Edo Guber Race: Tinubu Urges Adams Oshiomole To Return Home And Rally Round Support For Ize-lyamu

Edo Guber Race: Tinubu Urges Adams Oshiomole To Return Home And Rally Round Support For  Ize-lyamu

Francis Tayor

The former Governor of Lagos State and The National Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu, speaks for the first time on the ongoing crisis in the party. In his reaction, he believed the current crisis impede the performance of the dissolved National Working Committee (NWC) and also affected the unity and coordination of the party.

He lauded President Buhari’s decision in dissolving the National Working Committee and appealed to all members of APC to accept it. He believes President Buhari has done what a parent in his position and with his authority would do. So, Tinubu said, “It is now beholden on all of us, as members of the APC, to recommit ourselves to the ideals and principles on which our party was founded.”

More so, he appreciated the composure, loyalty, and obedience of Adams Oshiomole, the former National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), to the party and the President. He emphasized that Oshiomole has a more significant role to play in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Edo State.

He charged Oshiomole to return to the state and rally round Ize-Iyamu, the gubernatorial candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State. He told him to energize the campaign that will enable Ize-Iyamu to be elected as Edo State Governor comes September, 2020.

If Adams Oshomhole will gather himself to Edo, raise Ize lyamu hands for Edo people to choose as their governor and Edo people will clap hands for him. one will say wonders shall never cease to happen. The same Ize--lyamu he croscified yesterday will be Edo savior today is a great misnomer. Edo people are waiting for Adams to answer some questions when Ize--lyamu has become a saint to govern Edo people. 419 is a deadly concept. If I were in Adams shoes I will never campaign for Ize- lyamu. how will I start? There should be level of self integrity.When such is lacking katakata and wahala go de follow you up and down..Edo people shine your eyes.We know you will.

Just-ln: Invasion Of King Of Zion Palace Bolowou, Dr. Clement Tonfawei Calls On Nigerian Police To Arrest Chief. Ajube And His Gangs

Just-ln: Invasion Of King Of Zion Palace Bolowou, Dr. Clement Tonfawei Calls On Nigerian Police To Arrest Chief. Ajube And His Gangs


Ondo_____ Report reaching our news desk has it that, a group of hoodlums led by one Mr. Bibopre Ajube, popularly known as 'SHOOT AT SIGHT' invaded the palace of the head of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church Worldwide, Rev. Dr. Epistle Jemine, in Bolowou Town, Ondo State.

The group invaded the palace of the King of Zion, on Wednesday 24th June, 2020, destroying properties worth millions of naira, as well as beating up the innocent wife of the head of the C&S church.

While carrying out their mission, the group attacked several aides and followers of the man of God in the palace, injured many and whisked away over 18 followers of the king of Zion to an unknown destination.

Though, the reasons for the invasion is yet unknown at the time of filling this report. And the destination of the abducted persons is still unknown.

While making findings about the incident, our reporter placed a call through the Chief Security Officer of the Zion mission worldwide, Apostle Dr. Clement Tonfawei, who gave indebt details about the incident, confirming it.

Dr. Tonfawei said the reason for the invasion of the palace of the king of Zion, beating up of his innocent wife and the abduction of over 18 of his followers is still unknown, noting that it is a shock about what is happening.

Apostle Clement stated that, he does not know what on earth would warrant Mr Ajube and his gang to carry out such inhuman, unlawful and criminal act on the most revered spiritual leader of the C&S Church worldwide.

The Chief Security Officer also narrated that Mr Ajube led a group of security men to the palace of the King of Zion, and arrested him not long ago. This culminated to a rancour before it was resolved by the Nigerian Police.

CSO Clement described the act as criminal, and the abduction of the followers of the man of God as an offence. As such, charged the Nigerian Security agencies to address the issue accordingly, by bringing the perpetrators to book.

Apostle Clement therefore, called on the security agencies in the country, to wade into the issue without delay, and arrest Mr Bibopre Ajube and his gang. And as well move for the release of the abducted persons.

In his words:

"I Apostle (Dr) Clement Tonfawei, the Chief Security Officer of the Zion mission worldwide, want to use this medium to condemn in its entirety, the invasion of the palace of the king of Zion, beating up of his wife and the abduction of over 18 of his followers, by Mr Bibopre Ajube also known as 'SHOOT AT SIGHT' and his gang.

On Monday the 24th of June 2020. Mr Bibopre Ajube and his gang of hoodlums invaded the palace of the King of Zion, Reverend Dr. Epistle Jemine in Bolowou town. And destroyed properties worth millions of naira, also beat up the innocent wife of the man of God, and left several of his aides and followers badly injured.

Mr Ajube and his gang of hoodlums, after destroying several properties in the palace, also abducted over 18 followers of the king of Zion to a destination still unknown to us.

We are still amazed on why Mr Ajube, who is an Ex-militant general, who has handed over arms and pledged allegiance to the Federal government of Nigeria, to be of good conduct, and have  accepting the Federal Amnesty, would still carryout such inhuman, unlawful and criminal act.

From the informations we have gathered, we are   aware that majority of the abducted persons are been tortured severely, with different kinds of tools, by Ajube and his gang. Leaving them with severe injuries.

I am using this avenue to call on the Nigerian security agencies, to step into the issue immediately, and arrest Mr Bibopre Ajube and his gang. And also to free the abducted persons.

