The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Ifeanyi Okowa

  • Delta APC knocks Okowa over N13bn contract

    The Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has knocked Governor Ifeanyi Okowa over a N13.6 billion contract for the construction of new secretariat building for the state’s civil servants.

    At a media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, a governorship aspirant of the APC in Delta State, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, described the contract as inappropriate, saying the state government should, rather focus on payment of salaries and pensions arrears to civil servants in the states.

    “The Delta state government that has not been able to pay salaries, pay pensioners, construct any single road in the state, suddenly became interested in building secretariat that the civil servants do not need, for the sole purpose of enriching the person of the governor”.

    Ojougboh alleged that the indigenous firm, North China Construction Nigeria Limited, which was awarded the contract has not undertaken any construction work in the country

    According to him, the company, which was incorporated in 2014 with a share capital of only N20 million, should have no business with a contract worth N13. 6 billion.

    He blamed a new generation bank for granting the company loans running into billions of Naira, elegant that the entire contract was shrouded in secrecy.

    Ojougboh said, “Our submission is that the drawings and bills of quantity for the contract should be handed over to an independent professional team of quantity surveyors for vetting and all the companies that participated in the bidding should be made known with their individual profiles.

    “While the contract schedule was dated December, 2016, we discovered that since the agreement was signed and till date, disbursements of the contract money has continued unabated without commensurate work on ground. Not even five percent of the contract has been done.

    “The annoying part is that from start to completion of this project, the total repayable is N21 billion of taxpayers’ money of a contract of N13.6 billion. This is wicked, irresponsible and act of war against the people of Delta State.

    “Our hearts go to the civil servants, who have not received salaries in the past months and who have worked hard to promote the state. 95 percent of them are opposed to this contract, even the commissioners of the state. We learnt that more than 90 percent of them opposed the contract, which they believed would mortgage the future of the state.

    “The future of Delta people is what we are discussing here, we will not fold our arms and see one person destroying our state. Enough of this waste and pilfering by a man, who is supposed to show concern for the welfare of our state”.

     

  • Okowa vows to ensure peace in Delta

    Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has said that his administration would do everything possible to ensure that peace returns to the state.

    Okowa gave this assurance on Friday at a public lecture/book presentation held in honour of his deputy, Kingsley Otuaro in Warri.

    The book with the theme: Governance, Security and Peace Building in Niger Delta, was written by the Society for Peace Studies and Practice, Nigeria, South South Zone to mark the 50th  birthday of Otuaro.

    Okowa said that people must realise that whatsoever damage done to the facilities in the state was destruction done to the people of the state.

    “I think there is still a lot to be done in Delta, even when we are enjoying so much peace at the moment.

    “People must continue to realise that whatever we do to destroy any of the facilities we have in Delta is actually a destruction done to ourselves,” he said.

    Okowa said that governors alone could not build peace, noting that peace building effort had to involve everybody.

    “Governors alone cannot build peace, it is a participatory thing; all the people of Delta have to be involved so that the partnership will be strong.

    “We have peace building structures, those of us in government must provide that partnership because without that we cannot achieve peace,” he said.

    The governor lauded the Society for Peace Studies and Practice, Nigeria, South South Zone for the great work.

    He directed that copies of the book be given to the 60 traditional rulers in the state as well as the President-Generals of the communities in Delta.

    Okowa thanked God for giving Otuaro the grace to celebrate 50 years and wished him more successful years.

    Earlier, Prof. Isaac Albert, the Director, Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ibadan in his lecture, stressed the need for Delta to build a consensus.

    “There is the need for us to know the kind of Delta we want; if we destroy our state, who will come from other state to build it for us.

    “Among the Niger Delta governors, there is also the need to build a consensus to tackle the main problems in the region,” he said.

    The 383 page book was reviewed by Prof. Chris Ogbogbo, the President, Historical Society of Nigeria, University of Ibadan.

    In his remark, Utuaro thanked God and the organisers for the honor accorded him.

    “I thank God for the gift of life and mercy; I am overwhelmed and glad to see this great day; being 50 is heartwarming and exciting,” he said.

    In attendance were the, immediate past governor of Delta, Emmanuel Uduaghan, Delta lawmakers at both the state and national assemblies, government functionaries, traditional rulers among others.

    NAN

  • Okowa urges judges to avoid granting frivolous injunction

     … Swears-In Five New Judges

     

     

    Delta Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has urged the judiciary to desist from granting frivolous injunctions and frequent adjournment of cases.

