A former aide to former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Dr. Reno Omokri has stated that Anambra did not become number one in NECO exams because Peter Obi invested in education. Rather, the state, under Peter Obi, had become notorious as the headquarters for exam fraud in Nigeria. That was why when Peter Obi’s tenure ended in March 2014, his successor, Willie Obiano, closed down 486 exam malpractice centres in July 2014, that had been established and were flourishing under Peter Obi around the state. That was Peter’s legacy in education.
Omokri noted that, that is why Anambra gradually lost its top position in NECO after Obi’s tenure. Because succeeding governors refused to continue along those lines. For example, last year, Adamawa even outperformed Anambra. The secret was not any investment Obi was making in the education sector, because the truth is that Peter Obi was more focused on building beer breweries for Anambra than schools. The secret was the exam magic malpractice centres-Reno Omokri
Coordinator of Subsidy Palliatives Committee in Delta State, and Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Olorogun Jaro Egbo, has disclosed that the state government will soon commence another round of palliatives distribution to mitigate hardship occasioned by federal government economic reforms.
He made the disclosure on Wednesday while speaking as guest of Orientation Panorama Platform on Voice of Delta Radio 97.9FM Asaba, saying that the governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, has given specific instructions to ensure that all communities are captured, and food items distributed to those who truly need them.
Egbo, however identified high cost of transporting palliatives to riverine communities as one of the challenges, while commending governor Oborevwori for his support and commitments to ensure that despite problems of logistics the next rounds of distribution commences.
He assured that adequate publicity will be deployed through the traditional and social media before the commencement of the next round of palliatives distribution, so as to create massive awareness for the exercise.
The State Subsidy palliatives Coordinator appealed to low income earners and struggling families in the state to get ready for the state wide distribution exercise so that government deliberate and genuine efforts of ameliorating the sufferings of those adversely affected by subsidy removal can be achieved.
Egbo, disclosed that trusted and responsible stakeholders, including heads of social institutions like Churches, Mosques, Schools, and elected representatives have been appointed to monitor and coordinate the palliatives distribution in all local government areas, assuring that the state government will continue to do more for all Deltans.
He further assured that subject to regular supply of foodstuffs and availability of resources, the state government would sustain quarterly distribution of palliatives, and also working out modalities for the distribution of fertilizers, cassava stems, agricultural seedlings, and other assistance to farmers through recognized associations and cooperative societies across the state.
“Our amiable governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, is very much interested in the socioeconomic wellbeing of all Deltans.
“He promise our people more dividends of democracy, and we are working very hard to deliver on his electioneering campaigns promises.
“We distributed Palliatives previously, but the next round of distribution will soon commence. Adequate publicity shall be deployed to enable government reach target audiences.
“Our focus is on struggling families, poor widows, indigent students and all others who are truly finding it difficult to feed themselves. And we are doing just that.
“The subsidy Committee is chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, and he has directed that the Palliatives must get to the right people, at the right time, and across the 25 local government areas.
“As the state coordinator, am networking with all local government coordinators of the committee to ensure that our people benefit reasonably from the exercise.”
Following the intervention and appeals from the trio of Senators Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (Delta South), Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) and Ned Nwoko (Delta North) to the Defence Headquarters yesterday, the detained traditional ruler of Ewu-Urhobo kingdom, His Majesty, Clement Oghenerukevwe Ikolo, Urhukpe 1 in Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state over Okuama deaths was released this morning.
The Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Defence, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, has said that it is his earnest desire to see that peace returns to the troubled Okuama Community, Ughelli South Local Government Area and others affected as a result of the killing of 17 officers and soldiers in Delta State.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo, representing Delta South in the red chambers, made the disclosure while fielding questions from journalists in Warri on the reason himself and two other Senators from Delta State, Senator Ned Nwoko and Senate Ede Dafinone, visited the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja, recently.
He said that they were at the Defence Headquarters to appeal for the release of the detained traditional ruler of Ewu-Urhobo kingdom, His Majesty, Clement Oghenerukevwe Ikolo, Urhukpe 1 in Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state over Okuama deaths.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo, an astute administrator and financial guru, stated that apart from appealing for the release of the Monarch during the visit, other issues relating to how peace would be restored for the return of members of the community who fled in the wake of the incident were also discussed.
