By CHIBUZO ISICHEI

AS Deltans marked the 8th Edition of the Delta Mother’s Day of prayer with its theme, FAITHFUL GOD”, Wife of the State Governor Deaconess Roli Nere Uduaghan enjoined all Deltans to come together with one heart to move the State forward.
Mrs. Uduaghan, who spoke to over 2,500 women drawn from different parts of the State yesterday to intercede for the State and Nigeria at the Banquet Hall, New Government House, Asaba, enjoined the women not to take the prayer as one of those usual gatherings but to thank God for his faithfulness upon the State. A lot have happened. God has been faithful to our State, our local governments and individuals families.
She said that there was need to build the land, using Delta State as a point of contact because the State is going to be the image of transformation and as Mothers, we must rise to embrace it through prayers.
According to her, “A land you don’t bless cannot bless you, until you be a partaker in the land, It will not bless you. And if you want to be a partaker of the great things in the land, you must set a watch over your mouth and pray for the good of the land even when things are changing.
On the Delta Mother’s Day of Prayer which she has conducted for eight years now, she thanked God for the accomplished assignment and every other thing in the State. She advised all women to give their support to the incoming Governor’s wife so that the State can go to greater heights.
The Governor’s wife, who challenged all the women to take up the assignment to be praying for the land, for peaceful and successful election in the State and country, handed the baton of the Delta Mother’s Day of Prayer to the incoming Governor’s wife, Dame (Mrs.) Edith Okowa for her to continue with the prayer. According to Mrs. Uduaghan while presenting the paper to Mrs. Okowa, she said “This is what we stand on, It doesn’t matter what happens, we will continue with the prayer”. She prayed to God to help her to go through her own season without stress.
Speaking at the occasion, Dame (Mrs.) Okowa described the Delta Mother’s Day of Prayer as a nice thing bringing women together to pray for the State, the nation, families and on the 2016 Mother’s Day of Prayer, she said that she will seek God’s directive on what to do. According to her “Everything about me is faithfulness to God. Why will I not worship God, God showed me mercy and He will continue to do it for me”.
The prayer which started by 8.30am ended by 1.20pm with praise and worship by Chioma Jesus, Rev. Victor Ataniga and Government House Choir with special prayers for Delta State and Nigeria conducted by Pastor Matthew Ezedom.

By FIDELIS EGUGBO

Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has said peaceful elections in Nigeria cannot be compromised as the nation cannot afford to fail because of its implications for the unity of the country.
Speaking yesterday in Asaba at a Voters Education meeting with traditional rulers, Governor Uduaghan stated that all hands must be on deck to ensure that the nation got it right as the consequences of failure would be too disastrous.
He said that the Government, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and stakeholders were working together to ensure that the forthcoming elections would be free and fair as well as devoid of any form of violence.
“As much as possible, we want to totally remove violence during elections and one way of achieving this is through proper voter education. You know ignorance can lead to violence and there are so many people out there that are not well informed about issues surrounding the temporary voters’ card, permanent voters’ card, the voting process etc”, he stated.
The Governor said everything would be done to ensure that there was no violence during and after the elections, saying: “We are determined to have peaceful elections in Nigeria and Delta State in particular. It is important and very critical that we have peaceful elections.”
He disclosed that there were still about six hundred thousand permanent voters’ cards that are yet to be collected and urged traditional rulers to inform their subjects to endeavour to collect their voters’ cards before the deadline.
Uduaghan observed that Delta State has recorded peaceful electioneering campaigns and informed the traditional rulers that President Goodluck Jonathan would lead the campaign train of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to Asaba tomorrow (Wednesday) for a campaign rally and urged all Deltans to remain peaceful throughout the period.
“We are expecting the visit of the Mr. President to be very peaceful even as the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential candidate, Mohammadu Buhari had a peaceful campaign in the state,” disclosing that security agencies were collaborating to ensure a hitch-free visit by the President and his team.
He also observed that Delta State has recorded a peaceful electioneering period adding: “The beauty of our primaries was that they were all peaceful, candidates emerged, nothing unusual happened as it concerns security issues, we thank God for that because we had some other States in the country where there was violence after their primaries.”
He enjoined security agencies to be more vigilant after the Presidential elections, noting that the state elections are more competitive in Delta State.
The resident electoral commissioner (REC) in Delta State, Elder Aniedi Ikoiwak said INEC was prepared for peaceful, free, fair and credible elections, disclosing that logistics have been put in place for accreditation of voters to commence at exactly 8.00 am on the day of elections.

He emphasised that voting can only be done with the permanent voter’s cards and by the owners of such cards as electronic card readers have been procured to ensure that voting cannot be done by proxy.
Traditional rulers who spoke at the occasion promised to enlighten their subjects on the need to collect their PVCs while heads of security agencies assured Deltans that no stone would be left unturned to ensure peaceful and successful elections.
They warned trouble makers to desist from entering the election venues as they were prepared to prosecute anybody caught engaging in actions that are detrimental to the electioneering process

BY MICHAEL IKEOGWU-WARRI

Delta State First Lady, Deaconess Roli Uduaghan, at the weekend called on Deltans to vote for the governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, describing him as a man who matches his word with action.
Deaconess Uduaghan, who spoke at Otu-Jeremi, Udu and Ogbe-Ijoh, during the PDP governorship rally to the three local government areas, described Senator Okowa’s candidature as divine.
She said that the prosperity agenda of Senator Okowa simply explain the hand f God on him, adding that he has no doubt in the ability of the PDP governorship candidate to deliver the true dividend of democracy to the people of the state.
She specifically urged the Udu people to vote massively for the PDP to consolidate the good works of the outgoing PDP-led administration particularly, to enable the incoming administration complete the gigantic Oleri Leisure Park project and, therefore, urged the people of Udu to disappoint those who say Udu people don’t vote PDP.
Deaconess Uduaghan allays the fear of those who said that the election may be marred by violence, saying that the election will be free and fair devoid of violence and thuggery. She admonished those that are yet to collect the Permanent Voters Card to do so to enable them vote for Senator Okowa.

THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday said a total of 1,422,595 Permanent Voters’ Card (PVC) have so far been distributed out of 1,911,332 registered voters in Delta State. Administrative Secretary
of INEC in the state, Mr. Owhor Nathan, who disclosed this at the training workshop of mobilizing officers of National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Asaba, said the distribution of the balance of 488,337 PVCs is on-going and would be completed before the general elections next month.
According to him, distribution of the PVCs have been further decentralized with the directive to electoral officers to move to the various communities to ensure that all registered voters get their cards.
Specifically, he stated that distribution of PVCs for Ika South Local Government where fresh registration of voters was carried, would be done on unit level for everybody to receive the card. Mr. Owhor also disclosed that consignment of card reading machines for accreditation and tracking of information on PVCs were yesterday received in Asaba.
The INEC Chief said the election would hold between 8.00am and 1.00pm while ballot papers
and result sheets would be shared a day before the election.
He affirmed that the commission needs 21,000 adhoc staff to be able to cope with the election holding in 3,624 polling units, 270 wards and 943 voting points in the state.
Earlier in his address, the state Director of NOA, Sir Isaac Ezechi, said the workshop was necessary to equip the officers with the necessary
information to further carry out aggressive voters’ education at the grassroots.
Sir Ezechi stated that the training of the officers would be followed with the training of NOA field officers and members of the citizens, volunteer corps in the various council areas.
The state director said it was expected that the officers carry out the training of citizens volunteer corps immediately so that they could embark on voters’ education in the various communities using theatre for development and community dialogue approaches.
He directed the officers to liaise with the electoral officers to organize forum for the inter-Agency committe

THE Governor of Delta State, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has raised alarm over the non collection of more than seven hundred thousand (700, 000) permanent voters cards (PVC) in the state.

