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TENSION IN DELTA COMMUNITIES OVER LAND GRABBING

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By Nneka Glory Nwachukwu

Atuma-Iga and Akwukwu-Igbo are two communities sharing the same political Ward in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State that have not known peace for some time now following alleged land grabbing and disagreements.

The obnoxious chapter in the homeland of one time Attorney General of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Late Chief Michael Agbamuche, SAN), was sacrilegious and like the height of infamy.

The people of Akwukwu-Igbo, which is the headquarters of Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria, also known as the “Land of Desert Warriors”, have accused the Obi of Atuma-Iga of sponsoring some of his subjects of grabbing their lands.

They made the allegation in a protest today at the site of the lands where crops were destroyed.

Akwukwu-Igbo people, led by Chief Chibuzor Mokeme, Community head of Akwukwu Igbo,  alleged that His Royal Majesty, Obi Daniel Chukwuma Ogbudo, the Obi of Atuma-Iga, was behind the land grabbing and farm destruction in Akwukwu-Igbo.

They alleged that Obi Ogbudo and his people used the police and military personnel from the Brigade Command to intimidate them.

According to the protesting Akwu-kwu-Igbo people, “Atuma-Iga people wrote to deceive the police into giving them back up and coverage until the police discovered the truth and withdrew their men from the disputed lands.

“With the influence of Chief Fred Ajudua, some military personnel  came into Akwukwu-Igbo land yesterday Thursday, 23 February, 2023, and they are still there to destroy economic trees and crops of inhabitants and farmers in Akwukwu-Igbo.

“The main occupation of our locals are mainly farming and fishing so how do we survive when our produce are being destroyed”.

Our reporter gathered that the disputed land in question is in Ogbe-Iyase quarter of Akwukwu-Igbo.

Regardless the protesters appealed to governor Ifeanyi  Okowa of Delta state to call the Obi of Atuma-Iga and Chief Fred Ajudua to order. Claiming that the Obi and his people are calling for communal crisis in the peaceful local government area.

In a telephone call to DSP Bright Edafe, Police Public Ralation Officer of the State Police Command, to ascertain the knowledge of the police on the allegations against the Obi of Atuma-Iga, his subjects and Chief Fred Ajudua, he said he was not aware of any land grabbing crisis there but I should do him an sms to reach out to the Divisional Police Officer at Akwukwu-Igbo.

According to Edafe “Police gives protection and coverage to all persons so they cannot protect Atuma-Iga people against Akwukwu-Igbo. The Divisional Police Headquarters at Akwukwu-Igbo serves the whole Oshimili North. Besides, we do not really have the manpower for that now as our focus is mainly on the Saturday elections. That allegation seems baseless but do me an sms to me for me to forward to the DPO for confirmation.

All efforts to reach HRM Obi Daniel Chukwuma Ogbudo, the Obi of Atuma-Iga through a visit to his Palace and his phone number 08X3 677 XXXX for his side of the story yielded no results as calls and sms were not responded to.

VOTERS EDUCATION: NOA PAYS ADVOCACY VISIT TO NUJ …REAFFIRMS PARTNERSHIP IN SENSITIZATION TOWARDS CREDIBLE ELECTIONS

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By Cmr. Wilbet Ijeoma

The Delta State Directorate of National Orientation Agency led by the State Director, Mr. Chris Anyabuine with his team paid advocacy visit to NUJ Delta State Council today 23rd February 2023 barely two day to the Presidential election in view of reaffirming their partnership in voters education, sensitization and mass mobilization towards achieving a free, fair and credible elections in Nigeria.

The statement of purpose for the visit was made clear by NOA State Director who in the first hand thanked the NUJ Chairman, Cmr. Michael Ikeogwu for receiving him and his team, while congratulating the Chairman on behalf of the Council for the brand new and befitting Press Centre and commending him for the effort towards bringing the project to fruition.

Speaking further, the NOA Delta State Director affirmed that the purpose for the visit is in furtherance to strengthening NOA’s partnership with NUJ, while emphasizing that the mandate of NOA is to enlighten the masses on government’s activities, policies and programmes, as well as positively change attitude to achieve socio-economic benefits. “Our mandate is similar to that of NUJ”; Anyabuine affirmed, as we thanked NUJ for continued and sustained support to NOA towards achieving its mandate.

On voters education, Anyabuine emphasized the need to sensitize the masses adequately so as to know how to vote and conduct themselves before and during elections. In quick specifics, the Delta State NOA Director highlighted his message which are; Come out to vote; shun voters’ apathy, Say no to vote buying and selling, Say no to election violence, Campaign ends 24hrs to election, Do not solicit for votes at polling units and Say no to void votes.

