Okowa congratulates Gov. Ikpeazu at 58

Vice Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Governor of Delta, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated his Abia counterpart, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, on his 58th birth anniversary.

Okowa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, commended the governor for his outstanding achievements in the development of "God's own State", describing him as an accomplished educationist and administrator.

He extolled Ikpeazu for his patriotic and unrelenting service to the PDP and the nation, and charged him to sustain the momentum for the service of his people and mankind.

Okowa specifically lauded the governor for the Osisioma flyover bridge and interchange in Aba, the commercial nerve centre of the state.

He also remarked that the governor's agricultural revolution in his state which crystallised in the planting of no fewer than four million seedlings of oil palm and the successful completion of four palm kernel oil processing plants in Obingwa and Ugwunagbo in Umuahia North and Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Areas was audacious and commendable.

He stated that Ikpeazu's aggressive rebranding of Abia as the undisputed Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) "centre of excellence" in the country and beyond, propelled by ``Made-in-Aba’’ campaign, had lifted Abia citizens out of poverty with the establishment and growth of many small-scale businesses.

Okowa said that the academic-turned-politician had by dint of hard work and discipline won the admiration and respect of Abians and other Nigerians.

“In the last seven years and half that you have held sway as Governor of Abia, you have remained irrevocably committed to the cardinal principles of good governance predicated on the need to raise the people’s standard of living, provide development, peace and security in the state.

“Your four-point agenda which aims at improving governance, re-orient and restructure the public service as well as provide adequate infrastructure for economic development have created a vibrant economy for the people.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I rejoice with you, a seasoned educationist and my brother governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, as you attain 58 years.

“On this occasion in your life, I celebrate with your family, associates and friends and thank Almighty God for your life which has been laced with remarkable accomplishments,” he stated.

The Governor prayed for longer life for Ikpeazu to sustain his passion of raising young persons academically and provide more service to humanity.

Atiku, a Pan-Nigerian leader, says Aniagwu

Spokesman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Presidential Campaign Council, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has described the party’s Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar as a pan-Nigerian leader and not an ethnic jingoist.

He said that contrary to the comments trailing Atiku's statement in Kaduna, the PDP standard bearer remains a Pan-Nigerian leader and a unifier who had built bridges across the country.

Speaking on Arise TV on Monday night, Aniagwu remarked that Atiku's comment was being misunderstood and quoted out of context, adding that the APC were lashing in on the comment because they lacked what to talk about.

“Atiku is not a man given to ethnic jingoism and will never get involved in acts capable of dividing the country along ethnic, religion or regional lines.

"As a political party the APC has done so badly that they don't have issues to talk about so they will always want to cash in on anything that will take Nigerians away from the real issues.

"Atiku has built bridges across the country as a pan-nigerian and he advocated for a pan-nigerian leader who will be able to take a look at what the entire country needs.

"Atiku is one person that has respect for everybody irrespective of class and that is what is needed to deal with the issues bedeviling our country,"

He said the 2023 election was for the PDP to win because the other political parties were not prepared to deal with the issues.

"At the moment we are trying as much as possible to galvanize a number of Nigerians for us to tell them what the Atiku-Okowa ticket has for Nigerians and that is to rescue our country from where we are at the moment.

"If you take a look at the INEC timetable, only the PDP has started official campaigns, our own business is to stay with the issues and those issues are very well known to us that our country is in a very bad shape at the moment.

"As a party we are coming in to be able to effectively manage our diversity which is at the lowest ebb on account of its mismanagement by the APC.

"Our candidate is coming to address the issues affecting the component units of this country because at the moment the states and local governments are not functioning effectively because they lacked the needed funds to carry out its functions," Aniagwu stated.

He commended the leadership and members of the party in Kaduna state for their unwavering support despite attempts to disrupt the rally in the ancient city by thugs.

Flood: Build Dams, Desilt Major Rivers, Okowa Urges FG

Delta Governor and Vice Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Tuesday, called on the Federal Government to build new dams and desilt major rivers in the country to check flooding, especially when neighbouring countries open their dams.

He also urged the government to make efforts at desilting River Niger and River Benue to deepen the depths of the rivers to accommodate high volume of flood water.

Okowa made the call when he visited flood victims at some Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps in the state.

Camps visited by the governor included those at Ogbe-Afor Primary School and Oneh Primary School in Asaba and Ewulu Mixed Grammar School, Ewulu in Aniocha South Local Government Area.

He told journalists in an interview at the end of the visit that the best way to end the loss of lives and valuables to flood was for the government to take proactive steps towards stalling perennial flooding each time neighbouring countries opened their dams.

While commiserating with families that lost persons and property to the flood, Okowa disclosed that five persons died in various communities, adding that 11 holding camps had been established to take care of those displaced by the flood.

To make the camps comfortable, he said that daily feeding of the IDPs was a priority, and that medical facilities and personnel were in various camps to take care of medical needs of the inmates to avoid possible outbreak of diseases.

"I was informed by the SSG when the team briefed me yesterday that as a result of the flood, five deaths were recorded, although not inside the camps but across the state, and that is very unfortunate.

"We have 11 camps that are currently in place and some of them are in schools and some others are in high places in some locations where the schools have been overrun by the flood water.

"Climate change, obviously, is becoming very impactful globally and it is beginning to affect a lot of issues. The sea levels are rising and so is the water level.

"Another issue is the dam in Cameroon. It always causes a major overflow in our river. From the preliminary information I have, what could be done is to build our own holding dams here in Nigeria and a regular desilting of our rivers.

"And, that is not going to be the state government's function. It is that of the Federal Government because of the type of dam that will be built across the river. So, it is going to be a major dam.

"So, I believe that it is important that the Federal Government will look into it very quickly and begin to start the process," he stated.

Okowa affirmed that the PDP government that would, by the grace of God, be headed by Atiku Abubakar from 2023, would spare no effort in ensuring that the construction of dams and desilting of Rivers Niger and Benue got the desired attention because of the sufferings of Nigerians occasioned by flood.

"When we look at the pains that come to our people cumulatively as a result of the flood and the destruction it brings, it is so huge and runs into several billions.

"So, I think that it is something that the Federal Government would consider building a dam across River Niger to prevent this from happening and I believe that the PDP government under the watch of Atiku will truly take that as a priority.

"We are immediately taking care of the people in the camp, which is the first thing to do by providing food, security and healthcare for them here.

"They have been organised into groups and they are cooking for themselves and we ensure that there is regular supply of food items to cook. So, we are sure that they are not suffering from any form of hunger.

"We can see doctors and nurses here, living under the same conditions as the IDPs just to provide health care. In two of the camps, some pregnant women have already been delivered by the medical personnel.

"You can see that they are well taken care of. In previous years, after their return to their homes, we have always provided some form of assistance and we will also do so this year. We are always compassionate," the governor said.

He called on donor agencies and well-spirited individuals to partner government in alleviating the plights of those affected by the flood, adding that his administration would give assistance to those in IDPs’ camps as soon as the flood was over.

Ogbe-Afor Primary School camp has 1,548 IDPs, Oneh Primary School,1,684 IDPs and 1,475 in the camp at Ewulu.

Highpoint of the visit were primary school children among the IDPs seen receiving lesions from teachers in an improvised classroom at Ogbe-Afor Primary School camp in Asaba.

Ukodhiko Sympathizes With Flood Victims, Says No Place Like Home

The flood has started taken a devastating effect on our people, especially those that are living along the riverine communities and those staying in communities that are prone to flood.

Commenting on the disturbing situation today, the PDP House of Representatives Candidate, Isoko Federal Constituency, Pastor Engr. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko stated that the flood came at a time Nigerians were struggling to cope with the harsh economic reality of the country as a result of the inept handling of Nigeria's economy by the APC-led central administration.

Speaking further, Ukodhiko said; "Images from social media and situation reports from the various communities that are already affected by the flood have shown that the water level keeps rising daily with more families being displaced daily.

"The disturbing video posted by Barr. Duncan Afahakor of the terrible situation of the Umeh bridge which is on the verge of collapse as a result of the continuous rise of the water levels is worrisome because the bridge is the only access road to Umeh, an Isoko community located along the East-West road, and a major producer of food crops.

"Outside the attendant socio-economic losses which our people have suffered as a result of the flood due to the destruction of their crops and property; it is pertinent to note that our people who stay along the coastal communities are predominantly farmers and traders and as such, this flood is going to hurt them till mid-next year or till even late next year, as most of them will not be able to restart their farming activities due to the destruction of their farmlands, inputs, and seedlings for next year planting season.

"I am calling on the Government at all levels to increase the 'emergency situation level' as the ravaging flood menace continues unabated. This has become a National Emergency because the affected people who are now vulnerable, urgently need to be resettled in temporary IDP camps, under proper care.

"Government should put adequate measures in place for evacuation operations, provision of improved IDP care camps, and initiation of on-the-spot assessment of critical infrastructures in affected communities to see if remedial works can be carried out on them pending when the flood will ebb, to forestall full destruction of such infrastructures.

"In a time of natural disaster like this when humanity is affected, it calls for sober reflection and collaborative effort of all well-meaning individuals, religious bodies, NGOs, humanitarian organizations, politicians, and Governments at all levels to rise to the occasion and provide succor to those who are affected.

"Our people who are unfortunate in these trying moments as a result of the flood need us, and we must rise to the occasion to provide them with interim relief as a way of cushioning the devastating effect the flood would have on them, psychologically and emotionally.

"Sincerely, I sympathize with all the victims of the flood, and my thoughts go to all the families and the communities that are affected by the scourging flood, and especially to those who have lost their sources of livelihood, I empathize with them as the ravaging flood has adversely plunged them into a precarious situation.

