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Save Kano Pillars Teams From Relegation, SWAN appeals 

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Area News Nigeria
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Save Kano Pillars Teams From Relegation, SWAN appeals 
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State Chapter, has made a passionate appeal to the Kano State government to intervene urgently and save the Kano Pillars Handball and Volleyball teams from relegation.
According to SWAN Kano Chairman, the teams’ performance is being threatened by inadequate funding, which may lead to relegation. This is a pressing concern, especially considering the recent historic success of Team Kano at the National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.
Team Kano’s impressive performance, which earned them 5 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze medals, was attributed to the adequate timely fundings and early preparation by the state government. However, the current funding situation may jeopardize the teams’ chances of success in the ongoing and upcoming competitions.
In few coming days, the Kano State contingent will participate in the Northwest zonal elimination qualifier at Kaduna State, while the national sports festival games will be held in early January 2025 at Ogun State.
The SWAN Kano Chairman emphasized the importance of timely intervention, citing the saying “if you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” The association hopes that the Sports Commission, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, and the State Government will take immediate action to address the funding issue.
 Additionally, SWAN Kano State Chapter, has commended the Kano State government for its efforts in promoting sports development in the state. The association specifically praised the government for renovating the Sani Abacha Stadium, which will provide a conducive environment for athletes to train and compete. This renovation is part of the state government’s efforts to develop sports facilities and boost the morale of Kano Pillars FC and the youth of Kano.
Speaking on behalf of the chairman, the Assistant Secretary, Muzammil Dalha Yola, SWAN Kano commended the government for distributing sports kits to 600 football clubs across the 44 local governments in Kano State. This initiative is a significant boost to grassroots football development in the state. The association expressed its appreciation for the government’s commitment to sports development and urged it to continue supporting the growth of sports in the state.

NNPCL JV Partners: Ugborodo youth development body condemns Prince Edema’s actions

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Area News Nigeria
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NNPCL JV Partners: Ugborodo youth development body condemns Prince Edema’s actions

 

**Calls for accountability, clarification from Olu

 

The Ugborodo Community Youth Development Body (UYDB) has issued a strong condemnation of Prince Oritsetimeyin Edema, who claimed to be the “Sole Representative and Liaison to NNPCL and JIV Partners” of the Warri monarch, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, following a controversial letter published in the Vanguard newspaper on Thursday, November 28, 2024.

The body, representing the youth of Ugborodo, voiced its concerns over what they described as Edema’s reckless and disrespectful actions, particularly his involvement in a recent sabotage incident on the Dibi/Olero/Abiteye Trunkline, which he allegedly attempted to justify.

According to the group, Edema’s actions violated the traditions of the Itsekiri people and undermine the dignity of the Olu of Warri.

In their statement, signed by Mr Wilson Ejeh (President),Mr David Mamah ( Public Relations Officer), UYDB denounced Edema’s unauthorized use of the Olu’s insignia, arguing that such power is reserved exclusively for His Majesty.

They further emphasized that Edema’s self-appointed role as spokesperson for the Itsekiri people was not only unwarranted but also contrary to the established leadership structures within the community.

“The issue of employment with International Oil Companies (IOCs), which Edema has erroneously claimed to speak on, is within the jurisdiction of Ugborodo Community Youth Development Body, not his. Prince Edema cannot speak for us. His appointment is strictly limited to NNPCL, not Joint Venture (JV) partners as he has claimed”, they said.

UYDB clarified that Edema’s appointment as a liaison officer to NNPCL was clearly outlined by the Olu in a January 2024 letter, which did not grant him any authority over the broader Itsekiri community, let alone a mandate to speak on behalf of the oil-producing regions of Warri.

The group also voiced concern over the public’s perception of Edema’s intentions, suspecting that he may be complicit or sympathetic to the perpetrators of the recent vandalism.

“His actions raise the possibility that he knows the individuals behind the sabotage or is sympathetic to their cause,” they also said.

The Ugborodo Youths called on all IOCs operating in the region to disregard communication from Edema regarding employment or community matters.

