₦airaland Forum

Being the statement by the Akwa Ibom State Government on the developments from the #EndSARS Protests in Uyo

The national protest by citizens against police brutality statrted in our country few weeks ago, with a concomitant spread to different states of the federation. About a week ago, youths gathered at the globe roundabout, Uyo to register their solidarity with victims of police brutality and to draw the attention of the world to the prevalence of these issues. The Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel addressed the protesters who were very peaceful. Thereafter, the protesters shifted base to the city center and have since remained very peaceful.

In response, the Governor, has swiftly taken steps to assuage the protesters by setting up and inaugurating a Judicial Panel of Investigation.

As at today, we have witnessed scenarios where the protests were clearly hijacked by hoodlooms who were attacking public and private property and looting business premises, which confirm the earlier intelligence available to us on the planned hijack of the peaceful demonstrations. To this end, we appeal to all genuine protesting groups to please suspend their protest due to the obvious hijack by negative minded elements. The protesters and other victims should rather use the opportunity provided by the Panel of Investigation, which sitting will commence on 26th October, 2020 at the High Court complex, FULGA road, Uyo.

We cannot therefore allow strangers to invade our state and destroy our public and private property, which we laboured strenuously to build and acquire over decades.To allow these unpatriotic elements to destroy private or public property, will be to surrender our land to evil plunder and we will have ourselves to blame, when all of this is over. Like we have seen in other parts of the country, today we witnessed the protests take a violent turn, where innocent citizens have been brutalized and property destroyed. The people whom the peaceful demonstration sought to protect have become the victims of violent protest, because in a mob action, no one is safe.

As the curfew imposed by the Governor subsists, We ask all Akwa Ibom people to be on red alert and report to the police and other security agencies, any suspicious movements and persons. We are trusting that God, who has been our help in ages past and our hope for years to come, will continue to keep our state and citizens safe. Akwa Ibom is all we have as God’s piece of real estate for us and we must take practical steps to protect our collective heritage.

Signed:

Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem
Secretary to the State Government
Akwa Ibom State
22102020

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Link plesee

Gov Udom proposes N435.652b for 2021
...pledges to focus on industrialisation, education, civil service, ors

Governor Udom Emmanuel has proposed the sum of N435.652 billion as budget for the year 2021.

The governor made this known while presenting the fiscal plan for the coming year christened 'Budget of Reconstruction' before the plenary of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly at the Assembly Complex in Uyo, yesterday.

According to him, the 2021 budget is predicated on an oil benchmark of $40 per barrel at a production rate of 1.86 million barrels per day, with an estimated exchange rate of N379/US$, in line with the National Budget benchmark projections.

This year's budgetary outlay is N69.652 billion more than the approved revised provision of N366.000billion of year 2020.

An overview of the budget shows that recurrent expenditure is pegged at N158.403 billion while capital expenditure is N226.964 billion. Consolidated Revenue Fund Charge will be N50.285 billion, summing the entire fiscal plan at N435.652 billion.

Governor Emmanuel informed the House that the policy thrust of the 2021 budget will focus on key pillars of his Completion Agenda.

"The objective is to ensure that we rapidly industrialize this State and open up new areas of growth and development through intense and coordinated efforts to increase our internally generated revenues and be less dependent on allocations from the federal government, which was the main thrust of recommendations by the Post-Covid -19 Economic Reconstruction Committee I had set up earlier this year". He said.

He also informed the legislators that education will be given a pride of place in 2021 because "our children must be made ready to compete with their peers and distilled to be a part of the global march to apply science and technology to create job and wealth for themselves.

"Our children are highly gifted and innovative and we must provide the enabling environment for them to achieve their potentials.

In addition, the governor disclosed that he underatands that civil servants must also be exposed through rigorous training and retraining on the current trends in public administration thus "we desire to have an agile and efficient public service to help drive our Completion Agenda.

"We will intensify our investments in healthcare delivery by completing among other key elements, the construction and commissioning of the General Hospitals in Ikot Abasi and Ikot Ekpene respectively. We will remain proactive in ensuring that we reduce the incidence of communicable diseases.

"Our infrastructural renaissance will continue to receive critical attention. I have always said that for development anchored on industrialization to take roots, we must invest heavily in Land, Air and Sea infrastructures. You will agree with me that we have achieved a lot in the area of road infrastructures as can be seen from the economically viable dualized roads we have constructed throughout the three senatorial districts".

He pointed out that the air infrastructure his administration has setup is the pride of the nation and pledged to ensure that the Ibom Deep Seaport project is actualized in the life of his administration.

"Our strategy for the development of this State has been the need to rapidly industrialize her, and create employment and wealth opportunities for our people. We have done exceedingly well in this regard through the over 20 industries we have attracted so far to this State, more of which would have been attracted, if we were not hit by the Covid-19 pandemic. As the world opens up post Covid-19, we will accelerate our pace in this area and continue to attract viable industries that would help with our strategic and sustainable developmental plans. We remain committed to the realization of our plans on “Power for All” by 2021.

"We will spare no expense in ensuring that our State continues to enjoy the peace and development that we are nationally known for. Our security agencies have been great partners in this regard and we hope to continue to work hand in gloves to protect the lives and property of our citizens and, thus help attract more investors and tourism to our dear State.

"We will continue to encourage the development of our rural and riverine areas so as to stem the rural-urban migration through the provision of electricity, feeder roads and the promotion of mechanized agriculture.

"Our youths and women would be empowered through various agencies of development we have established. I want to commend the youths for rising to the faith of their greatness and forsaking cultism and other anti-social tendencies. We will do all we can to ameliorate their pains".

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Massive turnout As PDP Kicks-off LG Campaigns in Ikot Abasi, Eastern Obolo, Mkpat Enin

Ahead of the local government elections in Akwa Ibom State, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state has commenced campaign tour with vists to Ikot Abasi, Eastern Obolo, Mkpat Enin local government areas.

The train which first arrived Ikot Abasi, then Eastern Obolo before heading to Mkpat Enin, was greeted by a pool of party faithful and supporters who thronged in their numbers to welcome the state party chairman, Obong Udo Ekpenyong with his team.

Udo Ekpenyong while performing the flag presentation to the party's chairmanship and councillorship candidates, commended the party faithful in the federal constituency for their commitment to entrench PDP at the grassroot level and ensure the party's growth for the good of the people.

Ekpenyong who was visibly elated, thanked the party stakeholders in the federal constituency for ensuring a smooth and peaceful conduct of the ward and local government congresses, which produced the candidates that received the party's flags for the October 31, 2020 local government polls.

He further assured faithful of the party and people of the federal constituency of more democratic gains from the umbrella of PDP, adding that they will not be disappointed in their choice of leaders.

At Ikot Abasi and Mkpat Enin Local Government Areas, the party chairman received new defectors from other political parties into the PDP. While welcoming them, he assured them of sufficient space, noting that the party's umbrella is big enough to accommodate as much people as possible, charging them to embrace the democratic ideals of the party.

Speaking at the campaign in Ikot Abasi local government area, Engr Uwem Okoko recalled that the people of the local government voted overwhelmingly for the PDP in the 2019 general elections despite the fact that the leading opposition governorship candidate came from the area.

"In 2019, Ikot Abasi people through the instrumentality of our voters card, sent a very convincing message to Akwa Ibom people and indeed Nigerians that the whole of our Local Government is for the PDP. We have not regretted that decision that is why some of our brothers and sisters who were obviously misled have decided today to come back to the PDP, the only party they know can guarantee their progress.

"Mr Chairman, I am confident to tell you today that Ikot Abasi is PDP except one person which I also know will come back soon. The same way we delivered Ikot Abasi to the PDP in 2019, we will do it again convincingly on 31st October, 2020 as well as in 2023 and beyond. We are proud of the leadership of Gov. Udom Emmanuel. We will continue to support the PDP under the leadership of Obong Udo Ekpenyong. Ikot Abasi will continue to remain PDP".

In Mkpat Enin, the state commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Prof. Eno Ibanga thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel for all the people oriented projects in the area, adding that it is only the PDP that has the interest of the people at heart.

"Let me assure the Peoples Democratic Party that Mkpat Enin is PDP. PDP in Mkpat Enin has already commenced the road that was abandoned.

"I thank the State Chairman and the entire PDP for all they are doing for Mkpat Enin LGA. Our candidates are square pegs in square holes and there is no cause for alarm in the forth coming election. In fact, we are good to go and sleep. Please tell our Executive Governor that Mkpat Enin is solidly behind him".

In other remarks, various stakeholders of the party at the campaign, re-echoed their stance in supporting the party's cause and made for the sustenance of the party at the local government level. The women who spoke through their representatives, appreciated Governor Udom Emmanuel and the state party leadership for the opportunity given women to excel in leadership pursuit through the party's platform by making gender friendly policies and giving women key roles in party affairs.

On their part, the youth representatives separately acknowledged the role played by the youth in projecting the party's interest as well as the increasing opportunities made available for young people in the party. They reiterated their loyalty to the party, noting that it is through the PDP that many good aspirations will be satisfied.

The PDP local government campaign tour will continue in nine federal constituencies in Akwa Ibom State, in the party's bid to sell its manifesto to the electorate and engage key players in the polity on grassroot development concerns.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

GOV EMMANUEL RECEIVES FG GAZETTE ON LIBERTY FREE TRADE ZONE
...SET TO COMMENCE AFRICA'S LARGEST COCONUT OIL REFINERY

Governor Udom Emmanuel has formally received the official gazette of the federal government signalling the approval for the Liberty Oil and Gas Free Zone in the state.

The Gazette on the approval was presented to the Governor by a delegation from the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA), led by its Managing Director, Mr. Umana Okon Umana, Friday at the Executive Chambers, Government House, Uyo. 

Governor Emmanuel thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for the timely approval for the establishment of the Liberty Oil and Gas Free Zone in the state.

He said the 50,000 hectares free trade zone, which covers six local government  areas in the state, is proposed to be the largest in Nigeria when completed.

