*Says Anambra among top 10 safest States in Nigeria
The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo says Anambra State is the capital of Erosion in Nigeria.
Governor Soludo made the declaration Sunday September 18, 2022 during Sunday Politics on Channelstv , he raised the alarm while fielding questions from the Host on the recent flagged off 80 kilometers road projects in tie state .
He assured that the projects inauguration will be complete and commissioned within the specific time.
While speaking on Insecurity in Anambra state. Gov. Soludo said his administration is decimating so many of the camps of the criminals in the state , adding that the government will sustain their operation against the criminals in the state, he commended the security agencies and the people of Anambra for their support in keeping the state safe as the light of the Nation and that darkness can’t comprehend light.
The Chief Security Officer of Anambra state added that the state is among the 10 safest States in Nigeria as there’s no free state from security challenge in the country.
A political group, Felix Otomewo and Friends aka Team Felix Otomewo has met with members of the group in the Delta North Senatorial District of the State.
The National Coordinator of the group, Dr. Zino Akpor, told members that the purpose of the group is to drum support for the Delta State PDP governorship candidate, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori (JP)
He charged members of the group to scale their sensitization for Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori to the ward level to garner more support.
On his part, Mr. Innocent Iwebuena, Coordinator, FOF/TFO Delta North Zone, said that they are happy to be members of the group and will do all within their power to garner support for the the candidacy of the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and National Deputy Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of state legislatures of Nigeria, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori.
He said that the entire nine local government areas have coordinators for the group, assuring that members of the zones are ready to support the Candidacy of Rt Hon Oborevwori for governor in 2023.
In his remarks, Comrade Philip J Otomewo, the state Coordinator for the group expressed gratitude to all and sundry on behalf of the group and Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for coming.
“I am glad to be standing here to express my vote of thanks. I would be failing in my duty if I did not thank my fellow Coordinators who have made this gathering possible. I would also like to thank each and every one of you for being here. Let us support the Delta State PDP Governorship Candidate, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori to become our next Governor in 2023”, he stated.
*As Command implements CG’s directive, launches operation “Show no Mercy to Crude Oil thieves” to end Crude oil thieves December
Acting on the presidential directive to the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corp Dr Abubakar Audi Ahmed PhD(mni) directing him to put an end to Crude Oil theft and oil pipeline vandalism on or before the end of December 2022.
The CG therefore, gave a matching order to all state commandant’s to crush and decimate all crude oil thieves and pipeline vandals in their respective states without mercy.
The Commandant Nigeria Security And Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Delta State, Akinsanya Iskilu Abiodun has paraded over Eight arrested suspected crude oil thieves and pipelines vandals in the State.
While parading the suspects in Warri, Delta State, the Delta State Command Public Relations Officer of NSCDC, DSC Emeka Peters Okwechime disclosed to journalist that the arrested suspects were for various crimes committed across the State.
DSC Emeka Okwechime in the State Command statement affirmed that sequel to the above directive from the NSCDC Commandant General, the Delta State Commandant of the Nigeria Security Security and Civil Defence Corps Akinsanya Iskilu Abiodun launched the Commandant Special Tactical Team code named “Operation Show No Mercy To Crude Cil Thieves, Pipeline Vandals Amongst Other Crimes and Criminalities in the state. Barely 24hours into their operations they arrested some suspected crude oil thieves, vandals along the Warri Sapele Road and those illegally dealing in petroleum products suspected to be Dual Purpose Kerosine DPK and Automated Gasoline Oil AGO.
The PRO DSC Emeka Okwechime gave the names of the suspects as Mr Salisu Ibrahim 22yrs (m), Idris Ilia 23yrs (m) and Usman Adam 32yrs(m).
According to him the “Team also bursted and sealed up an illegal dump site used in illegally dealing and storing of illegally refined petroleum product suspected to be Automated Gasoline Oil AGO close to the Niger Cat junction in Uvwie LGA of Delta State which led to the arrest of Two other suspects whose names are, One Mr Aminu Garuba 32yrs (m) and Usman Tasiu 19yrs(m).
“On the Warri Sapele highway, the Team also swop on black marketers illegally dealing in petroleum products suspected to be Automated Gasoline Oil AGO, several drums of illegally refined AGO were destroyed and two suspects was arrested.