Addressing a mammoth crowd of Deltans who turned out for PDP campaign rally at Akwukwu-Igbo, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State at the weekend, Governor Uduaghan observed that large turnout of Deltans at PDP organized rallies was good, but, asserted that such support could only be transformed to victory for the PDP if the people have their PVCs.

While commending the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for decentralizing the collection points of the PVCs, Dr Uduaghan disclosed that about 1.2 million PVCs have been distributed in Delta State.

"About seven hundred thousand permanent voters cards have not been collected in Delta State, please, it is good for us to attend rallies to show our strength, and it is also very important for us to vote and the only way we can vote for our party's candidates is by having our PVCs," the Governor said, reiterating, "we don't want our party to lose one vote in Delta, so, collect your PVCs to enable you vote."

He added, "we must vote for our President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, he has done a lot within four years that people are comparing what he did within four years with what others did within eight years, imagine another four years for him in the office, Nigeria will be transformed.

"For our governorship candidate, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, he will work and I am sure he will do what you want him to do for you."

Governor Uduaghan also called for votes for the Delta North Senatorial candidate of the PDP, Barr. Peter Nwaoboshi, votes for the candidate of House of Representatives Aniocha/Oshimili Federal constituency, Hon. Amaechi Mrakpor and the candidate of the party for House of Assembly, Oshimili North constituency, Hon. Pat Ajudua.

Senator Okowa assured Deltans that there will be revolution in the agricultural sector, rapid development of the state by consolidating on the achievements of Governor Uduaghan's administration while introducing new programmes that will uplift the standard of living of Deltans.

Chairman of the party in the state, Chief Edwin Uzor, chairman of the PDP campaign organization in the state, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire, PDP chieftain, Chief Peter Okocha and others who spoke at the rally urged the people to vote for only candidates of the PDP.

By Festus Ahon

ASABA—DELTA State Commissioner for Information, Mr Chike Ogeah, yesterday, said that Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan was committed to the emergence of an Anioma indigene as his successor in the February 28 poll.

Ogeah, in an interactive session with journalists, said the state’s Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate in the governorship election, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, was carrying a pan-Delta mandate and an Anioma mandate.

Noting that the PDP was still intact after the primary election, even though a few persons had decamped to contest election in other political parties, Ogeah said a good number of those that contested the governorship primaries and lost were still in the party working for its victory.

Saying that government was a continuum, he expressed optimism that the PDP would continue to rule the state because it has done well.

He added that the state would improve tremendously if Dr Okowa was elected and given eight years.

According to him, the state was predominantly a PDP State, adding that the defection of some of its members has not breached peace in the state.

BY Dominic Okonta

DELTA State Government has given contractors handling state projects four months ultimatum to complete their projects, as it will embark on massive commissioning of projects before the end of its tenure this year.
The State Commissioner for Works, Hon. Funkekeme Solomon in a meeting with some major contractors in charge of bridge, fly-over and road projects, especially those connecting communities, yesterday in his Asaba office, said that the completion of the on-going projects is a task that must be done.
‘‘The State Government’’ he said, ‘‘has directed that it will embark on massive commissioning of projects, you should fast tract your work, double your efforts, you must know that your good works will advertise your efficiency’’.
Hon. Funkekeme said that the determination of the government to complete all on-going projects according to specification was parts of its policy to finish strong and landing well before handing over the baton of leadership.
He stressed on the importance of returning to the project sites during the conducive period (dry season), adding that the contractors are well motivated financially and morally by the government, ‘‘you should please double your efforts to ensure the completion of the projects’’.
His words, ‘‘double your efforts by increasing the numbers and qualities of your work force for work efficiency, because if your work is not qualitative, it will show before or after one year’’.
The Commissioner then urged them to ensure that they deliver quality and sustainable project in line with the advanced practice so that they could be recommended to the next administration, adding that Governor Uduaghan would soon commence unscheduled monitoring and evaluation of projects done so far.
While commending them for being partners in progress with the state government, he urged them to submit their revised work programmes on Wednesday, next as the ministry would commence un-scheduled monitoring and evaluation of projects done so far.

THE Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG), Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay, has described Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, Delta State Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) bearer as a sellable candidate that would emerge victorious at the February 28, 2015 polls.
Comrade Macaulay stated this in an interview with The POINTER during the flag-off of PDP campaign at Oghara, Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State.
The SSG said that what PDP needed to do which it has done was to give the people a candidate that is sellable.
His words, “Senator Ifeanyi Okowa is more than sellable. I have known Dr. Okowa since the Second Republic. He has been a Secretary to a local government; he has also been a chairman of a local government. He was a Commissioner in the State; he was also the Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG) and now a Senator. I don’t think he needs any other thing more than these to govern the state”.
“Perhaps, the only position left for him outside being a President is to be a governor of a state and that is what God has given to him”, he averred.
While also describing Senator Okowa as a grassroots politician, a simple, humble man with pedigree and character as well as somebody that has a listening ear, he posited that in all aspects, “he is qualified to govern the state”.
He enjoined Deltans to continue to support PDP and vote for the party in next month’s election, even as he also advised them to wait behind at the polling booths until their votes were counted and announced.