They also urged the Olu of Warri to review Edema’s appointment and take necessary actions to avoid further damage to the credibility of the monarchy.

“We urge our Royal Majesty, the Olu of Warri, to act swiftly and review Prince Edema’s role before he brings further embarrassment to the esteemed throne and the people of Itsekiri,” the statement concluded.

The Ugborodo Community Youth Development Body also called for justice for those responsible for the attack on the trunkline, urging law enforcement to identify and prosecute the criminals involved.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to fostering growth and development in the region, warning against attempts to hinder the operations of IOCs that contribute to the community’s economic prosperity.

The letter from UYDB serves as a stern reminder of the ongoing struggles to balance development with local community interests, and the importance of maintaining respect for traditional leadership structures.

Here Is The Full Statement By UYDB:

RE: CHEVRON: ADDRESSING ALL LINGERING ISSUES WITH HOST COMMUNITY IS WIN-WIN FOR ALL PARTIES PUBLISHED ON PAGE 23 OF VANGUARD NEWSPAPER OF THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28TH, 2024.

We, the UGBORODO COMMUNITY YOUTH DEVELOPMENT BODY, write to express our utmost displeasure and embarrassment over the recent actions of one Prince Oritsetimeyin Edema, who claims to be “Sole Representative and Liaison to NNPCL and JIV Partners”, of our esteemed monarch, His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri.

The open letter published in the Vanguard Newspaper of Thursday, November 28, 2024, on page 23, over the act of sabotage on the Dibi/Olero/Abiteye Trunkline, is a clear example of Prince Edema’s thoughtless, ill-conceived, and disrespectful behavior towards the entire Itsekiri nation.

His use of the Olu of Warri insignia is tantamount to the desecration of the Olu’s stool, it is reckless and unacceptable.

This is a prerogative allowable only to His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, as our paramount ruler.

This action is unprecedented in the annals of history of the Itsekiri ethnic nationality. Prince Edema has no locus to exercise such reckless discretion, and his claims of speaking for the oil-producing communities in the 3 (three) Warri Local Government Areas of Delta State, are uncouth and not agreeable to the Itsekiri people.

Each of the Itsekiri communities has its own organs and spokesmen who handle all matters, including employment with International Oil Companies (IOCs). For instance, the issue of employment he emphasised on falls under the purview of the leadership of Ugborodo Community Youth Development Body.

Prince Edema cannot speak for us, and his appointment as Liaison Officer by the Olu does not give him the license to speak for the entire Itsekiri Kingdom.

Prince Edema’s appointment is limited to NNPCL and not JV Partners, as he claimed.
Furthermore, his letter of appointment by our revered monarch does not state that he was appointed as spokesman of the various Itsekiri communities in the 3 Warri LGAs. This is a clear case of impersonation.

The job scope assigned to Mr. Collins Oritsetimeyin Edema was explicitly stated in the letter by our esteemed monarch, titled “Letter Of Authorisation For Mr. Collins Oritsetimeyin Edema, As Sole Representative and Liaison” and dated January 31st, 2024, which was despatched to the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engineer Mele Kyari.

In the letter, His Majesty, stated, “We bring you warm greetings from Warri Kingdom.”

“In a letter with reference number, OWP. 1111/9, and dated 2nd October, 2023, my Palace informed you of Mr. Collins Oritsetimeyin Edema, as the Palace Liason Officer to your establishment, he also serves as my sole representative until otherwise communicated.”

In the appointment letter, Collins Edema was not assigned the mandate as the Spokesman of the various Itsekiri communities in the three Warri Local Government Areas.

We repeat and emphasize that Collins Oritsetimeyin Edema cannot speak for us. And we are happy that the Palace didn’t confer on him the authority to speak for us. He is merely arrogating that power to himself.

To this end, We seize this medium to urge all IOCs operating in our areas to shun and disregard all correspondences from Collins Oritsetimeyin Edema regarding employment and other issues. He is on a mission for self-aggrandisement. His activities are self-seeking and self-serving.

