The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southeast report

  • Rivers community protests Agip’s alleged neglect

    Rivers community protests Agip’s alleged neglect

    By Mike Odiegwu, Port Harcourt

    The people of Nkpolu Oroworukwo community in Port Harcourt City Local Government of Rivers State, who host the Nigeria Agip Oil Company’s (NAOC’s) corporate headquarters in Port Harcourt, have protested their alleged neglect by the oil multinational.

    They on Wednesday staged a peaceful demonstration at the main gate of the company under the aegis of Nkpolu Oroworukwo Stakeholders Development Forum (NOSDF) and called on Agip to fulfil its corporate social responsibility to its host.

    The Chairman of NOSDF, Livingstone Wechie, who led the protest, said NAOC has consistently denied the community its due rights and privileges in the areas of employment, contracts, scholarships, skills acquisition, infrastructure and social amenities.

    He regretted that there was no identifiable project in their community that could be credited to NAOC such as roads, hospitals, scholarships, employment, schools and water.

    He said: “NAOC has refused to fully implement any of the skewed and dried Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), upgrade or renew same in any manner that will genuinely expand and make lasting resourceful impact on the people of Nkpolu Oroworukwo in line with its corporate social responsibilities.

    “It has not captured Nkpolu Oroworukwo in any Global Memorandum of Understanding (GMOU). This by itself is betrayal of global best practice and sabotage of the Rivers State Government and Federal Government efforts towards peace and development in the Niger Delta, Nkpolu Oroworukwo in particular.

    “Regrettably, there are no identifiable projects in Nkpolu Oroworukwo credited to Agip ENI NAOC ranging from roads to hospitals,  scholarships,  employment, empowerment opportunities, contract opportunities, schools, or even boreholes or community town halls and civic centre to say the least. We challenge NAOC to contest these facts.”

    The community said the company had over the years denied them employment opportunities, among other privileges.

    “It is also on record that NAOC appears to have as a rigid policy to deliberately shut Nkpolu Oroworukwo people out of their viable contract opportunities, empowerment and employment opportunities.

    “This is with exception to some of its divide and rule agents, which it continues to patronise at the detriment of the community. As long as NAOC is concerned, the community can die and nothing will happen. This is condemnable and absolutely unacceptable.

    “NAOC continues to treat Nkpolu Oroworukwo matters as a corporate policy of discrimination. They prefer to treat better those communities that have violent dispositions.

    “Every effort we have employed to ensure that NAOC rethinks its attitude towards our community has been flagrantly undermined by the management of the company, using their usual divide and rule tactics through some backend.

    “NAOC should be made to do the needful by answering as well as compensating for its deliberate corporate negligence and injustice.”

  • APC faction elects candidates for Rivers council poll

    APC faction elects candidates for Rivers council poll

    By Mike Odiegwu, Port Harcourt

    A faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State loyal to Senator Magnus Abe has elected candidates for the coming local government election, in party primaries held across the 23 councils.

    It was gathered that the party at the primaries held at designated venues across the state elected 319 councillorship candidates and 23 chairmanship standard-bearers in readiness for the local government election.

    At Bori, the venue for Khana Local Government Area primaries, the Organising Secretary of the party, Charles Befii Nwile, hoped that the APC would emerge victorious at the council poll scheduled for April

    Nwile, who is also the state Election Committee chairman, said he was also confident at the willingness of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to conduct a free, fair and credible local government election.

    Read Also: APC registration success will determine party’s chances in 2023 polls, says Bello

    A member of the Election Committee, Mr. Frank Chibuenyi, said their candidates were ready for the election and that the party would give them total support.

    Chibuenyi, who spoke at Orogbum Civic Centre, venue for the primaries of the Port Harcourt City Local Government, asked members across the state to support their candidates.

    Security officials and representatives of RSIEC observed the primaries that adopted a consensus model to produce the candidates.

    Some of the local government chairmanship candidates are Emmanuel Okocha, Obio/Akpor; Nyenwuna Obinda, Port Harcourt City; Innocent Ajaelo, Oyigbo LGA; Gboelo Smart, Khana; Charles Taleelo, Gokana among others.

  • MASSOB to governors: synergise against attacks

    MASSOB to governors: synergise against attacks

    By Nwanosike Onu, Awka

    Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) has called on governors of the Southeast states to engage pressure groups to build a synergy against further attacks in the zone.