"I know they are not feeling great now, but with the right support, I am confident they will surely get through it. We must collectively do all within our means to reach out to the people who are affected and ensure we provide some form of assistance to them, as our attention now should be on how to rescue and evacuate those that are still stranded in the flooded communities.

"I earnestly pray that the flood should start receding so that our displaced people can return to their homes on time, as there is no place like home" Ukodhiko added.

State Police, panacea to Nigeria's security challenges - Okowa

Delta Governor and Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Wednesday said one veritable measure for addressing insecurity in Nigeria was for States to operate their separate police systems.

He stated this in his remarks at the annual conference of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in Abuja, and noted that there had been a consensus among the citizenry for State Police in the country as a way of reducing crime rate.

Okowa said that it was unfortunate that the Federal Government had remained indifferent on the issue, and assured that PDP administration would enact a law to empower States to run their separate Police systems.

According to him, with State Police where indigenes will ensure protection of lives and property in their areas, criminal activities would be curbed drastically.

He particularly stated that State Police would help in the effective enforcement of anti-open-grazing law in the states.

The vice-presidential candidate reaffirmed that a PDP government in the country would ensure that some powers were devolved to the states for better development of all areas across the country.

He said that the country's economy was in a bad state, and promised that Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) as the bedrock of every economy, an Alhaji Atiku Abubakar administration would give that sub-sector priority attention.

He added that to attract and stimulate investment in the country under a PDP government, energy issues and other malignant infrastructural drawbacks would be aggressively addressed.

2023: Why APC is shying away from Buhari's records - Aniagwu

Peoples Democratic Party PDP Presidential Campaign Spokesman, Mr Charles Aniagwu says the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was running away from campaigning with President Muhammadu Buhari's achievements because it plunged Nigerians into deeper hunger and poverty.

He said that the APC destroyed virtually all the building blocks erected by the PDP prior to 2015 when the party took over the reins of governance.

Speaking on AIT's "Democracy Today" on Monday night, Aniagwu said that the APC Presidential candidate and his handlers were always referring to Lagos in their campaigns because the party had failed Nigerians on their campaign promises.

He lampooned the APC for using Lagos as benchmark for their campaign, adding that Lagos wasn't functioning well for the citizens.

"The PDP's 16years record is attractive enough to run on because things were much better in 2015 than they are now and you could see that those contesting on the platform of the ruling party APC are so scared of mentioning their achievements.

"Each time they talk they take you to Lagos, a Lagos that is not even functioning well in the first place.

"But on the basis of what we did even in the first 16 years, we don't have to run away from it and I can tell you that we liberalised the telecoms sector, pension reforms, banking consolidation, and setting up a number of institutions to fight corruption, EFCC, ICPC, Due Process Office and many more.

"In that 16 years we ensured that Nigerians were united but in the last 7 years under the APC, those things that put us together have been so bastardised.

"We are very proud of running on our records and Atiku Abubakar and his running mate Dr Ifeanyi Okowa have seen the many challenges bedevilling the country and they have mapped out strategies to reposition the country to function effectively.

"Those who asked for change in 2015 has seen that the change they asked for did not yield the dividends of democracy they so desired and i can assure you that Atiku-Okowa will make a difference,"

The PDP Presidential Campaign Spokesman took a swipe on the APC for holding a campaign rally on a Sunday morning describing the move as insensitive.

"I watched with dismay how the APC organised a campaign rally on a Sunday morning in this country, when people are supposed to be worshipping God, they were very busy in Lagos blocking everybody in the name of rally.

"That was insensitive and it simply tells you clearly that they don't understand the sensibilities of this country.

"Just imagine like a man who wakes up on a Friday afternoon and decides to organise a rally in a place where people are supposed to pass to the mosque to pray not only for their well-being but for the good of our country.

"It tells you that the fears of most Nigerians in respect to their inability to understand the diversity of this country especially their decision on same faith ticket is real.

"If they understand, they will not make that kind of mistake on a Sunday morning," Aniagwu said.

He stated that the PDP will continue to speak to the Nigerian people on the issues plaguing the country and how it intends to provide solutions to them.

"What we have come here to do in Uyo is to have an interface with our people, and before the campaign there was a meeting of leaders of the South-South zone where they spoke frankly to one another on the challenges facing the party and the country.

"Whatever decision reached here to get the country out of its quagmire is a decision based on consensus-building among the different political zones in our country.

"What we have done in Uyo and the crowd you saw there is a clear testament to the fact that PDP has moved beyond testing the microphone to raising the sound a notch higher for Nigerians to get clear signals of the solutions we are offering.

"The crowd is organic and it shows that we have got the supporters across the country and we have said that we needed to tell Nigerians what we are bringing on board to rescue the country.

"The campaign flag-off is another first by the PDP and it is clear that going by the INEC guidelines only PDP is meeting up with the timetable and it is an indication that is the only party that is very much prepared for the challenges ahead.

"All the other political parties are still thinking of what to do when the PDP has continued to make significant progress and Nigerians will continue to gravitate towards the PDP because they understand that it is the only party that has what it takes to rescue, restore and rebuild Nigeria," Aniagwu stated.

Ukodhiko mourns Archbishop Apena

By Ajiri-Oghene Oreh

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives Candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency, Pst Jonathan Ukodhiko has expressed shock at the death of the first Delta Pentecostal Archbishop, Christian Aggrey Ovwoma Apena who died at the age of 91.

In condolence message on Monday, Ukodhiko described the death as a “colossal loss, so painful not only to the Apena family and the Christian community but Isoko at large“.

“The late Archbishop Apena was the first Pentecostal Bishop in Delta State and the First Archbishop who consecrated many bishops and archbishops in our dear State.

“He was an impactful teacher at the St Michael’s College at Oleh and retired as a devoted principal who contributed immensely to the sustenance of peace and the development of education in Isoko until his demise.

“The late Apena was introduced into the Anglican family by his late father who was the first pastor in Isoko having been ordained in December 31, 1931.

“Ordained 49years ago on January 5, 1973, the late Archbishop Christian Apena was the founder of the Bethesda Church International Inc who was noted for winning many souls for Christ.

“We will sorely miss the fearless and inspirational Archbishop Apena who stood out as a General in the Army of the Most High God, his teachings which enabled many find purpose and meaning, and his role in ensuring an interface between the church and the State for the benefit of both governments and the people of Isoko.

“However, we are consoled that our late spiritual father left behind a legacy of humility, integrity, truthfulness and steadfastness to God.

“Yes, the late Archbishop Christian Aggrey Apena lived an exemplary good life, fought a good fight, kept the faith and ran the full course of the race and ended well strongly,” Ukodhiko added.

2023: “We are taking our campaigns to the units in Isoko North” - Ogwah

By Ajiri-Oghene Oreh

A chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Hon Mike Ogwah has said that the party in Isoko North Local Government Area would take its electioneering campaigns to the people in all the polling units.

Ogwah, who is the LGA Campaign Cordinator of the PDP for Isoko North made the revelation on Sunday at his hometown, Owhelogbo in statement on the PDP’s Official Flag-Off of the 2022/23 Presidential Campaigns on Monday at Uyo in Akwa-Ibom State.

According to him, “History will repeat itself in the 2023 general elections; as it would be the second election in Nigeria’s electoral history that will witness the defeat of the ruling party, APC, by the major opposition party, the PDP”

“Here in Isoko North Local Government Area, the PDP are in firm control as our people are in complete rejection of the APC, and are in total support of the candidates of the PDP”

“We have genuinely large followership in all units of the 13Wards in our LGA, and we will hold meetings with our followers in a view of resolving all contending issues”

“Yes, for all Party leaders and followers in Isoko North, it is operation validly deliver your polling units for the party in the 2023 general elections“

“However, we are not complacent of the people’s support of the PDP as we are devising strategies of winning, we will take our campaigns to every nooks and crannies of our LGA and hold our rallies“

“You can see the mood of the people, the level of awareness , the mass mobilization, the enthusiasm and the commitment of the people to the PDP’s rescue mission “

Ogwah, a Senior Special Assistant on Political Matters to the Delta Governor, noted “the PDP has reinvented itself, and it is seizing the initiative of confronting the APC and navigating Nigeria out of the miasma we are currently“

“And for us here in Isoko North, we are taking the assuring message of hope, of quality legislative representation, good governance and delivery of concrete democracy dividends to our people wherever they are”

“We will not leave out neither town or village nor hamlet in Isoko North as we will visit our people wherever they can be found in their homestead, farmstead and markets” Ogwah added

2023: APC has no plan for Nigeria – Aniagwu

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Campaign Spokesman, Mr Charles Aniagwu, on Saturday said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) had no plan to better the lots of Nigerians.

He said that in the past seven years, the ruling party had continued to mismanage the nation’s diversity, economy, education, and security architecture.

Speaking on the "Morning Show" on Arise Television, Aniagwu said the PDP's presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar would energise the country's private sector to drive the nation’s economy to provide jobs for the people.

While reacting to allegations by Lai Mohammed that PDP copied from what the APC was doing, Aniagwu said the APC had no single plan to copy from, adding that Atiku had long prepared his policy document titled "My Covenant With Nigerians".

According to him, the APC has no single plan to develop this country, if they had any how have they executed those plans?

"If they had a plan, Nigeria would not be where we are today, because they would have known that it was important to manage our diversity, so that everybody is well taken care of.

"Nigerians helped them into power in 2015 and they left them behind after failing to fulfill all their campaign promises.

"Atiku's plan for Nigeria is generic and it is resting on the fact that our Presidential candidate and his running mate governor Ifeanyi Okowa understand what the issues are.

"Atiku didn't just wake up to declare for President, he has been preparing for this over time and he is adequately apprised with what it takes to indeed rescue and rebuild Nigeria," he said.

