Notorious female gunrunner arrested with N2.4m in Katsina

Notorious female gunrunner arrested with N2.4m in Katsina

The Katsina State Police Command has arrested a suspected gunrunner, Aisha Nura in Batsari Local Govt Area of the state and recovered N2.4m found in her possession. 

Spokesperson of the command, SP Gambo Isah, who disclosed this in a statement on Friday, July 30, said the 27-year-old suspect is the wife of one notorious bandit known as Nura Alhaji Murnal.   

 "On 25th July, 2021 at about 0900hrs, based on a tip off, the Command succeeded in arresting one Aisha Nura, `F`, aged 27yrs of Baranda village, a Fulani settlement at Batsari LGA of Katsina state," the PPRO stated. "Nemesis caught up with the suspect when she was arrested in a suspicious manner, concealing her presence and trying to board an Okada motorcycle from Batsari town heading towards Nahuta village.

Immediately she was searched, money, the sum of two million four hundred and five thousand naira (N2,405,000:00K) was found in her possession, reasonably suspected to be proceeds of arms supplies to bandits in Kaduna state.

 "In the course of investigation suspect confessed to the commission of the offence and admitted that she was sent by husband one Nura Alh. Murnai a notorious bandit, belong to the camp of bandits’ leader one Abu Radda to collect the money on his behalf from his counterparts in Kaduna forest. Investigation is ongoing." he added.

Don't allow politics to disunite us, Jonathan tells ljaw political leaders, lNC, IYC

Don't allow politics to disunite us, Jonathan tells ljaw political leaders, lNC, IYC

Francis Tayor

Yenagoa____ Former President Goodluck Jonathan has implored leaders and stakeholders of Ijaw nation to shun divisiveness and work together in love and unity for the collective interest of the Ijaw people in Nigeria.

Jonathan gave the charge when the Professor Benjamin Okaba-led leadership of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) accompanied by the Central Zone officials of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), paid him a consultative visit at his office in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on Friday lastweek.

He noted that the relevance of the Ijaw ethnic nationality as a minority group is being threatened because they are not existing within one location, except in Bayelsa where their homogeneity is very pronounced.

He urged well-positioned Ijaw sons and daughters to sacrifice for the people and place collective interest above personal gains, stressing that differences among Ijaws should not jeopardize Ijaw unity.

Jonathan said the INC and the IYC have a huge role to play in ensuring the unity of the Ijaw people, especially among the political class, whom he emphasized must not allow political contestations to disunite them.

He said, “But the key point about us is the unity of the Ijaw people. And that is key. We are not too many in terms of physical number. We are widely spread, not concentrated in a geographical area, so our relevance is threatened along many states.

“Apart from Bayelsa State that we have a majority or almost the whole population, others are spread thinly (in other states). And a people like this need to be united to make impact. The collective interest of Ijaws should take precedent and people must sacrifice because of the interest of Ijaw land”.

The former President congratulated the INC executives on their successful election and subsequent inauguration, and commended them for the programmes and activities they were carrying out to promote the Ijaw cause.

He also thanked them for the visit and encouraged them to feel free to seek his involvement in any issue, adding that he was ready to play his role in service to Ijaw land.

Earlier, the INC President had expressed gratitude to Jonathan for supporting Governor Douye Diri to ensure a hitch-free election of the apex Ijaw socio-cultural organization which had been adjudged to be very free and credible.

Okaba, a professor of Sociology at the Federal University, Otuoke, said his leadership hit the ground running soon after their inauguration on May 14 “to drive the Ijaw agenda for resource justice, restructuring and internalization of the Ijaw struggle for self-determination and self-actualization”.

While enumerating some achievements recorded by his leadership, Okaba also informed the former president that the INC was working towards holding an All Ijaw Summit to appraise the Ijaw question and future in the Nigerian State.

BBN 2021: VOTE YERINS in the Big Brother Naija Show

BBN 2021: VOTE YERINS in the Big Brother Naija Show

Friends and Family Members, Dr Yerins is my son in the Big Brother Naija show. He is a destiny child with a mission in the society. From Monday 2nd August, 2021, mobilize massively and vote for Yerins accordingly. No more sms vote.

