₦airaland Forum

There was great jubilation on Thursday 13th June,2024 by pupils and students of State Primary School and Community Secondary School Ihugbogo,Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State as the schools received donation of one hundred desks,twelve chairs,tables to the schools by the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas(NLNG) GMOU Ekpeye Cluster .


The representative of the Company,Mr Simon while presenting the items to the schools disclosed it is part of their Corporate Social Responsibility to contribucte to educational development and advancement in the community while noting that quality education is the best gift anybody or organization can give to children.

Mr Simon urged the pupils and students to reciprocate the kind gesture of the company and the cluster board by imbibing habit of hard work.


Ochoma Peace Head Mistress of State Primary School and Mr Iwerebe Brightons,Principal of Community Secondary School Ihugbogo who received the items thanked the company and the cluster board for their kind gesture.


They promised to put the items in good use beneficial to the pupils and students of the school and ensure the property are maintained.

The company and members of the ekpeye cluster were cheered by the Pupils and Students of both schools who were very delighted.


Our correspondent reports that the Community Representative Ekeakita Hector Chinem who is also Board Of Trustee(BOT) Member representing Ihugbogo Community in NLNG GMOU Ekpeye Cluster, Comr. Benjamin Ewoh Ihugbogo Community Secretary, Mr. Ukachukwu Egbuluka as Landlord Representative of Ihugbogo Community were all in attendance.

CP Disu Lays Foundation For 28 Shops, 12 Rooms POWA Office Complex In Rivers State







The Rivers State Commissioner of Police CP Olatunji Disu on Thursday 18th April, 2024 laid foundation for twelve room Police Officers Wives Association(POWA) office complex and twenty-eight shops at Old GRA PortHarcourt POWA's Secretariat and Igwuruta Police Division respectively.

CP Disu while laying the foundation for the projects, commended POWA for the vision and being a support and pillar to their Police Officer's husbands.

The Rivers Police Boss also disclosed that the award of Best Command Commissioner of Police he received was for all Police Officers and POWA members.

Earlier in her remarks, the wife of Commissioner of Police in Rivers and Chairperson of POWA,Rivers State Mrs Olufunmilola Disu said the twelve room office complex project will add a face lift to the secretariat at large .

Mrs Disu explained that the twenty -eight shops project will sustain the mutual underatanding that has been in existence between the Police and the community and also create more robust environment where business will thrive.

The POWA Chairperson said the body hope to see the projects completed on schedule.


The POWA Chairperson also thanked the CP and members of his management team for attending the event.

The Deputy Commissioner of Police(DCP) Operations Olubenga Adepoju in his speech pledged commitment of members of the Police management team in the state in making sure the project is completed in record time.


Highlights of the event was the laying of foundation of the projects by CP Disu.

Our correspondent reports that the CP Disu was also given an award by members of POWA in recognition of his efforts in ensuring a peaceful Rivers State.

IPMAN Anti-Bunkering Task Force Hails Promotion Of OC Marine,Rivers Police Command To CSP






Commendations has continued to trail the promotion and subsequent decoration of Officer in Charge of Marine,Rivers Police Command Chima. E. Ogarashi as Chief Superintendent of Police(CSP) .


The latest is coming from Head of Intelligence,Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria(IPMAN) Anti-Bunkering Federal Task Force,Mrs Aisha Ahmed .


In an interview with Journalists,Mrs Ahmed said the promotion of Mr Ogarashi from Superintendent of Police(SP) to Chief Superintendent of Police(CSP) is a promotion well deserved and a product of hard work,commitment and dedication to service .


The IPMAN head of intelligence told our reporter that the promotion did not cone to her as a surprise considering the immense contribuction of the OC Marine in tackling of crimes on water ways in Rivers State.


Mrs Aisha urged CSP Ogarashi to remain steadfast and focus in his duty as greater height awaits him.

OC Marine,Rivers Police Command Decorated With Rank Of CSP







The Officer in Charge(OC) Marine Police in Rivers State Chima. Ogarashi who was promoted to rank of Chief Superintendent of Police(CSP) from Superintendent of Police(SP) was decorated with his new rank on Monday 15, April,2024 at Police Officer's Mess Old GRA , PortHarcourt .


CSP Ogarashi was decorated by Deputy Commissioner of Police,(DCP) Operations Olubenga Adepoju and his wife in the presence of other Senior Officers.


DCP Adepoju while decorating the Police OC Marine in Rivers State urged him to continue to exhibit high level of profession,patriotism and dedication typical of a Nigeria Police Officer.


CSP Ogarashi in his response promised to work harder to achieve the aims and objectives of Inspector General of Police,IGP Kayode Egbetokun on total eradication of crimes on Nigeria water .

The OC Marine thanked the Rivers State Police Management team, Commissioner of Police,CP Olatunji Disu, Inspector General of Police and Police Service Commission for the recommendation and subsequent promotion.

Commendation,Açcolades Trail Decoration Of CSP Adamu As Assistant Commissioner of Police





Commendation,accolades has continued to trail the promotion and subsequent decoration of Chief Superintendent of Police(CSP) Adamu Adamu as Assistant Commissioner of Police(ACP). ACP Adamu was decorated today in PortHarcourt by the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State CP Olatunji Disu.


Aisha Ahmed, former Secretary, Federation of Muslim Women Association of Nigeria and currently the head of intelligence Independent Marketers Association of Nigeria(IPMAN) Federal taskforce in an interview with our reporter said is the promotion is merited and well deserved.


Ahmed stated that over the years, ACP Adamu has distinguished himself through hard work,discipline and conducted himself inline with core values and ethics of the Police Force.


Ahmed disclosed that as Commander C41 inteligence ACP Adamu achieved laudable results including the neutralization of one time Rivers most wanted kidnapper Wodi terrorizing East West road section of Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers state.


The head of IPMAN intelligence National task force urged ACP Adamu to continue to exhibit highest level of professionalism and patriotism in discharge of his duty.


Ahmed thanked the Commissioner of Police in Rivers state,CP Olatunji Disu,Inspector General of Police,IGP Kayode Egbetokun and Chairman Police Service Commission,IGP(rtd) Solomon Arase for recommending the distinguished Police officer for promotion.

PCRC,PHED Partners To End Energy Theft,Vandalism Of Electrical Facilities




Worried by the increase in energy theft and vandalism of transformers,electric cables,other facilities enabling distribuction of power in communities,the Police Community Relations Committe(PCRC) and the PortHarcourt Electricity Distribuction Company(PHED) are partnering to end the menace in Rivers state.


This was the outcome of the visit of executives of PCRC in Rivers state led by its Chairman, Mr Voke Emore to the state headquarter of PHED located at Moscow road PortHarcourt

Mr Benson Uwheru the Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director of PHED who received the executives of PCRC in Rivers state, stressed the importance of the partnership in ending the scourge of vandalism of facilities enabling distribuction of power in communities.


Earlier,Mr Voke Emore said vandalism of Electrical assets empowering distribuction of power is a criminal offence which impacts negatively on the communities.


Mr Emore explained that when PHED facilities like transformers,cables,poles etc are vandalized and stolen,it throws the community into darkness and many business are grounded because most business are power dependent.



The PCRC Chairman disclosed that when there is power outage in communities, it becomes very easy for criminals to perpetrate other crimes in these places under the cover of darkness.

Mr Emore stated that PCRC and PHED will carry out massive sensitization,
enlightenment campaign in communities on the negative consequences of energy theft and vandalism to the economy with a view to ending the menace.

He added that if every community member have the mindset that the electrical facilities are there own,they will be committed in protecting the PHED assets from activities of vandals

Our correspondent reports that as part of the awareness campaign,PCRC and PHED has started erecting bill boards in major busstops in the city with banners that has inscripsions such as " Say No To Vandalism of PHED facility and Power Theft.

Rights Group Hails Court Judgement Sentencing Mechanic To 7 Year Imprisonment For Defiling, Impregnating 12 Year Old Girl In Rivers



A child rights group,Rhema Care Integrated Development Centre has commended the judgement by Chief Magistrate Court in PortHarcourt,presided over by Chief Magistrate Dr(Mrs) Rita Oguguo for sentencing Mr Anayo Ugo, 42 year old Man to seven years imprisonment without option of fine for defiling and impregnating 12 year old in 2021 at Oyigbo,in Oyigbo Local Government Area of Rivers state.

Rhema Care which took up the matter and petitioned the Rivers Commissioner of Police after a complaint by the mother of the victim welcomed the judgement delivered by the court on Tuesday 23,January,2024.

Executive Director of Rhema Care Integrated Development Centre,Mrs Kelechi E.Okoroji described the court's decision as a significant victory for the Child Rights Act and a strong message against perpetrators of child sexual abuse in the society.

Mrs Okoroji said

"We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the judiciary for their commitment to upholding the rights of our children and ensuring that justice is served.

"The severity of the sentence handed down to Anayo Ugo reflects the heinous nature of his crime and sends a clear message that child abuse will not be tolerated.

"This landmark ruling serves as a reminder that child protection should be a top priority for our society. We, therefore, urge the public to remain vigilant in safeguarding their girl children and children in general from any form of abuse.

" It is crucial to create awareness about child rights, educate our communities on child protection strategies, and encourage reporting of any suspicious or illicit activities involving minors.

"Rhema Care Integrated Development Centre remains resolute in our mission to fight for the rights and well-being of children, particularly those who are vulnerable or have suffered abuse.