The sting operations and raiding continues until the State is sanitise of crude oil thieves and pipeline vandals”.
Also paraded by the NSCDC Image Maker Dsc Emeka Peters Okwechime, was Mrs Blessing Ojewale (f) 40yrs of age, engaged in illegally dealing in petroleum product suspected to be Dual Purpose Kerosine DPK concealed in about 30 polythene sacks estimated to be about 1000litres of DPK loaded in a toyota sienna bus with registration number LSR 832 CZ used in conveying the product. She was arrested on the 12th of September 2022 at about 1600hrs at Ebendo along Kwale road by the Commandant Special Tactical Team, while the driver jumped into the bush upon sighting the men of the NSCDC.
“The Command also arrested one Mr Idogor Sunday (m) with about 27numbers of 25liters Jerry cans of petroleum product suspected to be Dual Purpose Kerosene DPK loaded in a Mitsubishi Space Runner bus with Registration Number CL 374 ABC, he was arrested at Kwale Junction in Ogwash uku along the Asaba Kwale highway at about 1930hrs on the 12th of September 2022 by the Commandant Special Tactical Team”.
DSC Emeka Peters Okwechime stated that while the Sting Operations Continues and Intensify higher, the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation in order for them to face the full weight of the law and to serve as deterrent to would be criminals.
Members of Engr & Mrs. Ifuwe family & DBS Sports club team: Ceejay Nwajei (right) Nushe (3rd right) Dr. Okeelum (2nd left)
From left: Louis Nushe, Engr. & Surv. Mrs. Chineme Ifuwe & Dr. Felix Okwelum
By: Celestine Ukah
*We’re glad your coming will add more success to the club’s growth – DBS GM, Oteri, Nushe
*He’s a good sports Man- members jubilate
*My Husband is a very good man- Wife Mrs. Ifuwe declares
An Oil & Gas Consultant and Member Pipelines Association of Nigeria, PLAN, Engr. Patrick Ossai Ifuwe has been inducted as Patron of Delta Broadcasting Service, DBS Sports Club, Warri, Delta State.
The induction which was done at Engr. Ifuwe’s residence at Ekpan area near Warri , Saturday September 10, witnessed large turn out of members of the Club in attendance with massive and colossal entertainment by the host.
While performing the inauguration, General Manager, Delta Broadcasting Service Warri, PST. Malcolm Oteri who on behalf of the Management approved the nomination and induction of Engr. Patrick Ossai Ifuwe as patron commended him for his selfless self to the club and humanity, urged him to sustain his support and commitment to the growth of DBS Sports club.
Speaking on behalf of the DBS Warri General Manager, Louis Nushe a Deputy General Manager also hailed the emergence of Engr. Ifuwe as among Patrons of the noble DBS sports Club, he congratulated and urged him to remain committed to the body as his induction is for a higher responsibility.
DGM Nushe who is also the the Coordinator of the DBS Sports Club expressed delight for the cooperation of members of the club for their solidarity and steadfastness towards the height DBS Sports Club is receiving, he as well appealed for continuous support .
Members of the club in their response were full of excitement for Engr. Ifuwe as Patron 3 , noting that his track records towards participation to activities of the club is unique which has endeared him to many which has transformed him being appointed into the office of higher responsibility.
They congratulated him for his elevation to serve the club as patron.
Engr. Ifuwe in his acceptance remark assured the club of total support, adding that he’s going to make some of the needs available especially the urgent need of mats for physical exercise, he thanked the Club for giving him the honour and opportunity to serve as among other leaders in the club.
Wife of Engr. Ifuwe, Surv. Mrs. Chineme Ifuwe described his Husband as “a very good man, assuring that his husband is going to be a very good patron, for he finds joy in whatever he does by God’s Grace”.
Dr. Felix Okwelum-Patron, Other members of the Club including Celestine Ukah, Wilson Onose, Ceejay Nwajei, Mrs. Ngozi Leigh, Daniel Edeh, Dele, OJC Cares, Coach Weyinmi attended the ceremony.
*Says PDP needs to unify itself before it can unify Nigeria
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has insisted that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, must resign to pave the way for peace in the party.
Makinde said this when he received the party’s presidential flag-bearer, Atiku Abubakar, at the South-West PDP stakeholders meeting in Ibadan on Wednesday, September 14, 2022.
