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Oil Sector Probe: Federal Lawmakers Shagaya, Whingan Distance Selves from Pro NNPCL Advert

Says investigation within powers of parliament, must go on


Members of the House of Representatives Hon. Mukhtar Tolani Shagaya and Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan have disowned the inclusion of their names in an advertorial placed in some national dailies calling for caution in the ongoing probe by the joint committee on Petroleum Resources Midstream and Downstream on the challenges affecting the Midstream and Downstream petroleum sectors.

Our correspondent recalls that on Sunday, about 120 of members under the banner of 1AGENDA placed an advertorial reportedly aimed at protecting Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

Condemning the Unauthorized Inclusion of his Name in the "1 AGENDA" Statement, Hon. Shagaya, who represents Ilorin West and Asa Federal Constituency, Kwara State said the parliament has a constitutional duty to investigate complaints and concerns before taking any stance.

The Lawmaker who's the Deputy Chairman House Committee on Basic Education & Services stated that the reason for the clarification is because silence on matters such as this can often be misinterpreted as concurrence.

His statement reads, "I wish to address the recent publication attributed to a coalition named "1 AGENDA," which falsely includes my name as one of the 120 lawmakers behind the statement titled "NNPCL: A Call for Caution."

"I categorically state that I am neither a member of this so-called coalition nor aware of its existence until the publication of this statement. I did not sign any statement, nor was I consulted or informed about it. The inclusion of my name, listed as number 62 among the supposed supporters, is both unauthorized and misleading.

"To avoid any misconceptions, I firmly believe in the right to a fair hearing, particularly concerning issues related to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

"The House of Representatives has a constitutional duty to investigate complaints and concerns before taking any stance, and I fully support this process.

"Silence on matters such as this can often be misinterpreted as concurrence, which is why I am compelled to speak out. I urge the general public to disregard any association of my name with the "1 AGENDA" statement. Furthermore, I call upon the group behind this publication, "1 AGENDA," to immediately withdraw the statement and tender a public apology to me for this unauthorized inclusion.

"Such actions undermine the integrity of the legislative process and mislead the public. I remain committed to serving my constituents and upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and due process in all legislative activities."

Similarly, Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, who represents Badagry Federal Constituency Lagos State, in his statement said, "it has come to my attention that a recent publication by 1 AGENDA includes my name, Hon. Whingan Sesi, as No. 47 in the publication titled "NNPCL: A Call for Caution."

"I wish to categorically state that I was neither present at any such meeting nor pest of any resolution process regarding this matter. Furthermore, I did not sign the said document or any document related to this organization, and nor do i have any knowledge of the existence of 1 AGENDA or its objectives. I find it necessary to clarify my stance and to correct this misrepresentation.

"The publication in question does not reflect my views or position on the matter, and I firmly disassociate myself from it.

"I support the rightful process of investigation and fair hearing in addressing any issues related to NNPCL and NMDPRA 88 instituted by the House of Representatives and any existing legal framework. Additionally, as the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), i maintain that any discussions or calls for action regarding the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) should be based on thorough investigations and factual evidence.

"I hereby, urge the group/organization/association 1 AGENDA to immediately withdraw the publication and issue a public apology for the unauthorized use of my name. This action not only misrepresent my stance but also undermines the integrity of the legislative process.

"Furthermore, I reaffirm my commitment to transparency and accountability in all legislative matters. I support fair hearing and due process in all matters including but not limited to issues relating to NNPCL and NMDPRA.

"As representative of the good people of Badagry and as the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), i will continue to adhere to the dictate of our constitution and house rules. Therefore, I urge the Public to follow constitutional processes and allow the appropriate committees to conduct their investigation, if any, without unwarranted external pressure."

There mixed reactions to President Bola Tinubu’s Sunday broadcast targeted at addressing issues over the ongoing hunger protest across states of the federation.

Some Stakeholders in Abakaliki, Ebonyi capital, who reacted after the broadcast on Sunday, said the process of Nigeria were enormous to addressed.

While some blame the leadership of the country on its challenges and some said the masses have not been sincere on the issues of national development.

According to them, Mr President not Nigeria problem, but masses without sincerity and good orientation.

Mr Chidi Igboji, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) in Ebonyi said it was necessary for all Nigerians to wake up for its growth.

"Frantically, every Nigerians must take responsibility for our country's setback. Protesters, who came out protesting to end bad governance in Nigeria end up becoming looters.

"You see why I am always saying that the masses are more corrupt than the Leaders. That's why the leaders are not afraid of the power of the masses.

"How will the people end bad governance by looting and destroying People's and government properties? It's high time, we seek renewal of Mind and better orientation that will make a better country.

"Let me tell you, all the promises and points made by the Mr President this morning during the broadcast will not make any significant changes in our economy without actions and support of the masses.

"We need aggressive actions to move the nation forward," Igboji stated.

Also speaking, Mr Onyebuchi Mpamugo, Chairman of the the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufo-Alike Ikwo (AE-FUNAI), said it worrisome hearing Mr President admonishing the citizen to be patient.

"Be patient while the politicians continues with their prodigal lavishing of the wealth?

"There is need to cut cost of governance," Mpamugo advised.

The Chairman, however commended the President, especially the reduction on the country's debt servicing.

"One of the good aspects of the speech is that the President informed the nation that the debt servicing burden of the country has been reduced from 97% to 68% with a prospect for further reduction.

"This is good for the country. It's pertinent to state that there is little or nothing the country can achieve when debts service gulps a whooping 97% of the country's revenue," he said.

Mrs Vivian Odoh, a Lawyer said it was necessary to support the policies of the federal government at ensuring that nation's economy is stabilised.

“Suppreme court order on local government financial autonomy is highly commendable and increment in the national minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000," Odoh added.

Polycarp Sola -Abakaliki

The lawmaker representing Ebonyi/Ohaukwu federal constituency at the National Assembly, Pastor Eze Nwachukwu, has unveiled a 3 km asphalted section of the Umuimama/Egedegede road, which he attracted to his constituency, earlier commissioned by Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru on Sunday.

While unveiling the project, the lawmaker stressed the need for infrastructural development of his constituency, which according to him has been a key focus of his leadership that has made him attract the project worth over a billion naira, including installations of solar-powered street lights on the said road and others within the constituency.

Nwachukwu, who also distributed empowerment items such as mechanized farm tools, fertilizers, sewing machines, and palm seedlings, among others, noted it as part of his 12-month account of stewardship to his constituents, to encourage them into productivity and to improve the quality of their lives.

"To mark our one year of effective and productive representation, we shall empower constituents and friends with the following items: two cars, 25 sewing machines, 25 grinding machines, and sets of frying utensils for widows of both Ngbo and Agila who lost their husbands during the Ngbo and Agila war.

"Modern agricultural equipment, four units of minitractors, 30 cutting machines, five units of dormer machines, 1,000 bags of fertilizer for constituents, about 4,000 improved variety palm trees, training of constituents in palm plantation management—this is in fulfillment of my campaign promises in line with the people's charter of needs to boost commercial and mechanized agriculture." 

He maintained that his quality representation of his constituency has enabled him to initiate a peace process with the neighboring Agila community of Benue State towards ending an age-long crisis that has consumed lives and properties, while pledging to prioritize healthcare, among other life-uplifting programs, to benefit his constituents.

"In line with the people's charter of needs mantra of our governor, I made promises and pledged to my constituents. In fulfillment of these promises, paramount among them was my promise to resolve the age-long Ngbo and Agila crisis, which took many lives and properties. 