We therefore condemn Prince Edema’s actions and his attempt to justify the economic saboteurs’ actions in the fate of the ill-fated Dibi/Olero/Abiteye Trunklike.

His write-up is a pointer to the fact that either he knows those responsible for the heinous action or he is sympathetic to their wrong course.

We seize this medium to urge our respected Royal Majesty and esteemed Olu of Warri, to review the terms of engagement of Prince Edema before he further embarrasses the revered stool and sons and daughters of Iwereland.

It is high time to call Prince Edema to order before he damages our Royal Magesty’s enviable credibility and brings Iwereland into disrepute.

The security agencies must fish out the perpetrators of the dastardly act of the attack on the Dibi/Olero/Abiteye Trunklike and bring them to book.

We condemn the action and we make bold to demand that the criminals should not escape justice. No one should be allowed to hide under the cloak of demanding employment slots from IOCs to embark on collateral damage of the nation’s economic assets.

The OICs and their servicing companies must be encouraged to operate without let or hindrance in our areas.

This is the way to enhance growth and development in our areas.

We recall the fate of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and their servicing companies during the ill-fated Warri crisis, which led to their fleeing our areas.

We should not allow a repeat of the sad story of the past.

Yours Faithfully,

MR. WILSON EJEH
PRESIDENT

MR. DAVID MAMAH

PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER (PRO).

FOR AND ON BEHALF OF UGBORODO YOUTHS DEVELOPMENT BODY

Delta Government to flag-off old UCC Road, Bridge projects to be constructed by Warri South Council

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Area News Nigeria
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Delta Government to flag-off old UCC Road, Bridge projects to be constructed by Warri South Council

 

 

Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads) Mr. Charles Aniagwu, will on Wednesday December 4, 2024, flag-off major roads and bridge projects to be constructed by the Comrade Agbateyiniro Weyinmi Isaac administration of Warri South Local Government Area.

Whilst the flagging off of the Old UCC Road and Mosque Road in Igbudu Market, will commence by 10.00am, the official inauguration of the sixty-meter Agbeyi Avenue/Ugbomeji Bridge at Ifiekporo Community, is scheduled for 12noon same day.

According to Fresh Angle, The Head of Works Department of Warri South Local Government Council, Engr. Tetsola Tuoyo Gregory, last week, explained to Delta State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Kelly Kalamana Penawou, during inspection of projects executed by the Agbateyiniro administration, that soil testing for the sixty-meter bridge at Ifie-kporo, was already conducted, adding that the Council intends to flag-off “the legacy project this December.”

Former Internationals, Enthusiasts Unite for All-Stars Mega Badminton Championship

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Area News Nigeria
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Former Internationals, Enthusiasts Unite for All-Stars Mega Badminton Championship

 

In a historic show of solidarity, no fewer than fourteen former internationals and badminton enthusiasts from across the globe have rallied to support the forthcoming All-Stars Mega Badminton Championship, poised to be the biggest badminton event in the nation’s history.

The five-day tournament, scheduled for December 11–14, 2024, has drawn significant backing from ex-national players and badminton enthusiasts in Europe, America, and Australia. Their contributions, both financial and moral, underscore a collective drive to elevate the profile of badminton in the country.

Among the notable supporters are Mr. Peter Duku, Mr. Orobosa Okuonghae, Mr. Richard Omobogie, Mrs. Olabisi Fajinmi (née Tiamiyu), Ms. Prisca Azuine, Mr. Abimbola Odejoke, Mr. Ola Fagbemi, Mrs. Sarah Okuonghae, Mr. Emeka Mukolu, Mr. Paul Fagbemi, Mrs Fatima Abdulazeez, Mr. Dauda,
Mr AbdulAkeem Alasiri, Mr.Femi Elewa and Mr. Akeem Ogunseye. These individuals have gone above and beyond, contributing their resources to ensure the competition’s success.

