By FIDELIS EGUGBO/DENNIS OTU/VOKE UVWIE/MIKE IKEOGWU

Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, has urged the President-elect, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), to see the whole of Nigeria as his constituency while executing his programmes.
The governor gave the advice yesterday during an interactive session with Journalists in Warri, stated that for the President-elect who emerged on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to succeed, he must not be biased or sectional in running the affairs of the country.
He said, “the elections have come and gone and it is obvious that Delta State is a PDP state. We congratulate the President-elect, Gen. Mohamadu Buhari. We do hope that as he has won, he will see the whole country as his constituency. It will not be in the interest of the country for him to be sectional in his activities”.
The governor added, “it is obvious that South-South states are PDP states and the region cannot be ignored. We wish the president-elect well. We want to also thank our President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan who magnanimously called Gen. Buhari to congratulate him. Some people expected that there will be crisis after the elections but that phone call doused the tension”.
“Back home in Delta, Deltans resoundingly said, the PDP should continue to govern the state, they elected Senator Okowa who has also pledged to carry everybody along and I want to appeal to those who lost to, in the spirit of the wind blowing in the country, congratulate those who won.They should accept defeat because their defeat was very glaring”, the Governor said, adding, “the PDP campaigned more than any other political party in the state”.
Governor Uduaghan, while assuring Deltans that Dr. Okowa will deliver on his electoral promises, disclosed that the Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr. Anthony Obuh is the chairman of the committee preparing his handover note awaiting the May 29 handover date to his successor.
On the series of projects he has commissioned and those earmarked for commissioning, Dr Uduaghan said, “my commissioning of projects is also my own way of saying thank you to Deltans, there are more projects to be commissioned but above all, we are leaving behind a peaceful state”.
He congratulated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting credible and acceptable elections in Delta State, noting that there was improvement on the conduct of the elections during the governorship and House of Assembly elections.
On the future of the PDP as a political party, Governor Uduaghan disclosed that strong efforts were been made to strengthen the party, adding, “the good thing about the PDP is that the states they have, the South-South States, are strong enough to rebuild the party. I assure you that in the next one year, we are going to give the APC a very serious challenge”.

The Secretary to the Delta State Government, SSG, Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay, has described the governorship and State House of Assembly election as peaceful and orderly.
Comrade Macaulay, Stated this shortly after voting at unit 4, Ward one in Owhelogbo Isoko North Local Government Area while fielding questions from newsmen.
He once again decried the shortage of electoral materials ( ballot papers ) for 33, 000 registers voters in the area out of 107, 000 registered voters by the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC), saying that disenfranchising 33, 000 eligible voters was a heavy and devastating blow to the voting strength of the people.
The SSG who expressed displeasure over the sad development said that he lodged a complaint to the Delta State (REC) over the short fall of materials in the presidential and National Assembly's elections which held on March 28, 2015 with a view to correcting the error, lamenting that INEC still brought 74, 000 ballot papers instead of 107, 000 registered voters.
His words "I complained to REC of the short fall of voting materials for 33,000 voters in Isoko North in the presidential and National Assembly's Elections.
The REC promised to correct the short fall in the governs hip and state house of assembly elections. Today the same thing has repeated its self. INEC still brought 74,000 ballot papers instead of 107,000 ballot papers thereby shorting us again of about 48, percent of our voting strength. To me, this is unacceptable. It's a way to discourage us and reduce our voting strength.
He however expressed optimism that PDP will be victorious at the polls not only in Isoko North but also the entire Delta State, pointing out that Delta State is the traditional home of PDP and that PDP is resident in Isoko North.
The SSG, commended the people for their peaceful conduct and for coming out in their large number to exercise their franchise, adding that "we should continue to have faith and confidence in democracy as that is the only way to build our nation"

By FIDELIS EGUGBO

It was spontaneous jubilation by members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by the Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan as Senator Ifeanyi Okowa was declared Governor-elect by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Governor Uduaghan and key members of the party had gathered at the residence of Senator Okowa as early as 7.30 am yesterday glued to the television set awaiting the announcement of the result and at exactly 10.05 am, Governor Uduaghan raised the chorus ‘mma mma’ singing praises to God at the pronouncement of Senator Okowa as the Governor-elect.
Speaking at the occasion, Governor Uduaghan said it was a historic day for Senator Okowa and thanked God that the state witnessed a peaceful electoral process, while praying that the transition process would also be hitch-free.
““It was a total victory for all Deltans”, Governor Uduaghan said.
At the occasion, Senator Okowa, whose message was laced with praises to God, thanked Deltans for his election as Governor, assuring that he will run an all-inclusive government.
“This victory is for all Deltans, it shows that we are united, I congratulate my co-contestants and I want to plead with them to join hands with me to build a greater Delta”, Senator Okowa said, adding, “there are no winners or losers in this election, Delta State is the winner”.
Continuing, he said, “we will accommodate the views of everybody so as to take the state to greater heights, I, therefore, want to call on all Deltans to partner with us in the development of our state as it belongs to all of us.”
The Governor-elect, who won 21 local government areas out of the 25 local government areas of the state, thanked Governor Uduaghan and other party faithful for their contributions to his victory, asserting, “I want to thank the present administration for laying the foundation for a greater Delta State, it is my prayer that we will continue to build on the legacies of the PDP-led administrations and provide efficient services for our people”.
Senator Okowa emphasised that a united Delta State cannot be compromised.
Meanwhile, reactions have continued to trail the emergence of Senator Okowa as the Senator-elect of Delta State.
The member representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ossai Nicholas Ossai said, “this is a good victory for the entire Delta State, I was confident that the PDP will win”, adding, “he is very experienced and he will handle satisfactorily, affairs of technocrats and politicians in the state and he will develop the three Senatorial Districts of the state without bias”.
Secretary to the Delta State Government, Comrade Ovuozorie Macaulay stated, “we know the PDP will always win in Delta State, those who lost in the Presidential elections lost woefully in this state elections but, I can tell you, the Governor-elect will carry everybody along”, while Chief Ken Olise stated, “this is victory for all Deltans, Senator Okowa is not just a grassroots politician but, someone who knows all about the state, he will perform beyond expectations.”
To Navy Commander Idah Azubuike (rtd), “we are all elated because, it is victory for all, the best man for the job won, losers should join hands and work in the interest of Deltans because, government is like an Elephant, no single man can finish the meat”.
Secretary to the Medical Committee of the Senator Okowa campaign organisation, Dr. Nelson Ejakpovi stated that it was an expected victory, “we are confident that Delta State will remain a PDP state, Senator Okowa, is experienced and his years of being in governance is appreciated by all Deltans.”
The Commissioner for Environment in Delta State, Hon. Frank Omare observed, “this victory is fundamental to us as PDP members, the Governor of Delta State, Dr. Uduaghan gave us a direction all the way and we thank God for giving us a Governor who made us to crush opposition in the state, Senator Okowa as Governor will not give us less in governance, he knows what is good for the people.”
The first Majority Leader in Delta State, Hon. Aneke Ifemeni, reiterated, “the victory was not unexpected, this is a PDP state and I expect a government that will not believe in marginalisation or work based on gossips, Senator Okowa is going to be one of the best Governors Delta has ever produced”.

I really commend Uduaghan for this laudable project. It was just like a dream when the project started now it has come to completion and Deltans are happy with the man Uduaghan. Kudos sir.