Mr Emmanuel stressed that this will give a boost to the state’s coconut refinery project and its consequent economic diversification.

The governor explained that the state-owned coconut refinery which will be driven by a combination of several technologies to enhance its operations once installed will serve as a major export hub of coconut virgin oil in Africa, adding that the refinery will be multi-faceted and digitized with capacity to process other economic products like palm kernel. 

"Within this oil and gas free zones we are installing the largest coconut refinery that will do crude extraction of coconut oil in Africa. That same refinery without changing a pan can process palm kernel oil, so it is going to be a multi-faceted, multi-purpose and digitized refinery”.

He said the delay in the commencement of the coconut refinery was due to the outbreak of COVID-19 which stalled the movement of expatriates and equipment acquired for the project and assured Akwa Ibom people of its commencement once the dreaded pandemic is abated.

Governor Emmanuel urged the management team of the Oil and Gas Free Zone Authority to take advantage of the 21 storey office accommodation by moving their office to the state, maintaining that the building has been affirmed the smartest building in the country

He said the state government has had elaborate consultations and sensitization of relevant communities through the traditional and other grassroots institutions and gave assurances on the acceptability of the project and cooperation of locals to enhance security.

The MD/CEO, Mr. Umanah Okon Umanah, in an earlier remark on behalf of the delegation from the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority, described their visit to the state as historic and lauded the governor’s effort in working with the federal government to promote the establishment of the Liberty Oil and Gas Free Zone in Akwa Ibom State.

Mr Umana explained that the Governor deserves commendation and congratulated him for earning the  President’s approval through his deliberate efforts.

Mr. Umana commended Governor Emmanuel for working hard to ensure the peace in the state which, he added, has created an attractive business environment for Foreign Direct Investments in the downstream and upstream sectors of the oil and gas industry.

He assured that the project was already up and running as his agency was already with the various multinationals for the takeoff of the construction phase.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

ENDSARS: GOV EMMANUEL LAUDED FOR ADDRESSING #ENDSARS PROTESTERS

...HARPS ON COMMUNITY POLICING

Governor Udom Emmanuel has been applauded for his genial approach towards resolving crises as displayed as he addressed the #endSARS protesters in Uyo.

This commendation came from youths who had gathered in Uyo to join the nationwide protest to end SARS.

According to one of youth leaders leading the protest, “we want to commend you for the peace we have enjoyed so far in the State. Time was, when we had a lot of security challenges, but because of the zero- tolerance you have for criminal activities, we have enjoyed peace and development in our state.

"For this, we thank you deeply. We thank you Your Excellency for being a youth- friendly Governor, and for all you have done for us”, said Aniefiok Iwaudofia, Chairman Youth Caucus.

Iwaudofia spoke on behalf of the youths.



Meanwhile, the governor has commended Akwa Ibom youths for their peaceful conduct in the “EndSARS” protest against police brutality. He assuring that their dissatisfactions will be addressed appropriately.

Governor Emmanuel also lauded the timely response of President Muhammadu Buhari to the concerns expressed by of Nigerians by immediate disbandment of the contended Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) of the Nigeria Police. This, he said, will go a long way to quell already generated tensions over alleged brutality of the police unit.

“Let me thank all of you for the peaceful manner in which this has been conducted. I want to thank all the youths and all the leaders and also express our concern on what this fight has been all about. Let me also appreciate the President of Nigeria who had acted promptly to have announced the disbandment of SARS completely. If the President that we know has given that commitment, I trust that he will keep to it. At the state here, I want to assure you that there will never be anything like police brutality”.

He assured that Akwa Ibom Government was engaging the police command in the state to ensure a harmonious relationship among the institutions of government and communities, in the interest of the people.

“Let me assure you that in Akwa Ibom State, immediately we heard about the issues I called the Police Commissioner and we didn’t only talk about SARS, but the entire police command that as their slogan says that police is your friend, police in Akwa Ibom must remain our friend, so they have given me 100% assurance, to work with the youths, the elders and everybody to make sure the state is calm and peaceful. He’s a man you can actually call the head of a police command that can be our friend. I want to assure you as the chief security officer of the state that we will ensure that this is done.

He however tasked the protesters to endeavour to end the protest peacefully and to come up with a documented presentation of their demands in form of a communiqué, while restating the commitment of state government to ensuring that issues raised are addressed satisfactorily by appropriate quarters.

“Let me thank all of you and wish that as you end the protest peacefully and as we struggle in this country together God will make our tomorrow better than today, but I’m not only going to take these words of mouth, confer with your leaders and ensure that before you leave you will hand over a communiqué, which can say when the EndSARS came to our state, these were the issues they raised and I promise to take it upwards. I will also extract a communiqué from our own security meeting with the police; that the police will remain our friend because the essence of the police is to protect our lives and our properties”.

The governor also gave assurance that with the approval of community policing, more youths in the state will be engaged to work with the police to nip all sorts of criminalities at the bud, maintaining that their innate knowledge of the state, the communities and the people, the involvement of community youth will b be guarantee greater peace and security.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

A'Ibom Workers applaud Gov Emmanuel on approval of 2019 promotion

Workers in Akwa Ibom State are thrilled by the announcement that Governor Udom Emmanuel has approved the release of the 2019 promotion of 2,248 workers in the state.

The State Head of Civil Service, Elder Effiong Essien, broke the news during the official opening ceremony of a 5-Day Capacity Building Retreat for Officers on grade levels 13 to 17 in Uyo on Tuesday.

According to him, “in his avowed commitment to the development of workers and growth of the Civil Service, Governor Udom Emmanuel has approved the release of the 2019 promotion to 2, 248 workers in the state government employ".

Those affected by the promotion are officers from grade level seven and above who participated in the 2019 promotion exercise.

Essien described the promotion as very timely and beneficial, saying that additional earnings would augment the increasing family expenditure of the affected workers and charged the workers not to relent in their dedication and support to the present government to reciprocate the Governor’s sincere concern for them.

Meanwhile, the announcement has received widespread applause within and outside the Civil Service in the state.

Reacting to the announcement, the Honorary Special Assistant on Labour Matters, Comrade Unyime Usoro, stated that this is another indication that Governor Udom Emmanuel is sensitive to the welfare of Akwa Ibom workers and keen on improving their condition of service.

He said the promotion was very timely because "naturally, every action taken towards improvement of welfare of workers will impact positively on workers' morale and productivity".

Usoro, who is a former State Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, added that workers are very mindful of promotion since their monetary benefits are tied to their grade level per time as such if their promotion is either denied or delayed it would demoralise them.

"There are a number of things [benefits] that are dependent on the grade level which you are. For instance, your leave grant depends your salary grade level, if you want to go on tour and even your retirement benefits, so the moment workers' promotion is delayed or denied it will demoralise them which in turns adversely affects their morale and output.

"So, it is a very good development and His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel, has taken this step to boost the morale of workers in the service. Now, even those yet to receive their promotion will be hopeful that their turn will come".

Also baring him mind on this development, the State Secretary of NLC, Comrade Iboro Ibara, stated the announcement is a welcomed development.

According to him, he heard the cheery news on approval of promotion yesterday. While acknowledging the effort of government he said that workers are hopeful that all abnormalities pertaining to their promotion in the past years will be normalised.

He further hinted that promotion is a boost to productivity, but without it "I think it is against the growth of the service and not quite positive for productivity. People are supposed to be promoted as at when due and people are supposed to derive the benefits of their promotion as at when due".
The State Chairman of Trade Union Congress, TUC, Comrade Akamba Awah, was not available to comment on this development. Calls to his mobile phones went unanswerded as at the time of filing this report.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

1st CLASS ALUMNUS EMERGES AS 8TH VICE-CHANCELLOR OF THE UNIVERSITY OF UYO

The Governing Council of the University of Uyo at its Special Meeting held on Tuesday, October 6, 2020 approved the appointment of Professor Nyaudoh Ukpabio Ndaeyo, Professor of Farm Systems, Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, as the 8th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University. This was following the selection of Three (3) highest appointable candidates, based on their scores at the interview conducted by the University’s Joint Council and Senate Selection Board on Monday October 5, 2020.

The Board had submitted the outcome of the interview to the University Governing Council which met on Tuesday, October 6, 2020 for the purpose of selecting a Vice-Chancellor from the list of three (3) names received from the Board, in line with the provisions of the Universities (Miscellaneous Provisions) Law. The Governing Council which is made up of thirteen (13) members had resolved to select the Vice-Chancellor through a secret vote. At the end, Professor Nyaudoh Ukpabio Ndaeyo had scored Nine (9) votes, Professor Edet Joshua Udoh had scored four (4) votes and Professor Gabriel Sunday Umoh had scored zero(0) vote. Council had therefore approved the appointment of Professor Nyaudoh U. Ndaeyo as the 8th Substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University, with effect from December 1, 2020, based on the result of the secret vote.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council, Professor Austin C. Awujo, had led members of the Council to the front of the building where the Special meeting of Council held, and voluntarily announced the appointment of Professor Ndaeyo as the incoming Vice-Chancellor, to staff of the University who were eagerly awaiting the decision of the Council. This was clearly caught on video.

Professor Nyaudoh Ndaeyo is a First Class Honours degree in Agronomy alumnus of the University of Uyo who also holds Masters and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the University of Ibadan. He is presently the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University.


Signed
Mr. Aniediabasi D. Udofia Secretary to Governing Council

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

...As Stakeholders, Members Laud Party's Proactive Move

By James Aity/AK Kingsley

Following the creation of additional wards in Akwa Ibom State by the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission,(AKISIEC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom has conducted special elective congresses to constitute new executive committee and fill vacant positions in 80 wards across 25 local government chapters.

The congresses which held Saturday October 3, 2020 at the affected ward centers, followed guidelines of the party and covid 19 protocols. The state chairman of the party, Obong Udo Ekpenyong, while addressing some stakeholders and members of the Party before the distribution of materials for the conduct of the congress, maintained that the Congress will be conducted in strict adherence to the PDP constitution as well as the guidelines from the electoral umpire.