    According to MASSOB, Igbo leaders and others would also be involved in the synergy.

    The group’s reaction followed the massacre in Orlu, Imo State, where 10 persons allegedly died in a clash between the military and suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)

    A statement on Tuesday by MASSOB leader, Uchenna Madu, said the crisis could be described as a childish play because Aba, Onitsha, Nsukka and Okigwe may soon catch fire.

    It reads: “Miyeti Allah, terrorist herdsmen and cabals in the presidency and President Muhammadu Buhari have succeeded in destroying Nigeria.

    Read Also: MASSOB fixes Nov. 26 for Ojukwu’s memorial anniversary

    “The Orlu incident is not different from the Okigwe massacre of 2003 or Onitsha crises of 2004, 2006 and Nkpor killings. Asaba, Obigbo, Aba, Umuahia, Okigwe, Owerri, Enugu, Abakiliki, Nsukka and Oji River have witnessed different dimensions of the revolutionary heat.

    “The current war-like situation in Orlu province of Biafra, between the forces of Biafra and Nigeria, have once again exposed the Federal Government’s partiality against the people of Biafra.

    “The Army is always eager and ever-ready to clampdown on pro-Biafra agitators, but always keep mum and inactive on the criminal and terrorist activities of herdsmen in Western, Eastern and Middle Belt regions.”

  • ‘Win Nov gov poll to prove Anambra belongs to PDP’

    ‘Win Nov gov poll to prove Anambra belongs to PDP’

    By Emma Elekwa, Onitsha

    A gubernatorial aspirant on the platform of the People Democratic Party (PDP) in Anambra state, Chief Ugochukwu Okeke has challenged party stakeholders to seize the governorship election slated for November 6, 2021 to prove their claims that the state belonged to them.

    He said the party’s claims the state was their birthright would only amount to rhetorics when in reality the party had over the years been denied that right.

    Addressing reporters shortly after a familiarization tour of four Local Government Areas in the state, Okeke lamented the abysmal performance of the party in the last governorship election which saw the party coming distant third.

    He blamed the ugly development on money bags politics and godfatherism that had characterised elections in the state, insisting that the party would only wrestle power from the ruling All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) when members determined to change the narratives.

    He said: “It would amount to mere rhetoric claims that Anambra is a PDP state when in reality it is not. Our last election in state, PDP came a distant third. We didn’t even come second.

    Read Also; Oyo PDP suspends chairman for alleged anti-party activities

    “It’s unheard of in a state that claims to be PDP state. If we must prove that claim, we must think outside the box and strive for excellence by doing things the right way this time.”

    Okeke who had been a PDP chieftain for over a decade, said his decision to remain in the party was informed by the passion and confidence he had for the party.

    He added: “You can only change the error from inside. PDP is a great party. There’s a desire in me to bring the best in the party. But unfortunately, we’ve continued to do the same thing same way and expect a different result. It’s wrong.

    “Politics is not only about money. It’s about integrity and interest, it’s about focus and accomplishment, doing things that will affect lives positively.

    “The need to bring change is a collective one, and the only way to make it happen is by remaining where you are.

    “Jumping ships has and will never solve any problem. Instead the problem persists as you move around. The best is to confront it head-on because you’ve seen the problems.”

    Asked why the party should trust him with its tickets, Okeke said, “Because I’ve been consistent, I’m one of their own. When they chose me as their secretary, there were many others in the party, even though it was short-lived, but they knew why they brought me.

    “That same reason is still inside me, that’s why I seek their support. They should trust me because they know that I’ll always do things that will benefit the majority of the people.”

    PDP chairman, Aniocha Local Government Area, Jude Ezeani expressed confidence in the party to provide credible process that would guarantee free and fair primary election.

    He described the aspirant as a party man and grassroot politician who had not taken advantage of his position to divide the party executives.

    A woman leader, Regina Okeke, said she was attracted to the aspirant due to his humility and simplicity, saying she had no doubt of his clinching the party ticket during the primary.

  • 88-year-old seeks N40m compensation for burnt house

    88-year-old seeks N40m compensation for burnt house

    By Bisi Olaniyi, Benin

    Pa. Olaye Anthony (88), owner of the storey building housing Ugbekun Police Station on Upper Sokponba Road, Benin, Edo State, has demanded N40 million as compensation for his burnt house.

