NDDC saga: Group raises alarm of plot to divert IOCs monthly remittance in EFCC custody

NDDC saga: Group raises alarm of plot to divert IOCs monthly remittance in EFCC custody

The people of the Niger Delta oil rich region have risen alarm of planned diversion of millions of dollars in the custody of Economic and finance crime commission (EFCC) belong ing to Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) which paid by International Oil Companies (IOCs) for the past six months following directive by federal government to stop remitting NDDC until final investigation on the current financial mismanagement of NDDC's  IMC is over.

vowed to stage a demonstration to the streets the non-remittance of funds paid by the International Oil Companies to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

 National Coordinator of Ijaw Interest Advocate, otherwise called Izanzan camp  Amb. Arerebo Salaco Yerinmene, and the Chairman Emeritus of Ijaw Youth Congress, IYC, Eastern Zone and National President of Patriotic Ijaw Youth Leaders disclosed during a press conference in Warri at the weekend had  accused the anti-graft agency of diversion of funds meant for the development of the region, urging the President Muhammadu Buhari to investigate the issue and stop the injustice melting on the people of Niger Delta region.

 Sir Sammy George, in Yenagoa, alleged that the Interim Management Committee of NDDC has been restricted from having access to IOC's funds for about six months now following law enforcement agencies recommendation.

The group noted that the collective sensibility has been taken for granted and jeopardized, while fingering some ministers from the region to conniving with the EFCC in the diversion of IOC for personal reasons.

The group vowed "we shall never, for any reason, allow anybody, for any reason whatsoever, to impoverish us further and any further attempt to loot the commonwealth of our people, we shall resort to occupying the streets of the Niger Delta. We shall use all means necessary to fight against this move, if it is not stopped immediately". 

The group reemphasized that they will not allow anybody or institution, for any reason whatsoever, to impoverish the people of Niger Delta through executive corrupt practices, looting the commonwealth of our people. We shall resist every force against our development, even in the midst of persecution, relegation and oppression, as we have resolved to occupy the streets of the Niger Delta to disrupt the operation of the IOC's and their facilities until such perceived broad day light manoeuvring of funds is stopped.

The statement reads in part:

''As we go down to express our fears, I want to believe that we are all genuinely in this challenging course, targeted to change the ugly narratives of our all-round developmental deprivation.

Going further, "We are all here to express our fears exhaustively over the way and manner the Niger Delta region is being treated. We are all here to openly reject how we are being treated as second class citizens in this country. We are all here to unveil to the Nigerian state how the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, in alliance  with the some ministers is said to be diverting funds belonging to the Niger Delta region for whatever strange reasons we don't know. If this is really true, we want our dear President to investigate and do justice to this matter. 

"Having postulated the reason why we have reassembled here, I want to clearly  open to Nigerians, particularly Niger Deltans, that our collective sensibility has been taken for granted and jeopardized by these group of people. 

However,  by this information, "We are stating that if our information is true, there is a rumour that the IOC's paid remittance funds meant for  the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to  the EFCC Gauranty Trust Bank (GTB) account months ago and we are also aware of their plans over this strange and worrisome development, therefore it is in their  best interest to return the remitted funds to the appropriate quarter in the Commission. 

" It will specifically shock the general public, especially Niger Deltans, to know that over the last six (6) months,  the NDDC's Interim Management Committee (IMC) has been restricted from having access to IOC's remitted funds by the directive of the Presidency, following law enforcement agencies recommendation. 

"Despite all the looting going on in the country, we are very shocked that President Buhari is yet to act as expected by the peace loving people of the Niger Delta, thus we still believe that the needful will be done soon enough. 

"If the information is correct, we are calling on all Niger Deltans to rise up against this gang up against our development as a people.  

"For clarity purposes, information in our situation room clearly reveals that over a month ago, all the IOCs' remitted to the mother host of all the IOCs across the nation, which is the NNPC. The NNPC credited the remittances to the EFCC Gauranty Trust Bank (GTB) account.

"And as we speak, instead of some  ministers that have hint on the matter  to be patriotic in reporting this questionable move, they decided to be part and parcel of impoverishing the Niger Delta region in collaboration with very strange elements in the Nigerian State.

"In as much as the development of the North-East, through the North-East Development Commission, is a top priority to the northerners, the develoment of the oil rich-Niger Delta region is also a top priority to us. As such, any attempt to embezzle the IOCs' remittances, we shall take over the streets of Niger Delta with peaceful protests.

