The convener of Owan/Akoko-Edo Alliance, Mr Sunny Ifijen has attributed the political marginalization of the area by successive government of the state as reason for underdevelopment of the three Local Government Areas in Edo North senatorial district of the state.

Ifijen alleged that successive government completely allaniated the council areas in terms of key appointments at both federal and state levels since the current democratic dispensation.

Ifijen made this known in a statement he signed with his secretary, Mr Ogumah Omeiza and made available to newsmen on Monday.

He further said that the two Owan and Akoko-Edo were also not reckoned with in terms of distribution of infrastructural and developmental projects from both state and national governments.

He said such was the case that the three council areas were now seen as second class citizens of the state in the senatorial district.

Ifijen noted that the 2024 governorship election in the state has presented itself for the two Owan and Akoko-Edo to speak with one voice in pursuance of their common cause.

"Owan and Akoko-Edo have become a common political toy to be used by every politicians in every election years only to be discarded thereafter.

"It is funny that since 1999, the highest federal appointment the area has ever gotten in terms of political partronage was Special Adviser to the then President Olusegun Obasanjo in the person of Prof. Julius Ihonvbere.

"Every successive government in the state had always cornered all the key federal appointments to the areas, especially the three Etsako that is part of the Edo North senatorial district.

"This is the same situation with any developmental projects to the zone that always end up in Etsako.

"Even at the sae level, our people also have suffered similar fate.

"Adams Oshiomhole whom we relied on to be the one to stop this seeming marginalisation became the harbinger of the worst to come.

"Every opportunity he had as the national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and subsequently national leader of the party, he used to allaniate Owan and Akoko-Edo.

"Etsako had in two succession produced two Ministers courtesy Oshiomhole. This is aside numerous other key appointments he attracted to the three Etsako.

"We just had a momentary recognition through the Godwin Obaseki led administration who had selected two of our sons as Speaker of the state House of Assembly as well as the Deputy Governor of the state.

"I still consider this a momentary vcitory because we all know that the appointment of the Deputy Governor was as a result of the impeachment of the former."

Ifijen urged Owan and Akoko-Edo to take their destiny in their hands by election a governor who will change the narrative.

"We can only do this by being united and speak with one voice come September 21.

The Cross River State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr Pius Edet, has refuted reports credited to him alleging that the immediate-past governor, Prof Ben Ayade, left empty treasury and dilapidated infrastructure.

Edet, who spoke with journalists on Friday concerning activities of his ministry and the ongoing road rehabilitation and constructions in Calabar, said, “There was no time in the course of my press briefing that I made reference to former Governor Ben Ayade or his administration.

“I had made it clear to reporters that His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu was committed to giving the state capital a face-lift, despite paucity of funds, because Calabar remains the face of Cross River as well as Nigeria’s tourism hub.”

The Works Commissioner said he could not have spoken about the financial situation of the state “when I am neither the Commissioner of Finance, the Commissioner for Information nor the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity.

“I must state very clearly that I have a lot of respect for the former governor, Prof Ben Ayade, who made me a commissioner during the final year of his administration.

“I still owe him a debt of gratitude, even as he remains one of my benefactors.”

Edet continued, “The report was totally untrue and a deliberate act of mischief. For iteration and for emphasis, I did not say what was wrongly imputed to me in the news report about the former governor and his administration.

“If anything, I was also part of that administration.

“It is imperative, therefore, to clarify and state that at no point did I mention the former governor’s name or refer to the state’s treasury.

“My remarks during the interview were strictly on matters pertaining to my ministry, where I revealed the dire financial challenges the ministry was facing , owing to the general economic crunch in the country.

“As Commissioner for Works, I am not competent to speak on the financial status of the state or its treasury.”

Edet maintained that “the attempt to tar the past administration of Governor Ben Ayade, under which I served as Commissioner for Technology, is ostensibly aimed at sowing a seed of discord between the former governor and his successor, Senator Bassey Otu.

“It is outright mischief and we condemn such actions in the strongest possible terms.”

While urging that the report be disregarded, Edet said he remains committed to assisting Governor Bassey Otu provide quality infrastructural development to the people of the state.

The Catholic Bishop of Ogoja Diocese, Most Rev'd Donatus Akpan, has urged politicians to prioritise the wellbeing of their constituents above their personal interests.

Speaking in his homily from the book of John 20:1-9, at the Thanksgiving Mass of Sen. Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, the Bishop also emphasised the importance of acquiring daily bread legitimately and not through fraudulent means.

The Thanksgiving Mass which took placed at St. Bennedict's Cathedral in Igoli-Ogoja, Cross River, Akpan called on Nigerians, particularly politicians, to uphold truth and honesty in their endeavors.

Addressing the congregation, Akpan highlighted the significance of integrity in public service.

He urged politicians to stay true to their calling, reminding them that only those who shunned the truth would avoid associating with individuals of integrity.

The Bishop emphasized that when Nigerians align themselves with the truth, progress is inevitable.

Akpan also cautioned politicians against the temptation to engage in fraudulent activities or deceive the public they serve.

He advised against harboring thoughts of intimidation or defrauding others

"The office you hold should not be a medium for personal gain or abuse of power but a means to better then lives of your people.

"When people enmass wealth and overlook the plight of the people around them, they are not Godly and not worthy to be called human.

"Politicians must remain focused on their responsibilities, celebrating their achievements would be meaningless if they failed to fulfill their duty to serve the public selflessly.

"Politicians must not disappoint God by disregarding the needs of their people," he stated.

The Bishop celebrated the Cross River North Senator's character, describing him as a real "human being."

The Bishop hailed Jarigbe's authenticity, urging him to remain concerned about the welfare of his people.

In his address, Jarigbe said he will continue to attract developmental projects to the senatorial district and also make laws that will better the lives of his people.

"What i have so far done for my people is a little compared to what is coming," he said.

Present at the Thanksgiving Mass includes: Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo and the Senator representing Rivers South East senatorial district and chairman, Senate committee on Works, Sen. Mpigi Barinada and member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal constituency, Chief Peter Akpanke.

Others are Offiono Francis, representative of Ogoja/Yala federal constituency, Cross River, the state's PDP Chairman, Venatius Ikem, former Cross River Deputy Governor, Efiok Cobham among others.

Cameron runners have been listed to be part of the 250 athletes that would participate in the second edition of the 14km Calabar Marathon scheduled for Saturday.

Chairman of the organising commitee, Ekpenyong Ojoi made he disclosure in an interview with newsmen Calabar on Thursday.

He said the event will feature the best of marathon runners from across the country who will slug it out with their foreign counterpart.

Ojoi who doubles as the Director of Cross River State Tourism Bureau, said though only Cameroon had indicated interest to be part of the race as at Tuesday, more were expected to be part of it before the close of entry.

Hr said that the marathon is being packaged by the Tourism Bureau in partnership with the Calabar Marathon Foundation.

Explaining the government's intention behind the race, "Ojoi said, "It is an avenue for youths to exhibit natural talent and divert attention from negative tendencies.

"The Calabar Marathon is one of the key initiatives endorsed by Governor Bassey Otu as a strategic step to take our youths from the streets.

" You would agree with me that idleness breeds mischief, criminality, drug abuse, cultism, and other vices inimical to the well-being of our youths and the society at large."

The Managing Director of Benin Owena River Basin Development Authority, Engr Saliu Ahmed says the River Basin is on course to providing water to over 10 million population in its catchment area of Ondo, Delta and Ondo states.

Ahmed however said that this can be made easier and quicker with the effective collaboration and support of individuals and corporate organisations.

The BORBDA boss stated this while inaugurating water projects at Idumuangue, Uwalor and Ubierumu communities of Uromi in Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo state on Friday.

The inauguration of the projects was part of the activities lined up by the authority to mark this year’s World Water Day with the theme: "Water for Peace."

He stated that the authority has diligently undertaken initiatives to ensure the availability of groundwater, particularly in rural areas in Ondo, Edo and Delta states.

He said that it is important not to recognise water as merely a contested resource but as a fundamental human right.

Ahmed noted that by balancing the rights and needs of all individuals, water can serve as a unifying force.

He also said that with the challenges posed by climate change and population growth, water have assumed an increasingly pivotal role in poverty alleviation and environmental preservation.

He therfore called for action to strengthen collaboration and ensure the equitable management of water resources.

