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.

Akwa Ibom Governor Eno, Hails Super Eagles Historic Victory over Rwanda

Super Eagles chief host in Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe, Governor Umo Eno has commended the superlative showing by the Nigerians against Rwanda Friday March 21 at the Amahoro stadium in Kigali.

“The Akwa Ibom State Governor in a goodwill message said “we know how crucial the match was, given our not too impressive showing in the past.

“We needed this victory to get our qualification back on track and the boys responded positively. The task was daunting, a packed crowd of Rwandan supporters yet the can do spirit of the Nigerians prevailed sending victory songs back home from Sokoto to Uyo.

“On Tuesday in Uyo against Zimbabwe, we will come out en mass to give them the necessary support to excel again“ he said.

The ThisDay Governor of the year has asked Akwa Ibomites in particular and Nigerians in general to come out in their numbers, appropriately attired in the country’s colours of green and white to cheer the Super Eagles of Nigeria with their vocal support.

“The Godswill Akpabio Stadium Uyo is reputed to be a slaughter house for opponents of the Eagles and Tuesday will not be an exception“ the sports loving governor said.

“The victory has catapulted Nigeria to fourth position with 6 points, four points behind group leaders South Africa after five round of matches.

Victory on Tuesday in Uyo will further brighten their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

PAP Boss, Otuaro has shown consistent commitment to reintegrating Ex-Agitators, Promoting sustainable peace in Niger Delta- Chief Napoleon Iffie

**Says Tantita Security Services has boosted crude oil protection, increasing FG, States Government Revenue generation

By: Celestine Ukah 

The National Coordinator of the Advocacy for Peace and Community Development, APCD, Chief Napoleon Iffie, says the Presidential Amnesty Coordinator, PAP, Dr. Dennis Otuaro has shown consistent commitment towards reintegrating Ex-Agitators and promoting sustainable peace in the Niger Delta.

Chief Iffie, made the declaration at Okudiemo in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, Friday March 21, during a press briefing.

He refuted allegations against Dr. Dennis Otuaro and Tompolo’s Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, by setting the records straight.

The APCD National Coordinator, was represented at the briefing by the Delta State Convener, APCD, Priest Benson Otomiewo.

Chief Iffie, noted: “We however taken aback with the recent accusations by certain groups, including ex-agitators, alleged misappropriation of funds, non-inclusiveness and selective administration. As these claims are not only baseless, untrue and malicious, but also appear to be calculated attempts to tarnish the hard-earned reputation of Dr Otuaro and derail the ongoing efforts to consolidate peace in the region.

“It is crucial to understand that Dr. Otuaro’s administration has prioritized transparency, accountability and inclusiveness, ensuring that the benefits of the Amnesty Programme reach the intended beneficiaries. The PAP has provided vocational training, educational scholarships and economic empowerment initiatives to thousands of ex-agitators and their dependents, all of which have helped to promote stability and progress in the Niger Delta.

“Furthermore, the allegations of misappropriation are speculative and not grounded in verified evidence. We urge those making these accusations to present concrete proof rather than relying on false narratives to mislead the public. Dr. Otuaro remains committed to his duty and will continue to work for the sustainable peace and development of the Niger Delta.

“Addressing Allegations Against Tantita Security Nigeria Limited

“Similarly, allegations against Tantita Security Nigeria Limited — a key partner in securing Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure — are equally misleading. Tantita has played a pivotal role in curbing oil theft, protecting national assets, and boosting government revenue. The claim that Tantita receives ?40 billion monthly for its pipeline surveillance operations is false. The actual contract awarded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) in August 2022 can be verified by all at NNPCL website.

“It is an established truth that Tantita Security Services is over stretched, as they carry out both land and coastal security, even beyond the official mandate and scope of work.

“Reports of human rights violations attributed to Tantita are unverified and have been discredited by various independent fact-finding committees. These allegations are often propagated by those who stand to lose from the progress made in combating oil theft.

Exposing the Agenda of Detractors

“It is evident that certain individuals and groups who previously exploited Nigeria’s resources for personal gain are uncomfortable with the impactful measures implemented by Dr. Dennis Otuaro’s leadership of the Amnesty Programme and the collaborative efforts of Tantita in securing national assets. Their tactics—using false accusations and orchestrated protests—are meant to create confusion, disrupt stability, and undermine credible efforts toward development.

“The Advocacy for Peace and Community Development (APCD) unequivocally stands with Dr. Dennis Otuaro and Tantita Security Nigeria Limited. We urge well-meaning Nigerians to see through these deceptive tactics and support genuine efforts to protect our national interests. Nigeria’s progress in securing its oil resources and maintaining peace in the Niger Delta should not be compromised by baseless accusations and selfish agenda.

