The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southeast report

  • Community dismisses allegations of oil bunkering against SWAT, Sylva

    Community dismisses allegations of oil bunkering against SWAT, Sylva

    The people of Opu-Nembe in Nembe Local Government of Bayelsa State have written to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, exonerating the Special Weapon and Tactical Team (SWAT) and a former Minister of State Petroleum, Chief Timipre Sylva, of involvement in illegal oil bunkering.

    The people in a statement signed by all sectors of the community, represented by the Deputy Chairman, Chiefs’ Council, Chief Okolo Dede; Chairman, Elders Council, Indoma Igbalbo; Chairman, Special Elders Council, Igbogi Amalagha; Chairman, CDC, Mr. Konbonimi Awori; Youth President, Mr. Toinpre Sambo and Chairman, Opu-Nembe Council of Chiefs, Chief Yousuo Iruo, alleged that a petition against SWAT and Sylva written by some faceless individuals to the NSA was baseless.

    The representatives insisted that those who allegedly wrote the petition were ghost names fabricated by the sacked youth President of the community, Moses Ayerite.

    They said what the SWAT team had done since its arrival in the community on August 12, 2023 was to restore peace to the troubled community thrown into chaos by the sacked youth council and the council of chiefs in line with a script written by some politicians with the state government.

    According to them, the sustained agitation and deliberate lies against the SWAT team is geared towards forcing the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to remove the SWAT team from the community, which would pave the way for the sacked Youth Council and the Council of Chiefs to invade the community with militants.

    Noting that a similar unfounded petition was written against the Army, the representatives urged the NSA to probe the activities of the sacked Youth Council and their collaborators in the former council of chiefs in connection with illegal oil bunkering in the community.

    The statement said: “We are the representatives of the people of Opu- Nembe and we declare that the allegations against SWAT and Timipre Sylva are lies.

    “Sylva’s only crime is that he is from the community, and he contested the last governorship election against Governor Douye Diri. INEC has declared the results and he is at the tribunal to challenge the outcome.

    Read Also: ‘Oil thieves behind oil bunkering, $170m bribe scandal against Naval Chief’

    “The SWAT team since they came into the community has helped to restore law and order. Their presence has kept criminals away from the community.

    “What those sponsoring the unsubstantiated petitions against SWAT want to achieve is for the SWAT to leave the community so that they can invade the community and plunge it back into chaos with their reign of terror.

    “The people of Opu-Nembe are happy with the SWAT team for restoring peace to the community.”

    Recall that Opu-Nembe community has been enmeshed in lingering communal crisis that has left some indigenes dead and multi-million naira property destroyed.

  • Remembering Oyibo Chukwu: A call for justice, non-violence in Nigeria’s democracy

    Remembering Oyibo Chukwu: A call for justice, non-violence in Nigeria’s democracy

    The tragic and untimely death of the Labour Party senatorial candidate for Enugu East, Barr. Oyibo Chukwu on February 22, 2023, in Enugu, remains a somber reminder of the challenges facing Nigeria’s electoral process. The manner of their death -shot and burnt in their vehicles points to the gruesomeness and heart-wrenching violence that tormented and keeps tormenting the fate of democracy in this part of the world.

    The events leading up to Oyibo Chukwu’s demise cast a shadow over the presidential and National Assembly elections held on February 25, 2023. The brutal murder of Oyibo Chukwu, a former chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association in Enugu State, shook the foundations of political stability and underscored the need for greater security measures during electoral processes.

    Despite the tragedy, the resilience of democracy prevailed as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) rescheduled the senatorial election in Enugu East to March 18, 2023. In this by-election, Senator Kelvin Chukwu emerged victorious, stepping into the political arena to carry on the legacy of his slain brother.

    The journey of Senator Kelvin Chukwu from a grieving brother to a victorious senator is a testament to the strength of character and determination in the face of adversity. His landslide victory, with a total of 69,136 votes, against formidable opponents, including a former governor of Enugu State, Chimaroke Nnamani, signifies a triumph of hope over despair.