    The building was razed in October 2020 during the #EndSARS protest.

    The octogenarian on Tuesday appeared before the State Judicial Panel of Inquiry for Victims of SARS and Related Abuses.

    His lawyer, Blessing Agbeta, said the elderly man decided to seek redress as the building was his retirement benefit.

    Read Also: Edo State raises medical team for ailing Eboigbe

    He said if government could rebuild the house, his client would be happy or, alternatively, he should be given N40 million as compensation.

    Agbeta said: “The house is a retirement benefit for the old man. At 88 years, that is where he earns money to take care of himself.

    “We are begging the panel to help us speak with Governor Godwin Obaseki to rebuild the house or compensate him so he can have a good living, pending when God will call him to glory.

    “Officers and men of the State Police command have been occupying the building since 1983, and they owe my client N3.6 million.”

  • Orlu crisis: ‘Ndigbo will blame Uzodimma for deaths’

    Orlu crisis: ‘Ndigbo will blame Uzodimma for deaths’

    By Sunny Nwankwo, Aba and Damian Duruiheoma, Owerri

    The factional leader of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chidi Ibeh, has said Ndigbo will hold Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma accountable for deaths in the Orlu crisis.

    Ibeh’s media adviser, Kalu Uduma, in a statement on Tuesday, faulted the military’s involvement in addressing civil disobedience.

    The group also called on President Muhammadu Buhari to dialogue with leadership of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to address issues leading to their continued agitation.

    He said: “We urge President Muhammadu Buhari to take appropriate actions to ensure there’s dialogue between him and IPOB, as what’s good for the goose is also for the gander.

    “Governor Uzodimma should be wary of the verdict of history. Whatever decisions taken today in the cause of protecting lives and properties should not involve military operations in civil disobedience or self-determination. Ndigbo will hold the governor accountable for any life lost in Imo State under any circumstances.”

    Read Also: Convention: APC appoints Uzodinma Southeast leader

    The Igbo National Congress (INC) has called on Uzodimma to call off the military campaign before it degenerates to a dangerous magnitude.

    The group condemned the invasion of Orlu communities by security operatives.

    A statement on Tuesday by the President, Chilos Godsent, called on Governor Uzodimma to intervene in the conflict and halt the destruction of lives and properties.

    The statement reads: “It may not be to the best interest of the Imo State and Federal Government to militarise any part of Igbo Nation in the disguise of fighting pro-Biafra agitators.

    “The police have the capacity to tackle crime in any part of Nigeria, if well mobilised and given a free hand to operate.”

    Chilos also urged the Federal Government to redeploy the soldiers ravaging Orlu communities to the highways where herdsmen are terrorising Nigerians.

    He feared that if the conflict is not quickly resolved, it might escalate to other communities in the state.

  • Edo pays N12m to families of five deceased workers

    Edo pays N12m to families of five deceased workers

     Bisi Olaniyi, Benin

     

    EDO State has presented cheques of over N12 million to the families of five deceased workers who were enrolled in the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

    Head of Service Anthony Okungbowa, while presenting the cheques on Tuesday, reassured the people that the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration would not relent in its efforts to cater for workers and pensioners.

    He said: “We have always prioritised workers’ welfare because we believe so much in them, and consider them essential for the success of our programmes and policies.”

    Okungbowa also sympathised with the bereaved families, saying the government appreciated and valued the efforts of their benefactors while in service.

  • Igbo coalition condemns attack

    Igbo coalition condemns attack

    Our Reporter

     

    THE Coalition of South East Professionals Network in Nigeria and Diaspora (CSEPNND) has condemned Monday’s clash between soldiers and the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State, in which 10 persons allegedly died.

    ESN is the security outfit floated by the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

    Governor Hope Uzodimma declared a dusk to dawn curfew in nine of the affected communities.

    The coalition said the development must not go unchecked since sovereign nations will not allow armed security groups operate without approvals and legal backing.

    It described ESN as an illegal contraption, and called on prominent Igbo sons and daughters to rise against the outfit.

    A statement on Monday by CSEPNND’s National President, Prof. Madumere Chika, warned that IPOB and its security outfit was jeopardising the Southeast’s chances in national affairs.