I therefore, urge the Nigerian security agencies to lay adequate emphasis on the issue. As the act perpetuated by Mr Ajube and his gang is inhuman and criminal. The ungodly act of Mr Ajube and his gang should be seen as a capital offence, as no Nigerian has the right to abduct another Nigerian under any circumstances, the statement adds".

APC Crisis: Tinubu Blast President Buhari, Calls Him Ingrate After Spending Over #35 Billion To Make Him President

APC Crisis: Tinubu Blast President Buhari, Calls Him Ingrate After Spending Over #35 Billion To Make Him President

Francis Tayor

Lagos____ The embattled National Leader of the All progressive Congress, APC Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken a huge swipe at President Mohammadu Buhari, describing him as an ingrate on whom he spent over N35 billion to make president.

Tinubu’s outburst came a day after Buhari torpedoed his Presidential ambition, endorsing another faction of the APC in the leadership tussle that has engulfed the party, sources close to the former Governor of Lagos State revealed.


On Wednesday, Buhari endorsed acting national secretary, Victor Gaidom as acting National Chairman of APC. Barely 24hrs later, he orchestrated the dissolution of the party’s National Working Committee, NWC. Yobe State governor Mai Mala Bunu was appointed to lead the party’s caretaker Chairman.

Sources revealed that Bunu, Abubakar Bagudu and Nasir El-Rufai, governors of Yobe, Kebbi and Kaduna States respectively, as well as Transport Minister Chibuike Amaechi belong to the same political camp opposed to Tinubu.

Soon after Thursday’s NEC meeting, it was gathered that Tinubu got on the telephone with a former national chairman of the party, Chief Bisi Akande, lamenting and cursing everyone perceived to be behind his political travails.

A source who privy to the conversation told our reporter that the former Lagos state Governor complained to Akande, reportedly expressing regrets on all he did for the APC.

“Asiwaju lamented that he invested over N35 billion to fund Buhari’s elections in 2015 and 2019 and yet, he is never appreciated,” the source said.

However, we could not independently verify the total figure Tinubu claimed to have spent on Buhari’s two elections.

The source further hinted that the embattled APC leader regretted not backing his former political ally and former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar in 2019 over Buhari, and blamed El-Rufai, Amaechi and former Ogun State governor Ibikunle Amosun as the arrowheads of the opposition to his political aspiration.

“Asiwaju told Akande that had he backed Atiku in 2019, he won’t have suffered this kind of political humiliation. He said that were it not for him, the APC would not have won the 2015 and 2019 elections,” disclosed the source.

Our source gathered that Tinubu may have been dealt the biggest political blow of his life yet in retaliation for how he (Tinubu)  humiliated the immediate past governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode.

According to the source, Buhari and other top leaders of the APC had begged Tinubu to allow Ambode complete his tenure. As events later proved, the pleas fell on deaf ears.

The APC leaders were said to have vowed to pay Tinubu in his own coin for not just disobeying the President but also carrying on like the sole owner of the party.

Meanwhile, a cold war is currently brewing between Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

According to sources close to both political gladiators, Tinubu may have since 1999 skimmed up to $1.5 billion directly and through proxies. Governor Sanwo-Olu is reportedly not pleased with Tinubu’s “overbearing demands  and his attempt to control his government.”

Ambode is reportedly happy that Tinubu’s humiliation would give him some respite.

Just-In: Delta State Governor Okowa, Wife Run For Dear Lives As Daughter Test Positive To Coronavirus

Just-In: Delta State Governor Okowa, Wife Run For Dear Lives As Daughter Test Positive To Coronavirus


Asaba_____ Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state and his wife, Edith, have gone into self-isolation as one of his daughters has tested positive to the lethal coronavirus pandemic.

The governor made the revelation on his Instagram and twitter account on Friday 26th June, 2020.

He said: “Earlier today, Edith and I received the news that one of our daughters has tested positive for #COVID19. Hence, in-line with the laid out procedures, we are both going into isolation for the next 14-days. We will continue to keep you all updated.”

Don't Play Politics With The Office Of Coordinator Presidential Amnesty Programme, Comrade Christopher Adaka Tells President Buhari

Don't Play Politics With The Office Of Coordinator Presidential Amnesty Programme, Comrade Christopher Adaka Tells President Buhari


It is a well known fact that the Presidential Amnesty Programme was not established through political agitation but via sustained agitation through the sweat and blood of Niger-Delta Youths.

The collective and sustained agitation by Niger-Delta Youths brought the needed attention of the Federal Government to the plights of the Niger-Delta People, therefore necessitating the intervention of the Federal Government which BIRTHED the Presidential Amnesty Programme. Truth is what conforms to reality, in the heat of the Niger-Delta Agitation most of our Political elites never supported our agitation they even tagged us militants especially the Ijaws: today God has transformed our adversaries into our benefits, these same people who collaborated with our oppressors have now hijacked the product of our collective struggle: surely there is an end, and the end must surely justify the means: we must take back the Product of our collective struggle.

The call for the next Coordinator to be a Product or Stunt Supporter of the struggle right from the creek days is not misplaced because he who feels it knows it: as a Labourer deserves his wages, no one can tell or sell our story better than us.

The delay in announcing a Coordinator to pilot the affairs of the Presidential Amnesty Programme is causing more harm than good as some delegates with just few months to complete their Training and Empowerment have now been put on hault due to the limitations of the INTERIM Committee.