"The desire to achieve this made me move the very first motion on the floor of the House of Representatives of the 10th National Assembly. Subsequently, we followed the resolution of the House with critical stakeholders from both communities, with great unflinching support and encouragement. Today, the long, aged war is over.

"I will remain committed to consolidating the people's charter of needs of His Excellency, the Governor of Ebonyi State. Moving forward, we will prioritize healthcare programs, school programs, agricultural initiatives, and human capital development. Infrastructural projects will continue to be a focus as we strive to elevate Ebonyi/Ohaukwu to greater heights," he said.

Who is afraid of Reps' oil sector forensic investigation?----Ebert oil Services, Port Harcourt

Apparently worried by the woes of the Nigerian Petroleum Downstream sector driven by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority( NMDPRA), the House of Representatives via a motion resolved to conduct a legislative forensic investigation into the resurgence of fuel queues in petrol stations, allegations of high cost of PMS, unavailability of fuel stock for downstream domestic refineries, among others.

The House Committees on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) and (Midstream) chaired by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere and Henry Hon. Okogie saddled with the responsibility were also mandated to carryout a legislative forensic investigation into the presence of middlemen in trading.

They were also mandated to carryout investigation on indiscriminate issuance of licenses, unavailability of laboratories to check adulterated products, influx of adulterated products into the country, allegation of non domestication of profits realised from crude marketing sales in local banks, as well as other anomalies.

The House equally directed the panels to conduct a legislative forensic probe into the allegation of importation of substandard products and high-sulphur diesel into Nigeria, sale of petroleum products below fair market value and its impact on downstream and local refineries and as the source of funds for such interventions, amongst others and report back to the House within four weeks for further legislative action.

Our correspondent recalls that the committee for the exercise was inaugurated on July 22 in Abuja by the Speaker of the House, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen.

Abbas reiterated the Green Chamber was investigating importation of adulterated petroleum products into country; the difficulties of domestic refiners in accessing crude oil feedstock and the broader threats those issues pose to Nigeria's energy security.

The Co-chairmen of the joint investigative committee; Hon. Ugochinyere (Downstream) and Hon. Okojie (Midstream) called on all stakeholders to provide comprehensive support, including essential information and documentation.

They also urged refinery operators, importers, producers, and marketers of petroleum products to share their complaints, suggestions, and independent facts.

The Lawmakers disclosed that letters of invitation for paper submissions and appearances had been dispatched to key stakeholders, including the Minister for Petroleum (Oil), the management of NNPCL, the GCEO Mele Kyari, Executive Vice President Downstream, and Authority Chief Executive of NMDPRA, Operations Officers.

Others include, their lab heads or testing partners; IPMAN, PETROAN, NUPRC CEO, independent oil producers, international oil companies (IOCs), importers, marketers, and depot owners.

Mr Ebere Okereke, Snr Exexutive, Ebert oil services Port Harcourt decried the state of fear among officers of the NNPCL and some relevant stakeholders in the oil sector over the investigation exercise.

"I believe the exercise tended to be a launch pad for building a truly national oil company of our dreams where efficiency, transparency and commercial viability reign supreme.

"It is worthy to note that there have been suggestions from critical stakeholders including Civil Society Organisations and Lawmakers to give way for a seamless exercise, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, Mele Kyari, and the Chief Executive of NMDPRA, Farouk Ahmed right under whose nose those alleged malpractices were being perpetrated, should step aside pending investigation.

"But the fears of those who made these suggestions are already manifesting as there is already a campaign of calumny targeted at the joint committee and by extension the good intention of the House of Representatives, to discredit the forensic investigation even before it goes full swing, which implied someone, some persons or institutions are afraid of the outcome of the probe.

"While one would have been less concerned if such was coming from faceless groups who are, and have being usually used for such hatchets jobs, it worrisome that such sinister moves are emanating from members of the House of Representatives.

"It is quite curious that it all began with Hon. Billy Osawaru (APC, Edo), the lead sponsor of the motion which paved the way for the forensic probe led purported 49 lawmakers including him making 50 to fault calls for the removal of Kyari and Ahmed pending the investigation.

"The so called 50 lawmakers under the auspices of Concerned Members as the name implied were concerned with Kyari and Ahmed remaining in office on Thursday, Day one of the nationwide protests against bad governance caused majorly by the dwindling fortunes of the downstream sector of the petroleum industry, the backbone of the nation's economy," Okereke stated.

He quoted Hon. Billy Osawaru (APC, Edo) as saying that: "Our attention has been drawn to some media reports calling for the removal of the group chief executive officer of the NNPCL and the chief executive officer of NMDPRA while investigation is still subsisting.

"We wish to state that it is in the parliamentary culture to afford parties in investigation the right for fair hearing. Therefore, the call for removal of anyone while investigation is pending is premature.

Okereke also noted that Osawaru was obviously countering his co-sponsor of the motion for the forensic audit, Hon. Hon.Philip Agbese (APC, Benue) who earlier issued a statement urging President Bola Tinubu to immediately dismiss Kyari and Ahmed whose "competence" was stifling the growth of the economy due to crisis in the oil sector.

"The self acclaimed Benin Chief who was leading a press conference in Abuja to protect Kyari and Ahmed when Benin was boiling with protest, was also out to antagonise his fifteen lawmakers colleagues under the aegis of The Economy Rescue Group led by his Edo kinsman, Hon.Esosa Iyawe (Oredo Federal Constituency) who equally called for the resignation of Kyari.

"Curiously and surprisingly too, another group of lawmakers numbering 120 under the ageis of '1 AGENDA' sponsored a full page coloured Advertorial in National Dailies in defence of Kyari and Ahmed on Saturday, Day Three of nationwide protests when their defenceless Constituents were demonstrating violently over HUNGER," Okereke added.

Polycarp Sola -Abakaliki

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, has urged the youths in the state to refrain from the planned protest against hunger and bad governance scheduled to take place across the country.

Nwifuru, who stated this on Wednesday during the first youth summit organized by his administration, appealed to Nigerians to exercise patience with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, which obviously is making efforts to fix the country and make lives better for the citizens.

According to him, he has rolled out numerous empowerment programs for the youths, adding that he is committed to the People's Chatter of Needs agenda of his administration.

"I must seize this medium to reiterate that this administration is committed to the People's Charter of Needs. This we have done by taking many of our youths out of the streets through our skills development and empowerment programs. 

"I am glad to inform you that most of the Youth Empowerment beneficiaries who got two million naira each are doing very well in their respective businesses. Another batch of our youths will soon get their money.

"Through gatherings like this, the youths are exposed to leadership training, character development, value reorientation, conflict transformation, and peacebuilding, among others.

"Let me remind you that we are set—to by the end of 2025, train and unemployed youths in mechanized agriculture, small and medium-scale enterprises, and other varying productive ventures. 

"Expectedly, the state government will provide them with microcredit facilities, thereby making them self-reliant and viable entrepreneurs with sustainable livelihoods. It is important for our youths to leverage this opportunity and engage in agriculture, which has remained a viable option to a white collar job.

"Our scholarship scheme is on course. The first batch of 300 students for the foreign scholarship will soon depart the country to various countries where admissions have been secured for them to pursue their Masters and Doctorate Degrees.

"While 700 others will resume from different universities across the county. Our target is to ensure that at least 8000 of our youths benefit from the scheme before I leave office in 2031, by the grace of God.