Aniagwu who is also Delta State Commissioner for Information said only Atiku was prepared to lead as other candidates weren't ready with their plans.

"Each time you ask other presidential candidates they will tell you that they will soon come up with their manifesto and that tells you that they are not prepared for the task ahead.

"Nigeria is currently at an intensive care unit and does not require a leader who is not adequately prepared to lead her out of its present challenges," Aniagwu added.

He said the party’s plan rests on the clear understanding of the issues of mismanagement of the nation’s diversity, insecurity, economy and unemployment among others.

"Because of the failure of the APC government to understand the diversity of Nigeria they have poorly mismanaged this diversity making Nigerians to be at war with each other.

"Atiku says he is coming to ensure that this war ceases by ensuring that all ethnic groups are on the table to discuss issues as they affect their people and this brings confidence.

"Atiku is prepared to unite Nigerians because most of the challenges in the economy, security and unemployment are symptomatic of the very poor management of our diversity.

"Beyond his clear understanding the nation's diversity, Atiku is a man with a CEO mentality, he has been a businessman and he understands what it takes to run a business and so he is coming to ensure that jobs return to our people," he stated.

On Fuel Subsidy, he said Atiku's administration would not continue with the present subsidy regime as it had not been beneficial to the ordinary man it was meant to serve.

"The present subsidy regime has not been the best for us as a country, Atiku isn't against subsidy but he believes that when you subsidize, it must go to the actual people you are subsidising in this case those who don't have the purchasing power.

"At present, Nigeria is subsidising other countries and those who can afford to pay. Our subsidy as it is now is not reaching out to the poor.

"Atiku says he is going to tinker with the subsidy regime by inviting private sector players to build functional refineries which will bring down the price on account of competition so that at the end of the day there wouldn't be anything to subsidise because the people's purchasing power would have been enhanced,"

On education, Atiku says he is going to revitalise the education sector by collaborating with the state governments to ensure that the education sector is managed effectively.

"All our universities in Delta are in session while others across the country have been on strike for 8 months now, we were able to achieve this because Governor Ifeanyi Okowa who is Atiku's running mate understands how to ensure that the students remain in school.

"Having that kind of partnership in their administration by the grace of God means that same principles Okowa deployed in ensuring that the lecturers and students remained in the class rooms in Delta would also be brough to bear across the nation," Aniagwu stated.

Delta repudiates Ayakoromo bridge contract

Delta Government on Friday said the multi-billion naira contract for the construction of Ayakoromo bridge in Burutu Local Government Area of the state had been repudiated due to poor performance by the contractor.

Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Mr Noel Omodon, told newsmen in Asaba, that the decision on the contract was taken at the State Executive Council meeting presided by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

According to him, Exco approved the repudiation of the Ayakoromo bridge contract because the contractor was not able to carry on with the job as expected.

"The pace of work has become so slow and they are having their own internal challenges and because it is one of the very important projects we are desirous of completing, Exco approved the termination of the contract to enable us get a new contractor to complete the project as soon as possible," he explained.

Omodon also disclosed that Exco approved the 2023 budget estimates for transmission to the House of Assembly for approval.

"The main purpose of today's Exco meeting was to consider the 2023 budget estimates and we have approved it for onward transmission to the State House of Assembly for consideration and approval"

The commissioner who was flanked by his counterparts in Rural and Riverine Roads, Chief Solomon Golley and Girl-Child Empowerment, Mrs Nkechi Chukwurah, said Exco also approved the construction of Kwekagbor Road opposite Summit Junction, Asaba; Mission Road, Akumazi in Ika North East; Idheze internal road; Olomoro-Enwhe Road and Yanga Market Oleh-Irri-Aviara Road all in Isoko South.

He said more projects were reviewed due to rising cost of diesel, granite, sharp stone, rods, bitumen, asphalt among other construction materials.

"Exco approved the review for Orere Bridge, Achala-Ibusa Road, NYSC Road Issele-Uku; and Trans Warri Road and bridges.

"We also approved contracts for the construction of College of Medicine Faculty at University of Delta Agbor; construction of Faculty of Management and Social Sciences in the three new universities among others," he said.

He said Exco also gave approval for some projects to aid the successful hosting of the National Sports Festival billed for November 2022 in Asaba.

PDP crisis over soon, flags-off campaign Oct. 10 - Aniagwu

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Campaign Spokesman, Mr Charles Aniagwu says the crisis rocking the party would soon be over just as the party prepares to flag-off its campaign at Uyo, October 10.

Speaking on Kakaaki on AIT, on Tuesday, Aniagwu said the party’s reconciliation efforts were yielding results bringing hope of resolving the crisis in no distant time.

He said that having inaugurated its Campaign Council, the party would flag-off its campaign on Monday in Uyo, the Akwa-Ibom state capital.

According to Aniagwu, the party’s Presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, his running mate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and other leaders of the party were working hard to resolve all contending issues to enable it present a common front ahead of the 2023 general elections.

"Atiku has said he is not going to leave anybody behind so what we are doing is to ensure that everybody comes on board.

"Not long ago we inaugurated the Campaign Council and that means that the train has left the station but we are very mindful of the fact that as we move along the track of the 2023 general elections, we will stop at different stations to pick both old and new passengers.

"One of the causes of agitation in the country is the inability of the APC to carry parts of the country along in the governance process.

"But beyond the issue of the votes, Atiku is interested in carrying everybody along even after winning the election by the grace of God,"

He said Atiku's 5-point agenda encapsulated in his policy document would address the nagging issues bedeviling the country.

"We are urging all Nigerians including those who are non-aligned to see the need to embrace the Atiku-Okowa ticket in their quest to govern Nigeria from 2023.

"It's on record that Atiku is the only candidate that has been able to bring up a manifesto which is called "My Covenant With Nigerians".

"What he is doing now is part of his desire to carry everybody along and we commend our other governors for remaining in the party to express their grievances within the party.

"I can assure you that at the end of the day the PDP will move as one family and as a cohesive force in addition to bringing other nigerians on board with a view to reversing the ugly situation that we find our country today.

"Be rest assured that in no too distant time, you will see a very peaceful PDP."

He further said the Atiku-Okowa mandate would take care of the desires of the country's youth population and urged Nigerians to support the ticket in its bid to rescue, rebuild and reposition the country from the ineptitude of the APC-led Federal Government.

"With Atiku's plan, a number of issues that agitates the youths of our country would be addressed so that the country can begin to function and function properly,"

He said the APC were always referring to Lagos because the federal government had failed in the past seven years, adding that Abuja was becoming congested because the APC failed to construct new roads in the Federal Capital Territory.

"Because their performance at the national level is very abysmal hence they are running away from their real records and always referring to Lagos, a Lagos that gets flooded anytime it rains or the Lagos that people can't move freely because of traffic congestion?

"For us we are going to by the grace of God talk about the country that works for all of us not a Lagos that is not even adding value to the standard of living of the people who live there.

" The kind of traffic congestion now in Abuja wasn't there in 2015 and this is largely because the APC government has not been able to construct new roads since 2015 when they came on board," Aniagwu stated.

Okowa gets CON national honours award

Governor of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, will on October 11, 2022, be honoured with a national award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, said in a statement that the selection of the Governor for the award was conveyed in a letter by the Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Sen. George Akume.

He said that the minister’s letter stated that approval for the award to be conferred on Okowa was given by Buhari, and that the ceremony would hold at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, at 9 a.m.

According to Ifeajika, the letter from Akume to the Governor stated that `` I have the honour to formally inform you that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, has approved the conferment of the National Honour on you, in the rank of CON (Commander of the Order of the Niger)’’.

He said that the event would involve other recipients in various categories of national honours award, and that it was for 2022.

Delta warns residents against impending flood

Delta Government on Friday alerted residents in flood prone areas to relocate to higher planes as flood continues to ravage parts of the state.

Director General, State Bureau of Orientation, Mr. Eugene Uzum who gave the warning at a news conference in Asaba, said that the state government was concerned about the lives and property of citizens living in flood prone areas in the face of Nigerian Metrological Agency’s forecast of heavy rains and flooding in the country.

According to Uzum, the State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has approved the setting up of the Inter-ministerial Flood and Disaster Management Committee headed by Secretary to the State Government, Chief Patrick Ukah to mitigate the challenges expected by the impending ravaging flood.

He said the Committee is saddled with the responsibility of carrying out aggressive sensitization of citizens on the impending flood and opening, maintenance and management of Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camps throughout the state.

"You will recall that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) have been consistent in their annual flood forecast and this year's prediction is no exception.

"As a proactive government, the Delta State Government led by Senator Ifeanyi Okowa has taken proactive measures to ensure that there is no loss of lives and minimal damage to property.

"In 2012 we had flooding that was very drastic across the country of which Delta had its fair share of the challenge and since then it has become a recurring decimal.

"The 2022 flood forecast is estimated at 3,000mm and 4,000mm and this is very huge compared to what we had in previous years.

"It’s important to note that the Office of the SSG and the Ministry of Environment have been monitoring the flood levels along River Niger and its tributaries," he said.

The Orientation boss further said the State Government was working with ALGON, Traditional institutions and Presidents-General of communities in the state to further sensitize the people.

He said the State Orientation Bureau in conjunction with the Ministry of Information have continued to bring up-to-date information on the impending flood to the people.

"At the moment the water levels have moved up and government has started relocating them to ensure that no loss of lives and minimal damage to property.

"We encourage our people who are at the low lands to move to upland while crops should be harvested to avoid total loss of agricultural products.

"Today the floods are here and from available records, it has risen to 3,200mm and 3,400mm and expected to get to 4,000mm based on the forecast of NiMet and other agencies.