    The coalition accused IPOB founder, Nnamdi Kanu, of not having the interest of the Southeast at heart. It urged Federal and state authorities to disband the illegal outfit, and arrest and prosecute its operatives and sponsors.

    The statement reads: “We condemn the clash between our security operatives and ESN. There are laid down procedures and processes for establishing a security outfit which, in our humble submission, were never met by this illegal group.

    “Our investigation has shown that men of the ESN carried out the provocative ambush with sophisticated weapons. Nigeria is a democratic nation ruled by the constitution, which regulates behaviour and conducts of persons and groups.

    Read Also: Ndigbo committed to Nigeria’s unity, says Ohanaeze

    “It is a welcome development for complementary security outfits to be created, but such must pass the test of extant laws. While we support a regional security outfit owing to the current security failure of the government, we must do that within the ambit of the law so they are properly regulated to avoid criminal elements from hijacking it.

    “We call on Ndigbo both home and in the Diaspora to cooperate with security agencies to fish out these criminals that masquerade as security men. We also enjoin the military and security agencies involved in the operation to conduct themselves professionally, as we assure them of our support and cooperation in their task to rid the Southeast of anti-progressive elements.

    “We also urge governors of the region to consider establishing a regional security outfit like the Civilian JTF in Borno and Amotekun in the Southwest to compliment the efforts of security agencies.”

  • ‘Diri will complete abandoned road projects’

    ‘Diri will complete abandoned road projects’

     Simon Utebor, Yenagoa

     

    BAYELSA State Governor Douye Diri is committed to complete all road projects.

    Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Moses Teibowei stated this on Monday during an inspection tour of ongoing road projects.

    Teibowei, who went on the inspection with his Information counterpart, Ayibaina Duba, asserted that the government had mobilised contractors to many sites.

    Some of the sites where work has begun are the Tombia-Etegwe roundabout expansion, the failed portion of Opokuma road, the Yenagoa-Oporoma expressway, maintenance work at the Alamieyeseigha road, and other internal roads in Yenagoa, the state capital.

    Read Also: Diri gives scholarship at carol night

    Teibowei said the Tombia roundabout expansion was part of efforts to build a city worthy of emulation.

    He said: “We recently mobilised contractors to various sites and some of them have staretd work.

    “At Tombia roundabout which is being handled by the ministry, work is ongoing on the commissioners’ quarters. Same thing applies to the failed portion on the Opokuma road, and other places.”

    Duba said the Bayelsa Central Senatorial road is on course and would hit Aguobiri and advance to Angiama in Southern Ijaw. He said Governor Diri is committed to connectting the three senatorial roads to the city centre for the overall prosperity of all Bayelsans.

  • Communal crisis: Umahi orders aide’s re-arrest

    Communal crisis: Umahi orders aide’s re-arrest

     Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

     

    EBONYI State Governor David Umahi has ordered the re-arrest of one of his aides, Emmanuel Igwe, over the communal crisis in Effium Community, Ohaukwu Local Government Area.

    Igwe, who is the governor’s Special Assistant on Parks Development, was arrested on Sunday with over 20 other appointees from the area following the weekend crisis. They have been in detention since. But Igwe, who is not from the area, was later released.

    He showed up at the Community Primary School Effium, venue of an emergency security meeting convened by the governor.

    While the governor took presentations from stakeholders and residents of the community, he spotted Igwe and asked why he was out of detention. Igwe said the police released him because he was wrongly arrested.

    But the governor disagreed, arguing that the park where the crisis started was under his watch.

    Read Also: APC chief to PDP: leave Umahi alone

    After asking him some questions on the leadership tussle, and why he was unable to control the situation, the governor asked that he be re-arrested.

    Commissioner of Police Aliyu Garba immediately re-arrested Igwe and took him away in a police van.

    Umahi urged the Attorney-General, Cletus Ofoke, to get a court order to detain the appointees and political office holders arrested over the incident indefinitely. He said they can only be released on his order, adding that they will remain in detention until investigation is ended.

    He said:”I have asked telecommunications companies to give me transcripts of their phone calls for screening. If they are guilty they will be prosecuted. This is murder and arson, and anyone found complicit will be prosecuted and jailed,”

    The governor also suspended all projects his administration was undertaking in the community till further notice. Umahi also suspended all political appointees from the community till further notice.