He added that they were saddened by the killing of the soldiers in Okuama community, noting that the incident no doubt has truncated the peace in the community and the state in general, hence the need for all stakeholders to work expediently towards ensuring that peace return to the area.
Senator Joel Onowakpo Thomas
“W are all worried, Deltans and Nigerians are worried over the development in Okuama and environs. We have condemned, sympathized and expressed concerns. We have also condoled with the military and families of those that died as a result of the unfortunate incident.”
” It is time to make peace and it must be holistic. Whatever that will bring about permanent peace in the community, Delta State and Nigeria in general is what we stand for. It is my desire to see that peace returns to the troubled area as soon as possible. I wish to use this medium to appeal to all those involved in the peace process to expedite action to see that peace is restored.”
” One thing we must known is that no community, state or nation progresses in crisis situation. Therefore we must all embrace peace to enthrone development in our communities.”
” I wish to also use this medium to express appreciation to my colleagues in the senate from Delta State Senator Ned Nwoko, Delta North and Senator Ede Dafinone, Delta Central for the understanding and love they have demonstrated. Peace and development does not discriminate. We must ensure we continue to work for the overall interest of our people in spite of our political divide.”
While calling for calm and the release of the detained monarch, he restated the importance of avoiding all forms of crisis that may lead to the killing of security officers in the state, saying that no society thrives under crisis situation.
It would be recalled that the detained monarch was among the eight persons declared wanted by the military authorities for their alleged involvement in the March 14 tragic incident at Okuama, Ughelli South Local Government Area.
The monarch had surrendered himself to the police in Delta state before he was transferred to the military, where he has been detained after being declared wanted.
As part of its corporate social responsibilities and development of its host communities,
NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC) today April 16, 2024, commissioned and handed over two blocks of twenty (20) lock-up shops to Ugbokodo Community, Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State.
In an address presented at the ceremony, the Managing Director of Nigerian Gas Infrastructure Company Limited, (NGIC) Engr. Seyi Omotowa, who officially commissioned the project, it was their desire to continue to have a smooth working relationship with host communities.
Represented on the occasion by the Executive Director, Business Services, Mr. Kazachiyang Nuhu, Engr. Omotowa noted that,NGIC is a socially responsible organisation whose community relations philosophy views the host communities as partners with the desire that they buy into her business opportunities.
“As a Gas Transportation Company with a vision to support the economic growth of Nigeria, our gas pipelines infrastructure network traverses over 2,500km across over 350 host communities in 11 States of the Federation.
“Nonetheless, as a responsible and responsive Company, we remain committed to developing robust and sustainable relationship with our host communities. Their wellbeing is paramount in our Corporate Social Responsibility thrust, and this is simply why we are here today.
“Therefore, we present to you this two blocks of twenty lock-up shops as a token of our contribution to the development of this community which we cherish dearly as one of our peace-loving communities.”
He solicited the cooperation and assistance of the Community in the maintenance of peace in order to support the business growth and aspirations for the benefit of the people of Ugbokodo Community and Nigerians generally.
Lockup Shops
While noting that NGIC will always encourage and appreciate communities that promote peace, dialogue and understanding in the resolution of any issue, he urged the people of Ugbokodo Community to safeguard the project by putting in place adequate security measures to protect it.
The Chairman of Ugbokodo Community, Christopher Ofoye appreciated NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited & NGIC for commissioning the project in the land and for the gesture on their performance of social responsibility.
He said,”NNPC Gas Infrastructure is indeed, a friend to Ugbokodo Community with human meekness compared to other oil companies exploiting us.”
He highlighted NGIC contributions to Ugbokodo Community to include but not limited to, Novel Skill Acquisition, Training and Empowerment, Construction and Donation of 4 classroom blocks, Local contracts to indigenous contractors (Messrs Bizfactors, Brujomah, Odu-Terry Tech, Abidan and Sons, M. Ugbokodo and sons, Philswena International etc.
He urged other companies operating in the area to emulate NGIC by doing the needful for good relationship.