"So what we have done is to take this information to the people because of the challenges of ignorance and cultural beliefs and we are convinced that they would relocate accordingly.

"The setting up of IDP camps would be based on needs assessment going by the level of flood waters," Uzum stated.

2023: Ukodhiko Will Give Isoko Nation Quality Representation

By Umukoro Mario Puzo

Hon Jonathan Ukodhiko, the PDP Flagbearer for Isoko Federal Constituency remains a man of too many good parts who ventured into politics not to acquire wealth for himself but to make Impressive Impacts that will not only better the lives of the people but that which will advance Isoko Nation.

Ukodhiko will not only consolidate on the gains of Rt Hon Leo Ogor's representation but will do more for Isoko Federal Constituency and will give Isoko Nation Quality Representation that will be highly enviable.

The All Inclusive representation that will be enjoyed by Constituents across Isoko Nation if Hon Ukodhiko Jonathan is elected will be garnished with the execution of People Oriented Projects that will transform Isoko Nation.

Yes, we are confident that Hon Ukodhiko will Sponsor Quality Bills that will be beneficial to Isoko Nation and the Country at large. Bills that will put Isoko Nation on the Spotlight of Economic Growth, bills that will put the Interest of Isoko Nation first, bills that will attract federal presence to Isoko Nation as well as bills that will reposition the country.

No doubt, Hon Ukodhiko Jonathan is Prepared to deliver the dividends of Democracy to the People of Isoko Nation, hence as a People we must eschew every form of bitterness and embrace, support Hon Ukodhiko Jonathan Ajiroghene for House of Representatives, Isoko Federal Constituency come 2023.

Ukodhiko's plans to create an Isoko Investment Company if elected will no doubt drive Industrialization across Isoko Nation which will definitely create jobs for the people of Isoko Nation. This is what we all as a people need to hold with our two hands and throw weight behind Hon Ukodhiko.

Yes the stories of many youths across Isoko Nation will change because the planned Youth Empowerment Scheme of Hon Ukodhiko Jonathan is very juicy and it will cause many of our Isoko Youths to be self reliant.

Hon Ukodhiko Jonathan Ajiroghene will not dissappoint the good people of Isoko Nation, he has over time displayed unwavering commitment and dedication in delivering the dividends of democracy to the people, hence, he deserves the support of all irrespective of our political affiliations.

Comrades Apologise Says Endorsement of Agege/Osanebi Is Not Real, As Delta State Comrade Forum President Disassociate Self -- MFDYP

The President and Members of the Delta State Comrade Forum has disassociated the group and themselves from the endorsement of the Governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress Sen. Ovie Omo-Agege and his Deputy Hon Friday Osanebi.

Speaking yesterday in Asaba during the Comrade Forum meeting, the Former Senate President of the National Association of Delta State Students and Delta Central Ambassador of M.O.R.E For Delta Youths Project Comr Dorume Stephen fumed at the attempt of Some Comrades to dragged the dignity and reputation of the Delta State Comrade Forum to the mud.

He described the gathering as a mushroom gathering because their endorsement is not for the Interest of the Delta State Comrade forum, It's a mushroom gathering because their endorsement it's not from the Comrade Forum, the gathering is mushroom because they are distractors of this forum, the gathering is a mushroom because the endorsement is not valid, the gathering is a mushroom because they did not represent the Delta State Comrade Forum"The general public should notes that they didn't represent the Delta State Comrade Forum" he added.

The Former National Vice President of National Association of Delta State Students and Deputy Director General of M.O.R.E For Delta Youths Project Comr Ugagaoghene Ogheneyole frowned at the endorsement of Agege/Osanebi describing it as an attempt to destroy the Delta State Comrade Forum.

He said as a former Chapter President, former National Vice President and Former Acting President of National Association of Delta State Students he is well grounded to use the name of the Association to endorse any candidate but he choose not to do such because only himself does not make up the Comrade Forum.

Comr Donald Igudia, a Committed APC Member noted that Members of the Comrade Forum irrespective of your party must not endorse any candidate either APC or PDP with the name of the Delta State Comrade adding that the Comrade Forum can pay a Solidarity visit to any of the Governorship candidate stating the needs of Deltans and that of the Forum but not to endorse any candidate , he apologised to members of Delta State Comrade Forum who are Members of People's Democratic Party PDP and other Political Parties saying they are very sorry for the endorsement of Agege/Osanebi which he said is regrettable.

The President of Delta State Comrade Forum, Comr Akpotoboro Oghenemaro expressed his displeasure over the ugly attitudes of some Members of the Forum, he called on all Members not to make themselves so cheap before Politicians noting that there is only one Delta State Comrade Forum, he disassociated the Delta State Comrade Forum from the purported endorsement adding that the Comrade Forum has not and did not endorsed any Governorship Candidate as far as the forum it's concern

Okowa felicitates Obi of Owa on 63rd coronation anniversary

Governor of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated the Obi of Owa, Dr Emmanuel Efeizomor, on his 63rd coronation anniversary.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, on Monday in Asaba, the governor described the renowned traditional ruler as a man of peace and extreme humility.

He said that Obi Efeizomor who is immediate past Chairman of Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, was a symbol of equanimity and unity and had impacted positively on his people and the state.

The governor said that the monarch's long reign had recorded massive development, remarkable transformation and enduring peace to Owa kingdom.

According to him, I thank God Almighty for your life because in your reign, Owa land has continued to prosper, with sons and daughters excelling in their various endeavours.

"You have supported wonderful evolution in Owa land as well as ensured that needed peace continues to prevail across the kingdom.

"We appreciate your role and astute contributions when you served diligently as Chairman of Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers.

“As a peace builder, great patriot and elder statesman, you have done your best to positively impact on the development of your kingdom and our State, Delta.

"On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta, I congratulate you, Your Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr) Emmanuel Efeizomor II, the Obi of Owa Kingdom, on the occasion of your 63rd coronation anniversary,” the governor said.

He wished the monarch many more years on the ancient throne of his forebears.

Ukodhiko's representation will leave no stone unturned for Isoko development

By Azilo Isaiah Ogunye

In representative politics, the people and their interest is placed above self. It is about who gets what, when and how. This is why the PDP candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency, Engr Pastor Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko has placed premium on the issue of development.

While in a meeting with his media aides, he said "all communities within his constituency will witness development from schools to road and improvement in general infrastructure.

He said apart from the unification of Isoko nation and youth involvement in governance, every community will benefit from his massive empowerment which he intends to move away from the usual presentation of hair dryers and sewing machines to include more sophisticated training in oil and gas sector, education scholarship for the youths and young graduates as well as other professional studies.

Engr Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko who is a trained engineer, had over the years garnered enough professional experience in the practice of engineering, oil and gas, real estate sectors and he surely will do well.

Let's support and vote the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Engr Pastor Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko for House of Representatives, Isoko Federal Constituency.

2023: UKODHIKO a visionary leader with Isoko agenda

Pastor Engr Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko as a frontline technocrat of International repute has designed a template with the desired avenues of moving the wheels of ISOKO NATION to a higher ground of progress and development when he emerges as the member Representating Isoko Federal Constituency come 2023 which includes:

* PROVISION OF ALL-INCLUSIVE REPRESENTATION.

*UNIFICATION OF ISOKO NATION.

*INITIATION OF QUALITY BILLS FOR ENACTMENT.

*INVOLVEMENT OF YOUTHS IN GOVERNANCE.

*EMPOWERMENT.

*THE NEED TO STOP GAS FLARING TO ENABLE US GENERATE ELECTRICITY IN ISOKO NATION.

*CREATION OF ISOKO INVESTMENT COY.PLC TO DRIVE INDUSTRIALIZATION ON ISOKO LAND FOR JOBS CREATION FOR OUR TEEMING YOUTHS.

The foregoing conspicuously tell us the prodigious and palpable the fact that UKODHIKO is ready for the legislative business, hence he means business of effective representation.

Having interacted with numberless number of people both within and abroad being the flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party to represent great people of Isoko Nation at House of Representatives come 2023, it's a surebet that he would become an exceptional entity at the Green Chambers.

In my recent discussions with Engr Ukodhiko, it's obvious from his choice of words that ISOKO will be in safe hands when it comes to the provision of all-inclusive Representation.The astute Internationally recognized Engr analysed the dynamics of democracy in the country from 1999 till date by prudently pasquinading its impacts on the national administrative system. He's of the notions that he sees Isoko not to have been on Frontline of politics compared to other ethnic nationalities in Delta State and Nigeria at large. He strongly believes in the exemplary attitude of working together for a brighter and better ISOKO NATION as outlined in his agenda of unifying Isoko Nation.

My unreserved appreciation will always go to UKODHIKO who ab-initio indicated the significance of maintaining unity among all facet of governance in our society which includes the Traditional Stools, Religion Bodies,Youths Organs, Political class, Unions etc in the interest of the good people of ISOKO NATION.

Unarguably,with such delectable developments blossoming bountifully in his views towards us,I can boldly hit my chest and say it screamingly that, the road to ISOKO FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY seat at Abuja is safe without any ilk of problem if only we can massively and collectively.��

By Akparorue Mesh Oghenerioke (CHEROKEE)
Special Assistant, SA, on Special Duties to Gov Okowa

#thinkUJA
#VoteUkodhiko
#VoteaUnifier
#Voteeffectiverepresentation
#VoteAllinclusiveRepresentation

2023: Aspiring lawmaker, Ukodhiko, promises empowerment, devt. for Isoko

By Ajirioghene Oreh

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives Candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency, Engr Jonathan Ukodhiko has assured youths he would work for the empowerment and development of the people when elected.