A Passion for Giving Back
Speaking ahead of the tournament, former international Mr. Orobosa Okuonghae reflected on the profound impact badminton has had on his life and career. “The game provided me with opportunities that shaped who I am today,” he said. “When Mr. Fatai reached out, I was excited because I’ve always wanted to give back. This is just the beginning of great things to come. Importantly, we are complementing the federation’s efforts because they can’t do it alone.”

A Legacy of Opportunity
For Mrs. Olabisi Fajinmi (née Tiamiyu), a former national star, the competition resonates deeply. She recalled how the Ikoyi Club and supportive mentors propelled her career to international heights. “This initiative offers young people the kind of opportunities I was fortunate to have,” she said. “That’s why I didn’t hesitate to support it. People should understand that support doesn’t have to come in big amounts—every little effort counts in transforming the game’s fortunes.”

Spreading the Word Globally
Mr. Peter Duku, a passionate badminton stakeholder, has been instrumental in engaging supporters in the UK and the USA. “Although I didn’t play at an international level, I deeply understand how sports can change lives,” he said. “The overwhelming response from our ex-internationals is inspiring, and I believe the future of badminton in Nigeria is bright.”

Abimbola Adejoke, a celebrated African champion and victor of numerous badminton tournaments both locally and internationally, has praised the organizers of the All-Stars Mega Badminton Championship while pledging his unwavering support for the event.

“This is one of the greatest milestones in the history of Nigerian badminton, and I’m honored to be part of it, even from afar,” Adejoke remarked. “The exceptional coordination by Mr. Fatai is a testament to how much this event means for the growth of the game. Although I can’t be there in person, my heart and support are fully with the organizers.”

Reflecting on the current state of support for badminton compared to his era, Adejoke noted: “The challenges in the country’s situation may play a role, but that shouldn’t deter us from doing what is necessary. Badminton has given me so much, and giving back is not just a duty—it’s a privilege. That’s why I’m in total support of this project.”

Ola Fagbemi: A Lifelong Advocate for Badminton
Ola Fagbemi, who recently retired and relocated abroad, remains an ardent supporter of the sport’s development. While still in the country, Fagbemi consistently championed badminton, a commitment he has maintained even from overseas.

“It was an easy decision to support this initiative when I was approached,” Fagbemi shared. “Badminton has provided me with a livelihood and transformed my life. It’s only right that I give back to the sport that has given me so much.”

Fagbemi also lauded the event’s organizers, reaffirming his dedication to contributing to the sport’s future. “I will always be ready to support initiatives like this. It’s our time to give back and ensure that young talents have the opportunities we once had.”

The All-Stars Mega Badminton Championship is not just a tournament; it’s a rallying cry for stakeholders, enthusiasts, and supporters to unite in building a stronger foundation for the sport in Nigeria. With such a passionate community behind it, the event promises to set a new benchmark for the game’s growth and recognition in the country.

Abiodun Sulaimon Scouting Programme: Best Talent Defeat 3SC 1-0 in Ibadan, Sends Warning to Madiba FC, others

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Area News Nigeria
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Abiodun Sulaimon Scouting Programme: Best Talent Defeat 3SC 1-0 in Ibadan, Sends Warning to Madiba FC, others

By: Sunday Agunbiade (Mr VAR)

Best Talent Football Club of Mowe on Monday, 2nd December, 2024 defeated Shooting Stars Sports Club, 3SC 1-0 in the ongoing Abiodun Sulaiman Football Scouting programme taking place at Odogbo Barracks Stadium, Ibadan.

The pulsating encounter started with great intensity, saw the visiting side hijacked the show from Oluyole Warriors right in front of their home fans as spectators applauded the Best Talent for their artistic Football desplay and maturity.

The goal that separated the two teams came through Julius at 16 minutes of play and thus confirmed the superiority of Nigeria League One side over the NPFL team .

It would be recalled that the Ogun State Football giant embarked on traveling tour recently where they played 18 games, winning 16, drew one and loss one. Part of the clubs that fed fat on tasteless breakfast from coach Yusuf Farouk sides were the NNL team, Gateway Football Club of Abeokuta and Ottasolo Football Club of Lagos and today ,Shooting Stars have joined the long list of victims of Best Talent in Ibadan, the state capital.