Why is this important: Recall that the PDP has been embroiled in an internal turmoil since the conclusion of its presidential convention which produced Atiku as the winner.
Makinde said the PDP needs to unify itself before it can unify the country.
The former Vice-President’s emergence has ensured that the party’s flag-bearer and National Chairman are both from the Northern part of the country, a development which hasn’t gone down well with some stakeholders from the South.
Ayu must go: Makinde, together with the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has insisted that Ayu must leave his current position for someone from the South to step in to correct the imbalance, but the chairman has remained adamant.
Makinde doubled down: During his welcome address at the Wednesday meeting with Atiku, the Oyo state Governor restated the position of the South-West over the crisis in the party.
Makinde, who described Atiku as “the incoming President of Nigeria in 2023,” said the PDP must first of all practice the unity agenda it hopes to sell to Nigeria.
Makinde’s word: “The truth is that we do not have any issue either with our party or our candidate. If there are challenges they must be tabled.
“We are supposed to give hope to our people, we want them to listen to us.
“Our party wants to rescue Nigeria and our candidate is a unifier. He wants to restructure Nigeria.
“Eight years of the All Progressives Congress have left us sharply divided. The issue is we must practice what we preach. If we want to unify Nigeria, we must unify the PDP first.
“If we want to restructure Nigeria, we must have the willingness to bring inclusivity to the PDP. Do we have the capacity? The answer is resounding yes.
“The message from the South-West PDP is the South-West is asking that the National Working Committee of the PDP should be restructured.
“We are asking the National Chairman to step down so that the South will be fully included. That is the message.”
*As Isselu-Uku Kingdom celebrates 2022 Ine-Aho Festival
Climaxing the 2022 Ine Aho Festival, His Royal Majesty, Agbogidi Obi Nduka (MNSE), Obi of Issele-Uku Kingdom has sent a strong message of peace and harmony to world leaders in general, and particularly political leaders in Nigeria, Delta State and Aniocha North Local Government Area, to always eschew bitterness and embrace peace in the interest of the socioeconomic growth and development of the various global societies; and specifically urging politicians in Nigeria to seek peace and rule of law ahead of the coming general elections in 2023.
He made this call while granting interview to newsmen on his Ine Festival, which is the major feast amongst the series of activities within the Ine Aho Festival.
Obi Nduka affirmed that a peaceful world is a world that is safe, secure and one that can only usher in more in development and security of the sanctity of life and dignity of man.
The amiable Monarch also sent a message of condolence to the British Monarchy and Government over the transition of Queen Elizabeth 11, the Queen of England, affirming that she was such a fanciful global personality that the world would miss for a long time.
He said while respect and tributes are being paid to her memories, the world should also accord reverence to the new King Charles 111 by praying for him to succeed in doing much more that the world would equally appreciate and celebrate at the end of time.
“There is a new dawn for the British people; they should be brave and look forward to the future, as we all should. It’s our season of joy having experienced a bountiful harvest, and so I call on all our people to embrace peace and harmony”, Obi Nduka added.
Without mincing words, Agbogidi Nduka admonished politicians to put themselves in check as election is close to call, maintaining that the country including the State cannot afford to face crisis in a period of contest which is supposed to symbolise sportsmanship.
It was indeed a busy day for the intelligently classy King who concluded his five days of intense spiritual exercise, having been in a solitude state praying for his people and blessing them with nzu (white native chalk). The morning of the Ine was when he came out from that solitude mood (Ipu Nzu) by visiting the Ishu Ani to pray for a number of times before a gunshot indicated that he had concluded his five days period of fasting and praying (Ino Nzu). It was a period that the entire community was compartmentalised into quietness in strict observance of the holy days, otherwise any live animal around could be killed at one’s expense or seizure of one’s property as value for the offence of noise making.
Now the town can celebrate as Obi goes inside to freshen up in readiness to receive homages from the warlords (Onotu Chiefs) and other well wishers.
The sound of the gun tells the warlords that the king is out of his solitude mood and they too can fire their own guns at their various quarters, indicating an agreement that the period of noiselessness had ended and the people can now celebrate. With that mindset, they will dress in their regalia, gather their people to eat and drink and then dance to the Palace to pay homage, report their war experiences to the king and then receive the Royal handshake in commendation for their heroic exploits at their various internal and external security assignments. This is what is known as “Inaka”.