Emphasizing on how voters should conducts themselves during election, Anyabuine said that voters are not supposed to wear vest or shirts with party symbol during election as that is in violation to the Electoral Act. Furthermore, he gave insight on how not to vote by highlighting that after thumb-printing, the ballot ought to be folded outwards and not inwards to avoid multiple impression and void vote.

Reacting to the visit, the Chairman of NUJ Delta State Council, Cmr. Michael Ikeogwu thanked the State Director and his team for the timely visits preparatory to the general elections. The Chairman reaffirmed the importance of media to electioneering processes while commending NOA for their sensitization programmes. Ikeogwu decried the state Nigerians find themselves today and charged the masses to rise and take a decision for a change. “As history beckons, we have to take responsibility to save ourselves from the quagmire we find ourselves today; we must rise as a people to take decision so as to make Nigeria rise from where we are today to where we are supposed to be”; Ikeogwu submitted while thanking NOA for the timely visits.

Others present in the event were the Secretary of NUJ Delta State Council Cmr. Patrick Ochei, Vice Chairman Cmr. Salvation Ogolo, State Auditor Cmr. Celestine Afokobah, Ex Officio Cmr. Ejime Udueme, Secretary NAWOJ Delta State Cmr. Tracy Ikolomi with members of NOA team, among others.

2023: Tinubu’s Bestowed With Extraordinary Quality That No Other Candidate Possess – Group

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Bola Tinubu

The Renewed Hope mantra of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presidential ambition has continued to resonate across the South-South region of Nigeria with springs of canvassers wooing voters for the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Sustaining the intensity of their campaigns, a group, South-South Movement for Tinubu/Shettima Ticket (SSMTS) in a press briefing of journalists and media organizations in Delta state, reiterated why Nigerians should overwhelmingly vote for the APC’s presidential candidate.

The group led by its National Coordinator, Eyengho Samuel Besidone, recounted the antecedents of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as governor of Lagos state while juxtaposing his candidature and prospects for Nigerians with that of his opponents.

While noting the group’s success in pushing Tinubu’s ambition within the South-South states, Eyengho said, “we hope that our people are well convinced with the assurances that our principal is bestowed with, that extraordinary quality that no other candidate possess, something more than learning, more than practice, something more than mere training, and that is the resilience that has kept him over the decades of successful team building, capacity and the carriage that is rare amongst the average Nigeria political class”.

Parts of the group’s supporting statements why more Nigerians should turn up enmasse to cast their votes for Bola Ahmed Tinubu, read below.

1. Our principal has transversed the length and breadth of the Nigerian state and in some cases twice and thrice as the case may be with his idea of a Renewed hope, all through the electioneering campaign period, he has spoken to the heart of Nigerians what he has in the offing. In return, the acceptance is overwhelming as can be seen with the huge crowd of party supporters, and electorates as well as large numbers of decampees from opposition political parties who troop out in countless numbers to identify with him whenever he arrives at the campaign venues each state he visited.

2. The indices are high, and we are convinced he will win on the first ballot:

a. Considering his antecedent of embedding sustainable development as a former Governor of Lagos.

b. The APC has structures in all 36 states.

c. The show of capacity thus far by the 22 APC governors who are irrevocably committed to the Tinubu/Shettima Tickets especially those from the Northern extraction of the country.

d. Additionally, even some of the PDP Governors particularly the aggrieved G5 governors , who were betrayed, mocked and as such have exhibited genuineness in their quest for equity and the unity of the Nigeria State specifically Rivers, Oyo, Abia etc.

e. Furthermore, while traversing the nook and crannies of the country, our principal has been able to convince Nigerians that modern-day infrastructural development and sustainable policies, especially on Education, security, economy, social, IGR, tourism, transport, commerce, information Technology to mention a few, of Lagos state can be replicated across the Nigeria State.

The reason all sitting and formal governors of the 36 states of Nigeria have properties and mansions in Lagos including his contenders in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour party (LP).

Had Asiwaju not developed and established the Lagos master plan and consistently ensure it is followed to the later by all successive governments after him, these politicians would not have seen Lagos as their haven. We would love to put before the opposition parties, why have the home state of Adamawa and Anambra not been so comfortable with their candidates having been former governors, they either reside abroad (Dubia and London) or they are in Lagos. Therefore, Asiwaju has said all states of Nigeria need a sustainable master plan that can allow the steady development of these states to discourage the influx of Nigerians to Lagos.

f. Our candidate did not at any time claim to be a monopoly of knowledge, the reason he openly displayed his rare critical leadership skills during the Chatham house interview, wherein he promised Nigerians that he will draft an excellent team of professionals to help proffer solutions to the Nigeria Mirage of problem.

3. Our principal is bold and courageous hence as a president he won’t be a pushover. In a trying time like this, we need a brave and fearless President to take the lead, that is exactly what Asiwaju symbolizes.