Obong Ekpenyong explained that while the new wards needed properly constituted executive committees, it was important to get replacement for vacant positions left behind by ward officers who either resigned to vie for positions in the October 31 local government election, or have moved to the new wards. He tasked party officers involved in the exercise to uphold the democratic ideals of fairness, transparency, equity and peace which the PDP in Akwa Ibom State is known for, throughout the congress.

Stakeholders and members of the PDP in Akwa Ibom state who took part in the congresses have commended the Obong Ekpenyong-led leadership of the PDP for taking proactive measures to ensure that Congress had a peaceful, effective and rancour-free outcome across the 80 wards.

Members of the PDP who spoke to journalists in wards which the congress held said the outcome of the congress has underscored the fact that the PDP is a big family, stressing that the outcome of the congress will have positive and far-reaching impact on the fortunes of the PDP in Akwa Ibom State.

“What is happening today is very commendable. It shows that the current leadership has placed the interest of the Party as utmost priority. As a person, I must confess that I am very impressed with the leadership of Hon. Udo Ekpenyong”, Mr Effiong Okon, a PDP member in Nung Atai Ube Ward 2, Okobo LGA said.

"As you can see, this is a very peaceful exercise. Our Party the PDP in Akwa Ibom State is always known for peaceful conduct of Congresses. Today's congress adds to the legacy of peaceful Congresses we have held. And I must say that this tradition of peaceful conduct of congresses and the peace that follows after these exercises goes to show that our Party is on the right path" Mrs Unwana Offiong, a member of the PDP in Ikpe 2 in Ini Local Government Area told our reporter.

It would be recalled that the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC) earlier this year, created new wards in various local government areas in the state in addition to the previous 329 that existed.

In Uyo senatorial district, the congresses held in Uyo, Uruan, Ibesikpo Asutan, Nsit Ibom, Nsit Ubium, Etinan, Ibiono Ibom and Itu Local Government Chapters. In Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District, congresses were conducted in wards across Ikot Ekpene, Easien Udim, Obot Akara, Ini, Ikono, Abak, Etim Ekpo, Oruk Anam and Ukanafun Local Government chapters; while in Eket Senatorial District, Eket, Esit Eket, Onna, Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin, Oron, Okobo and Mbo local government chapters also held their ward congresses.

Sequel to the October 31 local government elections in Akwa Ibom State, the PDP is fielding candidates for all 31 local government areas and 368 wards.

CC: Lalasticlala

Nigeria at 60: “Take Your Rightful Place in Building the Nigeria of Your Dream,” Ogunsakin Admonishes Nigerian Youths
 
As Nigeria celebrates her 60th independence anniversary, former Ado-Ekiti Local Government chairman and the People’s Democratic Party, PDP's deputy governorship candidate in the 2018 gubernatorial election in Ekiti State, Hon. Deji Ogunsakin, has called on Nigerian youths to take their rightful place in building the Nigeria of their dream. He noted that Nigeria is a work in progress and needs her vibrant and energetic massive youthful population to work hard and participate actively in every meaningful endeavour that can promote unity, sustain development and project the image of Nigeria in a good light. 

“Youths are the engine room of national development. Recent statistics show that Nigerian youths between the ages of 18-35 make up about 51% of the nation's population while those in the 36-50 age bracket are about 30%. This means that Nigerians between the ages of 18-50 are about 80% of the entire population of our country which clearly shows that there's absolutely no meaningful development that can happen in Nigeria if her most active and largest age bracket is not encouraged to have faith in the country.

“Youths all over the world power elections and we must not only mobilise on social media, but also encourage people to come out and vote for a candidate of their choice in any election. Participation in governance starts with the elections and we must ensure the narrative we have been tagged with ‘Lazy Youths’ is changed as we approach 2023,” Ogunsakin stated.

The successful banker turned politician charged Nigerian youths; “Do not commit your future into the hands of those who are not likely to be a part of it. At 60, Nigeria is being governed by octogenarians who are obviously out of touch with today's realities hence, the abysmal performance of the current administration on all fronts. Yes, everybody cannot contest elections or become active members of political parties, but we owe our future a duty to actively participate during elections to ensure that the people's will is not subverted by the crooked ruling class.” 

He further charged them to participate actively in politics and ensure that they are part of policy and decision making that will shape their own future. While congratulating Nigerians on the independence anniversary, Ogunsakin called on political leaders across the nation to give young people an opportunity to serve which he said is the surest way of setting and putting a lasting succession plan in place. 

According to the PDP stalwart, “I was a local government chairman at 35; Special Adviser on Due Process at 38 and deputy governorship candidate at 39 under a leader who I consider the only lover and promoter of youths that I know, Dr Ayo Fayose, the former governor of Ekiti State. I wish other leaders can emulate his audacity to stand by young people always. I am a firm believer in project Nigeria and also optimistic of a better Nigeria in the nearest future and it starts with you and me.”

Cc: Lalasticlala

AKSG TO PARTNER TRINIDAD & TOBAGO ON AVIATION, ORS

Akwa Ibom State Government has indicated its readiness to collaborate with the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in the areas of aviation, tourism, agriculture and industrial estate for the development of the state.

This was the hallmark of billateral discussion between the state Governor, Mr  Udom Emmanuel and the High Commissioner for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago to Nigeria, Mr. Wendell Vincent Carlton De Landro, when the High Commissioner called on the Governor at Government House, Uyo.

Governor Emmanuel who expressed appreciation for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago’s interest in the state’s budding aviation industry and other areas of economic venture, pointed out that his administration has repositioned the state for such collaboration in view of the recorded strides in industrialization and other gateways of development.

He disclosed that the state administration is working out modalities with multinational companies towards kick-starting the state industrial park, especially with the commencement of the Seaport and International flight operations.


"We are working on a lot of things that will involve a lot of countries. It will be a very good synergy. We’re thinking of establishing about thirty to thirty-five industries in a cluster but the post COVID-19 challenges may posed a problem, even at that we may have about fifteen industries depending on the outcome of our next meetings. I’m going to start by January. We’ve cleared the site, we’ve made provision for 24 hours electricity and water is not a problem", he explained.


Governor Emmanuel told the visiting envoy that the state is on the verge of hosting the smartest airport terminal building in the continent, adding that the state airline, IbomAir will commence international flights for passengers and cargo early 2022.


"We're going to have the smartest airport terminal building in the whole of Africa and that is under construction. We are going to commission the terminal building by December next year and once we commission it, we are going to start full international flights of Ibom Air by the first quarter of 2022", he assured.


Earlier, the High Commissioner, Mr. Wendell De Landro, commended the state vision of floating and sustaining the Ibom Air, empohasising  that his home government has indicated interest to collaborate with the state in the area of direct flight operations between Nigeria and his country through the state-owned airline and to further discussions for establishing an industrial estate in Akwa Ibom.


De Landro spoke of Trinidad and Tobago as a small twin island in the Caribbean with a lot of people engaging in various professions, observing that the state was fast transforming into an industrial hub, with rich agricultural resources that forms the state’s staple food.


The Diplomat expressed intention of his home government to use the state aviation channel to establish a trade line between Akwa Ibom and Nigeria.


Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of Souvenir by Governor Udom Emmanuel to the visiting envoy; Mr Wendell De Landro.

Cc: Lalasticlala

Even as today is officially a public holiday and public servants would want to be at home to celebrate Independence Day, His Excellency, Gov Abu Sani Bello chose to lead his team to the field to see first hand the level of damage on some of our federal roads so to enable him further his advocacy for the needed and long delayed intervention.

The Governor interacted with travelers who registered their complaints. His Excellency promised to continue to do as much he can until the much awaited Federal Intervention arrives.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

At the Philanthropic Roundtable and Forbes Africa Awards 2020 presentation held virtually last Friday, Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo, Chief Executive Officer of Ocean Marine Security Ltd. emphasized that giving to the poor and expecting accolades was not the type of philanthropy he would like to be associated with.

Captain Okunbo, who was the first of the recipients to speak on their activities before the worldwide audience, said he prefers to do ‘quiet philanthropy’, unlike the noisy one associated with foundations that people set up to drum up publicity about themselves.

He declared: ‘God told me not to set up foundation so I am not the type to celebrate the philanthropy that I do; therefore I do it in a quiet way.
I believe that whatever one does in secret will be rewarded by God’.

Capt. Hosa, as he is fondly called, said ‘when God blesses you, it is not for you to keep it to yourself but to also use it to bless others.

Beneficiaries may talk about my philanthropy but I do not need to talk about it myself because it is not by my power but by the grace of God that I have achieved all I have in life. It is good to leave a legacy within the community and environment we operate’.

He disclosed that a lot of philanthropy he does is in providing employment for people, especially and youths and women, in the area of agriculture which he has embarked upon in a big way. By employing them, he explained, they are empowered and they can then take care of themselves and others.

The industrialist and philanthropist noted that there is a lot of arable land in Africa which can be utilised for agricultural purposes that will provide jobs for thousands and millions of people and this is why he has concentrated on agriculture which easily provides gainful employment.

‘I believe that if the youths and women are empowered in agriculture, they can earn a living and integrate themselves into the society. We need to learn to think of others, instead of ourselves, with what God has given us’.

Captain Hosa dedicated the Forbes award to the youths and all those he has impacted on with what God has given him.

Speaking in the same vein, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, who was a guest, noted that some philanthropic gestures are misdirected, stressing that donors should always ensure that what they are giving is what the recipients need and would appreciate.

He said that the COVID-19 pandemic had caused much harm to the population, but he was glad that several corporate organisations and donors had risen to the occasion to support state governments during the period.

Governor Abiodun commended Captain Hosa whom he described as his friend and brother and wished him and other awardees well in their endeavours.

The other two recipients of the Forbes award were Mahmood Ahmadu, Founder and Executive Chairman of Online Integrated Solutions Ltd. and Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan, Managing Director of First Bank Nigeria.