If Professor Charles Dokubo has been investigated then let the needful be done: if he is guilty let him be prosecuted accordingly, if he is not guilty let the needful be done so as to rejuvenate the Amnesty Programme for the benefit of genuine delegates: when two elephants are fighting the ground suffers it all, delegates are at the receiving end thus there needs to be a sincerity of purpose from all and sundry in other to alleviate the sufferings of genuine delegates occasioned by the vaccum in the Presidential Amnesty Office.

While we earnestly wait for a Coordinator to be announced, the key players to pen it down should bear in mind that the original Presidential Amnesty delegates who were dully documented as card carriers are calling for a product of the struggle or a staunch supporter of the struggle to be appointed as Coordinator of PAP: majority of delegates are calling on the likes of High Chief Dr Selky Kile Torughedi aka General Young Shall Grow, the King of the Youths to be appointed as Coordinator of PAP due to his Leadership qualities as a listening Leader and an astute administrator who grew through the ranks and files of the Niger-Delta Struggle.

Please feel free to share your views and opinions in a civilised manner: We all want a better Amnesty Programme that will benefit us all irrespective of tribe and political affiliations, your views and opinions are vital: Together Everybody Achieves More (TEAM).

Comrade Christopher Adaka
Coordinator NDCABF.

Address Niger Delta Oil Pipeline Surveillance Crisis With Capt. Okunbor Now, ljaw Group Tells President Buhari

Address Niger Delta Oil Pipeline Surveillance Crisis With Capt. Okunbor Now, ljaw Group Tells President Buhari

Press Statement
25th June ,2020

H.E PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI AND INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE SHOULD QUICKLY ADDRESS THIS PIPELINE SURVEILLANCE JOBS WHICH RIGHTFULLY BELONG TO THE GOOD PEOPLE OF FORCADOS RIVER IN BURUTU LGA AND ESCRAVOS RIVER IN WARRI SOUTH WEST LGA THAT HAVE BEEN TAKING BY CAPTAIN HOSA OKUNBOR THE CEO/CHAIRMAN OF OCEAN MARINE SOLUTIONS LIMITED FOR OPPRESSING THE YOUTHS .

The youths of the various regions have been crying to the federal government and inspector general of police to do the needful and address what the good people of  the above stated regions is passing through for the sake of peace .

Captain HOSA OKUNBOR is busy  sponsoring gangs to fight against the  benefits of the youths over this pipeline surveillance jobs .

The youths are appealing to the federal government and the appropriate security agencies to immediately call captain HOSA OKUNBOR to order .He has disorganized the peaceful coexistence of the various regions over this pipeline surveillance jobs.

The youths are also sincerely calling upon the dogged and vibrant Hon.comrade Daniel Ezekiel SSA to the Delta State governor, Dr. Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa on security matters not to be mute over this matter . The youths strongly believe that it is your office as a SSA to the Delta State governor on security matters to handle what these regions are passing through in the hands of captain HOSA OKUNBOR.

It will not sound very well if you are compromising with captain HOSA OKUNBOR to fight against the youths .

The various security agencies should be aware of the oppression and intimidation of captain HOSA OKUNBOR is carrying out .

If the federal government and the appropriate security agencies failed to address this issues accordingly, on how it supposed to be. The youths will demonstrate a mass protest to Aso rock in no distance time .

Mr President promises Nigerians to fight against corruption of any kind in this our country. But he is keeping silent over captain HOSA OKUNBOR for disorganizing the peaceful nature of FORCADOS RIVER and ESCRAVOS RIVER .

Hon.Comrade Daniel Ezekiel SSA to the Delta State governor on security matters should call captain HOSA OKUNBOR to order and educate him on his boundaries of pipeline surveillance jobs .

Signed:
Comrade Paul Akpowaide National President Ijaw Political WatchDog IPWD .Niger Delta Human Rights Activist

Ijaw Group Accuses Successive Nigerian Governments Of Abandoning Historic Burutu, Forcados Communities

Ijaw Group Accuses Successive Nigerian Governments Of Abandoning Historic  Burutu, Forcados Communities

Calls On Buhari To Urgently Rethink These Communities, Wants Dredging Of River Ramos

By Binebai Princewill

Ijaw group under the aegis of Oborotu Federated Youth Movement (OFYM) has accused successive Federal Governments of Nigeria for abandoning viable historic communities of Burutu and Forcados in Iduwini Kingdom, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

The Oborotu Federated Youth Movement while decrying the poor state of things that had engulfed the once booming commercial towns noted that Burutu and Forcados played a major role in making Nigeria what it is today from the era of colonial masters till this present day, regretting on what the settlements are gradually becoming owing to neglect meted out on the people and her communities by successive governments.

The group made the shocking revelation in a press statement issued to newsmen in Warri, signed by Comr. Napoleon Kenerekedi, President general of the group, a copy of which was sent to The Liberator Newspaper.

The statement had decried the ill treatments meted out on the people of Oborotu, stressing that both the Federal Government of Nigeria and Multinational Oil Companies have abandoned these communities, adding that it is not fair to be treated in such an awkward manner.

Napoleon Kenerekedi had called on President Muhammadu Buhari to  as a  matter of urgency rethink the rapid and aggressive development of these historic towns in Niger Delta, maintaining that Forcados and Burutu is fast retrogressing beyond recognition if nothing positive is done about these communities.