    Senator Kelvin Chukwu’s ascension to the Senate represents not only a personal victory but also a commitment to honor the memory of his brother, Oyibo Chukwu. As he takes on the mantle of leadership, Senator Chukwu pledges to serve his constituents with dedication and integrity, echoing the principles of public service upheld by his family for generations.

    In the wake of Oyibo Chukwu’s tragic death and the subsequent electoral victory of his brother, it is imperative to reflect on the importance of peaceful elections. Violence has no place in a democratic society, and the loss of lives due to political differences is a stain on the fabric of our nation.

    As Nigerians, we must collectively condemn acts of violence during elections and strive to create an environment where all citizens can exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation. The bloodshed witnessed on February 22, 2023, should serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders to prioritize peace and dialogue in the political process.

    In commemorating the life and legacy of Oyibo Chukwu, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May his memory inspire us to work towards a future where political differences are resolved through dialogue and compromise, rather than violence and bloodshed.

    Read Also: Enugu community places curse on killers of LP senatorial candidate Chukwu

    Lastly, we commend Senator Kelvin Chukwu for his remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to serving the people of Enugu East Senatorial Zone. In the face of adversity, he has emerged as a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience, embodying the values of leadership and public service. As he embarks on his journey in the Senate, let us rally behind him and support his efforts to bring positive change and progress to our communities.

    Iwuoha, Publisher Nigerian Eye Newspaper, is also 

    Author of Dialogue facilitator and

    Convener African Elders and Women Intercultural Dialogue. 

  • Ebonyi to recruit 2,600 forest guards

    Ebonyi to recruit 2,600 forest guards

    Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has approved the recruitment of 2,600 youths into the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS).

    The approval aims to enhance the capacity of security agencies in the state to fight banditry, kidnapping and others, especially those committed within the forests.

    Ebonyi State Commander of NHFSS, Igwe Larry, said this in a statement.

    He said the approval was a testimony of the confidence of the state government in the ability of the NHFSS to contribute effectively to the curbing of insecurity in the country by complementing the efforts of the Police, Army and other security agencies.

    Larry, on behalf of the Commander General of NHFSS, Dr. Wole Osatimehin and the Deputy Commander General on Technical Services, John Metchie, thanked Governor Nwifuru for the kind gesture.

    He pledged the commitment of the organisation to the security of lives and property of the residents of the state, especially in curbing forest- related crime.

    Read Also: EFCC quizzes ex-Gov Ahmed over alleged diversion of N10bn

    Larry announced vacancies for recruitment of young men and women from Ebonyi State into the NHFSS.

    The statement said: “The Nigeria Hunter and Forest Security Service, Ebonyi State Command, appreciates the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, for approving the recruitment of 2,600 Ebonyi youths into the services of Ebonyi State Command of NHFSS.”

    Larry said the approval is in tandem with the Ebonyi People’s Charter of Needs Administration in Ebonyi State.

    To qualify for recruitment, applicants must be 18 years and above and also have WASSCE, National Diploma, NCE, Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent.

  • Cholera outbreak: NDDC deploys medical intervention in Rivers

    Cholera outbreak: NDDC deploys medical intervention in Rivers

    • Nine feared dead

    Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has deployed drugs and medical personnel to mitigate cholera outbreak at Soku community in Akuku-Toru Local Government of Rivers State.

    No fewer than nine persons have reportedly died, following outbreak of the disease in the community.

    The intervention initiated by the state representative on the NDDC board, Tony Okocha, appears to be the first set of interventions the community has received so far since the outbreak of the disease.

    A team of medical professionals left Port Harcourt on Sunday afternoon for Soku.

    The cause of the outbreak may not be unconnected with drinking of unhygienic water.

    Okocha deployed alongside the medical team, drugs and cartons of potable water (bottled water) for residents.

    Read Also: Why we cannot sell cement below N7,000, by Dangote, Bua, Lafargea

    A statement by his media aide, Jacobs Happiness, said the gesture was in line with Okocha’s commitments to prioritise human capital development, among others, during his tenure.