"We will continue to work tirelessly to promote a safe and secure environment for all children, and collaborate with government agencies, civil society organizations, and individuals to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

"We believe that every child deserves a future free from harm, and together, we can ensure their protection and create a society where their rights are respected and upheld"

Valentina Abaraonye Esq counsel holding watching brief for the victim on behalf of Rhema Care said justice has been served on the matter.
Abaraonye said "during the prosecution of the matter we called witnesses,that is basically the Medical Doctor,IPO who investigated the matter,the mother of the victim,as well as the victim.

"The defendant during the prosecution was not able to call any other witness,he was just his key witness on the matter. Today we can strongly beat our chest and say justice has been done because the defendant has been sent to prison for seven years without an option of fine".

Mr Anayo Ugo had in 2021 visited the home of the underage girl in Oyigbo, Oyigbo Local Government Area of the state to carry out maintenance on their generator after he was called by the father of the victim.

The convict,however took advantage of the absence of the victim's parents and defiled the minor.

The victim later got pregnant as a result of the defilement.The defendant also threatened to kill the victim if she tells anyone.

Mr Ugo was arrested on January 7,2022 following a petition by Rhema Care To Rivers State Commissioner of Police.

He was subsequently arraigned in court on February 7,2022.

The presiding Chief Magistrate Dr.Rita Oguguo in her ruling said the prosecution team was able to prove their case beyond reasonable doubt.

Dr.Oguguo convicted and sentenced the mechanic to seven years imprisonment without option of fine.

Mrs Sunday Ndipmong,a resident of Mile 1 Diobu,PortHarcourt,Rivers state has raised alarm over 'disapperance' of her Son from Custody of Mile 1 Police Division,PortHarcourt,Rivers State,Nigeria hours after he was arrested on Saturday, December 23,2023.


Mrs Sunday told Journalists that her 20 Year old Son who is learning trade in a shop of a man who deals on whole sale of different biscuits had accused her Son of stealing money.

The woman disclosed that when her Son told her,she took her son to the Man's place but met his absence.Mrs Sunday said while she and her Son was with the Man's wife,the Man brought Police from Mile 1 Police Division and arrested her Son, took him to the station and refused her to follow them to the station.

She explained that hours after her Son was arrested,Police officers called her that they have arrested her daugther and taken her to Mile 1 Police station.

She further said that when she went there,the Police released her daugther and held her to write statement that her Son escaped from Police station after writing statement.

Mrs Sunday expressed surprised that the Investigating Police Officer(IPO) has being disturbing her to produce her Son whom the IPO claimed escaped from Police custody.

Mrs Sunday asked the general publlc to come to her aide.

Meanwhile the Chairman of a rights group, Centre for Basic Rights Protection And Accountability Campaign in Rivers state,IK Alexander has criticized the Police officers asking Mrs Sunday to produce her Son whom they claimed escaped from their custody.

The human rights lawyer stated that it is the responsibility of the Police to account for all suspects in their custody .

Mr Alexander called on the Commissioner of Police to direct the IPO to produce the suspect rather than shifting responsibility of producing the 20 year old boy to the mother whom they claimed escaped from their custody

Missing Sumo Pump: Employee,Ex-APC Women Leader Settles



Mrs Mercy Elvis and her former employer Caroline Nagbo,an ex-All Progressive Congress (APC) women leader in Rivers state has settled in the case involving a missing Sumo pump where Mrs Elvis worked as a gardener for Mrs Nagbo.


Upon resumption of court sitting on Monday, 18th December ,2023 at Magistrate court 23, PortHarcourt presided over by Magistrate Nneka Eze-Obuzor, the parties informed the court that they have amicably settled the case.

Speaking outside the court room,Mrs Mercy Elvis told Journalists that all parties has settled and the case is closed.

Mrs Elvis disclosed that she has been released from Police station long ago and the matter has been laid to rest .

Family Of Missing 35 Year Old Man In Rivers Speaks,Pleads With Police To Intensify Search






Mr Alexander uwerhiavwe, elder brother to thirty-five year old Solomon Uwerhiavwe who has been missing for two weeks now in PortHarcourt has tasked the Rivers State Police command to expedite action to find their brother.



In a voice note send to Journalists, Mr Alexander said his brother came to PortHarcourt for an exam and lodged at voyage hotel,plot 26 Stadium road.

While at the hotel, his brother went out to buy drink that the hotel does not have.

He said after the brother went out of the hotel, the brother did not come back and since then, they have been looking for him.

Mr Alexander disclosed that they have reported the matter to Elekahia Police Station and CID

He called on well meaning Nigerians who has any clue about his whereabout to report to Elekahia Police Division or the nearest Police Division .

Mr Alexander equally urged the Police to intensify effort in finding the brother.

In recent times, reports of missing persons in PortHarcourt is on increase with many blaming suspected organ harvesters for the surge.

CP Olatunji Disu Pays Courtesy Call To Controller Correctional Service In Rivers, Solicits Cooperation.







The Rivers State Commissioner of Police,CP Olatunji Disu on Thursday 30,November,2023 paid a courtesy visit to the Controller of Nigeria Correctional Service(NCS) in Rivers State .


In his address CP Disu said "I am here today to introduce myself,management team and other senior officers to you.I came to ask for cooperation between both sister agencies,to strengthen partnership between the two organizations .

"I want you to know that at any time we are ready to cooperate with you,your command and at the same time we ask for the same.


"In all,we ask for better synergy between the two organizations because the prisons is very important partner, because all the product of all we do ends with you.Any Policeman knows the importance of prisons service.

"Prisons can help us end some cases quickly.Alot of information still comes from the prisons.Experience has shown that most suspect when they come out from prisons are soften, they come out with confessions and make attempts to correct their ills.We want to solicit for all assistance we can get from you" .

In his remarks, the Controller of Nigeria Correctional Service in Rivers State Felix Lawrence said the Police is our friend,is our brother.Nigeria Correctional Service works hand in hand with the Police .

He appreciated the effort of the CP in finding time to come to the NCS.

Mr Lawrence stated that the visit shows they are working towards one goal of national security.

"I have being working with the Nigeria Police,we have the Police in our correctional centres in Rivers State in charge of the external security and Nigeria at large .Information gathering and investigation is continous one even when inmates are in the custody .

"When I receive letter from your various offices for further investigation I do not hesitate to give an express approval .Sometimes we also give the Police credible information that will nip crime in the bud"

He assured the CP that the cooperation will be all encompassing.

Our correspondent reports that the Commissioner of Police was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner of Police,Operations and some senior officers.

High point of the event was presentation of a token by CP Disu to Controller of NCS in Rivers State.

Rivers Commissioner Of Police Visits Nigeria Navy Ship Pathfinder Calls For Better Synergy


The Rivers State Commissioner of Police,CP Olatunji Disu on Thursday November 30,2023 paid a courtesy visit to Commodore Desmond Igbo the Commander of Nigeria Navy Ship(NNS) pathfinder at Rumulomeni,Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the state.

CP Disu while stating the reason for the visit said " I am leading the delegation of Rivers State Police Command to familarize with you and the base,to seek for better cooperation between the two sister agencies because we know,we cannot do it alone.

"For a stronger partnership between us and you,for the officers to know themselves as well to solve problem that may come up at their own level without coming to our own notice.

"I know we have alot of operations together and we want it to be seamless".

In his speech Commodore Igbo said the security of Nigeria is paramount and indeed Rivers State,no one service can do it alone.

Commodore Igbo gave instance of what happened in America 2011,where because of security service rivalry,it cost America over three thousand lives.

He said since then they have learnt their lesson.

He stated that the issue resulted to a fusion centres in new york where all the security services do things together.

Commodore Igbo noted that he is happy that the Commissioner of Police is in the base for them to synergize,collaborate in performance of their duty for national security.


He explained that where they sometimes have issues is among the officers of lower level.

"So it is our duty to educate them that no one security agency can do it alone.The primary aim is to secure the country.To chase the criminals and not to fight ourselves.To us senior officers, we must teach our subordinates the essences of working together .If anything happens we should be able to resolve it" he said.

Highpoints of the visit was exchange of token between the two service Chiefs in the state and a group photograph

Rivers Commissioner of Police Receives 4 Patrol Hilux Vehicle From LGA Chairman




The Rivers State Commissioner of Police,CP Olatunji Disu on Thursday November 30,2023 on behalf of the command received four patrol hilux vehicle from the Chairman of PortHarcourt Local Government Council,Hon.Allwell Ihunda.

Receiving the vehicles,CP Disu said the patrol vehicles will assist the Police to respond swiftly to distress call and also in robust patrol.

CP Disu stated that Police oficers under his watch will be friendly and also effective.CP Disu urged the people at the event to always bring to his attention complaints against any officer as such complaint will be promptly addressed.

The Rivers Police Boss disclosed that the vehicles will be adequately maintained.
He thanked the LGA Chairman for the kind gesture.



Hon.Allwell Ihunda in his remarks said the LGA is donating the vehicles to the Police to assist them in providing security and combating crime.

Mr Ihunda said security is everybody business.

"Sometimestime the Police has challenge of mobility.For scarcity of funds will only donated four patrol vehicles to four Police Divisions.For those Police Divisions the vehicle did not get to, they should be patience,we will get to them".

Our correspondent reports that the four patrol vehicles were donated to Nkpolu,Rumuwoji(Mile 1 Diobu),Olu-Obansinjo and CPS Police Divisions respectively.

PCRC Tournament Cup:Rivers CP Harp On Inter Security Agency Cooperation







The Commissioner of Police in Rivers State,CP Olatunji Disu has stressed the need for inter security agency cooperation for effective Policing and good of the society .