According to him, "Cooperation in water management not only enhances resilience against extreme weather events but also facilitates adaptation to a changing climate.

"The impact of water extends beyond environmental considerations, encompassing public health, economic productivity, and societal equality.

"By upholding non-discrimination and equality in access to water and sanitation, we caninstigate a positive ripple effect throughout society."

At the local and national levels, he said diverse water users, including water and sanitation utilities, energy, food, and industry sectors, must collaborate through an integrated water resources management approach.

He said this collaboration should aim to promote a circular economy that upholds people's human rights, ensuring equitable access to water and sanitation.

Speaking on a broader scale, Ahmed said countries within shared river basins must forge agreements and establish institutions to peacefully manage water resources that traverse international borders.

"Cooperation on transboundary waters is indispensable for fostering peace and prosperity, necessitating bilateral, regional, or global government collaboration.

"It is critical, that we acknowledge water not only as a resource to be utilized and contested but also as a fundamental human right that is essential for all aspects of life," he stated.

Speaking on this year’s theme, "Water for Peace," the BORBDA Managing Director said it underscores the critical role of water in fostering harmony and stability.

According to him, the campaign, aptly named “Water for Peace," emphasizes the transformative power of water in promoting cooperation and averting conflict.

"The significance of water in shaping peace and conflict cannot be overstated. Scarce or polluted water, as well as unequal or limited access, can lead to tensions between communities and nations.

"In light of this, we must unite to protect and conserve this invaluable resource, particularly as climate change continues to exert its influence."

Meanwhile, Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo says the government will continue to partner with federal government through the BORBDA to provide portable water for the people

Represented at the occasion by the state Commissioner for Water Resources, Mr Asi Jubril, however noted that the state is blessed with abundant water resources, from rivers and streams to groundwater reserves.

"However, we also face challenges, including pollution, over extraction, and inadequate infrastructure, which jeopardize the sustainability of our water supply," he said.

Some stakeholders in the campaign against Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) have called for stringent policy measures to tackle the menace.

The stakeholders spoke at a one-day step-down training programme on sexual exploitation, abuse and harassments in Calabar on Wednesday.

They said that it had become crucial to take decisive steps towards tackling sexual and gender based violence.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health in Cross River, Dr Iwara Iwara, said that SGBV could result in severe health challenges for survivors.

Represented by the Gender Focal Officer in the Ministry, Mrs Felicia Ayim, Iwara called for effective stakeholders collaboration to tackle the challenges of SGBV.

He said that the essence of the workshop was to raise more awareness on the need for government to collaborate with other stakeholders in the campaign against the menace.

The Guest Lecturer, Mercy Ejini, stated that the fight against sexual exploitation and harassment should be taken seriously by stakeholders.

”It is our collective duty to fight this menace. It does not do the society any good,” she said.
Also speaking, Deborah Asuquo, of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, called for more proactive enlightenment campaigns to educate the citizenry about extant legal tools on SGBV.

She urged members of the public to report cases of SGBV to the federation or law enforcement agencies for actions.

Participants at the workshop were drawn from civic society groups, religious organisations and  traditional institutions among others.

Ahead of Saturday's governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo, women support group under the aegis of Edo Women In Diaspora (EWID) have began mobilization of women for the former Minister of Budget and National Planning, Prince Clem Agba.

This is contained in a statement by the conveners, Barr Roseline Odiye, and Dr Mercy Grant, and made available to newsmen in Benin.

Odiye said the group took it as a responsibility to mobilise for the former Minister in order for the state and the people to enjoy good governance when the Minister is elected as Governor.

She appealed to the women and the entire citizenry to avoid the mistake of the past where a misfit person was elected governor.

She said the mistake that remain an albatross, was caused largely by the people who remained indifferent on whom to govern them.

She called on the people, particularly the women, not to sit on the fence this time by coming out to decide, without coercion, who their governor will be.

According to her, "we, especially the card-carrying members of the APC, must know that the journey begins on Saturday with the primaries.

"We, EIWD, is calling on the people, especially the women to come out en masse to caste our votes to the rightful person to fly the party's flag.

"This time, we must not be swayed wlby money or cups of rice to vote against our conscience, we must not be told by few individuals who claim to be our leaders, to vote for their preferred candidate.

"This time, we should caste our votes for someone who have shown capacity and have a track record of performance in public office."

Odiye appealed to the people to entrust their votes to Agba whose public record as a Commissioner and Minister remained an "eye mark and not ear mark."

"Agba didn't only just performed as a Commissioner and Minister, he also has an unblemished record of performance in the private sector.

"Let's not be deceived with rhetoric, Agba remains the man to beat and the person who can deliver the desired good governance that the people and the state desperately need now," she stated.











Going All the Way: I Have Not and Will Not Withdraw
Good day, my fair and committed members of the APC in Edo State; it has come to my
attention that ahead of the primaries of our great party, which is scheduled for Saturday, 17th
February 2024, some mischievous elements are spreading baseless rumours of my withdrawal
from the primaries. My APC family, I would like to explicitly state that I have not withdrawn
from the race and will at no point withdraw or step down for any aspirant. I and my supporters
are going all the way to the end; we are in this to win.
Over the last few months, I have transversed the length and breadth of our state, visiting you
in your various local governments and wards to canvass your support for my aspiration.
During these visits and interactions, I articulated, in practical terms, how I intend to use my
many years of private and public sector experiences to re-engineer the governance process in
Edo State with my TRUST Initiative, which is carefully designed to Transform our Rural and
Urban Spaces Together.
Without a shadow of a doubt, our dear state has been run aground in the past seven and half
years under the current administration. It is in a dire state of disrepair where every facet of
development has completely broken down and become moribund. This can not be allowed to
continue.
At this critical juncture, therefore, our state needs a tested hand, a capable hand, a competent
hand, an untainted hand, and a loyal hand to take us back to the path of development and
prosperity.
With all sense of humility, I am the candidate the opposition parties fear the most in the
forthcoming governorship election because, I possess the best capacity among the pack to
defeat their presumptive candidates.

*Wants support for Clem Agba

A group under the aegis of Edo Women In Diaspora (EWID) has identified the major challenge in Edo currently as that of multi-dimensional poverty.

The convener of the group, Mrs Roseline decried the state of education, roads infrastructure, access to capital and basic healthcare among others as one that needs urgent intervention.

In a statement by the convener made available to the newsmen in Abuja, the EWID further said that less than four percent of the state roads are motorable.

She therefore called on the people to ensure that the forthcoming governorship election in the is used to right the wrong.

According to the statement, "It is time for us to be wise. We can't afford to make another mistake; once bitten, never to be bitten again.

"At this time, we need a God sent as a governor, someone that is willingly and ready to take up the mantle and work for the people.

"We need someone that we see the governorship position as a call to service and not an occupation.

"We need someone who will wipe out the multi-dimensional poverty in the state; someone that can attract foreign investors to the state and will govern on and govern real.

"The state is in dare need of a governor believes that Edo state is one and will unit the fragmented people.

"We are tired of electing hungry people, we are tired of electing men with intellectual deficiency. We can't afford to do this anymore."

The group however called for the people to support the immediate past Minister of Budget and National Planning, Mr Clem Agba for the position in consideration of his past records as a minister and Commissioner.

"We truly desired a man like Agba who as a minister attaches so many projects across the 18 council areas of the state.

"We believe that his TRUST agenda will open up rural and urban spaces together," it stated.

Mrs Orobosa Agba, the wife of the Governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo stated has pledged that welfare of children, youths and women will be prioritised if her husband is elected governor come September.

She made the pledge at her yearly children party in Uzanu, Etsako East Local Government Area of the state where she feted hundreds of the children.

Supported at the party by the Convener of Edo Women In Diaspora (EWID), Barr. Roseline Odiye and Mrs Simon Ogie, the APC aspirant spouse said Agba plan to adopt top-bottom approach in ensuring total transformation of the state, including that of children and youths wellbeing.

She said the disparity between children of the poor and that of the rich will be bridged through massive improvement in the standard of learning and teaching in public schools across the state.

While noting that the youths will be productively engaged to curb youth restiveness, she said women will be empowered to caretaker for their families as well as contribute their quota to the economy development of the state.

According to her, "These (Children and Youths) forms the major segment of the population of Edo state and deliberate efforts must be made to prioritise their welfare and anything that concerns their wellbeing if the state is to witness peace, progress and development.