The man is humble and is accepted his people. You have no evidence to your argument

By Egufe Yafugborhi

WARRI—President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, performed the groundbreaking for the Export Processing Zone, EPZ, better known as the Gas City Project, in Ogidigben and the Deep Sea Port, Gbaramatu, both in Warri South Local Government Area, Delta State.


President Jonathan
The ceremony at the Ugborodo community of Ogidigben witnessed robust participation by the Itsekiri and Gbaramatu leaders following mutual resolution of the tension over host status for the project between the Itsekiri and Ijaw in the area which earlier stalled the event.

President Jonathan, said: “I hereby approve this park as a free trade zone to attract as many investors as possible. I also accord it a full port status with all the priorities it deserves.”

He announced that a steering committee to be headed by Petroleum Resources Minister, Mrs. Diezani Allison-Madueke, would be constituted to regularly brief the National Executive Council on the progress in the execution of the project to ensure that no stone was left unturned in ensuring its completion.

He thanked the Gbaramatu and Itsekiri leaders for ensuring the kick-off of the project, adding: “We will work with you to ensure that this project is completed to benefit not just us, but our children yet unborn.”

To the array of investors gearing to establish stakes in the Gas City Park, the President, said: “You will not be disappointed. Your investment will be protected and will yield the desired results.”

In a valuation of the project, the Petroleum Minister, Allison-Madueke, said: “From the construction phase, over 150,000 direct and indirect jobs will be created by the project and many millions more will be created in the end.”

She said that the project was aimed at establishing Nigeria as the regional hub for gas and fertilizer production in Africa with investors from India, China, Romania and other nations already waiting to establish stakes.

Host, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, thanked President Jonathan for being patient with the host communities while the conflict over the contentious issues raged, saying, “We pledge to protect and provide enabling environment for this project.

“This project is moving forward and will be commissioned. I am a happy man, leaving office in less than three months and seeing to this groundbreaking take place at last.”

Present at the event were the Olu of Warri, the Regent of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Chief Government Ekpemukpolo, a.k.a Tompolo and Pa J.O.S. Ayomike, Chairman, Itsekiri Leaders of Thought, among many others.

Meanwhile, Ijaw leader, Captain Beck Hitler has commended President Jonathan and Tompolo for the successful ground breaking of the EPZ.

Hitler, in a statement, also thanked the Itsekiris and Ijaws of Gbaramatu for embracing peace and for creating the enabling environment which enabled the President to flag off the $16billion Gas Revolution Industrial Park, in Ogidogben and Deep Sea Port, in Gbaratu.

He said that said the President really means well for the people of Delta State and the country, adding that the President has laid good foundation of a project that will create massive employments for Nigerian youths and graduates and the infrastructural and economic development of the host communities.

SPECIAL INVITATION:

please join us as Comr. Hon. Warri Ovoke Friday, say goodbye to bachelorhood.

Date: Saturday 18th April, 2015
Venue: Living Faith Church Ibusa Road Asaba.
Time: 10am

Reception follows immediately at Benizia Hotels, Kingsley Emu Street, Off DBS Road, Asaba.

THIS MARRIAGE MATA NA OUR MATA: NA GOD WILL OOO

By Festus Ahon

ASABA—Delta State Commissioner for Special Duties in charge of Ughelli/Asaba Road dualisation, Mr David Anuku, yesterday, said that the ‘B’ section of the road project was 98 percent complete.

Anuku, when he led other top government officials, including his Lands, Survey and Urban Development counterpart, Mr Misan Ukubeyinje, said the state governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, will commission Sector ‘B’ of the project before May 29.

Noting that about 70 per cent of sector ‘A’ had also been completed, he said the state government was committed to the completion of the road, which, according to him, would ease the transportation of goods and services in the state.

He said that finishing touches were being put to Sector ‘B’ of the road project which spans through Arhade, Kwale to Osissa in Isoko North, Ndokwa East and Ndokwa West Local Government Areas respectively. Anuku commended Uduaghan for embarking on the project.

Hahahahahahaha. Dem don start again abi. Make una lev our governor alone make em focus on eh finishing strong business ooo.

DELTA State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has said negative attitude of Nigerians towards the forthcoming general elections was militating against Nigeria's economic growth.

Uduaghan who stated this in Warri on Tuesday at a town hall meeting with professional groups and civil society organizations based in Delta South and Central Senatorial districts of the State, noted that the attitude of Nigerians was sending wrong signals to investors.

This, he argued was impacting negatively on the economy with investors holding back their funds thereby retarding the country's economic growth.

In particular, he said that the value of the dollar rose far above the naira because Nigerians were giving out the impression that there will be violence after the general elections which had sent the wrong signals to the international community especially, businessmen.

"There is this erroneous impression that we are giving to the international investors that there will be violence after the elections and it has affected the inflow of money from businessmen," he said, adding, "We must work very hard to ensure that our elections are violent-free, whoever loses should wait for another election. Whichever way the election goes, we must maintain the peace and ensure that the naira appreciates."

Also, the Governor took a swipe at those inciting Nigerians based on different divides as a result of the forthcoming elections, observing that effects of inciting the people could be disastrous even to those engaging in inciting others.

He said that President Goodluck Jonathan deserves re-election because of the achievements he has recorded for Nigerians within the past four years.

According to him, President Jonathan has done a lot for Nigerians and would do more for Nigerians and the country in the interest of the peace and unity of the nation, adding: "The naira will get a boost after the elections".

A former Special Adviser to President Jonathan on Performance Monitoring and Evaluation, Prof. Sylvester Monye delivered a lecture on 'Governing Under Siege: An Assessment Of The President Goodluck Jonathan Administration 2011-2015' at the Town hall meeting

Monye decried hate campaigns and campaigns based on falsehood stressing that Mr. President has worked more than his predecessors by delivering on electoral promises rather than engaging in propaganda.

He expressed confidence that based on the facts presented which shows a progressive country, the professionals and members of the civil society groups "are not voting for President Jonathan based on where he is from but, because of his performance so far."