CP Disu made the disclosure during the Novelty football Match and games involving Police,Army,National Drug Law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA),Federal Road Safety Corps(FRSC),Honourary Members of Police Officers Mess,Police Officers Wives Association on Saturday November 25th,2023.


In an interview with Journalists,CP Disu said "this is what sporting is all about and especially this is what security is all what,when the President came, he said he wanted an inter security agency cooperation and this has trickled down to what we are doing today.

"Police Communuty Relations Community (PCRC) is taking the led in bringing all the security agency together,so that we get to know ourselves,so that we can work together for the good of the community".

The Rivers State Chairman of PCRC, Voke Emore in his remarks said "we intend to built the bridge between the community and the Police and other agencies and the community,this event is to foster that relationship .

"In socializing you get to know yourself well,so the idea is that for our end of year,for every year by God's grace we are going to keep on doing this,so that will can have all the agencies coming together in one field and have fun .


The led representative Of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA), Benet Uche in an interview with Journalists said "the inter agency match is going to foster better unity amongst all of us,it also gives us the opportunity to exercise and keep fit,build us properly and gives us better physical building.


"I will like the Youth to know that drug is a mocker of persons,anybody who engages in intake of illicit drug is destroying himself.

"For young people who are growing up ,taking illicit drug even if you think you can afford it, even if you are not feeling the impact,by the time you getting to your late 40 and early 50s, when you are supposed to be operating at your optimal, that is when you will realize you are destroying yourself growing up from abuse of drugs.

"Drug is dangerous.Is an enemy to society .Everybody should stay away from illicit drug especially the Youth because we need them in order to secure our future".


Meanwhile Onegiyeofori Fenibo,President of Honourary Members of Police Officers Mess said " the match is to form more synergy, preaching the gospel that members of security agencies are one and no one should feel superior to the other".

In his assertion Donald Osifoh,Coordinator of cooperate members of PCRC in Rivers State said the football match will bring synergy through interaction between the security agencies.

Our correspondent reports that the Police team beat Honourary Members of Police Officers Mess 2 -0 to lift the PCRC football tournament gold cup.

Yahoo' Boys For Burying New Born Baby Alive In Rivers







The PLGA Security Watch,popularly known as PHALGA security, in conjuction with Rivers State Neighbourhood Watch and Azikiwe Police Division has arrested atbout twelve internter fraudster who allegedly buried a new born baby alive at Andoni waterfront in Eagle Island,PortHarcourt on Wednesday, 23rd,August,2023.


In an interview with our reporter, Victor Ohaji aka Man of God, the Chairman of PLGA security watch who doubles as the Chief Security Officer of Eagle Island said he got intelligence that some 'yahoo yahoo' boys were doing incantation at the waterfront.

Mr Ohaji said he mobilized with his men and on getting to the waterfront,the 'yahoo' boys has left.Mr Ohaji said on close observation,it was discovered that the suspected 'yahoo' boys buried something at the waterfront.


The Chief Security Officer of Eagle Island said on digging the ground, a new born baby boy was exhumed from the place who was already died as at the time he was exhumed.


The Vigilante Chief explained that he alerted the Rivers State Neighbourhood and the Station Officer of the Police post at Eagle Island who informed the DIvisional Police Officer(DPO) of Azikiwe Police Division.

He stated that the PLGA Security Watch,Rivers State Neighbourhood and the Police mobilized and went in search of the suspects.



He said while they were combing Eagle Island,the suspects who were coming out from one hotel saw them and ran in different direction and the joint security force were able to apprehend good numbers of them who were taken to Azikiwe Police Division,Illabiuchi,Mile 2 Diobu.


The Commander of PLGA security watch called on the Rivers State Government to assist them with logistics like operational vehicle for effeciency .

The spokesperson of Rivers State command confirmed the incident adding that investigation is ongoing.

Meanwhile ,a human rights advocate,Prince Wiro has condemned burying alive of a new born baby by suspected fraudster.


Mr Wiro who is also the National Coordinator of Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign described the incident as height of wickedness and man's inhumanity to man.

The rights advocate while commending the security operatives for the achievement called on the Police to spread their investigation to arrest fleeing suspects and ensure justice is done on the matter.

PCRC Criticize Promotion Of Abuse Of Drugs By Entertainers As NDLEA Urges Youth To Walk Away From Colos










The Police Community Relations Committe(PCRC) has frowned at the promotion of use of illicit drugs by some entertainers .

The PCRC Chairman in Rivers State, Voke Emore during a rally on Wednesday at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education on War Against Drug Abuse with the theme "On Colos Is Not The Way Out' said one of the causes of crimes in our community is use of illicit drugs.




He cited instance of BokoHaram terrorists getting their people to be obedient by drugging them to do what they want their members to do .
He disclose that drugs influences youth wrongly in communities.

"We decided that we need to preach against use of illici drug,we decided to partner with National Drug Law Enforcement Agency to come and preach the message against drug abuse .

"Now days you hear children say they are on colos that is they are on drugs .We are also preaching against the entertainment industry that has encouraged drug abuse.Alot of music you hear on air,social media encourages young ones to take illicit drug.

"We are preaching against it so that entertainers will take it as responsibility to talk against drug abuse just like the Government of the world decided that you must put notice of negative consequence on cigarette, that smokers are liable to die young,that is what will want the musicians to do .After their song, video they can say no against drug abuse.

"Musicians have to express it because young people see them as role models,influencers.We are trying to safe young Nigerians.

"We call on NGOs,organizations to come to the aid of NDLEA so that proper treatment centre can be established.

"While we preach against illicit drug,we should also ensure there is proper treatment centre for those that are on drugs".


Meanwhile the NDLEA has urged the youth and members of the public to walk away from 'colos' and any other illicit drugs.


Stella -Maris Amede, Assistant State Commander incharge of Drug Demand Reduction Unit, Rivers State Command in her speech said

"We are here for War Against Drug Abuse,to sensitize the students to live a healthy life .When you are into drug, you are a sick person.Drug is commonly abused everywhere now,we are here to advice them to walk away from illicit drugs.

"We are here to advice them that if you are on Colos or any illicit drug,you will not be able to graduate from school.

"Aside sensitization of the public on negative consequences of drug abuse, the NDLEA also goes after dealers of illicit drug,those selling the drugs.

"We also have rehabilitation unit that we treat sick people.We do not call them drug addict, We call them clients.if you call them drug addict, you will stigmatize them.They are sick people, they need help.

"We have thirty client under rehabilitation.The rehabilitation centre is just a make shift but we are trying to make it comfortable for them.We dont have female rehabilitation centre. We want a big rehabilitation centre that can accommodate male and female clients".

Meanwhile the management of Ignatius Ajuru University has commended PCRC,NDLEA for the sensitization programme.


Dr. Martins Adekanmbi, Chairman of students ethics and disciplinary committe told journalists that of the main point of misconduct in University is issue of drug abuse,

He said "we have our rules and laws under the ethics and disciplinary committee .

"If you are found using drugs is expulsion for one session and after the expulsion, presentation of certificate of fitness from physchiatric hospital before you can be re-admitted into the school.

"If you are found sellling,peddling the illicit drugs you will be expired from the institution.

"We dont want our children to be expired,we dont want them as parents to get expired due to peer pressure, so that is why we are partnering NDLEA,PCRC for the sensitization ".

He disclosed that two students of the institution have been expired for drug peddling in the last two years.

Rivers: Police Officer Donate Books To Ignatius Ajuru University






The Assistant Commissioner of Police (Operations) in Rivers state, Moses Ogechi Udu, has donated some copies of ten (10) titles of his books to Ignatius Ajuru University of Education.

The police top rank, a doctoral candidate in the Department of Political Science at the university, disclosed that the donation was part of his contribution to the enlargement of the institution’s library, particularly in security studies.

He applauded the Acting Vice-Chancellor for the policies of his administration which are aimed at improving the students’ entrepreneurial skills and subsequently improve their employability on graduation, describing it as a proactive policy.

ACP Udu also extolled the vice-chancellor for the low level of involvement of students of the institution in drug-induced crimes and other social vices in and outside the university.

A former student of the Turkish Academy of Drugs and Organised Crime, the security expert noted that traditional rulers occupy fundamental positions in the fight against crime and criminality in their domains. He is a leading force in the onslaught against criminal elements in Rivers State.

The Assistant Commissioner of Police also cautioned Youth against criminality while urging them to cooperate with the Police command in the state led by CP Emeka Nwonyi to ensure adequate and effective policing.

Responding, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Onuchuku, commended the security chief for his thoughtfulness in donating the books, describing it as rare.

The Acting Vice-Chancellor, while reiterating his administration’s zero-tolerance for all forms of social vices, reaffirmed his commitment to the safety of students and staff on the campuses of the university.

However, he assured that he would not hesitate to hand over any staff or student who contravenes the laws of the university or the state to security agencies.

SCIID Personnel Arrested Over Extortion As Rivers Governor Frown At Activities Of 'SARS'





Two Police Officers said to be personnel of State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID) have been arrested and detained three days after Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara lamented extortion and other criminal activities by 'SARS' Officials in some parts of the state,we learnt.


Governor Fubara expressed who frowned at the harassment and extortion of Youth by 'SARS' officials when the Commissioner of Police, CP Emeka Nwonyi paid him a visit in Governor house last week Friday.

The Rivers Governor urged CP Nwonyi to investigate complaints of 'SARS' personnel extorting and harassing Youth in the state while expressing shock that he(Governor) thought 'SARS' has been disbanded.