"This is why Prince Clem Agba (PCA) campaign have a blue print already developed centered around children and youths wlefare in addition to women empowerment.

"Over the years, without being in government, we have remained committed to the empowerment of women an youths across various communities, so also have we been concerned with that of children.

"We will be taking it a step further when we are in government by committing much resources to this priority areas: children, youths and women.

"We plan to redudce drastically, the number of out of school children and also ensure welfare of those in school are well taking care of.

The Nigerian Navy has harped on effective leadership and competence on the part of its ratings and officers to promote national development.

The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Eastern Naval Command (ENC), Rear Admiral Olusola Oluwagbire made the call on Wednesday in Calabar at the command's leadership 101 seminar.

Represented by the Chief Staff Officer of the ENC, Rear Admiral Abdul-Rasheed Haruna, the FOC noted that the right leadership is needed for the Navy to discharge it responsibility of protecting the nation's territorial waters.

He said that the seminar is aimed to equip the officers with the skills set that will enable them discharge their responsibilities effectively and efficiently as leaders. 

He said their roles as leaders often entails quick planning as well as making swift and well-informed decisions with available resources under extreme conditions.

"It is against this backdrop, that the theme of this Seminar: “Optimizing Leadership and Operational Readiness for National Prosperity” was conceptualised.

"The objective of the Seminar therefore is to highlight the role of leadership in enhancing our collective preparedness in accomplishing our assigned tasks as a Command that will ultimately enable the Nigerian Navy fulfil its constitutional responsibilities towards ensuring economic prosperity of Nigeria," he stated.

Similarly, Commandant of the Navy War College, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, said the seminar can best be appreciated through recognising the relationship that exists between leadership and a secure maritime domain.

He noted that Nigeria’s maritime domain is bedevilled with crimes such as piracy, sea robbery, kidnapping, crude oil theft and illegal oil bunkering as well as illegal unreported and unregulated fishing.

He said these crimes have hindered the ability of the country to effectively explore and manage the resources and opportunities in the sector for its economic prosperity, peace and stability as well as for the benefits of neighbouring countries and regions. 

"The common impact of maritime insecurities on the economic livelihood, prosperity, peace and stability of Nigeria both within and the immediate environment brings to fore the initiation of various collective responses and interventions at national and stakeholders’ levels to tackle the menace.

"This Seminar therefore symbolises a strategic collaborative initiative between the Eastern Naval Command and other maritime stakeholders operating within the Command’s Area of Operation.

"It also presents a potent strategy to espouse measures to mitigate the increasing maritime insecurities in the immediate environment in order to enhance economic development of the country.

"It is on this note that the theme of the seminar is considered apt and timely.

"The theme is well thought out to examine the nexus between Nigeria’s maritime security and socio-economic development in the country, with particular focus on leadership and operational readiness of the Eastern Fleet," he stated.

Speaking on the topic: "Purposeful Leadership: Your Role in the Nigerian Navy's Anti-Crude Oil Theft Efforts" Commodore Adesola Ojo said the Navy has the onerous responsibility to safeguard the nation's main source of revenue.

On her part, Dr Ehizofa Odigie-Okpataku, who spoke on the topic: "The Mind of a Leader" challenged the officers to show effective and efficient leadership at all times.

She further charged the personnel to stive to know happenings beyond their immediate environment.

On the other hand, Rear Admiral Bodunrin Raji (Rtd.), while speaking on the topic: "Leadership: My Perspective" shared his experiences while in service and how effective leadership will help the Nigerian Navy combat crimes and criminalities in the nation’s territorial waters.

The Commandant of the Nigerian Navy War College, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed says the Navy and other sister security agencies are jointly confronting the emerging security challenges in the country.

He however noted that the emerging security challenges such as terrorism, banditry, cultism and Kidnapping amongst others, have aaggregated to expand the responsibilities of the Nigerian Navy beyond its traditional roles.

The Commandant stated this at the inauguration ceremony and inaugural lecture of the Naval Warfare Course 8 in Calabar on Friday.

He noted that this is aside the increasing sophistication of maritime security challenges such as piracy, armed robbery against ships and crude oil theft.

He said these security challenges which, are mostly asymmetric in nature, placed increasing demands on the nation’s resources and response capability that have necessitated the need to continually develop the professional ability of command level officers.

According to him, for the Naval Warfare Course 8, a robust curriculum which includes fifth generation warfare has been developed to sharpen the skills and aptitude of the participants.

"Additionally, the inaugural lecture and the robust will give participants a solid foundation as they journey into the operational level of warfare.

"The College remained poised to producing military strategists, operation planners and war-fighters who can compete effectively with their contemporaries globally.

The Commandant said a total of 24 participants from the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Airforce, and from the Ghana and Guinea-Bissau Navy, will participate in the Naval Warfare Course 8.

The Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Olusola Oluwagbire, said the College was established to develop the critical competences of officers for effective command, managerial and leadership roles at the operational level of warfare.

He said the topic of the lecture, "Operational Level Warfare: Imperatives For Training and Command In The Nigerian Navy" in view of the dynamics in global security challenges.

"It is very important to get the basics of training and command right in order to establish the operational objectives needed to achieve the strategic end state.

"To the participants and our future operational level commanders, it is your responsibility to understand the fast changing complexities of the contemporary security environment in the world generally and in Nigeria in particular.

"You must then situate the Armed Forces within these changes and ask yourself, How do I best function in the face of these challenges?

"This is where the Naval Warfare Course suffices to equip you with the necessary skills needed to plan critically analyse complex security situations, develop robust fail-proof plans and execute them to achieve the strategic directives you will be given from time to time," he stated.

Speaking on the lecture topic, Rear Admiral Murtala Bashir (rtd), called for the optimisation of the operational level of Naval Warfare training.

"With this and the operational level commanders in the Nigerian Navy fully imbibing the appropriate characteristics and understanding of their responsibilities, the service will have a crop of professional officers that will adequately translate strategic directives into precise tactical actions.

"The officers will also be apolitical and more responsive to national security priorities. They will be more efficient in the alignment and use of resources, uphold the law and respect human rights, thereby earning public trust, respect and confidence," he stated.

A new Commander of the NNS VICTORY of the Eastern Naval Command, Calabar, Commodore Rotimi Oderemi has resumed duty with a promise to sustain efforts at ensuring security of the Calabar territorial water ways.

Oderemi made the promise in Calabar on Wednesday during the handing over ceremony by his predecessor, Commodore Vincent Gbaranwi who completed his tour of duty of the Command.

He however called for the collaboration of other sister security agencies for a secured Cross River and beyond.

While commending his predecessor for the successes recorded during his tour of duty at the command, Oderemi said he will sustain and improve on the areas that is necessary.

According to him, "My predecessor has done well and there is no need changing a winning team, we will only consolidate and perhaps, touch on areas we deemed necessary.

"However, because of the security dynamics of the nation, we can all only succeed when there is effective collaboration between other security agencies.

"Let's share ideas and information that will led to a secure Cross River and the country at large. I have no doubt in my mind that Cross River will be secured."

Earlier his address, Gbaranwi had attributed his successes to the support of the officers and men of the NNS VICTORY, the state government, as well as other security agencies in Cross River.

"As the Commander, I recognised and prioritised both personnel and material as the two key pillars driving the Base’s contribution to the Chief of the Naval Staff Strategic Directives.

"I understood that having material without personnel with the right state of mind and attitude would amount to nothing, just as having personnel without the requisite material would lead to inadequate functioning.

"In this context, we placed a high priority on the welfare and well-being of its personnel, maintained elevated standards of military discipline and orientation, and ensured the availability of functional working equipment and facilities.

"This approach resulted in a formidable naval presence in the maritime environment of Cross River State.

"Enabling the execution of several raids on criminal hideouts, prevention of kidnappings and other crimes, and the protection of lives and properties, thereby facilitating uninterrupted maritime activities," he stated.

He appealed for the same support and cooperation that was accorded him to be extended to his successor.

The NNS VICTORY is one of the three operational base of the Eastern Naval Command (ENC).

NNS VICTORY as one of the Type A operational bases under the ENC is charged with the responsibility of policing the territorial waters including the backwaters in order to protect the resources and national installations.

Formerly known as NNS ANANSA, was established in 1975 before it name was changed to NNS VICTORY in 2004.