Speaking further, the group had also appealed to the federal government of Nigeria to make plans for the dredging of River Ramos that runs from Burutu Local Government in Delta to Bayelsa and beyond as the river is becoming too shallow for ferry boats, turg boats and vessels to ply the route as it has already become a death trap by frequently claiming lives via accidents owing to its shallowness.

The statement reads below:

"The Oborotu federated youth movement is calling on the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency visit Buturu,Forcados and the River Ramos Channel.

"It has become necessary we bring to the public how the federal Government  of Nigeria is badly treating the once commercial hub of Nigeria, the Oborotu people  despite her contributions to the economic viability of our nation and the role she played in making Nigeria what it is today.

"It is no longer a news that Forcados is where Nigeria  had her first prison, Hospital and other things that are still evident in the community for confirmation purposes.

"The community hosted the first European settlers that were in Nigeria for trade which was Nigeria source of income generation.

"People from the Northern, West and Eastern parts of Nigeria were all settling at Forcados to earn a living but today the community has become a shadow of itself.

"Burutu community also played significant roles in sustaining the economy of this country as she played host to Royal Niger Company, UAC and NPA but as we speak, in tears the community has been abandoned by the federal Government  as there is  no federal government presence in the once booming economic hub of the country.

"This was once a community that hosted over five thousand workers within and outside Nigeria.

"River Ramos is a major route that  boats passes to Bayelsa state and other part of our country ,sadly the channel is now a death trap.

"The case of that  channels is becoming  alarming as we are speaking, big boats hardly passes that channel without running into the ground which is causing serious accidents. It is the only route commercial  boat drivers are using and because of its shallowness, they runs into those bigger boats which is constantly claiming lives.

"Another case is Yeye community, a major host to oil  facilities in Nigeria and multi national oil companies has long been forgotten."

Meanwhile, the youth movement had warned that the peaceful disposition of the Oborotu man over the years should not be taken for granted.

Demise of Pa. Gbiwen@73: Warri Rep member Ereyitomi condoles with SLA, family

Demise of Pa. Gbiwen@73:  Warri Rep member Ereyitomi condoles with SLA, family


The member Representing Warri Federal Constituency at the Federal  House of Representatives , Hon. Chief Thomas Ereyitomi  JP  has condoled with the family of his Senior Legislative Aide, S.L.A, Alex Gbiwen Esq over the demise of his father Pa. Felix Gbiwen at 73.


Hon. Ereyitomi in a condolence  visit to the Gbiwen family Wednesday June 24, 2020 in Warri, Delta State assured them of God presence and the fortitude to bear the loss and vacuum created by the septuagenarian of the family.


The Warri House of Reps member and Deputy Chairman House Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, said children are the ones to bury their parents and Pa. Gbiwen would be proud and happy because his children would be the ones to bury him which is good for any parent and the family.


He noted that late Pa. Felix Gbiwen was a good and hard working man whom before his transition to higher glory has left a good legacy for his children, family and people, adding that Pa. Gbiwen before his death was an active  member of Delta State Customary court, contributing his worth of experience to the growth and peace of Warri and humanity.


Hon. Ereyitomi who was accompanied by the immediate past Delta State Commissioner for Transport,  Hon. Vincent Uduaghan,  PDP Chieftain,  Amb. Toyin Agbolayah JP,  former Transition Committee Secretary Warri South Local Government Council, Hon. Eugene Ebisin,  Emiko Oghomienor, Oritsema Olley, Oligida and other supporters, encouraged  his Senior Legislative Aide, Alex Gbiwen Esq. and the entire  Gbiwen septuagenarian  family to be strong and focused assuring that Warri Federal constituency is with them in their period of grief, he prayed God to be with the family and console them continually.

Ezekiel Commends Nigerian Army ln Maintaining Peace Across The Nation, Says There Is No Alternative To Peace

Ezekiel Commends Nigerian Army Maintaining Peace Across The Nation, Says There Is No Alternative To Peace

Benin____ Senior Special Assistant to Delta state Governor on security matters, Comrade Ezekiel Daniel, has appreciated Nigerian Army in not only  fighting relentlessly to keep Nigeria as one, but also playing a leading role in maintaining peace across the length and breadth of the country.

The aide to Delta state Governor equally commended the newly posted Brigadier General UM Bello to the 4  Brigade of Nigerian Army, Benin for his meritorious service to his father land, having earlier served as Brigade Commander of 63 Brigade Asaba, Delta state.

Comrade Ezekiel believes that the Brigade command will consolidate on the legacy of his predecessor and take it to another level. He also pleaded with Brigadier  Bello to use his wealth of experience to open harmonious working relationship with his office in the area of sharing of information and intelligent gathering for the well being of both states.

Gov. Okowa aide made these remarks when he pay a courtesy visit to  Brigadier U.M. Bello in 4 Brigade command, Benin, Edo state on 23/06/2020.

In his reaction, the Brigade commander thanked the SSA for coming to identify with him, saying it is a good thing. He went further by calling on companies operating in Niger Delta to make local content a priority in their policy. Commander Bello promised to do all he can  to sustain the peace that exists between Delta and Edo state, who were once under Bendel state.

Finally, he charged comrade Ezekiel Daniel to extend his special greetings to his boss, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa who provided him the enabling environment and support in making 63.Brigade, Asaba Delta state a reality, the statement adds.

