continue to support the local government Mayors for more development projects at the grassroots level.

April 14, 2024
Otti assures new Immigration boss of support

The Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti has appreciated the outgoing Comptroller of Immigration Services, Abia State Command, C.I.S Alphonsus Ndupu for his commitment and dedication to duty and wished him well in his new position.

Otti was speaking when he received in the audience the outgoing Comptroller of Immigration Services in the State, Alphonsus Ndupu, who came in the company of his successor, C.I.S Mohammed Karfi to inform him of his transfer to Owerri zonal headquarters.

He regretted that though his stay in Abia was only for a few months, he was focused and did his best to enhance security in the State.

“We are surprised. Surprised because you have just been here for a few months and at a time when we were getting used to you, this transfer came but I believe it is all for the better, you are moving to the zonal office from the state office.

“To the best of my knowledge, this is uplifting. I want to congratulate you and wish you well.”

According to the governor, his government takes the issue of security very seriously as every other thing functions at the back of security.

He made public that security agencies in the state work in synergy and implored the new Comptroller of Immigration Services to familiarize himself with sister agencies in the state.

Read Also: Abia committed to growing businesses, says Otti

“Like you may have heard, we take security very seriously. It is our understanding that every other thing functions at the back of security.

“Your colleagues, in the military, in the police and other agencies, everyone thinks in the same direction. You also take time to familiarize yourself with them because we all work together.”

The governor assured the new Comptroller that Abia is hospitable, adding that the government would give him the needed support.

Speaking earlier, the outgoing Comptroller of Immigration Services in Abia State, Mr. Alphonsus Ndupu thanked the governor for being of immense assistance to the Immigration Services in Abia State and appealed to him to extend the same support and hand of fellowship to his successor.

In his speech, the new Comptroller of Immigration Services, Abia State Command, Alhaji Mohammed Karfi commended the Governor for not paying lip service to issues of security, maintaining that his posting to Abia is like a homecoming.

April 14, 2024
South East Development Commission Bill: Unlocking latent fortunes, fostering inclusion

By Jerry Wohu

In a nation as diverse as Nigeria, fostering unity and ensuring equitable development across all regions is crucial for sustainable progress. The establishment of the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) represents a significant stride towards addressing historical disparities and promoting inclusivity. Under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the establishment of SEDC will embody a commitment to uplifting marginalised communities and fostering national cohesion.

The inherent gains derived from an assented South-East Development Commission Bill will include:

Liberating South-Eastern Nigeria

The South-Eastern region of Nigeria has long grappled with infrastructural deficits, economic marginalisation, and social challenges. Despite its rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit, the region has faced barriers to development, hindering its full potential. The creation of the SEDC will herald a new era of liberation for South-Eastern Nigeria, empowering its people and unlocking opportunities for growth.

Economic Empowerment

The SEDC will play a pivotal role in catalyzing economic empowerment within the South-East. By investing in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, the commission will stimulate job creation and entrepreneurship. Access to funding, skills development programs, and market linkages will empower local businesses, driving economic growth and reducing unemployment rates. Through targeted initiatives, the SEDC will harness the region’s untapped potential, positioning it as a hub for innovation and economic prosperity.

Read Also; How governors usurp Ifa’s role in choice of traditional rulers

Infrastructure Development

Infrastructure deficit has been a major impediment to progress in the South-East. The SEDC’s mandate will include the development of critical infrastructure such as roads, railway, and energy facilities. By enhancing connectivity and accessibility, the commission will spur trade and investment, facilitating the movement of goods and services across the region. Improved infrastructure will also enhance the quality of life for residents, providing better access to healthcare, education, and essential services.

Social Integration

Promoting social integration and harmony is integral to the SEDC’s mission. Through community-based initiatives, the commission will foster dialogue, reconciliation, and understanding among groups in the South-East. Cultural exchange programmes, youth empowerment initiatives, and educational scholarships will promote social cohesion and celebrate the region’s diversity. By embracing inclusivity and tolerance, the SEDC will strengthen the social fabric of South-Eastern Nigeria, paving the way for peaceful co-existence and unity.