"Therefore, we are calling on President Buhari to heed our call and pay attention to our revelations and take necessary actions to stop further looting at the NDDC. We are ever ready to confront any force set against the development of our oil-rich region, especially when the ordeals of the revelations of the massive looting of the commonwealth of the people is still fresh in our memories, a situation that kept us wondering if the Presidency is celebrating corruption, thereby putting a serious credibility question on the government's acclaimed anti-corruption war. We are beginning to wonder if the said anti-corruption crusade is a reality or a hoax. 

" To this end, we are appealing to President Buahri to look into this matter by  not allowing anyone to  tamper with the IOCs fund, which is primary meant for the development of the oil-rich Niger Delta region". They said.

Miss Sovereignty Killing: IPDI Demands For Justice, Calls On IGP To Prosecute, Disband Oviwan Vigilante Group

Miss Sovereignty Killing: IPDI Demands For Justice, Calls On IGP To Prosecute, Disband Oviwan Vigilante Group

 

Warri____ A  Renowned human right group under the aegis of Ijaw People's Development Initiative, IPDI, has vehemently condemned the killing of one Miss Sovereignty Iseregbe, a native of Isaba community by the Ovwian Vigilante group.

The group via its National Secretary, Comr. Keneware Emmanuel in a press release made available to newsmen on Tuesday in warri, demanded justice for the extra-judicial killing of Miss Sovereignty.

IPDI added that human life is sacred and sacrosanct, hence, for a security outfit to deliberately claimed the live of an innocent civilian means that such security outfit is inexperienced, brutally tasty for blood and had no respect for human life.

The group therefore called on the lnspector General of police, Delta State Commissioner of police to arrest, prosecute and disband the Ovwian Vigilante group with immediate effects.

"It's very glaring that the untimely and the extrajudicial killing of miss Sovereignty Iseregbe is capable of fomenting crisis and disrupting the peace moves between Aladja, Ogbe-Ijoh and Isaba communities.

IPDI further reiterated call on the CP Delta State to quickly disband the vigilante group and the perpetrators be brought to book with immediate alarcrity.

Gov. Okowa's aide, Ozobo blasts Buhari over illegal Zamfara 5billion gold deals

Gov. Okowa's aide, Ozobo blasts Buhari over illegal Zamfara 5billion gold deals

The Special assistant to the governor of Delta State, His Excellency senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa on political matters, Comrade Ozobo Austin has said that president Muhammadu Buhari now lacks power to proscribed artisanal refineries in Niger Delta region for supporting and endorsing illegal gold mining in Zamfara and Kebbi states.

Ozobo added in a press statement that the Federal government open endorsement on the Zamfara illegal gold mining had automatically legalized Niger Delta artisanal refineries. 

Comrade Ozobo who is also a foremost Niger Delta Agitator asserted that the Federal government who now ordered CBN to buy 5billion gold from Zamfara government, despite the prohibiting laws of state control of solid mineral resources, does not had power to declared Niger Delta artisanal refineries illegal.

The activist said the Federal government had unlawfully launched the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Development Initiative (PAGMI) in Zamfara and Kebbi states which is a comprehensive artisanal and small-scale gold mining development programme, initiated in 2019 to foster the formalisation and integration of artisanal gold mining activities into Nigeria’s legal, economic, and institutional framework.

Ozobo said Niger Delta artisanal oil refineries operators need same presidential artisanal oil refineries development initiative, PAORDI, as a comprehensive artisanal and small scale oil refining development programme if Buhari is not biased.

He further posited that the Federal government, in collaboration with the Kebbi State Government had already inaugurated the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining and Biometric Data Capture and Enrolment Exercise in Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi in February this year.

The statement reads in part: "it should be noted that Federal government of Nigeria has loss power to proscribe Artisanal refinery operation in Niger Delta, so long the Federal government does not see anything wrong with illegal gold mining in Zamfara state"

"I made it clear in my recent interview with ActionAid international, an international organization, when its coordinator and other team members visited me in Warri during the weekend, While discussing other sundry issues, I draw my inference from Zamfara illegal gold deals by the Federal government"

"The Federal government action on the Zamfara illegal gold mining has automatically legalized Niger Delta artisanal refineries. The Federal government who now ordered CBN to buy 5billion gold from Zamfara government, despite the prohibiting laws of state control of solid mineral resources, do not has power to declare Niger Delta artisanal refineries illegal"

"There is truly a saying that he that comes to equity must come with a clean hands. What is good for the goose is good for the gander. I told ActionAid international that my people will resisted further attacks on our local oil refineries, except the Federal government do the needful by clamping down on  Zamfara illegal gold dealers,  makes Zamfara gold a national cake and the proceeds shared among all federating states in the country"