Apparently, we need someone who will not be hesitant to take bold and decisive decisions especially as it concerns the National interest of the Nigeria populist on Security, and Economy/Monetary policies, he will be able to challenge those cartels entrenched in the fuel subsidy reaping off our commonwealth through the scam called a subsidy.

We are well assured there won’t be untouchable under his government every public office holder will be put into check and control for the interest of the people.

Asiwaju has over the years promised to tackle restructuring with a view to strengthening the component units of the Nigeria Federation, which will grow according to their potential an well as issues of recurring decimal vis- a -vis state police, resource control, etc. Asiwaju is the true Nigeria that can be best described as a UNIFIER, he is not a religious bigot like the PDP candidate, who speaks of his religion alone or the LP candidate who runs from one church of worship to the other seeking sympathy.

Leadership is by antecedence and experience. He cannot be seen to be a fanatic but a cosmopolitan, he can further be described “on a lighter note as (MTN) everywhere you go”. Our respected principal believed in the growth of manpower development, he has made people across the length and breadth of Nigeria as can be seen in the numerous testimonies from supporters like Joe Igbokwe, Nnamani, etc.

4. Why other presidential Candidates especially (Atiku and Obi) are in a self-serving sycophantic praise singing of the federal government’s anti-people failed and disgraceful CBN monetary policy (Naira Re-design), it is only our principal who in his usual vocal style come out publicly to challenge the presidency and stay with the people by proffering solution through a letter transmitted to the CBN, if implemented will ease the suffering of millions of Nigerians who could not gain access to their hard-earned cash from the bank.

Importantly as it is, our Principal, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not disturbed by the Naira Redesign, his worries are that the masses are gravely affected. The shout and alarm are rooted in his usual character as a champion of the commoners as exemplified in his NADECO and the Military junta struggles. Perhaps, vote buying is not peculiar to any party or candidate, for example, every stakeholder (INEC, Police, Military, para, military, observers, etc.) in the polity, requires finance (Cash) to ensure the smooth execution of their planning and logistic for the polls. Why do the so-called cabal think they are targeting our Principal (Tinubu)? They are of no consequences, these are the cabal who couldnt influence the outcome of the APC primary, where the delegates were all known to them and the numbers were reasonably small, they shall remain inconsequential and insignificant in the general election where well over 93.46 million voters will be the pivotal factors.

5. Conclusively, we wish to audaciously state that the PDP candidate Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is up for a self-serving mission of coming to sell our national assets to his families, friends, and cronies. He is coming to sell those national assets remaining in Nigeria, that escaped him in 1999-2007 e.g., NNPC-LTD, NPA, and other viable National assets that our candidate intends to transform into profit generation for the best interest of the Nigeria State. His desperation to become president this time is nonetheless for self-enrichment and not out of patriotic zeal. While his counterpart Mr Peter Obi of the LP is capitalizing on the ignorance of some few Nigerians, otherwise he should have set Anambra on the path of greatness by ensuring sustainable infrastructural institutions, such that successive government can then build on it as can be seen in Lagos state. Instead, we hear H.E Soludo, Chukwuma complained that the environment of Anambra state is his number one existential threat other than security as over 40% of Anambra land is under threat of erosion and Anambra is now the Erosion capital of Nigeria. Meanwhile, Tinubu was able to salvage the entire Lagos Island from the threat of Ocean Surge which would have taken many lives, The question is what did Peter Obi do to bring the necessary succour to the good people of Anambra while as Governor of that great state for eight years?

6. Gentlemen of the press, from all indications, our principal Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is winning landslides in the February 25th, 2023, general election based on our conviction and track records. We, therefore, humbly call on our eligible voters across the South-South geopolitical zones to turn out in their numbers to vote ASIWAJU BOLA AHMED TINUBU and the APC in their respective polling units. The leadership of the South-South Movement for Tinubu/Shettima Tickets will be here with you next week to address and thank Nigerians at a post-election victory press conference.

NAIRA REDESIGN: The CBN Policy, the Supreme Court Order, the People and now the Executive Order – in a legal fireworks.

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By Cmr. Wilbet Ijeoma

Two days ago, President Muhammadu Buhari is an early morning national broadcast announced to the Nigerian people, in what seems to be an Executive Order, that only the old N200 denomination alongside the new naira notes shall be accepted as a legal tender till 10th April 2023 which shall be its return date. This has added to the ranks of authorities jostling for a stay in the Nigerian polity. Presently in what seems to be a legal fireworks barely 1 week to the general elections, we have the CBN Act enabling naira redesign, the interim order of the Supreme Court which is the prime custodian of the Constitution, the Nigerian people who makes the law and for whom the law is made, and now the Executive Order of the President.