The Governor further urged CP Nwonyi to investigate the complaints and ensure such extortion and harassment is stopped..



We gathered that the Police Officer were arrested following a complaint by one of the victim of extortion at twitter tagging the Force Spokesperson , CSP Prince Adejobi Olumuyiwa.

The Force spokesperson had upon receipt of the complaint from one of the victim tweeted

" So,PPRO Rivers,come up and take up this case while we do the needful from Abuja.By now,we are not expected to still be seeing or hearing Policemen searching people's phone on road after several warningd from the IGP".

The Police Public Relations Officer in Rivers State,SP Grace Iringe Koko had in a tweet in response to instruction of the Force PPRO confirmed arrest of one of the Police Officers but did not state if they were personnel of SCIID and if all the money extorted have been recovered from them(Police Officers).

SP Koko in a follow up tweet confirmed the arrest of one of the Police officer but she did not state the unit they were serving or amount recovered.


"Good evening Sir,the officer in this post has been arrested and detained, investigation is ongoing,I urge the complainant to come and facilitate the investigation process for us to give feedback to members of the public.

"Sir@LifeofNapaul,you said you are no longer interested in this matter of alleged extortion you reported through this medium while the Commissioner of Police Rivers State command is fully interested and insist that you should avail us with your email address" SP Koko added.

Meanwhile sources told our reporter that the complaint simply identified as Napaul was threatened to drop the case .

However in a reply to tweet message sent by our reporter to his inbox, Napaul denied been threatened .

He said " what are you hearing,I wasn't threatened,I am done with anything concerning the case and I want to live my life".



Earlier, Napaul explained that while on his way to PortHarcourt via a public transport,the Police Officers asked them to park.He said the occupants of the vehicle were searched,their whatzpp chats were opened one by one,every app was searched and they(Police) found nothing.

He said the Police Officers asked the driver of the commercial vehicle to go with the female passengers while four of who are men in the vehicle was left behind.


The victim disclosed that the Police Officers held them for atleast 90 minutes and they were left to go when one of the Officer gave them account number that they(victims) transferred money to before they were released.


SP Koko was yet to respond to text messages sent to her mobile phone on enquiry to confirm the actual amount recovered and other discovery by the Command on the incident.


Meanwhile some Nigerians on twitter have called on the Inspector General of Police to overhaul the unit/department whose personnel are responsible for the resurgence of 'SARS' activities which has attracted the attention of the Rivers State Governor.

Rivers CP Meets PCRC,Warns Members Against Fraternizing With Criminals







The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Nwonyi Emeka has warned members of Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) not to fraternize with criminals in their domain.

CP gave the warning during a meeting with PCRC members in Officer's Mess old GRA, PortHarcourt on Thursday,June 15,2023.

CP Emeka noted that some persons join PCRC because of who.

"Even when they know somebody committed an offence,they we come and show ID card to solicit for the person .I will only identify with members that identify with good of the society" CP Emeka said.

The Rivers Police Boss admonished PCRC to continue the good work they are doing noting that it Is a volunteer work.

The Rivers Police Boss said he wants the synergy to continue between the PCRC and the Police from level of Divisions, Area commands,zones and the nation at large.


CP Emeka urged PCRC members to Keep being good ambassador iof the state in crime fighting.

He thanked members of the organization for being peace makers and do their best interms of sharing intelligence for the Police to their work.


He also tasked members of the organization not to hesitate to assist Police stations in terms of mobility and logistics whenever they can.



In his speech, the PCRC Chairman in Rivers State,Voke Emore said members of the organization are not above the law.





"Mine of PCRC members are not criminals.Arrest any one who aid Criminals.We will collect our ID cards from such person,You can be rest assured" Mr Emore said.


PCRC Chairman also commended the CP for killing of Nwodi Onuigwe,Rivers most wanted terrorist.

Speaking further with Journalists after the event,Mr Emore said

"This is our regular monthly meeting but is a special day because we also welcomed the Commissioner of Police of the command to this command.We also wanted to give him a vote of confidence for the activities done so far by the Police under his watch.Is amazing that as a self motivated CP he did not wait for any Governor,wait for any PCRC,he did not wait for any Royal father, he took it upon himself to take actions that will better the community in Rivers State and safety of lives and property of these communities in the State.

"We have seen him to be an action CP and said,will must host him today to tell him thank you for what he has done so far and we appreciate the IGP,Usman Alkali Baba and the Police Service Commission which deemed it fit to send an active, proactive, dynamic and gallant CP like himself.

"Just like other Association, we have a constitution that guide us and crime is one of those things that we do not permit or tolerate in any form.

"Before now, you could go to a Police officer and obtain PCRC ID card but all those have stopped.All our ID cards come from the office of the Force PPRO and you are thoroughly drilled .

"Is not about the money any more,is about the kind of person you are.You can see from the example of the State Chairman that is before you today,I am the state Chairman .I am not the oldest.I am one of the youngest member of PCRC and they deemed it fit because of the kind of person I am and the capacity. I have to be the state Chairman to organize the PCRC.

"If you look at the members, we have currently,they are mostly gentlemen,very fantastic and dynamic men and women.

"PCRC is a bridge between the community and the Police,the PCRC is not a spy for the Police. The PCRC only helps the community to understand the role of the Police in the community and also helps the Police to understand the culture of the community,which means that we are bringing that dynamism into the Police.

"Relating with the society, you cannot be always brutal,brutal .You have to work with them.

For the PCRC members, f you have criminals around you you,you have to report to the right source .We tell you how to pass your message,who to report to.

"We try to inform the community on how to do things.Meanwhile when we go back to the Police,we also try to help them.

Alot of them do not have vehicles.You Know that the Police is poorly funded and the new PSC(Police Service Commission) Chairman said he wants to make Police better.We hope he does that because PCRC is burdened with always renovating, repairing cars.

"We try sometimes to provide accommodation for DPOs that are urgently transfered to community,make them very comfortable.If they are deployed to your community and they don't have where to sleep, criminals can get to them first before getting to you.Police formed the Association so we can be bridge builders between the public and the Police" he said.

Killing Of Most Wanted Terrorist: Rights Groups Commend IGP Baba,PSC Chairman For Posting Best Operational CP To Rivers







We commend the Inspector General of Police,IGP Usman Alkali Baba and Chairman Police Service Commission,IGP(rtd) Solomon Arase for their visionary leadership,calculative mode of operation in posting the best operational and result oriented Commissioner of Police,CP Nwonyi Emeka to Rivers State which led to the killing of the most wanted terrorist in the state on Tuesday 13, June,2023 and reduction of crime to As Low As Reasonable Practical in the last three weeks.

We equally commend Rivers State Government for providing the enabling environment for Police and other security agencies to effectively tackle crime in the state.

CP Emeka can be likened to a round peg in a round hole .

CP Emeka, a highly operational Commissioner of Police sent to Rivers State has drastically reduced crime in Emohua,Ahoada East and West LGAs which have been flashpoints for cult killing and other violent criminal activities.



CP Emeka who is a huge motivator to officers and men under his command,shortly after his assumption of office gave a marching order to members of his management team,Area Commanders,heads of tactical units,DPOs,Officers and rank of the command in Rivers State to review their strategy to ensure the capture of Nwondi Onuigwe and other criminal elements terrorizing the state as criminality has no place under his reign.

The fearless and very rugged Assistant Commissioner of Police,Operations in the state and his men went all out to ensure the directive of the CP was carried out to the letter by storming the hideout of Nwodi and his gang at Ogoloma community in Okirika LGA at about 2:30am on 13,June,2023 which led to death of Nwodi, the most wanted terrorist in Rivers State and three members of his gang.



It is a known fact that Nwodi and his gang has been responsible for series of kidnapping,armedrobbery, along Eastwest Road Emuoha LGA, Rivers State.



Nwodi is said to be responsible for kidnap of Mrs Gloria Izunfuo, Federal Commissioner of National Population Commission Rivers and Bayelsa state,who was kidnap at Ogbakiri junction while travelling to Portharcourt, hijack of two 18 seaters buses conveying National Youth Corps Members at Rumuji, Emohua LGA enroute Ondo to PortHarcourt,kidnap of Justice Azunda Chief Protocol officer to Emeka Woke,ex-Chief of Staff Rivers State Government house. .

Nwodi is also said to be responsible for killing of Police men, other security agencies along the Emohua axis of East West road recently, hijacking of three to four buses of 18 passengers almost on weekly basis coming passing along the Emohua axis of East West road, daily killing of villagers in Emohua LGA communities and breaking of oil pipelines to finance his operations.

The Chairman of Emohua LGA Chidi Lylod in a recent radio announcement had raised the one million naira bounty placed on Nwodi to two million naira while expressing assurance that CP Emeka with the calibre of Police Officers posted to Emohua LGA is ready to combat crime.


The result oriented CP Emeka who became sleepless over the activities of Nwodi, most wanted terrorist, other kidnappers, criminal activities mandated the ACP operations and other officers and men of the Police in the state who were sleeping in the bush almost on daily basis to leave no stone unturned to ensure all criminal elements are flushed out of the state.

CP Emeka further held a strategic security meeting with stakeholders in the state which included Local Government Chairmen, Traditional rulers,Youth organization,Community Development Committee,(CDC), Members of his Management team, Area Commanders ,DPOs, to synergize with the stakeholders on crime fighting.


CP Emeka in his continued desire to ensure maximum security in Ahoada East and West LGAs ravaged by cultists, deployed one of his best DPOs in Rivers State from Bori Police Division in Ogoni to Ahoada Police Division,Ahoada East and another seasoned crime fighter as a DPO to Akinima Police Division.