 VOTING PROCEDURE; 

(1) Download DSTV Or

 GOTV app in your phone.

(2) Open app and put your IUC /smart card number.

(3) Press Vote now and tag Yerins (picture of Yerins there ).

Download DSTV or GOTV app on your phone. For  DSTV premium you have 2,500 votes per day .

For GOTV max you have 1,500 votes per day per smart card depending on the type of subscription. Voting is free & your viewing satisfaction won’t be disrupted.

Spread the message to all your neighbours & relatives. Ready to vote on Monday. God bless us as we commence voting. 

Sender:

Saibakumo Ahmed Eniyeketon.

Gov. Okowa of Delta State Sworn-In additional 11 Commissioners, charges them to deliver on the prosperity agenda

Gov. Okowa of Delta State Sworn-In additional 11 Commissioners, charges them to deliver on the prosperity agenda

Asaba_____ The Executive Governor

of Delta State, His Excellency, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, has on Thursday 29th July, 2021 at the state capital, Asaba sworn-in 11 commissioners as members of the State Executive Council.

The Governor in his inaugural speech charged the commissioners to be committed to the key policies of his  administration.

He noted that the government has achieved much in the areas of infrastructure and entrepreneurship training to better the lots of Deltans, keeping tab with the prosperity mantra but admitted there’s a lot more to cover to tackle the problems of youth unemployment, widespread of poverty, and social cohesion.

“To all the Commissioners, it’s my hope you justify the confidence that has been reposed on you with this appointment.

“With less than 2 years to the terminal of this administration, every minute counts as we strive to deliver our goals and promises to the good people of Delta State.

“Moreover, as you commence your stewardship today, make it a priority to allowing yourself with the ideals and ideas to the key policy trust of this administration.”

In addition, Okowa charged the commissioners to be cautious in their relationship with all to create a viable environment.

“In your utterances and actions, develop a work environment devoid of mutual suspicion, distrust, exclusion, and resentment.

“This administration is passionate and believed in peaceful coexistence, hence you should be good ambassadors of this administration. Congratulations to you all”, he asserted.

The eleven commissioners are:

Prof. Patrick Muoboghare, Hon. Chika Ossai, Hon. Basil Ganagana, Chief Emmanuel Amgbaduba, Dr. Mordi Ononye, Hon. Ovie Oghoore, Barr. (Mrs) Bridget Ayanfulu, Hon. Solomon Golley, Barr. Isaiah Bozimo, Hon. Henry Sakpara, Barr. Jennifer Oma Adasen.

Meanwhile, eighteen commissioners had been sworn in, totalling 29 members of the State Executive Council, and seven out of this number are women.

Prof. Patrick Muoboghare responded on behalf of the newly sworn in commissioners. He thanked God for the appointment and appreciated the governor for the confidence in them to serve, stressing that they will not disappoint Deltans.

Stop misleading the public with lies, fake news, Diebiri Youths tell Ogugu, Binebai, others

Stop misleading the public with lies, fake news, Diebiri Youths tell Ogugu, Binebai, others

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ ln response to an unguided, baseless and inciting publication made by the Liberator Newspaper online with the caption' Diebiri-Batan Community Elders Writes Okowa, want his E.A. Ako tamed over looming insecurity' dated 19th July, 2021, the youths of Diebiri kingdom under the aegis of Diebiri Youth Council (DYC), has cautioned one Mr. Don Dickson Ogugu, Mr. Lude James Osuobiri and Mr. Princewill Binebai to stop misleading the public with lies as well as spreading fake news geared towards inciting and creating division among the illustrious sons and daughters of Diebiri-Batan Community in Warri South West local government area of Delta State.

The youths in a communique issued at the end of a meeting held on the 29th July, 2021 at Warri, and jointly signed by the leadership of Comrade Quinton Tekedor (President), Comrade Ulayefa Orubu (Secretary), Comrade David Saturday (PRO) and Comrade Bestman Warekebi (Assist Secretary) respectively, has charged Don Dickson Ogugu, James Lude Osuobiri and their partners in crime to henceforth desist from circulating lies about the administrative bodies of Diebiri kingdom, if not the law of the land will soon catch up with them.

