Vice Admiral Ibas appoints, Prof. Worika  as Secretary to Rivers State Government

The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas CFR, has approved the appointment of Professor Ibibia Lucky Worika as the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG).

Ibas said the appointment, which takes immediate effect, follows a rigorous selection process that considered Professor Worika’s extensive experience in academia, international legal practice, and high-level policy advisory roles.

According to the him, the decision aligns with the broader goal of ensuring peace, stability, and security in Rivers State, in line with the mandate of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu .

Lucky Worike is a Professor of Comparative Petroleum and International Environmental Law and Policy.

Director, Centre for Advanced Law Research, Rivers State University & Professor of Law, Department of Public Law, Faculty of Law, Rivers State University.Ph.D (Dundee, UK); LL.M (Unilag); B.L. (NLS); LL.B (Hons) (Unilag)MNALT; MNBA; MIBA; MCESG, CEL, IUCN; MALSN; CMC; FIMC-Nigeria; MNIArb.

Prof. Worika is an outstanding international lawyer, who demonstrates the highest standards of efficiency, competence and integrity, while striving to achieve results, meeting or exceeding expectations through genuine interest and understanding of institutional/organizational objectives and dedicated to its principles and values.

Professor Worika holds a Ph.D. in Comparative Petroleum law and International Environmental Law and Policy from the University of Dundee in Scotland, UK under a Commonwealth Academic Staff Scholarship administered by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in London between 1995 and 1999.

He was a post-doctoral researcher at the Centre for Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Law and Policy, at the University of Dundee , Scotland, UK between 1999 and 2000. He holds an LL.M. and LL.B (Hons) degrees from the University of Lagos in 1989 and 1986 respectively; and, was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1987. He is widely published and travelled.

He has at various times consulted for Fichtner Consulting Gmbh of Germany, Forster in Nigeria, Oxford Policy Management (OPM) of the UK, United Nations Institute for Advanced Legal Studies (UNU-IALS) in Japan, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), MacArthur Foundation, Niger Delta Human and Environmental Rights Organization (ND-HERO), Rivers State Government of Nigeria, Ministry of Petroleum Resources of Nigeria and the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) in Congo Brazaville, amongst others.

Prof. Worika is a member of various professional associations world-wide, including the International Bar Association (IBA), Climate and Energy Specialist Group (CESG) of the Commission on Environmental Law (CEL), International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and the Admiralty Law Society of Nigeria (ALSN) to mention a few.

His areas of Specialisation are Comparative Petroleum & International Environmental Law and Policy.

Prof. Worika is widely published in both national and international peer-reviewed journals.

His recent research interest was on the Policies, Laws and Institutional Framework for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation in Nigeria; and, he has, amongst others, delivered a paper as well as power point presentation to the 45th Senior Executive Course at the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos on Climate Change Policy, Law and Institutional Framework.

He is expected to bring in his wealth of experience to the emergency rule in Rivers State.

**Doles out millions of naira for Infrastructural upgrade of Mosques in Warri and Environs

**Ereyitomi’s gesture, first of its kind to us in Warri, Says Spokesman of Muslim Community

The Member House of Representatives, representing Warri Federal Constituency in Delta State, Hon. Chief Dr.Thomas Ereyitomi, on Saturday March 22 hosted Arewa Muslims and other Islamic faithfuls in his constituency to an Iftar dinner in Warri, the commercial hub of the state.

The Islamic faithfuls, including Imams, women and youths, were drawn from the various mosques in Warri Federal Constituency, particularly those in Warri and neighbouring Effurun.

Members of the political class in Warri South, Warri South West and Warri North LGAs, which made up the Warri Federal Constituency, were present at the gathering.

Seated to assist Chief Ereyitomi to host the Muslim Community were business mogul, Evangelist Tony Aderojo, alias TONCO, Special Adviser to Delta State Governor on Community Development, Amb Dr. Toyin Agbolayah, Chairman, Warri South LGA, Hon. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, his Vice, Mr. Kingsley Edafiadjebre and his Warri South West LGA counterpart, Mrs. Christy Omamofe.

Also, former Chairman of Warri North LGA, Ambassador Adughe Okorodudu, former Vice-Chairman, Warri South West LGA and Senior Special Assistant to Delta State Governor on Political Affairs, Mr. Bleson Omadoye, Secretary, Warri South LGA, Mr Emma Nunu, PDP’s Chairman, Warri South, Mr. Richard Pessu, PDP’s Publicity Secretary in Warri South LGA, Mr. Emiko Oghomienor and PDP’s Woman Leader, Warri South West LGA, Ms. Rose Tulu, among other notable personalities, were guests of the federal lawmaker at the Iftar dinner.