    He made the call yesterday during the swearing-in ceremony of Mrs. Celestina Dafe-Idise, Egwu Joe Esq, Dr. Anthony Ezonfade Okorodas, Blessing Oghale Ideh (Mrs.), and Edun Ajueyitsi Joshua as justices of the Delta State Judiciary.

    His words, “one of the things you (Judges) must guard against is the frivolous use of injunctions and the frequent adjournments of cases, which not only leads to delay and congested courts but has also contributed to negative perception of the Judiciary in the court of public opinion.”

    Okowa said such bottlenecks are inimical to the development of the judicial system adding that “Judges have an obligation to see to it that justice is not only served but, also seen to be served, so that the judiciary does not lose the confidence of the public from which it ultimately derives its authority,”

    Okowa said that “as Judges, fairness, equity and justice must be your watchword at all times, you must maintain a high level of focus, discipline and personal probity.”

    He congratulated the judicial officers on their appointment ,adding that “as you begin your journey as privileged members of the Bench, I expect you to continue in the same spirit of hard work, excellence and forthrightness that earned you this appointment, this is not the time for you to rest on your oars, your job as judges will further challenge your intellect, demand greater resourcefulness, task your creativity, stretch your patience, encroach on your time and test your value system.”

    The Governor disclosed that the 5 judges were “screened, selected and appointed in line with laid down procedures for such appointments as enshrined in Section 271, sub section (2) of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and by virtue of this constitutional provision, a judge shall be appointed by the Governor of a state on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council; the NJC considered ad deliberated on the nominations and, in their wisdom, considered and approved the persons sworn-in as judges.”

     

     

  • Delta approves full implementation of central tax billing

    Delta approves full implementation of central tax billing

    Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta has approved full implementation of the Central Ministries, Department and Agencies ( MDA ) Billing System to address the challenge of multiple demand notices.

    A statement by Chief David Edevbie, the State Commissioner for Finance, disclosed this on Thursday in Asaba.

    According to Edevbie, the approval for the central billing system is with effect from 2018 fiscal year.

    “The implementation is in response to public complaints about the existence of a plethora of demand notices from legal and illegal sources as well as multiplicity of state taxes, rates, fees and charges.

    “The process includes, but not limited to the establishment of a robust ICT database of all revenue and tax payers on a platform accessible by all relevant stakeholders”.

    Read Also: ‘We’re focusing on integration of Niger Delta’

    The commissioner said that the process, which would involve electronic demand notices, would capture all types of state taxes, rates, fines fees and charges as well as introduce the consolidated assessment system of all annual rates and charges by the MDAs.

    He said that the system would also enhance the ease of doing business and payment by members of the public.

    “Consequently, all revenue collecting MDAs are hereby requested to participate in the project and cease forthwith the issuance of all demand notices to existing and potential tax payers in the state.

    “Henceforth, all such tax notices shall now be centrally issued and signed by the Executive Chairman, Delta State Board of Internal Revenue or the State Commissioner for Finance,” Edevbie said.

    The commissioner urged the general public to conform with the order and should not to honour any demand notice without the appropriate signatories.

    NAN

  • Okowa congratulates OBJ on 81st Birthday

    Okowa congratulates OBJ on 81st Birthday

    Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa has congratulated ex-President of Nigeria, Dr. Olusegun Obasanjo on the occasion of his 81st birthday, describing him as a true nationalist.

    Okowa in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Charles Aniagwu, eulogized the octogenarian for his patriotic and unrelenting service to the nation, calling him an “outstanding patriot, a committed leader and a man of courage, whose gargantuan contributions towards the development, stability and growth of the country is legendary.”

    He said: “On the occasion of your 81st birthday anniversary today Monday 5th of March, 2018, I write to heartily rejoice with you and your family on behalf of the Government and people of Delta State.

    “In the past 81 years of a life of outstanding accomplishments and great personal fulfillment, you have not only served our nation at the highest levels with an uncommon sense of patriotism and unwavering dedication, you have also ensured peace and unity of our nation when you fought in the war front to keep Nigeria one.”

    Read Also: Okowa: Yet another feather to his cap

    “Till date you have continued to give yourself in the service of our fatherland through your nationalistic ideals”, the Governor added.

    The Governor noted that the legacies of the former Nigerian leader at various times in key infrastructures, economic reforms, banking consolidation, pension reforms as well as revitalization of the telecoms industry through the introduction of the Global System for Mobile Telecommunications, GSM were the hallmarks of his administration.

    Continuing, he said; “I join your family, friends and well-wishers to thank Almighty God for your life and to pray that He continues to bless you with robust health and imbue you with His continued guidance, protection, and enduring provision.