According to the Diebiri Youth Council President, Comrade Quinton Tekedor, said Diebiri kingdom have a functional well documented written constitution since 2014 and as amended in 2019, that is binding to the entire kingdom. How can a full grown up adult man like Don Ogugu with his sane mind come up with a blatant lies from the pit of hell to say that Diebiri kingdom is on the process of drafting her emerging constitution to misled the public just because of his selfish interest?

As if that wasn't enough, the chronic liar Don Ogugu went ahead in the said publication to say Diebiri is a proposed kingdom, deliberately ignoring the facts that Diebiri kingdom had been in existence since time immemorial and is duly recognized by government and the multinational oil companies as one of the prominent ljaw kingdoms in Delta State.

It was very unfortunate and shameful in the person of Ogugu to orchestrate that fallacious publication with some dissident elements to cause chaos among the sons and daughters of Diebiri-Batan Community- a sub community in the kingdom aimed at tarnishing the hard earned reputation of our Paramount Ruler, HRM. Engr. J.O. Orubu, our distinguished leader, Pastor Hon. Ako Samuel and our dynamic Diebiri Governing Council Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Orubu for no just course.

Speaking further, the youth President said the Paramount Ruler of Diebiri kingdom is a man of honor, custodian, humility and advocate for peaceful coexistence. Likewise Pst Hon. Samuel Ako is an embodiment of many feathers. He is a beacon of hope to the people of Diebiri kingdom because of his selfless services to humanity as well as his commitments to attract infrastructural development towards the advancement of the kingdom.

In tackling the claims of alleged Seven Concern Families in the kingdom, the youth President stressed that there was nothing like Seven Concern Families in Diebiri kingdom, noting that such name is alien or unknown entity to Diebiri people. It is a ghoast name fabricated from the pit of hell by the duo of Dickson Ogugu, James Osuobiri and their partners in crime in order to cause confusion in the kingdom. 

The youths however, challenge them to present the documents with historical background and genealogical presentation to buttress their claims of the Seven Concern Families, stressing that it has become imperative because they are aware and abreast with the acquisition documents that confers rights and privileges to Diebiri Community.

Meanwhile, the Diebiri Youths has unanimously endorsed and stand by the outcome of Diebiri Governing Council in the selection process conducted on the 10th of July, 2021 at Diebiri-Batan Community Town Hall, that produced Mr. Isaac Ogongbene, as Chairman Kokologbene Community, Mr. Alex Ebi Fenimine, as Chairman Diebiri-Batan Community and Comrade Quinton Tekedor, as the President Diebiri Youth Council. They asserted that their emergence followed due process and consultation among the four quarters of the Kingdom, the statement added.

Onduku Congratulates Bozimo, salutes Okowa on appointment as Commissioner

Onduku Congratulates Bozimo, salutes Okowa on appointment as Commissioner

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ An ljaw youth activist cum journalist and the Publisher Niger Delta Mirror News Online, Comrade Oyinbi Onduku, has joined friends, family members and well wishers to congratulate one of the illustrious sons of Azebiri Community, Isaiah Bozimo (Esq.), on his recent appointment as well as successful sworn-in as Commissioner by His Excellency, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, the Executive Governor of Delta State.

In a congratulatory message released on Thursday 29th July, 2021 in Warri, Onduku also expressed gratitude to governor Okowa in finding Isaiah Bozimo worthy to serve under his cabinet, stressing that the people of Azebiri Community in Bomadi local government area are very grateful and overwhelmed by the development.

He emphasized that Azebiri community in Bomadi had been denied of such rare political appointment over the years, but thank God today Gov. Okowa has changed the narrative with this singular gesture. 

Onduku reiterated that he has full confident in lsaiah Bozimo's leadership sagacity to contribute his quota meaningfully as a seasoned lawyer with high repute to join hand with His Excellency in order to move Delta State to an enviable height. 