Ofoye also appealed that the NNPC-NGIC should endeavour to complete the remaining market project based on it’s already submitted architectural drawings, consider their denied slots in body-shops recruitment and engagement of their graduates in Young Professional (YP) programme of NGIC and to inaugurate the Petroleum Industry Act(PIA) team with NGIC Management as host community.
Ofoye also assured NGIC that the people of Ugbokodo Community will put the market to good use as maintained same for the economic purpose for which it is built and donated.
He said, “Ugbokodo Community will continually maintain and enhance the existing cordial robust relationship with NGIC as a host community to be reckoned with while counting on our assurances.”
Present at the event were Mrs. Victoria Nwakuche
Manager, Corporate Communications Department, NGIC, the Acting Chairman of Okpe Local Government Council, Mr. John Ofofo, Mr. Phillip Ukeredi, Ugbokodo Community Youth President, Pharm. Goodluck Etieyibo, Conference Chairman, Chief Dele Ugbokodo,representative of the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Chief Clifford Ikpikpini and his wife, amongst others.
The Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mr Bello Mohammed Koko, has been accused of bribing investigating officers of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to cover up his multi-billion naira money laundering case, according to an internal memo sent to the office of the Chairman of the EFCC.
EFCC
According to a leaked memo intercepted, with Reference Number, 4089/EFCC/D.INT/IA/11/014/2021/009 from the office of the Director of Intelligence and dated 16 August, 2021, disclosed that “a source close to the investigation claimed that huge amounts in bribes were paid for the case to be quashed” citing a newspaper publication.
The memo subject titled, “Forwarding of Interim Intelligence Report on Mohammed Bello Koko,” disclosed that ,”The Department of Intelligence had upon receipt of actionable intelligence that the acting Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA): Mohammed Bello Koko was involved in receiving kickback from NPA contractors and other money laundering activities carried out a financial profiling of the said subject and his close associate: Ali Amin Abubakar.”
The memo also states that Bello Koko was prior to his appointment, the ED Finance and Accounts in NPA from 2005 to 2015. “He was also the designated account officer for Rivers State Government up till 2015, while in the employ of Zenith Bank in Rivers State. He and Ali Amin Abubakar are both directors in M.B.K Business Consults and Cethes Co.
According to the memo, “Detailed analysis of his accounts revealed that for the period under review, he received payment in cash and transfers from individuals companies and self-cash deposits amounting to N829, 525,858.13.
“It is significant to note that the subject had received over N60 million from Ali Amin Abubakar and his company: Conspec Engineering that had benefitted awards of contracts amounting to about N1.107.654.133 from the Rivers State Government.
“Similarly, another of Ali Amin’s company: Schwartz Construction Co. Ltd had benefitted awards of contracts amounting to N1 833.173.724,600 from Rivers State Government and contracts amounting to N349.571.285.27 from the Nigerian Ports Authority.
“Also, one Devsol Development Ltd, which had benefitted award(s) of contracts amounting to N5,000.000 from NPA had received monies totaling about N193.385,500 from Ali Amin Abubakar. Consequently, the foregoing strongly infers the subject’s and associates’ complicity in acts of Abuse of Office misappropriation of Public Funds, Fraud and Money Laundering.
“Schwartz Construction Co. and Devsol Development limited are linked to contracts with NPA, while Conspec Engineering is linked to contracts with the Rivers State Government.
“Ali Amin is also linked to Mohammed Koko through financial transactions, Mohammed Koko received a total sum of N54,644,377.00 (Fifty Four Million Six Hundred And Forty Four Thousand Three Hundred And Seventy Seven Naira) for the period Of review.
“Ali Amin Abubakar’s Zenith bank account No. 2001819315 hod inflow of N1,371,756,269.40 One Billion Three Hundred and Seventy One Million, Seven Hundred and Fifty Six Thousand, Two Hundred and Sixty Nine Naira and Forty Kobo) from individuals, companies and Cash deposits by self between January, 2015 and June 2021.
“In view of the findings, It is therefore assessed with a high degree of confidence that Mohammed Bello Koko during his tenure as an Executive Director, Finance & Administration of the NPA influenced contract award to DEVSOL and Schwartz Construction Co. companies linked to Ali Amin Abubakar, and also received kickbacks from NPA contractors. It is also highly likely that Ali Amin Abubakar was instrumental in the siphoning of Rivers State Government coffers through award of contracts to his companies between 2007 and 2015 for the benefit of state government officials (former Governor).