The partial relief which came in the middle of an interim order by the Supreme Court for a stay of execution of the CBN policy was to cushion the effect on Nigerians caused by paucity of new naira notes and/or inability to access the new notes or fuse seamlessly to the cashless policy within the meaning and intendment of the naira redesign.  Nigerians have been groaning under the pain caused by the deadline as they are unable to get the new notes, while the old notes are being sold to them by Point of Sales (PoS) vendors at exorbitant rates. But what are Nigerians saying in the midst of this controversy and economic quagmire in what seems to be a legal and fiscal battle/fireworks?

Senior Advocate of Nigeria and renowned Human Rights Activist, Femi Falana condemns CBN for disobeying Supreme Court order on Naira swap deadline. He lambasted the CBN for flouting the interim injunction of the Supreme Court suspending the implementation of the 10 February deadline on the use of the old banknotes.

It is in record that the Supreme Court restrained the Federal Government, the CBN and Commercial Banks from implementing the currency swap policy, which made N1,000, N500 and N200 notes no longer legal tender from 10 February 2023. The apex court then fixed Wednesday, 15 February for the hearing of the suit brought by the governments of Kaduna, Kogi and Zamfara State, in which Ondo, Kano and Ekiti States have indicated interest for joinder.

International monetary regulators and advisors, IMF, has lent their voices to the Federal Government of Nigeria suggesting that the old notes be allowed to ease out within a considerable good time, but the Federal Government and CBN seems to pay deaf ears to the international community.

Deriding the position of the CBN and the posture of the President on naira swap deadline, Femi Falana, SAN, affirmed that an Act enabling any government agency is read at all times subject to the constitution and not the other way round.  “In a country where the rule of law operates, once the Supreme Court has determined a matter or given an order, it is expected that all and sundry – everybody – will comply with the order”, Falana said.

A statement was credited to the CBN that since it was not a party to the case, it’s not going to comply with the order. The CBN seemed to have absorbed itself from the Supreme Court interim order with a claim that it was not made a party to the suit, perhaps relying on the authority of the Supreme Court in BAKARE V. AJOSE-ADEOGUN SUPRA @ 643 PARAS C-D which has this to say;

“it is trite law that is it only when proper parties are before the Court that the Court will be competent to adjudicate on the suit otherwise the Court shall be incompetent. It is foolhardy not to join a proper party to a suit because any decision taken at his absence would not be binding on him.

The CBN must have also relied on the true meaning of a necessary party whom it deemed itself in this case;

A necessary party to proceedings is one whose presence is essential for the complete determination of the claim before the court; he is a person in the absence of whom the claim cannot be effectually and completely determined. In Re: Mogaji (1986) 1NWLR (Pt. 1) referred to.) (P. 429 paras. C – D); Mbanefo v Molokwu (2014) 6 NWLR (Pt. 1403) 377 at 421, Para A-C, per Fabiyi, JSC., thus rendering the suit incompetent, so also the Court.

The CBN could have been relying on the technicality of Constitution based on the above authorities of the Supreme Court itself, and therefore deemed the interim order made by the Supreme Court incompetent which rendered the court incompetent as well. However, several constitutional lawyers and stakeholders have posited otherwise that nobody should feel they are above the law, even the CBN.

In another development, some unscrupulous bankers along with PoS operators who are their collaborators over-charged customers for transactions. The CBN said it would clamp down on PoS owners, who had turned themselves to payment agents taking undue advantage of this currency transition period to get a better part of the public. The CBN described such unaccredited payment agents as “fifth columnists whose activities constituted economic sabotage, saying that it would carry out sting operations around the country this week to arrest and prosecute them”.

But what is the position of the people who makes the law and for whom the law – the Act and the Constitution – is made for? The people seems to be averse to the CBN policy which has created artificial hardship on the populace as bank credits cannot be liquidated or withdrawn for dispensing basic businesses and households’ needs.

However, some State Governments like that of Ogun, Lagos, Kaduna and Kano States, among others have warned businesses and persons not to reject the old naira notes in respect to the interim order of the Supreme Court which they feel was borne out of the urgency of necessity and within the principle of national interest and economic importance.

However, in what seemed to be a superimposition of the Executive, President Muhammadu Buhari, on Thursday 16th February 2023 in an early morning national broadcast announced and ordered that only N200 old notes would be allowed in the next 90 days, inclusive of the date of such announcement, to ease out as a relief to Nigerians.

How has the people of Nigeria received this announcement and to what extent has this partial relief impacted on the livelihood of Nigerians? What is the position of the Supreme Court with respect to its interim order in this regards? In coming days, this legal fireworks will be demystified.

2023: Ward 11 Umunede Agog as Eluehike, Elekeokwuri, Chucas, Ogadi, Nwaham, Others Assure 5/5 Victory for PDP; Obi-Agwu Gives Royal Blessings.