He however, wished Bozimo God's divine protection, wisdom and understanding to carry out his constitutional duty and responsibilities faithfully so as to serve Deltans better. Once again, congratulations and thank you Your Excellency for the opportunity given to our illustrious son to serve in your government, the statement adds.

Diebiri Kingdom drafts Okowa, warn Osuobiri, Ogugu to desist from peddling lies against HRM, Ako, others

Diebiri Kingdom drafts Okowa, warn Osuobiri, Ogugu to desist from peddling lies against HRM, Ako, others

.......vows to sanction the duo, the dissident group and their sponsors in line with the kingdom's constitution over their uncultured, nonchalant behavior

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ The people of Diebiri Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, has written a rejoinder letter to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Delta State, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, to disregard a baseless, fallacious and uncultured publication made on the 19th July, 2021 via the Liberator Newspaper online, authored by one self-acclaimed eldest man of Diebiri-Batan Community, James Lude Osuobiri alongside Dickson Ogugu and some dissident groups calling on the state governor to call to order  one of their illustrious son who is Executive Assistant (EA) to the Delta State Government on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, Pastor Hon. Ako Samuel, on alleged looming insecurity in the Kingdom.

The Kingdom in a letter to His Excellency, dated 22nd July, 2021 and jointly signed by the most eldest man of Diebiri-Batan Community/Diebiri Kingdom, Chief Pa. Gabriel Oluba, Chief. Jacob E. Nadifa (JP), Elder Dickson Kiebor Ekpelagha, Elder Friday Yonwei, Elder Engr. Fredrick Brossy, Elder Newyear Asegbaghan, Elder Johnbull Yokiri among others, has sent a serious warning to the duo of James Lude Osuobiri and Dickson Ogugu to desist from bringing to disrepute as well as peddling lies against their highly respected Paramount Ruler of the Kingdom, HRM. Engr. J.O. Orubu, their leader and illustrious son, Pastor Hon. Ako Samuel and the entire Diebiri Governing Council, stressing that there is nothing like Seven Concerned Families in Diebiri Kingdom Constitution, and that the public should disregard such lies emanating from the pit of hell. 

Moreso, the Kingdom stated that all lands, Oil wells and locations in Diebiri territory are leased to the Nigerian government and the lnternational Oil Companies (IOCs) by the Diebiri people.

In reaction to their watery accusation on Pst Hon. Ako Samuel of causing trouble and insecurity in the Kingdom, Diebiri people debunked their claims, noting that they are all fabricated lies, mere allegations and character assassination of their respected leader, and it should be condemned as well as disregarded by the public.

They reiterated that their leader and illustrious son never enslaved them or caused confusion in Diebiri-Batan community. He is a peace maker, bridge builder, selfless leader, community developer and never involved himself in the Kingdom leadership elections. As a our leader, he was recently invited by the Chairman Diebiri Governing Council, Mr. Emmanuel Orubu, to witness the inauguration of the newly elected Diebiri-Batan Executives, Kolognene Community Executives and the Youth Executives as well.

The people said Hon. Ako deserves some accolades from all well meaning sons and daughters of Diebiri for his selfless service to humanity, immense contributions towards attracting infrastructural development for the advancement of the Kingdom. Saying Ako has nothing to do with the unfounded allegations from those dissident groups and their miserable failed sponsors.

While disputing their lies on the claims that Diebiri does not have a constitution governing them rather have a hoping or emerging constitution, the Traditional Council said Diebiri Kingdom have a unanimously well written Constitution since 2014 that is in operational till date. 

However, the Paramount Ruler of the Kingdom, HRM. Engr. J.O. Orubu, the Traditional Council of Chiefs, the Governing Council as well as the entire Diebiri people has vowed to sanction the duo of James Lude Osuobiri, Dickson Ogugu and the dissident group in line with the constitution of the Kingdom over their uncultured, nonchalant behavior. 