By KELVIN OSEMENE/FIDELIS EGUGBO /ANDREW OHWOBETEHE

THE Delta state chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), yesterday, at the Oghara Township Stadium flagged off its campaign for the 2015 governorship polls with a strong indication that it was set for total victory.
Two national leaders of the party, Chief Diepriye Alamiesigha, Chairman, PDP Presidential Campaign Contact Committee, South-South and Dr. Cairo Ojuogboh, South-South party chairman
who spoke at the occasion while commending the state chapter for repositioning for victory, maintained that PDP was prepared for total victory.
They expressed optimism that PDP would sweep the polls both at the presidency and state levels.
Earlier, the state party Chairman, Chief Edwin Uzor, had said victory at the forthcoming polls would not be compromised.
The chairman, who enumerated the achievements of PDP-led administration in the state since the return to civil rule in 1999, urged all Deltans to vote for Okowa/Otuaro ticket of PDP, President Jonathan and all candidates of the party during the elections.
He assured that victory for the party would guarantee more dividends of democracy and prosperity for Deltans.
Chief Uzor, while stressing the importance of the people’s vote, appealed to Deltans to collect their permanent voters card as they could not exercise their franchise without the cards.
Addressing the mammoth crowd of supporters, the PDP Gubernatorial candidate, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, promised to consolidate on the gains of the Uduaghan administration while expanding the frontiers of industry, agriculture and health among others.
Similarly, Governor Uduaghan expressed confidence that the party will emerge victorious in all the elections as flags were presented to the Senatorial candidates, those for House of Representatives, including candidates for House of Assembly at the Oghara Township Stadium venue of the ceremony which was well attended.
Governor Uduaghan stated that the PDP has a history of victory in the state and its track record of project delivery in the state and the country has given the party campaign materials.
The Governor, who presented the PDP gubernatorial candidate for the elections, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa to Ethiope West Local Government Area’s traditional rulers’ council at the Palace of the Ovie of Oghara shortly before moving to the Oghara Township Stadium, asserted, “we have always won elections and we will win again because the PDP have a lot of things on ground to campaign with.”
Senator Okowa at the occasion said he will consolidate on the achievements of Governor Uduaghan and that of former Governor James Ibori administrations.
He assured the traditional rulers that when elected, he will continue with government partnership with them for the development of the state.
The Ovie of Oghara, HRH Oyibo Eshemiatu commended the PDP for its unity and commended Governor Uduaghan for providing good leadership to the party.
Ovie of Mosogar, HRH Omene specifically said the traditional rulers have endorsed the candidature of Senator Okowa stating, “we are moving away from politics of ethnicity, we are moving to the politics of development and we know that Senator Okowa will ensure development when he becomes the governor.”
At the campaign rally at the stadium, Senator Okowa assured Deltans that his administration will continue to build bridges of unity in the state, asserting, “we will remain as one united Delta”.
He added that his administration will develop the agricultural sector, accelerate industrialisation of the state, restructure the education sector and improve on the programmes of Governor Uduaghan’s administration.
The PDP Chairman in the state, Chief Edwin Uzor, who presented flags to the candidates observed that the PDP has done a lot for Nigerians, especially in Delta State and urged Deltans to vote for the PDP to enable the party continue with its development stride.
Others who spoke at the rally include the state’s Deputy Governor, Prof. Amos Utuama (SAN), Senator Okowa’s running mate, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, the South South Chairman of the PDP, Dr. Cairo Ojougbo, the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Dr. Steve Oru, the Chairman of the PDP Campaign Committee, Prof. Sam Oyovbaire, the Chairman, Presidential Campaign contact committee for Delta State, Chief Diepreye Alamieyesegha, among others, urged Deltans to vote massively for the PDP in the interest of the nation and the state in particular.
In a related development, the PDP campaign train moved from Oghara and berthed at Koko, Warri North Local Government Area of the state where Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan stressed the need for continuity which could be achieved by voting all PDP candidates, including President Jonathan.
He commended all for supporting the three point agenda of his administration, particularly peace and security.
The event also witnessed the presentation of flags to party candidates in the three Senatorial districts, including Senator James Manager, Delta South, Chief Ighoyota Amori, Central and Barr. Peter Nwaoboshi, North.
Others who received the party flags were House of representatives and state House of Assembly candidates, including Erhiatake Ibori, daughter of former Governor, James Ibori ,who would fly the party’s flag for Ethiope West constituency, Delta state House of Assembly.
All economic, social and commercial activities in the area were put to a halt as roads leading to and out of the Oghara township stadium, venue of the historic event in the locality were blocked.
Party faithful and supporters of the governorship candidate, including women and youths from all over the state, trouped out en-mass to welcome and declare their unreserved support for Dr. Okowa’s dream and desire to govern Delta state.
The PDP flag-bearer assured Deltans of his desire to continue to carry-on the good work of the transformation agenda of his predecessor that has led to growth and development of the state, saying that both women and youths in the three Senatorial districts would be recognised in the scheme of things.
While calling on all irrespective of religious and ethnic affiliations to close ranks and support the move to take Delta to the next level, Dr, Okowa added that it is only PDP that has the agenda good enough to realise the yearnings and aspirations of the people.
A front line politician and PDP Chieftain in the area, Hon Victor Ogheneochuko Bobi, who spoke to newsmen later, called on Urhobos to put their differences aside and support Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa’s candidature, revealing that the emergence of Okowa is Delta best bet.
Hon. Bobi who is also the Financial Secretary of Rain Oil Petroleum Tankers Drivers (PTD) Association of Delta state vowed to mobilise his men and indeed the people of Ethiope West Local Government Area to vote for Dr. Okowa.

Congratulations to our comrade leader.

The Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), Delta State has charged members and party supporters to shun violence and maintain a peaceful resolve in the state as the party’s campaign rally kicks off today for the 2015 general elections with the presentation of flags to its flag bearers in gubernatorial, House of Representatives and House of Assembly elections.
The ceremony holds at Oghara Township Stadium in Ethiope West Local Government Area of the state. Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, the party’s gubernatorial candidate, will lead the cast with three Senatorial candidates, 10 House of Representatives aspirants and 29 state House of Assembly flag bearers.
Today’s rally marks the beginning of a state-wide campaign programme that will take the train to all the 25 local government headquarters in the state.
According to the campaign rally itinerary issued by the media and publicity committee of the PDP Campaign Organisation in the state, the rally will be rounded off on February 4 with a grand finale and national rally in Asaba, the state capital.
The campaign train, which berth at Oghara by 10am will thereafter move to Koko, Warri North Local Government by 2pm.
The PDP Publicity Secretary, Hon. Deinghan Rey Macaulay, who gave the charge in an exclusive interview with The POINTER at the party Secretariat, Asaba, explained that it takes a simple majority to win the polls, noting that with the machinery on ground, the PDP has shown the world that it has structure in the state to pull the clout they need to win.
His words, “Tomorrow (today), we are flagging off our campaign, one of the highlights of the flag-off is to present flag to all the PDP flag bearers at various levels, the party has made adequate arrangement and flags are ready to be handed over to the party flag-bearers.”
Reiterating the need for the party supporters to maintain a calm resolve all through the campaign timeframe, he said, “the opposition believes in spoiling the whole thing, we should not be like them because we have won the elections as it stands. So, if you fight with them you end up getting the bad name. The PDP has always been a focused party. We should remain focused while they continue to foment trouble to their mortification”.
Deinghan said that all rationale points to the facts that the PDP is set for a landslide victory in the state as they have the roots deeply planted in the state as they have overtime ensured the dividends of democracy to the people.
“It is almost a one party state, except that there must be opposition; we have no viable opposition. If you look, you will see that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is a party of defunct Alliance for Democracy (AD) and Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) likewise the Labour Party (LP). If they had come together to form one party, it would have been somewhat viable though they still wouldn’t have been able to pose a threat to the PDP. But now that they are in fragment, I don’t know where they will get the power to cling the seats”, he said
“Parties merging is not a new thing. It happened during the first and second republics. Merging does not assure victory. So, even if they merge, they have no structure in the state to pull the clout they need to win. At the national level, even their parties are not viable and structured.” he added.
He reiterated the importance of exercising the right of franchise, he advised those who have not collected their PVC to go to their wards as stipulated by the INEC to get it as the cards have been made available by INEC.
Meanwhile, Delta State Governor, Dr. Uduaghan has called for reconciliation among members of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP).
The Governor made the call at the thanksgiving service held in honour of the PDP gubernatorial candidate in Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa at St. Philip`s Anglican Church, Asaba.
According to him, it was important that the PDP win in the general elections for the sake of the country and in particular, Delta State but, reiterated that effective reconciliation was important among members of the PDP.
“A lot of reconciliation has to be done in the party at the national level, at the state level, local government level, even at the unit level, I want to appeal for open heart to enable us reconcile and forgive one another”, Governor Uduaghan stated.
While observing that there is a lot of internal wrangling within the party at the national and state levels, the Governor said, “if you don’t forgive, you are in prison, when you forgive, you release yourself from that prison. You must forgive even a repeated offender, an unrepentant offender, and even people who believe you have offended them, we need to forgive one another so that God will forgive us all”.
He urged the people to be committed to PDP winning in the elections and commended Senator Okowa for giving thanks to God for receiving the PDP flag as the governorship candidate.
Fielding questions from journalists later, Senator Okowa thanked God for his emergence as the governorship candidate and urged Deltans not to relent in their support for his aspiration.
Earlier, Venerable Felix Okonkwo in a sermon urged Christians to always forgive those who offend them, stating: “Great people forgive those who offend them, but, cowards seek vengeance”.
He described Senator Okowa as a God-fearing person and urged him to always be prayerful.