Civil Liberty Organization Slams Police IG’s Silence Over Conspiracy killing Of Seven Bayelsa Indigene Policemen In Delta

Civil Liberty Organization Slams Police IG’s Silence Over Conspiracy killing Of Seven Bayelsa Indigene Policemen In Delta

Francis Tayor

Yenagoa_____ The Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Bayelsa Chapter has slammed the Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu on his continued silence over the last week killing of Seven Policemen attached to the Bayelsa State Command by some unidentified Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad in Ughelli, Delta State, alleging that the silence and lack of investigation is fuelling a conspiracy of the deceased officers.

The Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) through its Bayelsa Chapter Chairman, Chief Nengi James-Eriworio, argued that the silence of the Inspector General of Police and the two Police Commissioners in Delta and Bayelsa State is unsettling and point to the fact that there is a conspiracy which led to the death of the Police men.

Chief Nengi James-Eriworio, while speaking to newsmen in Yenagoa, described the silence of the Nigerian Police on the incident as a sad development to the deceased families and Bayelsa State where they hail from. ”Till today, it is sad that the Police IG will remain silent over such incident. It is disappointment that the Police still keep mute over the murder of these policemen.”

“We are still wondering how the seven policemen were killed without any survivor with the unidentified Federal SARS not having any casualty. We are suspicious about the incident. It is difficult to accept that they were killed and their rifles left with them. We have doubt on the circumstances surrounding the killing of these seven households and families. The CLO is concerned that the death of these policemen cannot be in vain. Whether they are shot dead rightfully or wrongly. They must be investigated.”

“The CLO is yet to be convinced that something is fishy. The silence is an attempt to cook up a story to tell their families. We are not saying we know what happened. But what we are saying is that these slain policemen have rights until found guilty. The incident is questionable”.

The CLO compared the killing of the Policemen to the incident involving the alleged kidnap kingpin, Bala Hamisu, also known as Wadume,”We,the CLO, never knew until investigation was ordered. It would have been slept under the carpet. The two Police Commissioners should be made to investigate and try those involved in the incident.”

It would be recalled that seven policemen, made up of sergeants and corporal attached to the Bayelsa Police Command were last week shot dead in Ughelli by some men of the Federal SARS over reported involvement in armed robbery.

The incident cause an uproar among the residents of the two States of Delta and Bayelsa with families of the deceased officers denying the reported involvement of the deceased officers in armed robbery..

While some persons claimed they were shot dead by some members of the Federal SARS during an allege arm robbery operation, others claimed they were caught in a heavy gun sale deal which went sour and were executed.

The pictures taken from the scene of the crime showed that the deceased officers were lined up in an executioner form and shot dead with their uniforms and official rifles hanging on their shoulder.

Just ln: Chief. E.K. Clark, Bozimo, Nwodo , Other Southern Leaders Institutes N50bn Suit Against President Buhari Over Lopsided Appointment

Just ln: Chief. E.K. Clark, Bozimo, Nwodo , Other Southern Leaders Institutes N50bn Suit Against President Buhari Over Lopsided Appointment

Francis Tayor


Abuja____ Sixteen elder statesmen and leaders of socio-cultural groups in the Southern region of Nigeria, on Monday, dragged President Muhammadu Buhari before the Federal High Court in Abuja, alleging that most appointments since the inception of his administration in 2015, were in breach of the 1999 Constitution and the Federal Character Principle.

The plaintiffs, led by Chief Edwin Clark, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, Dr. John Nnia Nwodo, Dr Pogu Bittus, Chief Ago Adebanjo, Alaowei Bozimo, Mrs Sarah Doketri, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife and Air Commodore Idongsit Nkanga, alleged that the Southern region has been deliberately marginalized by the President Buhari-led government.

They are praying the court to among other things, determine whether it was not “reckless and adverse to the interest of Nigeria”, for President Buhari to obtain a loan facility from the Islamic Development Bank, African Development Bank, the World Bank, China, Japan, and Germany amounting to $22.7 billion (USD), for infrastructural development, only to allocate the bulk of the fund to the Northern region.

They are seeking a declaration that the loan facility purportedly for infrastructural development wherein less than 1% of the amount is to be allocated to the South East Zone of Nigeria for specific infrastructural development, violates section 16 (1) (a) (b) and S16 (2) (a) (b) (c) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

As well as, “A declaration that the 1st Defendant’s procurement of any loan which would increase Nigeria’s outstanding debt by up to 30% of its GDP or which would increase its interest payment above 50% of government revenue is unconstitutional”.

Other plaintiffs in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/595/2020, are Senator Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele, Prof Julie Umukoro, Elder Stephen Bangoji, Alhaji Tijani Babatunde, Mrs. Rose Obuoforibo, Mr Adakole Ijogi and Dr. Charles Nwakeaku.

Aside from President Buhari, also listed as 2nd to 4th Defendants in the matter are the Attorney-General of the Federation, Clerk of National Assembly, and the Federal Character Commission.