Finally, the Kingdom has charged the baseless unscrupulous petitioners, the Liberator Newspaper to henceforth, desist from peddling lies, spreading fake news and channel their energy over useful businesses other than trying to cause chaos in the peaceful Diebiri Kingdom, the statement adds.

Insecurity: NGO calls for synergy to promote peaceful coexistence among Nigerians

Insecurity: NGO calls for synergy to promote peaceful coexistence among Nigerians

Kano______  A leading non governmental organisation, NGO in Nigeria, the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ has embarked on a two-day working visit to the North West of Nigeria, Kano State in particular, with a view to partnering and collaborating with similar organisations so as to assist the Federal and State Governments to proffer solutions to the rising spate of insecurity, banditary, kidnapping and other vices confronting the country today.

The CEPEJ delegation led by its National Coordinator, Comrade Mulade Sheriff paid the familiarization/courtesy visit to discuss and seek collaboration with the NGOs in Kano State on how to promote peace through Early Warning System.

The Executive Director, Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) in Kano State, Comrade Ibrahim Zikirillah welcomed the Mulade-led CEPEJ team,  and said the hosting of the CEPEJ Boss was a great opportunity for them to share knowledge and experiences on how to tackle insecurity, build peace, and educate the youths on the need for them to shun violence in their communities, and embrace the spirit of peaceful coexistence.

Comrade Zikirullahi added that the Resource Center for Human Rights and Civic Education which is regarded as an organization of active citizens, started in Lagos, and now in Kano, with an Office in Abuja. He said CHRICED also networks and engages in so many activities. 

According to him, the body is working on a project titled Social Mobilization for Transparency and Accountability in Maternal Health, and Resource Budgeting in Kano State; it promotes democratic participation in Kano State, fosters transparency and accountability in constituency project delivery in Kano State, as well as promotes human rights and civic education among Kano people.

The CHRICED Executive Director applauded CEPEJ for its activities and programmes, and invited CEPEJ National Coordinator to attend the  15th anniversary of CHRICED coming up later this year. 

Responding, National Coordinator of CEPEJ, Comrade Sheriff Mulade said the NGO focuses on five (5) thematic areas - peace building, good governance, fundamental human rights, justice, as well as environmental sustainability, and uses conferences, seminars, rallies, symposia, workshops, town hall meetings or people's parliaments, as well as educational research as advocacy strategies.

Comrade Mulade said CEPEJ is committed to community development and other humanitarian activities, and works with Government, parastatals, professionals, other NGOs and stakeholders at both national and international levels. 

The CEPEJ Boss also revealed that the NGO had organized national conferences in Nigeria and other countries in Africa, mobilized experts on peacebuilding, human rights, environment and security to speak as resource persons. He cited the conference held at the Koffi Annan International Peacekeepig Training Centre, Accra, Ghana as an example.

The ceremony featured the exchange of pleasantries and a group photograph between the CEPEJ and CHRICED teams.

Igbegbe Congratulates Zuokumo on promotion to Assist Commissioner of Police

Igbegbe Congratulates Zuokumo on promotion to Assist Commissioner of Police

A renowned ljaw freedom fighter cum philanthropist in the heart of Niger Delta, Alaowei Friday Igbegbe, has joined other well wishers to felicitate and congratulate the immediate past DPO of B'Division Warri, Mr. Kelvin Zuokumo, on his recent promotion to Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP).

Alaowei lgbegbe, in a congratulatory message released on Monday 19th July, 2021 in warri, noted that Kelvin Zuokumo promotion is well deserved as well as timely owing to his hard work and dedication to duty in the Nigeria police force over the years.

Igbegbe who is the Ebogha 1 of Ogbe-ljoh Warri Kingdom, described Zuokumo's promotion as the Lord's doing, stressing that his commitment to duty at all time has endeared him this new fit in service. 

He further emphasized that ljaw nation, especially the good people of Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State are very proud of him, saying God will continue to protect him to create an indelible impact in the Nigerian Police Force. He urged him to continue to discharge his duties without fear or favour to the best of his ability in accordance to the Nigeria Police Act, adding that peace and security in our society cannot be compromised.