"I told ActionAid international that our oil is no longer for all, if Zamfara gold is not for all. This is injustice of the highest order, and would be further resisted with all vehements"

"It should be noted again that since the military and the sectional government of Nigeria federation are okay with the illegal gold mining activities in Zamfara state, my people in Niger Delta should be equally allowed to go into local refining of crude oil without molestation"

"Therefore, I call on Niger Delta governors, lawmakers and youth elites to support this campaign and demand for Niger Delta States control of state resources and continued to resist further destruction of local refineries in Niger Delta by the Federal government"

Commander Biggy Appreciate Friends, Well Wishers On Son's Dedication ln Warri

Commander Biggy Appreciate Friends, Well Wishers On The Occasion Of His Son's Dedication

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ The Chief Executive Officer CEO/Chairman Biggy Foundation Worldwide, Double Chief. Ebi Pinapinawei alias Commander Biggy has expressed his profound gratitude to friends, family members and well wishers as they honoured him on the occasion of his son's dedication, Master Wealth Tamaramiensinde Ebi Pinapinawei during the week end.

The epoch making event took place on sunday 15th at Salem City Church Usiefrun, in Udu local government area of Delta State attracted many dignitaries far and near across the Niger Delta region, especially from Ekeni, Egbema and Gbaramantu kingdoms precisely.

After christening the child in the church, friends and well wishers of Mr/Mrs. Ebi Praise Pinapinawei where given an exceptional reception at the popular Peabody hotel in Udu, with varieties of delicacy, such as pepper soup, kpomo sauce, jollof rice, assorted drinks as well as a blend of ljaw high life owigiri music live band entertainment from the likes of Chief. Joseph Ekeremieye, Sir. Coded Buku Tubor, Endurance Isaiah aka young Karinto, young Joseph Endurance Fiyebo, Jnr lzonebi, Jnr born singer among others.

The guests where carried away at the reception as the Aleibiri Bayelsa born talented comedian, Akpenzigha Gabriel Eyerinbikekeme popularly known as Mr Right, MC Tonbra alongside MC Abioka seized the central stage with their superlative performances as they display rib cracking jokes to spice up the event.  

Other heart blowing side attraction was when Commander Biggy three beautiful wives in unity and love dance to the rhethyms of their wonderful husband as he took over the stage with his anticipating latest album to the admiration of the invited guests. According to Biggy, said his latest album would be released on or before 15th December, 2020 and the songs are dedicated to his wives as he found unity, peace and love among them.

However, among some personalities present at the occasion include; Chief. Jonah Jack from Ekeni kingdom, Kingsley Amakiri, Valentine Amaegberi, Comr. Oyinbi Onduku, Chief Alhaji. Yusuf Eregbene, Comr.  Isaac Seiyefa, Prince Austin Ozobo, Mokondo June, Enaibo Asiayei, Engr. Andrew Bebenemibo, Comr. Gilor Kelly, Comr. Paul Akpowaide, Hon. Jigbale, Hon. Austin Sule, Mrs. Felix Bebenemibo, Mrs. Simeon Bebenemibo among others too numerous to mentioned.

Constitution Amendment: Ozobo Calls for Split of Burutu LGA into Burutu North, South, Central

Constitution Amendment: Ozobo Calls for Split of Burutu LGA into Burutu North, South, Central

Warri_____ The President of Ijaw People's Development initiative, IPDI, Comrade Ozobo Austin has thrown his weight behind the call for the split of Burutu Local government areas into two or three LGA, being one of the largest and the oldest LGAs in the country.

The right activist in an interview called on Delta South senator, Sen.James Manager, and Hon. Julius Pondi, member House of representatives, presenting Burutu Federal constituency to ceased the medium of the constitution amendment to agitate for the split of Burutu LGA to two or three separate LGAs.

Ozobo said almost all the LGAs created much more later after the creation of Burutu in Delta State had been splited into two or more but Burutu case remained a sad tale.

The group said the LGA be splited into Burutu North, Burutu South and Burutu Central, being one of the largest and oldest LGAs in the country. 

He said there was no better times than now to agitate for the split of Burutu LGA into two or more LGAs.

Ozobo added that Burutu LGA has been overdued to be splited into two or three separate LGAs in Delta State but had suffered backlash and neglected during creation of additional LGAs in the country.

Master Wealth Pinapinawei Goes To Church On Sunday 15th, As Biggy lnvites Well Wishers

Master Wealth Pinapinawei Goes To Church On Sunday 15th, As Biggy lnvites Well Wishers

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ The families of Mr/Mrs. Double Chief. Ebi Praise Pinapinawei has invited loved ones, friends, well wishers and the general public to the dedication of their son, Master Wealth Pinapinawei to God on Sunday 15th November, 2020.