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By Cmr. Wilbet Ijeoma

The PDP Ward 11 campaign train in Umunede, Ika North-East L.G.A., Delta State, was received today 17th February, 2023 by the Obi of Umunede Kingdom, Obi-Agwu (Dr.) Ezenwali Ezeagwu, JP, in what seemed to be a final push to consolidate the victory of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in the forthcoming general elections.

While speaking with journalists, the Obi-Agwu of Umunede Kingdom, speaking in the voice of his lovely wife, Queen Tonia Ezeagwu, the Isom of Umunede, affirmed that the welbeing, progress and development of Umunede people is the primary concern of His Royal Majesty and assured that PDP has the royal blessings of the Palace to excel in the forthcoming elections.

The PDP Ward 11 Chairman Chief Eluehike Chuks, in an opening remarks, thanked all PDP supporters across the ward and environs for the massive turnout at the event. The Ward Chairman recounted some developmental strides of PDP over the years in Umunede which include construction of roads, building of markets and hospitals, and underscored the need to consolidate on these legacy projects by ensuring all PDP candidates from State House of Assembly to Presidential elections are voted in the forthcoming general elections. He pleaded with all party supporters to set aside next Saturday for the elections at the expense of their farms and businesses which is a sacrifice not too much to make for the success of the party at the polls, urging them to vote PDP 5/5.

Party leader and chieftain, Hon. Benson Iyama, in his remarks, charged party supporters to imbibe the winning mentality which PDP is known for in Delta State. Deriding the performance of APC-led federal government, Hon. Iyama decried the hardship brought upon Nigerians by APC while asserting that the people of Umunede do not want APC anymore, assuring the people that Gov. Okowa’s Vice Presidential bid holds a promise for Umunede at the federal level.

In the same development, the PDP Ward 11 Women Leader, Mrs. Loveth Joe, heaped praises on the Okowa-led PDP administration, encouraging party supporters particularly women to be patient with the government as dividends are not evenly distributed to party supporters at the same time. She urged all party supporters to vote PDP 5/5 in the forthcoming elections for there is no other party other than PDP. In the same vein, the Honourable Councilor representing DSIEC Ward 16 Umunede, Hon. Engr. Azubuike Dominic, urged supporters to vote PDP 5/5 as usual in a bid to consolidating the dividends derived already from the present PDP administration.

A prominent party leader and PDP chieftain in Ika North-East L.G.A.  Chief Frank Chucas, the Obayagbon of Umunede commended the show of support and love for the party, and charged PDP supporters to vote Marilyn Okowa-Daramola for House of Assembly, Hon. Victor Nwokolo for House of Representatives, Prince Ned Nwoko for Senate, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for Governor and Atiku/Okowa for President. While speaking with journalists, Chief Chucas expressed confidence that Atiku will win this time around as there has been no time in the history of Nigerian politics that the south produced president when it fielded more than one candidate, citing instances of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and Chief Obafemi Awolowo from the south at two different times when Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa and Alhaji Shehu Shagari from the north eventually emerged as Prime Minister and President of Nigeria respectively. He further downplayed the chances of the APC candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. “Tinubu claims to be a kingmaker; kingmakers cannot make themselves kings”; the PDP Chieftain asserted.

Allaying the perceived fear of APC opposition in Umunede, Chief Chucas told journalists that though there is bound to be opposition in politics, Umunede people remains resolved to retain PDP in power and vote in PDP at the federal level to consolidate their support. He further discountenanced the chances of Labour Party maintaining that Peter Obi and his Labour Party will labour in vain, while urging party supporters to work together and think twice before casting their votes, and that their votes should be for PDP. “PDP all the way – to contribute and build a future for our children”; Chief Chucas submitted.

Former Chairman of PDP, Ika North-East L.G.A., Chief Godwin Ogadi heaped praises on the developmental strides of the Okowa-led PDP in Umunede so far. He recounted how he rallied round Umunede people in the cities, encouraging and bringing them back home to participate in local politics for elective positions. He affirmed that more opportunities abound for Umunede people in this coming elections while urging party supporters to vote PDP 5/5. The former PDP Chairman derided the chances of one of his kinsmen who is in the opposition party APC, asserting that his bid will not prosper because it is against the wish to Umunede people.

Honourable member representing Ika North-East at Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Tony Elekeokwuri expressed appreciation to party supporters, especially the women and elders for their massive turnout during the event at the expense of their farms and businesses. He told party supporters that the present PDP candidate of Ika North-East for Delta State House of Assembly, Barr. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola has his endorsement and support, affirming that the party is strongly united in one front to win the forthcoming general elections. The lawmaker recounted landmark projects of PDP in Umunede such as roads, markets and hospitals, while expressing confidence that PDP would consolidate on its developmental strides in Delta State as victory is certain come Saturday. Hon. Elekeokwuri told journalist, while responding to an interview, that PDP is not perturbed by the opposition in Umunede, and affirmed that all party supporters has resolved to come out in their numbers to vote PDP 5/5 in the forthcoming general elections.