"As part of engaging our youths, we recently employed 1700 of them into our civil service. Arrangements are in top gear to revive existing industries and establish new ones to create more jobs for our youths.

"I am aware of the planned protest against hunger and bad governance scheduled to take place across the country, including Ebonyi State. While I understand the reasons and concerns that have led to this call to action, I strongly urge you all to refrain from participating in this protest.

"As your governor, my administration is committed to addressing the challenges we face, and we are working tirelessly to improve the lives of our citizens. However, protests can often lead to unintended consequences, including violence, destruction of property, and disruption of essential services. 

"Instead, I invite you to engage with us through constructive dialogue and peaceful channels such as today's event. We have established these mechanisms for feedback and complaints, and we are always willing to listen to your concerns.

"Our state is blessed with talented and innovative young people like you. We will provide the support and resources necessary to help you succeed.

"Once again, be assured that this government shall continue to rekindle the hope of its youths for a secured future with a life of comfort and fulfillment.

"Let us work together to build a better future for our state and avoid any actions that could put yourselves or others at risk," he stated.

Rep. Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, has urged Nigerians not to protest against the government of President Bola Tinubu.

Agbese added that the president will restore their confidence in his administration by appointing competent hands to work with him and changing the leadership of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd.

This change, he said, would affect the leadership of the Nigerian Mistrean and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

According to him, the President had warned some time ago that he would not hesitate to sack his appointees or those inherited from past administrations if they failed to do well. 

Agbese: "I believe strongly in the President that he will do all that he has promised. Nobody loves this country more than Tinubu.

"This is one man who is ready to sacrifice everything for Nigeria, especially the youths of this country.

He called on all his comrades, patriots and partners in progress not to participate in any protest.

The Lawmaker added that the President had given more appointments to young people than any other African leader in recent times, saying, "How then do we pay him back with protests against his administration?"

"The fit and proper thing at this point is to support him. However, he will also reciprocate by sacking those impeding our growth and development.

"There's no going back on that, Mele Kyari and Farouq Ahmed must be sacked," Agbese said.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/pmnewsnigeria.com/2024/07/30/how-tinubu-will-restore-citizens-confidence-in-government-lawmaker/%3famp=1

Ahead of the proposed August 1st hunger protest across the country, the Deputy Speaker of Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Chinedu Onah, has called on the youths of Ohaukwu south state constituency to boycott the exercise, saying that there's no bad governance in the state.

Onah, who made the call while reacting to questions from journalists regarding his position on the development, said that the Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has been performing well and therefore sees no reason for Ebonyi people to join the protest.

"I don't want to insinuate; nobody has sent me an official letter about any protest. Be that as it may, we are all Nigerians; the rumors available are that they want to protest against bad governance.

"I don't know if Ebonyi is inclusive, because I'm from Ebonyi State and I know that we don't have bad governance in Ebonyi State; the governor has been up and doing; he's been so competent and discharging his duties.

"For us as legislators, we have been able to put certain things in place to cushion the effects of the hardship on the people, which the people are saying they would protest against, so if there's any protest going on anywhere, Ebonyi should be excluded completely because our governor is doing well and we commend him." Onah said.

The Chief Executive Officer of Mc Rich Group of Companies, Chief Collins Okorie Udu, has said that Governor Francis Nwifuru's aim of uniting all political stakeholders in Ebonyi state under one platform, is people oriented' and should be supported by all.

The Edda Local Government Area--Born Entrepreneur said this in an interview with newsmen on Friday in Abakaliki, noting that the governor's move to have the state's major political stakeholder under the All Progressives Congress (APC) was progressively conceived.

The Leader of Edda Progressives Union in Cross River State, noted that the sole aim of governance is to serve the people so the governor 's move which has resulted into the massive defection of these stakeholders from the opposition to the APC, was.commendable.

"If there is no people, there will be no Ebonyi state whether it is the APC, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) or any other party.

"The governor's ingenuity is to have these political bigwigs under one platform in order to bring peace and stability to the state.

He however allayed fears that these stakeholders might scatter under the present political platform due to personal or other ambitions, noting that the people would be the ultimate judges.

"Human beings are unpredictable but since the move abnitio is to serve the people, they would still be the ones to judge whoever decides to make any negative move.

"Whoever would out of personal or other remote reasons, decide to truncate this good action of the governor would be seen and judged by the people,".

Udu also noted that the present election of Local Government Area Chairmen in Ebonyi, attests to the state's age-long adherence to the rule of law and practice of true democracy.

"It is hoped that the 13 new chairmen would serve people at the grassroots as the governor is doing in the state, especially with the new Supreme Court judgement on financial autonomy for LGAs.

"The new chairmen are thus expected to utilise the funds that would be made available to them now, to ensure service to the people and enhancement of their well being.

"Ebonyi has long been known to practice LGA autonomy so the supreme court judgement is just to formalise it,".

He urged the people to continue supporting the governor on his marvelous works in the state, noting that he had combined the infrastructural feats of his predecessor with human capital development.

"The infrastructural edificies sprouting across Abakaliki and beyond continues to beat imaginations so also, are the human empowerment strides of the governor.

"The governor has offset backlogs of gratuities and pensions of retirees, employed civil servants especially health personnel, revamped the state's scholarship scheme among others,".

Udu urge the governor to critically look into the issue of astronomical rise of house rents in Abakaliki and other parts of the state, noting that it was adding to the hardship being faced by the people.

"The governor in the spirit of his peoples charter of needs mantra, should arrest the situation by checking the increment from whereever it is emanating.

"He should also embark of mass housing schemes especially for low income earners, to ameliorate the pains of this high house increments,".

My name is Mrs Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac . I am the Chief Executive Officer of Homadil Realty Limited, headquartered in Abuja.

I am an upright, honest, humble, responsible, hardworking, God-fearing, philanthropic, and law-abiding citizen of Nigeria who believes in the rule of law and the Nigerian legal/judicial system.

I grew up in the ancient commercial city of Kano in Northern Nigeria, raised by missionary parents. Growing up was challenging as my parents struggled to provide for us on their meager missionary stipends. We were brought up with strict moral values, integrity, and honor.

Through determination and the assistance of a few family friends, I gained admission to the University of Maiduguri, where I obtained my BA English Language, a Master of Education in Educational Administration and Planning, and an MBA. I am currently pursuing my Ph.D.

During my university years, I supported myself by traveling to Lagos on weekends to buy goods, which I sold to fellow students for profit. I also sold my bed spaces to wealthy students who couldn't get hostel allocations, using the proceeds to fund my education and support my family.

This entrepreneurial experience motivated me to enter the real estate business during my National Youth Service 2009 in Kogi State. I have always maintained a life of celibacy, discipline, and prudence, in line with my upbringing. As a happily married woman, I have never cheated or defrauded anyone. I resolve business issues amicably to ensure client satisfaction, adhering to my philosophy that clients are paramount.

I do not work at Agis; all the lands I have as a developer were purchased. Recently, I have been wrongly accused and subjected to media trials by the EFCC for alleged land grabbing and falsifications, which are attempts to smear my character, destroy my legitimate business, and ridicule me and my family. I am writing this article to state the facts of the case, expose the EFCC's compromised position, and highlight their disregard for court orders.

I purchased a land described as plot 4022 in the Guzape district of Abuja. I validly perfected the land documents with Agis and the Development Control Department of the Federal Capital, obtained all necessary approvals, paid the prescribed fees, and received my certificates of title. I took possession of the land and began development without any issues for over three years.