Issele-Uku is made up of nine villages – Umueze Issei, Ogbe-Owele, Ogboli, Ukpai, Idumuinei, Ogbe-Utu, Ogbe-Ofu, Idumu-Ahaba and Ute. Majority of these villages if not all, have chiefs who represent them as warlords who go to fight in moments of external aggressions. And so, their gathering in this manner at the Issele-Uku Royal Palace is to report back to the King the events of the season.
While the dance is ongoing at the Palace Ground (Uge Obi), the chiefs would go in to usher the king out for the “Uje” which is the mimicking of the ancient nature of Issele-Uku king in times of war as Commander-in-Chief.
Before the chiefs and the Obi could emerge from the Palace chambers, the Omu; Omu Beatrice Onwodi in this instance and her Ilogo Omu had danced from the Uge into the main Palace, performed some rites just as the king and chiefs stepped out by the door and there was a rousing ovation and ecstatic shouts from the crowd awaiting his appearance.
The Obi is then led to the main centre of attraction with the Royal Dance (Egwu Issoh); and while in that procession, he prays to his ancestors through the performance of some rites along the way. Sitted at the Ukpo after another round of spiritual cleansing by the Omu and Eze Dibie, the chiefs began to come dancing in their order of seniority to take the Royal handshake.
For this year, the Onotu Chiefs that came for the “Ime Uje” performed exceptionally well as they were conducted in the act of “Inaka” in their order of seniority.
First, the Iyase of Issele-Uku Kingdom known as the Traditional Prime Minister, Chief Innocent Etenmua Ashiedu, representing Ogbe-Ofu Village took the lead. He was praised as “Oyibo na nma”, a handsome whiteman. Of course as an American resident with a career in Aeronautics Engineering, he has done well for himself in family, business and love for the culture of his forebears.
The second Onotu Chief is the Okwalegwe of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Dr. John Ochei representing Idumuinei Village. The Okwalegwe Chieftaincy Title was first given to Ochei Unewu as a brave and energetic young man who was a bosom friend of the then Prince Egbune. The young Prince had lobbied his father to appoint Ochei as the commander of the Issele-Uku troop that fought against another enemy community in a war. Due to his exploits that earned Issele-Uku victory in that war, Obi Usifo then bestowed the Title of Okwalegwe to Ochei and his offsprings in perpetuity. Chief John Ochei is the fourth in that lineage from Ochei to his son, Nwabunoh Ochei, to his grandson, Charles Chiemeke Ochei and now to another grandson, John Ochei. The current occupant is a retired Laboratory Technologist from the University College Hospital, UCH Ibadan, from where he moved to work at the University of Oman for years. He later returned to work with the Bowen University in Nigeria, and then Global Funds before joining the Babcock University, Ogun State as a Chief Lecturer.
The third is the Isama of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Hon. Krees Njiokwuemeni, representing Idumuigwe. He is a renowned lawyer and former Majority Leader of the Delta State House of Assembly. His displays at the Inaka rituals would prove to you that he is indeed a warlord of repute.
The fourth is the Inene of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Dr. Felix Nwani, representing Idumu-Ahaba Village. He also represented very well, being a son of the former Inene of Issele-Uku.
The fifth Onotu Chief in line is the Agujiegbe of Issele-Uku, Chief Sunday Gabriel Ebite representing the Ishiekpe Quarters of Umueze Issei Village. When you see his appearance, it is obvious he has things to do behind rifles. As a retired police chief, the title of the lion with the gun is befitting and he hasn’t been found wanting as he has been instrumental to the security of the town and control of the youths against the use of dangerous weapons.
The sixth Onotu Chief is the Esogba of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Fidelis Jigide representing the Ogbeidibo Quarters of Umueze Issei Village. He is fondly called the dancing Chief and he has never failed to make the Ine Aho a fun to watch. Of course, his grandfather was the great Isagba of Issele-Uku in the days of Chief Nwalia, Chief Ufoegbune, Chief Charles Ochei and others.
The seventh Onotu Chief and last in line for the day is the Olotor of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Ignatius memeh representing Idumu-Ahaba Village. He is an astute politician who is respected among his folks. He has shown enormous interest in the culture of Issele-Uku being an ancient kingdom with roots in Bini Monarchical Dynasty.