Other speakers during the ceremony included Baroness Martha Osamor, Former Nigerian Minister of Industry, Mrs. Onikepo Akande and Mrs. Olayinka Fayomi, Chairman of FIN, the joint organisers of the event while the moderator was foremost UK journalist, Nick Kochan.

The online roundtable discussion was supported by the World Philanthropy Network and had as its theme, ‘Harnessing the Financial Resources and Social Capital of Philanthropy to Making a Lasting Impact’.

cc: mynd44

Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo, Chairman, Ocean Marine Solutions Limited, being presented with Forbes Best of Africa Award, by Mrs. Olayinka Fayomi, Chairman, Foreign investment network in Abuja.

See Below:-

cc: mynd44

How dispute between Patrick Ononenyi Okonkwo and Eletu Odibo Royal family started
Social media and the internet were awashed this weekend by reports of a 15 year dispute over three plots of land measuring 1,700 square meters in Osapa Eti Osa between Patrick Ononenyi Okonkwo and Chief Waheed Eletu Odibo, a Lagos White cap chief and prince of the Eletu Odibo royal Family .

Patrick Ononenyi Okonkwo a Lagos-based businessman claimed the Eletu Odibo royal family tried to defraud him of 250,000 hectares of land in lekki.

His associates also claimed on his behalf that Mr Yemi Idowu, a respected property developer had colluded with Prince Eletu Odibo to prevent him from claiming the three plots land.

These claims were refuted by the Eletu Odibo royal family and Yemi Idowu this weekend through press releases.

Reports confirm that the dispute between Mr Patrick Ononenyi Okonkwo and The Eletu Odibo royal family has been in court for years and Yemi Idowu is not a party in the court case.

Yemi Idowu this weekend said he would commence legal action against the parties involved in tarnishing his image.

"Social Media should be a cause for good and freedom of Information but some crooks are determined to ruin it for others " he said

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Business mogul, Mr. Yemi Idowu, has refuted an online report claiming that he has been declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The report alleged that 250,000 hectares of land in Lekki, Lagos belonging to one Mr, Patrick Ononenyi Okonkwo was converted by Mr Idowu and Chief Waheed Eletu Odibo.

But in a swift reaction, Mr. Idowu said: “I found out that some people were trying to tarnish my image online.”
“I have never been invited to court by the EFCC or any other law enforcement agent and I was never arrested by them. I am perfectly safe and sound.

It is fake news whose purveyors I am determined to take legal action against. I thank my family members and friends for their concern over this malicious fake news. Kindly ignore the fake news. Thank you all for your concerns.”

cc: mynd44

President Muhammadu Buhari joins governing party, All Progressives Congress (APC) and Federal Executive Council (FEC) to celebrate with Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Gidahyelda Mustapha, on his 64th birthday, Sept 4th, 2020.

President Buhari sends warm greetings to family, friends, professional and political associates of the legal luminary, party stalwart and Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, whose visionary and inclusive leadership style continues to strengthen the governing party and the administration, with remarkable results.

As the SGF turns 64, the President notes, with gratitude, his sacrifices and selfless service to the nation for close to four decades, taking a stand for democracy and good governance at an early age, and working assiduously to raise structures and support causes that project the ideals of a liberal and accommodating nation, like serving in the Constituent Assembly in 1989, working on many committees and heading several government agencies.

The President affirms that Mustapha has provided strong and commendable leadership as rallying point for the Federal Executive Council, and demonstrated high level patriotism by accepting the onerous position of Chairing the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, congratulating him and the team for steadily guiding Nigerians in the midst of health and economic uncertainties.

President Buhari prays that the almighty God will continue to strengthen the SGF for greater service to the nation and humanity.

Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 3, 2020

cc: mynd44

GOV EMMANUEL VOWS TO MAKE A'IBOM AVIATION HUB IN W'AFRICA
...AS IBOM AIR ACQUIRES FIFTH AIRCRAFT

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has promised to transform the state into an aviation hub in the West African subregion.

He made the vow while announcing the arrival of the lastest Bombardier CRJ900 recently acquired by the state owned airline - Ibom Air. He further disclosed that contracts have been mobilized to commence the Maintenance Repair and Overhaul, MRO, facility and other upgrade works at the Victor Attah International Airport to attain this status before he leaves office.

He assured that the new terminal is designed to meet the highest intelligence, smart standard and will match any of the internationally ranked terminals when completed.

The new Bombardier CRJ900, with registration number 5N-BXO is the fifth aircraft to the fleet of the Akwa Ibom State-owned airline, Ibom Air.

The State Governor expressed delight for the addition and thanked God that while others are battling with the doomsday occasioned by the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Akwa Ibom people are celebrating expansion in their aviation business.

"On behalf of the government and people of Akwa Ibom State, including those in the diaspora, we appreciate God and everyone who has contributed in making this possible and we look toward to many more.
"We welcome the latest in our fleet, registration number 5N-BXO, CoVID-19 compliant", the Governor said.

He commended the management and staff of Ibom Air for their commitment and show of professionalism, as he announced the assumption of duty of Ibom Air's first female pilot, Captain Ruth Adebanwo, as pilot of the new aircraft.

"I want to most sincerely register my appreciation to the management team of Ibom Air. They've actually made us proud. I really want to thank them for their commitment and the professionalism they have displayed to make Ibom Air an airline to beat. It is an airline to beat anytime, anywhere", Governor Emmanuel assured.

He described the accolades already trailing the qualitative customer service in the state-owned airlines as expected, stating that Ibom Air has already surpassed the customer satisfaction benchmark and now building customer enthusiasm as a stock in trade.

"When I came into office as Governor, I inherited just one private aircraft, but I thank God I will not leave office with anything less than eight to nine more aircrafts, so that people can see progress and I'm sure the person that will come after me will not leave office with less than twenty five aircrafts", Governor Emmanuel said.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman, Ibom Airport Development Company Limited, Air Commodore Idongesit Nkanga rtd., commended Governor Udom Emmanuel for developing the aviation sector in the state, adding that the governor has delivered on his promises to the people as captured in the completion agenda.

He said “…we still have MRO, we still have the cargo coming up, and we have the Ibom International Terminal we have so many things coming up at this airport how else you could define progress, how else could you define governance more than what we are witnessing. Today we are going to unveil the 5th in the series of our aircraft”.

Nkanga stated that the Governor who is committed in his developmental drive will increase the number of fleets in the airline, noting that “Calabar route has commenced while Ibom Air will be airborne from Enugu International Airport from 14th September”, he said.

cc: mynd44

A man without blemish, Captain Wells Hosa Okunbo by Rt. Hon Bright Omokhodion, former Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly.

Captain Hosa Wells is a consummate philanthropist and a household word in Edo state, emanating largely from his deep impart on the lives of the common man and corporate institutions in the society. Captain Hosa Okunbo is one exceptional Benin man that has used his God given talents, time and treasury for the emancipation of the common man.

He's the hero of the unsung Nigerian who has no godfather to pillar his desires. He is the quintessential egalitarian who transcended the ropes and is today one of the 'big boys' of the evolving Nigeria neo merchantile economy. Captain has a cursory disposition towards humility and one of the most unassuming billionaires the black race has ever produced.

Captain is very passionate about his string of business and makes humongous successes of them. From industrial engineering to high tech farming, through the very highly wired terrain of oil and gas, Marine engineering, Hotels, Logistics and real estate. Recently he resorted to newspaper publications to call the Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki to order.

His very detailed and well laid out expose` of the dwindling relationship between him and the governor based largely on an unfounded misconception and fuelled by the reelection ambition of the latter, was so well articulated that the Governor had to beat a retreat and openly apologized for his reticence. Capt. Hosa enjoys enormous goodwill in the society and being a 'son' of the Palace is an added virtue to his integrity.

He's a great mobilizer of the youths of the society and understands the psychology of hunger and wants.

He creates social structures that endure through jobs and employment generation, provision of very supportive scholarship, and health care support facilities.

It is on record that he pioneered private hostel development in tertiary institutions in Edo to address the acute deficit in the accommodation of students.

He represents the new face of Edo especially in the quest for growth and development. He's most deserving of National honours and his untiring efforts in industry development, Marine engineering, direct foreign investment into Nigeria makes him outstanding for praises.

cc: mynd44

The Niger State Infrastructure Committee has announce the closure of Minna-Bida road, Lapai-Paiko road and Zungeru entrance from Bida to heavy-duty vehicles from the 15th of September, 2020 until further notice.

In a statement signed by Alh Ibrahim Balarabe Kagara, Chief of Staff and Chairman of Infrastructure Committee, according to the contractors, the high volume of traffic caused by the number of heavy duty vehicles constantly on the road is a hinderance to the completion of the reconstruction of the road.

The statement reads in part:-

"As you may be aware, the reconstruction of the Minna-Bida road has since commenced but the pace of the work has been at a pace the state government considers unacceptable. And, according to the contractors, the major hinderance is the high volume of traffic caused by the number of heavy duty vehicles constantly on the road.

"Over the years Niger State Government has been committing her limited resources to keep roads that pass through the state motor-able. But because the state links the South West to the North, and because most of the roads are federal roads connected to state roads, the repairs are reversed and the state of the roads are worsened. Many a times the traffic do not even allow contractors the space to work.

"Thus, the decision to close the Minna-Bida road, Lapai-Paiko road and Zungeru entrance from Bida is informed by the recommendations of the contractors and experts. The state government is frustrated by the state of the roads and shall no longer continue to make repairs only for heavy duty vehicles to reverse these repairs.

"The State Government will meet with all stakeholders on this new development.

"Please understand that the state’s Ministry of Justice is prepared to unleash the full wrath of the law on any person who disregards this directive."

cc: lalasticlala

Amid the din and dingdong of electioneering, the promises and propaganda of a starry-eyed era and the generous exchange of money for prospective votes as September 19 draws closer, the people of Edo State need some reality check – a deliberate and sustained reminder of the head-spinning and harrowing catalogue of cruelties, crises and crimes foisted on them by a self-serving governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

The time cannot be more auspicious for this reminder so that the people are not swayed by money and superfluous promises. They must muster all their votes to reverse the ills of the Obaseki administration by voting him out.