Within the past years, a total of 50 Commanders has emerged in the Base comprising 25 for NNS ANANSA and 25 for NNS VICTORY.

Notable among the commanders are; Vice Admiral Jubril Ayinla and Vice Admiral Ganiyu Adekeye who both later became the Chief of Naval Staff.

Commodore Gbaranwi who is the 26th Commander and having completed a tour of duty, handed over the Command of the NNS VICTORY to Commodore Rotimi Oderemi.

Yhe handing over was preceeded with a farewell parade for Commodore Gbaranwi.

Mrs Catherine Agba, wife of the immediate past Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Mr Clem Agba, has promised that women will be given prominent roles if her hushand emerge as Edo Governor in 2024.

Represented by Barr. Roseline Odiye, Convener of Edo Women In Diaspora (EWID), Mrs Agba appealed for support from the women across the 192 wards in the 18 Local Government Areas of the state for her husband to actualise his political ambition.

She stated this at the weekend in Benin, during a diaspora awareness of the EWID with women leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the state.

The meeting had in attendance, the state APC woman leader, Mrs Betty Okoebor, and Chairperson for EWID, Dr Mercy Grant, senatorial, Local Government, and wards women leaders across the 18 council areas of the state.

She emphasised that the need to give women prominent roles is due to their capacity to deliver in any given assignment and their compassion to humanity.

Meanwhile, the group, EWID has canvassed support for the nomination and subsequent election of the former Minister for a prosperous Edo state.

The convener of the group, Odiye,
said Agba's candidacy embodies the qualities necessary for effective leadership and development in the state.

While noting that they were not politicians, Odiye said that they were moved to canvass support for the former Minister because of his past records in both public and private offices.

She said that their support will not end at soliciting for votes for him but will go further to mobilise resources to achieve this.

Odiye said the group is out to secure the future of the children and those yet unborn in the state.

According to her, "We are polithinkers and not politicians. We envisage what we want for our children. We will put our heads together to make sure that we get someone that is right for us.

"Clem Agba is the right person who has exemplified leadership in both public and private positions he has held.

"We believe under his leadership as the state governor, women will play important role in the development of our dear state and beyond.

"He also has the capacity to build a better state for us and our children yet unborn."

On her part, Dr Mercy Grant, Chairperson for EIWD, said Agba's nomination would not only boost the APC chances of winning the election, but also ensure the overall development and well-being of the people of the state.

She believe that his expertise and competence makes him the ideal candidate to lead Edo towards progress and prosperity.

"We hope that our plea will be considered and that Agba will emerge as the party's choice for the governorship election in Edo State," she stated.

Simirlarly, the state APC woman leader, Okoebor, said the party parades technocrats and household names for the governorship election slated for 2024.

While eulogising Agba, Okoebor said the former Minister has distinguished himself in various capacity.

She promised to spread the EIWD message to the women various the state.

Prof. Enang Ebinga has advanced the need for the traditional institutions to be included in governance structure to address the challenges of insecurity in the country.

Ebinga who is a professor of Sociology in the department of Sociology at the University of Calabar, stated this on Saturday in Calabar at the occasion of Nkonib Qua Clan 2023 Symposium and Thanksgiving.

Speaking on the topic: "Traditional Institution in the 21st Century: Drivers of Sustainable Development " Ebinga also called for the adaptation of traditional institutions to the 21st century to continue to remain relevant.

He said government must work in partnership with the traditional institutions in order to achieve meaningful development in the country and also to curb insecurity.

He said as the custodian of the traditonal, they must be part and parcel of the plans the government has to propel the nation to 21st century development.

"We can refined our traditional institutions in such a manner that they can be part of the development processes and to do so, their roles should enshrined in the constitution.

"This will give them a sense of belonging and not a mere spectators as they are now. When they see themselves as part of government structure, they will do everything possible to protect their territory and ultimately, this will.lead to crime reduction."

Ebinga further said that working in partnership with the traditional institutions will boost the nation's tourism sector since they (traditonal institutions) are the custodians of tradition and culture.

"With legal backing, traditional institutions who are custodians of artifacts can promote tourism and thus contribute to the growth and development of the society.

Also speaking, Mr Kenneth Ita, Executive Secretary of Calabar Chamber of Commerce and industry, called for the positive utilisation of the power of the youths to exellerate community and national development.

Speaking on the topic: "The Roles and Responsibilities of Youths in Community and National Development" Ita said the youths can play a major role in community development if the necessary platform is provided for them to acquire the needed skills.

"They should be exposed to modern technology to be part of community and national development. Power of the youths must be positively utilised, even beyond skill acquisition to that of values.

"They are also prelude to peace in the community as well as the nation," he stated.

In his address, the clan head of Nkonib, Ntoe Paul Ita, said that the aimed of the Symposium was to promote unity and development in the area.

"It is only when we are united that development can be achieved. In essence, the aim is for our people to be united so that we can progress," he said.

The Eastern Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy has pledged more support to its host communities, especially the riverine communities, as part of its corporate social responsibility.

The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral Olusola Oluwagbire made the pledge on Wednesday during free medical rhapsody at Ine-Utang Day Spring Peninsula in Bakassi Local Government Area.

The FOC who was represented by the Commandant NNS victory, Calabar, Commodore Vincent Gbaranwi, said that the free medical rhapsody is part of the present Chief of Navy Staff to build civil-military relationship.

He said that the choice of Ine-Utang Day Spring Peninsula was deliberate as the community lack health center to attend to their health challenges.

"You can see the level of destitution here and this is what prompted us to come home today for this free medical rhapsody.

"Medical services may not be topmost in their needs right now; you can see that they are struggling to survive. We will continue to do our best for the people as we have started with this," he stated.

Simirlarly, Capt. Dominica Adebayo, Commandant of the Naval Referral Hospital in Calabar, said the exercise was also meant to create awareness on the need for the people to care of themselves.

According to her, "We must know that prevention is better than cure and for that, we will be carrying out test on malaria, eyes, hepatitis B and C screening, Blood sugar check, HIV screening and blood pressure check.

"We are also giving out free glasses, insecticide treated nets and other consumables."

No fewer than 200 persons benefited from the free medical rhapsody which was carried out in conjunction with the Nigerian Naval Referral Hospital, Calabar.

Ine-Utang Day Spring Peninsula is a riverine community that lacked health center, school, water and electricity.

A security expert based in the Netherlands, Prince Martins Sadoh has said that Prince Clem Agba remained the best person to help curb the worsening security in the state if elected governor of Edo state in 2024.

Sadoh while appealing for support towards the nomination and subsequent election of Agba, said Agba will bring to bear his private and public service experiences to address the state security challenges.

He further noted that the former Minister of Budget and National Planning will also make use of his relationship with security experts within and outside the country to address the precarious security situation in Edo state.

According to him, "Agba will have many security experts at his disposal to work with when he is elected governor of Edo state.

"These security experts are people who have over the years became expertise in various security areas across the world.

“I can bet you that people will sleep with their doors open without any fear of robbery or kidnapping under Agba as governor of Edo state.

"He will, working with experts, deploy the best strategy to secure the state."

Sadoh further pointed out that the former Minister will tackle the security challenges in the state through multiple ways.

According to him, Agba will ensure good governance and enhance rule of law as part of the multifaceted ways to address the security situation in the state.

"When people are disenchanted and have not steady means of livelihood; when a state lacks principle of fairness and equity, there is bound to be to security challenge.

"So, Agba government will ensure that the state is ruled on the basic principles of fairness, equity and transparency. Good governance will be the order of the day under Clem Agba,: he stated.

The Cross River chapter of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) on Monday ended eight years of leadership crisis with the election of a new executive.

The election which was monitored by the zonal and National representatives of the association, saw the emergence of Mr Robert Obi as the new chairman in Cross River.

Obi who was sworn in with the other executive of immediately after the election, promised to carry everyone along in the day to day activities of the association.

While acknowledging the challenges of the association in the state, Obi said the new new executives has the capacity to surmount them.

He however called for the support of all to enable the new executive to succeed in their assignment.

According to him, "We are fully aware we have been given a serious mandate and we have the capacity to surmount these challenges.

"We are not going to run a one man business because it's so challenging, we need the support of all to return our business back to where it was.