Beckoning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu: A Champion of Unity and Development

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to national unity and inclusive development will be exemplified through the establishment of the SEDC. His visionary leadership and dedication to bridging regional disparities will set the stage for transformative change in South-Eastern Nigeria. By prioritizing the needs of marginalised communities and championing initiatives that promote unity and cohesion, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated his commitment to building a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria for all.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a titan of vision and leadership, stands as a towering figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, revered for his unwavering commitment to the betterment of the nation in all its facets. The establishment of the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) under his stewardship will stand as a testament to his foresight, compassion, and dedication to fostering national unity and progress.

President Tinubu’s visionary leadership has continually propelled Nigeria towards greater heights, steering the nation through turbulent waters with wisdom and resilience. His astute understanding of the intricate socio-economic dynamics has enabled him to identify the pressing needs of every region, including the long-neglected South-East. With the passing of the SEDC bill, President Tinubu would exhibit his profound empathy and commitment to ensuring that no corner of Nigeria is left behind.

Beyond mere rhetoric; President Tinubu has consistently translated his vision into action, spearheading initiatives that tangibly transform lives and uplift communities. The SEDC would stand as a shining example of his proactive approach to governance, as it embodies his belief in empowering the marginalised and fostering inclusive development. Through this bold move, President Tinubu would not have only addressed historical injustices but will also lay the groundwork for a more equitable and prosperous future for all Nigerians.

President Tinubu’s commitment to bettering Nigeria transcends partisan divides, embodying a statesmanlike ethos that prioritises the collective welfare over narrow interests. His tireless efforts to bridge regional divides and promote national unity have earned him the respect and admiration of Nigerians across the spectrum. With the establishment of the SEDC, President Tinubu will once again underscore his resolve to build a more cohesive and resilient nation, where every citizen can thrive and contribute to the nation’s progress.

In President Tinubu; Nigeria finds a leader whose visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and profound empathy continue to inspire hope and confidence in a brighter tomorrow. As history unfolds, his legacy as a catalyst for positive change and unity will endure, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of the nation. Nigeria owes a debt of gratitude to President Tinubu for his transformative leadership and steadfast commitment to building a more prosperous and united nation for generations to come, even as all anticipate his assent to the SEDC Bill.

Conclusion

The South-East Development Commission represents a beacon of hope for the people of South-Eastern Nigeria. Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the SEDC will embody a bold step towards national unity, cohesion, and progress. By empowering communities, fostering economic growth, and promoting social integration, the SEDC will unlock the region’s full potentials, thus driving Nigeria towards a brighter future characterised by shared prosperity and inclusivity.

Jerry Wohu, Ph.D wrote from Nasarawa State University, Keffi.

April 13, 2024
Abia committed to growing businesses, says Otti

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, says his administration has in the last 10 months worked towards growing businesses and attracting new ones into the state.

Otti described Abia as an investment-friendly state, saying that it is his desire to see businesses operating in the state grow.

The governor stated this when he met with the Managing Director and management team of the Inner Galaxy Steel Company Limited, a Chinese conglomerate operating in the Ukwa-West axis of Abia State, who visited him.

“It is our policy to support the industry. Some of the things we are doing are geared towards supporting existing industries and attracting new ones.

Read Also; How governors usurp Ifa’s role in choice of traditional rulers

“I encourage you to continue to do business in Abia State because we are investment-friendly. We have just set up the Abia Industrial Innovation Park (AIIP) in Owaza.

“If there are some collaborations, since you are already in Ukwa West, we will tell the Managing Director of the AIIP to engage with you, ” Otti told the visiting Chinese team, adding that, it is only when investments grow that businesses can employ the teeming unemployed Abia youths.

He charged the company on fair labour practices as a way of attracting the government’s continued support, while allaying their fears of clamping down on them following allegations of not providing a conducive working environment for their workers.