Considering, therefore, that many public affairs analysts, commentators, columnists and bloggers alike have recurrently written and extensively documented Obaseki’s catalogue of sins against the people, this writer would attempt to periscope those malfeasances from the perspective of the Seven Deadly Sins propounded initially by the Roman ascetic and theologian, Evagrius Ponticus, but modified in the Sixth Century by Pope Gregory 1.

Though not biblical, the Seven Deadly Sins are theological and are believed to be the precursors for other sins and further immoral behaviours. The are Pride, Greed, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, Lust, and Sloth.

Evagrius describes pride as the father of all sins and it has been deemed the devil's most prominent trait. From all indications, Obaseki’s pride drives him. Having tasted power, Obaseki’s pride skyrocketed and began to manifest in wanton corruption and whimsical selfishness at the expense of the welfare of the people.

His concatenation of crises has been predicated largely on his self-interest, nothing more, which is why the second term bid for him is a do-or-die affair. He is ready to crush anything in his way. He has been fighting those, who propelled him into power, because he thought he had seen it all and every other person was inconsequential.

It was pride that prompted Obaseki to say on television that he would not only deal with a two-term former governor of the state, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole but that he would ensure his arrest if he came anywhere near Edo State. Yet, this was the same man that sold Obaseki to the electorate and allowed him to run for office on the strength of his (Oshiomhole’s) achievements.

It was greed writ large, when Obaseki accused some phantom Edo APC leaders of fighting him for access to the state treasury to share Edo money and that he would never do so but defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he was given an automatic ticket to contest after billions of naira allegedly exchanged hands, all in a desperate bid to remain in office.

Like greed, lust is an intense longing for sex but in Obaseki’s case, his lust is for power and money and ego-tripping. And he goes about these like a bull in a China shop. His face-off with the House of Assembly exemplifies this. In 2019, Obaseki refused to order a proclamation, in line with constitutional provisions and procedure, to clear the way for the inauguration and constitution of the seventh assembly.

His reluctance was predicated on his belief that he did not have enough foot soldiers in the House as against the number loyal to Oshiomhole. He vowed that the doors of the assembly would remain shut for as long as he desired and it has remained so thereby denying the people legislative representation.

Envy is characterised by an insatiable desire – sad or resentful covetousness towards the traits or possessions of someone else. So, fighting a non-partisan, apolitical man like Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo, a wealthy businessman and philanthropist, is a clear manifestation of envy.

One of Edo’s most prominent sons and pre-eminent Nigerian, Captain Hosa’s investments in the state are in the region of billions of dollars and he, arguably, employs as many Edo indigenes as does the government. His philanthropy is felt beyond even Edo State. He is what Obaseki and his collaborators aspire to be.

Whilst he never sought anything from the Obaseki administration apart from support it with his resources, a puerile and unfounded rumour that the widely loved Captain was eyeing the governorship seat has unleashed Obaseki’s base animalistic impulses. Obaseki may not have come to the realisation yet, but confronting and impugning on the integrity of a colossus like Captain Hosa is a recipe for political obliteration.

The evidence of Obaseki’s gluttony is an extension of his greed and lust for power: He not only wants power, but he also can't get enough of it. Like all gluttons, he is leaving a mess in his wake.

Instead of discarded bones, there are a ruined economy, unhappy indigenes, insecurity and underdevelopment.

Under Obaseki, the Edo government is drunk for more money, which the people never see its impact whether on infrastructure or the economy or the life of an average indigene. For him, it is just about how to make more revenues even at the detriment of taxpayers while maintaining the second position of the most indebted state in Nigeria.

Wrath is defined as uncontrolled feelings of anger, rage and even hatred often revealing itself in the wish to seek vengeance. Who better epitomises this than Obaseki? His wrath is one of the defining features of his administration. No one is immune to his anger and vengefulness. From Oshiomhole to Captain Hosa, legislators and even the revered Oba of Benin, they have all tasted of it.

How about Senate President Ahmad Lawan, who was mandated by President Muhammadu Buhari to mediate in the face-off between Obaseki and the House of Assembly, when he blatantly refused to inaugurate the House at the appropriate time.

Upon the constitution of a 10-man reconciliatory committee last December to resolve the crises and appease the aggrieved members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, nationwide, Obaseki accused the senate president and the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Ahmed Wase, of playing a prominent role in the crisis rocking the party in the state.

He did not rest until Lawan was replaced with Chief Bisi Akande, a former governor of Osun State. The height of his wrath, perhaps, was the demolition of the hotel of Tony Kabaka Adun, whose only offence was that he is an ally of Oshiomhole. Despite a court order restraining the state government from demolishing the hotel building and appeals from well-meaning indigenes and prominent Nigerians, Obaseki still went ahead to do so citing nebulous excuses.

Sloth, according to its proponent, has different meanings but, in this context, is defined as the absence of interest or habitual disinclination to exertion – a failure to do things that one should do, therefore, allowing evil to reign, because good people failed to act. The dictionary meanings also include laziness and wilful inactivity.

Thus, it is ironic, tragic even that Obaseki has been blaming his failings on the APC on which platform he rode to power in 2016 but which he defected from in June 2020. He has brazenly refused to do the work he was elected for, thereby, taking the state on a retrogressive expedition!

Every human – whether the artist or artisan; cleric or clerisy; the prosperous or proletariat; politician or professional – have their failing. But Obaseki departs from his predecessors and the character components that Edo State requires in a leader and one who can take them out of the doldrums, because he is unable to control his impulses and manage his sins.

So, the likelihood of him repenting or changing is not even remote and, therefore, does not deserve a vote from the people of Edo State!

- Ibiyinka, a political analyst, lives in Lagos

cc: mynd44

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom state and wife Mrs Martha Emmanuel were last Sunday honoured when the Global Mission Plaza, Ibadan built by Bishop Francis Wale Oke was named after them.

The event marked the commencement of the 38th Holy Ghost Convention of the Sword of the Spirit Ministries, and the 38th anniversary of entering into full time ministry of the Presiding Bishop of the Sword of the Spirit Ministries, Bishop Wale Oke.

Governor Emmanuel who performed the inauguration of the center, commended Bishop Oke for his mentorship role in the country, adding that he was a beneficiary of the clergy's teachings.

"I thank God for a day like this. Our father, Bishop Wale Oke, has imparted in me so much, especially in this political terrain.

"I want to join my faith with others to say that there will be an increase that is beyond his expectation,” Governor Emmanuel added.

The ceremony which was witnessed by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Prelate of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Dr Ola Makinde, among other dignitaries at the Olubadan Estate, Ibadan.

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, who performed the dedication, prayed for the success of Governor Udom Emmanuel's administration in Akwa Ibom state. 

Adeboye also prayed for Oyo State Governor Makinde’s administration and for Nigeria. 

Media Unit
Govt House, Uyo
31/08/20

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Niger State government to establish a “Debt Management Bureau” and Niger State Procurement Board.

The Niger State commissioner of finance on Wednesday informed press men that the state is the process of establishing a Debt Management Bureau as well as grant full autonomy to the state procurement board.

The state’s debt sustainability ratio is in the lower 20 per cent threshold,which happens to be one of the lowest in the country. According to the Domestic Debt Data for the 36 states of the federation and the FCT as at March 31,2020, Niger State is the 6th lowest on the list.

Governor Abubakar Sani Bello’s administration is ensuring the state’s debt profile remains within a manageable/sustainable threshold.

The current debt profile of the state includes bonds entered into by previous administrations,bailout,budget support funds from the Federal Government amongst other things.

In order to properly manage and strengthen the debt Management Processes,the government has decided to set up a Debt Management bureau.

The bureau when established will give clear processes to the debt of the state.
Furthermore,a special account, where certain percentage of the state income will be kept for the management of its debt, will be set up.
This is to ensure transparency while assuring stakeholders that government is determined to honour all its financial obligations at all times.

The commissioner also stated that,full autonomy will be granted to the state Procurement Board to enable it operate without interference from any quarters.

The Commissioner for Finance who was the chairman of the Board,will be replaced by a retired High Court judge or a retired civil servant that must have risen to the position of a Permanent Secretary before leaving service.

When the bill is passed and assented to, the Director General of the Board will be screened and confirmed by the House of Assembly. Other members of the Board will be representatives of the Ministry of Justice, local government, planning and the organised labour.

The procurement board is also establishing an e-procurement portal to facilitate for e-procurement.

This is to ensure transparency,ease of access by the public without physical contact as well as provide an independent and level playing ground in procurement process, the proposed bill is expected to provide legal backing for the e-procurement.

Consequently,two bills are being proposed to the house of Assembly;one on the establishment of the Debt Management Bureau and the other for Niger State Procurement Board.

All this effort by Niger Government is to block all leakages, ensure transparency and promote accountability.

Cc: @mynd44

TStv Africa, a Nigerian Direct to Home Pay TV operator, has offered employment to over 100 job seekers this year alone in anticipation of beginning operations according to a reliable source close to the company.

This has come at a period where investments by firms are impeded largely due to the uncertainties that come with the COVID-19 pandemic, limited knowledge about the duration of the outbreak, the effectiveness of policy measures, and the reaction of economic agents to these measures—as well as negative investor sentiments, which are causing turbulence in capital markets around the world and leading to loss of employment in some industries.

Despite the hard consequences of the pandemic on businesses, TStv is reportedly determined to meet the popular demand of Nigerians for a Pay TV that factors the Nigerian economic situation in its operations and billing system.

A close friend of the MD of the company who spoke on condition of anonymity revealed that TStv has cleared all issues with their dealers and industry regulators who are now fully on board for a new launch date for the Pay TV operator to begin its operation, latest by the end of this year.

While the source refused to discuss TStv’s setback after its first launching in 2017, he claimed that “businesses all over the world are not immune to challenges, it is all in the past now.