Specifically, the plaintiffs, in the suit they filed through a consortium of lawyers comprising of 10 Senior Advocates of Nigeria led by Chief Solomon Asemota, SAN, and Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, are further praying the court to determine:

“Whether the power to appoint designated public officers including permanent secretaries, principal representatives of Nigeria abroad, which is vested in the 1st Defendant has been lawfully exercised by him since the inception of his administration from 2015 till date and Whether his actions are in breach of Sections 171(5), 814(3) (4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“Whether the power to appoint Nigeria’s Armed Services Chiefs, other Commanders or top officials of the respective Armed Forces Higher and High Commands’ General Staff ; namely the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) and Chief of Airforce Staff (CA8); the other statutorily established Nigerian National Security agencies or services , namely: The Inspector General of the Nigerian Police (1GP), the Directors General (DGs) of the State Security Service (SSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA); the Heads of National Security Associated Federal Government (FG) establishments, namely the Nigerian Civil Defense and Security Corps (NCDSC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigerian Customs and Excise Service, the Nigerian Immigration Services (NIS), the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCS), the National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA), the National Youth Service corps (NYSC), the National Security Adviser (NSA),  the Ministers of Defense, Interior, Police and the respective National Security ministries’ Permanent Secretaries’ which is vested in the 1st Defendant, has been lawfully exercised by the 1st Defendant since the inception of his administration and whether these appointments are in compliance with 81(2), 814(3)(4), 8217(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

They urged the court to award N50billion against the Defendants to represent punitive, aggravated and exemplary damages to the constituents of the Plaintiffs for the illegal, wrongful discriminatory and unconstitutional acts committed by the 1st Defendant against the people of the Plaintiffs’ states and geopolitical zones.

Meanwhile, Justice Okon Abang has fixed July 10 to hear the case, even as he directed Chief Ozekhome, SAN, who represented the plaintiffs on Monday to serve the court processes on all the Defendants.

Ogoni Land Degradation: Amb. Mulade Calls On FG To Speed Clean Up Exercise, Charges Communities To Cooperate with Federal Govt

Ogoni Land Degradation: Amb. Mulade Calls On FG To Speed Clean Up Exercise, Charges Communities To Cooperate with Federal Govt

Francis Tayor

Abuja_____ The National Coordinator of Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ, Comrade Sheriff Mulade has called on the Federal Government to speed up the clean up, remediation and restoration of the degraded Ogoni land in Rivers State, caused by oil and gas exploration activities by multinational oil companies about forty years ago.

Comrade Sheriff Mulade, a traditional High Chief in the Ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom of Delta State made the call in Abuja over the weekend, while speaking with newsmen on the highly devastated Ogoni land. He called for collaboration among the Federal, Rivers State Governments and Communities, federal and State environmental agencies, as well as CSOs and NGOs towards working out modalities to remediate and restore the degraded Ogoni environment for safe habitation.

Analysing the United Nations Environmental Programme, UNEP's scientific investigation and recommendations on Ogoni land, Chief Mulade said forty years after the crude oil spillage in Ogoniland, there are evidences that heavy metals have contaminated the land and ground water, the community's source of drinking water contains a dangerous concentration of benzene substance, nine hundred (900) times  more than the recommended standard for drinking water and the soil contamination is more than five metres deep in many areas that were studied.

Speaking further, he appeals to all stakeholders particularly the people of Ogoni to give maximum support to President Muhammadu Buhari led Federal Government to carry out remediation and clean-ups activities of the land, he said most of the spill sites which the oil companies claimed to have cleaned were still highly polluted. He said there were evidences of oil films showing the dumping of contaminated soil in unlined pits and there are evidences of water being coated with hydrocarbons more than 1000 times the level allowed by Nigeria's drinking water standards.

The  CEPEJ National Coordinator took a swipe on SHELL and other oil multi-nationals over their failure in meeting global environment best practices and standards for remediation. He expressed shock that SHELL and other IOCs which carried out the cleaning, remediation and restoration work on the Ogoni land could not even meet the minimum Nigerian standard or their own specified standard of operation.

While charging the Federal and Rivers State Governments to show more concern for the health of Ogoni people, Chief Sheriff Mulade recommended that the Federal and Rivers State Governments should beef up environmental monitoring and regulations in the country, initiate collaborative actions among the host communities, oil companies and the Government, as well as ensure compliance with environmental guidelines spelt out in operational policies, establish regulatory bodies towards eliminating or minimising the causes of oil spill and making it compulsory for the polluter to pay compensation costs to host communities, State and Federal Governments.

Taskforce lssues Quit Noitce To Illegal Shop Owners In Sapele

Taskforce lssues Quit Noitce To Illegal Shop Owners In Sapele

Delta State Taskforce on Environment on Monday served abatement notice to make-shift traders in Sapele with a 7 days notice to remove all illegal attachments defacing the aesthetics of the ancient city of Sapele.

Addressing the newsmen, the Council Chairman Hon Eugene Inoghan expressed his displeasure over environmental abuses in Sapele.

He said that the council will collaborate with the Taskforce to rid Sapele off make-shift shops as a result of impending flood predicted by NIMET.

On street trading, the council boss said that he is still surprised to see that people left the shops built by the state Government and derives pleasure in trading on the road.

"Now that NIMET had predicted that there will be flooding, I became very worried because our water channels and natural water routes have shanties built on them thereby making it difficult for us to maintain.

"I am very worried that despite the over 1,532 shops built at the Sapele main market by the State government, our people still takes pleasure in trading along the road.

"Our challenges here includes indiscriminate parking of vehicles which has taken major parts of the roads, shop owners building shanties on the drainages as well as pedestrian. It's as bad as this," he stated.

Abatement notices were served on illegal attachments at Adock street, Central Hospital area and main market road.

Responding to questions on when the team may likely commence demolition, the State Taskforce Chairman on Environment Honourable Sylvester Oromoni ably represented by Comr Kingsley Iweka said that the notice is for 7 days.

"At the expiration of the 7 days, we will start demolition as the water level is fast rising and we cannot afford to waste any further time as Sapele market area remains the discharging routes of major water channels.