Once again, congratulations my dear beloved brother, wishing you more timely promotions ahead, lgbegbe stated.

Passage of PIB Bill: lNC salutes action of patriotic lawmakers staged walk out

Passage of PIB Bill: lNC salutes action of patriotic lawmakers staged walk out

Ijaw nation salutes the courage, sagacity and dexterity of our Senators and other patriotic

National Assembly members and, in unison, support their historic and symbolic walkout during

yesterday’s rowdy session in defense of the teeming masses of the criminally marginalized,

balkanized and brutally bastardized Ijaw people and environment by successive administrations

of this country. 

The walkout staged by our distinguished Senators is a clear message to the Nigeria state and the International community of our total rejection of the 3% allocated to Host communities, the misapplication of the concept of host communities and the allocation of whooping 30% of profits from our oil and gas resources to the exploration and exploitation of oil and gas in frontier  basins in the PIB.

The walkout by our patriotic Senators further expresses our disillusionment over the continued unsavory treatment meted against the over 27 million Ijaw people who, in spite of bearing the burdens of sustaining this country, have experienced irreparable and unimaginable losses of their sources of livelihood as they continue to suffer the pollution of their ecosystem on account of the activities of  insensitive multinational oil companies without appropriate remediation as well as existential threats in the hands of the Nigerian state.

The Ijaw nation shall continue to condemn any policy that attempts to make what duly belongs to us as belonging to everybody and anybody without first respecting our right to ownership as we have at no time assumed ownership and control over what belongs to others. 

We are finding it difficult to calm down the nerves of our people whose anger is daily heightened by the unrelenting oppressive demeanour of those presiding over the fortunes of our God-given resources. Whereas we thought the PIB offered a veritable opportunity for the leadership to redress and pacify our people by hearkening to our petitions and cries of marginalization and underdevelopment, the recent decision by the Senate of the Federal Republic to allocate a paltry 3% to the Host Communities Trust Fund has poured fuel on an already combustible situation.

We wish to restate that the 3% provision for the Host Communities Trust Fund, 30% of Profit provisions for oil and gas exploration and exploitation of Frontier basins and the arbitrary distortion of the definition of host communities in the PIB remain totally unacceptable to the Ijaw nation.  Since our appeal as the leadership of the Ijaw nation appears to have fallen on deaf ears, we cannot promise or guarantee that we shall be able to contain any recourse to restiveness that could arise in Ijaw land.

Prof. Benjamin O. Okaba

President, Ijaw National Congress (INC).

Diebiri Kingdom Elects New Executives of Batan, Kokologbene, DYC

Diebiri Kingdom Elects New Executives of Batan, Kokologbene, DYC

Francis Tayor

Warri_____ The people of Diebiri ancient Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, has elected new Executive Council members to pilot the affairs of Batan community, Kokologbene community as well as Diebiri Youth Council.

The historic election was held on the 10th of July, 2021, at Batan Community Town Hall, attracted the Traditional Council, the Governing Council, Opinion leaders, illustrious sons and daughters of the Kingdom to select and constitute the new Executives from the four quarters to lead Batan, Kokologbene and the Diebiri Youth Council in the next two years.

After following due process in a peaceful atmosphere according to the constitution of the Kingdom, Mr. Alex Ebi Feminine was elected as Chairman Batan Community, Mr. Issac Ogongbene as Chairman Kokologbene community while Comrade Quinton Tekedor was elected as the Youth President of Diebiri Youth Council precisely.

Delivering his advisory speech to the newly sworn-in executives, the Paramount Ruler, Pere James G. Orubu, the lbenanaowei of Diebiri Kingdom charged the newly constituted excos to uphold the constitution of the Kingdom and strive to lift the affairs of the Kingdom forward in all ramification. He further urged them to work as a team to ensure peace and security among the various communities in the Kingdom.

Also speaking is Pst. Hon. Samuel Ako, who admonished the newly sworn-in executive members to do all they can to unite all sons and daughters of Diebiri Kingdom, both home and in diaspora for a more peaceful and prosperous Kingdom.