The memo recommended that the Operations Department carries out an in depth investigation into the activities of the subject and his associates in line with the recommendations in the attached Interim Intelligence Report.
While this medium is yet to determine the rationale behind the stalling of the investigation which the memo states,” Information from the EFCC database indicates that no ongoing investigation on Mohammed Bello-Koko and Ali Amin Abubakar”, efforts are being intensified to get more details on the matter and more details will be published as the story unveils.
Deltans and Nigerians at large have been called upon to invest in the first digitalized resort city in African located in Aba Unor, Ogwashi Uku, Delta State developed and managed by MitoTech Solution limited
The Senior Special Assistant to the Delta State Governor on Entertainment, Dr. Frank Otoide popular known as Frank de Don made the call when the company unveiled him as its brand ambassador.
In his remark, Frank de Don expressed appreciation to the CEO of Mito Tech Solutions Limited for his smart vision of locating the resort city in Delta State with a view to contributing to the socioeconomic development of the state in line with the more agenda of the governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
The entertainment icon said Mito Tech Solutions is a people oriented company because its estate is one of the most affordable which would facilitate deltans and indeed Nigerians to becoming landlords within a short period of time in an attractive environment
The CEO of Mito Tech Solutions Limited, Mr. Joseph Idele said the choice of Delta state for the digitalized resort city and Frank de Don as one of the company’s ambassadors was born out of the fact that Delta is a state with thriving tourism potentials
Mr Idele said the over 500 hectares estate was a smart city with digital installations designed to make developments in the estate seen real time by anyone, anywhere in the world while urging investors to key into this first of a kind estate.
The CEO also mentioned that a golf course, theme park and other resort attractions were being developed in the estate. He emphasised that with as low as ten thousand naira, even the low income earners could own units in parts of the estate and earn monthly return on investment or gradually become land owners in a part of the estate.
Mr Idele said the ten thousand naira investment initiative was a vision of the company to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor in their estates.
Highpoints of the occasion was the signing of agreement between MitoTech Solution Limited and its brand ambassador in Delta State Dr. Frank Otoide popularly known as Frank de Don.
LATE GOV. ROTIMI AKEREDOLU’S YOUNGER BROTHER, PROF. WOLE AKEREDOKU TAKES OVER WIDOW BETTY AKEREDOLU
Each tribe in Nigeria has its traditions and culture when it comes to the posterity of widows. Among the Ukwuani people of Delta State, it is called Ibulu-uzo; a situation whereby a widow is repossessed and retained by one of the siblings of the deceased in the same family. In a case whereby there is no surviving or willing sibling, a willing extended relative; uncle, cousin or nephew can repossess and retain the widow provided the required rites are performed. In Imo state, they have a unique culture and tradition they adopted when it comes to the death of a spouse. A few days ago, the family of the widow of the former Governor of Ondo State, Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu, Mrs Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu performed Mgbafu Mkpe on her and she was repossessed.
The repossession celebration took place at the Emeabiam Community in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State. Where the Anyanwu family decided to hand over their daughter to the younger brother of Aketi, Wole Akeredolu.
Held on Sunday, March 31, 2024, in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, the First Lady posted photos of the ceremony on her Instagram handle, where the Umuegeolu kindred handed her over to her late husband’s immediate younger brother, Professor Wole Akeredolu.
The handover back to the Akeredolus was the climax of the ceremony. This was after the Akeredolus had indicated interest in still having Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the Ada Owere 1 in their family after the demise of her husband.
Before the handover, the Akeredolus had presented kolanuts, palm wine and she-goat to the Umuegeolu kindred including food to the Anyanwus as tradition demands.
Responding on behalf of the Akeredolus, Prof Wole Akeredolu expressed gratitude to the family, the Umuegeolu kindred and the entire Emeabiam Community for their hospitality. He formally informed them of the demise of his elder brother and their in-law who had since been buried. He pledged to continue to cater and care for their wife, Betty.