Best Talent FC prides itself as one of the teams that parade young and exciting players having shown their class across South West of Nigeria winning two Preseason trophies

Match Day 2 continues tomorrow, Tuesday, 3rd December, 2024 as Best Talent play hosts to Madiba FC by 12 noon. Tornadoes will lock horns Santos at 9am while Via Soccer welcome Adeyemi FC And Shooting Stars will trade tackles with RFO FA at 10am and 11am respectively at Odogbo Barracks Stadium, Ibadan.

Increase efforts in poverty reduction policies as it concerns women, Foundation tells Government 

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Area News Nigeria
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Increase efforts in poverty reduction policies as it concerns women, Foundation tells Government 
By Patrick Ochei
The Founder/Coordinator of the Fostering Hopes Foundation, Ms. Nkechi Ukome has called on Government at all levels to increase efforts in their poverty reduction policies, especially as it concerns women.
Ukome made this call in a statement on the 2024 celebration of the 16 Days Activism Against Gender Based Violence with the theme “Towards Beijing+30: Unite To End Violence Against Women And Girls”.
She said, the empowerment of women should become key policy of government amidst the critical functions of women in striving for the survival of their families, thereby listing instances where women have had to be the ones feeding their families, paying their children’s school fees, seeing to the medical needs of their families and more.
In the statement, she said, “Government must of necessity, ensure that poverty reduction becomes its key policy. We know that right now, our country is going through a lot in terms of economic challenges where feeding has become a heartbreaking thing.
“In all of this economic insecurity bedevilling our dear nation, women are the worst hit especially when their breadwinner husbands are not well to do or fall on hard times. Women would always, naturally want to take charge to maintain the standard of the family.
“Therefore, we as a Foundation, fighting so hard to empower communities one family at a time, are advocating for women empowerment through drastic poverty reduction policy and poverty alleviation programmes, specifically for women. This is because, when a woman is empowered, a nation is empowered”, Ukome affirmed.
However, in her effort, some women were recently empowered with money and starter packs for their businesses, while their children were given scholarships to reduce the level of burden and distraction on the women.

President Tinubu Appoints Adeboye as Senior Special Assistant on Grassroots Sports Development

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Area News Nigeria
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President Tinubu Appoints Adeboye as Senior Special Assistant on Grassroots Sports Development

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) has appointed Adeboye Adeyinka, popularly known as Zulu, as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development.

Zulu, a seasoned sports administrator, previously served as the Special Assistant to the immediate past Minister of Sports, Senator John Enoh. His extensive career also includes working with four different Lagos State Governors in various capacities, further cementing his reputation as a dedicated advocate for grassroots sports.

With a wealth of experience in sports administration and grassroots development, Adeboye Adeyinka is poised to play a pivotal role in supporting the National Sports Commission’s mission to transform and revitalize Nigerian sports.

This appointment is widely seen as President Tinubu’s commitment to fostering sports development at the grassroots level, a crucial foundation for building a sustainable and thriving sports ecosystem in Nigeria.

44-Year-Old Ali Not Ready To Retire At Kano Pillars

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Area News Nigeria
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44-Year-Old Ali Not Ready To Retire At Kano Pillars

By Taiye Taiwo

Rabiu Ali, the oldest player and highest-scoring player in the Nigerian Premier Football League, has no plans to retire at age 44. He continues to shine for Kano Pillars, targeting titles and continental qualification. With the influence of Ahmed Musa and Shehu Abdullahi, the team is on the rise in the league.

The oldest player and highest-scoring player in the Nigeria Premier Football League history, Rabiu Ali has confirmed he is not considering saying goodbye to professional football just yet at age 44.

Ali has been in blistering form for Kano Pillars this season and his hard work in the middle of the park combined with his fine scoring talents put him among the best scoring players in the Nigeria top-flight this season.