TStv faced a lot of challenges and I think we should sometimes talk more about their consistency and the resolve of Dr. Bright Echefu to bring viewers something unique and economically sustainable to the average person.

He said, “TStv has already acquired an expansive operation base in Idu industrial area of Abuja, while their Lagos office is also set to commence operations anytime soon.

I am also aware of the recruitment exercise into the marketing department and the customer service which absorbed about 30 to 40 staff to bring them to a total of about 100 operating staff members as we speak.

They will be launching soon but I can’t give you an actual date for it as I am not a TStv spokesperson.”


cc: mynd44

The Infrastructure Committee Chairman, Alh. Ibrahim Balarabe Kagara and Hon Commisioner of Works, Engr Ibrahim Panti with his Perm Sec and Director Civil Engineering of the ministry were at Broadcasting road to inspect the ongoing dualisation of the road.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

The volume, velocity and variety of campaigns of calumny against Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo, a billionaire businessman and philanthropist, in the last few weeks, underpin the consensus among the elite and the average electorate in Edo State, that having wilfully taken on some of its illustrious sons, Governor Godwin Obaseki is an ill wind that blows no one any good and should be voted out of Government House by September 19th. Obaseki does not deserve pity of any kind, really. 

He self-destructed by scrapping with well meaning apolitical but wealthy Edo sons, who are now all out to see his back. A statesman like Capt Hosa, for instance, is the centripetal force of the governorship election with just one mandate: chase Obaseki out.
Prior, he would have remained in the background, because of his professed non-political stance.
But the governor and his administration had mindlessly and serially besmirched him and his businesses. For Capt Hosa, the September 19th governorship election is a battle he is committed to helping Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu and the All Progressives Congress, APC, win, not for any ulterior motive but the need to rescue Edo from the impostor in Government House. 

Fighting needless battles with people especially those that have impacted the lives of the people for decades remains one of Obaseki’s mortal undoing. He sadly and patently epitomises and embodies the biting aphorism that no man is wise enough or good enough to be trusted with unlimited power. 

Pre-2016, Obaseki was dutiful, loyal and meek; virtues that won him over to the Edo State elite, notably, Capt Hosa. For any right-thinking government, whether state, national or international, Capt Hosa is an ace in the hole – an effective adviser and sounding board for economic policies and directions.

That Obaseki failed to capitalise on his hand of fellowship is one of the major indicators of his administrative and governance ineptness and ignorance. 

Yet, in the early days of his administration, Captain Hosa was one of Obaseki’s cheerleaders – supporting, rooting and collaborating with him to make Edo work for the generality of the people.

He contended that if Obaseki succeeded, it is the people of the state that would be the greatest beneficiary and if he did otherwise, it is still the people that would bear the brunt. 

Knowing Captain Hosa means knowing a man at peace with himself, humanity and his creator. Undeniably one of Nigeria’s most successful and humane businessmen with interests in diverse sectors of the economy spanning petroleum, marine, construction engineering and agriculture, Captain Hosa has given as much to humanity and his native Edo State nay Nigeria as much he has been blessed by God.

Over the years, much as he is not a partisan politician, he has always supported progressive politics and those with the passion and devotion to better the lots of the people.

Because of his commitment to making Obaseki and his administration succeed, Capt Hosa, in 2016, had a meeting with the new governor on how to make the state an investment hub to expand revenue base, drive economic growth, and lessen the financial burden on the public purse so the state government could spend even more on public works.

Believing that he and the governor were in sync, Captain Hosa sponsored him and his officials on an investments pathfinder’s trip to China, because of his firm conviction in private sector-led participation as being the key to the economic and industrial development of the state On another occasion, as a guest of the governor at the Edo Convention in Toronto, Canada, he announced the donation of five houses valued at N50million to support Obaseki’s housing project and earn him the goodwill of Edo people at home and in the Diaspora.

Capt Hosa did all of these and more without necessarily expecting any patronage from the state government.

The eventual point of departure between him and Obaseki, according to Capt Hosa, was when he started an avoidable fight with Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, the then APC National Chairman.
“At a time, I spent almost three hours of my precious time in the governor’s house, explaining to him the need to build synergy between him and in the best interest of the development of our state. He was blunt that he was not interested in any peace talk and that he was embarking on a fight to the finish with Comrade Oshiomhole,” Okunbo recalled, in an open letter to President Muhammadu Buhari and the Edo people.

A man, who holds firmly that politics is about morals and values, and that nobody needs amoral friends with shitty values, Capt Hosa said he decided to hands off the matter, having done all he could do to engender a peaceful atmosphere for governance and development of Edo. 

At the time also, it had become apparent that Obaseki’s style of governance was anti-people and divisive while his strong suit is demonising those who don't share his base political beliefs. Worse, Obaseki and his rapacious crew pandered towards venality while he made a botch of the state’s economy. 

They deified and enrobed him in transcendent garb without commensurate achievements or substance and he believed his own hype and turned a deaf ear to voices of reason. He did virtually nothing to assure the populace that people can stay connected and respect each other even if they differed politically. 

Then, Obaseki began a reign of onslaught against Captain Hosa. First was the sponsored and sustained rumour that he was interested in the governorship seat. Despite his strong rebuttal, the Obaseki camp feasted on it. Later, Obaseki, in a press statement, blatantly accused Oshiomhole and Captain Hosa of plans to recruit thugs to disrupt the September 19th election.

Subsequently, an aide of the governor, one Marvellous Zibiri, wrote an incendiary article wherein he described Capt. Hosa as a ‘drug baron’ because he was investigated by the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in 1995 and given a clean bill of health. 

It bears recalling that after the NDLEA absolved him of any crime, Capt Hosa instituted legal proceedings against the agency at the Miscellaneous Offences Tribunal, Lagos, where it was established that the prosecution had not made a prima facie case against him that would warrant the tribunal to ask him to defend himself. 

Thus, Hon. Justice Tijani Abdullahi, who presided over the tribunal, discharged and acquitted him on a ‘no case’ submission. It was this case that Zibiri referenced and caused to be widely published and syndicated. The article was one of many calculated attempts to bring Capt Hosa into disrepute.

Although Captain Hosa fought back, got Zibiri arrested and the young man, who realised his mistakes, openly apologised. For a man with a large heart, Captain Hosa forgave him and brought him like a son. Zibiri had since written a few articles, doting over the manner of man that Captain Hosa is. 

In an open letter to President Muhammadu Buhari and the people of Edo, Capt Hosa stated bluntly: “This spate of coordinated attacks, with their attendant mode of vicious execution, can best be described as the unconscionable actions by attack dogs and hirelings of the desperate Edo State Government on the watch of Governor Godwin Obaseki.”

According to him, as a good-hearted Edo son, he did not deserve the embarrassing treatment even as his pedigree will never let him to deliberately concoct any wrong against his state and Obaseki. 
“I am, however, shocked, bewildered and pained to observe that despite my very sincere, robust and stated commitment to support the anticipated pace of infrastructure development, progress and other social investment initiatives through the deployment of my modest goodwill and network of capital, for which I am eternally grateful to God, alas, the response has been to paint my person with a brush of public odium that verges on mischief.”

Well, the die is cast now. The skunk at the garden party in Edo State will be marched out in September. But the honour, respect and reputation that Captain Hosa had built over the years remain immutable, no matter the antics of detractors.

What more, Okunbo is set to be honoured soon on September 11 for the Best of Africa awards, a few days to the governorship election. You can now understand why he remains the ace in Edo’s hole. 

*Taminu lives and works in Abuja, the nation’s capital

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

AKWA IBOM STATE GOVERNOR, UDOM EMMANUEL CELEBRATES PRELATE MBANG AT 84
 
 Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel has sent his congratulations to Dr. Sunday Mbang (CON) the Prelate Emeritus of the Methodist  Church of Nigeria  on the occasion of his 84th Birthday.
 
In a Birthday wish released by his Chief Press Secretary and Senior Special Assistant, Media- Ekerete Udoh, the Governor  message read thus “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Akwa Ibom State, I write to felicitate with you on the occasion of your 84th Birthday.
 
Your Eminence, you have been a blessing to our dear State, our Nation and in particular, my Administration since May 29th, 2015. You have blessed us with the gift of your wise counsel, admonishing those elements that are inimical to the growth of our State and celebrating peace, security and development which in the main form the linchpin of our governance philosophy.
 
As the Leader of  the Fathers in Faith in our State, you stood ramrod straight, lending the moral authority which your voice represents and challenging our people to do the RIGHT thing in line with the values which our ONLY GOD has bestowed upon  the RIGHT man  on the throne.
 
My dear Prelate Sir, as you turn 84, today, I want to place on record again, that we treasure your support, your prayers, your spiritual guidance and your faith in the Akwa Ibom Enterprise, our collective identity, our essence, our brotherhood and the promise of our Founding Fathers, which I am working hard to bring into proper and sustainable realization.
 
My dear Prelate, I wish you robust health and many years of continuous fruitful service to our dear State in particular and the Nation in general.
 
Once again Happy Birthday Sir!

cc: mynd44

Edo Assembly Invasion: APC Demands Arrest And Prosecution Of Adjoto, Iyoha, For Mobilization And Illegal Arming Of Thugs

The Edo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress has called on the Nigeria Police Force to immediately arrest and prosecute Mr. Kabiru Adjoto and Osaigbovo Iyoha, both of whom are senior aides of Governor Godwin Obaseki, over their alleged involvement in the hiring of armed thugs in the invasion of the Edo Assembly complex earlier this month.

At least seven thugs were arrested within the Edo Assembly Complex on the 6th of August when the embattled Edo Governor, alongside his Deputy, Mr. Philip Shaibu, led hoodlums and other party supporters to block and vandalize the Assembly complex in a bid to deny entry to majority seventeen elected members.