"We call on all our stakeholders, like the Petroleum Tankers Drivers, Petroleum Station Workers, Independent Marketers Branch and Oil and Gas Workers, not to leave us behind but give us the support they have been giving because what affects one affects the other."

While noting that the 12-man executive will not disappoint, Obi urged those still aggrieved to come back to the fold to build a new IPMAN in Cross River.

In his remarks, the national chairman of IPMAN, Alh. Ahmed Debo said with the election, the crisis that have plagued the state chapter of the association have been addressed.

Represented by Mr Michael Udofia, the national legal adviser of the IPMAN, Debo said the task of the new executive is to make sure that they work together in harmony and reposition their businesses.

He expressed optimism that the new chairman of the Calabar branch has the experience and capacity to lead the branch.

The new twelve-man executive of IPMAN will take charge for three years.

The Federal Government said it planned to cultivate 500,000 hectares of irrigable land for dry season farming as part of effort to boost food security in the country.

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utse made the disclosure in Benin when he flagged off the 2023 dry season farming of the Benin Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA) on Wednesday.

The Minister therefore solicited for the cooperation of state governments and communities to make land available to the 12 Basin Authorities across the federation to boost food production.

Utse declared the readiness of the ministry of water resources to partner with stakeholders to key into the President's pronouncement.

Utse noted that the BORBDA had already commenced the cultivation of about 700 hecters of land for this year's dry season farming.

The Water and Sanitation Minister Noted that with the Clay Pot Irrigation System (CPIS) and Drip irrigation facilities available to the ministry and small holder famers will help to boost all year round farming.

"We are providing the water that is required to our farmers in line with the food security agenda of President Tinubu to try to make food available and affordable to Nigerians.

"I hereby call on other River Basins under the ministry to immediately commence dry season farming across their catchment communities and work with local farmers in accessing water to improve their farming activities.

"We have access to water which is critical to dry season farming, and we have the capacity and technical knowledge to assist local farmers, so I want our farmers to queue into this opportunity in ensuring food security for the country," he stated.

The minister also used the occasion to unvail the Hydrological year book 2021 and 2022 of the Benin Owena River Basin Authority.

According to him, "Hydrological data is necessary in planning, designing, construction and management of water projects.

"It is also important for flood and drought forecasting and construction of flood protection structures, given the persistent flood challenges experienced throughout the country."

In his address, the BORBDA Managing Director, Engr. Saliu Ahmed noted that the Basin Authority has installed Meteorological stations in eight locations.

He also said that 10 rivers gauging stations have been set up to provide accurate data for proper water management.

According to him, "Some of the data obtainable real-time from these stations include: water level, temperature, pressure and discharge flow as well as wind speed, wind direction, barometric pressure, soil temperature, solar radiation and soil conductivity amongst others."

The minister used the occasion to inaugurate the access road of the headquarters of the Basin to facilitate the smooth transportation of goods.

The people of Effi community in Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River have bemaoned the constant harassment of its tradional heads by officers of the state command of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).

The community made this known in a petition by its lawyer, Ichire Okim and made available to newsmen in Calabar on Tuesday.

Okim described the series of invitations extended Effi community traditional rulers by authority of the NIS in the state as uneccessary.

In the petition dated August 30 and titled Re: "National Security Risk Urgent Action Required, Suspicious Entry into Effi Community Forest and the Cross River South Forest Reserve without and Diplomatic and Security Clearance" Okim frowned at the invitations.

"For Christ sake, why are they tossing the the traditional rulers around like a football? These are my clients. I can't sit down fold my arms and watch them toss them around like that.

"Chinese nationals only visited our
community and said that they want something from our community, whether we agree or not is that an issue?

"In the first instance, my clients, Effi community traditional rulers had not even entered into any aggurement with the Chinese nationals, unfortunately this has become a big issue.

"Let me state clearly here that it's because of an inciting and faultfinding letter written by one Odey Oyama to the Immigration authority that is generating so much dust like this," Okim stated.

In the petition, Okim accused Oyama of ploting to distablise the peace and good relation enjoyed among community members home and abroad, claiming that Effi community have right to entertain visitation.

"Nigerian Immigration Service and other relevant Government agencies have done the needful before the foreign nationals gained entry and accused our client.

In his reaction to the issue, Odey, an Executive Director Rain Forest Reserve and Development, said he had no regret about the petition which he sent to the immigration authority and other relevant government agencies.

"All am doing is to protect the Chinese against depleting the forest.

"We have made preparation to set up our timber shade once we get clearance from Forestry Commission. That we will do through forest regeneration," he said.

Meanwhile, the state spokesperson of the NIS, Ms Nora Ajana declined comment on the matter when her reaction was sought.

Mr Peter Akpanke (PDP - Cross River) says that the people and not personal interest, must be the fulcrum for which politicians seek political positions.

Akpanke who represents Obudu/Obanliku/Bekwarra federal constituency in the National Assembly (NASS) stated this on Monday at a special thanksgiving on his electoral victory.

The event which took placed at St. John's Catholic Church in Obanliku, had political actors from both the state and NASS in attendance.

The lawmaker who is the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on FCT Area Council and Ancillary Matters, said he sought for the position to better the lives of his constituents and the state in general.

Akpanke who bemoaned the state of roads across his constituency, said goverment must be seen to work for the benefit of the people whose mandate they enjoy.

"It's a terrible thing what our people are made to suffer from the people who they voted into office to represents their interest and to better their lives.

"You all can see the situation of our roads, especially that of Obanliku roads it is as if we don't have a governor m, especially the immediate past who incidentally hails from this senatorial district.

"While I will continue to draw government attention to the needs of my people, I will however not relent to carryout necessary action that will leads to the improvement in the livelihood of my people.

"It is in this regard that I appealed to political actors to always see and put forward, the interests of the generality of Nigerians, and jettison personal interest as reason for seeking political offices.

"We owe them a duty to provide good governance and not the other way round," stated the lawmaker.

In his speech, Mr Venatius Ikem, Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River, implored Akpanke to replicate his philanthropic gesture by working hard to see to the needs of his constituents.

While noting that the primary duty of a lawmaker if to see to the enthronement of laws that will impact positively on the lives of his constituents and by extension the country, he must also influence meaningful projects to his area.

"I have not doubt that you (Akpanke) will do all that is necessary to better the lives of the people of Obudu/Obanliku/Bekwarra federal constituency," he stated.

After a dogged fight, Chief Anthony Ani, Nigeria's Finance Minister in the Sani Abacha regime seems to have finally cleared his name of the financial mess of that era. WAHEED ODUSILE Reports



BEEING a member of the notoriously corrupt military regime of late General Sani Abacha is not an honour to be proud of. It is also unimaginable to think that there was a saint of that era, who found themselves in the position of leadership. But these are exactly what the Finance Minister of that time, Chief Anthony Ani is claiming and justifiably too.


Vilified by many and called all sorts of names for being the economic manager of a regime, which was later discovered not to be incorruptible, Ani, a chattered accountant , has had to go to through a series of investigations, detentions, legislative inquiries, court cases and even exile, all in a bid to establish his innocence and clear his name.



Hailed as a good choice when he was appointed Finance Minister in 1995. Ani quickly brought his professional expertise to bear on the management of the nation's economy, especially in 1995 and 1996 when he succeeded eliminating the annual budget deficit (N108b in 1994) of 11% GDP to a modest surplus (N37 billion) of 1.5 GDP. The annual growth of the economy moved from negative -1.5% GDP to a positive 3.2% GDP. One of the most remarkable achievements of his tenure , analysts say, was the exchange rate which was N118 to $1 in 1984 but which he stabilised at N85 to $1, thus making long term economic projection and planning by both the government and the private sector easier as well as possible.



The inflation rate, which stood at 88% before he took over also came down to 28% and ultimately 6.5% by May 1998. Also Ani's tenure as Finance Minister saw the lowering of the interest rate which used to be 60% in 1994 to between 16% and 21%. Nigeria's external reserve was also built up from less than one billion ISD in 1994 to $4.1 billion in 1996, while external debt came down from $32.6 billion in 1994 to %28 billion by the end of 1996.



Taking a holistic look at the economy then, all these in addition to some other economic measures, had a positive effect on the economy, although as some would argue, at what and whose expense.



The reputation of General Sani Abacha not withstanding, Ani was able to carve a niche for himself as a good manager of the economy and was so recognised and even hailed in and by the media. The academia also recognised his sound management of the economy, so to speak, that he was conferred with a Honourary Doctorate degree on March 20th 1997 by the University of Uyo.