He has scored eight goals in 10 games so far this term, with four of them coming from free-kicks and he is just a goal behind leading top scorer, Anas Yusuf of Nasarawa United.

Ali is the oldest player in the Nigeria top-flight and he has been playing for Kano Pillars since 2009, scoring in all 14 league seasons he has featured in, including Pillars’ brief stint in the second division.

The 44-year-old has no plans to slow down and he is looking to maintain his physical and mental fitness beyond this current campaign.

Rabiu Ali Has No Plans to Retire Yet
When asked about retirement at age 44, Ali told Sportsbom: “Not now, I’m yet to decide without injury. I will continue with my football career since I can maintain my mental and physical fitness levels.

“The motivation is that I’m happy with my family, I see them cheering me up together and also the prayers from friends and my fans.”

Ambitious Kano Pillars on the rise
Kano Pillars, in November, made a bold statement of intent after playing four matches without defeat. After defeating Plateau United and Bendel Insurance, they settled for back-to-back 2-2 draws against Heartland and Lobi Stars.

Usman Abdallah’s men are positioned eighth in the NPFL table with seven points behind league leaders, Remo Stars.

When quizzed about Kano Pillars’ target for the 2024-25 season, Ali disclosed: “We are hoping for the two titles in Nigeria, the NPFL and the President’s Federation Cup. We also have the target to secure a slot to qualify for either the CAF Champions League or CAF Confederation Cup for next season.”

Ahmed Musa & Shehu Abdullahi’s influence
Pillars’ campaign for silverware has been boosted with the return of former players, Ahmed Musa and Shehu Abdullahi earlier this season.

The duo have contributed to the team’s performance, with Musa bagging three goals already in eight appearances while Abdullahi has been solid with defensive duties.

Musa’s return has made Ali give the former Super Eagles captain the armband, a decision the 44-year-old described as a no-brainer.

He said: “The return of Ahmed Musa and Shehu Abdullahi has clearly boosted out team with the positive results we are recording. We are training together as teammates, we guide and motivate the young players and we are cheering one another as teammates.”

Next up for Ali and his Kano Pillars teammates, is a league trip to Port Harcourt where they will battle Finidi George’s Rivers United for three points on Sunday, December 1.

Group To Sowore: You’re Accused Of Being Sponsored By Disgruntled Elements To Tarnish Image Of Presidential Amnesty Boss

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Area News Nigeria
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Group To Sowore: You’re Accused Of Being Sponsored By Disgruntled Elements To Tarnish Image Of Presidential Amnesty Boss

**Demands Retraction Of Offensive Publication Against Otuaro

 

The Media Advocacy Group (MAG) has exposed Sahara Reporters’ malicious campaign against the Presidential Amnesty Programme, saying it was time to end the madness of  Sahara Reporters’ jungle journalism.

In a Press Statement on Monday and signed by Mr Abiodun Sobanjo (Convener), for and on behalf of Media Advocacy Group (MAG), the Lagos based group said that Sahara Reporters’ made false and unfounded allegations  regarding the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

MAG stated that it is not often they come together as professionals to condemn one of our own, adding that Sahara Reporters indulgence in rogue journalism has become an embarrassment that should not be ignored.

According to the group, the  online publication’s unethical practices taint the time honoured reputation of men and women engaged in professional journalism.

Its publisher, Omoyele Sowore, the group said is  often in the news for bad behaviour, saying that Sowore goads himself in borrowed garment  of saintism and lays claim to false integrity and that he is more of a troubled soul than a social Activist.

The Group said that another  of his egregious journalistic malfeasance came to light recently, through courtesy of his online rag, Sahara Reporters, revealing that; “It made false and unfounded allegations  regarding the Presidential Amnesty Programme”.

“This blatant display of rogue journalism is an affront to the very fabric of our profession, and it is our duty to condemn such reprehensible behaviour.Sowore and his publication cannot differentiate nor draw the borderline between professional etiquette and violation of the rights of fellow citizens”, the group said.