“Finally, we use this opportunity to congratulate Dr. Dennis Otuaro on his one year in office and wish him more result-oriented years ahead”.

Hon. Lucky Godspower Ekiapilo, Secretary, APCD, Benson Iteke, Comrade Terry Moses, Hon. Moses God’spower Ekiapilo Sapilo, Davies Amrevurayire, Comrade Daniel Iriri and other community members, were present during the media parley.

PIA: Multisub Energy commissions furnished classrooms block, 70 Solar Street lights in Delta Host Communities

**NUPRC, WNLGC, Boss, Ashima commend Company

By: Celestine Ukah 

An Indigenous Oil and Gas exploration and production company,
Multisub Energy Limited in Implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA, has commissioned completed furnished 50 students desks, other educational learning facilities at Abokunwa Primary School in Eghoro Community, Warri North LGA, Delta State.

Other projects commissioned at Eghoro include a 120-meter walkway in order to improve access to quality education in the area

In his remarks at the event which held Thursday March 20, Chairman and Managing Director of Multisub Energy Limited, Dr. Igho Okotete described the commissioning of the inaugural projects of Olure Host Communities’ Development Trust, OHCDT as inspiring to see how far the Olure Host Communities’ Development Trust has come in such a short time since the inauguration of the Board of Trustees on 5th of July 2024 and subsequently the inauguration of Management and Advisory Committees respectively.

He Stressed that commissioning the
first set of projects by the Olure Host Communities Development Trust is a testament to their dedication and diligence in handling the affairs of the stakeholders.

Dr. Okotete who was represented by
the Executive Director Strategy & Planning, Mr Tega Okotete noted that the quick impact projects being commissioned addressed critical needs in their host communities.

Mr. Tega Okotete pointed out that Multisub Energy Limited has also installed seventy 70 solar-powered streetlights to light up Ikeyan and
Safa/Ogbin bloc of communities at night.

Here’s the remarks of the Chairman /Managing Director Dr. Okotete as read by the Executive Director Strategy & Planning, Mr. Tega Okotete it read thus: “The Multisub Energy Limited is an indigenous oil and gas exploration and production company,!operating the Olure Field, PPL – 218. But beyond business operations, we are committed to making meaningful impact in the communities where we operate through job creation, capacity building and the funding for the implementation of the Olure Host Communities Development Trust
(OHCDT).

“These projects are a product of collaboration, and I would like to commend the Multisub Team, the Olure HCDT Team and our host communities, for their dedication in ensuring the success of these initiatives.

“We deeply appreciate the Warri North Local Government and the NUPRC for their unwavering partnership and support in facilitating our development efforts.

“Development is a collective effort, and I am proud of the work we have done so far.

“We will continue to partner with all our stakeholders to execute impactful projects and build a future where our communities thrive.” The Chairman/MD stated.

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, NUPRC, Commission Chief Executive, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe appreciated Multisub Energy Limited for the epoch making event which signifies that the company and its host communities are working in harmony leading to the laudable projects being executed and commissioned.

Engr. Komolafe was represented by the Head Warri Regional Office, NUPRC, Chief Amb. Ogunnubi Olusegun Benjamin whose goodwill message was delivered on his behalf by Manager HSE/C, Mrs. Akpojisheri Felicia, added that the projects inaugurated are more than physical project as it is a beacon of hope and symbol of progress.

She urged the company and its host communities to continue to collaborate in order to operate in a peaceful and secure environment, even as she assured Multisub Energy of NUPRC’s support.

Chairman of Warri North LGA, Hon. Festus Ashima who was the Special Guest of Honour commended Multisub Energy Limited for their commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainable development in Warri North LGA, describing the projects commissioned as testament to companies dedication to improving lives of the people.

Hon. Ashima hailed Multisub Energy Limited for partnering with Warri North Council in identifying and addressing the pressing needs of the people, saying the collaboration demonstrates the power of collective effort, driving meaningful development and progress.

The Warri North Council Boss, charged host communities and beneficiaries to take ownership of the projects and ensure their maintenance and utilisation.

Hon. Ashima assured Multisub Energy Limited of peaceful environment, encouraging them to attract more investment to the LGA as the area is safe for investors.

The Secretary Eghoro Community Elders Council, Pa. Jonathan Ireye, Chairman Safa Ogbin Bloc communities, Chief Amb. Moses Donyebi, Councillor Representing Eghoro Ward in Warri North, Hon. Friday Oyibo, Head Teacher of Abokunwa Primary School, Ovie Eruewu and others commended Multisub Energy Limited for the projects.

Other members of Multisub Team present at the event include the General Manager Administration and CSR Akagbosu Thomas, Mike Erhirhi, Madonna Iloba and Chris Ashima as well as Manager NUPRC Warri Regional Office, Mohammed Kabiru Kaura.