The arrested thugs, who were brought before a Judge at the Benin High Court on Monday, were caught with five double-barrel long guns, two single barrel long guns, and 10 live cartridges and have reportedly confessed during interrogation that they were hired and provided the illegal firearms by Mr. Kabiru Adjoto and Mr. Osaigbovo Iyoha.

At a press briefing on Tuesday, Col. David Imuse, the Edo APC Chairman, charged the Police to commence an immediate investigation of the involvement of the identified aides of Governor Godwin Obaseki who, according to him, have no constitutional immunity and are thus liable to arrest and prosecution.

He also tasked the Police to resist an alleged attempt by the Edo State Government to unlawfully release the seven suspects standing trial for unlawful possession of firearm and disturbance of public peace.

He said: “The police must wake up to its responsibilities. These two people mentioned are not immune and should be arrested and investigated.”

"It is very disturbing that a government that ought to protect its citizens is encouraging criminals to unleash mayhem on Edo people.”

“We find this development very disturbing and we are charging the Police to carry out a comprehensive investigation on the established ties and nexus between the criminal group, members of the Edo State Government, and illegal purchase and distribution of firearms.”

“It goes without saying that the case, wherein the suspects have already allegedly confessed their ties to the Edo State Government, further affirms our outcry on the illegal arms buildup carried out by Governor Godwin Obaseki and his Deputy, Mr. Philip Shaibu, through a retired Police officer from Kogi State, Mr. Aruna Yusuf, who continues to act with impunity.”

Mr. Osaigbovo Iyoha and Kabiru Adjoto have been trailed by several reports and accusations of involvement in violence and illegal ties to cult groups. Back in 2017, Kabiru Adjoto, as a member of the Edo Assembly, led a similar invasion of the Chamber when he attacked the then Speaker, Hon. Justin Okonoboh, and triggered a violent fisticuff which made the rounds on the internet and drew widespread condemnation.

cc: mynd44

As the appointed day for the Edo people to choose their preferred governor for the next four years approaches, politicians from various camps and parties are bracing up, leaving no stone unturned to ensure victory for their candidates, apprehensions are rife and political anxiety are shored up among residents and observers alike. 

 
Drumbeats and counter-drumbeats of war could be heard at deafening volumes. The closer the election date, the more ingenious some of the political camps have become in their bid to outwit one another.
 
There is no doubt that the forthcoming Edo governorship election fits as a prototype for the 2023 general election, largely as the real battle for "Osadebe House" remains squarely between the duo of incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Pastor Odigie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
 
Both the APC and PDP have worked tirelessly to ensure that enough friends are made and are converted to loyal voters for the September 19 poll. 
 
Politics anywhere in the world is a number’s game and the numbers have to be accumulated. Both Obaseki and Ize-Iyamu have been traversing the length and breadth of the state – from Edo South to Edo Central, not leaving out the much-coveted Edo North senatorial electorate – all in the bid to shop for friends, who would be converted into favourable voters.
 
Though usually the outcome of any election involving an incumbent office holder, particularly in Nigeria has almost always been predictable, because they usually sway every state apparatus, including the security agents and even electoral umpires to their advantage, usually in a manner that makes mockery of democracy. 
 
Apart from squandering state funds illegally on an election, which usually is their (the politicians) selfish pursuit, it has also become a wise tactic for politicians to woo voters and political influencers with posts, appointments, contracts and other patronages. The power of incumbency is usually arrogated to the advantage of the incumbent.
 
 
However, the incumbent in the Edo election, Governor Obaseki has been in the thick of one storm or the other since the warm-up began for the forthcoming polls. He has had a seemingly endless battle of supremacy against his immediate predecessor and benefactor, Comrade Adams Aliyu Oshiomole. But the former APC national chairman is just one out of the many hurdles awaiting Mr. Obaseki in his bid to have a second term as a governor. 
 
That the political combat for the control of APC in Edo State between Oshiomole and Obaseki ripped Oshiomhole of his APC chairmanship garb is no longer news, but the laurel won by the governor against his former boss, who many believe is neither down nor dead, will be a major albatross for him. 
 
The former governor is surely not relenting in his bid to assert himself, not only in Edo State but also at the national level, where the governor collaborated with some anti-Oshiohmole forces to edge him out of office and he is enjoying the support of many well-meaning Edo indigenes, most of who advised the governor to toe the path of peace without success. 
 
Not a few Edo State indigenes and non-indigenes were displeased with the governor over the roles he played in Oshiohmole’s ouster as the APC National Chairman and now is apparently a time he would be paid back in his own coins. 
 
A major drawback of the Edo governor is his inability to apply enough Emotional Intelligence (EI) and power of retrogressive thinking. These have to do with the way people weigh their weaknesses and strengths. 
 
Obaseiki naively elevated individual brilliance above emotional intelligence, leading to his failure to articulate the pros and cons of his actions.  Whereas, in management, emotional intelligence is 70 per cent of application while individual brilliance is only 30 per cent. Thus, successful leaderships across the world in history have thrived on this fact.
 
The governor didn't consider the feelings of other Edo APC members, when he turned external forces against a man believed to have over pampered the people during his eight years rule as governor. He fought his predecessor, a considered (single) enemy and in the process, offended a greater number of the Edo people.
 
A man, who could not differentiate between his strengths and weaknesses, is not fit to lead a people or else he would lead to needless crisis. In additional, he lacks emotional maturity.
 
No wonder Oshiomole is taking to his knees in apology for introducing an “impostor” and an alleged “forger” to the people in 2016. He likened the governor to “a man with the propensity of running a one-man show in a democracy.”
 
The informed Edo people believe that Governor Obaseki placed personal interest above the common good of the Edo people, especially, those of the APC as he joined forces with perceived enemies to oust a man considered the only voice Edo State could boast of in terms of representation at the national level. He played the spoiler, who cares less for others and so selfishly stirred up the dirt at the bottom of the well after fetching enough water for himself, supposedly. 
 
For this reason, the Edo people are crossed with their governor and he would only measure the impact of his misdemeanor after the election. He was simply shortsighted and parochial, when he joined alien forces to oust Oshiomole.
 
Oshiomole already played the party supremacy card. The next line of action will be to deploy his political sagacity and his clique of friends within and outside the state to prevent his political mortification as schemed by Obaseki. Oshiomole will play this game with and for his pride. This is more so, because he has a lot of people that matter on his side. 
 
Added to that is the fact that the APC leadership will also advance all available political machineries for their victory in the Edo election.
 
President Muhammadu Buhari, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Oshiomhole and an array of APC leaders at the national level are all in one accord in their quest to retain Edo for APC. It will go down in the records as the dirtiest political walloping on them (the APC hierarchy) if Obaseki succeeds in deposing Oshiomole as chairman, as is widely believed, and then wins the governorship election for PDP. 
 
The APC for who they are, are under immense pressure to win the election – Edo being the only APC state in the South-south. Pride is at stake. Another factor that might impede Governor Obaseki, which is another clear indication of his poor emotional intelligence, is the issue of the 14 non-commissioned house members, who were sidelined on his instructions. 
 
Edo State House of Assembly has been operated by just 10 out of 24 elected members. The 10 members favoured by Obaseki were inaugurated at an "odd hours” on June 17, 2019, and his agents have prevented the others from serving their people ever since.
 
In a recent letter to the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN) and signed by their counsel, Dr. Ehiogie West-Idahosa of West Idahosa & Co., the disenfranchised representatives of the people, now 17, including three out of the ten inaugurated since last year, who have all pledged support for Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, candidate of the APC, they urged the AGF to use his good offices to arrest the desecration of democracy in Edo State.
 
In the letter with the reference number WIC/AB/W2/1024/20 the aggrieved lawmakers, also loyal to Oshiomhole, said: "Contrary to the standard practice of inaugurating the House with possibly all members present, the governor, on June 17, 2019, chose to inaugurate the House at odd hours with only about nine members in attendance". They revealed further that the governor has frustrated every entreaty to have their inauguration effected.
 
The partial inauguration of Edo legislative house, according to the lawmakers, underlined the disequilibrium in the political stability of the state and the resultant insecurity that had characterised the state. This, they explained, has shut about 60 per cent of the Edo people out of the scheme of things, denying them the benefits of constituency projects, employment, judicious allocation of resources and other dividends of democracy. 
 
This is also believed to have snowballed into a general lull in the economic activation of those people and places, increased crime rate and the palpable tension generated by the unbecoming violent clashes of the pro-Obaseki lawmakers and the already agitated uncommissioned faction believed to be loyal to former governor and deposed national chairman of the APC.
 
In the protest letter, signed by West-Idahosa, the principal partner, and titled, ‘Urgent and nationalistic appeal to intervene in the restoration of constitutional democracy in Edo State of Nigeria’, dated August 3, 2020, the lawmakers said; “Since then, the Assembly has been run by nine members for no justifiable reason whatsoever. By failing to inaugurate about 14 members-elect of the House, there is a huge social and political disequilibrium in the state.”
 
The greatest challenge for Obaseki at the polls will be the over 60 per cent of the total Edo State constituents, who have been denied representation on the floor of the house. It implies that the 17 house members and their teeming supporters will work against the governor at the polls. How he intends to convert this larger and aggrieved populace, mostly in APC dominated zones, into supporters and voters remains to be seen. 
 
Again, he has lost the grassroots and no one wins any election with this kind of posturing, more so, the likes of Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo, whom he turned to an enemy overnight is loved by many people in the grassroots and worst still, his challenger, Ize-Iyamu, is a well-known grassroots politician. 
 
The infraction of partial inauguration of the house poses serious wide reaching criminal implications for the present Edo State Government. For instance, the state has operated on a budget of about N179billion for the 2020 fiscal year, purportedly passed by the same decimated House of Assembly. Now, if as much as 60 per cent were denied their rightful commissioning by Governor Obaseki, which means they were hindered from performing their legislative duties, and by extension over sixty per-cent of Edo people were denied their constitutionally guaranteed right to be represented in a democracy, one can one safely say, and be right, that Governor Obaseki is operating an unlawful budget. 
 