The action and strategies deployed by CP Emeka so far in crime fighting in the state has led to drastic reduction of violent crime almost to zero in Emohua, Ahoada East,West LGAs the major flash points for violent crimes as well as other areas in the state.

Natives and residents of the area are now sleeping with their two eyes closed. Natives and residents of Elibrada, other communities in Emohua LGA after the killing of Nwodi by the Police on June 13,2023 rolled out drums in celebration for the death of Nwodi.

We can compare the operational strategies of CP Emeka and his Management team as well as bravery of the ACP Operations Rivers State and his men like the neutralisation of Anineh etc by brave men then.

Once again we thank IGP Baba and IGP(rtd) Solomon Arase, Chairman PSC for the synergy in deploying CP Emeka to Rivers State at this point in time while urging the Commissioner of Police not to relent in his quest to make Rivers the safest state in Nigeria.

Signed:

Ambassador Green Isaac

Co-ordinator,Civil Military Police and Paramilitary Relations (CIMPARR), Nigeria.

Festus Bonwin Esq,Board Member
and

I.K Alexander Esq, Chairman, Rivers State Chapter,

Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign.
15, June,2023.

Inspector Godday Amadi Esq,A Police Officer With Exceptional Dedication To Service


Congratulations to Nigeria for assets like this icon,an inspector of Police,Godday Amadi Esq.



Determination they say,brings success.More determination brings more success. Inspector Godday Amadi Esq is a typical example of a man whose committment in serving the Nigeria Police Force and the country has painted the organization in a good light.


Inspector Amadi's dedication to service in the legal department is exceptional.He spares no effort and leaves no stone unturned to ensure he brings glory to the Police Force in course of discharge of his duty as a Police lawyer.


Despite challenges encountered in discharge of his duty, he do not look for excuses but rather focuses on solution to ensure he wins cases assigned to him in court by the Nigeria Police .

Inspector Amadi love for service and the Nigeria Police Force has distinguished him as one of the few Nigerians who look for what they will contribute to the system rather than what they will harness.


His zero tolerance for corruption in line of his duty has changed the narrative and perception by some litigants and members of the public that many Police Officers are in the Force to make money rather than to serve.


Due diligence and utmost carefulness by Inspector Amadi in course of discharge of his duty has made him triumph in cases that seems difficult to win in estimation of many people .

Below are some of the cases Inspector Godday Amadi(AP/N0 333817) played a major role and won as a lawyer in Nigeria Police (Legal/Prosecution Section)




1.PHC/881/CR/2018-COP vs PASTOR CHIDIEBERE OKOROAFOR (Murder) convicted and sentenced to death on 5/6/2023
2.FHC/62c/2017-IGP vs ERNEST OBIOMA &3ORS(ADVANCE FEE FRAUD) convicted and sentenced to 12years imprisonment .
3.PMC/755c/2016-COP vs CHIEF EMMANUEL OPURUM (FALSE INFORMATION) convicted and sentenced to 6MONTHS on 15/5/2019
4.PMC/100c/2015-COP vs INNOCENT ECHEBIRI & 2ORD(STEALING) convicted and sentenced to 5 YEARS IMPRISONMENT.
5.COP vs ISAAC NINGIR & ANOR(STEALING) convicted and sentenced to 7YEARS IMPRISONMENT on 29/1/2020


CIVIL SUITS DEFENDED AND WON
1.PHC/174/FHR/2020-JUNIOR LAWSON vs COP &3 ORS.(200,000,000.00) damage DISMISSED in the favor NPF on 16/12/2020.
2.PHC/2222/2019 MR.BARTHOLOMEN S.OKONKWO vs COMM. OF POLICE & 2ORS(#50,000,000.00) DISMISSED on 17/6/2020.
3.PHC/402/2020- CHIEF LAWSON ANELE CHUKWUCHETA vs NIGERIA POLICE FORCE & 4 ORS.(#100,000,000.00) DISMISSED on 30/9/2021.
4.PHC/1547/2017-HRM FERE BARIDILO THEOPHILUS MEABE vs MR BABARI PAAGO & 5ORS(#50,000,000.00) DISMISSED on 21/12/2017 .


In my view, the Police should encourage personnel like Inspector Godday Amadi Esq to be motivated to achieve more which will inturn serve as lesson to another personnel that there is benefit in commitment to service.


Article Written By Aisha Ahmed

Former Secretary, Muslim women Association of Nigeria (Fomwan),
Rivers State Chapter.

Electorates in PortHarcourt Federal Constituency 1 in Rivers State have been adviced and urged to vote the Alliance Peoples Movement (APM) House of Representatives candidate, Prince John Okorosa for PortHarcourt Federal Constituency 1 come February 25,2023 .


The stakeholders led by Aisha Ahmed and George Precious in an interview with our reporter disclosed that a vote for Prince John Okorosa is a vote for effective representation.They said Mr Okorosa will sponsor bills that will impact positively on the life of members of the constituency if elected.


The women noted that Okorosa is a man that has love for people and has put smiles on people even when he does not have any political position.They further explained that a vote for Okorosa will guarantee youth and women empowerment that will disable poverty in the area.


Aisha and George said electorates should thumb print the cassava logo on the house of representative ballot paper for PHALGA Federal Constituency which is the logo of APM on February 25,2023.

They added that Mr.Okorosa is a dependable candidate that can be trusted.

One George Peter, a resident of Cedarwood Gardens Estate, Off SARS road,Rupokwu,Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State has called on the Inspector General of Police,Commissioner of Police and Governor of Rivers State to intervene over incessant harassment on him by a suspected land grabber popularly called 'Don' in the estate.


In an interview with newsmen on Saturday after a foiled arrest attempt, Mr Peter said " I went to look at the labourers I gave job.A friend asked me to protect his property,on getting to the place,the labourers were sitting down.

"They said Don Police men asked them not to work ,I approached the Police men and asked them what happened ,they said I should call Don.I said I cannot call him,that the Police people should explain to me what happened.

"The Police people left me.One Biggy attached to Don came and held me on my niga that Don said they should arrest me The Police people now held me that State CID is coming to carry me.

"So at the point of dragging with them,I have to notify the estate and the estate people came in mass trying to intervene and asked what happened.A neighbour now called Don and spoke with him before they left me.

"Don does not own any land here.He just came to Obio/Akpor LGA and started claiming land .

"In 2020 Don came from nowhere and started harassing people.If you resist him from collecting your land he will you accuse of a non existing murder case.He has done it to many people.

"Now he is doing it to the entire estate.If you resist him from collecting your land,he will tag a murder case on you,just to intimidate you.He is working with some Police people from Adamawa state that is in the estate in one uncompleted building.

"I am asking the Commissioner of Police to come down.I have been arrested six times for no just cause by this Don.Arresting me unnecessarily .I am a family man for crying out loud .I have family.Please Commissioner of Police,the Governor of Rivers State,the Inspector General of Police,please come down and investigate this matter.

"My life is under threat .one day they will kidnap me with Police Uniform and before I know they may eliminate me .

"The people that came to arrest was not from Rumuokoro Police Station,we went there they are not from Rumuokoro.They are not from State CID.They are his Police people he uses here to harass people".


Recall that about 137 Landlords of the Estate had petitioned the Inspector General of Police on November 24,2022 on the activities of the alleged land grabber "Don" and Police officers attached to him and copied the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State.

The spokesperson for the Rivers State Police command,SP Grace Iringe Koko was yet to respond to enquiry by our reporter into the incident as at the time the petition was written by the landlords in the estate.

Landlords Of Cedar Wood Estate Sends SOS To IGP Over Land Grabbing Activities Of 'Don' In Alleged Connivance With Police Officers













One hundred and thirty seven landlords of Cedar Wood Gardens Estate,off SARS road,Rumuagholu,Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State has sent a Save Our Soul (SOS) message to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Usman Alkali Baba about the activities of a land grabber popular Known as 'Don' in alleged conjunction with some Police Officer and other armed thugs in the estate

In a petition written by their lawyer E.O Goodwill Esq which was signed by Anthony Odebe Esq and Dennis Bassey Chairman and Secretary respectively with one hundred and thirty five other landlords in the estate, they called for an urgent intervention by the Inspector General of Police.

The landlords in the SOS message to IGP Usman Alkali said 'DON' who is a known land grabber sent a petition to the Commissioner of Police manifestly laden with well orchestrated falsehood concocted to mislead the Nigeria Police Force. That they the landlords have never been involved in land grabbing with anybody, rather it is 'Don' who is a notorious land grabber in Rivers State and whose name is synonymous with land grabbing and its associated vices.

The landlords alleged that 'Don' deployed Police Officers from Abuja, camped them in an uncompleted building within the estate for his illegal land grabbing scheme while they turned their abode to a detention center, confiscate items from developers and store them in the premises until their owners pay for their release.

The landlords further claimed that all these abated after an S.O.S letter was written to the Governor of Rivers State complaining about the menace of the Don in the Estate.

The landlords said 'Don' uses petition of fabricated murder and attempted murder case against some land owners in the estate as a strategy to ambush his victims and make them abandon their properties for him to grab same despite the fact that the murder allegations have been investigated by the Police to no avail.

The landlords said "it is interesting to note that this singular murder has different suspects at every point in time. The same victim is always waiting to die at the instance of 'Don' whenever he spots a potential landowner for his grabbing enterprise".

They further alleged that some of the police officers involved in the racket have been given plots of land to make them very committed and devoted to the cause of 'Don'.