Take note that after the chiefs had paid homage to Obi Nduka, they moved round to share their fraternal greetings with their fellow chiefs who are palatial and social in nature and other dignitaries sitting inside the Uge as the show was on.
After the chiefs had done their part, then came the king who danced majestically to pay homage to his forebears at the Ishu Ani by the market square. On his return, he greeted his beautiful wife, Anasi-Obi Chukwudumebi Rosemary Nduka who had been dancing and eulogizing him along with other wives in the Royal family.
Dancing into the Palace, Obi Nduka retreated to prepare for the main moment – the moment of Igbu Agboh. The Ukpo (traditional seat) was also taken inside by the Isekute, meaning that he was done with the celebration inside the Uge for the day.
While the celebration was still ongoing outside, the next emergence of the Agbogidi was fierce and warlike. He appeared in red regalia in an obvious mood of war, wielding cutlass while the able bodied Igbebors and Idimes were close to prevent him from actual bloodshed.
Obi Nduka is indeed an enigma, Godsent and graced in all ramifications as a wise Royal Father and firm king. On his return from the Igbu Agboh, performed inside the Afor Market, he bade the people goodbye as he retired into his Chambers, calling it a day from his own end.
The Ine does not stop at this point but continues into the night and the next day. The beauty of the Ine Aho Festival is in the “Igba Ine” itself; an experience that is never wished to end.
However, the grandfinale of it all will happen on the 16th September, a day set aside for the final sacrifice and homage to the forebears of Issele-Uku at the Ishu Ani, known as Ishu Onicha. This is where the Palace, Honorary and Social chiefs will have their date to receive their own royal handshake from the king. The Onotu Chiefs who will come will be with the king as he performs the rites of the day.
The 2022 Ine Festival was indeed colourful, glamorous and resplendent as a result of the clemency of the weather. It was equally well attended with music at every corner and the dignitaries who graced it included the Odogwu of Obior representing the Obi of Obior, Chief Ike Odoe, the Ojioba of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Barr. Mrs. Josephine Ada Kachikwu, the Ezinne of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Sunday Monye, the Osodi of Issele-Uku Kingdom (one who guides and protects the Anasi-Obi), Chief David Siunoje, the Olikeze of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief (Barr.) Tony Nwabuotu, the Ide of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Victor Egbune, the Inwengwe of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Brian Odiakosa, the Osigie of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Egbo Adigwe, the Chi-Obi of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Chief Uche Ngbanwa, the Ashi-Obi of Issele-Uku Kingdom, Hon. Engr. Emeka Emmanuel Nwaobi, Member of Delta State House of Assembly and PDP candidate for Aniocha North Constituency, Mr. Bazim Sally Biose, the APC candidate for Aniocha North Constituency, Prince Ibe Ozoma, CEO of Fidelity Fortunes Group of Companies, Prince Mike Akeh, a corporate czar, Mr. Chiedu Kogos (Marketing and Events Consultant), Mr. Onyeisi Mokogwu (National President of Issele-Uku Progressive Youth Association), Prince and Princess Mrs. Nwoko, Diokpa Frank Mordi and wife and others too numerous to mention.
*First Prize Winner to go home with 1million Naira, other consultation prizes
A musical talent hunt programme organized by the Delta Broadcasting Service. DBS Warri, Delta State, known as the DBS Song of the Year Season 3 opened for young people from age 12 and above, an empowerment event is set to commence auditioning Friday September 16, 2022 in Warri.
According to the Chairman of the DBS Song of the Year Season 3, Mrs. Obes Isonguyo, an Assistant General Manager, Programmes, said the star prize first winner will go home with one million Naira and a recording deal, while the second prize winner will go with Three Hundred Thousand Naira with a recording deal and the third position will receive a hundred thousand Naira.
Other top 10 contestants will also get consolation prizes powered by the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC.
Mrs. Isonguyo, in her statement with newsmen, added that the auditioning which begins this Friday September 16, 2022 is targeted to produce 50-select qualified participants who will be lucky to cross over to the next stage and after that move to the next stage where next top 10 will be camped in a 5-star hotel and trained by prominent music producers and musicologist for a week.