BY LUCKY OYIBO

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State says the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) has put on structures at the state and national levels to deliver the gubernatorial standard flag bearer in the state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, President Goodluck Jonathan and other flag bearers of the party in the February 2015 general elections.
Dr. Uduaghan gave the assertion when he led party faithful and stakeholders to join Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, wife, Edith and family to offer thanksgiving to God for seeing them through in the just concluded gubernatorial primaries at St. Philip’s Anglican Church (AGGS Compound), West End, Asaba, yesterday.
The state party Chairman, Chief Edwin Uzor, Senator James Manager, Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Peter Onwusanya, Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay and lawmakers representing Delta State in the National Assembly were in attendance.
The Governor, who harped on the unity of the party in the state ahead of next month’s general elections, said there is no denying the fact that there is a lot of internal wrangling within the party at the local, state and national levels which needed immediate reconciliation.
He said the essence of the thanksgiving was timely and a prelude to the victory of the party at all levels and called on party faithful and politicians alike to use the electioneering period to forgive one another as God forgives the sins of mankind.
“What is important at this point is the main elections and winning the elections and the first step to winning the elections is the thanksgiving to God; besides, a lot of reconciliation has to be done to win elections; therefore, we have to forgive unrepentant offenders; we should forgive one another as God forgives us our sins”, Governor Uduaghan urged party faithful.
While commending the Vicar of the church, Ven. Felix Okonkwo, for having the theme of his message: “Thanksgiving/Reconciliation, Governor Uduaghan promised to complete the tarring of the entrance road of the AGGS leading to the St. Philip’s Anglican Church in no distant time and pledged the donation of N10 million to complete the ongoing building projects of the church.
Delivering his homily from Matthew 25: 22-24; Ephesians 2: 15-18, Ven. Felix Okonkwo, charged aspirants/politicians of the party to drop any charges they hold against their enemies and learn to work together as one family as well as love one another.
While praying for Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan to finish strong, Ven. Okonkwo described Senator Ifeanyi Okowa as a dedicated Christian who has contributed to the work of God, praying the good Lord to see him and the party through in the 2015 general elections.
The Sermon which Second Lesson was taken by Senator Okowa’s wife, Edith, from the Book of Ephesians 2: 1-10, Senator Okowa called on all his co-contestants in the primaries, party faithful and Deltans to join hands with him to build the Delta State of our dreams by delivering him as the next Governor of the State in next month elections.
Highpoint of the ceremony was a special thanksgiving by Senator Okowa, accompanied by family and political associates.
Meanwhile, as Nigeria remembers its fallen heroes, Governor Uduaghan has called for actions which will deepen the peace and unity of the country, adding that Nigeria must remain united.
Uduaghan made the call yesterday at an inter-denominational thanksgiving service as part of activities for the year, 2015 Armed Forces Remembrance Day held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peters (Anglican Communion), Asaba.
According to him, it was important for Nigerians to shun actions that are capable of dividing Nigerians, stating that peaceful co-existence should not be compromised on the altar of selfish ego.
“Terrorism is not a Nigerian affair, it is a worldwide phenomenon, we need to support our security agencies in the fight against terrorism”, he said, adding, “by the grace of God, this nation will remain one indivisible entity”.
He said there are fears of election violence in the country, disclosing that his administration has mapped preventive measures to curb such violence in the state.
“Next month elections will come, there has been a lot of security concern for the elections; there have been prayers everywhere to prevent violence before, during and after the elections. As a government, we will not sit and watch it occur, we have put in place preventive programmes so that our people will know that nobody needs to die in an election.”
“We will mobilise our religious leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups and elders to educate our people to minimise election violence and reduce the work of security agencies”, he added.
He called for freedom of candidates to campaign wherever they want during the electioneering period and decried reports of threats to stop some people from campaigning in certain places.
The Governor noted that the armed forces was doing a lot for Nigerians and commended them for their efforts to keep Nigeria one.
Earlier, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Asaba, Rt. Rev. Justus Mogekwu in a sermon decried the tendency by some people to Islamise Nigeria at all cost, saying the activities of the Boko Haram Islamic sect was to “conquer the North, then foist their religion on the South.”
He prayed for peace and unity in Nigeria and called for support for the families of the fallen heroes.

By Festus Ahon

ASABA—Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, yesterday, told Nigerians to shun provocative utterances and actions capable of creating tension in the country.

Speaking at the launch of the 2015 Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem Appeal Week in Asaba, Uduaghan stressed the need for Nigerians to embrace dialogue.


Uduaghan
The governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay, said: “The occasion requires everyone to reflect on the need to avoid violent conflicts in the society by doing everything possible to promote peace and harmony.”

Enjoining the people to be fervent in prayers to God, so that the present security challenges facing the country do not escalate, Uduaghan called for prayers for “other countries in the world that are currently suffering from insurgency.”

According to him, “The week-long programme which started today (yesterday) is designed to accord the armed forces the honour they deserve for their sacrifices to their fatherland. We are gathered here to appreciate the sacrifices made by members of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the two World Wars, the Nigerian civil war, other regional conflicts and the current fight against insurgency.

“It is pertinent that we use this period to reflect on the need to avoid future violent conflicts in the society by doing everything possible to promote peace and harmony at all times. I exhort all Nigerians to embrace dialogue and abstain from provocative utterances and actions that will create tension in the country as we prepare for the general elections.”

Delta State Government Sponsor 147 Deltans To Barbados, Trinidad On Technical Training

Over 147 young people from Delta State have left for Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago for special training in technical vocations in the oil and gas sector, agriculture and hospitality industry under the sponsorship of the state government.
According to a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Chike Ogeah Esq, the students, accompanied by five chaperons and the Delta State Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. Hope Eghagha, will undergo training in machine drilling, welding and fabrication, electrical rigging and many related fields in the oil and gas sector. Fifty seven of the trainees will be in Trinidad which will host the oil and gas training programme that begins on December 8, 2014 and last for 10 months.
The remaining 90 trainees will proceed to Barbados for a series of orientation programmes that will last three weeks before the main training on the hospitality industry and agriculture begins in January 2015. The training programme was approved by Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, Governor of Delta State, under his Human capacity development agenda.
The 57 people are undergoing technical vocation training in the oil and gas industry form the initial batch of specialised manpower being prepared for the emerging opportunities in the oil and gas sector, especially with the envisaged multi-billion dollar Gas City project in Ogidigben where enormous technical manpower will be required.

By Sunday Egede

THE Executive Chairman of Delta State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Comr. Elijah Ologe has warned staff of the Board against absenteeism and lateness to work.
Ologe, who gave the warning yesterday during his maiden meeting with members of staff in the Board, said that the Board will not tolerate any such act of indiscipline including the habit of closing before the official closing hour.
“We will not tolerate any act of indiscipline such as absenteeism, lateness to work and the habit of closing before the official closing time”, he said, adding that the Board would take issues relating to commitment and dedication to duties very seriously.
According to him, SUBEB under his leadership, would try as much as possible to instill discipline among staff of the Board, pointing out that it (the Board) would be repositioned to enable it meet its statutory mandate.
While saying that fraud would not be tolerated in the Board, the SUBEB boss disclosed that “we are going to operate as colleagues but that should not be taken for granted”, even as he said that ‘together in the wheel of progress’ would be their slogan in the Board.
Speaking further, Ologe said “the doors of the offices in the Board are widely open to genuine ideas that would move the Board forward and not for gossiping”, just as he assured workers in the Board that their genuine entitlements would certainly get to them.
“We should always endeavour to do the right thing by contributing meaningfully towards the educational policies and programmes of the state government” he said, adding that the Board would not short change any staff.
Responding on behalf of the staff, the Chairman of Staff Welfare Association on the Board, Mr. Tony Kebordi expressed appreciation to the Chairman of the Board, Comr. Ologe for his advice and assured him and other members of the Board of the unalloyed support and cooperation of members of staff on the Board.
Present during the meeting were the first member on the Board, Prince Emmanuel Amgbaduba; the second member, Mrs. May Inijeh and the third member, Mr. Azikiwe Ako as well as Directors on the Board.