After substantial progress, including roofing, plastering, and installing utilities, I received a call from the Development Control Department about a petition claiming I had taken over the land illegally. I provided my transaction documents for verification, and the issue was resolved. I continued with the finishing work, moved in with my family, and settled down.

One morning, EFCC operatives stormed my house, chased away my staff, and left a notice on the building. They instructed me to report to their headquarters, which I did through my lawyers due to my business trip. The EFCC levied numerous allegations against me, including the land issue. My lawyers requested a meeting with the complainant for fair hearing, but the EFCC refused, citing confidentiality. When my lawyers insisted, the EFCC threatened severe consequences if I did not hand over the property.

Sensing a lack of fair hearing from the EFCC, I approached the court for justice. I obtained a restraining order against the EFCC, which they blatantly ignored by invading my house, detaining my husband and staff for fourteen days without charging them to court. This behavior by the EFCC reveals their intent to embarrass and humiliate my family and destroy my business.

The EFCC's media publications revealed the petitioner as the faceless YESUFU family and exposed my financial standing, endangering my family. Despite court proceedings, the EFCC and the YESUFU family refuse to appear in court, opting for media trials and harassment instead.

Recently, I embraced Islam and changed my name from Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac to Bilkisu Ishaku Aliyu, reflecting my new faith and identity. However, the EFCC has attempted to tarnish my reputation by falsely accusing me of fraudulently using multiple names. This baseless accusation is a deliberate attempt to undermine my credibility and discredit my legitimate business endeavors.

I have also learned of plans to arrest me upon my return to Nigeria for making press statements about this issue.

I plead for the intervention of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and the EFCC Chairman to call the EFCC operatives to order and allow me to occupy my property without intimidation, harassment, or oppression. My family and staff have been traumatized by the EFCC's unlawful actions, and we now live in constant fear.
Signed:
Mrs Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac

Polycarp Sola -Abakaliki

The Chairman of Abakaliki Rice Mill Industry, comrade Obeji Linus, has today felicitated with the former governor of Ebonyi State, Senator David Nweze Umahi, who is also the current minister of works in the President Bola Tinubu-led renewed hope administration, on his 61st birthday anniversary.

In a felicitation message forwarded to this media in Abakaliki, the state capital, comrade Obeji, who described the former governor as a national treasure, banked on his giant initiatives at the federal level, which are connecting the southeast to other states, also pointing him as the father of equity in the modern Ebonyi State.

"Today, we celebrate His Excellency, Senator David Nweze Umahi, the man who God has used to take away the shame of the Abakaliki man; he is the one that has made Abakaliki city to be in the number one position among the southeast states of Nigeria. The glorious state of Abakaliki today cannot be complete without mentioning his name.

"His style of leadership has made him a national treasure; currently, he is in charge of the construction of the trans-Saharan road from Lagos to connect the southeast and other parts of the country, and most importantly, we acknowledge him as the father of equity in the modern Ebonyi State.

"On behalf of my family and the good people of Abakaliki rice mill industry, we celebrate him on this special day and pray that the God of all wisdom continue to empower him to do good for the interest of the common people, give him good health, and more prosperous years." It stated.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has urged corps members posted to the state to leave enduring legacies in their host communities by serving the people well.

Fubara gave the urge today during the closing ceremony of 2024 Batch B Stream 1 orientation course held at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) permanent orientation camp, Nonwa-Gbam, Tai Local Government Area of the state.

The governor represented by the Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Bureau, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Hamilton Amadi further urged the corps members to be "beacons of light to the people.

"You should live worthy and responsible liives that would inspire people to emulate you.

'You should take the NYSC's Skill Acquisition programme seriously, to equip yourselves for economic emancipation, empowerment, self-reliance and wealth creation."

The NYSC Coordinator in Rivers State, Mr. George Mfongang in his farewell speech, assured the governor and guests that the corps members have been adequately trained to offer invaluable services to the people.

"The training is anchored on patriotism, discipline, integrity and loyalty.

"I call on the corps members to be committed to the task of nation building.

"You should use the NYSC's Community Development Service (CDS) platform to initiate and execute projects that would uplift the lives of Rivers people,"

He concluded by urging them to deploy their youthful energies in promoting good, valuable, noble and beneficial acts to all citizens.

"This is rrespective of tribe and tongue as you should shun negative acts like cultism, drug abuse, internet fraud amongst other social vices,"

The colourful and well attended closing ceremony, saw a total of 1,800 corps members successfully completing the orientation exercises.

Ebonyi PDP Caretaker Committee wants NCW to call Barr Steve Oruruo's Leadership



The Ebonyi chapter of the People Democratic Party (PDP) has called on its National Working Committee to wade into the state Caretaker Committee Chairman, Barr Steve Oruruo and his style leadership for the party in the state.

This is contained in a statement signed and issued to newsmen in Abakaliki on Monday by Barr Pascal Ukwuani, Party's Caretaker committee Secretary in the state on behalf of other members.

"The attention of the Caretaker Working Committee of Ebonyi of PDP has been drawn to an online publication by Barr Steve Oruruo, Caretaker Chairman of the party in the state saying, he has united the factions in the party in Ebonyi," Ukwuani stated.

It recalls that some media had on Sunday reported that Oruruo has United the party in Ebonyi.

"The caretaker committee wants to make it categorically clear that the publication is misleading as it's false.

"The meeting of the Ebonyi PDP held in Enugu on the July 14, 2024 premise upon which Oruruo is claiming to have united the different interests in the party didn't achieve any result as members in attendance staged a walkout, leaving behind only Oruruo, Ali Odefa and their security guards in the hall.

"For the records, the meeting which took place in Enugu by 2 pm ended in a fiasco as usual since the inauguration of Oruruo as chairman.

"Among the 13 caretaker committee members, nine walked out on the meeting to communicate their displeasure over the manner the chairman was handling the issues bothering settlement of the crisis ravaging Ebonyi PDP's party, part of which he, the chairman engineered within the few days he has assumed office as chairman of the party.

"Yes, there was a meeting, but it ended worse than the reason it was convoked. Paying the press to report the opposite of what transpired is one of the pitfalls of the leadership of the party by Mr Oruruo.

"It's important at this point to let the national working committee and the entire public know that Steve Oruruo is using propaganda to communicate the affairs of our party in Ebonyi to the public.

"In clear terms, nothing reasonable was discussed and arrived at in the meeting held on Sunday as the chairman and Ali Odefa besieged the venue with over 70 police officers and DSS, denying the secretary and the other nine members the opportunities to contribute to discussions about the repositioning of the party.

"This denial was the last straw that broke the camel's back, leading to the abrupt dismissal of the meeting. We're surprised reading from media platforms hours after where the chairman, Oruruo claimed to have settled the scores within the party during the meeting.

"As members of the caretaker committee dedicated to seeing the repositioning of the party, we're disappointed in the ways and manner a supposed chairman goes on with the business of ensuring that the party is brought back to stability in the state, using propaganda to communicate the business of the party instead of undertaking the true task of reconciling the aggrieved members which is what he was brought in to pursue.

"So far so good, Steve Oruruo has successfully exacerbated the woes of the party and he's expedient in injuring the party more. He's ruling the party in the style of sole administration where he acts as chairman, secretary, publicity secretary and more, not allowing anyone else to participate in the process of communication to find the root cause of the discord that befell the party.