"Before now the former commissioner of Police who is presently the AIG Zone 16 was able to put the said 'Don' in his right perspective but he has resurfaced again with his frivolous petition knowing the present Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Police Command is not aware of his antecedents. Presently two landlords of the Estate in person of Chief Collins Igwe and Mr George Peter Ndaokani were harassed, molested and bundled into a hilux van owned by the said 'Don' and presently these men are in custody of the police" they said.

"We pray the Inspector General of Police to use his good office to order an independent panel to take over all the petitions made by 'Don' and all the petitions written against him with respect to every landlord in Cedarwood Garden Estate; and to cause a thorough investigation of all the allegations contained therein; and prosecution of anybody found complicit.

The petition was copied to

THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF RIVERS STATE
HIS EXCELLENCY,
CHIEF (BARR) EZENWO NYESOM WIKE.

THE AIG ZONE 16,
YENAGOA, BAYELSA STATE.

THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE,
RIVERS STATE POLICE COMMAND,
MOSCOW ROAD, PORT HARCOURT,
RIVERS STATE.

THE CHAIRMAN,
OBIO/AKPOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA.

THE SENATE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY, HUMAN RIGHTS & LEGAL MATTERS
SENATE BUILDING,
THREE ARMS ZONE,
ABUJA,
FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY.

THE SENATE COMMITTEE ON POLICE AFFAIRS,
SENATE BUILDING.


When contacted, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police command, SP Grace Iringe Koko said she would get back to our reporter but was yet to do so as at press time.

Orderly Room Trial Of Police Inspector Accused Of Raping Teenage Girls In Rivers Stalled Over Absence Of Witness

The ordely room trial of Inspector Salihu Kazeem who allegedly stripped,took nude videos and raped 17 and 18 years old girls in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area after accussing them of stealing his money when he gave them his ATM card was stalled on Tuesday due to absence of the 17,18 years old girls and their witness.

Our reporter who was at Police headquarters,Moscow road reports that the Police Officer who had been in detention was already prepared for the orderly room but the girls were absent.

IK Alexander,Chairman of Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign , Rivers State Chapter who has being following up the matter in an interview with Journalists said

"We did not see the girls who accused the officer,they are no where to be found .We called them this morning they said they were coming and we waited for them we did not see them .

"They are suppose to be here to substantiate their allegation against the officer so that the ordely room will commence" .

"The organization is following up to ensure that justice is done at the end of the day but since the girls are not here there is nothing we can do about it.We are looking forward to see whether there is going to be a subsequent date for the orderly room trial to be carried out".

Recall that that the Police officer had denied stripping the girls naked,taking nude videos and raping the girls but he admitted having consentual sex with the girl which he paid for .

The officer also claimed the girls stole his money which the girls had earlier denied.

The Police Inspector,the two girls and their witnesses had written their statements before now.

Our correspondent reports that an orderly room trial is like a Police internal court sitting where charges will be read to the accused Police Officer and he will take plea of being guilty or not and the trial will commence with the witnesses testifying especially when the officer pleads not guilty to the charges.

A source told our reporter that even if an officer is culpable,the officer cannot be dismissed without going through process of orderly room trial which will either find the officer guilty of the crime or discharge/acquit the office of allegation levelled against such officer.


Commissioner of Police,CP Eboka Friday had ordered for the detention of the Police Inspector Salihu Kazeem and subsequent investigation of the matter with a view to serving justice on the matter.

A man simply identified Chima and his female lover was said to have used machete to cut his wife severally at Omerelu community, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State on Monday(15 August,2022) when his wife,Wakaego queried him for bringing his female lover home.

An elder brother to the woman, Anayo Warisi , in an interview with our reporter said " my sister's husband brought in his female lover to the house and the wife started asking him why he would bring his female lover to the house,the two of them started beating his wife and the husband allegedly used machete to cut her all her body but that of the leg is more severe.

"My elder sister and brother took her to hospital at Elele,she was rejected.The hospital said the wound is much and they took her to UPTH.
"We want the husband arrested because is a case of attempted murder".


In the meantime the Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign has called for a thorough investigation into the incident.



Gladys Oyenmwen, Secretary of Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign,Rivers State in an interview with our reporter demanded a thorough investigation into the alleged use of machete by the woman's husband and his female lover to cut the wife severally.
Mrs Oyenmwen said if any one is found culpable in the course of investigation, the person should face the law.
She added that domestic violence under any guise has no place in our society and should not be condoled irrespective of who is the perpetrator.

The spokesperson for the Rivers State Police command,SP Grace Iringe Koko confirmed the incident to Revelation Agents adding that the female lover of the woman's husband was arrested by Elele Police Division through the effort of Commissioner of Police,CP Eboka Friday.

SP Grace Iringe Koko added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Eboka Friday has ordered that the case be transferred to State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID), PortHarcourt.

The All Progressive Congress (APC) ward secretaries forum in Rivers State has adopted Rt.Hon.Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi and Mr Tonye Cole as its Presidential and Gubernatorial Candidates for the 2023 general elections in Rivers state.

The forum made the disclosure in a Press briefing held in PortHarcourt on Thursday,April,28,2022.

In a communique signed by David -Nelson Ordu,Sokari Minapakate,Felix Onyeukwu,Barikpe Iniah,Chairman, Secretary, Publicity Secretary and Administrative Secretary of the forum respectively,the group said after x-raying aspirants vying for the position of President in Nigeria and Governor in Rivers state,it was discovered that Rt.Hon.Chibuike Amaechi is most qualified to take over from President Muhammadu Buhari and Tonye Cole as the Governor of Rivers State in 2023.

The forum also pledged to support campaign organizations of Rt Hon.Chibuike Amaechi and Tonye Cole with the sum of fifty million naira as a show of love and commitment .