Reacting further to the perceived opposition of APC in Umunede, a prominent advocate of PDP and SSA to the Governor of Delta State on Media, Hon. Iwemdi Nwaham, while speaking with journalists at Umunede, affirmed that PDP has the chances of winning election in Umunede notwithstanding who wins elsewhere. He however, expressed confidence on a comprehensive victory for PDP in Delta State, while urging party supporters to vote PDP 5/5 – all the way. “Next Saturday’s election is a do or die election”; Nwaham submitted while charging the youths to go out there and ensure PDP comes out victorious at the polls.

In the closing remarks, the Obi-Agwu of Umunede Kingdom, Obi-Agwu (Dr.) Ezenwali Ezeagwu JP, thanked PDP supporters who are also his subjects and expressed optimism on the consolidation of the gains of democracy which Umunede kingdom has witnessed in recent times, while offering his prayers and royal blessings for the victory of PDP in the forthcoming general elections.

Notable at the event are PDP Ward 11 Chairman, PDP Chieftains, Hon. Member of Delta State House of Assembly, Council of Chiefs, Councilors, Unit Chairmen, SAs and SSAs to the Governor on Media, Youth Empowerment and Political Matters, Youth Leader, Women Leader and Support Groups, Equity Group for Sheriff, Religious Leaders and Gentlemen of the Press.

Pa Clark could have done better, Group insist…Berates defamatory open letter to Okowa.

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A Group known as The Mid-Westerners cutting across Old Mid-Western States of Nigeria today convened a press conference with journalists at NUJ Press Centre, Asaba, Delta State, in a bid to put in the right perspective matters arising in the political landscape of Delta State as it affects Deltans in particular and Mid-westerners in general.

The press conference convened was in the wake of the recent imbroglio between Elder Statesman and leader of Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Chief Pa. Edwin Clark and Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa triggered by an open letter and publication written by the former to the later over the recent N250billion loan secured by Delta State Government, Southern Governors’ accord on power shift and other sundry issues.

The Chairman of the Group and Convener, Hon. Iwemdi Nwaham thanked the NUJ Chairman of Delta State Council, Cmr. Michael Ikeogwu for granting the press briefing inspite of the short notice. The Chairman of the Group, in his briefing, acknowledged that Pa Edwin Clark is an elder statesman, a father and grandfather to deltans who has paid his dues in Nigeria and served the nation eminently, and as such should be addressed with respect and dignity. However, he berated the recent open letter and publication made by Pa Clark noting that as an elder statesman and a leader, he ought to have done better in his recent action.
The Chairman of the Group expressed disappointment over the way and manner the highly respected grandfather and elder statesman could exert himself so vigourously, mentally and physically as to unsettling the peace, calm and tranquility in the political landscape of Delta State by his open letter. He likened the action of Pa Clark to that of the Ark of God taken away by the Philistines and the eventual naming of Icabod meaning “the glory has departed the land”. In his briefing, the chairman asserted that Pa Clark should have done better instead of destroying someone from the Old Midwestern region who is seeking the second highest political office in Nigeria.

Other issues addressed in the press conference were the loan of N250bn perceived to be borrowed by Okowa-led Delta State Government, Atiku’s emergence as PDP Presidential flagbearer and the choice of Okowa as Vice Presidential Candidate, amongst others.
Journalists at the event raised questions ranging from the mission, composition and political posture of the Group, the spread of the Group across Mid-Western States, the percieved preemtiveness and divisiveness of the Group, how long the Group has been existing and their impact on Mid-Westerners before this recent imbroglio that brought them to the limelight. While responding to some of the questions, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Group, Prof. David T. Ejenobo affirmed that the Group has been in existence for the past 10 years but has been working “underground”. He posited that the recent outburst between Pa Clark and Governor Okowa came to them as a rude shock which brought about the press conference.
The Group was represented at the event by its Chairman Hon. Iwemdi Nwaham, Vice Chairman Prof. David T. Ejenobo, Secretary Deacon Fidelis Chimokwu, and members Rotarian Kenneth Okwuenu and Miss Amaka Jessica.