Ukodhiko gave the assurance on Saturday at his country home in Otor-Igho, Isoko North Local Government Area, when he played host to the executive members of the PDP New Generation group in Isoko.

According to him, “the 2023 general election is very important particularly because, the future of the youths have been trampled upon by the APC-led administration,“

He stated that, “our country, Nigeria is on a life support and it is imperative and exigent for the youths of the nation to be involved actively in the rescue agenda of this nation by the PDP.“

The former Delta Energy Commissioner, Ukodhiko expressed his displeasure on the sad state of the nation which had made citizens poorer and businesses crippled.

He noted that, “our Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar and his running mate, our brother, son and leader, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa have the requisite competence and capacity to rescue the nation.

“Our candidate, Alhaji Atiku being a university proprietor knows the value of education and will ensure education is given priority in his administration at levels of governance.

“Also, I want to assure you all, I’m going to House of Representatives to work for the good of Isoko Federal Constituency. I’ll be able to liaise at Abuja for development and empowerment of Isoko people.

“At Abuja, I will fight for the employment of our youths of Isoko, and I will also fight for establishment of businesses for our people to be economically empowered.

“You all here have the capacity to reset the country, but then, you all must go to your various wards and units to campaign seriously for all candidates of our party the PDP.

“The PDP is conscious of its previous mistakes and they are ready to make things right. I must charge you to go to the grassroots and work to reset the country,” Ukodhiko added.

Earlier in his speech, Mr Akpobome Precious, Coordinator of Olomoro Ward who spoke on behalf of the group commended Engr Ukodhiko for his support to the group, assuring that they would take the campaigns of the PDP to the grassroots for the victory of the party at all levels.

Sacking Ayu would've plunged PDP into more crisis - Aniagwu

Spokesperson of the Atiku Abubakar Presidential Campaign Organisation, Mr Charles Aniagwu has given reasons why the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was exploring other options in resolving the crisis rocking the party.

Aniagwu said as a listening party, they were taking a second look at the issues based on what was permissible by the laws of the party.

Speaking on Arise TV on Saturday, Aniagwu said that sacking National Chairman of the party, Senator Iyorchia Ayu would create constitutional crisis for the party which would snowball into greater problems than what the party was currently faced with.

According to him, the main issue being canvassed by the stakeholders is the stepping down of the National Chairman which has now been overtaken by events following the vote of confidence by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party.

"People may misinterpret it to mean calling the bluff of certain stakeholders but that is far from it because the party leadership examined the issues vis-a-vis the provisions of the party’s constitution as amended in 2017.

"When you look at that constitution, there are principal officers called the National Working Committee of the party led by the National Chairman and in the other of hierarchy, the Deputy National Chairman who must also come from same zone with the National Chairman is next in line.

"The third in line is the National Secretary and when you look at these positions, the National Chairman is from the North, the second in command is also from the North by virtue of the provision of the party’s constitution.

"In section 45 of the party’s constitutional in the event of removal or resignation of the National Chairman, the National Deputy Chairman takes over and acts in the position of that National Chairman pending when the party is able to organise another election or do a NEC meeting to be able to take a decision as to how to rearrange the hierarchy of the party," he stated.

He said because the positions were elective positions, even if Ayu were to step down for power to come to the South, the provisions of the constitution of the party would also be offended.

"That can only happen if you can also take a decision to remove the Deputy National Chairman of the party who the lot immediately falls on by provisions of the law.

"Even if the party is able to solve that puzzle by bringing both National Chairman and Deputy to South, the third person in the hierarchy of the National Working Committee of the party is the National Secretary and that is in the South specifically Senator Samuel Anyanwu from Imo State.

"Now if you decide to bring this two positions to the South, have you also made arrangements to take the National Secretary to the North?

"Because of these legal impediments the party examined it that given the time that we have which is just about six months to the general elections, that it may likely snowball into some form of crisis that could trigger a whole lot of discomfort within the party if we proceed to begin to make these changes that there is the tendencies that the party may be embroiled in a crisis that would be worse than the one we are seeing at the moment.

"That greater crisis is what the ruling APC is waiting to happen but the leadership of the party is intelligent enough and am happy that Governor Nyesom Wike and other leaders appreciates the need for the party to move as a whole into the 2023 general elections."

The campaign spokesman further said it was on the basis of this that the party decided to look at what was possible at the moment and that gave room for the resignation of Senator Walid Jibrin and subsequent emergence of Senator Adolphus Wagbara as Chairman Board of Trustees.

"The emergence of Wagbara in the south to join the Vice presidential candidate and National Secretary had created some form of balance in the interim.

"But what is most important is that there is a bigger elephant here which is winning the 2023 general elections because Nigerians are looking up to the PDP to rescue the nation from where we are at the moment.

"I am convinced that our leaders who have been craving for these changes would appreciate the fact that the party is listening but because of time probably when the party may have won the elections in 2023 by the grace of God, we can now proceed to make some of these alterations that may not be injurious to our quest to win the general elections," Aniagwu said.
On the performance of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in Delta and the value he brings to the ticket as Vice-Presidential candidate, Aniagwu, who is Information Commissioner in Delta, said that Okowa had performed tremendously with his 5-point agenda, adding that job creation through skill acquisition has been profound.

He noted Okowa had improved the standard of living of the people by reducing poverty in state which attracted National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) ranking as the second least poor state in the counry in 2018.

On infrastructural development, he said Okowa has constructed well over 1,833km of roads with over 900km of drains across the three Senatorial Districts.

"But what is most important to us is what we have done in the creeks of Delta, area that where hitherto referred to as very difficult terrains to develop, we have made a whole lot of impact in thar region which is why we are enjoying a whole lot of peace in the Niger Delta.

"For a very long time now we have been able to ensure that our brothers and sisters in the creeks are carried along and this is one the things that our principal the Presidential candidate saw and said I need a partner who is progressive in nature.

"A partner that can address the issues of the youths and a partner that can help address the issues of unity of our country because Delta is a microcosm of Nigeria where you have diverse ethnic groups.

"When we live in unity as a country, you will discover that we will return to winning ways, all these other symptomatic malaise in our country will be solved, because issue of corruption, bad economy, insecurity, they happen because our diversity was badly mismanaged by the APC," Aniagwu stated.

Isoko Federal Constituency: Who's better than Ukodhiko?

Ahead of the 2023 House of Representatives general election to elect a candidate to represent the good people of Isoko Federal Constituency, as an interested stakeholder or partner in the affairs of the people of Isoko nation, i have not ceased to ponder on the quality and character of the next House of Representatives member to take over from the cerebral and sagacious Rt. Hon. Leo Ogor to represent the Isoko people in the green chamber of the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Isoko nation has just one seat in the green chamber, meaning Isoko nation as a whole have just one permanent seat at the National Assembly, the highest law making chamber in Nigeria. The man who should occupy that seat must be such that can represent the interests of all the people and not his personal interest or those of some powerbrokers/paymasters. Isoko is in dire need of a man who can stand in the gap, continue and protect the height the out going "legislative general" already placed the Isoko nation at the National Assembly based on public policies and issues of Isoko greatness and development.

In far away United States of America where we borrowed our brand of democracy from, most lawmakers are elected to the legislatives houses because they are ‘names’ in other fields. Such men are considered on the premises of their wealth of experiences to ensure their constituencies benefit from the special qualifications they possesses. This is where Pastor Engr Jonathan Ukodhiko Ajirioghene comes in.

A lawmaker must reach for noble qualities, honor, total dedication, self-discipline, extreme selflessness, exemplary patriotism, sober judgment, and intellectual honesty. It is important to note also that, all this factors are not just in him, he also maintains some professional dignity outside the political environment.

Ukodhiko is an accomplished professional, a technocrat, who has made a name for himself outside the political terrain. He will be going to the House of Representatives to invest honour in the seat by creating and promoting a national perspective on national policies in order to build a prosperous, secure, honest and democratic nation.

In saner climes, a federal lawmaker must be hard-working, intelligent, pragmatic and ethical. A legislator who fails any of those tests will not be able to build coalitions or successfully harness the gains of his professional background to improve his representative capacities. What will stand Ukodhiko out is that he possesses these qualities in abundance and he will certainly make Isoko proud in the House of Representatives if elected. It takes something special to be a House of Representative member because mere fame as a political noisemaker does not fill the bill.

He must excel at protecting his people’s interests and representing its point of view on the issues of the day. He must also don the toga of adviser to the executive on how to handle certain critical assignments of the nation. A federal lawmaker must therefore be an accomplished professional so he could advise in the area he is proficient.

A good federal lawmaker is a man who adheres always to the dictates of his own conscience, a relentless investigator, a researcher into the problems of his people and a man of calm spirit and gait, a gentleman and a trained mind that can carry the worries and pains of his constituents on his shoulders. We have a worthy man of valour in Ukodhiko and missing such a character in the National Assembly will not be what Isoko nation can afford at this critical stage of our development.

The House of Representatives is a 360 man strong assemblage of the best brains in the land, from across the length and breadth of Nigeria. It is a place for the best of the very best a people can afford. Their standing, their background and attainment outside politics invest credibility and honour in the people who elected them. It is a place for men of differing tastes and talents. They sure must possess some talents that will stand them out or distinguish them. Pastor Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko possesses a lot of quality, let's give him our support.

Akpodhoma Michael
Aviara ward 03
Isoko south

All-inclussive representation, hallmark of Ukodhiko's policy thrust.

Umukoro Mario Puzo.

Quality representation is one which the interest of the people and their peculiar needs come first in a legislator's consideration. A kind of representation that seeks to improve the lives of everyone, every age group, social strata and community. This forms the Fundamental policy thrust of Pst Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko, The People's Democratic Party candidate for Isoko Federal Constituency in the 2023 general elections.