By FIDELIS EGUGBO

Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has charged politicians to engage in issue-based campaigns that will make post-elections Nigeria a better country.
Governor Uduaghan gave the advise yesterday while speaking at a town hall meeting with professional groups and civil society organisations in Delta North Senatorial district in Asaba where the Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on Performance Monitoring and Evaluation, Prof. Sylvester Monye delivered a lecture on the topic, ‘Governing Under Siege: An Assessment of the performance of President Goodluck Jonathan Administration (2011-2015).’
The Governor, who disclosed that since his years of being involved in politics, he had not experienced the type of politics of distortion of facts and mudslinging which is going on in the country, stated that candidates for electoral offices should engage in issue-based campaigns.
According to him, “we should resolve to remain focused and discuss issues because if we discuss issues, it will make our President a better President when he wins, it will make Senator Ifeanyi Okowa a better governor than me when he wins”, asserting, “in Delta State, we try as much as possible not to use foul languages”.
He added, “I want to plead that we should remain focused on what we can do for our people”.
The Governor stated that the town hall meeting with professionals and civil society organisations was important for facts about the achievements of President Jonathan’s administration to be presented to them, noting that as leaders of trade unions and organisations, they should be able to keep their members better informed.
Gubernatorial flagbearer of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa reiterated that President Jonathan deserves the votes of Nigerians as he has opened up democratic space by ensuring freedom of speech and association and has delivered on many sectors of the economy while reducing corruption.
“The President is a democrat and a gentleman, it takes a democrat to respect institutions of democracy, he has continued to respect freedom of speech and associations unlike past administrations”, he said, adding, “we need to re-elect him to continue with his good works”.
Prof Monye, in his lecture, presented facts to prove that President Jonathan has performed better than his predecessors in office.
He buttressed the essence of the town hall meeting saying, “we have left objectivity and issues in campaigning, we have elevated subjectivity and outright falsehood as basis of campaign, it is now evident that the more proficient you are as a propagandist, the more successful you are as a campaigner, and this is wrong”.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Legal Matters, Barr. Andrew Oduma listed the professional groups in attendance to include, the Nigerian Bar Association, Nigerian Medical Association, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Conference of Registered Engineers of Nigeria, Nigeria Society of Engineers, Nigeria Union of Teachers, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Association of Secondary School Teachers, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Trade Union Congress, Nigeria Institute of Management, NIgeria Institute of Architects, Association of Professional Bodies, Nigeria Institute of Surveyors, among others.
Meanwhile, Governor Uduaghan has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that no Nigerian was disenfranchised in the forthcoming elections.
Governor Uduaghan, who stated this when the PDP National Vice Chairman, South South zone, Dr. Caro Ojugboh and the zonal executive members visited him in Asaba yesterday, said that there were still a lot of Nigerians with valid temporary voters’ cards (TVC) who have not been able to collect their permanent voters’ cards (PVC).
“There are still many citizens of the state who have not been able to collect their PVCs, they have gone to INEC offices, filled forms, sent SMS but INEC has not brought the cards from Abuja. Nobody should be disenfranchised from taking part in the elections due to no fault of theirs”, he stated adding: “INEC should do something about it so that we do not have issues that will affect the elections”.
Governor Uduaghan called for unity and cohesion among the party members especially at the unit level to ensure massive victory for the party in all elections.
While assuring the zonal executive members of victory for the party in all elections in the state, the Governor disclosed that the State Government and state party executives have embarked on massive grassroots mobilisation and sensitisation campaigns at the ward and local government levels.
Earlier, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh had said that they were in the state to meet with the state executive members and party faithful on the need to ensure maximum support for the party in the forthcoming elections.
He charged members of the state and zonal executives who attended the party’s train-the trainers’ workshop in Abuja recently to embark on the training of party agents for the elections to ensure that the agents carry out their functions effectively.

By FIDELIS EGUGBO

WHEN the idea of finishing strong came up, many Deltans had the confidence that naturally, having piloted the affairs of Delta State for more than seven years, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan would be celebrated as he is leaving office.
Celebrating Dr. Uduaghan, the Governor of Delta State, however, is a new development in Nigeria where political office holders are celebrated while still in office. Nigeria is a country where those who are holding political offices are most times, condemned for actions they failed to take rather than praised for their achievements when they are still in office while their achievements are celebrated after their exit from government.
There is an addition to the finishing strong mantra, landing well! This simply means one can finish strong without finishing well. Those in sports and sports lovers would be more abreast with the need to finish well.
That Governor Uduaghan is finishing strong and landing well is no longer in doubt. For the past few weeks, he has embarked on the commissioning of projects in different parts of the state. Against the expectations of many people, drums were rolled out few days ago for the commissioning of sixty four roads at a stretch in the state capital, Asaba.
Governor Uduaghan’s administration encountered challenges no other governor had faced in Nigeria which obviously, must have slowed down the tempo of what he had for the people. From 2007 when he emerged, uncertainty trailed his government as some Deltans who believed they could occupy the governorship seat through the court of law rather than through the ballot box battled him through different stages of legal actions. We cannot forget in haste that Governor Uduaghan at a stage was sacked by the court and had to face a re-run election but today, we are celebrating democracy, we are celebrating infrastructure development, we are celebrating Dr. Emnanuel Eweta Uduaghan as the Governor of Delta State.
With the commissioning of projects, has he lost steam? The answer is of course, no. Despite the fact that he will leave office on May 29, Governor Uduaghan has increased the pace in on-going projects with an assurance that such projects like, the DLA road, the flyover projects in Asaba and Effurun would be completed and commissioned before he leaves office. It is worthy to note that more projects have also, been awarded and there is confidence that such projects especially, the Asaba/Okpanam road project and the ultra-modern hospital, Asaba, will be completed for the benefits of humanity.
Yes! As Nigerians, the jubilation that the commissioning of the roads, physical infrastructure is attracting, is a strong pointer to the fact that we celebrate what we see more than anything else. But, for sure, where can one commission peaceful co-existence or the brotherly love that the Dr. Uduaghan’s administration has entrenched among Deltans? Where can one commission the numerous Deltans that Governor Uduaghan’s administration has moved from a state of joblessness to become employers of labour through different empowerment programmes? Where can one commission so many lives that have been saved through the free maternal and child care programme? Among numerous intangible programmes that have uplifted the standard of living of the people.
One great asset of Governor Uduaghan is that he has a listening ear, and he believes strongly too, in a peaceful and united Delta State. This is electioneering period and Delta is still calm, there is no burning of billboards or removal of opponents’ posters. There is freedom for the candidates, no threat of any kind and the people are assessing them and carrying out debates on who will best represent them. That is democracy in action which Dr. Uduaghan made possible through his actions and strong warning that no position is worth a human life.
By His grace, winners and losers in the elections will emerge between now and next month and Delta State will remain peaceful awaiting May 29 that Governor Uduaghan will hand over to his successor.
With the current situation of things in Delta State, Dr. Uduaghan can be described as one lucky Nigerian who is being celebrated while still in office and of course, history will be fair to him as an office holder who finished strong and landed well.

By Dele Sobowale

“This is what the truth is. Going behind what you hear first. Asking a hundred questions until you make up your own mind on the basis of real evidence.” James A Michener in Hawai.

James Michener was for years an editor before he became a writer of historical novels; he wrote over 20 books and he is one of my mentors – even in death. When in 1994, I first started writing general commentary, the first thing was to find out the cardinal principle of journalism and to apply it at all times to all situations and issues.

It still boils down to finding the facts and not being swayed by popular opinions. I am still not a journalist, and will never be, but the issue of Asaba Airport, which to me is still basically an economic matter has driven me to the farthest length in recent times in getting to the bottom of a story.

I thank the private donors who are only interested in the investment opportunities the airport will provide. May be, one day, I will be able to do the same for Uyo and Gombe Airports. These are “gold mines” waiting to be mined.

In part two of this series, two text messages received concerning Asaba Airport were published. The first claimed that N40 billion had been spent on the project; the second asked me to go and find out things for myself. That challenge by the second reader was accepted on this page and I went out in search of evidence.

First , I virtually “gate-crashed” into a retreat organized by the Delta State Government, in Warri, for its Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries and Special Advisers. I requested for and got and appointment to discuss with anybody and everybody who could provide information about the airport.

The Governor granted the request on a Saturday and I was scheduled to arrive Asaba the following Thursday for the official appointment.

Unknown to the Governor, I dashed to Lagos Sunday and returned to Asaba on Monday with a retired Airforce pilot friend in tow; he knows a lot about airports having flown into over 300 worldwide. We wanted to conduct our own investigation before the officials took over.

We returned to Lagos on Wednesday with independent information; most of which will be shared with our readers. The only parts left out will be those pertaining to security – for obvious reasons. There is probably no media practitioner in Nigeria today who knows more about the airport than me.

I even now know a few things the Governor does not know; because the establishment of an international airport induces more economic, social, cultural, environmental and political changes than a feasibility study can capture.