2023: VOTE ME AS YOUR GOVERNOR WITH YOUR PEN AND PVC …OBOREVWORI APPEALS TO NUJ

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It was a beehive of activities bordering on presentation, interactions, questions and answers at the newly built NUJ Press Centre, Asaba yesterday 7th February 2023 as journalists of NUJ Delta State Council engaged the PDP gubernatorial aspirant, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on a programme tagged “The Platform”. The programme was designed to offer journalists the opportunity to interact with the gubernatorial aspirant as he outlines his M.O.R.E agenda for Delta and deltans.
The PDP gubernatorial candidate and present Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly thanked the NUJ for propagating the policies and programmes of the Okowa-led administration, as he termed the Press as partners in progress of the State. “Press Centre building is one of the dividends of the relationship between the State Government and the Press”; the 3-time Speaker affirmed, while assuring to equip the Press Centre with more air conditioners and other equipment.
Elucidating on his M.O.R.E. agenda, Oborevwori harped on meaningful development, opportunities for all, realistic reforms and enhanced peace and security which embodies his social contract with deltans in consolidation of the legacy of his boss, the Vice Presidential Candidate of PDP and Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.
“I will continue to support NUJ and pledge to serve as governor for all deltans irrespective of the divide; I’ll be fair, just and accessible to all irrespective of tribe.” “I have the capacity and experience to make Delta great. By divine grace, I am the longest serving Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly”; the 3-time Speaker confidently expressed. Outlining his mission and vision, Oborevwori said; “I am in a mission to enthrone sustainable development and lasting peace in Delta State”. “I am a pro-NUJ; Sheriff that is standing here is your friend and one of you; I remain your reliable friend; you have two powerful tools to use in electing me as Governor – your pen and your PVC; use your pens to publicize me across Delta State and your PVCs to vote for me and other PDP candidates from Presidential to State House of Assembly.

The Speaker lamented how Deltans and Nigerians at large have not had it most terrible like this in the APC administration challenged with fuel scarcity, currency paucity and suffering. Further assuring the journalist, Oborevwori promised that he will work in collaboration with his colleagues to do more, listen to journalists more, and achieve more when voted as the Governor of Delta State.
In the question and answer session, the Speaker fielded questions ranging from uncertainty of his endorsement by PDP political leader and former Governor of Delta State, James Ibori, his impact on Osubi which was perceived to be situate at his constituency, his grassroots penetration, expectations from Ndokwa people, issues of loans secured by the present administration of Delta State, amongst others. He assured NUJ that as a unifier with his street credibility and local content, he will penetrate the length and breadth of Delta with sustainable development.
The NUJ Chairman of Delta State Council, Cmr. Michael Ikeogwu, in a vote of thanks, appreciated the PDP gubernatorial candidate and Speaker, DTHA for engaging with the Press, with the credit of being the first government official to visit the Press Centre since 28th October, 2022 when it was commissioned, and prayed God to grant his quest to lead Delta. Ikeogwu expressed appreciation to the Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for the job well done in the Press Centre and pleaded with the Speaker and other government functionaries in his entourage to come to the aid of NUJ in providing some basic facilities in the Centre like more air conditioners, generator and construction of NUJ relaxation centre, among others. Reacting, the Speaker promised to provide 2 more air conditioners and five hundred thousand naira (#500,000) for generator the next day.

The event was roundly attended by some political bigwigs in Delta State amongst which were; the Deputy Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ochor Christopher Ochor, Chief of Staff to the State Government, Rt. Hon. Festus Ovie Agas, Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilije, Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Prince Emmanuel Amgbaduba, Hon. Dr. Ebenezer Ogborodudu, Hon Hope Oborevwori and immediate past S.A. to the Governor on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, Chief Edwin Uzor, JP, among others. Gentlemen of the Press who are members of NUJ Delta State Council were visibly present at the event.

2023: SUPPORT THE TEAM, THE PARTY, NOT CANDIDATES; Prince Nwoko entreats Journalists

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Prince Ned Nwoko

Leading Delta North Senatorial Candidate in the forthcoming general elections and renowned Philanthropist, Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko met with journalists yesterday 7th February 2023 at the newly built NUJ Press Centre, Asaba in what seemed to be a beehive of activities bordering on interactions, questions and answers in a programme organized by NUJ tagged “The Platform”. The Star Prince, as he is fondly called, stole the show as he unbundled protocols and moderated the programme. He assured the Press that he did not come for campaign, but to interact with journalists.

Prince Nwoko, while speaking to journalists yesterday, harped on objective reporting/reportage. He made a dig on how not to support a team with the analogy of football teams, and urged supporters to support both candidates and their team which is the party. He berated party supporters who support candidates across party borders, saying; “When we here persons saying they are voting individuals not party, they are creating problems for us. When you have me as PDP Senator, I can easily approach a PDP Governor and a PDP President for the needs of my people”. “Don’t mix-match; if you mix-match, it will be difficult for the team or party to win. The PDP Senatorial Candidate outlined the ills of being a minority or in opposition at the Red Chamber. “I don’t want to get to Abuja to be a minority or in opposition”; the PDP Delta North Senatorial Candidate enthused.