But all these achievements and sterling qualities soon paled into insignificance shortly after General Abdusalami Abubakar came to power following the sudden death of Abacha. Ani was to be changed and replaced by a former deputy Governor of the Central Bank, Alhaji Ismaila Usman whom he had earlier sent on suspension on the orders of Abacha for alleged complicity in fraud, embezzlement and murder at the CBN. With Usman's appointment trouble began for Ani, especially with the Abubakar regime which seems to have no place for his style of economic management. Even when he discovered a massive fraud committed by Abacha and his advisers on security, under the guise of protection of national security and in spite of his getting the Abacha family to make a refund of US$770 million to the CBN in that regard, General Abubakar still was not comfortable with Ani. And when the information on the recoveries from Abacha's got leaked to the press, Ani's sins multiplied and it became a matter of time before the Federal Government would deal with him. That did not take too long.



After his public disclosures of the recoveries following government's reluctance to do so, Ani got the first public hint when the Chief Press Secretary to Abubakar, Mallam Mohammed Haruna, denied his role in the recoveries and instead accused him of fraudulent involvement in the controversial Gwarimpa Housing Project, but the accusation didn't stick. According to Ani a friend in government telephoned to alert him about plan by security agents to arrest him following his public disclosure of the Abacha recoveries which was embarrassing to the government.



That was on 11th November 1998 and he was in Calabar then. Finally his troubles had begun and he had to go into hiding same day to, according to him,"avoid arrest, detention and possible death." For six days he was in hiding and nothing happened untill 29th December 1998, when he was invited for questioning by the security agencies. He was there untill 31st December, and only secured his freedom after he disclosed that Abacha gave him a cash gift of 30 million Deutschmark and US$3 million. He also disclosed receiving a car gift from the late Head of State, in addition to material gift during each festival. These gifts including the cash he said he was not going to release. Following his complaint to a close associate of Abubakar, he learnt the Head of State frowned at his disclosure of the monetary gifts which was later to become a major plank of government's battle with him. On 26th January 1999, he was again arrested and detained for three days and given six days to either refund the money to government of face the wrath of the law. On 2nd February 1999, the monetary gifts were refunded; DM 30 million and US$3 million.



Before the arrests and detention however, the Abubakar government had caused it to be known that Ani together with another cabinet member under Abacha, Bashir Dalhatu, Minister of Power and Steel, had fraudulently transferred $2.5 billion to an offshore account for the purchase of a debt worth DM3.03 billion or ($1.76b). The allegation contained in a press statement by Abubakar's Chief Press Secretary, Mohammed Haruna, was later to be known as Ajaokuta Debt Buy Back scam and became Ani's albatross.



For years, Nigeria had been trying to build a steel company with the help of the Soviet Union. The agreement to this effect was reached during the Shehu Shagari administration, but over the years the project had suffered due to Nigeria not meeting up with her financial obligation to the Russians. The huge debt became almost impossible to liquidate as successive Federal Government found it very hard to settle the debt. The option of a debt buy back became attractive and Ani as Abacha's Finance Minister acting under his (Abacha's) instructions, pursued this option through a third party as is customary. But this action was to later lead to the Haruna's allegation once Abacha was out of the picture.



Try as much as Ani did to clear his name, the allegation stocked even when it was proved to be untrue. People chose to believe it because it was against the backdrop of public excitement and anger over revelations of "large scale looting of the treasury" by Abacha. It was easy to tar persons who served under Abacha with the same reckless brush. It also came some days after Ani, the influential Finance Minister of Abacha regime, had announced that Abacha gave him monetary gifts.



Following Haruna's press conference Ani faced an unparalleled siege in the media. He was traduced by all and sundry and his name became a byword for corruption of the Abacha regime. This was a 360 turn in the media images of a man, who was once,hitherto hailed for his skill in managing economy despite the limitations of the head of state he was serving.



He strenuously denied the charges, insisting that he acted in the best interest of Nigeria on the Ajaokuta debt buyback. Nigeria indebtedness to Russia was DM3.03 billion. It was bought back at a 62% discount for DM 974 million. At the conclusion of the exercise, the matter was closed and no one could claim against Nigeria on it again. But this still seems not to satisfy those bent on bringing Ani down even as he declared he was ready for a probe to prove his innocence.



Series of investigations are carried out both by the Abubakar administration and that of President Olusegun Obasanjo. The Senate also carried out its own investigations through a public sitting and the results cleared him of all the allegations. Even a court case in London on the issue found that he was cleared.



It is, however, noteworthy that General Abubakar refused to come out clearly to state the findings of the government or to clear those not implicated in any fraud. The closest he came to doing so on a sleight of hand, was to claim at a briefing later that there was no evidence against Ani and other Abacha aides to accentuate their prosecutions.



The case took a different legal turn when Mr. Nessim Gaon (aka Noga) a business man, who had links with various governments in Nigeria, sued the federal government claiming rights over the Ajaokuta Bills of Exchange. Mr Gaon claimed that Chief Anthony Ani a shareholder and signatory to Me... Securities Inc and Partner, brokers of debt buy back. The Court found all that to be totally false and unfounded.



A government witness, Mr. Peter Gana, testified in Court that there was no scam of any kind in the Ajaokuta debt buy back. Mr. Gana was head of the special investigation Panel set up by the federal government to probe the matter.



Latter, the Senate set up a committee to examine and review controversies arising from the debt buyback. The Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts examined debt buyback transactions in Nigeria from 1983 to 2000 "With Emphasis on the Ajaokuta Debt Buyback."



Senator Idris Abubakar served as the chairman of the 13-member committee that also included Sen Patrick Aga, Mohammed Alkali, Danladi Bamiyi, John Azuta-Mbata, Femi Okorounmu, Haruna Abubakar, Melford Okilo, Samuel O. Meroyi and Mamman Bello Alo.

Submissions or actual physical appearances were made by people from Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Ministry of Finance, Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited Alhaji Mohammed Haruna, Chief Anthony Ani, Gen. Aliyu Mohammed, the National Security Adviser.

The Senate averred in it's findings thus: "Regarding the ASCL (Ajaokuta Steel) debt buy back, there is no doubt that the country befitted from the transactions in the following ways:

An all inclusive debts of over DM2 billion was whipped out by the payment of DM973,006,450 i.e in effect a 62% discount on debt.

The Nigerian Government was able to take over the Steel Complex free from encumbrances with liberty to engage any other contractor to complete the project which all agreed will greatly determine the industrialisation of programme of the country.

The Senate Committee also said Mr. Mohammed Haruna, who originated the controversy, "behaved exactly as a public officer in a position of thrust should never behave," in making false assertions before the country in an unauthorised press briefing. He did not take trouble to correct the falsehood he unleashed on the nation, when he realised he was wrong.

The report noted about Haruna: "He admitted making press statement at which he claimed that two Ministers in the cabinet of Gen. Sani Abacha had siphoned the sum of $2.5 billion and paid the Russian only $.5 billion." He admitted that he never saw the records of such a transaction. He admitted he never had the clearance of his boss, the then Head of State, when he made the press statement. He finally admitted that the statement made him could not have been correct in view of the facts that later became manifest that his figures were as much as 300% wrong.

The records available from the Committee from the Ministry of Finance , the Central Bank of Nigeria, Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited as well as all the witnesses who appeared before the Committee and also those who sent in memorandum clearly showed that the figures spewed out by him were a figment of his imagination."

Chief Ani was also investigated in various areas including the Federal Super phosphate Fertilizer Company(NAFCON) and the Gwarimpa Housing Project. No wrong could be imputed or found against him.

The investigations and their findings, no doubt, were a vindication of Ani. His claim of transparency and acting in the best interest of Nigeria had remained consistent and has been upheld in all investigations: the Special Investigations Panel, the Senate Committee of Local and Foreign Debts and the courts in the matter of Noga vs FGN in London.

The Federal Government in a show of reasonableness and good sense, obtained from a London High Court on October 21, 2001 a consent order to withdraw the case against Chief Ani and unfreeze his assets with the Australia and New Zealand Bank.

Chief Anthony Ani's saga is evidence that good men still exist in Nigeria's public service, men who served with integrity and in the best interest of the country.

His only offence? He was conscientious, proud, of that fact and loquacious in proclaiming what he had done for his country.