In a statement released on Friday signed by Commander Biggy, noted that the dedication will start by 8:am prompt, first Mass service at Salem City Church, Oruwhorun along Usiefrun road, opp Winferu Filling station in Udu local government area of Delta State.

The statement further adds that there shall be a warm reception immediately after the Mass Service at Pee-Body Hotels, along Udu express road, Warri.

However, by this notice, Mr/Mrs. Biggy Pinapinawei is using this medium to invite family and friends to join them thank God and celebrate as they take Master Wealth Pinapinawei to Church.

Signed:

Double Chief. Ebi Pinapinawei, the Abade lgere 1 of Niger Delta.

DESIEC Proposes 1billion For Delta State LGA Polls Early 2021

DESIEC Proposes 1billion For Delta State LGA Polls Early 2021

Francis Tayor

Asaba_____ The Delta State Independent Electoral Commission, DESIEC has proposed the sum of one billion, One Hundred and Forty Seven million naira for the conduct of the forthcoming Local Government Councils election in the State.

The Chairman of the Commission, Chief Mike Ogbodu, who disclosed this while defending the 2021 budget proposal before the State House of Assembly Committee on Establishment, Ethics and Privileges, Chaired by the Minority Leader, Hon Innocent Anidi, said the election is to hold early next year.

 

“The DESIEC boss, Chief Mike Ogbodu said nine hundred million naira is proposed for the conduct of the elections, while two hundred and forty-seven million naira is for related activities, including legal matters, post election seminars, trainings among others.

Briefing the House Committee members on the activities of the Commission in the 2020 fiscal year as well as its projections for 2021, Chief Ogbodu said that the Commission is already putting measures in place towards achieving seamless Local Government election in the State.

He stated that the Commission is already considering possible date early next year for the proposed date for the Local Government election in the State, hence the proposed amount to be captured in the 2021 Appropriation law.

The DSIEC boss said the thirty two point five cap limit given to the Commission to spend as capital expenditure for 2021 was inadequate and stressed the need for increase amongst other demands.

“The Chairman of the Committee, Hon Innocent Anidi, while commending DSIEC for its roles so far, urged it to sustain the tempo, particularly in the forth coming Local Government elections in the State.

For his part, a members of the Committee, Hon Reuben Izeze urged the Commission to continue to uphold its integrity as an independent institution in the discharge of its duties.

Hon Izeze also charged the officials to strive to maintain absolute independent of the Commission in its operations

The DSIEC boss was accompanied to the State House of Assembly Complex, the venue of the budget defense session by Commissioners in the Commission and other management team.

Okowa Aide, Ozobo To Organize Youth Leadership/Media Training Seminar In Burutu

Gov. Okowa Aide, Ozobo To Sponsor Youth Leadership/Media Training Seminar In Burutu

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ Delta State Government, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, through the office of the Special Assistant to the governor on political matters, led by Comrade Austin Ozobo is set to organize the first strategic communication workshop in Burutu Local Government Area of the state.

According to the Special Assistant, said the one day seminar is designed to enhance the capacity and performance of internal and external social media influencers, online publishers and bloggers in the state.

He added that the program is to build youth leadership capacity as to prepare Burutu youths to accept responsibility in the nearest future.

The Theme of the Programme is tagged : "Youths As The Engine Of Growth In The Society".

The 1st Lecture is titled:  'Secure Tommorow By Building The Youth today'. The guest speaker is Pst. Edewor Egedegbe, Execute Director/director of Studies, Value Rebirth Centre Lsd Leadership School, Effurun Warri.

The 2nd Lecture is titled: '

News Writing And Online Journalism'. The guest speaker is Mr. Ekpanpou.E. Enewaredideke, A Writer.

Venue of the programme: Joemarine lnstitute, along Airport Road, Ogboroke Warri.

Date: 10th December, 2020.

Time: 10:am.

Launch Time:1: pm

However, the programme is organized by the Office Of The Special Assistant (SA) To The Governor On Political Matters, led by distinguished Comrade  Austin Ozobo.

Just-ln: Taskforce Demolishes illegal Shops Along Airport Road, Warrri

Just-ln: Taskforce Demolishes illegal Shops Along Airport Road, Warrri 

Warri_____ Members of Delta State Taskforce on Environment in the early hours on Wednesday has demolished illegal shops attached to buildings at Ogboroke, in Uvwie Local Government Area of the State.

The operation led by the state Chairman, Hon. Sylvester Oromoni and his team evacuated all illegal shops attached to fences along Omotor street, off Airport road Warri, thereby clearing half of the road occupied by illegal shops. 