At this point let me provide the answer to the questions asked about feasibility study and increased cost. Yes there was a feasibility study when the airport was first conceived as a purely a domestic airport. It was amended when it was decided to scale it up to an international airport.

Surely, everybody can understand that when you alter an airport designed to accommodate small aircraft to one which can service the biggest in the world, 747s and Airbuses, the cost of construction must go up. So there was no “economic terrorism” involved –only understandable economics of scale and scope.

However, before going into the “heart of the matter”, let me make a few necessary observations which will assist non-Deltans, as well as Deltans themselves, to understand the state a little bit better. In summary, ethnicity and politics are combining to make cooperation for overall development of the state virtually impossible.

The “Pull-Him-Down, PHD” syndrome is probably highest in Delta State than in most states of Nigeria. Thus, assessment of every project, or initiative of government, is filtered through those prisms first making objective appraisals almost impossible.

Garibaldi, 1807-1882, the Father of modern Italy was once quoted saying that, “we have created Italy, now we must create Italians”. President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, IBB, when creating Delta state should also have announced that “we have created Delta State, now we have to create Deltans”.

Few states in Nigeria emulate the Tower of Babel more than those ethnic groups, mainly, Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko, Igbo and Ika, in Delta State. Each of them holds primary allegiance to their ethnic group first and to Delta State next.

Thus when Babangida’s government selected Asaba as the state capital, a choice allegedly influenced by his wife Maryam, the couple incurred the everlasting enmity of the “real Deltans” – defined as Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw and Isoko.

Making matters worse was the fact that oil production in the state takes place mainly in the “real Delta”. As far as they are concerned, their money is being used to develop a part of Delta which really doesn’t belong there. And for years, “real Deltans”, operating under the belief that the capital will soon be moved to the “real Delta”, refused to move permanently to Asaba.

Years later, the feelings are still strong in many quarters that any majour expenditure by Delta State government is a waste of funds. So, irrespective of its merits, the project must be denounced. The Asaba International, yes, it is going to be an International Airport in every sense of the word, is only the latest, but by no means the last project situated in Asaba, which will be subjected to deliberate misinformation and mischief instead of objective analysis.

I write as someone who first stepped on Delta soil in 1975 and has conducted corporate and private (weddings, burials, foundation laying ceremonies etc) in virtually all corners of Delta) on at least 300 occasions since then. Only a non-Deltan, ready to go out and find out the truth can objectively comment of Delta; the Deltans themselves are too emotionally involved to be impartial.

First of all, it needs to be repeated that the Asaba Airport represents for me a new and viable economic resource to which foreign and domestic investments should be attracted. My first three trips to Asaba, two by air and one by road, were privately funded.

There will be more such trips, God spearing my life, because already, over fifty feasible investment projects have been identified on account of the airport. In fact, the investments the airport will attract will dwarf the cost of construction by almost a factor of one to hundred or more.

The real cost of the project will soon be addressed, because it was a promise given to investigate and report back to our readers. That has been done and permit me to jump the gun by stating categorically, that the total contract cost is under N30 billion – for an international airport; when a runway in Abuja was awarded for N69 billion.

Yet, Nigerians have been fed with figures ranging from N40 billion to N70 billion. Incidentally, none of those peddling those outrageous figures had ever interviewed the Governor of Delta State. I did. And, he told me authoritatively that only N27 billion had been spent; and barring unforeseen problems, the total cost will be less than N30 billion. I challenge anybody to fault that – and provide evidence.

BY ANDREW IKEHI

THE Minister, National Planning Commission, Ambassador Abubakar Suleiman has lauded the partnership deal between the Delta State Government,
the World Bank and the European
Union (EU) under the State Employment and Expenditure for Results (SEEFOR) project, saying that the partnership is in tandem with the transformation agenda of the Federal Government.
The Minister who stated this yesterday while inspecting some of the projects already executed in the state through the SEEFOR project, particularly commended the Delta State Government for taking the lead in the implementation of the tenets of the SEEFOR project.
He particularly held that sustenance of the partnership and its extension to other states of the Federation would in no small measure
help in curtailing insurgency, criminality, and youth restiveness as well as assisting in poverty reduction and job creation.
Alhaji Suleiman who inspected some road projects, skill acquisition centres and road maintenance Projects of the SEEFOR in the state called on other states in the country to take a cue from the Delta State government, saying; “If other states should do what the Delta State is doing, then, such intervention projects/funds from the World Bank and other donor agents will continue”.
He said further, “From what I have seen so far in Delta State, it is an indication that SEEFOR is working and that the World Bank is complementing government efforts. Also, I make bold to say that the Delta State government is indeed complementing what the World Bank is doing”.
“SEEFOR project in Delta State, from what we have seen so far, it is not only creating job, but helping us (The Federal Government) to reduce poverty and unemployment as well as assisting government both at the state and Federal level in addressing criminality, insurgency, youth restiveness
and Militancy”.
“By and large, the partnership of the State Government with the World Bank and the various stakeholders is working in Delta State and I want to say categorically that Delta SEEFOR is working; they are doing what they are expected to do”. I am reliably informed that that out of the four states where SEEFOR currently exists, it is only Delta State that has succeeded in doing their own intervention and partnership in complementing the SEEFOR project up to the tune of engaging thousands of youths who were employed in the project” Suleiman has said.
Leading the Minister during the Inspection visit, the Delta State Project Coordinator of the SEEFOR project, Mr. Benson Ojoko said that the project since its commencement about three years ago, has lived up to its biddings, particularly in its job creation and poverty alleviation.

By John Egbokhan

After failing to win any type of medal at the last African Under-17 Championships in Niger, Golden Eaglets Coach, Emmanuel Amuneke plans to start building afresh for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, with fresh trials to unearth talented players tomorrow in Delta State.

Amuneke, whose side merely qualified for the World Cup holding later in the year in Chile, has turned to the products of the Delta State football development initiative, set up by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan to unearth and groom the next set of football talents in the state.

Facing a torrent of criticisms from fans, who are still livid with his coaching style in Niger, Amuneke yesterday said that he was aware of the problems and intends to stop the slide, by rejigging the team, with these three days trials ending this Friday in Ugwashiukwu, the hometown of former Super Eagles captain, Austin Okocha, who is now the Chairman of the Delta State Football Association.

Coach of the Governor’s Cup programme in Delta State, Sunday Lucky, who once played for Julius Berger said last night that he was thrilled at the prospects of having some of his products tested for trials by Amuneke for possible considerations for integration into the Golden Eaglets squad.

“I am very happy that we will be hosting Amuneke in Ugwashiukwu and feel confident that some of our players have the potentials to make the team”, said Lucky.

It is recalled that on the inauguration of the Governor’s Cup, Governor Uduaghan, said any player good enough and desirous to pursue a career in football will be encouraged all the way and it appears that Amuneke’s mission to Delta State may well be the beginning of a journey to football stardom for the players who will eventually make the grade to play for Golden Eaglets.

By Vincent Anikwushe

There were everywhere singing, drumming and dancing. They accompanied
the Delta State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) campaign train across
the State. They made bold statements with their banners and T-Shirts
at the various venues of the PDP campaign rally in the 25 Local
Government Areas of Delta State.