Macaulay Political Vanguard is a socio-political pressure group that metamorphosed from Macaulay Foundation with the sole responsibility to enhance good governance, development, uniting the people, and promote politics at the grass-root has over 15, 000 members cutting across various Local Government Areas of Delta State, with its base office in Owhelogbo, Isoko North Government Area of the State.

The group recently made their position known through the PRO Mr. Maxwell Otobor, when Sir. Anthony Chuks Obuh, formally declared his intention to contest the forth coming 2015 Governorship race in Delta State at the cenotaph, Asaba.

According to the PRO of the group, we mobilized over 200 members of this group from different part of the State to support Obuh on his declaration today, we did this without receiving money from any where, which is a reflection of the passion we have for him as a person, "listen let me tell you Obuh in question is a gentleman who knows how to do his job perfectly while he was in service, doesn't discriminate any one irrespective of tribe or religion and a friend to all, he further described the popular aspirant, a man that has gannered a lot of experience after serving the State for 32 years before he went on voluntary retirement to enable him use his wealth of experience to serve the good people of Delta State, also seeing the crowd here you will know the man is good and he will do well as a governor he said".

Meanwhile, Mr Otobor has described Obuh as the must qualified among others to take over from Uduaghan due to his experience in governance, It's on this note that we the entire members of Macaulay Political Vanguard is supporting the man of the moment Sir. Anthony Obuh and we therefore call on well meaning Deltans to join us in supporting him as he is prepared to take Delta State to the next level of our dreams. He also disclosed during the declaration at Asaba, that Macaulay Political Vanguard has just established its International branch in United Kingdom (UK) where Nigerians in UK will be meeting to share political knowledge and also contribute their quota to the development/growth of their country and Delta State in particular.

PAUL OSUYI, Asaba

Chairmanship candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were yesterday declared winners of the fresh council election for Ndokwa East and the run-off election for Ethiope East areas of the state.

With the result, the party had cleared the chairmanship seats for the 25 councils in the state, because the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) had earlier declared the party’s candidates winners in 23 councils after the October 25 poll.

Returning Officers for the two councils took turns to declare the results in the presence of DSIEC Chairman, Moses Ogbe, and other members of the electoral body at the commission’s headquarters in Asaba.

In Ethiope East, where the council election was declared inconclusive, the Returning Officer, Prof. Sunday Akparobi, announced the return of Mrs. Faith Majemite as winner having scored 28,828 votes.

Announcing the results for Ndokwa East, where election was fully conducted, the Returning Officer, Prof. Timi Akporunor, said Mrs. Nkechi Chukwurah of the PDP polled 24,003 votes to emerge winner.

Chairman of DSIEC, Mr. Ogbe, in a brief remark, decried the violence that characterized the election in some areas and appealed for a change of attitude from politicians.

by Adekunbi Ero
Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay, Secretary to the State Government, SSG, says “It is a full scale development in education” in Delta State. In this interview with Adekunbi Ero, executive editor, Tony Manuaka, senior associate editor; Folashade Adebayo, senior writer and Paul Kuyoro, photojournalist, the former state chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, and Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, however regrets that funding is a major challenge in going the whole hog “which is why today, we have some schools not up to the standard of the new ones”
How would you assess the education sector in Delta State?
Education in Delta State, like other sectors, has been one of growth. It has been a gradual work until what I would call outburst some two years back. Before now, the concentration was more on the manpower. And under the Uduaghan administration, 5,000 teachers, about 2,000 non-academic staff, have been employed in schools. There was a stage that we did not really have teachers in the Sciences and Mathematics, and that made the governor to give approval for the employment of 5,000 persons. Of course, we started with that process and what I will call then partial renovation of schools. But in the last two years, there has been phenomenal growth in that area, in the sense that we are now undertaking the full rehabilitation of schools. It is completely 100 per cent renovation, furnished to modern standards, and laboratory materials provided for the students. So, I would say education has really taken a different turn in Delta State.
Is this initiative going with the right teaching staff and materials?
First of all, we ensured that the right teaching staff are put in place. Having stabilised the area of teaching staff, we now went back to school infrastructure development. In any school that the Delta State government is renovating, we renovate completely; in some cases, we build additional classrooms where we find the original ones to be inadequate. For instance, in places where we found that some of the buildings were mud – that is to show you that maybe those buildings have not been touched since after the colonial era. But because they used cement to plaster it from time to time, when you look at it from outside, you would think it is a block work; but it is actually mud that was later plastered. When we found such situations, what we did was to say okay, the initial pricing was based on renovation, but break it down. I had that experience in St. Michael’s, Oleh. What we did was to break down the whole thing and erect a new building even at the same cost. In such cases, we commend the contractors who make sacrifices. As we are putting up the buildings, we are equipping the classrooms with modern benches and desks. We are equipping the laboratories with modern facilities and in such schools, even generators are provided. That is to tell you the extent to which we are going. It is a full-scale development.
What are some of the challenges you encountered in the course of these interventions?
The usual challenges in development – the challenges of funding. I do tell people that left to Uduaghan and his dreams, may be by now, we should be talking of how to put air conditioners on the streets of Delta State. But the resources are not there. The challenge we have today is why we have some schools not up to the standard of the new ones. Today, we have two categories of schools. Some that have been completely renovated up to the level that you will think some of them are even tertiary institutions. And then you have some that are still not there but that is because there is no fund to go round. We are supposed to do Phase I and Phase II. We are done with Phase I. The Phase II is having some setback because of funding.
In that case, is the state government likely to go for a loan or another bond?
That I cannot say. But one thing I can say of the present governor and his policies is the fact that he doesn’t want to leave a huge debt portfolio for the in-coming administration. He is trying to manage the debt portfolio to the extent that we should be able to pay back substantially before we leave office. I am not too sure, depending on the economic situation. Again, talking of facilities, you will recall that for the most part of last year, from the second quarter, I can boldly say that in the third and fourth quarter of last year, the resources were so lean to the extent that most times, states got 60 per cent or 70 per cent of what they were supposed to get. So this really affected the budget of the country not only Delta State. The challenges are multifaceted.
Is the free education policy as well as the payment for WAEC and NECO exams not putting so much pressure on the government?
Of course, it is putting so much pressure, but there is nothing you can give to anybody that you can compare with education. That is the best legacy anybody can bequeath to his children. So if you can do that, government should not do less. The level of bursary we pay in Delta State, the different categories of bursaries, the scholarships, then coming to this issue of no WAEC fees; no form of fees is paid. The burden is much but we feel that is the much we can give to the next generation.
Why have the four new polytechnics not taken off?
They will take off soon. But you see this is where our democracy is not fully ripe. Ordinarily, you don’t leave these types of gigantic projects to government alone. But people feel oh! let government do it. But the effects of government not doing it, the impact would be on all of us because we are talking of a huge amount of money being put in education. If you don’t put that money, then crime will continue to thrive. Today, we are spending so much money addressing crimes. If we don’t begin to engage these young ones coming up now, they will turn to crime and the cost of managing that criminality would be higher. So, everybody should contribute something. You may say the governor is shy; he does not want to ask people to come and give money. It is not him you are giving the money. Yes, the governor has pronounced the establishment of the polytechnics, and I must tell you, there were pressures on him to establish them. What is wrong with me or any one with the means, going to my village, assuming it was sited in my village, and say okay, this my building I donate it. Or even give it to lectures to use temporarily. Before you know it, the school will take off. But everybody is folding his hands for the day government will say okay, we have N3 billion, let us start building. And we all know that the nation’s resources are on the downward slide. But the buildings are ongoing.
What you are talking about can also be done by corporate organisations. In view of the fact that Delta is a major oil-producing state, how are you collaborating with the oil companies to develop education in the state?
I had dealings with oil companies for almost four years. Even in managing their own crises for them, to go back to the swamps, they will not even provide you accommodation. They will say it is against their rule. I returned the companies to the swamps in Warri from 2004 to 2007, when I was in charge of conflict resolution. If you come to work for them, they will tell you that their headquarters said they should not give government officials accommodation; that it amounts to bribe. They will tell you it is a joint venture – they report to the federal government; federal government takes 60 per cent of whatever they are making and that they are hardly able to pay their overhead. So, they are not really helping. Take Uzere for instance because it is very clear in history that after Oloibiri, Uzere, in Isoko South Local Government, was the next place oil was discovered in 1958. What is the status of Uzere today? They cannot even relate with the community because anytime there is flood, the people pack out of the community. That is Shell for you. Let’s come to Chevron, Gulf, as it used to be. They have operated in Ugborodo for almost 50 years now. Go there and look at where their own company is operating, where they call their camp and look at the community itself; it is a tale of two cities. To now tell them to come and fund state project, they will not.
Are you happy with the return of your investments in education in terms of performance of your students/pupils?
That is where this EduMarshal has become relevant. Yes, the state government is putting in much money training teachers, employing teachers and building infrastructure. But how serious are the students or the pupils? You go around the streets of Warri now, you see them hawking when they are supposed to be in school. Parents are encouraging their children not to go to school. Make you first go sell garri for me. That is what most parents are doing instead of saying no, this situation I found myself as a parent, my child will not undergo it. So parents should be encouraged to send their children to school. Secondly, we have lost our reading culture. A child comes back from school and will not read. This is not only happening in primary and secondary schools. There is nothing like variety reading. In those days, we read Mills and Boons, Pace Setters, Shakespeare and all sorts of novels. A child on holiday today will not read his books. He is either watching football, browsing or listening to music. Those are the type of things our children are doing and we the parents are encouraging them. So, I think we should begin to encourage our children to go back to reading. Those are the factors and some other problems that are responsible for this mass failure.
‘In any school that the Delta State government is renovating, we renovate completely; in some cases, we build additional classrooms where we find the original ones to be inadequate… As we are putting up the buildings, we are equipping the classrooms with modern benches and desks’