    Okocha promised to ensure that no resident suffers from any ailment.

    NDDC, through Okocha, distributed relief materials worth hundreds millions of Naira to eight communities in Rivers State that were affected by flood last year.

  • IPOB urges EEDC to provide electricity or pull out of Southeast

    IPOB urges EEDC to provide electricity or pull out of Southeast

    The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), led by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has condemned Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) for its failure to supply electricity and its unjustifiable billing in the Southeast.

    In a statement by the Media and Publicity Secretary of IPOB, Emma Powerful, the group said if EEDC could not provide regular electricity or address its extortionate billing, it should leave the region.

    IPOB accused EEDC of increasing electricity bills without a corresponding improvement in service, thereby impoverishing Southeast people.

    The body urged Southeast governors to take advantage of the recent electricity reform and bring in more reliable electricity providers, to ensure the region receives quality, reliable and affordable electricity.

    Read Also: EFCC quizzes ex-Gov Ahmed over alleged diversion of N10bn

    “Southeast governors should be serious in providing good services and a conducive investment environment in our region, for our people to continue to invest and grow their businesses. Governors should take advantage of the recent electricity reform by the Federal Government and kick EEDC out of every state.”

    IPOB warned that if the governors fail to take action, they will mobilise the people to protest against the governors and EEDC.

    It stressed the need for the governors to prioritise the well-being of the people, particularly in the current challenging economic climate.

  • Oborevwori’s alleged plot to relocate varsity sparks protest

    Oborevwori’s alleged plot to relocate varsity sparks protest

    A pressure group, Ozoro Positive Voice (OPV), has warned against alleged plot to relocate Faculty of Social Sciences and Management from Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro, in Isoko North Local Government to Oreropke, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s hometown.

    The group accused the Chairman of the institution’s Governing Council, Mr. Godson Echegile, of plotting to move the Faculty of Social Sciences and Management to Orerokpe in Okpe Local Government.

    In a statement signed by the group, Dr. Enahoro Michael said relocating the Faculty of Social Sciences and Management was akin to rendering the specialised institution unviable.

    Enahoro, who traced the historical ties between Ozoro and Okpe people, claimed they were children of same parents, warning that a foreigner should not divide them.

    Read Also: Why we cannot sell cement below N7,000, by Dangote, Bua, Lafargea

    He said: “Historically, Ozoro and Orerokpe are brothers, as they are children of same parents. As such, an Ika man cannot come and divide us for his personal acrimony and benefits.”

    The group urged Governor Oborevwori to reject the move by the Echegile Godson-led governing council of the university.

    Efforts to reach Information Commissioner Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza proved abortive, as calls to his phone rang out. He also did not respond to text messages.

  • Ex-Abia Assembly deputy speaker defects  to APC

    Ex-Abia Assembly deputy speaker defects  to APC

    Former Deputy Speaker of Abia State House of Assembly, Ifeanyi Uchendu, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Uchendu, from Isiama Ward, who served in the 7th Abia Assembly and represented Ohafia South State Constituency, was the chairman, Media and Publicity and spokesman for the House of Assembly.

    The ex-deputy speaker on May 24, 2017 joined the PDP from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), where he was elected to represent Ohafia South in the 6th Abia House of Assembly.

    Speaking at the PDP secretariat, Finbarr’s road in Umuahia after rejoining from APGA, he said: “I consulted with my God, my people and members of my constituency before I took the decision to join PDP,” citing the crisis at APGA national leadership as reasons for his decision to go back to the PDP.

    In an exclusive phone interview with our correspondent, the lawmaker, stating why he joined the APC, said: “I became a member of Abia State House of Assembly on the platform of APGA in 2015.

    “I was doing well for our people, which is the most important thing. But there was need to reconnect my people to the mainstream of Abia politics that led to my joining the PDP. I joined the PDP while I had the mandate of my people.”