From Oghara to Koko, from Ogbe-Ijoh to Aboh, from Agbor to Bomadi,
from Ozoro to Kiagbodo, from Ogwashi-Uku to Otu-jeremi, from Sapele to
Issele-Uku, from Akwukwu-Igbo to Orerokpe, from Warri to Asaba, from
Oleh to Uvrie, these political pressure groups from Isoko Nation did
not leave any one in doubt of their resolve, determination and
commitment to the victory of PDP in the state as well as President
Goodluck Jonathan.
In deed they stole the show at Ozoro and Oleh (their home base) when
the campaign train stormed the two ancient towns in Isoko land.

Their banners with the pictures of Senator Okowa and other PDP
candidates with various inscriptions in support of Senator Ifeanyi
Okowa, the Delta State PDP governorship flag bearer and other PDP
candidates, particularly from Isoko nation were conspicuous.

Their T-Shirts which were in different colours and sizes with face
caps to match and worn by over 5,000 members of the groups were a
delight to behold.

These political pressure groups that show cased their support and
solidarity for PDP and its candidates during the campaign are Macaulay
Political Vanguard (MPV), Isoko Advancement Network (IAN), Isoko
Grassroots Movement (IGM) and Isoko Patriot Front (IPF).

The uncommon commitment of these groups is not unconnected to the
axiom that anything worth doing is worth doing well and also an
attestation to quality, purposeful and people-oriented political
leadership in Isoko nation headed by Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay who
is the Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG) and the leader of
Isoko Political Class.

Comrade Macaulay’s sterling leadership qualities over the years speak
volumes. He shone like a star in his days as a young Information
Officer in the Ministry of Information in Benin-City, Edo State. He
was also spectacular as a staff of Bendel Broadcasting Service,
Benin-City. As the pioneer Chairman of the Nigerian Union of
Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, he wrote his name in gold and
his foot prints will surely remain indelible in the sands of time. As
the Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Delta State
Chapter, his leadership and administrative acumen also manifested
which culminated in the building of the edifice named Labour House in
Asaba, the Delta State Capital.

The Owhelogbo in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State born
leader, administrator per excellence cum politician also exhibited his
intelligence, human relations and mastery in conflict resolution in
bringing lasting peace to warring ethnic groups in Delta State during
the Warri crisis as a Commissioner for Inter-Ethnic Relations and
Conflict Resolution.

As the present Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Comrade
Ovuozourie Macaulay, has shown the stuff he is made of as he has been
piloting the affairs of the Engine Room of Government with dedication
and vigour to the delight of the state governor and for the benefit of
humanity and to the glory of God.

He is not only an achiever who knows his onions but also a great
philanthropist who has positively impacted on the lives of so many
people within and outside Delta State over the years. His rise to
stardom is by a dint of hard work and an eloquent testimony to the
saying that “Heights great men reached and kept were not attained by
sudden flight, but they, while their contemporaries slept, were
toiling through the nights”.

It is also a fact that Comrade Macaulay’s Olympian height buttresses
an adage that “A chick that will grow into a cock can be spotted the
very day it hatches”.

As a leader, Comrade Macaulay has many followers unlike an adage which
says “that a person who claims to be a leader without followers is
only taking a walk”

The SSG, no doubt, has performed creditable in all positions of
authority he has held thus laying credence to the fact that he has
washed his hands clean and now eating with the kings and elders.

In an interview, a member of Macaulay Political Vanguard who preferred
anonymity disclosed that Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay, whom he
described as great leader, is the brain behind the groups. He
commended other Isoko sons for their roles in sustaining the groups,
adding that the SSG has been their pillar.

He pledged their unalloyed loyalty to SSG, saying that they were his
foot soldiers and as such, were irrevocably committed to his ideals.

“He is our mentor. We believe in him because he is a leader that cares
for everybody. We wish him higher positions in his political careers”

He commended his colleagues and members of other political pressure
groups in Isoko land for coming out en masse during the PDP campaign
rally across the state and for their support for Senator Ifeanyi Okowa
and other PDP candidate in the state, expressing optimism that Senator
Okowa and other PDP flag bearers would emerge victorious in the
forthcoming general elections.

Also in an interview during the PDP campaign rally at Oleh,
Comrade Macaulay hailed Macaulay Political Vanguard and other pressure
groups in Isoko land for their mobilization, sensitization and support
for PDP, disclosing that some of the groups had been in existence
since 1999.

“These groups have seen so many governors. They are the brain behind
most of the votes you get in Isoko land. The whole essence is to give
support to the PDP which is the ruling party and the candidates of PDP
so that they can win”, he affirmed.

“We supported former Governor James Ibori in 2003; we supported
Governor Emmanuel Uduahan in 2007 and 2011 and here again we are
supporting Senator Ifeanyi Okowa”.

He maintained that “we have been supporting all other candidates of
PDP and that is why you can see that especially in Isoko North no any
other party can win and if my structure alone goes to vote, the
candidate has won”.

He commended the people of Isoko North and Isoko South Local
Government Areas for their massive turnout at the PDP governorship
campaign rally at Ozoro and Oleh.

The SSG said that the massive turnout of the good people of Isoko
nation was an affirmation that PDP is deep rooted in Isoko land as
well as their conviction that those who had been managing their
affairs in the PDP government since 1999 had been able to impact
positively on their lives.

According to him, “What the people are demonstrating is an
appreciation of what we have done for them and it is only when they
vote PDP that we can do more for them because that is the only way
more people can have more appointments, more dividends of democracy
and be able to advance development and better their lives”.

While urging the people to sustain their support and vote for PDP in
rescheduled general elections for March 28 and April 11, 2015, the SSG
reminded Deltans, particularly eligible voters in Isoko Nation to
collect their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) to enable them exercise
their franchise.

By Emma Amaize

ASABA—Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, yesterday, explained why his administration built the International Airport, ultra-modern Government House and other development projects in Asaba, the state capital.

Speaking at the flag-off of 64 township roads in Asaba, he said: “Asaba is the capital of Delta State and it is the mirror with which many people look at us and they can go away with a wrong impression if they see the town as undeveloped.”

He said some top persons in the state questioned him on why he was paying more attention to the growth of Asaba, but he told them he had no regrets for his action because God has made Asaba the capital of the state and it must be developed to the glory of all Deltans.

His words: “God has given us a capital that is blessed. Asaba is blessed, we have to live in unity. Last weekend, the President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, came and when people saw the presidential lodge where he stayed, they were impressed and said it is one of the best in the country.”

The governor said that contracts were awarded for over156 roads in Asaba, out of which 64 had been completed and 75 were at various stages of completion.

He assured that more would be completed and commissioned before he leaves office.

Uduaghan assured that the two flyover projects in Warri and Asaba will be completed.

He said one of the challenges facing Asaba was flooding, caused by indiscriminate building of houses which block water channels, especially on Asaba-Okpanam Road.

According to him, “We have started addressing the problem and wherever we stop, the incoming government will start from there.”

Do you call DBS, junior staff quarter's, Federal college, St. Bridged's, High court, Ezenehe road among others patched roads. Please appreciate the man for doing this. Kudos to our governor.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.

Yes Uduaghan really transformed schools in Delta State. Kudos to Our amiable Governor Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON. We appreciate your effort in our Educational system.

Kudos to the Delta State Government.