    He wished Chief Obasanjo a very well deserved 81st birthday.

     

  • PDP pressure group endorse Okowa for Second Term

    PDP pressure group endorse Okowa for Second Term

     

    A pressure group in the Delta PDP, Delta Mandate have endorsed the candidature of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as its sole candidate  in 2019  Delta governorship election.

    The Delta Mandate comprises PDP faithful from the three senatorial districts.

    Mr. Solomon Funkekeme who spoke in Warri said Governor Okowa has been adopted and endorsed as the sole candidate in view of his performance and achievements in infrastructural development, youth empowerment, wealth creation, his capacity in carrying all along, faithfulness to the PDP manifesto, and adherence to the zoning formula.

    Arthur Akpowowo stated that in accordance with the zoning formula existing in the state, PDP is morally bond to adhere to its zoning formula and the actualization of Okowa as Governor for second term in 2019.

    The National President of the group, Mr. Isaac Anwuzia, who described the association as a strong voice in the political equation of the state, stated that Governor Okowa has been endorsed for second term by the group.

    Read Also: Delta 2019: Hurdles before Okowa

    His words, “Without fear of contradiction, I wish to state that after a critical but objective analysis of the performance of our able Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, we make bold to say that he be given a second chance to enable him perfect and bring to completion his vision and development blueprint as encapsulated in the SMART agenda of the PDP led administration”.

    Its Delta Central Coordinator, Akpowowo said the rally was to sensitize all Deltans that the Governor has performed creditably well and should be supported for re-election come 2019.

    He said, “We are proud of his immense feats and ability to carry every part of the state along in infrastructural development despite the downturn “.

    He urged everyone present at the rally to carry out massive sensitization in their respective Local Government Areas and communities of the Governor’s achievements by campaigning and canvassing adequately to make his return in 2019 as Governor a smooth ride.

    The group’s Delta North Coordinator, Moses Iduh, urged all to take the message from door to door and house to house for Governor Okowa 2019 saying that there is no other Governor for 2019 in Delta State than Governor Ifeanyi  Okowa.

    Chairman, PDP Delta South Senatorial District, Emmanuel Amgbaduba, assured that Delta South people are very faithful and committed to their words, adding that they will do their best to deliver Okowa as Governor in 2019 election.

    The State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Patrick Ukah, advised all adults living in the state who do not have their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) to go to the nearest Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office and register to be qualified to vote for Governor Okowa in 2019.

  • Delta Govt. distributed fingerlings, feeds to 100 fish farmers

    Delta Govt. distributed fingerlings, feeds to 100 fish farmers

    The Delta Government has supplied 100 fish farmers with fingerlings, feeds and cash as well as distributed tractors to 64 cooperative societies to boost agriculture in the state.

    Mr Ovie Ossai, the Political Assistant on Special Duties (Media) to Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa, disclosed this to newsmen in Asaba on Wednesday.

    Ossai said government also supplied 106 cooperatives Mellon Sheller while 18 other societies received outboard engines and fishing gears support packages to boost production.

    “The state government also distributed improved variety of cassava cuttings, fertilisers, and cash to 475 cassava farmers.

    “Also, 100 poultry farmers were supported with 200-day-old chicks each, feeds and cash to enhance production.

    Read Also:  Delta 2019: Hurdles before Okowa

    “Fifty poultry farmers got 200 layers each, feeds and cash while 50 piggery farmers received 10 growers, feeds and cash as well.

    “The state government also distributed tomatoes seedlings, agrochemicals and cash to 40 farmers,’’ Ossai said.

    The governor’s aide said the state government was committed to transforming agriculture in the state.

    He remarked that the Daily Independent newspaper’s “Man of the Year, 2017’’ award to Okowa was a product of good governance in Delta.

    Ossai said that the state government had completed numerous projects in the health, education and agriculture sectors while many were ongoing.

    NAN

  • Okowa reshuffles Cabinet, drops two Commissioners

    Okowa reshuffles Cabinet, drops two Commissioners

    Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Thursday, made a minor cabinet reshuffle relieving two commissioners of their portfolios while reassigning four others.

    The two commissioners who were dropped include Dr. Nicholas Azinge [Health], and Dan Okenyi [Culture & Tourism], while those reassigned are Mr. Asupa Forteta, formerly of the Directorate of Youths Development, now heads the Urban Renewal Directorate; while Karo Ilolo, formerly of Directorate of Urban Renewal Directorate now takes charge of the Youths Development Directorate.