"If the national leadership of the party fails to wade into the menacing Oruruo factor in the Ebonyi PDP, it'll not be in doubt that our party in Ebonyi is headed towards absolute precipice. He should be reminded that propaganda isn't germane when trying to pursue reconciliation assuming he's even attempting to reconcile anybody as he has claimed," the Secretary stated.

The Ebonyi State Government is set to host the 29th National Council of Works Meeting which will commence today and end on Thursday July 19. at the Re-Meritona hotels, Abakaliki.


The state commissioner for Works Engr Stanley Lebechi Mbam disclosed this in his office saying the council meeting is
an annual event that brings together all stakeholders across the 36 states of the federation including Abuja.

He said that the stakeholders would deliberate on issues pertaining the works sector.

"The Minister of Works, Senator. Engr. David Nweze Umahi, commissioners, permanent secretaries of ministries of Works across the country, heads of relevant government agencies and other stakeholders are expected to attend the 4-day meeting.

The theme of this year's meeting is “Unlocking Infrastructural Potentials and opportunities as catalyst for sustainable development under the Renewed Hope Agenda”.

"It is expected to deliberate on issues pertaining the economic importance of road infrastructure with a considerable attention on a new innovation.

"This innovation is on the use of alternative Technologies in roads/infrastructure development”, he said.

Mbam said the choice of Ebonyi State as the host of this year’s meeting is apt and signifies putting a round peg in a round hole..

"This is because Ebonyi has made significant progress in improving on its infrastructure in recent time.

"There is obvious, observable advancement in road networks, bridges and flyovers". he stated.

The Great Enugu Women Association Worldwide says it aims at uniting and empowering women for the peace, social, cultural and political development of Enugu state.

The National President of the group, Mrs Nkechinyere Ani said in an interview on Friday that the move was to make women create impact in Enugu and add value to the people of the state.

Ani said the association encompasses all women from the state either as indigenes or married to Enugu men.

"The association started four years ago with headquarters in Lagos as we also reach out to our sisters worldwide.

"We aim to support and empower them economically and socially and make them forces to be reckoned with

*We have strongholds in Abuja, Port Harcourt and some northern states as the association is coming up in Abakaliki and other cities,".

The national president noted that the association plans to gather in Enugu for its August Meeting to unite the women and forge a common front.

" We want to use the opportunity to thank Governor Peter Mbah for all his good works in Enugu; in infrastructure, human empowerment, education, health among others sectors.

"We want to commend him especially on his strides on gender inclusiveness, ensuring that a very high percentage of women participate in governance.

"We are happy the way he has united the state, ensuring that past leaders and stakeholders hitherto overlooked by past governors are given due recognition,".

"He has provided adequate security across the state, making Enugu an investment destination where people want to be visit and reside,"

She noted that the August gathering will provide the association, the opportunity of reaching out to women, offer them health talks, lectures on their roles on the family and society as a whole.

Ani also hailed the impact made by Former Senate President, Anyim Pius Anyim on the association, noting that it was indebted to him.

"He is presently assisting in the arrangements to have audience with the governor.

"He is an epitome of humility, resourcefulness, a strong voice for women inclusivity in governance and gender equality.

"He will be eternally remembered for stabilising the Senate leadership which has been sustained till today and providing an endearing panache to governance as the Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation,".

Polycarp Sola -Abakaliki

Barrister Onyekachi Nwebonyi, the deputy chief whip of the 10th Assembly of the Nigerian senate and the senator representing Ebonyi North senatorial district, has unveiled that he is set to construct a 361-kilometer road connecting Ebonyi State to the federal capital territory of Abuja, commencing from his constituency.

According to the deputy chief whip, the 361-kilometer road would open doors for economic growth and boost business activities for his constituents as well as other South and Southeast states of the country when completed.

Senator Nwebonyi, who stated this during the All Progressives Congress (APC) rally in Ugbodo, Ebonyi Local Government Area of the state, ahead of the council elections, called on his constituents to support the APC at all levels to enjoy the dividends of democracy.

"We are here as a party and as a people to support the APC, because here in Ebonyi Local Government, there's no other party than the APC.

"Aside from the 7.5 km road that I've attracted to my constituency in just one year, I have attracted a 361 km road connecting Ebonyi State to Abuja.

"This is a reality, and by Monday, the honorable minister for works will be in Ebonyi to engage the stakeholders of that road, and very soon the contract will be awarded.

"This would be the open door to Abuja for the south and southeast parts of the country." He said.

The senator commended Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for ensuring that the people's charter of needs agenda is adhered to in his administration, which has manifested in the area of infrastructure.

He commended him for job creation and the welfare of workers in the state, among others, while pledging his continuous support for the APC flag bearer in Ebonyi LGA, Barrister Chinedu Uburu, who is the current council chairman, ahead of the forthcoming local government elections.

"Our council chairman, Mr. Uburu, has given us a reason to keep supporting him, and aside from that, our performing governor, Rt Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has given Ebonyi people the reason to support APC. The good relationship with stakeholders and massive infrastructural development, job creation, and welfare are indeed commendable.

"Our governor is going unopposed, and we will support him in 2027; we, the National Assembly members, will purchase the form and sponsor his reelection." Nwebonyi said.

By Polycarp Sola -Abakaliki

The Chairman of the state transition committee of the Labour Party (LP) in Ebonyi State, Comrade Innocent Igiri, has rejected the adoption of Engr. Fidelis Nwankwo as the leader of the party in the state while maintaining that Mr. Splendor Eze Oko remains the leader, being the governorship candidate of the party at the 2023 general elections.

This came following the adoption of Engr Fidelis Nwankwo as the leader of the party in Ebonyi State a few days ago by a group who claimed to be members of the National Transition Committee of the party, led by RT Hon Linus Okorie, Dr Emmanuel Ezeh, and Engr Fidelis Nwankwo himself, at a meeting held at Citihub in Abakaliki, the state capital.

In a press conference, Igiri, who noted that the Labour Party in the state has met, subsequently and uninimously nominated members of the transition committee, to which he emerged as the chairman, as directed by the chairman of the National Transition Committee, Comr. Omar Abdulwaheed Ibrahim, warned members of the party in the state to desist from participating in illegal activities that would jeopardize the peaceful transition process.

"For the benefit of those who may claim not to know, the Labour Party in Ebonyi State has already conducted its All Inclusive and Expansive Stakeholders Meeting in the state on May 5, 2024, where three motions were raised, adopted, and acted upon.

"The ship of the Labour Party in Ebonyi State has sailed successfully deep down to LGA/Ward levels in preparation for our forthcoming congresses and national convention of the party, as directed by the National Transition Committee, ably led by Comr. Omar Abdulwaheed Ibrahim.

"Permit me to say this: the National Transition Committee Chairman, Comr. Omar Abdulwaheed Ibrahim, is a man of wisdom, and he has the great experience needed to rejig the Labour Party towards winning elections. We have absolute confidence in his leadership.

"We have the mandate of the people to inform the general public that the Labour Party Ebonyi State chapter will never accept Engr. Fidelis Nwankwo as the leader of LP in the state as being proposed by some notorious political game hijackers, for very bad, obvious reasons.

"Just to mention a few, Engr. Fidelis Nwankwo is too old and belongs to the old system that the youths are seeking to change through Mr. Peter Obi.

"Secondly, Engr. Fidelis Nwankwo, whom the hijackers are projecting to be the leader, has forgotten that the person who brought him to the Labour Party is our leader, Comrade Splendour Oko Eze.

"We therefore make bold to inform the general public that the leader of the Labour Party in Ebonyi State is none other than Comrade Splendour Oko Eze, the 2023 gubernatorial candidate of the party in Ebonyi State.