Speaking during the exercise, Oromoni warned shop owners to trade in their stores, stressing that anyone caught henceforth extending their shops would be arrested by law enforcement agencies in order to face the heavy weight of the law. 

He reiterated that Gov. Okowa led state government is trying his best to give the city of warri and its environs a befitting outlook, noting that anyone who want to thwart the effort of the government would be severely dealt with, Oromoni stated.

However, those accompanied the Chairman during the operation include; Hon. Frank Alale, Madame Philomena, Mr. Michael Oyimor, Mr. Destiny among others.

Tompolo Charges Religious Leaders To Preach Love, Stop Heresies And Religious Extortation

Tompolo Charges Religious Leaders To Preach Love, Stop Heresies And Religious Extortation

Warri_____ Spiritual leader of Ijaw traditional religion, High Chief Oweizidei Ekpemupolo alias Tompolo has appealed to leaders of various religious groups to herald Love, truth and not propagate heresies for the purpose of extortation and fame.

He admonished religious leaders against use of fear sermons, which he decried as a tool to coerce worshippers/adherents for pecuniary gains.

He noted that tithes, offerings, alms, should not be the focal point of religious teachings, but the message of the Mother's love, which he highlighted as an integral aspect of the Godhead that is being neglected.

He added that enforcement of the Mother's love teachings, would liberate worshippers, the society from the shackles of fear, anger, hatred, violence and usher in the atmosphere and era of Love, peace, understanding and unity of purpose.

He again advised religious leaders to be prudent and truthful to inform worshippers that the nature of God is inherent in every man, and teach them how to harness this potential for the good of mankind, the universe and not continue to feed them with heresies and imprisoning their minds.

Tompolo further stated that one major contributor to the animosity and acrimony breeding amongst humans was the too much concentration on the father aspect of the Godhead which he mentioned as, Judgmental, rigid, strict and decisive, adding that people should begin to awaken the Mother's love consciousness in them, as the both aspects are needed to serve as balance.

Tompolo gave this message at the festival of Bini-Ebi, Ijaw Goddess of Love and purity, at Ogulagha kingdom, he prayed for Mother's love upon every household and also prayed for Prosperity, tranquility and understanding amongst all and peace to all Nigerians, the world.

Tompolo concluded by advising political office holders to be Messengers rather than rulers, he counsels them to take decisions that will reflect positively in the lives of the masses and not add to their burdens.

The report was contained in a statement released by the Apostolic duo of Ellington Bakumor and Bodmas kemepadei

Stop Misinforming Okowa Over Developmental Issues, Mulade Tells Political Appointees

Stop Misinforming Okowa Over Developmental Issues, Mulade Tells Political Appointees

...... Expresses Disappointment Over Slow Pace Of Development ln The State Compared To Rivers, Akwa-lbom etc.

Francis Tayor

 

Asaba_____ A Delta State born human and environmental right activist, Comrade Mulade Sheriff has appealed to political appointees of  Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa of Delta State to sincerely and genuinely encourage the governor to do the needful in terms of roads infrastructures development in the State.

Comrade Mulade Sheriff made the call in Asaba, the state capital, said as a Deltan, I am highly disappointed whenever I move across the state in terms of roads infrastructural developments. What's on ground cannot quantify and represent true revenue allocations in terms of developments and what we read on papers and see in documentaries as road master.

It is imperative to call and appeal to all Government politicial appointees in the state to genuinely summon courage to tell Governor Ifeanyi Okowa the level of displeasure and disappointment as expressed by Deltans. I strongly believe that the essence of their appointments is to work as field soldiers to the Governor to enable him achieve his political promises but it is unfortunate that what we experience today are political eye service appointees, thereby misleading the Governor to feel all is well in public domains.

It is understandable that as a Governor he may not be at every point to observe and collate the needs of Deltans but it is the primary responsibility of political appointees to genuinely brief the Governor with the expectations, needs and challenges of the people but reverse is the case because of political sycophancy.

While expressing disappointment over the level of developments in the state in spite of her huge resources, he said, the state cannot genuinely record the expected developmental growths compared to some of her counterpart states in the region such as Rivers, Akwa Ibom etc. He said, as a bonafide son of the soil, I am not pleased with the level of developments especially in Asaba the state capital, Warri the commercial nerve of the state, Sapele, Emunede, Ughelli, Bomadi, Burutu, Koko, Ogbe-Ijoh etc

I want to strongly appeal to our political office holders to stop political attacks, blackmails, lip service and genuinely work to encourage, support and promote developments that will engender peaceful coexistence, which Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has reasonably strived to achieve in the state.