Rather than vilification, perhaps Nigeria should celebrate and lionise Chief Ani as an exemplar of rectitude and integrity in public office.

This Article is culled from THISDAY NEWSPAPER, Friday, December 21, 2001, Vol. 7, N0. 2434, p.18.

A former Minister of Finance and the Obong of Calabar Elect, HRH Etubom Anthony Asuquo Ani has said that plans have been concluded to set up a factory that would create a thousand jobs in Efik Kingdom of Cross River.

The former Minister under the late Gen. Sani Abacha who also promised a modern Palace for the kingdom, said that the vehicle assembly factory was one of his plans to bring prosperity to the people.

Ani disclosed this at his Palace in Calabar when the Ikoneto Community paid him a solidarity visit on Friday.

He said he would use his wealth of experience to change the narrative of the people who have had to contend with various adversities.

According to him, "I will bring a new Palace starting from this year that will contain all that we need.

"We will not complain but will do things to let people know that we are rising.

"We must make our youths have jobs, make you happy in your houses by making jobs available.

"A big factory is underway in Odukpani that will emoloy 1,000 people and will kickoff in 24 months time.

"I will make jobs available in your community so you don't need to come out of your community," he stated.

On the Obongship tussle, he said the Ikoneto people have been cheated since 1973 when the Accord was signed.

He said the Ikoneto people were supposed to assume the throne in 1990 but they voluntarily left it for Henshaw Town.

He added that he was selected to be Obong of Calabar in 2007 but they again overpowered the Ikoneto people but this time they are determined to right the wrongs.

"They selected me to be Obong fifteen years ago in 2007 but they again overpowered us and took over.

"But like David fought Golaith, though we are not many but we have increased and have fought them.

"We have no Obong of Calabar now, I am the Obong Elect. The gods have agreed, the Ekpe, Ndem and even the witches have agreed that I am the Obong of Calabar," he said.

On his part, Etubom Ephraim Etim Nsa from Ikoneto said his people sent him to celebrate with the Obong Elect.

He said they are grateful that after so many years of marginalisation, the Ikoneto people have finally produced the Obong of Calabar.

Also speaking, HRH Etubom Essien Ekpenyong Efio, the Chairman of the Etuboms Traditional Council since 2007 said it was the turn of Western Calabar to become the Obong of Calabar.

He said Adiabo and Creek people had earlier produced Obong of Calabar and it will not be fair for them to produce Obong when the Ikoneto people are still waiting.

He added that the position Ani is occupying now is that of Ikoneto and when he completes his tenure it will rotate to another part.

He stressed that the council taking place at Effanga Ansa Street is an illegal council because by the Supreme Court judgment, all the people there have gone with Edidem Abasi Otu.

On his part, former Nigeria Ambassador to Uganda and Chairman publicity of the event, Etubom Nya Eyoma Asuquo they are in the process of installing the new Obong and different houses will pay him homage.

He said the Supreme Court judgment said the people of Ikoneto should be given an opportunity to become Obong because it is their turn.

He said by the court judgment all what the former Obong did has been nullified and only people who were Etuboms in the palace as at 2008 are the people qualified to choose the new Obong.

It would be recalled that he apex court had recently nullified the election of Abasi Otu as the
Obong of Calabar.

Mr Dennis Idahosa (APC-Edo) has raised the alarm over looming danger on the Benin-Ore highway over a faulty bridge on the busy road.

This is contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on media, Mr Friday Aghedo and made available to newsmen in Benin on Wednesday.

He regretted that the bad session on the Ovia bridge on the highway have led to lost of several lives in addition to properties worth million of Naira.

Idahosa lamented that the unwarranted deaths and destruction and hardship commuters suffers on that session of the highway day, prompted him to move a motion on the floor of the Green Chamber.

The representative of the Ovia federal constituency, said that the Ovia bridge is very strategic on the highway that is a gateway to major parts of the country to be left in that state.

"As you are aware that presently there are failed portions on the road which has become notorious for
multiple accidents resulting in severe injuries, loss of lives of innocent hardworking Nigerians and properties running into millions of Naira on a weekly basis.

"Just last week, June 29th, all passengers of an eighteen seater vehicle, including a little baby, died in an accident on Ovia bridge killing all the passengers on board.

"Two days ago on the same bridge, five vehicles, with one plunging into the river, was recorded on the same bridge.

"I am also worried about the untold hardships faced by commuters due to the unending gridlock on
the failed portion of the road spanning kilometres.

"I am particularly concerned that the bridge serves as a major route for the transportation of goods and
services to various parts of the country, but the failed portions on the bridge have affected the delivery services, thus affecting economic development of the country," he lamented.

Idahosa said that he was elated that the House of Representatives showed concern over the situation and called on the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to urgently address the situation.

He further said that the House maandated the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) to immediately remove all damaged and accidental vehicles from the bridge and around the failed portion.

Gov. Alex Otti of Abia says that building a Federal Secretariat in the state will have multiplier economic and aesthetic effects on the state’s overall development.

Otti said this on Wednesday, when Chief Sam Onuigbo, a former member of the House of Representatives (Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency), paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, Umuahia.

He regretted that while almost all the states in the federation, including those created in 1996 (six years after Abia), had functional federal secretariats, Abia had yet to have its own.

He expressed dismay that efforts to construct a federal secretariat in the state were frustrated in the past by some state actors.

The governor commended Onuigbo for his unwavering pursuit of the project, in spite of the frustrations encountered along the way.

He said that he was excited that Onuigbo shared similar perspective on the matter and the construction of the 16-kilometre Umuahia-Umudike Road from Abia Tower.

Otti said that he had started the process of dualising the road from Abia Tower to Okpara Square, to ensure the smooth flow of traffic.

According to him, the project is in line with his vision of enhancing the aesthetics of Umuahia, the capital city.

He said he was pleased to learn from Onuigbo that a plan was already in motion for the project, including the construction of a flyover from Amachara to Ossah.

Meanwhile, Otti has expressed concern over the impact of climate change and the need to prioritise sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in the state.

He expressed serious interest in climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.

He further spoke on the importance of creating opportunities and achieving Low Green House Gas emissions, including green growth and sustainable economic development.

Ealier, Onuigbo, who sponsored Nigeria’s Climate Change Act 2021, praised the governor’s vision and pledged to offer his legislative, intellectual and technical expertise to drive climate change action in Abia.

The former lawmaker also spoke on some of his achievements in his eight-year stay in the National Assembly.

The list included the ongoing reconstruction of the Umuahia-Ikwuano-Ikot Ekpene Road, Okwe-Obuohia-Nkari Road connecting Abia and Akwa Ibom and proposed
Federal Secretariat in Abia.

Mr Dennis Idahosa (APC - Edo) and the immediate past chairman of the House Committee on Legislative Compliance has urged President Bola Tinubu to implement the recommendations of the Steve Oronsaye report as there is no better time to do so than now.

The lawmaker who represents Ovia Federal Constituency in the Green Chamber said implementation of the report would cut wastage in government as well as strength the civil service.

Idahosa who lauded the decisions so far made by the President to save the nation economy, made the call in a press statement personally signed by him and made available to newsmen in Benin on Monday.

He said that the dwindling revenue of the country in the face of increasing demand for infrastructural development, high debt burden, and better welfare for the citizens, posed a great danger to the survival of the country.

He noted that it was as a result that there have been increase and sustained campaigns for cost-cutting measures in governance across the board.

The lawmaker said that the Oronsaye committee revealed a high level of competition among several overlapping agencies, which had not only created ill feelings among government agencies but also brought about unnecessary wastage in government expenditure.

It would be recalled that the Oronsaye committee submitted an 800-page report on April 16, 2012, which recommended the abolition and merger of 102 government agencies and parastatals, while some were listed to be self-funding.

The committee also recommended, among other things, the discontinuation of government funding of professional bodies and councils.

These measures were meant to free funds for the implementations of government programmes.

Idahosa however regretted that after ten years after, no administration have muster the courage and political will to implement the report.

He allayed the fear that implementation of the Oronsaye’s committee report would led to job loss in the federal civil service.

He also said that the National Assembly (NASS) would give legislative backing for the report implementation where necessary.

According to him, "I must commend the move so far by the President Bola Tinubu's efforts to stopping the haemorrhage in the nation's economy since he took over the reign of power on May 29th.