"Just as Mr. Peter Obi, by virtue of his being the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, is today the Leader of the Party in the entire nation, so is Comr. Splendour Oko Eze. Anyone who wishes to be our leader in the state should first of all go and remove Splendour Oko Eze from being the 2023 governor candidate; then he can aspire to lead." Igiri stated.

He called on the Attorney General of the Federation and Honorable Minister of Justice, Mr. Latif Fagbemi, to do everything within the ambit of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended in union with other laws of the land, to prosecute Barrister Julius Abure for forgery, perjury, and financial malfeasance as directed by the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, on the matter between the leader of LP in Ebonyi State, Comr. Splendour Oko Eze, and others.

"We, the leaders of the Labour Party Ebonyi State Transition Committee, are calling on the Attorney General of the Federation to charge the matter in court. That file has stayed on his table. We took a very far journey to get to the IGP and a farther journey to finally get to his office, and we won't be tired until we see justice prevail." He explained.

Benjamin Kalu's has diligently ensured a responsive House of Representatives ---legislative Aide


Hon. Charles Akpuenika, A Legislative Aide to the Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu says that the Abia State--born lawmaker has diligently ensured a House of Representatives that is responsive to Nigerians' needs.

Akpuenika the Immediate Past Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports in Ebonyi State, made the assertion in an interview noting that Kalu has such attribute as a major achievement in the celebration of his first legislative year as the House Deputy Speaker.

He said that Kalu has so far justified the contents of the House leadership's acceptance speech on inauguration,, when it pledged to operate an assembly that the members and Nigerians would be proud of.

"He and the House Speaker promised a House that would be guided by Nigeria's constitution and contribute in building the nation through reforms and innovations.

"The House leadership unveiled a legislative agenda tagged ‘the People’s House’ which outlined key reforms, aimed at addressing socio, economic, political challenges facing Nigeria.

"The innovations include the introduction of sectoral debates into the workings of the legislature.

"The Heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government were summoned by the parliament, to update Nigerians on how they are carrying out their duties, challenges.and achievements,",

Akpuenika noted that the major highlight of Kalu's legislative finesse was heading the House Committee on the review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) having pledged that work on the alteration will be completed in December 2025.

"Nigerians are happy that areas of the constitutional alteration process include state police, power devolution, fiscal federation, electoral reforms, judicial reforms among others.

"These are issues that affect the socio, economy and cultural existence of its components.

"Kalu has also sponsored about 100 important bills in the last one year such as South-East Development Commission Bill, State police Bill, Bill for an Act to Provide a Policy Framework for the Development of Bio-Fuels Energy Industry in Nigeria;among others".

The legislative aide noted that Kalu's interventions to check insecurity in the South East geo-political zone of the country is second to none.as.he has taken the lead in making aggrieved interests see reason and embrace peace.

"This is for the rapid economic and socio development of the zone as he initiated the Peace In South East Project (PISE-P) in December 2023,

"This noble and grandiose initiative unveiled by President Bola Tinubu through Vice President Kashim Shettima, at Bende Local Government of Abia State, seeks the adoption of non-kinetic approaches to solve the insecurity menace in the zone.

"He also inaugurated a 7-man Peace Fund Committee to raise financial assistance for victims of insecurity in the zone,.

Akpuenika remarked that with one legislative year having rolled bye, the deputy speaker has set the tone for.more legislative accomplishments and prayed God to give him more wisdom.

The Ebonyi State chapter of the Labor Party (LP) has adopted a 15-man transition committee, which is saddled with the responsibility of repositioning the leadership of the party in the state.

This came following the directives of the National Transition Committee of the party, chaired by Comr. Omar Abdulwaheed Ibrahim, who has commenced the repositioning process at the national level.

Members of the state transition committee include Comrade Igiri Innocent, Chairman; Comrade Rapeal Akpaeze, Co-Chairman (South); Mr. Ekumaoko Ginikachi Nnachi, Chairman, Congress Planning Committee; and Pastor Ken N Oziomaeze, Secretary, Congress Planning Committee (Central).

Members of the South sub-committee are Hon. Christian Chukwu Otu (PTF), Secretary, Transition Committee; Apostle Chukwu John, Chairman, Mobilization and Recruitment; Comrade Mark Chimezie, Chairman, Support Groups; and Comrade Igweanu Sunday Michael, Chairman, Registration and Revalidation Subcommittee (Central).

Others include the chairman of the peace and reconciliation committee, Hon. Esheya Greg (North), Rtd. Capt. John N. Ezeh (US Navy), chairman of security, Mrs. Ijeoma Chukwu, chairperson of the gender equality subcommittee, and Chief Dominic Egwu, chairman of the contact and stakeholder engagement subcommittee (South).

Media and Publicity subcommittee: comrade Ose Vincent Ebenyi (North), Apostle Benjamin Egwu, chairman of diaspora engagement (South), as well as comrade Moses Nwali, chairman of special groups and diversity.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Igiri Innocent, Chairman of the Transition Committee, who commended the state leadership of the party led by Comr. Splendor Eze as well as the national leadership for the effort made thus far towards the party's repositioning, pledged to join hands with other executives to ensure the party takes on the winning side.

He, however, tackled state governors over the issue of the minimum wage as proposed by the Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC), calling on them to stop the ridiculousness against workers and urging them to resign if they would not prioritize the welfare of workers across the country.

"Let me use this opportunity to air my voice on the issue of a new minimum wage as proposed by the NLC. Let me say this: the Nigerian Governors Forum should not ridicule the suffering masses.

"People are indeed suffering. As of today, the inflation rate has gone to 34%, the naira to dollar is 1600, the price of premium motor spirit is between 600 and 1500, and you expect the minimum wage to only adjust a bit up? 

"That is ridiculous! Any governor who says that he can't pay the agreed minimum wage between the tripartite committee and the Federal Government on minimum wage should, with immediate effect, resign and hand off the mantle." He stated.

Lending his voice, the secretary of the transition committee, Hon. Christian Chukwu Otu, maintained that the Labor Party's repositioning would see to the birth of a new Nigeria as well as Ebonyi State, urging members to remain steadfast on the vision of its founders, based on the quest for better leadership.

The Anglican Diocese of Abakaliki-- Health and Community Development Initiative, has sought the collaboration of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in its advocacy towards preventing Gender- Based Violence (GBV) in Ebonyi.

The Group's Project Coordinator, Chukwunonye Umeokafor sought the collaboration when he led its delegation on an advocacy visit to the NAN Ebonyi office in Abakalikii.

Umeokafor said the group intends to contribute in the fight to prevent GBV which is a major factor to instability in many homes, workplaces, schools among others..

"Several men and women engage in GBV knowingly and unknowingly and such for instance, affects the children raised in such homes.

"Our advocacy is unique because we correct the notion that only men perpetrate GBV as women are also involved in such acts.

"We there seek the collaboration of NAN to disseminate messages of our activities being a critical stakeholders in news dissemination in the country,".

The team leader noted that the group has formed youth clubs in schools, engaged stakeholders through participatory meetings, knowledge and capacity building outreaches, among others.

"We carryout archdeaconry and parish outreaches and my team is drawn from various parishes and archdeaconries under the Anglican Diocese of Abakaliki.

"The members step-down our messages to various parishes and arcdeaconries to ensure that the congregations say no to GBV,".

He noted that the group was in collaboration with various governmental and non-governmental agencies in propagating preventive messages on GBV.