While the Amakosu-owei of the Kingdom, Chief. Gabriel Oluba called on Diebiri sons and daughters to support the newly constituted executive members in order to move the Kingdom to an enviable height, he noted. 

In their acceptance remark, the newly sworn-in Chairmen of Batan, Mr. Alex Ebi Feminine, Mr. Isaac Ogongbene of Kokologbene Community and the Youth President of Diebiri Youth Council, Comr. Quinton Tekedor thanked and appreciated the leaders and the illustrious sons and daughters of Diebiri Kingdom for the trust and confidence bestowed on them to serve, stressing that they will not disappoint the kingdom. They further commended Emmanuel  Orubu led Diebiri Governing Council executives for creating the enabling environment for all the aspirants to conduct free, fair and transparent election process, and promised to operate an all inclusive administration to ensure that Diebiri Kingdom have a fair share of her natural resources from the government as well as the multi-national oil companies operating in the Kingdom, they stated.

However, below is the comprehensive list of the newly constituted executive members of the various communities in the Kingdom.

DIEBIRI YOUTH COUNCIL EXECUTIVES:

1) Quinton Tekedor-President

2) Godwin Perebo -- Vice President

3) Ulayefa Orubu -- Secretary General

4) Bestman Warekebi -- Assistant Secretary

5) Ebiere Nadifa -- Treasurer

6) Morris Oweifaware -- Financial Secretary

7) David Saturday -- PRO

8) Rita Matthew -- Organising Secretary &

9) Stephen Bomene -- Spokesman.

BATAN COMMUNITY EXECUTIVES:

1) Alex Ebi Feminine -- Chairman

2) George Kpadowei -- Vice Chairman

3) Emmanuel Bomene -- Secretary General

4) Victor Igetei -- Assistant Secretary

5) Saturday Olasebede -- PRO

6) Matthew Oluba -- Financial Secretary

7) Samuel Tako -- Treasurer    &

8) Emmanuel Suoware -- Spokesman.

KOKOLOGBENE COMMUNITY EXECUTIVES: 

1) Isaac P. N.Ogongbene -- Chairman

2) Edwin Abobo -- Vice Chairman

3) Stephen Okubo -- Secretary General

4) Kenneth Nadifa -- Assistant Secretary

5) Simeon Seibomu -- PRO

6) Amakiye Ade -- Financial Secretary

7) Perez Igetei -- Treasurer &

8) Abadi Erebu -- Spokesman respectively.

Delta 2023: Ndokwa Nation expresses hope for Ijaw Governorship Ambition, as Boziimo preaches equity, fairness and justice in Ukwuani

Delta 2023: Ndokwa Nation expresses hope for Ijaw Governorship Ambition, as Boziimo preaches equity, fairness and justice in Ukwuani

The people of Ndokwa nation have stated that they share common destiny and same story of deprivation with the Ijaws of Delta State as people grappling with multifaceted challenges of underdevelopment and environmental degradation. The remark was made by Brigadier Gen. Mike Ndubuisi (Rtd), President General of Ndokwa Neku Union, highest socio-cultural organisation of Ndokwa Nation in Delta State on Wednesday 14th of June 2021, during a consultation visit by the Delta Ijaw for Governor 2023 lobby team at Ezhionum Community in  Ukwuani Local Government Area of the State.

Gen. Ndubuisi commended the Ijaw delegation for the seriousness displayed in their lobby to produce the next Governor of Delta State. He stated that "Looking at the list of members from your team, we can see the seriousness of the Ijaws ahead of 2023. According to him, the Ndokwas like the Ijaws speak with one voice noting that he would convey the appeal of the Ijaw people to the Ndokwa Nation and take the right decision at the appropriate time. In a related development, Prof. Julie Umukoro, National Woman Leader of Ndokwa Neku in her brief remark expressed hope that the visit of Ijaws to Ndokwa nation will mark a new beginning in Ndokwa quest for justice.