The far reaching decisions such as removal of fuel subsidy and unification of exchange rate, would free up revenue to implement policies and programmes aimed at bettering the lives of Nigerians.

"However, I am urging the President to also look other ways to free more revenue such as the implementation of the Steve Oronsaye committee report that was set up by President Goodluck Jonathan administration.

"But, sadly, the government, rather than reduce, harmonise or merge some agencies as recommended in the report, has gone ahead to establish more agencies.

"It is better we endure the short term effect of the inconveniences that will come with the implementation, and later enjoy the long term effect, than to further delay its implementation," he stated.

The lawmaker who concluded with a call to Nigerians to be patient as President Tunubu continue with his reforms, assured that these reforms would at the end led to the enthronement of good governance in Nigeria.

Arthur Jarvis University (AJU), a private University in Akpabuyo Local Government Area of Cross River, says it has initiated random testing of students to curb menace of Drug abuse among the students.

The Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Ani Nkang made the disclosure during the seventh matriculation of the University in Akpabuyo, near Calabar on Friday.

The VC who expressed worry on the issue of drug abuse among the youths, said any prescription drug in use should be properly registered at the University hospital.

He warned the 329 matriculants that the institution also have in place, tought sanctions against other social vices.

According to him, "Resist any undue influence by friends as the effects may be devastating. Please note that this university has zero tolerance to examination misconduct, drugs, secret cult activities, possession of dangerous weapons on campus, rape, fighting, stealing and impersonation.

"These activities attract visible and proportionate disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.

"Moreover, perpetrators of activities which are considered criminal offences are promptly dismissed from the University and handed over to law enforcement agencies for investigation and prosecution."

Nkang said that the University which was issued with full operational licence in 2020, boasts of been the most affordable private University in the country and also has excellent student-teacher ratio in classes and good hostel accommodation.

A Socio-Cultural group under the aegis of Akoko-Edo and Owan Alliance has lampooned some alleged members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State over the appointment of Mrs Mailmary Aipoh as board member of the North East Development Commission (NEDC).

The group said that the unwarranted attack on her appointment by president Muhammadu Buhari by the persons is borne out of mischief and ignorance.

This is contained in a communique signed by Mr Sunny Ifijen and Ogumah Umeiza, convener and secretary respectively, and made available to newsmen in Benin on Monday.

While commending the President for finding her worthy to be appointed into the NEDC board, the group described the "naysayers" as those planning to cause division between the two council areas that have co-existed without any form of trouble over the years.

It further stated that the people behind the statement are feigning ignorant on how federal appointments are made in order to sway unsuspecting public to their mischief ploy to cause crisis in the polity of Owan federal constituency.

The group however noted that the essence of the communique was to correct the false narrative that the beneciary, though an Owan West Local Government Area by birth, is and remained a member of the APC in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

It noted that her appointment was a welcome development to the people of Owan West and by extension Owan East and Akoko-Edo that have been marginalised over the years when it comes to federal appointments.

According to the statement, "First of all, we wish to appreciate President Muhammadu Buhari for the appointment which was long in coming.

"We are indeed proud of the appointee. She has a humble political pedigree, sagacity, and versatile in all field of human endervour. She will be a golden anchor for Afemai, Edo and South-South region.

"We outrightly condemn the sponsors and signatories of a petition letter dated May 7th 2023, by a non-existent APC Equity Group, where they demanded for the withdrawal and replacement of Mrs Aipoh with someone from Owan East council area.

"We are sad that these petitioners did not see anything good in this appointment to congratulate the beneciary, buy chose to malign and cast aspersions on her well deserved appointment.

"Consequently, we urge relevant authorities to ignore all forms of unholy antagonism against a gender-sensitive appointment of Mrs Aipoh."

The alliance called on the leadership of the party and the State unravel this faceless group that is tyring to sow a seed of discord in the party and Owan federal constituency in particular.

The group concluded that it woukd continue to support any individual or cause that would bring development and unity to the people irrespective of party affiliation.

A Socio-Political group under the aegis of Akoko-Edo and Owan Alliance has canvassed support for the former National President of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Hon. Peter Akpatasoasson to be given the responsibility to deputise the speaker of the House of Representatives.

The group noted that for nothing, the Akoko-Edo representatives in the Green Chamber and currently the Deputy Majority leader of the House, is no longer a stranger to the politics of the National Assembly (NASS) as a fourth timer.

The convener of the group, Mr Sunny Ifijen and his Secretary, Omeiza Ugumah, made this known in a statement made available to newsmen in Benin on Thursday.

The statement noted that it was time that the former NUPENG boss is compensated for his loyalty to the party, in addition to been from the minority area of Edo State that have remained faithful to the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the years.

It explained that Akpatason had during the Goodluck Jonathan Presidency, shun all forms of pressure to defeat to the then ruling party.

The group said not only has Akpatason contributed to the growth and development of the party in Akoko-Edo, Edo State and the country in general over the years, he has been instrumental to stabilising the polity in Nigeria.

According to the statement, "Ordinarily, this is not something that we should have brought to publis domain as the leadership of the APC and specifically the Mr President-Elect is not unaware of Akpatason's contributions to the party.

"But just want to say that it is high time that his consistency and loyalty was rewarded and we feel the best way to go is with the Deputy Speaker position of the soon to be inaugurated 10th assembly.

"Aside individual contributions to the growth of our dear party, Edo State have also remained faithful to the APC. We are all familiar with the roles and contributions of Adams Oshiomhole and Pally Iriase to the party.

"Let it be known that we are not alone on this position, the people of Edo State are into this project as well as the people of Akoko-Edo and Owan who incidentally are the most marginalised local government areas in Edo North where Akpatason hails from.

"Whatever nomenclature they want to ascribe it, whether compensation or reward for loyalty, Akpatason and Edo state deserved support of the leadership of the APC and other elected members of the House of Representative."


Sunny Ifijen

Barrister Kenneth Imansuagbon(aka Riceman) has joined workers in Nigeria to mark the day set aside to commemorate the World's Workers Day.

In his goodwill message Barrister Imansuagbon, who is the proprietor of Pacesetters Group of Schools, Abuja,
sought for a better reward system for workers in the country.

While he prayed to God for the workers
to have three best of health, he stressed that a better reward system would make their years of labour not to be in vain.

According to the educationist: "I join workers all over the country, especially in Edo State, on this auspicious occasion of their day tagged Workers Day. My prayer is that their labour, hardwork, and preserverance should never be in vain.


"I want to also acknowledge and celebrate the tremendous contribution of the hard work of Nigeria workers. In deed , your tireless efforts, dedication and commitment to nation building has kept the Nigeria going cannot be over-emphasized despite the obvious challenges.

"May the dutiful workers always count bounties of blessings everywhere they find themselves. This is sure way of getting the right reward for all they have invested in keeping the wheel of the nation's economic sector moving smoothly without any setback.

"As an employer of labour myself, I see the hours of hardwork my employees put into making the organisation function optimally.

"My wish is that such personnel who put in much effort in their work schedule should always be blessed with heavenly support in their undertakings."

Going further, Barrister Imansuagbon reminded the workers in Edo State that 2024 is the year of the governorship poll in the state and he count upon their support "so that together we can change the fortunes of the state for the better."

Former Edo State Governorship Aspirant, Barrister Kenneth Imansuagbon, has enjoined Muslims faithful in Edo state and Nigeria to be steadfast and hopeful of a better Nigeria as they mark the end of the Ramadan fast.

The Chairman, Pacesetters group of Schools in statement to Muslims also noted that period also calls for prayers among Nigerians in overcoming the hydra-headed challenges confronting the nation.

He also called for tolerance, perseverance; sacrifice and love which he noted are some of the lessons of the Ramadan period.

The Edo born philanthropist popular for his yearly annual rice sharing to the needy also called on the privileged class to reach out to the poor in the society who could not afford one square meal a day.

“I want to use the Ramadan occasion to felicitate with Muslims in Edo State and Nigeria at large to congratulate them on the successful completion of the month long Ramadan fast.

“This is period also calls for deep reflection among well—meaning Nigerians to pray for unity of the Country especially in the face of the daunting economic and security challenge facing the Country” .

He further urged Muslims adherents to show love and compassion among others as demonstrated by Holy Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W) and work towards the peace and progress of Edo State and Nigeria as they celebrate.

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