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa should as a matter of urgency kindly listen to the yearnings of Deltans in terms of roads developments and should not see some of us who draw his attention to fundamental issues of developments as political enemies or anti government but as voices of the people and stakeholders.

King Pereama Freetown Appreciates Fans, Friends, Well Wishers As He Marks 50th Birthday

King Pereama Freetown Appreciates Fans, Friends, Well Wishers As He Marks 50th Birthday

Yenagoa____ The Numupere ll of lzonebe owigiri highlife music, King. Pereama Freetown JP, has send his heart warm regards and appreciation to all who celebrated his Golden jubilee birthday on the 7th of November, 2020 at Yenagoa, Bayelsa State Capital. He further appreciated all those who celebrated him on social media, phone calls, text messages, Instagram, WhatsApp and otherwise.

The King specially appreciates the surprise birthday party organized  by his beloved wife, Queen Premier Pereama, Okemiyen osia and others who made out time to celebrate with him. 

Special appreciation to Engr. Victor Warefa who was with the Zone 5 Chairman, Hon. Engr. Ziperedein Abilo at his residence in Ofunama for the celebration.

All members of King Pereama fans Club worldwide, lovers of Pereama Freetown Jp, family members and members of the Ijaw music industry.

To all our social media promoters and those who have constantly supported us with the print media, especially Niger-delta Mirror Ndm, Kpoka media reporters, Ijaw Voice online news paper, Chief Mike Ekiye a.k.a Izon duo pagha keme donba, Comrade Peresine Watchman and Mrs. Keneke Angela nee Pereama and all the members of the family.

God bless everyone abundantly, this year shall not be the last of our celebrations but shall mark out a new beginning for all of us.

Finally, all thanks to God almighty for his infinite mercies and grace for keeping us strong despite the pandemic, flood, protests, hunger etc. We pray for grace to see the new year in good health and prosperity like never before.

Fans oyee!!

Commander Biggy Celebrates Son, Master Daniel As He Clocks 3, Appreciates Well wishers

Commander Biggy Celebrates Son, Master Daniel As He Clocks 3, Appreciates Well wishers

Francis Tayor

Warri____ A foremost ex-Niger Delta agitator cum philanthropist, Double Chief. Ebi Pinapinawei, alias Commander Biggy  during the week end celebrated his son, master Daniel Wilson Pinapinawei as he clocks three years old.

The surprise warm birthday reception package took place on Sunday at Omaks Hotel, along NBTC road, off Ovwian in Udu local government area of Delta State, attracted loved ones, friends and well wishers of Mr/Mrs. Pinapinawei Laurent families of Ekeni in Southern ljaw LGA and Egbema in Warri North LGA of Delta and Bayelsa State.

It was a gathering of a lot of talents as the popular Aleibiri Bayelsa born comedian, Tare Ebiyerin aka Mr. Right as he cease the stage with his usual comedy style, 'Make Una Fear God oooo' to the amusement of all invited guests at the occasion.

Meanwhile, Sir. Joseph Ekeremieye (Chief.) was not left out alongside Jnr. Izoenebi, Biggy the king Robby of our time, Comrade Owolotubor,  High Chief. Usuf Eregbene and Darlin Gid thrilled the audience to their maximum satisfaction as they mount the live band stage with spectacular performance of latest ljaw owigiri highlife music accompanied with amazing dance steps.

The young charming, fresh, healthy ebony color looking good celebrant master Daniel Pinapinawei (Biggy jnr), could not hide his feelings of joy as he run round the arena with his peers to add more side attraction to the occasion.

However, Mr/Mrs. Biggy Pinapinawei also use this medium to expressed appreciation to those who turn up to celebrate with them, adding that may God in his infinite mercy bless them at the point of their needs, statement added.

Delta 2023: Olologun Kenneth Gbagi, The Man Who The Cap Fit

Delta 2023: Olologun Kenneth Gbagi, The Man Who The Cap Fit

Nigeria, Delta_____ As the battle to settle for the successor of Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa rages on, there is a burning desire amongst Deltans to opt for a trustworthy and reliable politician with the resume to match the performance of Chief James Ibori and Felix Ibru who were past Governors of Delta State.

Against this backdrop, the rumbling clamour as to which Senatorial District would produce the next Governor in 2023 was nipped in the bud when the Delta State Chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) zoned same to Delta Central Senatorial District.

The decision was in keeping with the zoning formula hitherto adopted during the Ibori-led administration which saw the rotation of power between the three Senatorial Districts in the State.