He also thanked all those who were in Ibadan Oyo State to commiserate with the Akeredolu family and the ones who were in Owo to witness the interment of Gov Akeredolu’s remains on February 23, 2024.
The former first lady, who was clad in a black gown with a touch of white stripes and dark sun shade, signalling that the mourning period was not yet over did not respond after the ceremony. Present at the ceremony were Umuegeolu family members, Nde Mgboto Emeabiamn (Daughters of the soil) and Oha n’Ikoro Emeabiam(Elders Council).
Mgbafu Mkpe is a traditional Igbo ceremony performed shortly after the demise and burial of a woman’s husband in Igbo land. The family of the woman’s husband would indicate interest in still having the widow live with them or not. Upon saying yes, the in-laws would hand over the widow back to the husband’s family after performing some rituals. Should the husband’s family say no, certain rituals are also conducted to free the woman from her husband’s family.
The former first lady, who was clad in a black gown with a touch of white stripes and dark sun shade, signalling that the mourning period was not yet over did not respond after the ceremony. Present at the ceremony were Umuegeolu family members, Nde Mgboto Emeabiam(Daughters of the soil) and Oha n’Ikoro Emeabiam(Elders Council). Mgbafu Mkpe is a traditional Igbo ceremony performed shortly after the demise and burial of a woman’s husband in Igbo land.
The family of the woman’s husband would indicate interest in still having the widow live with them or not. Upon saying yes, the in-laws would hand over the widow back to the husband’s family after performing some rituals. Should the husband’s family say no, certain rituals are also conducted to free the woman from her husband’s family.
Late Gov. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu fondly called Aketi, died in December 2023 after battling cancer. He was buried in February 2024. Weeks after his burial, his Owerri in-laws performed the traditional Mgbafu Mkpe ceremony of Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, his widow.
The State Co-ordinator of Delta Covid-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (D-CARES) programme, Lady Dr. Patience Ogbewe commended the six Technical Heads implementing the program across the state for their exceptional performance at the 3rd Independent Verification Assessment (IVA) exercise by World Bank.
Lady Ogbewe who is also the Secretary of the State CARES Steering Committee(SCSC) gave the commendation when debriefing the THs on the outcome of the NG- CARES Technical meeting with Chairmen of States CARES Steering Committee and State Coordinators of the program recently held in Abuja.
The Delta State Commissioner, Ministry of Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen was also in attendance.
Dr. Ogbewe thanked His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborewori for the immense support given to them within this period, saying the Governor has truly shown that he wants to do MORE for Deltans.
She appreciated the Technical Heads for their result oriented commitment and strategic approach to program implementation that had enabled the State to provide succour to over 46,000 Deltans as validated by the World Bank in the last IVA exercise which is the 3rd in the series.
Lady Dr. Patience Ogbewe
The seasoned International Development Expert encouraged the THs not to rest on their oars as the State Government expects them to continue to achieve more result for the overall benefits of Deltans.
On their parts, the Heads of the delivery platforms thanked the State Co-ordinator for her sterling leadership qualities which had motivated them to always give their best at all times while promising to consolidate and improve on the achievement thus far.
With determination to achieve the overall objective of ensuring universal health coverage, the Delta State government has underscored the necessity of increasing enrollment in the health insurance scheme across the State.
The Director-General of Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC), Olorogun Dr Isaac Akpoveta, made the call on the occasion of the Flag-Off/Distribution of Health Insurance Cards to the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative Adoptees of the Oganihu Umu Ogbekenu Foundation in Onicha-Olona Community on Monday April 1st, 2024, in Aniocha North LGA Of Delta State.
While saying the DSCHC is determined to increase the number of enrollees from its currrent figure of over two million, Dr. Akpoveta noted that he was immensely delighted to stand before the community to celebrate the remarkable generosity and compassion of the Oganihu Umu Ogbekenu Foundation.
“The adoption and purchase of health insurance for 100 vulnerable individuals in your community is not just an act of charity; it is a demonstration of profound empathy and a tangible commitment to the well-being of our people”, he added.