In his welcome address, Ereyitomi, urged Muslims to continue to dedicate their time for prayers to Delta State in particular and Nigeria in general, adding that the Ramadan period offers a moment for every Nigerian to reflect and pray for the country.

Chief Ereyitomi, according to excerpts of his speech revealed by his Special Assistant in charge of New Media, Mr. Great Kpenosen, reflected on the significance of Ramadan, which coincides with the Lenten season and called for a deep introspection and reaffirmation of commitment to Nigeria’s unity.

Dr. Ereyitomi, is also the Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum Resources, Training Funds, appreciated the Arewa and other Muslim adherents for living in harmony and concord with their hosts and urged them to sustain the tempo.

“Let us try to know that we are a community of one people. Let us try to know that the North, South and West are just for administrative convenience. Let us be united for if we are segregated, we are not helping ourselves and the government at all levels.”

“This sacred month (Ramadan) of reflection and renewal reminds us to choose stability over strife, collaboration over conflict and dialogue over discord,” Ereyitomi further implored his guests.

Highlight of the ceremony was a special prayer session for Chief Ereyitomi, his family and constituents by the elated Muslim faithfuls.

They were later treated to a sumptuous Iftar dinner ahead of presentation of Ramadan gifts and cheques for the cash donations to the various mosques in Warri and its neighbourhood.

No fewer than 15 mosques in Warri and Effurun received a cash donation of N1m each from Ereyitomi in aid of Infrastructural upgrade, amidst ecomiums poured on the lawmaker by jubilant recipients.

The appreciative recipients described the gesture variously as “unprecedented and uncommon.”

In his vote of thanks, the spokesman to the Muslim faithfuls, Mallam Ahmed Abdul-Kadiri Shuru, prayed and thanked Ereyitomi for his usual sense of benevolence to the Muslim community in Warri and its environs.

Shuru particularly thanked him for the huge Ramadan gifts and donations he made to them, ìncluding the women, youths and others whom they represented in the visit.

He assured Ereyitomi of their unwavering support and solidarity, now and in the future.

“Permit me to say the truth. We have had some individuals representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Abuja, since the advent of the ongoing political dispensation in 1999
to date. No one has shown such a kind gesture as you, Rt. Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi. We thank you for always showing respect and concern for the Muslim community in your constituency, especially the Arewa nucleus of the Islamic faith.”

“No Representative of Warri Federal Constituency has ever invited the Muslim faithfuls to his house to celebrate a Muslim festival. In fact, your own is quite unique because you invited us at a time that every Nigerian needed help. Thank you sir”, Shuru added.

The cheques were presented to beneficiaries by Ereyitomi and his guests.

No matter what society does man and man can never be recognised as couple by God- PST. Faseru

By: Tino Kevwe

The Pastor in Charge of Kingsway International Christian Centre, KICC in Lagos, Nigeria, Pastor Femi Faseru says no matter what the society does man and man can never be recognised as husband and wife by God.

PST. Faseru in his sermon titled. Attributes of a Mother Part 1, took his text from Romans 12

According to the Man of God no man can submit himself like a mother because no man can carry a child like a woman and give birth like a woman as God never destined men to do so.

He stressed that such marriage between man and man is illegal in heaven and not known by God in all aspects.

The KICC Pastor also used the preaching to commend women for their resilience and love in building homes for better society.

Kogi Central: Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Rejects Purported Apology, Insists on Her Position

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has denied purported reports suggesting that she has apologized to the Nigerian Senate over the controversy that led to her suspension.

In a statement on Monday, March 24, 2025, the lawmaker described the claims as “false and misleading,” reaffirming her stance on the issue that resulted in her six-month suspension.

“The purported reports circulating that I have apologized to the Senate and retracted my position are completely untrue. I stand firmly by my words and actions, and I have not issued any apology to the Senate or anyone regarding this matter,” Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.

“It is unfortunate that some individuals are peddling falsehoods in an attempt to distort the truth and mislead the public.”

The senator, who was suspended following a heated exchange with Senate leadership, maintained that she remains committed to standing by her principles and defending the rights of her constituents. She accused unnamed individuals of attempting to manipulate public perception through fabricated statements.