The agreement in view of the PDP’s recent consensus remains unbroken and nipped mounting pressures of requests for zoning on the basis of ethnicity, one which otherwise would have been counterproductive and damaging for the party.

Those who met to agree on the zoning of the Governorship to Delta Central reached the agreement after resolving to reject the imposition of a candidate on the party by major power brokers within the State.

It was gathered that doing so would encourage persons with the requisite credentials to be projected on the basis of merit and past achievements, and nothing short of same, so as to sustain the tempo of development already stirred by previous administrations.

So far, out of those who have indicated interest to contest the Governorship election in 2023, only one stands out in view of his visible track records which sets him aside from his contemporaries.

It is however embarrassing that some whose foot prints are yet to be seen in their constituencies, and do not have the requisite competence or what takes to win such elections are warming up to indicate interest to contest.

What is even more disturbing is the fact that these persons are present appointees of the state government without the required financial wherewithal to slug it out with the opposition party, All Progressives Congress (APC), to ensure a win at the polls.

Other considerations which they do not meet are those anchored on their contributions to the development of their immediate communities and how much they’ve done to improve the lives of citizens in the state.

No doubt, some of them will be put to shame at the poll, particularly those planted to disempower opponents whose status or position stands a threat to their devious schemings.

Unfortunately, some very desperate ones have resorted to using blackmail in order to stop competent candidates from contesting the governorship election in 2023.

It will be crude, barbaric and oppressive if at this time, some politicians still believe that imposition and Godfatherism is a better source of winning election. This method does not show one’s popularity, capability and competency in governance.

A typical example was in 2015 governorship election when David Edevbie was openly supported by the incumbent governor and the majority of his ethnic group, but was defeated at the primaries.

He lost woefully to the present Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa because he (Okowa) is more popular and resourceful.

This is also not to leave out the support Okowa enjoyed from people like Kenneth Gbagi, a serial industrialist and one-time Minister for Education.

It is also disturbing that some people who may not have known much, have started dancing around these characters who lack effective leadership qualities needed to actualize good governance in the State. Since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, most politicians whose only source of income is politics do not think of investing in their respective states so as to provide employment for the teeming youths.

Rather, they focus their energies on how to be rotated in political offices.

A few of them who tried to have investments preferred to do so in Europe and other African countries than Nigeria.

Deltans will forever remember some of our indigenous industrialists like Edewor, Uloho, Ibru, Onosode and so on. Others who share their vision include Aliko Dangote, Dantata, Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Kenneth Gbagi, Igbenedion among others who continue to provide employment in the country.

With Kenneth Gbagi fully keyed into contesting the Governorship election in Delta State, the aspirations of unpopular contestants can only come to reality if Gbagi who believes in philanthropy and Job creation lacks same credentials.

Apart from possessing the qualities of compassion and empathy, his zeal for job creation places him as the most prepared and qualified aspirant within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) who satisfies the zoning formula. Gbagi’s support and contribution towards the growth of the PDP since its inauguration in 1999 attests to his commitment and sacrifice made over the years as a reliable party man.

When the cry of hunger caused by the lockdown ravaged the homes of Deltans, Kenneth Gbagi rose to the occasion as the first and only business mogul and politician who used his personal money to buy food items of various kinds as palliatives across the 25 local government areas of Delta State. He went as far as paying the bills of patients in various hospitals and also provided money to cover surgical costs for sick people who are with chronic ailments.

The masses are easily satisfied. They require jobs and stability to make them happy. Gbagi’s empathy for humanity manifested severally in appeals to the federal government to intensify efforts on how the incessant killings in Southern kaduna, the attacks of Boko Haram and the Fulani herdsmen as well as the evils perpetrated by bandits in the Northern region of the country.

This also included appeals on behalf of victims of flooding in several communities in Delta state. Kenneth Gbagi’s role as a former Minister of State for Education went beyond the functions and activities of the ministry. He spent time to keep watch on the infrastructure which the Federal Government situated in his constituency and Delta State.

He also worked assidiousely to see that the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE) Ugbomro-Effurun was commissioned for learning and equipped with required facilities and equipments needed for smooth take off.

He also objected to the relocation of the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Effurun to Kaduna.

To further demonstrate that he is one whose tenure as Governor will not be regretted, he came home with the approval of Government Girls College to Oginibo, an Urhobo town in Delta State.

Going by the above accounts, those who misunderstood or were misinformed of the saga at the Signatious hotel, Effurun, appear skeptical in giving him maximum support towards his governorship ambition.

Such persons in their interest should have a reset of their impressions, especially as the truth and reasons for such allegations have been exposed as the handiwork of political blackmailers.