 

In the question and answer session, Prince Nwoko fielded some questions. On the trending “Obidient” movement making the waves across the nation and in diaspora, the Senate hopeful allayed the fears and worries on the emergence of Peter Obi, maintaining that Peter Obi cannot win any State; that he can win elections only if it is conducted among Nigerians in diaspora.
Reacting to a question raised on whether his closest rival Senator Peter Nwaoboshi of the APC poses a threat to his bid, and another on his perceived incontrovertible candidature over his rival who is presently embattled, the Star Prince said that it is his ernest prayer that Senator Nwaoboshi be a free man so that they can have a fair contest, and accord the electorate the luxury of choice.
In a vote of thanks, the NUJ Chairman of Delta State Council, Cmr. Michael Ikeogwu, appreciated the PDP Delta North Senatorial Candidate for making out time to be with the Press on the Platform. He however, solicited his kind support to look into some uncompleted projects in the Press Centre like the Bar and Restaurant after its commissioning on 28th October 2022.

The event was roundly attended by some political bigwigs in Delta State and gentlemen of the Press across Delta State.

UIAA: Tinubu To Commission Ganduje Auditorium, UI, on Tuesday, Feb. 7

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News View
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By ABEL JOHNGOLD

Senator Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), is expected to commission the Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje Auditorium in University of Ibadan (UI), on Tuesday, 7th February, 2023.

The governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, Ph:D, an alumnus of the University of Ibadan, has invited his Party presidential flag-bearer, to commission the auditorium he built for the Premier University, through the influence of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA).

Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Ph:D, OFR, Governor of Kano State

The event is expected to be chaired by the Federal Minister of Special Duties and former Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Senator Dr. Gorge Akume, who is also an alumnus of the University.

Spade Ng News further gathered, that the fully furnished Ganduje Auditorium, built for the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, was completed in November last year, but Governor Ganduje appealed for a delay of the official commissioning till Tuesday, 7 February, when Bola Ahmed Tinubu would be available to perform the inauguration.

The Ganduje Auditorium, which was initiated by the immediate past Prof. Elsie Olufunke Adewoye led-exco of the UIAA, is expected to be handed-over to the University of Ibadan authority, through the Alumni Association after the commissioning.

While inviting the entire membership of UIAA WORLD-WIDE to be at the occasion, the Worldwide President of the Alumni, Prof. Gabriel Nyityo, disclosed that there would be a symposium after the commissioning.

 

“There will be a symposium immediately after the official commissioning of the Ganduje Auditorium”. Nyityo affirmed.

*When Did Going To Church Become A Sin?

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News View
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Kenneth Gbagi

By Oghenekevwe Kelvin Jakpo

In recent times, the news media in the state have been inundated with criticisms against Chief (Barrister) Kenneth Gbagi; the Social Democratic Party’s gubernatorial candidate for the 2023 election in Delta State. The surprising thing about these attacks against him is that, they are not because of any known fault or default on the part of this well-accepted illustrious son of our dear state. Rather, it is hinged on the flimsy reason that he is fraternizing too much with the Church of God; the Body of Christ.

Kenneth Gbagi

Many right-thinking Deltans have raised their voices in condemnation of this despicable act of persecuting a man for his love, faith and trust in God. And I’m of the opinion that Gbagi should be seen as an example for other candidates who are openly uninterested in the things of God and open identification with the church of God instead of being persecuted by the powers that be.

Church

I say this because, Jesus speaking in the Bible says that whosoever is ashamed of him before men (in this wicked and froward world), He also will be ashamed of such a fellow before God, His father and before God’s angels in heaven. Barrister Kenneth Gbagi, by his open identification with the body of Christ, has shown faith and dependence in God. He should be commended!

Again, without any iota of doubt, therefore, Chief Kenneth Gbagi should receive accolades and encomiums for not shying away from God like other candidates and politicians, instead of being antagonized.

In actual fact, he should be held out as a role model for politicians in all their activities especially in the pursuit of political power because Gbagi has shown faith in God unlike others who consult and patronize fetish and devilish means to get to power. Did the Bible not say that he that rules over men must do so with the fear of God?! The seeking of the help of God from the church of God, remember, is a sign of the fear of God which is the beginning of wisdom. Kings rule by wisdom. Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, therefore, has shown capacity for godly leadership by seeking the wisdom of God and should be emulated.

I’m here calling on all voters of Delta State to be alive to their responsibility; to see that God is actually using this development to reveal the real and true nature of those who are aspiring to lead us. Most of them are devils in human clothings. We must reject them this time around!

We must shine our eyes and choose wisely from the stock of candidates available. Barrister Kenneth Gbagi is of a different political stock. He, like Peter Obi, has shown love for God and faith in His power. Shouldn’t such a man receive our votes and support for the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the state? Shouldn’t all Deltans file behind such a character and reject all others who feel they are bigger than God or too proud to seek God’s help as Kenneth Gbagi is doing?

The choice is left for us to make. But wisdom demands that we choose a man that fears and loves God. Only then will be be sure of good governance in the next dispensation. Kenneth Gbagi is the man.

Let’s support him.

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