BY LUCKY OYIBO

THE Delta State Bursary/Scholarship Board has proposed the sum of N2.4 billion for the state government’s Students’ Special Assistance Scheme, SSAS, for 2015 fiscal year.
The Executive Secretary of the Board, Mr. Peter Amromanoh, who announced this when he appeared before the Hon Daniel Mayuku led Committee on Finance and Appropriation of the Delta State House of Assembly to defend the 2015 budget estimates of the board, said the amount included part of the 2014 commitments of the board to the SSA Scheme.
Amromanoh said the board in 2014 had a total commitment of 40,624 beneficiaries of the scheme, hence the board request for the sum of N986 million to successfully pay the would-be beneficiaries.
The Commissioner for Higher Education, Mr. Charles Emetulu, led Mr. Amromanoh and others to the budget defense where he said that in 2015, the board is proposing the sum of N1.2 billion for 55,000 would-be beneficiaries, bringing the total amount to N2.2 billion.
He said it is the will of the board to obtain releases to carter for the bursary of the 2013, 2014 and 2015 Law School students, saying that the board has over 864 outstanding beneficiaries for the past three years.
For the internal scholarship scheme, the Executive Secretary disclosed that the board was able to pay 50 per cent of the beneficiaries with 400 undergraduates, 100 Masters and 40 PHD as beneficiaries for 2010 and 2011.
He stated that the board has proposed the sum of N274 million to carter for the 2015 awardees and also for the existing commitment of N74 million for the 2011 beneficiaries.
Mr. Amromanoh said N388 million has been proposed for 2015 fiscal year for the external scholarship scheme to adequately provide for the existing 43 beneficiaries of the scheme abroad and possibly award new beneficiaries in 2015.
The executive secretary presented the proposed budget estimates of the board in the areas of scholarship scheme of children of deceased civil servants, physically challenged, first Class honours to PHD, Aviation Scholarship scheme, Maritime Scholarship scheme among others.
The Chairman of the Committee, Hon Daniel Mayuku and a member of the committee, Hon Tim Owhefere, charged the board to be above board and ensure good spread of all the schemes.

THE Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Ewetan Uduaghan has commended the Nigerian Army for their active effort in stabilising security in the country.
Dr. Uduaghan gave this commendation while addressing the new Commanding Officer, 2nd Mechanised Division of The Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Major Gen. Sanusi Muazu and his men who paid him a courtesy call at the Governor’s office Annex, Warri.
He congratulated the new Commanding Officer, as well as appealed to him and his men to continue to be active in the discharge of their duties, adding that though there are no longer issues of crisis in the state, there are still lots of security issues around to deal with, especially in this period of election.
Dr. Uduaghan also appreciated the laudable effort of the Army in fighting Boko-Haram insurgency in the country, saying that the results recorded so far in the North East within two weeks of the postponement of the elections has been successful and quite commendable.
The Commanding Officer, Major Gen. Sanusi Muazu in his response, expressed his gratitude to the Governor for his quick response in honouring their request to meet with him, adding that they will continue to do the good work in maintaining the relationship between the Nigerian Army and the state.
He thanked him for all the support his troupe have being enjoying from the State Government, even as he assured him that they will provide excellent security arrangement as well as enabling environment before, during and after the elections, maintaining that the 2007 Pre and Post-election violence experienced in the country will not happen this time around.
Major Gen. Sanusi Muazu, also commended the Governor for his vision of “Delta Beyond Oil”, saying that it is a good initiative which every responsible state should key into, adding that it is very important for us to look beyond what we have presently and find a way of protecting our future.

By Onoja Innocent

BOMADI—Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State has sent a peace delegation to Ezebiri community in Bomadi Local Government Area of the state, whose son was killed by suspected youths of Ufrukama, a neighbouring community in Ughelli South Local Government Area, over bailing of a fish pond.

The high-powered peace delegation which comprised the Chairman of Bomadi council, Chief Oluwole Karetimi and his team, his Ughelli counterpart, Paul Etega and his team, the Nigeria Police force led by Area Commander, Mr Pedro, the Joint Task Force, JTF, in both councils led by their commanders, Capt. Robert (Bomadi) and Lt. Jatau (Ughelli South) as well as representatives of the media, arrived Ezebiri at 1.30p.m, and were led into the community hall where members of the community were gathered to hear from the government.

Sympathizing with the community for the loss, Chief Karetimi commended the people of Ezebiri for their maturity in handling the issue, as he appealed to them to keep it up to enable government and the security agencies see the case to its logistic conclusion.

His Ughelli South counterpart, Etega, appealed for calm and urged the people to continue to maintain their peaceful disposition since it involves a case between sister communities that had already lived over the years together through inter-ethnic marriage.

In their response, the community elders and leaders thanked government for the concern and assured that they will continue to prevail on their young men to calm down as they await the conclusion of the case.