‘The level of bursary we pay in Delta State, the different categories of bursaries, the scholarships, then coming to this issue of no WAEC fees; no form of fees is paid. The burden is much but we feel that is the much we can give to the next generation’

By Festus Ahon

ASABA—A Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has ordered the restoration of Ughelli South constituency 1 and Isoko North constituency 1, suspended by Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

Delivering judgment on the matter brought before it by one Mr. Godwin Sito, and five others against INEC, the presiding judge, Justice Shitu Abubakar, ordered INEC to immediately conduct a by-election to fill the vacant seats created by the unlawful suspension of the two constituencies.

Before 1999, Ughelli South and Isoko North had two state constituencies each but INEC suspended one constituency each in the two local government areas in 1999.

Abubakar, in the judgment said: “Accordingly, reliefs one, two, three, four, five, six and seven are granted, while relief eight is hereby refused for the purposes of future elections.”

Counsel to the plaintiffs, Mr. John Okoriko, said: “This is a landmark judgment which has actually sustained our democracy. The ripple effect of the judgment is that it has restored the political rights and privileges appertaining to the good people of Ughelli South constituency 1and the people of Isoko North constituency 1.”

BY KINGSLEY AZUH

DEMOCRACY; the government of the people by the people and for the people is no doubt the system of government that is invoke the world over. The reasons for this are not far-fetched as its dividends are felt anywhere the system is properly practiced to the advantage of the people. Nigeria dumped military dictatorship for democracy because of the results and development that are evidenced in those countries that have been practicing it for ages.
Countries of the world have accepted that democracy is the only way to guaranty rapid economic development, freedom and socio-political advancement in every aspect of life. No wonder, military government which is an aberration is seen as anti-development, and brings about socio-economic retrogression.
The problem with Nigeria democracy is that the masses who expected great economic prosperity, improvement in social services, adequate security and provision of social infrastructures are today disappointed in the system.
They expected the dividends of democracy to envelope and remove them from abject poverty and deprivation. The absence of the dividends of democracy gives room for agitation for a change of either the operators of the system or the system entirely. It is not surprising therefore that innocent Nigerians had on one occasion or the other welcomed military coups because of the failure of the operators of democracy to deliver the dividends to them.
Today, Nigeria has enjoyed an uninterrupted sixteen years of democracy which to many, is a thing of joy. Within these years, some politicians who understand what democracy is all about have made positive impact on the lives of their people. For the people in this category, their people follow them wherever they go and they abide by their words. On the other hand, some politicians are still taking the business of governance for granted. The dividends of democracy meant nothing to them and the plights of the people are not in their political dictionary.
The beauty of democracy is that there is always a time for pay back. Although, some would argue that they do not need the people’s votes because they believe they can always have their ways through rigging, but they have forgotten that Nigerians, for the past sixteen years are learning fast and very soon it would not be business as usual.
This beauty of democracy stems from the realization that there is room for opposition and opposition strives and develops where those in power fail in its responsibility to better the lives of the people.
One thing is very clear and un-arguable; the masses are not asking for too much. Just the basic things of life, health facilities, good roads, schools and empowerment for the rural people to enable them meet their daily needs. When the masses see some of these things in their environment, they run away from the opposing party.This is the secret behind every successful politician. Politicians who do not deliver the dividends of democracy to their people fade away so quickly and easily, and they attract opposition in their political environment. The masses are becoming wiser on every passing day, and are ready to confront politicians that are self-centred by withdrawing their support to such politicians. This is one of the beauties of democracy. The money such politicians are using for self-aggrandisement belongs to all, so when he fails in his assignment he should be ready to lose the position to another opponent or political party.
The local government election was held throughout the state on Saturday, October 25, 2014, and in most parts of the state the beauty of democracy was seen and demonstrated.
Before the election, there was this notion and rumour that the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP had already written the results and were just waiting for the Election Day to announce the cooked results.
The people were just taking cues from what happened in some other states where the party in power took every available chairmanship and councillorship seats. But Delta State has proved that the finger of God is actually controlling the affairs of the state. The elections in the areas we monitored were generally peaceful, free and fair.
Some of us monitored the election in the Isoko areas of the State. The political development in Isoko land is not new to any practising journalist in the state. Looking at the statistics from the time of Chief James OnanefeIbori to the first tenure of Dr. Emmanuel EwetaUduaghan, one would agree that a lot of political metamorphosis have taken place in the politics of the Isoko nation.
Without fear of contradiction and resting on my professional qualified privilege, I am bold to say that in those past years, opposition held sway in Isoko land politics. It was as if the people were dis-enchanted by the leadership styles of their former leaders. In fact, it was like there were no leaders to direct the political class on good deeds. It was like everybody was saying ‘’to your tents all Israel.’’
The coming of Comrade Ovuozourie Samuel Macaulay into the political mathematics brought a radical political re-arrangement to the political theatre of Isoko political engineering.
Comrade Macaulay was able to organise and re-organise the Isoko political class into a formidable political think-tank that has today transformed the entire Isoko land into a political haven of some sort.
He did it in such a way that the political class saw themselves as servants of the people who must give accounts of their stewardship to the people. This single act changed the political equation in Isoko land; the people were empowered through different empowerment programmes, and Macaulay through his foundation for the less privileged and the Elona Development Foundation gave educational and medical succour to the less privileged in Isoko land and beyond.
This single political engineering and sagacity has begotten many children for the People’s Democratic Party in Isoko land. Majority of the people no longer see the need for opposition since they have gotten and are still getting the dividends of democracy.
The local government election in Isoko land was so peaceful that one begins to wonder if other political parties still exist in the area. The people interviewed were quick to say that through the instrumentality of Macaulay the PDP has performed creditably and therefore there is no reason to consider other political parties.
From what we saw in Isoko land, PDP is sure to capture all the units in the two local government areas, especially in Isoko North where we did most of our monitoring.
When the results are released, we know that there must be areas where the opposition must have gotten upper hand. The reasons may not be far-fetched; the political leaders in those areas may not have delivered the dividends of democracy to the people or they must have filed in unpopular candidates.
For Nigerian politicians to continue to be relevant in the unfolding political scenario, they must borrow a leaf from Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay who has through a well-defined political calculation brought the dividends of democracy to his people, and through that single act, eliminated opposition in the Isoko nation.