“I urge the public to disregard these rumours and publications as they do not represent my position. My commitment remains to truth, justice, and the people I represent,” she said.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan also expressed concerns over what she described as an orchestrated campaign to silence her voice in the National Assembly.

“This is not just about me; it is about the integrity of our democracy. I will not be intimidated or forced into submission through false narratives,” she added.

She called on her constituents and Nigerians to remain vigilant against misinformation, emphasizing that any official statement from her would come directly from her verified channels

“I appreciate the support and solidarity of my people. Rest assured, I will continue to fight for what is right and just,” she declared.

Dr. Ekpemupolo, Dangote Among 100 Brand Personalities For 2025 Peace Legend Award

The founder of PEACE LEGENDS AWARDS INTERNATIONAL, Mr Jesse Osero Amiri together with a body of distinguished researchers, committed to Peace in Nigeria and Africa at large will on 27th April, 2025 be celebrating the 14th edition of 100 brands and personalities who are transforming Nigeria and Africa at large

This edition will features award recognition of personalities who have distinguished themselves in different fields such as politics, business, science, arts, activism and sports.

Among those personalities to be honoured are High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo will be honoured with AFRICA LEGEND OF PEACE 2025 while a business mogul, Alhaji ALIKO DANGOTE is to receive life time ACHIEVEMENT AWARD.

Amiri in a press statement said; “Africa is the source of life, a continent rich in diversity, culture people and natural resources. It is a continent that has contributed blood, sweat and resources for the development of the world. As the cradle of civilization it supplies the rest of the world with its vast natural resources needed for industrialization.”

He noted that Africa is a continent of great minds-leaders, entrepreneurs, entertainers, activists and visionaries who have shaped history and continue to shape the future pointing out that the struggle for independence to technological innovations and economic transformation were testament to these great personalities who have left indelible marks in the continent.

According to him, Nigeria as Africa’s giant has produced some of the most influential figures in governance, business and culture and such personalities who have shaped the continent in one discipline or the other.

“Africa has produced notable names like Nelson Mandela, an Anti -apartheid revolutionary, former President and global icon of peace and reconciliation. Others are Kwame Nkrumah, a leading figure in Ghana’s independence and the African unity movement, Obafemi Awolowo, advocate of free education and one of Nigeria’s foremost thinkers, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria’s first President and key Nationalist leader. We must also mention Julius Nyerere, father of Tanzanian Independence, Paul Kagame who led Rwanda’s transformation after the 1994 genocide and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female head of state and symbol of female empowerment.”

The 14th edition of Peace Legend Award, according Amiri is not about Africa’s pioneering leaders but about the current leaders who have excelled in their different areas of human endeavors saying that the selection process has been very transparent, tasking but thorough, ensuring that the very best are selected.

This award ceremony, Amiri pointed promises to be very exciting as it will bring together the crème de la crème of Africa in a setting that is not only unique but also very captivating.

He said the grand ceremony will be holding at the prestigious TRANSCORP HILTON hotel, Abuja, Nigeria, beginning by 6pm and will be hosted by ace comedian, Gordon’s D Beliconi.

**Urges Muslims to Pray for Peace, Progress across Warri Federal constituency, Delta, Nigeria

By: Celestine Ukah 

The member Representing Warri Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives Honourable Chief Dr. Ereyitomi has hosted Islamic faithfuls across Warri Federal Constituency in Warri as they observed the Ramadan breaking of fast also known as Iftar in the Arabic language.

Chief Ereyitomi in line with the Ramadan prayers and fasting in the Holy Month Saturday March 22, appreciated Muslins residing in Warri and and its environs and as part of his goodwill also donated Eleven Million Naira, one Million Naira each to the Eleven Imams representing the Eleven Mosques in Warri in order to support them.

Chief Ereyitomi during the iftar provided food, drinks and water for his guests in order for them to break their fasting as they ate, drank and merry together as one big family irrespective of their religious background.

The Warri Federal Lawmaker encouraged muslims to use the opportunity abound in the holy month of Ramadan to seek the face of Almighty Allah for guidance, protection, peace, progress and continuity of super representation in Warri Federal constituency, Delta State and good governance in Nigeria.

Speaking on behalf of other Imams and Islamic clerics at the event the Chief Imam of Warri Central Mosque, Alhaji Abdul-Rasheed Ajisafe, commended Warri Rep, Chief. Ereyitomi for the special recognition and prayed Almighty Allah to grant him his heart desires and wisdom to continue to pilot the affairs of Warri Federal constituency.