BY FIDELIS EGUGBO

THAT the Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, has successfully piloted the affairs of Delta State for more than seven years is obvious and the people of the state have continued to celebrate him. But the governor believes that his political party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), should continue to emerge victorious in all the elections in the state.
The governor, who is currently on tour of the state commissioning projects, is preaching continuity for the PDP through the election of its candidates from President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to Senator Ifeanyi Okowa as the governor to the Senators, House of Representatives and House of Assembly candidates of the party.
At all the communities the governor visited, the people thanked him for touching their lives positively through numerous projects and programmes and promised to cast their votes for candidates of the PDP in the elections. While they are thanking him for the massive road projects that cuts across different communities of the state, beneficiaries of the free maternal and free child care programme for children who are six years and below, beneficiaries of schorlaship schemes, those who have become employers of labour due to the micro-credit programme of the Uduaghan’s administration, among others, were beaming with satisfactory smiles as they had the opportunity to meet with the governor.
From Mbiri in Ika North-East Local Government Area of the state where the governor commissioned a 7.8 kilometre Umunede-Mbiri Road to Aradhe, Isoko North Local Government Area where he commissioned the Aradhe/Ushie/Ashaka road to Aboh where he commissioned a 14.7 kilometre Ashaka-Aboh road and Uvwie Local Government Area of the state where he commissioned the Refinery road, the joy of the people knew no bounds as they sang the praises of Governor Uduaghan and the people-oriented projects of the PDP-led governments in Nigeria.
The Obi of Mbiri, HRM (Dr.) Alekwe II, was full of praises for Dr. Uduaghan describing him as someone who keeps promises and also, listens to the cry of the down-trodden in the society. Governor Uduaghan at that ceremony, promised to tar the road to the Palace and also tar the road to the Mbiri Farm Settlement, disclosing that the road to the farm settlement was very important as it would facilitate the timely movement of farm produce to the city.
Despite all that he has done, like Oliver Twist, the people still requested for more and at the commissioning of Aradhe/Ushie/Ashaka road, the governor, who personally thanked a PDP chieftain in the area, Chief Godswill Obielum for attracting development to his people, assured the people of Aradhe that the school project in their community would be completed before the end of his tenure.
At Aboh, where traditional dance groups were around to receive him, the governor informed the people that work on the project site for the Delta State Polytechnic, Aboh, was slow because of the difficult terrain the people gave government as site for the Polytechnic stating that the sand-filling of the project site has made government to consider reviewing the contract for the job.
It was a spectacular scene at the commissioning of the Refinery road, Effurun as it was done at night with the road well lit and the weather very friendly.
Governor Uduaghan, beaming with satisfaction, expressed joy that his administration has greatly transformed the oil city of Warri, especially, Uvwie Local Government Area and those who spoke during the exercise assured the governor that every vote that will come out from the area would be for the PDP.
While the governor was confident of the people’s votes for the PDP in the forthcoming elections, during the commissioning of a 14.4 km Ughelli/Ekiugbo road in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state which also has street lights, the governor appealed to the people to make a difference by voting for Senator Ifeanyi Okowa to emerge as governor in the elections observing that they people did not vote for him in the previous elections.
It was interesting to note that despite the fact that the people did not vote for the governor in the previous elections, Ughelli benefitted immensely from the administration of Dr. Uduaghan with assurance that more projects in the area, especially, the construction of projects at St. Theresa’s College would be completed before the end of his tenure. He appealed to the people that the only way the projects can be sustained was to vote for the PDP in the elections.
At Ovwor-Olomu community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of the state where nine roads were commissioned, Governor Uduaghan thanked the people of the local government for their massive votes and support for the PDP and urged them to repeat the feat in the forthcoming elections.
It was however, a unique valentine celebration for the people of Umeh in Isoko South Local Government Area as Governor Uduaghan commissioned a road project. It was the icing on the cake for the commissioning exercise and Governor Uduaghan chose to do it on February 14, Valentine Day.
The turn-out of people for the event was overwhelming and from the East/West road where the governor alighted from his vehicle, he danced with the mammoth, joyous crowd to the canopy where a seat was reserved for him.
To the governor, Umeh road was special. This is because; the road has opened up a community which was thought to have been abandoned yet, very rich in terms of agricultural produce. He disclosed that he heard about the road through the social media (Umeh Need Road On Facebook) and had to visit the community to know the state of the road, noting that it was a difficult community to access through road as at 2011 when the construction of the road was awarded.
According to the Governor, “it was through the Umeh Need Road group on Facebook that I knew about Umeh road and we engaged ourselves on Facebook. During one of my inspection visits to the community, I visited the school and it was not befitting and we awarded the contract for the construction of the school which will also be commissioned today.” “I am excited not because this is our first road project or the most expensive project but, I am excited because, today, Umeh has a road. The traditional ruler of this community is very appreciative, this is a community that protects the projects in the community, Umeh youths, we appreciate you, Umeh women, we appreciate you, Umeh people, we appreciate you.”
He emphasized that he was attracted to the road based on his Delta Beyond Oil programme as he was made to know that Umeh community could feed the country as the people were mainly farmers. At the commissioning of the school where the traditional ruler of the community, HRH Odiri Ambrose Oweh, conferred the chieftaincy title, Ovielo (King of Light) of Umeh on the governor for his efforts at developing the community, Governor Uduaghan said, “today is a day of love, Valentine Day, you have expressed that love to me and we appreciate that love, for the beneficiaries of the micro-credit scheme, you have to grow your businesses to enable you establish cottage industries. We have started micro credit here and we believe that in the next two or three years, the beneficiaries of this micro-credit would have grown to own small-scale businesses.”
“This is an emerging urban town in this state, it is by the East/West road, we can connect Uzere from here and we are going to do that. Umeh must be the food basket of this nation, so, the Umeh people, you must adhere to the agreement of continuing with the agricultural programmes,” the governor who assured the people that he will pay regular visits to Umeh community said.
To conclude that series of commissioning exercise, the governor said, more projects would be commissioned in the next few days. At Aradhe, he told the people that some phases of the Ughelli/Asaba road project would be commissioned while he informed the people of Emede that the State’s Training Centre for Arts and Craft, Emede, Isoko South Local Government Area would be put to use soon.
At all the communities visited, an excited crowd came out to receive the governor who did not fail to let the people know that, “the only way you can get more projects is by voting for PDP in the elections, collect your PVC (Permanent Voters’ Cards) because, that is the ticket for you to vote for the PDP.”

Human capital development on point. Kudos

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State has said that the State's Training Centre for Arts and Craft, Emede in Isoko South local government area would be put to use very soon.

The Governor who dropped the hint about the opening of the Centre during an inspection of the project observed that everything that was required for the centre to be used by the beneficiaries have been put in place.

He disclosed that the project would be commissioned in the next couple of weeks, stating that beneficiaries of the programmes at the centre would be empowered through the micro-credit programme to enable them become entrepreneurs and employers of labour.

"I stopped over to see this skill acquisition centre, which is meant to train people on different vocations and after that they will be equipped set up their own businesses", he stated adding: "We have built it, equipped it and in the next few weeks it will be opened to train our people.

Dr. Uduaghan said that the State-run Micro-credit Scheme will empower graduates of the Centre to be able to start their own businesses as well as employ others yet to be gainfully engaged. He stressed that: "those who cannot do government work or acquire skills from this centre can also go into farming, farming is a lucrative business."

He used the opportunity to call on Isoko people in particular to vote for only candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the forthcoming elections as that would be the only way to sustain the development and empowerment programmes by the successive administration of the PDP in the state and at the federal levels.

Earlier the Permanent Secretary in charge of the Directorate of Culture and Tourism, Pat Ajufo , who conducted the Governor round the Centre assured that the Training Centre was virtually ready to take off.

Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay is the Secretary to the State Government in Delta State since 2011. Macaulay, in this interview, gives an insight into the agitation of the Isoko nation for equity. Excerpts:

By Hugo Odiogor

Would you say the political atmosphere in the state today is convivial?

In every crisis situation, once the leader is matured, he does not degenerate. And the maturity in this case means leaders should be ready to sacrifice, leaders should be ready to play down issues instead of playing them up. They have to do so because a true general is a general that goes to war and comes back with his team.

Macaulay
It’s not the general that goes to war and lose his men. Immediately after the primaries, I called a meeting of my people and I told them I was not ready to shed any youth’s blood because of position.

The first thing I must make clear is that it has nothing to do with me as a person. The winner of the primaries was free, even if it was zoned to Isoko to pick anybody of his choice.

Imposition of deputy governor

I’ve always told people there are two positions you don’t impose on the governor or anybody who wants to become a governor, his deputy which is what we call a running mate, because this is a person that must be a man of his heart. In normal circumstances, it must be someone close to him that he can confide in, he understands and two of them can even use signs to talk and government will run smoothly.

The second person you don’t impose on a governor is his secretary to government because if he does not have the confidence of the secretary to government, there’s no way there can be peace in that state.

Even if they pretend to be peaceful, the government cannot run smoothly because the secretary to government should be somebody who’s ready to take the bullets on behalf of his boss and the state at any time.

It should be somebody who can do it and damn the consequence and who has the confidence of his boss as well. It should be somebody who understands who his boss is and the boss should also understand who the secretary to the government is. I’ve always believed that you don’t impose these two positions on any person.

From 1999 to date, you see that not one federal minister has come to Isoko. Mrs. Omu was there as a senator for just four years, 1999 to 2003. Thereafter till today, Senate has never come to Isoko; in short no federal position is in Isoko land.

Federal position

You will recall that after Oloibiri in 1958 where oil was discovered, the next place oil was discovered was Isoko land. And we have remained a main onshore oil producer in this country till date.

This is a tribe or a nationality that till this moment does not enjoy a significant federal appointment. Not a reputable board or a minister of state, not an ambassador to the Isoko people. That was why they were agitated, so they are justified. But I will not tell them they are justified to the extent of going to the streets and bringing the youths out to spill their bloods, instead let us dialogue. Politics is about dialogue.

What do you think are Okowa’s chances in the forth coming election?

I’m not God, but I think all the indices are in his favour. It’s not just because he’s Dr Okowa. It will be a miracle for PDP to lose election in Delta State. Delta State is a PDP state. And any day any time, PDP will win. PDP is doing local government to local government rallies; the oppositions are doing what you call senatorial rallies.

At times when people want to judge, they will say see the crowd that went for the rally of the other party the other day. But you forget that that party is doing one for the whole eight local governments in central and you are comparing it to the man who is doing it in eight places.