The Organizing Committee Boss, noted that the grand finale of the DBS Warri Song of the Year Season 3 will be holding on Thursday November 24, at Lascurt Intercontinental Hotel along NPA Expressway, Warri. She appealed for more sponsors in order to make it more elaborate as it will serve as an opportunity for people to show case and advertise their businesses using the DBS platform to reach out to numerous customers, Mrs. Isonguyo , urged all participants and other intending entries to take note and make themselves and those concern available for smooth event.
UDU – IN its bid to foster a harmonious working relationship amongst stakeholders, the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Udu Branch on Sunday had an interactive session with the Police, Road Safety Officials and Chief Magistrates of Udu and Effurun.
The proactive strategy was the brain child of the new executive led by Kingsley Asagba Esq.
The well attended meeting which held at the Grace Model Group of Schools Ovwian had Chief Andrew Orugbo Esq, former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Delta State as the moderator.
In attendance were, Chief Magistrate Effurun, Ena Odjugo Esq, his Udu Area Magisterial Counterpart, T.J. Nzekwu Esq, ACP Anche Joseph, Police Area Commander Burutu Command, CSP Aliyu Shabba, DPO Ovwian/Aladja Division and ACC Danjuma Goji, Road Safety Unit Commander.
In his opening speech, Chief Andrew Orugbo welcomed every participant, noting that it was a great day for a new beginning and called for understanding.
The former AG Delta State also revealed that what causes friction amongst stakeholders saddled with dispensation of justice is the inability to fight and seek justice.
He insisted that every stakeholder should ensure that the rule of law prevails above primordial sentiments.
On his part, ACP Anche Joseph, Police Area Commander Burutu Command said that the major problems between the police and lawyers most times is ‘gap in communication’, he calls for mutual respect and understanding.
The Police Area Commander said that most lawyers once briefed by their clients go to the police station with sentiments without hearing the other side of the complaints against their client.
He noted that if police receive complaints and make an arrest, they have to do investigations before bail can be granted, he urged lawyers to do preliminary investigations when they are briefed. He also emphasis the need for police officers to differentiate between criminal and civil matters as some petitions are coined to have criminal colouration whereas the issue is purely civil. He went further to clarify the fact that bail is free and lawyers should not accept to pay money for bail or use money to tempt police officers to get their clients on bail.
CSP Aliyu Shabba, DPO Ovwian/Aladja Division while speaking aligned himself to the position of the Police Area Commander and called for understanding amongst stakeholders in the justice sector.
Chief Magistrate and administrative magistrate, Effurun magisterial district, Ena Odjugo Esq in his address urged stakeholders to show courtesy to one another and calls for regular interaction amongst stakeholders.
Odjugo promised a continuous harmonious relationship with the police, lawyers and Road Safety Officials and called for respect for the ethics of the professions.
Chief Magistrate and administrative magistrate, Udu magisterial district, T.J. Nzekwu, Esq, on his part thanked the Udu Bar leadership for the initiative, insisting that everyone should treat others the way they want to be treated.
Nzekwu urged the Road Safety Officials to giver concession in minor infractions due to the harsh economic situation in the country and shouldn’t be quick to punish.
The Learned Magistrate called for empathy, urging everyone to put himself on the other person’s position.
On his part, the Unit commander, Federal Road Safety Corp, Mr. Danjuma Goji, calls for the need for cordial relationship between lawyers and the road safety officials but that lawyers should try and have the necessary facilities such as fire extinguishers in their cars. He posited that safety is everyone’s duty. He further assured that he will talk to his men to stop whatever embarrassment on lawyers or judicial officers as the “esprit de corp” should be extended.
Several lawyers including C.D.S. Omon-Irabor Esq also made their contributions on how to foster a harmonious working relationship between the police and lawyers.
The NBA Udu Chairman, Kingsley Asagba Esq expressed his gratitude to the guests and members for taking time out to work for a better relationship.
Asagba stated that his administration will work hard to achieve cordial relationship between the police, road safety officials, lawyers and the court and that this interactive session will be a continuous exercise to ensure that lawyers work in a friendly environment without any form of intimidation or fear.