Kenneth Gbagi’s lifestyle exudes love and empathy for his people and therefore can never be associated with such acts of inhumanity as portrayed in the molestation allegations against him.

Also, if he is said to be prudent or stern in handling his businesses or enterprises, he should not be castigated or blamed because most of the ailing or abandoned industries of both the state and the Federal Government were reduced to nothing as a result of mismanagement.

Apparently, Kenneth Gbagi’s opponents in the governorship race are aware that his credentials towards winning the race are unbeatable.

Therefore, a competition as this, require the ability to campaign or convince the electorates and to also show case what they’ve done to make the masses support their aspiration.

They are therefore advised to discontinue the act of blackmail or calumny in politics, since same does not portray the spirit of sportsmanship or oneness as expected from the people of the same Political party and ideology.

Burutu PDP Meeting: Ebike Calls For Unity Among Party Leaders, Kicks Against Divisive Politics

Burutu PDP Meeting: Ebike Calls For Unity Among Party Leaders, Kicks Against Divisive Politics

...... Charges Party Faithfuls To Desist From Backbiting

Francis Tayor

Warri______ The Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, Hon. Ebike Oromoni has called on Burutu PDP leaders, stakeholders and other party faithfuls to shun divisive politics and embrace unity, love one another towards the progress of the party.

Oromoni gave the charge today at Burutu, during Burutu PDP stakeholders meeting, urged party faithfuls as well as loyalists to desist from chronic lying and backbiting, noting that it does not portend good for the general interest of the party.

In his opening remark, Hon. Ebike Oromoni thank Burutu PDP leaders for creating time to attend the meeting, stressing that Burutu PDP family needs unity and love to move forward. He called on Burutu PDP leaders to love one another and work together as a team  for the progress of the party. 

According to Ebike, said: " Despite we have individual interest in the party, that does not mean we should hate ourselves. As a leader, you must listen more and talkless so as to avoid creating unnecessary enemity among ourselves. I must appreciate all the leaders for your support to party activities, please keep the good work going. 

I also want to called on the members of Burutu PDP WhatsApp group to stop raining insults on our leaders, because it does not portray good image of the group. The WhatsApp group was created to unite ourselves and share ideas for the progress of our party. Let's stop the abusive syndrome and think for the general development of Burutu. Finally, he charged all Burutu political appointees to provide logistics for the welfare of party officials, especially now that Christmas is fast approaching, Oromoni concluded."

In his reaction, Hon. Julius Pondi appreciate the leaders of Burutu and the grassroots for given him the opportunity to serve. He further urged party leaders to settle their differences amicably among themselves, noting that the electioneering era is over, let's work together to move Burutu forward.

While Hon. Funkekeme Solomon calls for respect among party leaders, noting that respect is reciprocal. He urged the party Chairman, Oromoni to put in his best to unite the party, so as to avoid keeping unnecessary enemity among ourselves. Opportunity is turn by turn, pray to God and wait for your turn, don't pull down your brother because of selfish political interest, Funkekeme stated.

In his remark, the Chairman Burutu LGA, Hon. Godknows Angele charged party faithfuls to engaged in constructive criticism, stressing that it is by doing that the political office holders will sit-up to do what is expected of them. He called on Burutu PDP party executives to set up a committee in order to raise fund for the welfare of party officials as well as followers.

Meanwhile, Hon. Ikisa Combolus, the Vice Chairman Burutu LGA, charged Burutu leaders to draw the attention of Gov. Okowa towards the speedy completion of Ayakoromo bridge, stressing that the bridge project will catapult road network to connect Burutu main town and the villages under the local government area, he asserted.

In his contribution, Hon. Paul Kurugbe charged party Chairman to call for Burutu PDP leadership meeting, so as to enable them settle the differences among themselves for the general interest of the party. He urged the house to set up a committee in order to unite the party leaders in subsequent meeting.

However, some party stakeholders and leaders present at the meeting include; Chief. Julius Takeme PDP Chairman Delta South, Hon. Julius Pondi, Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, Hon. Daniel Yingi, Chief. Emma Amgbaduba, Hon. Godknows Angele, Chief. Ebikeme Clark, Alhaji lsa Clark, Mr. Paul Kurugbe, Hon. Godwin Edumogiren, Hon. Kpambeni Johnny, Chief. Edeinmene Agada, Mr. Richard Tuedon, Mr. Kofee Amassuomo, Hon Mrs. Felicia Orounagha, Comrade Austin Ozobo, Mr. Ekanpou Enewaredideke, Barr. Alaowei Cleric, Hon. Albert Edumogiren, Hon. Sunny Perekeme, Hon. Combolus Ekisa among others too numerous to mention.