Read The Statement In Full


THE ALL PROGRESSIVE CONGRESS (APC) WARD SECRETARIES FORUM, RIVERS STATE ADOPTS RT. HON. CHIBUIKE ROTIMI AMAECHI KSJ. & TONYE COLE, AS her PRESIDENTIAL & GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATES RESPCTIVELY.
PROTOCOLS
1. Thank you all for joining us in this epoch making conference.
2. All Progressive Congress (APC) Ward Secretaries Forum, Rivers State, which is an umbrella body of all Ward Secretaries of Rivers State APC, comprising different ethnic groups, had x-rayed many aspiring candidates who showed interests either publicly or otherwise in joining the 2023 presidential and guber race.
3. The result of the x-ray shows Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi is “most qualified” to take over from President Muhammadu Buhari and Tonye Cole as Rivers State Governor
4. At our enlarged meeting held in Port Harcourt on the 27th day of April, 2022, we unanimously endorsed Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, current Minister of Transportation and ‘‘Dan Amana Daura” as our candidate for the top job of the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Tonye Cole as Rivers State Governor for the 2023 general election.
5. For the future of Nigeria, we firmly believe that the man, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, KSJ, is the best qualified for the office of the president, especially with his intellectual accomplishment, empathy for the younger generation, understanding of the economy and the fact that he has the experience of being a former Speaker (for 8 years) of the Rivers State House of Assembly and Chairman of all Speakers of the Houses of Assembly of the 36 States of the Federation, Governor of Rivers State (for 8 years) and Chairman Nigerian Governors Forum, Director General, Buhari Campaign Organization, current 2 tenure Hon. Minister of Transportation with uncompromised passion to consolidate on the achievements of the past twenty-four years.
6. THE MAN, RT. HON. CHIBUIKE ROTIMI AMAECHI IN THE PAST 24 YEARS
Amaechi (as he fondly wants to be called), was first appointed a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in November 2015 by President, Mohammadu Buhari and assigned to the Ministry of Transportation, where he superintended over the transportation sector (road, rail, maritime and aviation transportation), until recently when aviation was severed from his portfolio.
7. He was reappointed to the same position in 2019 by the President. There is no doubt that as the man in charge of driving the policies of President Mohammadu Buhari and the Federal Government of Nigeria in the transportation sector, he has discharged that responsibility with the full admiration and commendation of the ordinary Nigerians. We are sure that his passion, zeal, commitment, and determination to set goals and deliver on the goals would have counted in his favour, in earning him the prestigious award: ‘‘THE MINISTER OF THE DECADE AWARD’’ on Thursday, 16th of January, 2020, by THISDAY Newspaper, during the hosting of its Awards Ceremonies.
8. With the established goals and roadmap, it was easy, for instance, for the Ministry to identify Abuja-Kaduna railways and to set for itself a deadline for the Commissioning of that project in 2016. Today, we all can also see and evaluate the level of advancement and achievements made by NIMASA, NPA, NRC, and Shippers Council in Nation Building. These are all evidence of well-coordinated supervision, motivation, and support by a progressive and committed superintendent (Team Lead).
9. On record for all to see and why we are proud to front for the Presidential candidacy of the man, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, is the fact that he had been a Governor, who not only did exceptionally well in terms of infrastructural development but also knew how to drive growth and development. Between 2008 to 2015, the period when Amaechi held forth in Rivers State, the State was described by both national and international observers as “huge construction site”, with the construction of over 200 Health Centres, 3 Hospitals, 500 Primary Schools, 9 Secondary Schools etc, all state of the art, and went on at the same time. These were outside the Roads (including a dualised network 1500km of roads, 23 bridges, 2 major flyovers, 2 interchanges, etc), Agriculture (including rehabilitation of over 30,000 hectares of Rivers State Oil Palm plantation -moribund RISONPALM, the Songhai Farm, over 2,000 hectares of Banana Farm at Tai; commercial-scale Fish Farm at Buguma, etc), Waste Management, Entertainment infrastructures all of which went on simultaneously.
10. Within the period as Governor, Amaechi also ramped up the 350 Megawatts (MW) total capacity generation assets investment commenced by the former administration in Rivers State from its previous 70MW (20 percent in 2007) to a record high of 77 percent, and injected another brand new 360MW, leaving the State with about 700MW in 2015. By so doing, he raised the bar for Rivers State as the Highest Independent Power Generation in Nigeria, second only to the Federal Government.
11. Amaechi’s Security Architecture for the State was also second to none, as the State became a Security Model in the country: kidnapping, armed robbery, cult-related activities all reduced to less than one percent. Under his watch, Rivers State established and set up an integrated Security Network, with a central Command, Control, Communication, Computer and Intelligent (C4I), a 24hours Camera System that watched over Port Harcourt City. And to close the final loop, the Rivers State Government had ordered for the delivery of two Civilian Security Bell Helicopters before he exited from Office in May 2015.
12. As Governor, Amaechi’s vision and achievements in Rivers State were ground-breaking, trailblazing and unprecedented. One of his major strides was in the Education sector. Upon assumption of Office, He declared State of Emergency on Education in Rivers State and from a near-ground-zero, he lifted Education Infrastructure and Standard to a state where Rivers State became a reference point on Education Development in Nigeria, and twice, it won the UBEC Award for Best State in Education Development. And to boost teacher-pupil ratio, a little over 13,000 teachers were employed in one single process. He understood the role of Education and Human Capacity building in national growth and development. Thus, by the time he left office, he had records of over 3,500 Rivers State indigenes and residents sent all over Europe, America, Asia, etc to acquire knowledge in ICT, Medicine, Science, Engineering, etc.
13. Amaechi’s efforts in governance received international accolades and endorsements, especially what was referred to as “unprecedented development” in Rivers State. No sooner, his efforts in improving Education was recognized by UNESCO, and in 2012, Port Harcourt City was voted, WON and declared “World Book Capital 2014”, and became the first City in Sub-Saharan Africa to win World Book Capital, beating 10 others contenders including cities like Oxford, Moscow, Lyon etc
14. Amaechi is tenacious, passionate and always committed in his drive for the development. He is like a golden fish in that “sea of development”. Indeed, those who knew Amaechi’s drive were not at all surprised that THISDAY Newspaper spotted him and his modest contribution to President Buhari development efforts and agenda and that the ordinary Nigerians voted him the Minister of the Decade.
15. In the same vain, we seek to seize this medium to Pass Vote of Confidence on the Decision of the Leadership of Rivers State APC on the choice of Tonye Cole as our Consensus candidate come 2023 general election. Impressively, Tonye Cole, who co-founded and as former Group Executive Director of Sahara Group, an energy Conglomerate, operating in 38 countries around the world with over 4,000 employees yielding an annual turnover of $11Billion, whose direct responsibility was successful in building this global brand. As a result, we are therefore hopeful that the zeal and wisdom these achievements will be replicated in governing the affairs of our dear Rivers State.
16. CONCLUSION
We conclude this press conference by congratulating the Honourable Minister of Transportation on his auspicious and numerous achievements thus far in the last 30 years and our gubernatorial candidate on his unprecedented antecedence. We hope that they will not relent in their drive and zeal in nation-building; even as we say many thanks to President Mohammed Buhari for the opportunity given to the Minister to be part of this great team, driving national development and growth at this time. Like the African proverbs goes: “No matter how full the river, it still wants to grow.”, which is why we call on all Nigerians to join us and rally support for the man, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi for the office of the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria and Tonye Cole as Governor of Rivers State, as to drive development, economic stability and security of lives and property amongst other panting yearnings of all Nigerians.
In achieving the foregoing and in supporting further the Presidential candidacy of Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi & Tonye Cole, the ALL PROGRESSIVE CONGRESS (APC) WARD SECRETARIES FORUM, RIVERS STATE hereby pledges the sum of Fifty Million (N50,000,000.00) Naira to Amaechi & Tonye Cole Campaign Organization as our token of love and seriousness to see the man, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Chinuike Amaechi sworn in as President and Commander in Chief, Federal Republic of Nigeria, and Tonye Cole as Rivers State Governor come 29/5/2023.
We have no atom of doubt that, God being our side, this is achievable and an expectation come true already and we congratulate all Nigerians for joining the winning train ably piloted by ALL PROGRESSIVE CONGRESS (APC) WARD SECRETARIES FORUM, RIVERS STATE.

Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign Calls For Unbiased Investigation Into Alleged Killing Of Member Of   Degema LGA Security Outfit In Company Of IPMAN Anti-Bunkering Officials  By Marine Police Officials In Rivers State

The Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign has called on the Commissioner of Police, in Rivers State, CP Eboka Friday to order an immediate and unbiased investigation into the alleged killing of  Ibinabo George, a member of Degema Local Government Security outfit  who was driving one of the speed boat in a routine patrol with members of  Anti- Bunkering unit of Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria(IPMAN), South -South coastal water ways by officials of Marine Police in Rivers who tagged him a sea pirate on 15,April,2021 between Degema and Isaka,Okirika Local Government Area water ways. 
The rights advocacy group in a statement made by its National Coordinator, Prince Wiro said the call became necessary following allegations made by the Chairman of IPMAN Anti-Bunkering unit in South-South, coastal water ways,Prince John Okorosa that the killing which was targeted at members of the Anti-Bunkering unit was based on malice and personal vendetta the Officer in Charge of the Marine Police has against the Anti-Bunkering unit due to the stance of the Anti-Bunkering unit against some  'questionable'  conducts of some officers of the Marine Police unit. 
Mr Wiro stressed that only a thorough and unbiased investigation will unravel the truth as the Chairman of Anti-Bunkering unit of IPMAN, in South-South coastal water ways in an interview with Centre for Basic Rights revealed that his officials are known to the Marine Police unit and has been working with the Marine Police officers,other relevant security agencies and has necessary documents from Defence headquarters and Police headquarters, Abuja which approved their operation.

Mr Wiro urged the Commissioner of Police, CP Eboka Friday to ensure justice is served to all the parties involved to justify his statement in his maiden press briefing that all reported human rights abuses will be promptly investigated and officers found culpable brought to book. 
The group equally called on members of Anti-Bunkering unit of IPMAN, South South coastal ways and the Degema LGA security outfit to remain law abiding while the outcome of the Police investigation is being awaited.

Good morning all, through the authorization of the relevant authorities, Tenderlife Rescue Initiative officially handed over most of the children carted away by the Eagle Crack Police team back to their biological mother's yesterday. They have been under the care of the Government children's home at Borokiri for almost 2months now. 18 mothers out of the 25 children were successfully reunited with their children, 6 mothers couldn't come due to the lockdown especially those outside the State while 1 baby had died in their custody (sadly�).

The mother of one out of the four pregnant girls picked up her daughter yesterday. The remaining three are double orphan teenage girls who were homeless. Tenderlife usually gets referrals from Doctors without Borders, WEWE, hospitals, the Ogoni region,well meaning Nigerians and Universities.
WEWE and The aunties of one and the church who brought in two of the pregnant girls were also present but they had no plans to take them amid tears of one to leave.

Tenderlife ED and her lawyer had to beg the Permanent Secretary to continue providing shelter for the remaining three who are homeless. Two of the girls had delivered and it is unsure what will become of them and their babies.

AONN President, Mr.Amaechi prayed with the girls and admonished them to be strong and embrace life skills to prevent further pregnancies. Support for Mankind Executive Director Mrs. Iminabo .O. on behalf of Tenderlife
handed over relief items and a cash token to enable them settle in with their infants mainly their birth certificates, immunization cards, diapers,grains, clothes, provisions, infant milk, drugs and shoes with support from KIISI Trust supporting development in the Ogoni region. Tenderlife has been implementing the KIISI trust and CDC OVC project in Rivers State by reaching a target of 30 OVC (Institutional care) and over 7,000 OVC (Community based care). Many of those provided with Institutional care have been paternal orphans especially from single unmarried ladies whom their partners had denied paternity of the children,saved from trafficking and from abortion.

It was nostalgic for everyone. Happy they were reunited with their children but skeptical about the next steps of their lives.

We therefore call on all relevant stakeholders to begin rethinking programming for these peculiar people. Maternity transit homes are not new all over the world and in Africa but strangely scarce in Nigeria due to the fear of been hastily tagged 'Baby Factory' by the authorities. A transit center affords pregnant girls to choose life for their babies, not to throw them away and to receive training to give them a safe landing in life to pursue their dreams such as entrepreneurial training, life skills, discipleship/ moral building and contraceptive education.

We give God all Praise and adoration for making this day possible and I wish to thank again Mr.Otobo Dennis of CISHAN who loudly voiced our innocence to the public in our moment of trial, Amaechi of AONN and Barr.Henry Ekine who facilitated the release of the Children on the platform of AONN,CISHAN,RINGOCS and CPN. Mad.Josephine and the WEWE team, RIVSACA, Pst.Abiodun, Senior Pastor - Rev.Stephen Akinola and Redemption Ministries Worldwide,Pastor Williams of Eagle Assembly, Women in Mission, and a host of individuals who worked tirelessly physically and spiritually throughout this case especially on the release of the children. God who raised you up for such a time as this will definitely reward you in measures you cannot fathom.

I must thank my better Half,my Husband Ibe Mmakwe who was a strong Pillar for me and our biological children.