MAG stated that Sahara Reporters’ publisher, Omoyele Sowore, has a well-documented history of unethical practices, including his current entanglement in an American court for slanderous publications against a Nigerian, adding that his penchant for sensationalism and disregard for factual accuracy is a stain on the journalistic community.

“The recent publication in question is a glaring example of Sowore’s modus operandi”, the group said.

The Group said that by  doctoring the 2020/2021 Auditor-General’s Report to make it appear recent, Sahara Reporters aimed to discredit the Presidential Amnesty Programme and its Coordinator, Dr. Dennis Otuaro.

The Group wrote; “This deliberate attempt to deceive the public is a clear violation of journalistic ethics. It’s sad that Sahara Reporters and its handlers accepted to dust up an old Auditor- General’s report on the financial activities of the Amnesty Programme, apparently on the prompting of some disgruntled elements who have lost their shady sources of revenue upon the appointment of Dr. Dennis Otuaro”.

The Group wondered how could  Sahara Reporters have accepted to carry out a hatchet job to use 2020/2021 Auditor General Report to haunt and torment the present leadership of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, which was appointed in 2024?

According to the group Sahara Reporters heavily cannibalised  2020/2021 Auditor General Report to make it appear fresh and presented same to the public as a product of investigative journalism in criminal desperation to impress its paymasters.

The Group  unequivocally condemned Sahara Reporters’ actions and demand an immediate retraction of the publication, as well as a formal apology to Dr. Otuaro and the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

According to them, the allegations presented in the story are baseless, and they challenged Sahara Reporters to provide concrete evidence to support its claims.

Here Is The Full Statement By MAG:

 

 

EXPOSING SAHARA REPORTERS’ MALICIOUS CAMPAIGN AGAINST THE PRESIDENTIAL AMNESTY PROGRAMME

SAHARA REPORTERS AND JUNGLE JOURNALISM: TIME TO END THE MADNESS

It is not often we come together as professionals to condemn one of our own. Sahara Reporters indulgence in rogue journalism has become an embarrassment that should not be ignored. The online publication’s unethical practices taint the time honoured reputation of men and women engaged in professional journalism.

Its publisher, Omoyele Sowore, is  often in the news for bad behaviour, Sowore goads himself in borrowed raiment of saintism and lays claim to false integrity.

He is more of a troubled soul than a social Activist.

Another of his egregious journalistic malfeasance came to light recently, through courtesy of his online rag, Sahara Reporters.

It made false and unfounded allegations  regarding the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

This blatant display of rogue journalism is an affront to the very fabric of our profession, and it is our duty to condemn such reprehensible behaviour.

Sowore and his publication cannot differentiate nor draw the borderline between professional etiquette and violation of the rights of fellow citizens.

Sahara Reporters’ publisher, Omoyele Sowore, has a well-documented history of unethical practices, including his current entanglement in an American court for slanderous publications against a Nigerian.

His penchant for sensationalism and disregard for factual accuracy is a stain on the journalistic community.

The recent publication in question is a glaring example of Sowore’s modus operandi.

By doctoring the 2020/2021 Auditor-General’s Report to make it appear recent, Sahara Reporters aimed to discredit the Presidential Amnesty Programme and its Coordinator, Dr. Dennis Otuaro.

This deliberate attempt to deceive the public is a clear violation of journalistic ethics.

It’s sad that Sahara Reporters and its handlers accepted to dust up an old Auditor- General’s report on the financial activities of the Amnesty Programme, apparently on the prompting of some disgruntled elements who have lost their shady sources of revenue upon the appointment of Dr. Dennis Otuaro.

How could  Sahara Reporters have accepted to carry out a hatchet job to use 2020/2021 Auditor General Report to haunt and torment the present leadership of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, which was appointed in 2024?

Sahara Reporters heavily cannibalised  2020/2021 Auditor General Report to make it appear fresh and presented same to the public as a product of investigative journalism in criminal desperation to impress its paymasters.