*Says Only Those Involved In Illegal Oil Bunkering Will Go Against The Pipeline Contract
The Niger Delta Movement For Radical Change (NDMRC) has rained heavy knocked on Chief (Mrs) Rita-Lori Ogbebor on her position on the #4.5 Billion pipeline contract awarded by the NNPC and the Federal Government to Chief Government Ekpemupolo aka Tompolo, accusing her of promoting tribal war
The group equally hit Asari Dokubo hard who had been saying unpleasant things against Tompolo over the pipeline contract, describing him as enemy of the oil rich Niger Delta Region
Chief (Mrs) Rita-Lori Ogbebor had fumed in an interview over the pipeline contract awarded to the former Niger Delta warlord, Tompolo, saying that it will lead to anarchy in the area.
Chief (Mrs) Rita-Lori Ogbebor, had warned the Federal Government to withdraw the N4.5 billion monthly pipeline contract awarded to the leader of Movement for the Emancipation of Niger-Delta (MEND), Government Ekpemupolo aka Tompolo, describing it as invitation to anarchy. For her, the award of the humongous contract sum to one individual in Niger Delta as a clear demonstration of government abdicating its responsibilities to the people and lambasted the Federal Government for failing in it’s responsibility to manage oil resources in Niger Delta and maintaining peace in the country.
But NDMRC, an oil monitoring group in the region in a Press Statement signed by its President, Nelly Emma, Secretary, John Sailor and Public Relations Officer (PRO), Stanley Mukoro, and made available to newsmen on Tuesday, September 13th, 2020, lamented the position of Chief (Mrs) Rita-Lori Ogbebor on the pipeline contract, imploring her to shun tribal sentiment and promote unity among the people of the Niger Delta Region.
“Our attention has been drawn to the outburst of Chief (Mrs) Rita-Lori Ogbebor on the award of the pipeline contract to Tompolo and we must say that we are sadden by her position on the issue. It is very sad and painful that at a time that we are talking about how to promote national unity and halt the unabated illegal oil bunkering in the oil rich region, Chief (Mrs) Rita-Lori Ogbebor is bringing tribal issues into the award of the pipeline contract to a respected son of the region, Tompolo. We are highly disappointed with her position on the pipeline contract”, the group said.
The group added that; ” We hate to believe that she is into illegal bunkering hence she is seriously against the award of the pipeline contract to Tompolo because it is only those who are milking the nation high and dry and smiling to the bank with their proceeds from illegal bunkering business will really go against the pipeline contract. For the avoidance of doubt, we want to let Chief (Mrs) Rita-Lori Ogbebor to know that Tompolo has magnanimously sublet the Itsekiri aspect of the pipeline contract to an Itsekiri son, Chief Emani Ayiri in his determination to carry everybody along as far as the pipeline contract is concerned. Chief (Mrs) Rita-Lori Ogbebor is certainly on her own because only recently Itsekiri youths stormed Oporoza, Headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South Local Government Area of Delta where they declared their support for Tompolo and promised to work with him on the pipeline contract awarded to him by the NNPC and the Federal Government. She should stop promoting tribal war because her children are not on grounds and if there is a crisis today, only innocent children and not her own will be affected and we want to implore the Olu of Warri Kingdom Ogiame Atuwatse 111 to be wary of the kind of chiefs around him so that he is not misled by mischief makers and those promoting tribal war.
While saying that the hard earned reputation of Tompolo was at stake to deliver on the pipeline contract, the oil monitoring group stated that; “The time is really up for those deeply involved in the illegal oil bunkering in the Niger Delta Region that has destroyed the ecosystem in the area and led to lost of revenue by the Federal Government and it is Tompolo that can help the government to halt the illegal bunkering. Let all those who are making so much money from the illegal oil bunkering and who are against the award of the pipeline contract to Tompolo have a quick rethink and accept the reality on ground that Tompolo has come on a rescue mission as he has all it takes to deliver on this national assignment and people like Chief (Mrs) Rita-Lori Ogbebor and Asari Dokubo cannot stop the moving train”.
“We have come across all the unpleasant comments and interviews against Tompolo by Asari Dokubo regarding the pipeline contract and it is unfair and very unfortunate that this same man helped by the former Niger Delta warlord, Tompolo is out saying all kinds of things about a man so much respected throughout the country. Asari Dokubo has forgotten in a hurry how Atake Tom chased him away from Rivers State over 20 years ago and Tompolo sheltered him by giving him aslum to protect him from Atake Tom and his boys and at the end of the day, he paid Tompolo back by snatching the girl friend of the senior brother of Tompolo and ended up marrying her and when returning to Rivers state, the same Tompolo gave him enough boys to follow him back home for his safety and protection”, the group said.