The DG asserted that “the Indigent Enrollee Adoption Initiative, pioneered by the DSCHC, aims to ensure that every resident, regardless of their socio-economic and political status, has access to quality healthcare. It is heartening to see the spirit of solidarity and community support exemplified by this foundation, whose noble gesture will provide essential health coverage for those who need it most. With just N7000 per person you can purchase our health insurance premium for your neighbor, which will enable them to access quality health care for a whole year. This is exactly what the Oganihu Umu Ogbekenu Foundation has just done, and the reason we are here today”.
“Healthcare should not be a luxury reserved for the privileged few; it is a fundamental human right that must be guaranteed to all. By stepping forward to adopt enrollees and purchase health insurance for the vulnerable members of your community, this foundation has demonstrated a profound understanding of this principle and shown us the power of collective action in creating positive change.”
Still in his speech, he disclosed that enrollees of the scheme have access to treatment of over 80 percent of prevailing ailments including malaria, diabetes, hypertension, cough, catarrh, among others with surgeries where necessary. Dr. Akpoveta thereby charged the public, particularly well-to-do Deltans, to be inspired by the selflessness and dedication of the Foundation by also sponsoring vulnerable people in their community.
“Let us all take up the mantle of responsibility and join hands in supporting our fellow community members who are in need. Whether through philanthropic initiatives, volunteering, or advocacy, there are countless ways in which we can contribute to the well-being of those around us”.
“Together, we can build a more inclusive and compassionate society where everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy and dignified life. Let us seize this moment as a call to action, a reminder that our collective strength lies in our ability to care for one another and uplift those who are less fortunate. This is what the M.0.R.E. Agenda of the Oborevwori administration stands for. Think M.O.R.E. And do M.O.R.E for your neighbor.” The DG of DSCHC asserted while addressing Onicha-Olona people.
Dr. Akpoveta noted that the journey towards ensuring the most Vulnerable members of our society have access to quality healthcare is a testament to DSCHC’s unwavering commitment to leaving no one behind in the pursuit of universal healthcare coverage in Delta State.
“As you have seen today the indigent enrollee adoption initiative underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing healthcare disparities. Through this initiative, we aim to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage to indigent individuals, thereby improving their health outcomes and promoting social equity within our communities”, he stated.
The Director-General of Oganihu Umu Ogbukene Foundation, commended the Dr Akpoveta and his team for enrolling their Enrollees and coming to distribute the Health Insurance Card to their Vulnerable Individuals within a short time.
He noted that despite the tight schedules of Dr Akpoveta and the time typically reserved for celebrating Easter with his family,, he opted to come to Onicha-Olona to enroll his people into the Health Insurance scheme and also carry out a sensization campaign, on the benefits of health insurance, for the community.
The highlights of the program were the distribution of cards to Enrollees, sensitization and conferment/ presentation of plaque of honour as Health Insurance Ambassador of Delta State to the Directorship of the Oganihu Umu Ogbukene Foundation.
Former Governor of Delta State and the Vice Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election, Sen Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, has reiterated his support for Dr Asue Ighodalo, the party’s candidate for the September governorship election in Edo State.
Dr. Asue Ighodalo and Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa
Okowa, known for his steadfast loyalty to the PDP, was full of praise for Ighodalo, saying that he was sure the lawyer, businessman and politician will provide the right leadership for Edo State.
He stated this on Monday when he welcomed the gubernatorial hopeful on a courtesy visit at his Owa Alero country home, Delta State.
Okowa, who described Ighodalo as a “foremost lawyer and investment banker,” said “I have high regard for Dr Asue Ighodalo’s capabilities and vision for Edo State. I believe he will provide innovative, competent, cost-effective and well-timed solutions that will help boost the economy of the state,” a source at the meeting confided in our Correspondent.
The source went on to describe Ighodalo as a “complete gentleman who is friendly, warm, social and lively. He doesn’t erect those barriers between big men and small men. He interacts with you at your level.”
Confirming the visit on his own FB page, Dr Ighodalo wrote : “What a heartwarming end to the Easter weekend! I was deeply touched by the warmth and brotherhood extended to me by the immediate past Governor of Delta State, His Excellency Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, who graciously opened his home to me. I am thankful for the time spent together – a true reflection of the bond shared historically between the peoples of Edo and Delta States.
“Thank you for your hospitality and wise counsel, Your Excellency; they made the visit so much more enriching.”