The event attracted the Chairman of Warri South Local Government Area, Hon. Weyinmi Isaac Agbateyiniro, his Vice Hon. Kingsley Edafiajebre, Special Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Community Development and a seasoned political strategist, Amb.Dr. Toyin Agbolaya JP, Secretary to Warri South Local Government Council. Mr Emmanuel Nunu, Warri South PDP Chairman, Hon. Richard Pessu, Warri South-West Local Government Council Vice Chairman, Former Warri North Local Government Council Chairman, Hon Aduge Okorodudu, Mr. Shola Adebayor, Hon. Oghomienor Emiko. Hon. Blessing Omadoye and Evangelist Tony Aderejor (Tonco).

Others present include Dr. Hope George and PDP women leaders across Warri Federal constituency.

*Reject Under Tree Offices

**Urge FG To Return Theatre Workers Back To Office

*””Call For Good Working Environment

*”**Speak On Discrepancies In Renovation Cost

The Joint Congress of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU) and the Amalgamated Union Public Corporations, Civil Service, Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE) on Thursday expressed deep concerns over the troubling state of affairs at the National Theatre Complex.

‘’At the inception of the renovation of the National Theatre, the then Honourable Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, assured all stakeholders, including organized labour that the renovation would be completed within eighteen months and that no single job would be lost as a result of the process. These assurances were meant to inspire confidence, safeguard institutional integrity and protect workers’ rights during the transformational phase of this iconic national asset. However, five years after the commencement of the said renovation project, we regret to inform you that these promises have remained largely unfulfilled and the realities on the ground are now completely at variance with the assurance given’’

They also condemned the denial of access to designated offices within the National Theatre complex.

‘’This continued restriction has not only affected administrative productivity but has also subjected our members to psychological discomfort, professional displacement and operational stagnation. The absence of access to official workspaces is in direct contradiction to earlier commitments and undermines the fundamental principles of fairness and workplace inclusion’’

At a world press conference in Lagos, the Labour Unions lamented the sidelining of the management of the National Theatre, particularly the General Manager/Chief Executive Officer.

‘’The General Manager is often not informed about high-level visits and official tours within the complex. A recent example is the visit of the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the delegation recently. Such visits occurring without the knowledge of the substantive management, represents a serious breakdown in institutional protocol, coordination and transparency. This anomaly has become recurrent and portends a threat to the autonomy and operational integrity of the management structure of the National Theatre’’.

The stance of the unions was presented to journalists in Lagos by Comrade Ishola Adejumo, RATTAWU Chairman, Lagos State, Comrade Bimbola Oluyeye, RATTAWU Secretary, Lagos State, Comrade Olatunji Omodolapo, AUPCTRE Chairperson and Comrade Omotola Babatunde, AUPCTRE Secretary.

‘’The National Theatre is the nation’s heritage and it will be not be ceded to any person or groups as some have chosen to frame it. That the renovation is to restore the National Theatre back to its former glory and it will cost N25, billion to do that. That no single job will be loss as more jobs will be created’’ the unions recollected the words of Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

They said workers were abandoned in the course of the memorandum of understanding signed by Lai Mohammed and the then Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr Godwin Emefiele.

Particularly, the unions decried the inhibition of internally organized programmes despite official payments.

‘’Equally troubling is the recurring refusal to allow National Theatre Staff and departments to organize internal programmes within the complex, even when such programmes have been duly approved and paid for through the Treasury Single Account (TSA). This deliberate suppression of legitimate institutional programing not only affect revenue generation but also contradict the very essence of the National Theatre as a hub for cultural expression and creativity’’

@50: I thank God for making positive impact on lives of others, Expert counselor- Mrs. Rose Obi

By: Celestine Ukah 

A trailblazer and a woman of capacity/CEO and Proprietress of City Child Academy, Amb. Dr. Mrs. Rose Obi appreciates God for making her a positive impact on the lives of others in the society as she marks her 50th birthday anniversary.

Dr. Mrs. Obi an expert counselor whom God has used to remodel lives into good moral behaviour and conduct especially young adults and different homes, expressed gratitude to God for giving her the grace to serve humanity assuring that going forward as she embarks on the next stage of her life, she will remain focus in showing love, peace and harmonious living among the people around her and beyond.