The Group added that; “We have always known Asari Dokubo as a selfish and ungrateful person and so we are not surprised now at the behaviour of Asari Dokubo because his main source of income is coming to an end because Tompolo is out to clean up the system and halt the oil theft for the benefit of all Nigerians and this is not going to be palatable to Asari Dokubo and his co-travellers. Tompolo is not only a leader in Gbaramatu Kingdom, but a respected leader and a man of Honour in the entire Niger Delta Region. Tompolo has been given a job and he will not fail because his reputation is at stake and the game is up for the likes of Asari Dokubo”.
The Group also said that; ” The people of the Niger Delta Region will continue to remain grateful to Chief Government Ekpemupolo, a wonderful son of the Niger Delta Region for drawing the attention of the Federal Government to the neglect of the area and his dogged fight against oil theft in the region. He has helped in securing permanent peace in the Niger Delta Region, protection of critical oil and gas infrastructure, eradication of oil bunkering and increased generation of internal revenue especially in the Maritime sector. Let all stakeholders in the region join forces and give him the necessary support and encouragement as far as this pipeline contract is concerned, he is not doing it for himself, but for the love of our beloved country and the people of the Niger Delta Region. Tompolo is not scared of the likes of Chief (Mrs) Rita-Lori Ogbebor and Asari Dokubo who may be working together against the pipeline contract as he is prepared to expose all those involved in oil theft in the region. He has a mandate from the Federal Government and nobody dare cross his way”.
“We want to sincerely commend President Muhammedu Buhari, the GMD of the new NNPC and Chief of Defence Staff for taking this drastic action in ensuring the award of the pipeline contract to Tompolo to put an end to oil theft in the region. The successful execution of the pipeline contract by our hardworking local contractors in the Niger Delta Region will lead to increase in our revenue that has nose dived due to the unwholesome activities of oil bunkering. Our security agents must beam searchlight on all those kicking against the award of the pipeline contract to Tompolo, they may have skeletons in their cupboards”, the group stated.
*As Presidential and National Assembly Campaigns set to commence September 28
A Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP in Warri North Delta State, Chief David Seikiri Ugedi has appealed to eligible voters across Warri Federal Constituency to sustain their support for the return of Hon. Chief Thomas Ereyitomi into the Federal House of Representatives in 2023.
Chief Ugedi a staunch supporter of Chief Ereyitomi political network made the appeal in a chat with Journalists in Warri, while reeling out some achievements of Hon. Ereyitomi as the member representing Warri federal constituency at the National Assembly, he urged the people especially those who believe in quality representation as replicated by Hon. Ereyitomi to come out enmasse to show solidarity when campaign begins and also translate their support to total Victory in 2023.
The Egbema born politician who also holds a Chieftaincy title of (Ebetebefiewei) of Egbema Kingdom which means “Truth speaker” of the kingdom, hailed Rep Ereyitomi for his remarkable achievements so far which has promoted the ideation of massive followership and acceptability across the three Warri LGAs of Warri South, Warri North and Warri South-West as well as other faithful with its environs.
Chief Ugedi stated further that the achievements of Hon. Ereyitomi touches all areas including Bills, healthcare, Empowerment provision of grants to the people, moving of several impactful motions for good of Warri federal constituents, provision of infrastructures for schools within his mandate area, education, provision of tricycles, Big Boats with 40hp Yamaha engines, small boats with 25hp yamaha engines and empowerment to Women on fish farming and production.
The Warri North Opuama Ward 7 grassrooted politician assured of galvanising more support for the PDP Warri Reps Candidate Chief Ereyitomi as the National Assembly and Presidential campaign begins September 28, 2022, he as well enjoined well meaning Waffarians to go collect their PVC and use it rightfully when the election is due.
A political group, Felix Otomewo and Friends aka Team Felix Otomewo has met with members of the group in the Delta North Senatorial District of the State.
Mrs. Isonguyo, in her statement with newsmen, added that the auditioning which begins this Friday September 16, 2022 is targeted to produce 50-select qualified participants who will be lucky to cross over to the next stage and after that move to the next stage where next top 10 will be camped in a 5-star hotel and trained by prominent music producers and musicologist for a week.
By: Celestine Ukah