    Reacting to criticisms that he was ungrateful to abandon a party that helped him rise through political ranks in state, he said: “Yes, I became the deputy speaker of Abia State House of Assembly due to my performance, experience and other factors.

    “If I didn’t do well in my position, it would have been a curse to the PDP. But I performed well.

    Read Also: EFCC quizzes ex-Gov Ahmed over alleged diversion of N10bn

    “At that time, my people only listened to what PDP had to say because I was there and distinguished myself at the same time.

    “So it can be said that it was a mutual benefit. I promoted the party through my performance and activities.”

    On why he chose APC against the ruling Labour Party (LP) in the state and what his presence would bring to the new party, Uchendu said: “APC is a national party, the ruling party in the country.

    “If you must know, I contested election to represent my people at the Federal House.

    “I was already yearning to push towards national politics after contributing my quota at the state level. It’s time to move to national politics.

    “It will also help others to have an opportunity to grow politically at the grassroots before getting to our level.”

  • PDP slates Feb. 22 for Edo  primaries

    PDP slates Feb. 22 for Edo  primaries

    Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has slated February 22 for the conduct of its Edo governorship primaries.

    The PDP National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Debo Ologunagba, said this in a statement yesterday in Abuja.

    He said the date was approved by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, adding that the committee also approved the delegates’ list for the primaries.

    Read Also: Why we cannot sell cement below N7,000, by Dangote, Bua, Lafargea

    He said the primaries would be held at the Lawn Tennis Court of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin.

    He advised delegates, aspirants, leaders and party stakeholders to note the official date and venue and be guided accordingly.

  • Enugu to raise IGR to N30b

    Enugu to raise IGR to N30b

    • From Janefrances Chibuzor

    Enugu State Ministry of Culture and Tourism has pledged to key into the state’s strategic plan of growing the  Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from N4.4billion to N30billion annually.

    Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dame Ugochi Madueke, who made the pledge, said the ministry would soon begin identification of over one hundred  tourists’ sites to serve as a  vital  tool towards making Enugu State  the best  destination for tourists.

    She said such development would enable the ministry to tackle challenges confronting the sites, especially those across hinterland.

    Read Also: EFCC quizzes ex-Gov Ahmed over alleged diversion of N10bn

    Speaking with reporters at the state secretariat in Enugu, Madueke said introduction of a unified e-ticketing scheme within tourism facilities would lead to economic growth, adding that e-ticketing would maximally reduce corrupt practices around the environment.

  • Communities seek protection of ex-agitators against pirates

    Communities seek protection of ex-agitators against pirates

    Five coastal local governments in Akwa Ibom State are seeking protection of ex-agitators against pirates and other criminals.

    The councils are Oron, Udung Uko, Mbo, Okobo and Urue-Offong Oruko.

    President-General of Oro Union, Sir Essang Nsa Bassey, at a news conference decried the menace of pirates in Oro Nation.

    He appealed to the state and federal governments to allow ex-militants support government security agencies in combating piracy in Oro Nation.

    Bassey said: “Just like the Federal Government engaged Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, the chief executive officer (CEO) of Tantita Firm, to police waterways of Niger Delta against pipeline vandals and oil thieves on high seas, the same should be done in Akwa Ibom State.

    “I recall that ex-militants from the state, particularly the ones from Oron Federal Constituency, approached me and suggested that they should be allowed to combat pirates on our waters.

    “I think the state government can use them to protect our maritime corridor from these criminals, who have made life unbearable for us.

    Read Also: Why we cannot sell cement below N7,000, by Dangote, Bua, Lafargea

    “If this is not done, the blue economy potential will remain a mirage. Therefore, we are appealing to the federal and state governments to think towards this.”

    He also condemned marginalisation of the Oro by successive administrations.

    “Successive administrations in the state have robbed Oro people of development over the years in terms of strategic infrastructure and key projects, especially the major Uyo- Nsit Atai road traversing Oro.”

    Such politics of exclusion, he noted, could be seen in failure of both the state and federal government to implement the Ibaka Deep Seaport project, whose original status and nomenclature had been altered to become Ibom Deep Seaport.