"We are in touch with the pet project of the Ebonyi Governor's Wife, the state ministries of Women Affairs, Justice, relevant security agencies, among others.

"We need more peaceful homes and workplaces and this can be achieved when people's rights and privileges are duly respected,".

The State Correspondent of NAN in Ebonyi, Chukwuemeka Opara thanked the group for the visit and assured that the agency will collaborate with it in achieving its goals.

"Identifying the critical role NAN plays in disseminating life uplifting messages is important being the flagship of news dissemination in the country.

"The agency under the leadership of Ali. M. Ali is poised to continue playing leading roles in reshaping the country through accurate and objective news dissemination,".

He noted that the NAN Ebonyi office will continue collaborating with individuals and groups which desire the upliftment of the masses" welfare.

Members of the group also spoke on its activities in preventing GBV in the state.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Ebonyi State has expressed worry over the alleged strange list for a new Caretaker Committee in the state.

It recalls that the new list was announced by the party's National Working Committee (NWC) in Abuja on Friday.

In a statement signed by the stakeholders, led by Senator Igwe Nwagu, former Deputy Governorship Candidate of the party in 2023 general elections called on the NWC to replaced new list by the agreed list acceptable by them.

“We have been mandated to nominate a candidate each from the 13 local government areas of the state to serve in a new Caretaker committee.

"The Ebonyi State PDP members subsequently made nominations, while the NWC announced that it reserves the right to appoint the Chairman and Secretary from any part of the Southeast," the statement explained.

According to the statement, when the party released the new Caretaker Committee list on Friday it was discovered that the earlier submitted list had been replaced by the National Working Committee.

We, therefore declared that the from the above conduct of the NWC, it is now crystal clear that they are either working as undertakers for the final burial of the PDP in Ebonyi State, or they are being misguided by arch-enemies of the PDP in Ebonyi State.

"If the NWC reneges on the collectively agreed-upon list of new caretaker committee as submitted by the various local government chapters of the PDP in in the State, we may not have any other option than to resign from the PDP.

“We have sacrificed personal and individual resources and comfort to stay true and loyal to the PDP in the face of organised intimidation, harassment and subterfuge plots.

"It is, therefore, curious that the National leadership of our great party looks reluctant to help the party stay strong in Ebonyi State," the statement added.

Some of the party's stakeholders, who signed the statement include, Sen Igwe Nwagu, Sen. Michael Amah Nnachi, Barr. Onwe S. Onwe, former Acting National Secretary of the PDP, Lagos based business mogul, Chief Julius Amah and Dr. Paul Okorie a former governorship aspirant.

Others include Hon. Chris Usulor, Hon. Franca Okpo, Hon Victor Aleke, Chief John Igboke, Chief Ekuma Igbota, Chief Amah Ugo Orji, Chief Abia Onyike among others.

The Labour Party (LP) in Ebonyi State has sided with the Federal Government of Nigeria in its bid to ensure proper handling of the 774 local government funds across the country, as well as its recognition as a third-tier government with autonomy off the state government.

This came ahead of the local government election in the state, slated for July 20th, for which the party has called on its members to boycott the process, describing it as a selection of the state government rather than an election, reflecting the will of the people at the grassroots level.

Recall that the Federal Government had dragged the 36 state governors to the Supreme Court over alleged misconduct in the handling of local government affairs.

Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney General of the Federation, instituted the action against the governors to seek full autonomy for local governments as the third tier of government.

Representing the state chairman, Mr. Splendor Eze, at a stakeholder meeting held in Abakaliki, the state capital, the acting publicity secretary of the party, Mr. Innocent Igiri, stated that granting autonomy to the local government would strengthen the election process and provide a level playing field for all political parties involved.

"Local government elections in Nigeria today could be said to be a selection, not an election. The Labor Party would not take part in such selection processes and activities.

"We are encouraging the attorney general of the federation to continue what he is doing to get the governor's to implement the part of the law that gives local government autonomy and also to make it a law for INEC to conduct local government elections; that is when we will be proud to participate in the elections." Mr. Igiri stated:.

The Ebonyi state commissioner for works and transportation, Engr. Stanley Lebechi Mbam, has assured that Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru's administration is committed to constructing durable roads in the state to uplift the infrastructural standards.


Commissioner Mbam, who gave the assurance at a media parley with some selected journalists in Abakaliki, the state capital, said the newly constructed internal roads in the state capital would last a test of time, considering the robust concrete technology applied during the construction.

"We have been commissioning these projects in the past few weeks, and people can see that they have quality and are pleasing to the eye. So far, His Excellency has done wonderfully well through the ministry of works." He said.

According to him, the new roads were started and completed within the one year of the administration, which include a 4.5km Mile 50 New Layout road, the 13.3km Udude Street internal roads, the Legacy FM road, the 20.5km Onueke-Ikwo section of the Abakaliki ring road, as well as the 17.2km Nwezenyi-Nwanwu-Mgbaji Nwagu section of the Abakaliki ring road.

He also pointed out some rehabilitated roads within the state capital, which include Udude, Emefor, Onamba, Police Junction, Goddy Ogbaga Avenue, Olisaemeka, Barr Igweanu, Nnorom, Alo, Grace Ovu Nwagu, Mike Aduaka, and Igweanu Liga Street, as part of the government's achievements within its first year.

He further assured the general public that the Governor Nwifuru-led administration would continue to focus on delivering quality leadership and urge them to support him in his bid to deliver his mandate, which was centered on the people's charter of needs.

Zonefree:
Why's this man's preaching always about Money Money Money?

They don't preach salvation again.

Pay attention to his teachings you will see that he preachers fortunes that comes with salvation... Kingdom wealth

Polycarp Sola -Abakaliki



Residents of Azugwu Street in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state capital, have staged a warning protest over a 3-month blackout and alleged negligence on the part of the Enugu Electrical Distribution Company (EEDC) to restore a failed transformer in the area.

Eyewitness Reports gathered that the residents, who came out enmass in the early hours today, lamented over crippled businesses in the area as most shop owners depended on EEDC for power supply.

They equally noted the current economic hardship in the country as well as the high cost of petroleum, which most people could not afford, and the ugly development has led their businesses into debt and losses.

One of the protesters, Comrade Joseph Orji, a business owner who narrated the ordeal, blamed the EEDC for replacing a failed transformer with a substandard one after suffering a blackout for over 4 months in the year 2023.

"The problem started last September, when our transformer here was packed. We took it upon ourselves, wrote letters to EEDC, but to no avail, and when we pressured them much, they came, took it away, and instead of working on it to function properly, they brought a substandard one for us," Orji said.

He alleged that the transformer, which the EEDC officials brought to the street around the second week of December 2023, only lasted for about two months and got damaged beyond repairs, affirming that it has been out of service since February 2024, which is over three months now.

"We have been talking and apealing to them, that look, this is dry season, the heat is too much, there is no water here because the boreholes need light to function, we have been suffering, businesses have been collapsing, the price of fuel is at a hike, when you buy fuel, 3000 naira for 3 liters, it doesn't last for more than 3 hours, and all the money we are making now returns back to expenses." . He explained.

Another resident, Offor Okwudili, a 300-level student of mass communication at Ebonyi State University, regretted that the blackout has affected his studies even as they are preparing for the semester examinations, noting that some of his colleagues have lost their phones and chargers while trying to power their gadgets at charging points.