Recall that Justice J. O. Ogebe of Oyo State Appeal Court in a ruling on December 1, 2006, had declared the impeachment of former Oyo State governor, Senator Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, illegal, null and void, partly because the house did not muster the required majority vote for any bill to become a law. 
 
Only 18 out of the stipulated 22, which should be the stipulated majority in a 33-member house declared the then governor impeached and installed his erstwhile deputy, Adebayo Alao Akala, as governor. Keen observers are also looking forward to the legally minded to interpret the law and proffer clarifications as to the legality or otherwise of operating a budget that fell short of constitutional requirements.
 
Whether a budget, which demands a majority vote by house members, but passed into law by only the House Speaker and a few other lawmakers, who are less than the legally defined simple majority is a workable legal document or not will be decided by the Nigerian judiciary. But before then, the electorate in the September 19 election, are most likely to pass unfavorable judgment on the outgoing administration. 
 
This is because to an average informed Edo person, Obaseki committed an impious crime and ought to be impeached. Every Kobo he has spent from the illegal budget is a crime and punishable under the law. Another oddity that will work against Obaseki is the demographic distribution of Edo State. 
 
Both Obaseki and Ize-Iyamu are from Edo South senatorial district. It is however instructive to repeat that the challenger is a respected grassroots politician, loved by his kith and kin. Their love for him has always been demonstrated during elections even when he was not in the central ruling party. For instance, neither Obaseki nor any other politician stand any chance to win against Ize-Iyamu in any election as far as the senatorial district is concerned.
 
He has always won and will win the upcoming elections if history and statistics could be valid indices of accurate forecast. Ize-Iyamu is a politician with strong personal political structures on ground, from the pre-APC days, when he founded the Grace Group, a structure that successfully midwifed the ACN and later APC. Ize-Iyamu is a man respected and loved by the who-is-who in Edo politics.
 
Unlike the incumbent, who relies on syndicated votes from other regions chiefly Edo north, where he rode on the Oshiomole factor to the government house, presently, Ize-Iyamu and Oshiomole are in the same camp against Godwin Obaseki. And boosting the rating of their camp is the fact that nearly all the notable politicians in the state, have now signed up for the Ize-Iyamu ambition. 
 
The APC candidate will naturally carry the day in Oshiomole's North senatorial district. The combination of a split victory from Edo North and Central senatorial districts coupled with an assured maximum vote from the South will see Ize-Iyamu coasting to a landslide victory in the upcoming elections.
 
Though the Central senatorial district, for the consideration of 2024 is likely to support incumbent Obaseki, simply because standing with the governor and ensuring his victory might see the baton of leadership switching in their direction come 2024. But votes from this district are the least among the three divisions in the state. 
 
Worst still, the consideration they might have for Obaseki could as well be overwhelmed by the strong ties between Ize-Iyamu and major politicians in this region. 
 
Ize-Iyamu has been a friend of the influential Igbinedion family since the 80s, during the Zero Party. He was an assistant to Lucky Igbinedion as a local government chairman and became the Chief of Staff when Lucky became governor, before eventually making him the Secretary to the State Government. All these factors have definitely propelled the unusual crowd and personalities seen during each of his campaigns. 
 
For instance, when he took his campaign to Edo Central, apart from his running mate, Mallam Gani Audu and Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, the Federal Commissioner representing Edo in the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Mr. Henry Idahagbon, the Edo Central Campaign Director-general and two-time member, Federal House of Representatives, Mr Patrick Ikhariale, two-time former Commissioner, Chief Frank Okafi Erewele, the strong man of Edo Central politics, Chief Francis Inegbeneki, former Civil Commissioner, Ken Ihensekhien, Mr Abu Momodu among others were present to lend their support.
 
In Edo North, the list is inexhaustible with personalities like former Deputy Governor, Rev. Peter Obadan; Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Senator Francis Alimikhena, the member representing Akoko-Edo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. These and many more political heavyweights appear to have deserted Obaseki for an old friend and ally, Ize-Iyamu.
 
Knowing full well that the crowds seen at political rallies may not be the true representation of the peoples' love for a contestant, the calibre of politicians, who have signified their disapproval of Obaseki's re-election is a better pointer to the fact that he has been roundly rejected by his people, and as such, cannot and will not win the September 19 governorship election in Edo State.
 
*Tejumola wrote from Abuja

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

By Winifred Udosen

Obong Paul Asuquo 'Politics' Ekpo is a household name synonymous with loyalty, perseverance, team spirit, and forthrightness in service. His several years of service to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, left an indelible mark that will remain a reference point for excellent stewardship.

He must be relishing the record of being the longest-serving State chairmen of the big umbrella party, who has served two governors of the State, Senator Godswill Akpabio in his second term as governor and both terms of Governor Udom Emmanuel.

From Nkana village in Iman Ibom clan of Etinan Local Government Area, the proud son of late Chief Asuquo Ekpo, worked his way into the annals of Akwa Ibom political history as a remarkable steward, a loyal partyman and an outstanding community leader.

Having identified his calling early, the enigma obtained formal training in political scientist and became a career administrator, who has put several years working with reputable institutions, stands tall as one of the founding members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State. He patiently climbed the proverbial rungs of Akwa Ibom political ladder, acquiring experiences and gaining crucial life skills including accountability and dedication to duty, which have enabled him attain great heights.

Before his emergence as State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in 2012, he was appointed as the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry and by July 2008, he was re-assigned to Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. Obong Paul has been lauded by both governors Godswill Akpabio and Udom Emmanuel as well as party faithful as a trusted, dependable, consistent, accountable and rugged politician who fully understands the dynamics and the terrain of Akwa Ibom politics.

In recognition of his outstanding service to the PDP and development of Akwa Ibom State, the addition of the honorarium “Obong” (king) and the sobriquet “Politics” as a putative to fully reflect the depth of his resilience, trustworthiness, party loyalty and selfless sacrifices to the socio-political growth and development of the State thus Obong Paul ‘Politics’ Ekpo, is a household name across the state.

As a ruling party at the federal level, PDP in the state sailed through general elections for 16 years without any serious hitch. However, the game changed in 2015, when the hurriedly assembled All Progressives Congress, APC, took over the federal government. The party weathered the political storm for four years untill it came to a defining moment ahead of the 2019 general elections, when the former governor, Senator Godswill Akpabio, decided on his infamous 'uncommon defection' to embrace the broom.

Against all manner of tantalizing offers, insinuations, uncertainties and intimidating posturing by the opposition who boasted of federal might, Obong Paul ‘Politics’ Ekpo stood firm and resolute as he patriotically paddled the canoe of PDP across the stormy seas to a safe shore.

Political analysts describe Ekpo as a party leader with uncommon candour and dexterity which has helped him work with two state governors with very different ideology. "He may not be the most perfect human being but he has one strong point that counts for him - loyalty. This loyalty is laced with an uncanny humility that disarms even the strongest of his opponents. He has a penchant for result maybe because of his experience in the private sector before joining politics".

This position is corroborated in an eulogy by Borono Bassey, the State Publicity Secretary of PDP, in an article titled "Paul Ekpo: Bracing the finishing line in style", where he states that Ekpo "had resolved to go all the way out to not just ensure he sweats it out in building a stronger and more vibrant party that continually orchestrate victorious streaks in elections, but also positioning the party as the most admired and acceptable choice in the eyes of the Akwa Ibom electorate".

It is without argument that Obong Paul Ekpo has written his signature in Akwa Ibom politics as a trustworthy steward with capacity to deliver. Of course, his remarkable track record is undeniable, having led the party to two very significant victories in 2015 and four years later, when the party had to prove itself as the preferred brand in Akwa Ibom State.

Cc: Lalasticlala, mynd44

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has insisted that Akwa Ibom State sitting on 25% of Nigeria's oil and gas reserve, deserves at least a petroleum depot to regig the state economy and open up job opportunities for the youths.

He has also maintained that Akwa Ibom is strategically positioned in the Gulf of Guinea, and as such airlines should have no reason going to other West African countries to refuel or service their aircrafts if the Federal government partners with the state for its rich natural potentials to be effectively utilized.

Government Emmanuel made the call on Friday, when a delegation the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, led the Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, on a courtesy visit on him at Government House, Uyo.

He also advocated that unbundling the oil and gas sector would increase job opportunities and rapid growth of the country's economy. 

The courtesy visit on the Governor was a precursor of a strategic retreat by the egg heads in the management of the country's petroleum industry,  holding in Uyo.

He described the choice of Uyo as significant, explaining that with the developments at the Victor Attah International Airport, the 21 storey smart building, excellent security, good network of roads and other infrastructure, the state has been repositioned for a strategic role as a  logistic center of the oil and gas sector.

"The new terminal building we are currently constructing, has the most latest technology and intelligence facilities and when completed, will rank the best seen anywhere in West Africa."

Harping on the need for partnership for modular refineries, Mr Emmanuel opined that, "modular refineries or petrochemicals should be totally liberated from whatever could be the bottlenecks to  create more job opportunities and stimulate a whole lot of economic activities."

He appealed to the Petroleum  Resources management team to look into the vast untapped opportunities in the oil and gas sector with a view to unbundling it for job and wealth creation.

Earlier, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and leader of the delegation, Chief Timipre Sylva had said the chose Akwa Ibom for their retreat because of the peaceful, scenic environments and rich cultural heritage of the people.

Sylva, who described Akwa Ibom as his second home, being an inlaw of the state, commended the Governor and his people for the peace and developments o far recorded.

He said the federal government was committed to revamping the refineries in country and assured that work on the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt refinery would commence very soon.

"Myself and the team went to River State to look at the Port Harcourt refinery, we have promised this country that we will rehabilitate at least one of these refineries within the shortest possible time.

"We visited the Port Harcourt refinery because the programme rehabilitation is about to begin and we hope that work on Port Harcourt refinery will start first quarter next year”, he added.

He expressed appreciation to the Governor and people of the state for the warm reception accorded him and the board members on their arrival in the state.

Cc: mynd44