Pastor Ukodhiko is a principle based politician who believes that the very essence of politics is to be able to use the instrumentality of state to better the lives of the people and improve their living standard. In his view, the purpose of representation is defeated if it is not centred on the people.

This is why the focal point of his policy thrust which serves as the spring board for the delivery of his promises to the Isoko people is anchored on all-inclusive representation.

Pastor Jonathan Ukodhiko will base all his actions, legislations and representation on the principles of consensus where every stakeholder will be allowed an opportunity to contribute to the ideas that shapes our policies, laws and interventions through town hall meetings, consultations and public opinion poll.

He is aware, that he is going to the National Assembly to represent the good people of Isoko Nation and has committed to speak only from their collective voices and pursue their collective aspirations.

For Pastor Ukodhiko, Isoko deserves the best and will get nothing but the best of representation from him if elected in 2023.

REJOINDER: QUACK FORENSIC REPORT CIRCULATED AND PUBLISHED BY ONE EVANCE IVWURIE CONCERNING RT. HON. SHERIFF FRANCIS OROWHEDOR OBOREVWORI

Our attention has been drawn to ‘Forensic Report’ being circulated in print and social media by one Evance Ivwurie, a known supporter of Chief David Edevwie, who came a distant second position in the primary election conducted by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on 25th May, 2022 to elect its candidate to contest the forthcoming Delta State Governorship election in 2023.

Following the landslide victory of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orhowedor Oborevwori, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly as the winner of the election, Evance Ivwurie has led a pack of attack dogs in a series of failed efforts to discredit and tarnish the image of the candidate freely elected by the delegates of the party in a free and fair contest.

The ‘forensic report’ is the latest in a series of publicity stunts hatched by Evance Ivwurie and aimed at discrediting the candidature and good reputation of the Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orhowedor Oborevwori.

To further his obnoxious goal, Evance Ivwurie has filed a criminal charge in his personal name and private capacity at the District Court, Abuja, wherein he alleges a case of identity theft against Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orhowedor Oborevwori. The ‘forensic report’ which he is circulating is allegedly the proof of his allegation that Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orhowedor Oborevwori stole the identity of another member of the Oborevwori family known as Francis Oborevwori. A colossal joke and an indication of the unhealthy desperation of Evance Ivwurie and his sponsor.

The ‘Forensic Report’ is the product of one Chief Reginald Udunze, who described himself as a DSP (Rtd) and Chief Consultant of Apex Forensic Nigeria Limited.

Opponents of Oborevwori would like to con his supporters and unsuspecting members of the public into believing unfounded allegations of identity theft. However, a closer examination of the report exposes it as an unreliable document prepared by a “hired gun”. It is neither independent nor credible and should be disregarded in its entirety. We draw the attention of independent thinking members of the public to the following.

Equipment:

Any IT hardware and software used for the viewing, processing, and analysing of imagery for a Facial Image Comparison must be fit for purpose and validated for its intended use. At the barest minimum, this validation should state if the process results in any visual loss of quality to the displayed or outputted imagery and if this loss impacts the subsequent examination and comparison. It is this information that gives the process credibility.

The report states that the analyst used a QDX630B Spectral Comparator and Highly Illuminating F OX VM Multimedia Computers and other Scientific Apparatus. Therefore, we urge members of the public to do a simple internet search to research the use of the listed equipment.

Firstly, a Spectral Comparator is not intended to be used for a Facial Image Comparison. Instead, it is used to detect imperfections in documents. It does so by using electromagnetic wavelengths and various filters to differentiate inks and reveal hidden material on documents.

Secondly, the term “Highly Illuminating F OX VM Multimedia Computer” is meaningless without specifying the hardware and software used in the apparent “forensic analysis”.

Thirdly, what other “Scientific Apparatus” did the examiner use? He did not specify it because he has not deployed any specifically designed equipment for a facial image comparison. The whole exercise is arbitrary and a sham. It is designed not to project the truth but to embarrass a candidate that the opposition fears and to deceive members of the public.

Examiner’s expertise:

The examiner, Chief Reginald Udunze, describes himself as a forensic document examiner/handwriting expert. While he may be accomplished in his field of training, there is a vast difference between a forensic document examiner and a facial image comparison expert.

The examination of documents includes detecting alterations and obliterations, analysis of paper, detection and examination of forgery, origin, determining authenticity, and others. Members of the public should note that the examiner, Chief Udunze, does not say that any documents he examined were forged. However, with the greatest respect, Chief Udunze’s qualification as a forensic document examiner does not make him a facial image comparison expert.

Facial image comparison experts compare images of unfamiliar faces (i.e., faces not known to them) and decide whether or not they show the same person. Given the importance of these decisions for national security and criminal investigations, practitioners attend training courses to improve their face identification ability.

Questionable technique:

The “forensic examination” starts on the incorrect premise by presuming that the reference imagery was each taken at the same time, at the same angle and distance and of the same image quality. These factors can significantly affect the comparison.

The examiner did not use original photographs, but images submitted by Oborevwori’s opponents. He did not analyse whether these images were altered in any way.

Additionally, a significant amount of time elapsed between the photographs in question. The first was taken in about 1999. The second photograph was taken 15 years later, in about 2014. Finally, the third photograph was taken in about 2018, 4 years after the second photograph and 19 years after the first photograph.

As individuals grow and age, facial features can change significantly. The examiner does not account for this factor. The following are common features of adult ageing:

• Hair loss and changes in hair pigmentation
• Sagging of soft tissues
• Increased number and depth of facial lines at areas of repeated muscle use and facial fat pad junctures
• Density of fatty tissue under and descent of facial fat pads

A significant amount of time between the images can limit the use of a facial image comparison. The examiner’s current conclusions are unreliable as facial features change naturally with age. Therefore, the examiner should have (but failed to) call for additional imagery within a closer age range.

Also, the first image submitted to the examiner was of significantly low quality, resulting in limited or, at worst, unreliable findings. The examiner did not perform an image quality analysis on any of the submitted photographs to determine:

• Pixel resolution of the face as determined by the overall resolution of the image and the distance of the subject from the camera

• The lighting conditions of the image and the impact this has on the visibility of features and the degree of contrast between different features

• Blur within the image causing a potentially irrecoverable loss of detail

• Geometric distortions such as lens barrelling that may distort the appearance of facial features

• If the angle of the camera is causing occlusion of facial features

• If other factors such as clothing or physical obstruction are occluding facial features

No independent verification of the exercise:

The fallout from the Delta State Governorship primary elections has been the subject of intense media scrutiny. For this reason, the examiner should not be exposed to imagery before conducting their comparison to minimise possible sources of bias, such as confirmation bias. This is why independent verification is key and accords with international best practices.

A second independent examiner should repeat the entire facial image comparison process to verify the result. There should have been a blind verification by the second examiner without knowing the conclusion of the first examiner. This prevents confirmation bias and preserves the integrity of the process.

There was absolutely no verification in this case.

For the avoidance of doubt, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orhowedor Oborevwori has never submitted any false documents as alleged or at all. Furthermore, he has not stolen any person’s identity as alleged or at all. Indeed, neither Evance Ivwurie nor any of his cohorts has brought forward the person they identify as the genuine holder of the identity. The reason for this failure is simple. All the photographs shown in the examination are of Sheriff Francis Orhowedor Oborevwori.

It is curious that a document apparently addressed to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Guzape District FCT Abuja, has found its way to WhatsApp and Facebook, instead of the intended recipient. Equally curious is how a complaint of events allegedly occurring in Delta State has found its way to Guzape District FCT Abuja. Opponents of Sheriff Francis Orhowedor Oborevwori should test their popularity at the polling booth, not on social media pages.

The question is whether the so-called expert was able to bring out any other identity, in the course of his investigation, apart from that of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orowhdor Oborevwori.
The Oborevwori Family of Osubi, Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State is well known, and there is no other member of the Oborevwori Family named Francis. In the circumstances, Evance and his cohorts have the burden of producing the imaginary Francis Oborevwori, whose identity they claimed was stolen by the Hon. Speaker.

It is to be noted that the Police and other security agencies have thoroughly investigated the sundry allegations thrown up by Chief Edevbie’s supporters and confirmed from the relevant Institutions that the certificates in question are not only genuine but were issued to Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orowhedor Oborevwori. In addition, some of the classmates who attended the various Institutions with Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orowhedor Oborevwori have come out to confirm the fact that Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orowhedor Oborevwori attended the said Institutions and obtained those certificates after passing the relevant examinations.

The Supreme Court has correctly found in plethora of authorities that in order to determine the authenticity or genuineness of certificates issued by Institutions, the best and conclusive evidence on this point is a confirmation or denial from those Institutions.

With the confirmations from the various Institutions as to the genuineness and authenticity of those certificates, we urge the general public to disregard those fake forensic reports in circulation, having not emanated from proper Institutions or Authorities.

We wish to recall that Chief David Edevbie secured a judgment from the Federal High Court declaring him the winner of the election and that the said judgment is presently the subject of a pending appeal before the Court of Appeal. Rather than await the decision of the Court of Appeal on the decision he secured from the Federal High Court, Evance Ivwurie and his marauding cohorts would undermine the pending Court process and engage in social media propaganda.

The general public and teaming supporters of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orowhedor Oborevwori should disregard the fake documents in circulation and await the pronouncement of the judiciary, which is the final authority on this issue.

SIGNED :

DENNIS OTU, CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE HONOURABLE SPEAKER OF THE DELTA STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY.

QUACK FORENSIC REPORT IN CIRCULATION CONCERNING RT. HON. OBOREVWORI SHERIFF FRANCIS OROHWEDOR; ANOTHER HATCHET JOB BY POLITICAL DESPERADOS.