"To be honest, what is happening here has affected us badly, particularly the majority of us, the students that live here. Some of us have lost our phones and chargers because they are trying to change their phones outside their house, so please, the government should come to our rescue because it's affecting us even as we are preparing for the semester exams.". He said.

Another resident, who spoke anonymously, blamed the EEDC for allegedly being responsible for the breakdown of the transformer due to overloading customers on the street, knowing it wasn't strong enough to accommodate them.

When contacted by phone, the head of corporate communication at the EEDC, Mr. Emeka Ezeh, did not pick up his calls for reactions, and when our correspondent reached him via WhatsApp, he had yet to send an email at the time of filing the report.

Meanwhile , the stakeholders of the area including the Councilor representing Azugwu/Azumili Ward 6 in Abakaliki local government area, Hon. Emeka Kingsley Ikegwu have heavily condemned the ugly development and warned EDDC to restore power to avoid further breakdown of law and order in the state.

The Senator representing Ebonyi South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Prof. Anthony Ani has urged Nigerians to emulate the Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences at the University of Nigeria (UNN) Nsukka, Prof. Ogbonnaya Igwe on his works for posterity.

Ani made the call while inaugurating a pavilion attracted by Prof. Igwe and constructed by a Philanthropist, Chief Anthony Ofoma for the faculty.

The senator described the pavilion as a show of commitment from the dean and the philanthropist ,to enhance the status of the faculty and create a conducive learning and working environment for its students and staff.

" I have a philosophy of life that there is tomorrow and Igwe who is my younger brother also shares and practicalises such philosophy.

"It is tomorrow that will talk about today and tomorrow,, people will talk about what we left behind for posterity, today.

"What we should therefore, be concerned about is what to do to serve God and humanity,"

He described Igwe as a man of integrity and character who has blazed the trail in his chosen career and the service of God and humanity.

".When I received the invitation from the dean, I did not hesitate to attend despite my commitments at the National Assembly which is resuming from recess.

"This is like a home coming for me because I bagged my first and second degrees from this university while my son is a final year student here,".

He also thanked Dr Ofoma for his kind gesture to his alma mater and prayed God not to allow his efforts be in vain.

The Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences, UNN, Prof. Ogbonnaya Igwe thanked the guests for attending the event especially the senator for honouring it despite his right schedules.

"I thank Dr Ofoma for his gesture towards the construction of the pavilion as he has proven to be a man of his words.

"I was at the Federal University of Technology Owerri a month ago to examine post graduate students and Dr Ofoma called me.

"He asked me what was still needed at the place we were landscaping and I replied that we needed not just the ultra modern seats that he promised but a car park.

"He said that we should do the inauguration and he will see what was remaining.

"Before the commencement of this event, he had gone round himself and seen what needs to be done,".

Ofoma in his remark, noted that the pavilion was part of his philanthropic gestures and he was pleased to initiate this particular one at the UNN.

"I was motivated to construct the facility because of the exemplary and innovative qualities of the dean of the department.

"I urge staff and students to judiciously utilise the facility and assure that all that is needed to make it absolutely conducive would be provided,.

Speakers who spoke at the occasion also extolled the achievements of the faculty dean which include: creation of the nuclear science department under the faculty and collaborating with the Vice Chancellor to move staff to the new department.

Igwe was also commended for attracting a donor for the construction of a befitting building for the department and securing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the faculty and Kyoto university in Japan for staff and students exchange programmes, involving research collaboration.

He was equally commended for regularising appointments that are unprecedented despite inheriting largel number of appraisals occasioned by strikes and COVID 19 break, and processing unprecedented number of promotions among other feats.

fergie001:
SOURCE

The naira, FG no fit fix d condition they speculating more than the accused.. they should focus on what actually makes the life of a common man better instead of chasing clout...as dollar rise, price remain d sem, e fall, na d sem...Ogini?

A pet project founded by the Wife of Ebonyi Governor, Mrs Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, Better Health for Rural Women, Children and Internally Displaced Foundation, has concluded plans to administer free vaccine against Human Papilloma Virus in the state.

She made this known on Thursday, during the inauguration of the BERWO committee in Ikwo Local Government Area of the state.

The inauguration featured the commissioning of the state Community and Social Development Agency Assisted Micro Projects in the area.

Nwifuru noted that the foundation, in collaboration with the state Primary Health Care Development Agency, would embark on the campaign for the vaccine on May 27.

The governor’s wife explained that the vaccine is targeted at young girls, between the ages of nine and 14, among other eligible children.

She noted that the exercise for the vaccine would last five days after which it will be incorporated into the routine immunisation schedule.

Nwifuru described the virus as a deadly disease that affects part of the womb of women and causes cancer in males but could be prevented through vaccination.

She, however, stated that the foundation had also commenced enrollment of people living with scrotal hernia, for surgical operation across the 13 Local Government Areas of the state.

“My pet project and other notable health partners in the state will also embark on screening and treatment of early-stage cervical cancer.

“Health is paramount and on our priority list as a government. We will give our best health care service delivery,” Nwifuru said.

In his remarks, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Bernard Odo, assured that six courts had been designated to tackle issues affecting women.

“A high court and one magistrate court have been designated at Ebonyi north, central and south of the state to handle gender-based violent cases.

Mr Sunday Nwankwo, the Council Chairman, assured continuous partnership with the foundation to enhance healthcare services and empower the needy.

Mrs Josephine Elechi, wife of former Governor of the state, described the initiatives as a welcome development that would promote health care, and welfare and improve the livelihood of the downtrodden in the society.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Mrs Nwifuru embarked on a tour of 13 local government areas of the state to realise her vision of equipping health facilities and ensuring quality healthcare services to vulnerable women and children in remote areas.

It was also reported that the event featured the inauguration of the BERWO committee to help enhance the quality of health and foster sustainable development in the area.

polycarp65:
Polycarp Sola -Abakaliki




Mr. Celestine Onele, the electrical electronics engineer in Ebonyi State, has clocked 18 hours of marathon ironing in his quest to set a new Guiness World Record for the longest ironing of clothes.

Engr. Onele made it known to the public in a press conference held in Abakaliki, the state capital, on Sunday that he was embarking on the exercise to set a new Guiness World Record.

The event has commenced at the Real Exclusive Palace Bar, Abakaliki, in the state capital.

This marks the early stage of the quest for Mr. Celestine Onele, and as external observers, journalists have continued to monitor the activity.

Members of the public have also been coming to support him with clothing to iron.

More pictures

Polycarp Sola -Abakaliki




Mr. Celestine Onele, the electrical electronics engineer in Ebonyi State, has clocked 18 hours of marathon ironing in his quest to set a new Guiness World Record for the longest ironing of clothes.

Engr. Onele made it known to the public in a press conference held in Abakaliki, the state capital, on Sunday that he was embarking on the exercise to set a new Guiness World Record.

The event has commenced at the Real Exclusive Palace Bar, Abakaliki, in the state capital.

This marks the early stage of the quest for Mr. Celestine Onele, and as external observers, journalists have continued to monitor the activity.

Members of the public have also been coming to support him with clothing to iron.

MyVILLAGEpeople:
I’m thinking of fvcking for straight 7 days non stop. I will submit my application soon.

Odogwu I hope you have two life

Ebubu:
E go dey sup for Abakaliki🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥☄️

💯

NwaNimo1:
My cloth dey dere?

https://storage.ko-fi.com/cdn/useruploads/display/ca674774-ebcc-4bb6-8362-19cb54c09807_123.gif

If u dey Abakaliki abeg bring your clothes come mek e no go off materials to iron