IN THE NATIONAL INDUSTRIAL COURT OF NIGERIA

IN THE PORT HARCOURT JUDICIAL DIVISION

HOLDEN AT PORT HARCOURT.



BEFORE HIS LORDSHIP: HONOURABLE JUSTICE Z. M. BASHIR.



Dated: 3rdday of March, 2020 SUIT NO: NICN/PHC/17/2019



BETWEEN:

1. THE REGISTERED TRUSTEES OF AKELSLAU DRIVERS

ASSOCIATION PORT HARCOURT

2. ENGR. ABAZU ONYEDIKACHI ELVIS---------------------- CLAIMANTS



AND



1. NATIONAL UNION OF ROAD TRANSPORT WORKERS (NURTW)

PORT HARCOURT BRANCH

2. EJEKWU IHIEJIRIKA IBE

3. OGUN CHARLES

(DPO ELELENWO POLICE STATION)

4. COMMISSIONER OF POLICE

RIVERS STATE POLICE COMMAND------------------------ DEFENDANTS



Representations:

N. C. Wombu for the Claimants.

M.O. Nwabali for the Defendants.


The foregoing claim is considered in the light of the declaration made by this court that the Claimants have the right to form an association of their choice and the members of same are free to join the said association without any form of oppression or intimidation or interference from the Defendants so long as the activities of the Claimants are within the ambit of the law. This court also holds firmly that no person is to be compelled to join any association or trade union as the membership of such association or trade union must be voluntary. This right is subject to other provisions of the law such as enactments by the State or simply regulations on who can form a toll gate on the road and collect money from the road users, otherwise, the society will turn chaotic when everyone begins to sell tickets on the road.

Consequent upon the position of the law and the grant of reliefs 1 to 3, this court is inclined to restrain the Defendants from compelling the Claimants’ members to join the NURTW or any other trade union or association which they do not wish to join. The said relief 6 is consequently granted as prayed.

In the final analysis, the sole issue for determination is largely resolved in favourof the Claimants and the case of the Claimants is found to be meritorious in the extent to which the reliefs 1,2,3 and 6 have been granted while same lacks merit in the extent to which reliefs 4 and 5 have failed and have been refused.

Judgment is accordingly entered.

I make no order as to cost.

…………………………………………………………

HON. JUSTICE Z. M. BASHIR

JUDGE.
Read More on
Judgment Delivered by Hon. Justice Z. M. Bashir at NICN- PortHarcourt Judicial Division on 2020-03-03 Between THE REGISTERED TRUSTEES OF AKESLAU DRIVERS ASSOCIATION PORT-HARCOURT & ORS -VS- NATIONAL UNION OF ROAD TRANSPORT WORKERS PORT- HARCOURT & 3 ORS. Click the Link below to Read

----http://judgement.nicnadr.gov.ng/details.php?id=4467

A group known as Civil Society Coalition for HIV/AIDS and other related Health Diseases has revealed that the operation of TenderLife Rescue Mission,an orphanage home busted by the Eagle Crack Police Unit last Wednesday at Woji,Port Harcourt is known to the Ministry of Social Welfare contrary to the claims by the Commissioner Inimie Aguma Esq that the ministry is not aware of the existence of the orphanage home.
In a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Friday,the Chairman of the coalition,Comrade Otobo Dennis disclosed that the Ministry of Social Welfare in a letter signed by Mr. Iminabo. R. Fubara,a Director in Social welfare department on July 3,2019 an addressed to TenderLife Rescue Initiative(TRI) gave them one year probation to function and practice in the state within the confines of the law.
The Civil Society activist explained that himself and a representative of the Ministry visited TRI office last week Thursday to ascertain if the Non Governmental Organization is still operating within the confines of the law.
Comrade Dennis expressed shock that the Ministry of Social Welfare would deny knowledge of operation of the orphanage home even when the ministry was responsible for monitoring grant given to TRI.
The activist criticized the Rivers State Police command for not carrying out due diligence before arrest of the operators of the orphanage home and their subsequent parade by the Police.
The Chairman of the coalition added that the Civil Society group will do everything within the armbit of the law to prove that TRI is an orphanage home and not a baby factory as claimed by the Police.
Our correspondent reports that TenderLife Rescue Initiative is registered with Corporate Affairs Commission(CAC) of Federal Republic of Nigeria with registration number (CAC/IT/N0 113298).Article 3 of aims and objectives of the CAC documents cited by our reporter states that TRI aims to rescue young girls from abortion and to provide succour for them to deliver their babies safely among others.
Our reporter also cited letter of introduction/collaboration written to National Agency For Prohibition of Trafficking In Persons(NAPTIP) which was duly acknowledged by the agency. Comrade Dennis argued that how can an organization the Police claims is a baby factory and child trafficking syndicate introduce herself to an agency saddled with responsibility of prohibition of child trafficking. Another paper cited by our reporter shows letter of recommendation by Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare dated 3rd of October,2018 which recommended TenderLife Rescue Initiative to implement services in the Ogoni region of Rivers State under KIISI Trust fund .

PIND and RIVTAF Nigeria Partner to Build Technical Skills for Youth Employment in Rivers State

January 31 2019 – To tackle the challenge of youth unemployment facing governments and development partners in Nigeria and the Niger Delta region in particular, the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with RIVTAF Nigeria Limited on January 31, 2020 to partner on its Niger Delta Youth Employment Pathways (NDYEP) project that is working to equip at least 3,000 unemployed, out of school and vulnerable youth in the region with market relevant skills to secure sustainable jobs.

Youth restiveness is often linked to unemployment, poverty and lack of economic opportunities. Despite the decades of steady economic growth, Nigeria has not made much progress in curbing youth unemployment as it still suffers from an expanding population of unemployable youth. The 2018 third quarter Labour Force Statistics report by the National Bureau of Statistics showed that more than 55% of youth in the labour force are either unemployed or underemployed. The unemployment figure is even worse for women at 26.6% compared to men at 20.3%.

With an unemployment rate that is higher than the national average, the Niger Delta harbours a significant number of unemployed youth. For example, in the third quarter of 2018, Akwa Ibom and Rivers States recorded the highest unemployment rates at 37.7% and 36.4% respectively.

According to Emeka Ile, PIND’s Niger Delta Youth Employment Pathways Manager, ‘’addressing this youth unemployment issue is probably the most critical development challenge for governments and all actors at the national and subnational levels, as the situation is a natural trigger for conflict escalation’’.

To contribute to stemming the rising tide of unemployment, PIND, with funding from the Ford Foundation, initiated the NDYEP project in 2017 to pilot models of skills training that not only equips youth with market relevant technical skills in key growth sectors but supports them to transition into employment and entrepreneurship as pathways to work in the agricultural, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Renewable energy (solar) and building construction sectors.

‘’By the end of 2018, over 1,400 youth had completed the technical, soft and entrepreneurship training program over the year one target of 1,000, with over 450 of them already linked to waged employment or starting their own enterprises’’ said Ile.

‘’With the success of the pilot model, there is an immense opportunity to apply lessons learned and cascade the benefits to more youth’’ Ile stated ‘’but doing this would require more partners, and PIND’s partnership with RIVTAF Nigeria, re-enforces this need for actors to work together towards improving employment opportunities and give youths in the state, technical training that meets specific industry requirements’’.

RIVTAF Nigeria Limited, a special purpose vehicle incorporated through partnership between TAF Nigeria Homes Limited and the Government of Rivers State shares in this ideal and is committed to increasing the pool of youth with the right technical skills for work in the construction sector. Ile explained that ‘’PIND and RIVTAF clearly understands that unless the youth are gainfully employed, peace may remain an illusion’’.

In signing the MOU to collaborate on the implementation of the NDYEP project, PIND and RIVTAF will leverage their combined capabilities, and technical expertise to promote information sharing, business linkages and partnerships for youth development in the region.
Through this initiative, RIVTAF and PIND will provide opportunities and linkages for hands-on apprenticeship and work in various building construction skills areas for selected youth trained under the NDYEP program. ‘’It is our expectation that this partnership will further demonstrate and galvanise government and private sector investments in youth development and employment’’ added Ile


ENDS

Media contact:
Chichi Nnoham-Onyejekwe, Knowledge & Communications Manager, chichi@pindfoundation.org or +234 8172064628.


About PIND
The Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND Foundation) is a Nigerian non-profit corporate social enterprise established in 2010 by Chevron Corporation as a regional strategy for addressing the multi-faceted and deep-rooted social and economic problems in the Niger Delta rather than the symptoms. PIND focuses on economic development and peacebuilding because one is not possible without the other. PIND works to achieve this by growing networks of international and local partners to collaborate in developing and implementing innovative program solutions that will result in stability and increase in income and employment in the region. This would, in turn, contribute to our end goal of reducing poverty and conflict in the Niger Delta.
For more information, visit www.pindfoundation.org; follow @PINDFoundation on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

About RIVTAF
RIVTAF Nigeria Limited is a special purpose vehicle incorporated through partnership between TAF Nigeria Homes Limited and the Government of Rivers State that developed a middle to high-income housing estate in Port Harcourt known as RIVTAF Golf Estate, the largest luxury housing estate in the South-South region of Nigeria built on about 40 hectares of land. It is a luxury estate of 1,000 homes with delivery of infrastructures such as excellent landscaping, water reticulation, sewage and electricity systems, recreation centre, a golf course, shopping mall and 24 hours of both armed and unarmed security operatives.
TAF Nigeria Homes Limited is a sister company of TAF Africa Global (The Gambia) Limited, a The Gambian company that has been in the real estate business in other African countries for 30 years.