Emissaries of confusion who do not wish Delta State and Deltans good are at it again! Despite the fact that there is an appeal pending before Court of Appeal, Abuja, wherein judgement have been reserved by the Appealate Court, political Desperados and hirelings are still in the acts of concocting falsehood and saturating media space, with the intention of deceiving gullible members of the public of what only exist in their imagination!

My attention has been drawn to a fake and quack forensic report credited to one Chief Reginald Udunze DSP (Rtd) concerning Rt. Hon. Oborevwori Sheriff Francis Orohwedor. Unfortunately, some persons who have sold their journalistic souls to mammons are gleefully circulating the putrid report without verifying its contents!

My first reaction is that members of the public should ignore this ignoble and fallacious report; as same is another desperate attempt by disgruntled elements who are looking for every possible means to tarnish the reputation of Rt. Hon. Oborevwori Sheriff Francis Orohwedor. It is important to state from the onset that the said forensic report is not only fake but procured at a cost by willing stooges, paid to carry out this assignment.

The issue relating to the authenticity of the certificates presented by Rt. Hon. Oborevwori Sheriff Francis Orohwedor to INEC and PDP towards the 2023 Governorship Election is presently a subject-matter in a pending appeal before the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division. The appeal was argued on the 19th of August, 2022, and reserved for judgement to a later date. As such, it would be inappropriate to make any comment that may prejudiced the outcome of the appeal.

On the fake forensic report, it is laughable to note the conclusion of the so-called forensic expert that the two pictures analyzed do not belong to the same person; holding that Francis Oborevwori is not the same person as Rt. Hon. Oborevwori Sheriff Francis Orohwedor!
The question discerning members of the public should ask is whether the so-called expert was able to bring out any other identity in the course of his investigation, apart from that of Rt. Hon. Oborevwori Sheriff Francis Orohwedor.

It should be noted that the Police and other security agencies have thoroughly investigated this matter and confirmed from the relevant Institutions that the certificates in question are not only genuine but were issued to Rt. Hon. Oborevwori Sheriff Francis Orohwedor. In addition, some of the classmates who attended the same Institutions with Rt. Hon. Oborevwori Sheriff Francis Orohwedor at different times have come out to confirm the fact that Rt. Hon. Oborevwori Sheriff Francis Orohwedor attended the said Institutions and obtained those certificates after passing the relevant examinations.

The Supreme Court has consistently posited in plethora of authorities that in order to determine the authenticity and/ or genuineness of certificates issued by Institutions, the best and conclusive evidence on this point is a confirmation or denial from those Institutions.

With the confirmations from the various Institutions as to the genuineness and authenticity of those certificates, i urge Deltans and/ or members of the general public to disregard those fake forensic reports in circulation, having not emanated from proper Institutions or Authorities.

The general public and teaming supporters of Rt. Hon. Oborevwori Sheriff Francis Orohwedor should disregard the fake documents in circulation and await the pronouncement of the judiciary which is the final authority on this issue.

© Imonina Sylvester, Esq.,
Writes from Ozoro Kingdom, Delta State.

Oil Theft: Okowa wants oil facilities surveillance contracts review

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta has advocated a review of surveillance contracts on oil facilities to involve host communities in order to check the high rate of oil theft in the country.

He said that reviewing oil surveillance contracts based on performance of the contractors and engagement of host communities would ensure effectiveness in securing the nation's oil and gas assets.

Okowa made the call when he received a Federal Government delegation on anti-Oil theft led by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, on Monday at Government House, Asaba.

He admitted that the challenge of oil-theft was huge, given the level it had assumed, but expressed happiness with the steps being taken by the authorities to curb the menace.

"I am glad that we are discussing this hydra-headed issue which impacts directly on our economy and the environment.

"It impacts on the health of the people and sustainability of the environment and I am glad that we are taking some steps because there are so many issues that led us to this.

"We went through situations where gaps where created between host communities and oil companies, and unfortunately criminality set in.

"It has gone so bad but we are doing our best as a state. I am also glad about this collaboration,’’ he said and stressed the pertinence of a review of surveillance contracts of the oil facilities to ensure community involvement.

The governor pointed out that it was often difficult to secure the facilities, especially when the persons given the contracts did not have adequate information on the environment or not have the buy-in of host communities.

"We know that the impact of the nefarious activities on the health of the people cannot be immediately ascertained, and this collaboration is, therefore, very imperative.

"Any measure that will deliberately reduce the level of oil thefts is definitely worth supporting, and as a state government, we pledge our continued support.

"Why investment of the communities is needed is because there are some parts of the creeks that cannot be accessed by the surveillance contractor. Therefore, surveillance contracts should not be such that communities are not involved.

"The surveillance contracts should be tied to performance such that when there are oil thefts you terminate the contract and it is always good that communities are involved because they know the environment better," he said.

Okowa flayed the oil companies for not keeping faith with their Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs), thereby making the stakeholders to lose confidence in the system.

He explained that when oil companies failed to sign or implement MOUs, ``it becomes very difficult for the state government to mediate when there are issues.

"The security agencies must heighten their operations and they need to be resourced to enable them to also increase their level of surveillance and for this to succeed, there must be sincerity on the part of all stakeholders."

Earlier, Sylva had told the governor that the team was in Asaba to seek the support and buy-in of the state government on measures to be adopted to check oil-theft, saying "as a country we cannot sustain this kind of theft perpetually’’.

He said that oil theft had become a national emergency, especially as the nation had not been able to meet its OPEC production quota.

"Our production has dropped drastically to very unsustainable levels; so, we have decided to take the bull by the horn by putting some structures in place and those structures cannot function effectively without the collaboration of the state government," the minister said.

Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, who is coordinating the security intervention against oil theft, disclosed that in the last five months security agencies had been dealing with issues of illegal refineries and oil bunkering across the Niger Delta.

The CDS also advocated for the engagement of indigenes and host communities in the fight against the criminal activity.

On his part, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Mallam Mele Kyari, said that Nigeria was currently losing about two billion dollars monthly to the activities of oil vandals, with its attendant effect on environmental degradation.

"As a country, we hardly meet our OPEC production quantum of 1.99 million barrels per day with our current production level of 1.4 million barrels per day which is currently being threatened by the activities of these economic saboteurs.

"This has done extensive damage to the environment and losing 1.9 billion dollars every month is colossal, considering the nature of the global economy at the moment,’’ he disclosed.

Kyari reiterated that the team needed the support and buy-in of Delta Government ``because stopping this oil theft requires the concerted efforts of the Federal, State Governments, oil companies and security agencies".

Okowa greets Amori at 70

Delta Governor and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated renowned politician, Chief Ighoyota Amori, on his 70th birth anniversary.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, on Monday in Asaba, the governor noted that Amori, who is the PDP candidate for Delta Central Senatorial District in 2023 elections, was a consummate politician and accomplished leader, who had contributed immensely to the evolution and unity of the party and development of Delta.

He commended the talented politics tactician fondly called "Odidimadi’’ in political circle, for his keen efforts at bridge-building, and described him as "a core politician and patriotic son of Urhoboland" whose passion for uplifting of his people of Delta Central Senatorial District was unparalleled.

The governor recalled Amori’s contributions to the development of the state through his past services as Commissioner for Education; Water Resources; Senior Political Adviser and Senator.

He said: “As a sagacious chieftain of our party, PDP, you have remained ingenious and a great mentor to many members and we appreciate you for your profound and infectious loyalty to the party.

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I heartily rejoice with a great leader, a reputable and reliable political ally, Chief Ighoyota Amori, as he celebrates his 70th birth anniversary.

“As you attain the proverbial three-score years and 10, I am pleased to join your family, political associates and other well-wishers in thanking God for blessing you with strength and wisdom to serve the people of Delta and Nigeria.

“It is our prayer that God will continue to protect you and grant you good health to render more services to Him and our people.”

Delta Government Signs Agreement with Jayta on Agro-Industrial Park

By Gertrude Onyekachukwu-Uteh

As part of its commitment to boost the agricultural value chain, Delta State Government has signed Factory Plots Lease Agreement with Jayta Commodities Nigeria Limited.

The signing of the lease agreement which took place in the Office of the Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) to the Governor was coordinated by the Chairman of the Delta State Agro-Industrial Park (DAIP) Implementation Committee and the Chief Job and Wealth Creation Officer, Prof Eric Eboh.

In his remark, Prof Eboh, reiterated the Statement Government’s commitment to the speedy completion of the project, adding that one of its critical components is the dedicated factory plots to be managed by a Private Agro-Investor, Jayta Commodities Nigeria Limited.

According to him, “Under the Land Lease Agreement, Jayta Commodities Nigeria Limited is allotted factory plot area of 7.2 hectares for the building, establishment and operation of integrated oil palm factory complex comprising three components namely palm oil mill, palm kernel crushing plant and effluent treatment system.”

He explained that the allotment of factory plots to Jayta Commodities Limited was approved by the State Executive Council upon recommendation by the DAIP Project Implementation Committee after rigorous due diligence and scrutiny.

He gave the terms and conditions of operation for the allotment to include payment of the minimum deposit fee as commitment to implementing the agreement, commencement of the construction of the factory complex within 6 months of signing the agreement, completion of the construction of the factory, establishment, and commencement of factory operations within 24 months from signing the agreement.

On his part, the CEA to the Governor, Dr Emu pointed out that DAIP is one of the cardinal projects focused on job creation under public private partnership (PPP) to enhance job and wealth creation in the state, describing it as one of the best models in the country.

“This is done in such a way to make businesses to aggregate themselves in the park. We hope you work and adhere strictly to the timelines and rules as spelt out in the agreement. Looking at your pedigree, we pray that your entry will attract many more businesses,” he stated.