The Secretary to the Delta State Government, SSG, Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay, Commend the ongoing local government election exercise across the 25 local government area of Delta State.

Comrade Macaulay, made the commendation in Owhelogbo his hometown after casting his vote at Ward 1, unit 4, polling station located opposite the daily market of Owhelogbo, in Isoko North Local Government, the SSG said the large turn out of voters is an indication that the people appreciates what the Delta State Government is doing in developing their community, also judging from my own local Government their is calmness and orderly ness in the exercise which indicates that the exercise is totally peaceful in all parts of the State. He said.

After moving round different wards/units in the LGA, The SSG commended the people of the Local Government for being calm with the exercise and expressed satisfaction that all was peaceful and will be ending well.

Commenting about the exercise in Isoko North, Comrade Macaulay, said I have not received report of disruption from any part of the local government since the commencement of the exercise.

He also expressed satisfaction on the huge turn out of voters for the exercise and urged the people of the state to remain peaceful while performing their voting right in their various polling unit. He also commended the effort of the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSEIC) and other agencies for the arrangement put in place.

…In Asaba For Governor’s 60th Birthday Lecture
The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III has commended Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan for promoting inter-ethnic and religious harmony in the country.
Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, who is in Asaba to chair a lecture on “Anger Management” being organised to mark the Governor’s 60th birthday in Asaba, made the observation when he paid a courtesy call on Dr. Uduaghan at the Government House yesterday.
He described Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan as a trail-blazer in engaging in actions that unite Nigerians despite their ethnic and religious persuasions.
“I am in Asaba to take part in the discussion on issues affecting our nation. We should thank the Governor for thinking in that direction, we should continue to talk, if we want the country to be great, we should close ranks.
“To find solution to Nigeria’s problem, we must come together and talk to one another. The more we talk to one another, the more we understand one another; I believe strongly in the application of dialogue to settling all issues”, reiterating, “we must continue to look at ourselves as one and, as the two major religions in the country preach, we must love one another”.
He observed that peaceful co-existence and harmony could only be achieved by Nigerians in engaging themselves in frank dialogue rather than relying on persons that do not understand the cultural, religious and ethnic colouration of the country.
The Sultan stressed, “we must come together to fight our common enemy because disease does not know religion or tribe, just like poverty.
“We are Nigerians by virtue of God’s creation, we must continue to look at ourselves as brothers, love one another as we are created by one God despite our different tribes and religion”.
Governor Uduaghan thanked the Sultan for coming to Delta State for the lecture and described the Sultan as a bridge builder who believed in the unity of Nigeria”.
“Since you assumed the throne of your forefathers as the Sultan, you have been one of the greatest Ambassadors of peace in Nigeria, you have moved across this country and beyond preaching peace.
“I know that God will reward your efforts to give us peace in Nigeria and I want to assure you that Delta State will continue to partner with you in bringing peace to Nigeria”, the Governor said, adding that his administration would continue to engage in actions that would unite Nigerians.

The Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG), Comrade Ovuozuorie Macaulay, has called on Isoko people to remain united and sustain their support for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), in their Various wards and unit.

The SSG made the call while addressing over 500 beneficiaries of various empowerment programmes of the state government and those of us in government during an enlarged meeting at, Asaba.

Comrade Macaulay disclosed that himself, Hon Leo Ogor, Hon Timi Owhefere and Dr. Patrick Ferife took it as a responsibility in the past four years to empower some persons in the form of monthly salaries to enhance their living conditions.

“The over 500 people which include youths and women you see in this hall today are people who are either benefitting from state government empowerment programmes or those directly benefitting from us”, he said.

He equally advised the people not to relent in their support for the present administration, adding that they should also ensure victory of PDP at the forthcoming local government elections in the State.

The beneficiaries and other PDP leaders and supporters while commending the SSG and his team for their benevolence, passed a vote of confidence on Comrade Macaulay, SSG, endorse Hon Leo Ogor and Hon Tim Owhefere for re-election and commend them for their effective representation, assuring of their resolution to return them to the House Reps and Assembly in 2015.

In an Interview, Hon Leo Ogor and Hon Tim Owhefere commended the people for their support over the years and the vote of confidence passed on them, assuring that they would continue to deliver the dividend of democracy to them via effective and purposeful representation.

By Sam Akadoro / Special Correspondent, Sapele

Currently the Songhai Delta at Amukpe located in Sapele local government council, Sapele Delta State, is bouncing back to life, courtesy of the Delta State government. Established by the former Governor James Ibori administration, the farm cum hospitality industry had been degenerating for some years until the intervention of the state’s Deputy Governor Amos Utuama, who convinced Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan that revamping the Songhai farm, would contribute to the realisation of the “Delta Without Oil” vision.

When Utuama visited the agro-based industry recently, he expressed satisfaction to the managers of the facility for their professional handling of the farm. He inspected all the production units to ascertain that the production of agricultural products was being done efficiently.

Speaking at the event, the deputy governor said. “The Songhai Delta was established by the former governor of Delta State, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, for the purpose of creating employment for Delta State youths and thereby alleviating poverty among our people and also imparting our youths with skills in different departments of agriculture and by so doing you create a crop of leaders trained and disciplined youth in enterprises in agriculture and agriculture related skills. It is also to provide training in food storage.”

Speaking further, Utuama stated that when the present administration took over leadership in the state, the company’s fortunes were nose-diving and it was unable to carry out its mission.

“I decided to tell the governor, His Excellency Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, that something has to be done about the fortunes of the farm so that the government policy of Delta Beyond Oil will be achieved. Then the company was saddled with debt, indiscipline, and nothing seemed to work,” the deputy governor said.

He added that he remained undaunted and discussed the issue again with the governor that the farm they inherited must not be allowed to die.