Dr. Mrs. Obi belongs to several professional organisations including the revered Federal Safety Corps, FRSC, Special Marshall, Secretary National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, NAPPS, Delta State Chapter, Fellow Nigeria Maritime Academy and member Counseling Association of Nigeria, CASSON.

The golden jubilee celebrant whose birthday was Friday March 21, 2025 said thus:

“As I celebrate my 50th birthday, I’m filled with joy and gratitude. God has blessed me with boundless energy, a youthful spirit, and a heart that’s passionate about giving. As a dedicated counselor, I’ve had the privilege of making a positive impact on the lives of others, and I’m committed to continuing this beautiful mission of spreading peace, love, and harmony wherever I go.

“Through my life’s journey, I’ve gained valuable experience, wisdom, and insight that have shaped me into the person I am today. I’m proud of the kindness, compassion, and love that I’ve shared with others, and I’m eager to continue growing, learning, and making a difference in the world.

“I’m deeply grateful to God for His guidance, strength, and blessings. As I mark this milestone birthday, I’m reminded that life is a precious gift, and I’m committed to living each day with purpose, passion, and joy. I’ll continue to shine my light, spread love and peace, and inspire others with my infectious energy and positivity! In this new era of my life, I wish to preach the gospel all the days of my life by the grace of God.

To God be the glory, now and forever!”.

Osun Communal Crisis deepens as Former lawmaker, Azeez reportedly killed, houses burnt down

A former councilor from Ifon Orolu in Osun State identified simply as Azeez has been reportedly killed as the boundary disputes involving Ifon and Ilobu communities resurged.

It was not immediately clear how the deceased met his death.

But a resident of Ifon, who spoke on condition anonymity for fear of attack, said Azeez was confirmed dead at the Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, early on Friday.

Punch reports that during the bloody clashes involving the communities, several houses were reportedly razed.

Media aide to Olufon of Ifon, Yusuf Adekunle, who confirmed the incident, accused Ilobu community of sponsoring the attack.

The allegation was, however, dismissed by the Otun Jagun of Ilobu, Adegoke Ogunsola, who said Ifon people launched attacks on the residents of the town, during which many people were injured.

Commenting further, Adekunle said, “The deceased is Hon Azeez, ex-councillor. Ilobu people have made several attempts to attack us, and we reported to security operatives on different occasions. From the 13th to the 20th of this month, we’ve written petitions to the governor and also the security agencies.

All of a sudden, in the middle of the night yesterday around 11 o’clock, we started hearing sporadic gunshots again. They started burning our people’s houses.

“As I am speaking with you I can’t ascertain the number of our people they have killed already and I can’t even say this is the number of the houses they have destroyed they threw a woman inside her house and set the house on fire.

“They affected areas like Akinponroro, Odo Oje, and all those border areas in our community. They even burnt government-owned primary health care in Akinponroro area.”

Speaking on behalf of the Ilobu people, Ogunsola said many residents of the community were attacked by hoodlums from Ifon.

He said, “The truth of the matter is that they started about five days ago, that was on Monday, to attack our people on the farms at Gbere Onireke, and Opapa.

“They attacked one Liasu Ishola who is a Baale of Opapa on Tuesday and they attempted to kidnap him from his house, but he called for help and the farmers around and the bricklayers who were helping him to rebuild his collapsed building rescued him from the hoodlums from Ifon Osun.

“On Wednesday, they went to Gbere Onireke to attack one Oseni Salawudeen and members of his family and one Prince Gbadamosi where he was working on his farm.

“He was shot but was lucky to survive the gunshot. We cried to the police but they said they could not go inside the bush and as a result of that, we mobilised our people to go to the farm to bring the carcass of the motorcycles that were burnt and they are currently at the police station.

“Very late in the evening yesterday, they went to Oke-Ebutu at Ilobu and started destroying peoples’ houses. Though we are seeing some security agencies now, they have not been able to curtail the spread of the clash. So, we call on security agencies to move in to stem the tide of the crisis.”

Meanwhile, Osun State Governor, Ademola, has directed immediate security operations to restore peace between Ifon and Ilobu communities, urging the peace committee to revive the peace deal.

In a statement signed by this spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke enjoined the joint security task force to step in immediately and stop the clashes.

The governor, who decried the politicisation of the crisis, tasked the task force to go after the ring leaders and ensure they face the full wrath of the law.

He further urged the peace committee to ensure immediate cessation of hostility to preserve lives and properties.