The governor encouraged the company to collaborate with the management of the Abia Industrial Innovation Park so as to take advantage of the opportunities provided in the area.

Earlier, the Managing Director of the company, Mr. Lin Shanbiao, explained that Inner Galaxy is a conglomerate of four companies that are into steel production, trailer parts assembly, battery production for automobiles, and recycling of used bottles.

He said their visit was to inform the governor about their activities and to see how to partner with the state government in various ways.

He said the company was facing labour shortages and encouraged interested Abia youths to come forward and take up jobs in the organisation.

April 13, 2024
Enugu monitoring team pays surprise visit to council HQ

Members of the Enugu State Monitoring Team on Work Attendance and Productivity have paid an unscheduled visit to the Ezeagu Local Government headquarters at Aguobu-Owa where they issued queries to absentee council workers and also read the riot act to civil servants in the state.

The team was received by the Chief Executive Officer, Administration, at the council, Mrs. Lorita Akwuchie.

The unscheduled visit followed a video, which went viral on social media, recently, showing the local government headquarters deserted on Friday, April 5, contrary to the directive of the state governor, Dr. Peter Mbah Administration to civil servants in the state to revive productivity by working five days in a week.

It will be recalled that the Mbah administration is currently undertaking a staff audit of local government councils as it emerged that many of the people on the payroll, who also transit to the state’s pension payroll, do not come to work at all, while many others live outside the state and the country even as they draw salaries and other benefits from the local government system.

Read Also; How governors usurp Ifa’s role in choice of traditional rulers

However, the voice-over in the viral video narrated that no single staff member was found on duty, a development that drew the wrath of the government and the general public.

Taking a tour of all the offices and departments in the council headquarters, the team, which comprised the Head of Service, Mr. Kenneth Ugwu; Principal Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ken Chukwuegbo; Chairman, Enugu State Chapter of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Ben Asogwa; and the Chairman, Joint Public Service Negotiating Council, Comrade Ezekiel Omeh, among others, met only 36 out of the over 200 council workers.

The team vowed that the acts of negligence and absence from duty without permission by the council workers would not go unpunished and reminded civil servants across the state that productivity remained the watchword in the Governor Peter Mbah Administration.

The Head of Service, Mr. Ugwu, who led the Monitoring Team directed that queries be issued to all the council workers not found on duty.

“As you are aware, the administration is carrying out a diligent audit of the local government workforce in the state. The standard is that you must not only come to work, you must also have assigned responsibilities and proof of fulfilling them. We are also introducing an electronic clock-in. The watchword is productivity because that is the only way to build our economy from $4.4bn to $30bn because every segment of the society and every arm and every organ of government must contribute its quota for that growth to be possible,” Ugwu said.

April 13, 2024
Hoteliers in Ndokwa decry years of blackout, appeal to Tinubu for help

Members of the Ndokwa Association of Hotel Owners in Delta State have cried out over the total lack of public power supply to the area, particularly Ndokwa East and Ndokwa West LGAs, for over six years now despite the enormous contributions of the area to the nation’s economy from the huge oil and gas deposits in their land.

Speaking through their spokesman, Dr Charles Olisa, the group pleaded with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and see that the matter is speedily addressed.

Dr Olisa said the deplorable situation has made most businesses in the area fold up, discouraged investors from investing in the area, and increased the migration rate of youths out of the area, among other consequences of the absence of power in the area.

Read Also; How governors usurp Ifa’s role in choice of traditional rulers

He said that power supply should be given in this age and urged the president to come to the aid of the people of the area by charging the management of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) to restore power supply to the area immediately. He said this would be an immediate solution to the problem.

The group also appealed to the president to use his good offices to expedite action on the completion of the Okpai Independent Power Project from which every community in the area is supposed to be powered.

The group noted that nineteen years after the first phase of the Okpai IPP was inaugurated by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in April 2005, the host and adjoining communities are yet to begin to enjoy its benefits.