He stated that the governor agreed with him that they must revamp the farm. He said the decision to revamp the farm reminded him of Dr. Theophilus Okpidi, adding that the governor directed him to get Okpidi to come so that he can discuss the modality of revamping the Songhai Delta with him. He said that when Okpidi came, he showed so much knowledge and enthusiasm on how to turn the farm around and he was engaged as an executive consultant to the company.

According to the Deputy Governor, “ Today we have come to witness the turn around of the Songhai-Amukpe; it is a complete turn around from what I can see, from the physical environment to the different units, one can say that Songhai Amukpe has come to occupy its proper place as a driver of the socio-economic programme of Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, the governor of Delta State.”

He added that the oil revenue should be used to develop the non-oil sectors of the economy, create employment for our youths and create wealth for all.

“ Today” he said, “ I can see the great Nigerian students, its not everyone of you that has this opportunity to be at Songhai Amukpe. If you position yourself well with the present opportunity, you will be part of the great story of Songhai Delta Amukpe. Nobody starts from the top, everybody starts from the button.”

He added that, “ Let us thank our executive consultant in a special way because without him we cannot be where we are today, so I immensely thank you and your management for your effort on behalf of the governor. I also use this opportunity to thank the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom whose domain the Songhai is located, also for our Lord Bishop for their prayer for the revival of the farm.”

In his speech, the executive consultant of the Songhai Delta Amukpe said, “We give God the glory for making the visit a reality. Songhai Delta Amukpe is an integrated agro-based company whose vision is aimed at production, poverty alleviation, incorporating an incubator of skills acquisition, leadership and entrepreneurial training, backed by strong philosophy of discipline and appreciation of the dignity of labour.”

He expressed gratitude for being called upon to serve as the executive consultant, adding that though its a highly cherished honour, it has been a great challenge. He said that patriotism has compelled him to embrace the challenge in order to share in the passions of the people of Delta State and more importantly to key into the giant strides of the Uduaghan administration to move Delta Beyond Oil. He said that the relevance of agriculture in the above agenda couldn’t be overemphasized.

Okpidi continued, “ As a farmer, a villager and first class rubber tapper, I am not good at long speeches. The onus is for you to judge our performance so far having gone round our facilities and seen our products.”

The executive consultant was full of gratitude and commendations to governor. Uduaghan and Deputy Governor Utuama and for their encouragement and timely release of funds for revamping the programme. He commended the immense contributions of Professor. Patrick Muoboghare and Hon. Michael Diden, Mr. J. Morka. He thanked His Grace Archbishop God-do-well Avwomakpa and the Anglican Bishops of Warri and Sapele Diocese Rt. Rev. Christian Ide and Rt. Rev. Blessing Erifeta. Others he thanked included His Royal Majesty, Orhue I, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Chief Peter Asagba, the district head of Amukpe community, Hon. Harrison Ekeleme, the president-general of Ovwore community, Mr. Emmanuel Atika, others were Mr. Austin Oghoro, Secretary Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Dr. Paul Okumagba and former chairman of the Board of Directors Engr. James B. Erhuero and his team and the management and staff of the company.

Some dignitaries that graced the ceremony included Chief Henry Ofa, a Commissioner of DESOPADEC, Chief Joe Omene, Acting President General of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), Hon. Austin Ayemidejor the Special Project Adviser Asaba Airport, Asaba, Chief Peter Asagba, the District Head of Amukpe, who represented the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom.

The commissioner representing Ndokwa Nation, Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission, DESOPADEC, Sir Kenny Okolugbo, has commended Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s administration’s success in security, human capital and infrastructural development.

Making the commendation while presenting a 14-seater Hiace bus to Ndokwa West Host Communities of Oil and Gas, HOSTCOM, Okolugbo pointed out that those in Ndokwa West were benefiting from the governor’s three-point agenda because of his peace initiative.

He said: “Without peace there cannot be security, human capital and infrastructural development. Whatever you are enjoying today is as a result of peace created as part of the three-point agenda of the Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan.”

After the presentation of the bus, Okolugbo and his team went on an inspection tour of ongoing projects at Ogume and Obiaruku.

They include three blocks of classroom at Ogume Model Secondary School; reconstruction of two classroom blocks at Ezedogume Primary School; construction of Ogume Main Market and construction of cottage hospital at Ogume, among others.

By Gab Ejuwa

GENERAL Secretary of Egbema Gbaramatu Communities Development Foundation, Jude Ukori has said that the victory of Amaju Pinnick as Nigeria Football Federation President was as a result of Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan’s strides in sport.

Ukori who made this known in a statement in Koko, Warri North Local Government Area, Delta state, yesterday said the victory of Amaju Pinnick as NFF boss was as a result of the several victories of Deltans in the various sports competitions they have taken part in.

He said, “almost all the games participated by Deltans, including national sport festival, the excellent performance of Blessing Okagbare in the Commonwealth Games, among others were all by the efforts of the Governor.

“There is no doubt, the election of Mr. Pinnick as NFF boss is a continuation of Delta’s supremacy in sports”.

He noted that the Delta State Sports Commission under Amaju’s leadership, has made the state to retained, as well as improve on its dominance of sports in the country.

“Amaju has shown traits of commitment, resourcefulness, dedication and leadership right from when he joined the DFA (Delta Football Association) as a member and later as chairman of the Association up to when he emerged as the chairman of the State Sports Commission”, he added.

REPRIEVE has come the way of a 77-year-old man, Mr. Dickson Umukoro seven years after he was sentenced to death and two others as Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, granted them state pardon in commemoration of the nation’s 54th independence anniversary.
Those released by the governor along with Umukoro is a 53-year-old Monday Tom and an unnamed adolescent.
Before their release, Umukoro was convicted of murder and sentenced to death in 2007 but later had his sentence commuted to life imprisonment in 2010, while Tom had spent 17 years in jail following his conviction for murder and sentenced to death on October 19, 2005.
Their release, which came at the weekend, followed the governor’s prerogative powers to grant state pardon as contained in Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution.
Also affected by the governor’s gesture are Chijioke Edeh, Augustine Okoroh and Joshua Musa, whose death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment while Dele Mokwunye, Ufuoma Paul Eto, Moses Orakpor, Uche Dike, Jonathan Igbi and Chukwuemeka Igwebuike are to serve between 10 and 15 years jail terms.
Describing the governor’s gesture as rare, Delta State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Charles Ajuyah (SAN), said the exercise was as a result of Uduaghan’s prerogative powers as enshrined in the constitution.
Ajuyah said: “The governor acted pursuant to his power of prerogative of mercy and in the spirit of the celebration of Nigeria’s 54th independence anniversary. Those who benefited are: Dickson Umukoro, a 77 year-old man convicted on the offence of murder in 2007 but later had his sentence commuted to life imprisonment in 2010. He was granted pardon and ordered to be released on the grounds of age, health challenge and good conduct in prison.

“Also, Monday Tom, aged 53, was convicted for the offence of murder and sentenced to death on October 19, 2005. He is pardoned and to be released on the grounds of health challenge, and having spent over 17 years in jail with good conduct and a young man whose true name is withheld by reason of his age, has been detained by an order of court in 2009 as he was then under 17 years of age when the offence was committed. The prison authorities have been advised appropriately in the warrant of the pardon signed by His Excellency”.
“Others who benefited from His Excellency’s exercise of prerogative of mercy are Dele Mokwunye, Ufuoma Paul Eto and Moses Orakpor whose sentences were commuted to 15 years each while Uche Dike, Jonathan Igbi and Chukwuemeka Igwebuike’s sentences were commuted to 10 years each.
“Three other inmates, Chijioke Edeh, Augustine Okoroh and Joshua Musa, had their death sentences commuted to life imprisonment.