That is a wrong judgment. But I can tell you that PDP will win Delta state any day any time. That is why you always see that PDP’s struggle is always on the primaries, because once you get the primaries, you are as good as already the elected governor because it’s a PDP state. I don’t have fear about that.

How can the Urhobo be assuaged to drop their threat to vote against the President and PDP in Delta State?

The game of politics is played more informally. We are talking to ourselves, people are talking to people. For me I will continue to appeal to my brothers in the central. I’ve always told them whenever I had the opportunity of speaking publicly especially during the 2007 campaign in which I was really prominent.

Second fiddle

I told that there is no doubt you are the elder brother, you have the population but you cannot continue to dominate the scene, you must give the other people a room to also taste so that we can have a peaceful state where everybody has a sense of belonging and want to work to contribute to it. Because if I see that I’m always a second fiddle, of course you don’t expect me to be that productive.

If now Okowa from Delta North becomes the governor by God’s grace this year, eight years just now is over.

So for me, the Urhobos should just be patient. In eight years, Okowa would have been through. James Ibori was the first governor for eight years, he left and we fought for power shift and it came to south and Dr Uduaghan was fortunate to have it.

Just now, his eight years is coming to an end. After him, if Okowa now has it, eight years after Okowa is through, they can now make a case that it is now the turn of Urhobos to start again.

What do you see as your own political future after being SSG for four years?

For me, I’m somebody who lives life everyday giving thanks to God. In have a history that those who contend with me can only contend with God. God has my future and He has always played it the way He wants to play it.

TWO new commissioners were sworn in Wednesday in Asaba, Delta State, with the Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan assuring that his administration would not be derailed in delivering legacy projects.

Former Commissioner for Energy Mr. Charles Emetulu and former Permanent Secretary, Government House and Protocol, Mr. Tony Obuh both who resigned their positions to contest for the governorship primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) took oath of office as commissioners alongside a new Permanent Secretary, Mrs Emotokare Ikogho.

According to the Governor, "we are nearing the end of our second term in office but, we still have a lot of urgent challenges arising from our committed pursuit to delivering legacy projects in the state and we need not be derailed in our resolve to delivering the dividends of democracy to Deltans."

"It is necessary that we face these challenges with support and expertise of our best hands, not just best but devoted and loyal persons, he stated.

"I therefore expect that the two new Commissioners and the Permanent Secretary will give their best to the entire state and provide fresh ideas to support government in delivering on our legacy projects, build sustainable foundation for our economy and take Delta State to the next level," the Governor added.

While advising the new appointees, "to serve with integrity, devotion, loyalty and accountability," in whatever office they may find themselves, the Governor particularly, described the two new commissioners as "really very humble, the two people involved in the Commissionership are good politicians in Delta who came out to contest for the governorship position, they have political structures which is just the beginning and the sky is their limits."

The Governor added: "Let me remind you that your assignment will be quite challenging, especially as the time is short, and we seek to accomplish most of our projects, I therefore urge you to have the desirable attitude, ingenuity, and deep insights in handling your various assignments because, that is the only way to leave the desired legacy of service to Delta State."

Responding on behalf of his colleague, Hon. Emetulu thanked the Governor for the appointment and promised that they will help the Governor "not only to finish strong but to land well," while Mrs Ikogho pledged to carry out her duties diligently, without fear or favour.

BY FIDELIS EGUGBO

PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has commissioned an ultra-modern Government House edifice in Asaba. The commissioning of the structure which is one of its kinds in this part of the world was done after the Presidential rally of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Asaba, on Wednesday, February 4, 2015.
It was surprising that Governor Uduaghan decided that the project commissioning should be like that. This is because the Governor, since the inception of his administration, has always maintained a low profile when it comes to blowing his trumpet. And of course, the commissioning of the new Government House structure was without much fanfare.
The Governor believes that he was elected to carry out do what he is doing. To him, why commission a water project if such project can comfortably ease the stress of the people or commission road which has made facilitated movement of people from one place or the other. This could be the reason the Asaba Airport Project and many other landmark projects executed by the Uduaghan’s administration have not be commissioned. Of course, these projects are already serving the purposes they were designed and constructed for.
It was really a day of praises for Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan as all those who spoke at the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) rally took time to praise him for his efforts towards empowering the people. Of course his successor-in-waiting, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, was beaming with satisfactory smile as the PDP rally lasted. It is worthy to state that the gubernatorial candidate of the party has toured all parts of the state and his acceptability by the people was obvious from the praises heaped on him by the crowd that turned out for the rally.
President Jonathan, who spoke in pidgin, stated, “Delta nor dey carry last,” as he was enthusiastic with the level of organisations for the rally, the crowd was massive and obviously, he was making reference to the fact that he never had it so good during the rallies compared to what he saw in Delta State.
“Delta is a great state,” he reiterated and informed the people that he was seeking re-elections based on the fact that PDP remains the only political party that has the future of Nigeria at heart. To the President, his administration is empowering the youths and providing job opportunities that have never been seen in the history of Nigeria. Delta State is a beneficiary of such projects as his administration has established a Maritime University making Delta the only state with two federal universities.
He also stated that the more than 16 billion dollars gas city project would be the biggest oil and gas project in Africa when completed and disclosed that apart from the project giving a boost to the economy of the country, it will to a large extent, reduce unemployment among Nigerian youths.
Definitely, the President was confident about the massive votes he will receive from the oil-rich state as it was a more of a thank you visit bearing in mind that Deltans are comfortable with his administration’s Transformation Agenda for Nigeria.
His wife did not mince words on why Nigerian women in particular should vote for the President as she observed that no other President would be able to give women voice in the political terrain as President Jonathan has done. This is a verifiable fact as the women who are Ministers are doing very well and of course, during President Jonathan’s administration, women even took the pride of place in the judicial sector.
The Vice-President, Arch. Namadi Sambo, described President Jonathan as a man who deserves the votes of Nigerians bearing in mind that he is still young and vibrant. To him, the world has gone beyond having old men as leaders, observing that countries that have the best economies in the world have leaders who are less than sixty years old.
To the Chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Adamu Muazu, “the people of Delta have shown love for a great party, the PDP from the beginning, the people of Delta State are great supporters of the PDP,” while the Governor of Bayelsa State, Mr. Seriake Dickson, asserted, “I am proud to be a Deltan with this wonderful crowd that I am seeing.”
Chairman of South South Governors Forum, Senator Liyel Imoke, also expressed gratitude to Governor Uduaghan for boosting the strength of the PDP in the state through his people-oriented projects and the Director-General of the campaign organisation for President Goodluck Jonathan, Senator Ahmadu Ali, shouted, “this crowd in Asaba today is superlative.”
He thanked Governor Uduaghan for carrying out programmes and executing projects which have made the people to remain committed to the PDP.
The former Governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, described Governor Uduaghan’s empowerment programmes as that which has given succour to a lot of people from Anambra State. “Delta State is a state that has come first for more than three years as a result of micro-credit programme, many people from Anambra are doing business and they are comfortable,” Mr. Obi said.
Dr Uduaghan thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for a result-yielding human capital development programme which he observed has given recognition to those in the entertainment industry – musicians, actors cum actresses, comedians, among others, stating that more than 80 per cent of the beneficiaries of such gesture were Deltans. He also observed that the President has encouraged sports development which has made Deltans to win gold medals for the country in the last Commonwealth Games assuring that the people of the state would vote massively for the PDP in the forthcoming elections.