"Flooding is one of the most important concerns in the ancient city of Sapele because of the varied adverse socio-economic and public health impacts.

"The geographical features of the city including the low-lying topography, coastal location and network of rivers provide the context for the three different types of flood hazards that may likely happen if we go by NIMET predictions.

"We will continue to educate our people by raising public awareness on the risk of residing in low-lying areas threatened by sea-level rise and storm surges," Iweka stressed.

Special Feature: Inside Story Of How Dr. Kingsley Kemebradigha Kuku Rescued The Soul Of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC)

Special Feature: Inside Story Of How Dr. Kingsley Kemebradigha Kuku Rescued The Soul Of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC)

Wisdom Ikuli

The history of the most revered Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) shall be incomplete, doctored and grossly mutilated without the mention of Kingsley Kemebradigha Kuku.

Now, it is important to note that before the formation of IYC, there were so many pro-Ijaw right groups that were fighting against the ills that were perpetrated against our great people. But the need to have a harmonized position on key issues gave birth to IYC.

Some of the groups which also participated in the famous and historic 11th December, 1998 KAIAMA DECLARATION include; Ijaw Council for Human Rights (ICHR), the Movement for the Survival of Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSEIND), Elimotu Movement, Meinbutu, the Ijaw Justice Association, Arogbo Freedom Fighters, Ogbe-Ijoh Justice Front, Ijaw National Congress in the United States of America (INCUSA), Bayelsa Youth Federation (BAYOF), Adaka Marine, Ijaw Peace Movement, Okpolom Imo Engenni, the Nembe 1895 Movement, National Union of Izon-Ibe Students (NUIS), National Union of Bayelsa State Students (NUBSS), etc.

So one will not be wrong if you describe IYC as an embodiment and conglomeration of many groups that were all devoted and committed to the emancipation cum liberation of our great people from economic and political servitude.

Before narrowing to the crux, it is pertinent to highlight the various Epochs, Stages and Phases of the Niger Delta Renaissance and Struggle beginning with the Legitimate cum Slave Trade Era where our great Kings like King Jaja of Opobo, King William Fredrick Koko of Nembe, King Amakiri (Amachree) of Kalabari, King Ibanichuka of Okrika, King Akalisuo of Okarki-Engenni, King Nana of Itsekiri, Oba Ovoramwen N'gbaisi of Benin and other Kings fought against the European explorers, adventurers and imperialists.

The Second Epoch which was the Intellectual Phase of the struggle was led by High Chief Harold Dappa-Biriye, Chief (Sen.) Dr. Melford Obiene Okilo, HRM Frank Opigo, Prof. JP Clark through his intellectual works.

The Third Epoch which was Armed Struggle against the Nigerian State was led by Major Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro, Captain George Amangala, Captain Boardman Nyananyo, Captain Samuel Owonaru, Lieutenant Nottingham Dick and others in the Twelve Day Revolution that led to the declaration of the first Country (Niger Delta Republic) in Nigeria after the post-1914 Amalgamation of Northern and Southern Protectorates.

The Fourth Epoch which is the Ogoni Struggle was led by Kenule Beesom Saro-Wiwa.

 The Fifth Epoch which I describe as the Reawakening Renaissance Era after the formation of the MOVEMENT FOR THE SURVIVAL OF THE IJAW ETHNIC NATIONALITY IN THE NIGER DELTA (MOSEIND) was led by Chief (Elder) Timi Kay Ogoriba. MOSEIND activities and its ability to mobilize and also reunite all Ijaw people after the Boro Revolution of 1966, led to the formation of the most revered IJAW  YOUTH COUNCIL (IYC). But before IYC, our great leaders and fathers like Chief Dr. Harold Dappa-Biriye who was getting old by then alongside Chief F.H.E Brisibe, Chief George A. Weikezi started the movement for the formation of the exalted IJAW NATIONAL CONGRESS (INC). The historic meetings of 25th, 29th and 30th October, 1991 that gave birth to INC were held at the residence of Chief George A. Weikezi at No. 29 Calcutta Crescent, Apapa-Lagos.

The Sixth Epoch which is fused with the 7th Phase is the Contemporary Struggle where Chief Timi Kay Ogoriba, Barr. Oronto Natei Oronto, Dr. Felix Tuodolo, Dr. Kingsley Kuku, Dr. Isaac Asume Osuoka aka Thomas Sankara, Dr. Patterson Ogon, Sergeant Weinipre Digifa, Kuromiema Miabiye, Famous Daunemigha, Ebi Waribigha, Alhaji Asari Dokubo, Ann Kio-Briggs, Mummy Primrose Kpokposei, Elfreda Olungwe, Rosebella Jackson, Dr. Oboko Bello, Elder Tunde Anaye-Kio aka CIA, Dimieari Von Kemedi, King Ateke Michael Tom, Chief Government Ekpemupolo aka Tompolo GOC, Henry Okah, Patrick Ziedekie Akpobolekemi, Hendrick Opukeme, Peterside Sofiri, Doifie Buokaribo, Nnimmo Bassey and other leaders led and also played the most prominent and very commendable roles.

The above list shall be incomplete without paying tribute to Chief (Dr.) M.T. Akobo a refined Ijaw man from Kalabari Kingdom. He was a former Federal Minister of Petroleum. He was the owner of No. 13 Agudama Street in D/Line, Diobu Port Harcourt. ERA office was situate there and later, Alhaji (Alabo) Mujahid Asari Dokubo also occupied part of the building. This great leader beside giving out his building free to serve as a meeting place for Ijaw youths also served as father to all Ijaw youths without discrimination. He was even arrested because of IYC.