Responding, the Managing Director of Jayta Commodities Nig. Ltd, Mr. Emmanuel Onyeweliakuba, expressed optimism that his company will put in their best to help the State Government realize its aims of setting up the project.

“Agricultural value chain as it affects the DAIP is an untapped window. This is not agriculture at a subsistence level. This is agriculture on a commercial level. We are adding value. As we complete this process on behalf of our management, we are moving to site,” he remarked.

Among those who witnessed the signing of the agreement were the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon Isaiah Bozimor Esq; Representative of the Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr. Ben Agama; Representative of the Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Mr. Emmanuel Ovuzourie; Representative of the Director-General of Delta State Investments Development Agency, Mr. Fred Onojeta; DAIP Project Consultant - Contemporary Design Associates, Arch Kester Ifeadi; Head of Operations of Jayta Commodities Nig. Ltd, Mr. Ken Ushi and the Executive Assistant, Dr. Solomon Okowa.

The highpoints of the event were the signing of the agreement and the exchange of the signed document between the Chairman, DAIP Implementation Committee, Prof Eric Eboh and the MD, Jayta Commodities Nig, Ltd, Mr. Emmanuel Onyeweliakuba.

Pray for unity, recovery of Nigeria, Okowa urges Christians

Gôvernor Ifeanyi Okowa and Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged Christians to pray for "recovery" and unity of the country, and not allow political intrigues to pollute the Church and divide it.

Okowa made the call on Friday when he received leaders of South-South Zone of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) led by Archbishop Israel Ege at Government House, Asaba.

He said that the time had come for Christians to go on their kneels and seek divine direction in the choice of the nation's leaders that would emerge in 2023 rather than succumb to distraction by politicians.

According to him, it is my prayer that the church will continue to lead us in prayers and we need to be a little cautious as a church.

Okowa said "I am saying this because from the conversations I am beginning to see, I want to be sure that the church will not because of politics divide itself.

"The church in itself must be very prayerful that the will of God be done in 2023. We may have our individual preferences but we must be cautious about the unity of the church.

"Although we are traumatised as Christians but we must be careful not to, because of that trauma, take decisions that may not actually be the will of God."

While attributing the successes of his administration to grace of God, the governor pledged to continue to synergize with the church in piloting the affairs of Delta and in his future endeavours.

He advocated for constitutional review to pave the way for devolution of powers, especially giving more powers to states to establish their own police outfit as a way to tackle insecurity, pointing out that the nation was in perilous times.

The governor also stated that it was time for the re-building of the nation by giving all segment of the society a sense of belonging in the scheme of things.

He frowned at the continuous stay of tertiary institutions' students at home due to industrial action by teachers and other workers, emphasizing that drastic steps should be taken to pull the nation out of economic quagmire, worsening insecurity and other heinous crimes taking place in all geopolitical zones of the country.

"There is no doubt that we are very challenged as a nation and it appears that all hope is lost, particularly to the younger ones. But I am one person that believes that all hope is not lost.

"Whatever thing that we have seen in the last seven years, I believe that God has allowed it for a purpose. I believe that there are lessons to be learnt.

"As at today, there is so much insecurity; the economy is going really down beyond what you think and know. Most Nigerians don't even know how huge these challenges are.

"With the things going on now in the Education sector, it's not what anyone would wish for our country. We need to be very prayerful.

"The church must stay very prayerful and it's a time for us as a nation to unite and find peace," he stressed.

Okowa further said that "looking at the constitution of the security agencies, I think that there is a need to expand it. My principal, the Presidential Candidate of the PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has always said that it's not possible to police this nation with the Federal Government police only.

"It is not because of the situation of today but because of the peculiarities of this nation. We need to devolve power and resources to the states to ensure that they can run their own police force.

"If it were so, a lot of things going on at the moment would have been tackled, and so I believe that we need men who have experience to bring about the change that we need in our nation today."

Earlier, the leader of the team, Archbishop Israel Ege, had said that they were in Asaba to thank the Governor for his support for Christians in Delta and the South South and assured him of their support at all times.

He congratulated him on his emergence as vice presidential candidate of the PDP and for his transformation agenda in Delta and charged him to remain a good ambassador of the church in his political career.

The cleric said that Satan was at war with the church through the use of Boko Haram to kidnap and kill Christians and persecution of believers, and called on Christians to redouble prayers for the nation.

Highpoint of the event was special prayer for the Governor, his family, the state and the nation.

D-CARES mitigating economic impact of pandemic, says Okowa

Delta Governor and Vice-Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party PDP, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa on Friday said the state's COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (D-CARES) Programme was to mitigate the adverse economic impact of the pandemic, particularly on the poor and vulnerable.

Okowa disclosed this at the official flag-off of the implementation of activities under Result Areas 1 and 2 of the Delta COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (D-CARES) Programme held at the Events Centre, Asaba.

He said that the D-CARES programme is a World Bank supported intervention with the main objective of expanding access to livelihood support and food security services as well as grants for poor and vulnerable households and firms.

He pledged his administration's commitment towards implementation of all aspects of the D-CARES programme in the state for the overall benefit of the people.

"As we all know, the COVID-19 exerted a huge toll on the economy with the attendant loss of income and means of livelihoods by thousands of people.

"The CARES programme is to help mitigate the adverse economic impact of the pandemic, particularly on the poor and vulnerable.

"On September 28, last year, we gave operational support grants to 1,818 Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) under the Result Area 3 component of the programme.

"This administration is very committed to this programme because it complements and supports our various social intervention efforts."

He said through the initiative, the programme will directly support; 25,269 poor and vulnerable households with social transfers, basic services, and livelihood grants; 13,976 farmers to increase food production and facilitate smooth functioning of the food supply chain, while 2,529 MSEs will be given grants to support post-COVID-19 loans, operational costs and to enhance their IT capabilities.

He advised the programme managers to continue to display high performance and accountability levels required for seamless execution.

"The successful implementation of the programme in the state, especially given the wide scope of the intervention would go a long way in addressing some of the negative economic impacts of the pandemic on our people.

While assuring that the State Government would continue to provide the necessary support and funding to ensure that the programme achieves its stated objectives, "it is indeed my hope that beneficiaries will make good use of the opportunity to grow their businesses, increase their income, and generally improve their living standard," Okowa added.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, Commissioner for Economic Planning, Dr Barry Pere-Gbe, said beneficiaries drawn from poor and vulnerable households were selected on merit and not through political colouration or ethnic cleavages and urged them to maximise the opportunity.

In their goodwill messages, stakeholders of the programme from the world bank and other agencies lauded Governor Okowa for keying into the programme and affirmed that it will help to alleviate poverty.

Some of the beneficiaries including a physically challenged person thanked the Governor for giving them opportunity to benefit from the scheme emphasizing that their economic status has improved.

Highight of the programme was the presentation of cheques and farm implements to some beneficiaries by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

Okowa congratulates Ibori at 64

Governor of Delta and Vice-Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated former Governor of the State, Chief James Ibori, as he clocked 64.

Okowa’s message of felicitation to the ex-governor was contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba.

He lauded Ibori for his pioneering leadership of the state in the democratic dispensation, describing him as an exemplary and influential leader, who left indelible footprints in his service to the state and humanity.

Okowa stated that the former governor whom he served as commissioner for two terms, laid the foundation for a greater and stronger Delta.

According to him, Chief Ibori is our indefatigable leader and pathfinder, who built bridges of unity across the state and country.

"His contributions to the growth and development of Delta through economic and social infrastructure, remains unquantifiable as many of his legacy projects still dot the state's landscape.

"On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I congratulate our dear leader, patriot and statesman, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, on the occasion of his 64th birth anniversary.

“As the leader of modern Delta, I must commend your prescient and insightful leadership that you exhibited throughout your eight years as governor, laying the foundation of the desired Delta, with bridges of unity built among the diverse ethnic groups.

“It is my prayer that God Almighty will grant you long life, good health and wisdom to keep serving our people, Nigerians and God,” the governor stated.

Ukodhiko felicitates Ex-Gov. James Ibori at 64

By Ajiri-Oghene Oreh

House of Representatives Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for Isoko Federal Constituency, Pastor Jonathan Ukodhiko has felicitated with former Delta Governor, Chief James Ibori as he turns 64 years old on Thursday.

Ukodhiko in a statement he issued at his hometown in Otor-Igho, Isoko North Local Government Area, described Ibori as a “pathfinder, renowned public policy consultant, patriot, businessman, and a bridge-building politician of note.“

“Your Excellency, today offers me an opportunity to salute you, for your foresight, vision and patriotic spirit that not just saw to the laying of the building block of the foundation of modern Delta State, but built it into a development hub on which future administrations have had cause to continue to build on.

“As the father of modern Delta, you didn’t only opened our dear state with roads and bridges, you went on to initiate and brought to bear a development revolution that reeved up every sectors of our economy that saw to the launching of Delta into the league of advanced states beyond the shores of Nigeria.”

The former Delta Energy Commissioner, Engr Jonathan Ukodhiko extolled James Ibori for his resilience, courage, patriotism, devotion, saying that, the former Governor “remains an interesting study of visionary and transformational leadership.”

“We at Isoko Federal Constituency, takes cognizance of your efforts and appreciate your pan-Delta and detribalized disposition especially in the areas of infrastructural projects, human capital development, and appointments.

“On behalf of my immediate family, friends, political associates in Isoko Federal Constituency, we warmly felicitated with our dependable leader and statesman, Chief James Onanefe Ibori on the occasion of your 64th birth anniversary today.

“Your Excellency, as you celebrate today, it is our prayer to God Almighty to continually grant you good health, strength and wisdom in your continuous service to our beloved state and Nigeria at large,” Ukodhiko added.