They begged President Tinubu to address the issue and expressed confidence that Mr President would do so immediately.

April 13, 2024
Ngige hails Ogbonnaya Onu

Former Governor of Anambra State and two-time Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, has mourned the death of the former Governor of Old Abia State and immediate past Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu.

Ngige expressed shock and deep grief over the demise of Onu, describing his exit as an unquantifiable loss to Nigeria, the entire Igboland, and the South East geo-political zone in particular.

He noted that the account of political development in the country, especially from the truncated Third Republic till date, cannot be complete without mentioning Dr Onu’s positive contributions.

According to him, when Nigerians needed a change from the 16- year rule of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Onu made himself the sacrificial lamb to offer Nigerians an alternative in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Read Also; How governors usurp Ifa’s role in choice of traditional rulers

Ngige recalled with nostalgia, their first meeting in 1993 when Onu was the Governor of Abia State on the platform of the National Republican Convention (NRC) and himself, the President of the Igbo socio-economic think-tank, Aka Ikenga, to discuss South East regional integration.

He said, “We got closer in 2012 during the formation of APC. At that time, I belonged to the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) with the current President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Bisi Akande, Segun Osoba, and others. As a matter of fact, I volunteered, and was assigned the role of monitoring Dr. Onu to continue with the merger discussion, during which he selflessly gave up his ANPP National Chairmanship to see that the merger succeeded.

“The merger of ANPP, Muhammadu Buhari’s Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), our party, ACN, and a faction of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) led by then Imo State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, produced the ruling APC in 2013.

“By 2015, we ousted the PDP and became the ruling party at the centre. I was appointed Minister of Labour and Employment, and Onu, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation. Both of us served eight years in the Federal Executive Council (FEC) under President Muhammadu Buhari.

“As a former colleague in the FEC, I remember his intelligent contributions to memos during our weekly meetings. The country lost a teacher, an erudite scholar, intellectual, politician and public servant par excellence.”

April 13, 2024
Gunmen kill four in Anambra

Fear has gripped Anambra residents again, as gunmen return to the state, killing four persons in two days including former President General of Amansea Community, Chief Cajetan Nwokike

The three other unidentified victims were killed Thursday in Awka capital city, including an unnamed park manager.

Some of these killings are being attributed to alleged cult wars in Awka, but some residents who spoke with The Nation Thursday said it’s the return of gunmen.

The killing of the former Amansea community PG in Awka South Local Government Area was another assassination of a community leader in the state, in less than two months.

It will be recalled that the President General of Umuoji, Idemili South Local Government Area Chief Silas Onyima was killed about two months ago. He was buried last weekend

Read Also; How governors usurp Ifa’s role in choice of traditional rulers

Nwokike’s killing was revealed by Omife I. Omife, the National President of the Association of Past Presidents-General of Anambra State, in a statement on Friday.

According to him, the victim was fatally shot by the assailants while performing his customary morning prayers (breaking the kola nut) in his residence in Amansea.

The gunmen, said to be two young men, entered his home and mercilessly shot him at point-blank range, resulting in his instant death.

The statement read in part,” The Association of Past Presidents-General of Anambra State (APPAS) has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and urged Governor Soludo and law enforcement agencies to spare no effort in apprehending the perpetrators responsible for these heinous acts.

“The community is reeling from the loss of another esteemed leader, emphasizing the urgent need for swift and decisive action to bring the culprits to justice and restore peace to the state.”

Though the state Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Ikenga Tochukwu’s phone was not available at the time of filing this report for confirmation, a senior police officer in the state confirmed the deaths to The Nation.

The source said the state police commissioner, Aderemi Adeoye, had detailed men of the command to fish out the perpetrators of such crimes, while the Joint Security Forces JSF had moved immediately.

According to the source, “Those people can never go free, they are gradually returning here, but the command under CP Adeoye would not allow such to happen.”

Meanwhile, security operatives were seen parading in different vehicles and different locations on Friday, including Vigilance outfits.

April 13, 2024