We unequivocally condemn Sahara Reporters’ actions and demand an immediate retraction of the publication, as well as a formal apology to Dr. Otuaro and the Presidential Amnesty Programme. 

The allegations presented in the story are baseless, and we challenge Sahara Reporters to provide concrete evidence to support its claims.

Established in 2009 by late President Umaru Musa Yar’adua, the Presidential Amnesty Programme has been instrumental in restoring oil production to pre-amnesty levels and reducing insecurity in the Niger Delta region. 

Despite its successes, Sahara Reporters still saw it fit and proper to launch a malicious campaign against the Programme, leveraging on fabricated allegations to tarnish the reputation of its coordinator, Dr. Otuaro.

The Nigerian Press Council (NPC) must take decisive action against Sahara Reporters for their deliberate breach of journalistic ethics.

The online publication has to be sanctioned to serve as a future deference.

It must not be allowed the same free run it has basked in since its inception.

This time around, Sahara Reporters must not get away with the misdemeanour.

We also support the ongoing legislative efforts aimed at regulating and streamlining social media practice as it will help to curb the spread of misinformation and protect the integrity of the journalism profession.

Sahara Reporters’ actions constitute a clear case of defamation, and we demand that they take responsibility for their actions.

Defamation is a serious offense, and it can have far-reaching consequences for an individual’s reputation and livelihood.

In conclusion, we reiterate our demand for Sahara Reporters to retract the offending publication, apologize to Dr. Otuaro and the Presidential Amnesty Programme without delay.

We will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary steps to shield and protect the reputation of Dr. Otuaro and the Presidential Amnesty Programme from undeserved antagonism from rogue publications like sahara Reporters.

We will not watch helplessly while some few bad eggs destroy our cherished profession.

SIGNED:

MR. ABIODUN SOBANJO
CONVENER 

FOR AND ON BEHALF OF MEDIA ADVOCACY GROUP (MAG).

NPFL Matchday 15: Shooting Stars 2: Abia Warriors Nill, 3SC now 6th on the log 

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Area News Nigeria
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NPFL Matchday 15: Shooting Stars 2: Abia Warriors Nill, 3SC now 6th on the log 

 

Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) put smiles on the faces of their teeming supporters and fans as they defeated Abia Warriors of Umuahia 2-0 in a Matchday 15 encounter, played at the Lekan Salami Stadium..

It took the Oluyole Warriors the first 45 minutes to secure the maximum points via goals from Anthony Okachi and Akpan Joshua.

Playing without key players, Alex Aghahowa, Muritala Taiye and Lawal Abdullahi who missed the game due to suspension and injury, the Ibadan soccer lords almost grabbed an early goal but had Samuel Ayanrinde’s second minutes effort hit the upright.

The coach Gbenga Ogunbote tutored side, who had the duo of Ikouwem Utin and Gideon Monday, back in action after recovering from injuries, scored twice in the spate of five minutes.

Anthony Okachi converted a spot kick awarded his side in the 39th minute, after overlapping skipper Gali Falke was hacked in the box, before Akpan Joshua finished off a pull out by Gideon Monday.

Abia Warriors almost reduced the tally before the break but were denied by astonishing reflexes of goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal, who made two point blank saves within seconds to ensure the hosts returned to the locker room with their two goals advantage.

The coach Imama Amapakabo tutored visitors showed flashes in the second half, taking the game to the Ibadan soccer lords but met a stiff resistance from the 3SC rear, marshalled by Desmond Ojietefian, Ayodeji Bamidele, Ikouwem Utin and Gali Falke with Adebayo Abayomi complementing their efforts, in addition to goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal’s composure in between the sticks.

None of the two sides could find the back of the net in the half, as all their efforts proved abortive till referee Grema Mohammed, who had the game under control, blew the final whistle.

According to the Media Officer, Tosin Omojola, the win moved Shooting Stars to the sixth position on the log with 21 points from 15 matches and the Oluyole Warriors will next head for Ijebu-Ode for a Matchday 17 clash against Sunshine Stars, with the Southwest Derby holding on Sunday.

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