ACHIEVEMENTS OF IYC

Thousands of Ijaw youths and non-Ijaws have gained employments through IYC. Same way many have gotten University scholarships both home and abroad through IYC. One cannot count university admissions that are secured through IYC but above all, IYC has helped to foster peace and unity among Ijaw youths.

DR. KINGSLEY KEMEBRADIGHA KUKU AND IYC

Beside contributing and also making immeasurable and invaluable sacrifices before and during the formative stage of IYC, Elder Kingsley Kemebradigha Kuku has remained a strong pillar behind the success story of IYC.

IYC would have been history but for the strategic role that Kuku played during the 2010 National Convention at Ogulagha in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.

Before then, some individuals wanted to hijack the Council to front and also promote their inordinate ambitions.

In the history of IYC, there have never been any election where Delegates were paid up to Three Hundred Thousand (#300,000) Naira by an Aspirant except in that election.

Some notable Aspirants in that election drove on long convoys and spent Millions of Naira on campaign. It would have been an election where the highest Bidders would have had the day. I remember, I contested for the revered Office of the National Spokesman with four other noble Ijaw youths and came second.

Dr. Kingsley Kemebradigha Kuku as the Chairman of the Electoral Committee never allowed the money bags to influence him. He stood his ground and insisted on doing the right thing. He never allowed anybody to influence him. Almost all Ijaw leaders in the struggle were there. Even Chief Government Ekpemupolo aka Tompolo GOC was in Ogulagha his maternal community, even though he never went close to the venue. Ironically, his Candidate for Secretary General  failed.

Chief (Hon.) Farah Dagogo was also at the venue of the election but his presence did not save his presidential Candidate: Eferebo.

Alhaji Asari Dokubo's presence never influenced the victory of his wife Mrs. Caroline Asari Dokubo aka Mama Aluta who won with less than five votes due to her popularity and sacrifices in the struggle.

General Sobomabo Jackreece aka General Egberipapa also failed the IYC Presidency during that election.

We had a replay of almost the above scene at Okrika during the 2017 National Convention that was hosted by King Ateke Michael Tom who spent millions to host thousands of Ijaw youths for days but ironically, none of his Candidates won. The Elder Ebi Waribigha aka Skido never allowed external influence. They conducted a free, fair and credible election.

The forthcoming 2020 National Convention of IYC should be a great thing of concern to all sons and daughters of the Ijaw nation especially the way and manner some elders and leaders of IYC are going about the process.

IYC can never be sold to the highest bidder. IYC is presently serving as the most vocal mouthpiece of our great people, thus we can never make the mistake of handing over IYC to few persons who want to use the Council to further their personal inordinate ambitions. We cannot hand over IYC to any President who will do the biddings of external forces who want to use IYC to promote their personal agenda.

We want an IYC President that is well grounded on the issues of the Niger Delta Question. We want an IYC President that is very experienced. We want a President that is eloquent, articulate, vibrant, courageous, audacious, sagacious and very vast. We want a President that can stand and address the United Nations General Assembly, the US Congress and any other congregation. We want an IYC President that will be a Resource Person wherever he goes as a Worthy Ambassador of the Ijaw nation.

We do not want a President that belong or identify with any political party. We do not want a President that is sponsored by an individual and will later serve as a stooge and puppet to those individuals. We want a President that will be President and Servant of all Ijaw people. We want a President that will truly serve as the CROWN PRINCE OF THE IJAW NATION and not a stooge and puppet to any individual.

Haa Izon!

Most Senior Comrade Wisdom Oniekpar Ikuli
Former National Director of Mobilization & Chairman, Action Committee IJAW YOUTH COUNCIL (IYC) WORLDWIDE cum Mirror and Conscience of Society.

Panic ln Govt. House As Delta SSG, Information Commissioner Test Positive To COVID-19

Panic ln Govt. House As Delta SSG, Information Commissioner Test Positive To COVID-19


As Delta State Government intensifies efforts at combating the spread of COVID-19 in the state, it said on Sunday that two top officials of government had tested positive to the virus.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, who made this known in a statement in Asaba, named the officials as Secretary to the State Government, Mr Chiedu Ebie and Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu.

Ifeajika said both officials showed mild symptoms of the virus and consequently subjected themselves to the test.

He said that both men had been moved to an isolation centre and were stable, and responding well to treatment.

Ifeajika called on residents of the state to adhere strictly to the COVID-19 protocols as anyone, irrespective of status, could contract the virus.

"Let me advise all Deltans to, as a matter of top priority, always obey the COVID-19 protocols, which have been in public domain, so as to curb further spread of the pandemic.

"The fresh cases in our hands in Delta further testifies to the fact that COVID-19 is not a scam. It is real and people should take the issues of the virus and personal hygiene seriously.

"COVID-19 is not a death sentence; so, when you begin to feel unwell, reach out to approved government hospitals for appropriate tests to be carried out.

"We can save ourselves and others from this virus if we obey all the protocols of wearing face masks, regular washing of hands in running water, use of alcohol-based sanitisers and maintaining physical-distancing while congregating in any form.

"All our hospitals and isolation centres across the state are on 24 hours alert to receive any case(s) of the Coronavirus or other health challenges," he stated.