    Others are Hon. Bright Edejewhro, formerly of Local Government Affairs Directorate now heads Ministry Of Science and Technology and Hon Joyce Overah, of the Ministry of The Science and Technology now moves to Local Government Affairs Directorate.

    The statement said the decision to reshuffle the cabinet is in line with the state government’s desire to re-energise the machinery of government and bring new impetus into service delivery.

    Read Also:  Okowa  swears in council chairmen, harps on punctuality

    Governor Okowa in a statement signed by the Secretary to State Government, Hon. Ovie Agas thanked the two commissioners relieved of their portfolios for their commitment and contributions to the SMART Agenda and wishes them success in their future endeavours.

    It will be recalled that the Mr. Dan Okenyi who was dropped as Commissioner of Culture & Tourism was also removed from the Ministry of Lands and Survey last year following minor cabinet reshuffle.

    According to the statement the cabinet reshuffle takes effect from February 8, 2018.

    In a swift reaction, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has forwarded a nominee, Dr. Mordi Ononye, for appointment as commissioner and member of the State Executive Council to the Delta State House of Assembly.

    The letter from the Governor conveying the name of the nominee was read at plenary, by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

    The governor in the letter sought for the screening and confirmation of the nominee by the house.

    It is unclear if the name of the nominee forwarded to the State’s legislature would be considered for  any of the vacant portfolios.

     

  • Ekwueme buried in Anambra

    Ekwueme buried in Anambra

    Anambra State stood still on Friday as Alex Ekwueme, Nigeria’s former Vice President was laid to rest in Oko, his home town.

    The burial had in attendance the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, as well as Goodluck Jonathan, former President of Nigeria. Top government officials, close friends and family members gathered to pay their lasts respect to the 85-year-old elder statesmen who died in November 2017.

    Some of those present to witness the final moments were Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Patience.

    Read Also: FG renames Varsity after Ekwueme

    Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano, his colleague, Rochas Okorocha, Governor of Imo State, as well as Akinwunmi Ambode, Okezie Ikpeazu, Ifeanyi Okowa of Lagos, Abia and Delta State respectively, were also in attendance.

    Osinbajo, in his tribute to the former Vice President, described him as a true Nigerian icon, worthy of celebrating.

    He said Ekwueme was being immortalised for his selfless service, integrity and contributions to national development.

  • Lassa fever: Delta donates protective kits to FMC Asaba

    Lassa fever: Delta donates protective kits to FMC Asaba

    The Delta Government has donated personal protective medical equipment to the Federal Medical Centre ( FMC ), Asaba, as part of efforts to curtail the scourge of Lassa fever in the state.

    The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Nicholas Azinge, presented the items to the Chief Medical Director of the centre, Dr Victor Osiatuma, on behalf of the state government on Thursday in Asaba.

    He stated that the kits would enable the medical personnel in the hospital to effectively fight the disease which recently re-emerged in the state.

    The commissioner revealed that so far two confirmed cases had been recorded in the state and the victims receiving medical attention at the facility.

    He said the first case of the disease brought to the FMC was a 43-year-old man resident in the state who was successfully treated and later referred to the Irrua Specialist Hospital in Edo.

    Azinge further stated that family members of the man and the ambulance driver who conveyed him to the hospital are being closely monitored while other contact tracing are on-going.

    He assured residents that relevant authorities are on top of the situation, assuring that there is no cause for alarm as the state had effectively handled the disease the last time it emerged.

    According to the commissioner, all primary health care centres in the state have been activated and sensitised on how to respond to any suspected case of the disease.

    He therefore advised the residents to report suspected cases of malaria and typhoid that are not responding to treatment to the nearest medical facility as early report of cases would help save lives.

    Azinge disclosed that he was in contact with his counterpart in Anambra regarding the death of the second victim brought into Asaba.

    He said the corpse would be handed over to his Anambra colleague to ensure proper burial of the corpse in order not to expose more persons to the disease.

    Receiving the items, Osiatuma expressed gratitude to Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa for the gesture and assured of the effective use of the items.

    The protective items included 250 pieces of disposable coat/suit, 500 pieces of Elbow Length Gloves, 50 packets of surgical hand gloves and 50 sets protective boots, among others.
    On the death of the second victim of the disease in the hospital, Osiatuma revealed that the woman was brought in from Anambra last Sunday, but unfortunately died on the next day.

    He said the hospital is strictly following the protocol of handling the corpse in order not to spread the disease as workers were following laid down procedure in handling such cases.

    Osiatuma assured residents of the state on the ability of the hospital to handle the disease, saying with the donated items and training given to their personnel the disease would be effectively curbed.

    NAN