Earlier, leader of the Ijaw delegation,  Alaowei Broderick Bozimo who spoke on behalf of the Delta Ijaw for Governor 2023 lobby team appeal to the people of Ndokwa Nation to give full support to the Ijaw governorship bid come 2023, noting that the Ijaws and Ndokwa nation are people with peculiar challenges and that a Governor of Ijaw extraction would appreciate the peculiar challenges of the Ndokwa Nation and do the needful.  Alaowei Bozimo reiterated that Ijaws in Delta State have been supporting others by voting governors across all the senatorial districts and ethnic nationalities in Delta state since the creation of the state

and make a case for Ijaws to be supported to produce Governor of Delta State in 2023.

Elder Bozimo further informed the Ndokwa Nation that three capable Ijaw sons, namely: His Excellency,  Kingsley Burutu Otuaro, Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sen. James Manager, Senator Representing Delta South Senatorial  District and Dr. Braduce Amakazi Angozi, former commissioner for Agriculture, Delta State and Chairman of Burutu LGA have indictaed their interest to contest the 2023 Governorship election. He expressed his confidence in the capacity of the trio to govern Delta State, if given the opportunity. Sounding philosophical,  Bozimo said that there is time and season for everything, this is our time and season: "I believe that the hand of God is deeply involved in this Ijaw for 2023 Governorship because all the narratives favour the Ijaws. We will all dance to Asaba to install a new king in the Government House who will be an Ijaw man, our God specialises in impossibilities", he said!

On zoning, Alaowei Broderick stated that "Power has gone round to all the three senatorial districts in Delta State, hence it is not out of place for an Ijaw man from the Delta South Senatorial District to become Governor come 2023, the Ijaws have sacrificed a lot economically, politically and otherwise to merit the Governor of Delta State come 2023. This is not an ethnic matter, we are part of Delta State hence we should be given a sense of belonging. We have competent aspirants that can deliver and that those who disregarded zoning in the past and contested all Governorship elections in the state have no moral justification to talk about zoning". He further commended Gov. Okowa for his clarification on the issue of zoning in Delta State and the circumstances of his emergence as Governor of Delta State.

The  Ijaw delegation include Alaowei Broderick Bozimo,

Gen. Broderick Demeyeibo rtd,

Hon.(Dr.) Barry Gbe,  Commissioner for Economic Planning Delta State,

Hon.(Chief) Daniel O. Yingi, Special Adviser Nominee, 

Chief J.T Government, Governoring Board Chairman  Delta State School of Marine Technology Burutu,

Barr. Newworld Safugha, Executive Assistant to the Governor,  Renewable Energy, 

Hon. Paul Kurugbe, Member SPEB,

Barr. David P. Ekerokosu, Chief James Nieketein,

Hon. Collins Olorogun, Eng. Ezonfade Oyakemeagbegha- INC Publicity Secretary,

Hon. Joel Bisina, PhD,

Eric Omare,

Roland Oweilaemi,

Dr. Doubra Collins Okotete - IYC  Western Zone Chairman,

Hon.Bebeteidoh W. Austin, 

Prof. R.K. Moruk,  Admiralty University 

Rt. Rev. Godwins Soroaye,

Chief  Aribogha Johnny (JP),

Chief Wellington Bobo,

Mr. Ekenwan Akwagbe,

Eng. Dr. John Agori,

Eng. Plus Donyegha,

Barr. Fred E. Owotorufa,

Fanty Goodness Owotorufa (Mrs),

Hon. Allan Egbegi,

Chief M. Keme,

Hon. Ekiyorkeyi Asiyai, Hon. Gloria Okubodogha 

Comr. Moses Fiyebor 

Okporu Ebi Augustine- D.G Delta Ijaw 2023 Governorship Advocacy Group (GIGAG)

Mr. Francis  Abulu,

Victor  Ikpa,

Hon. (Chief) Roland Kemefa,

Hon. Korokorosei Sagbegha,

Hon. Tina Yinkore,

Education E.T,

Kebbi Oyas,

Mr. Funebi Numupeide,

Barr. Roland Esite,

Mr. Kemezode Tobi,

Eng. Emmanuel Obolu.

The Ndokwa Neku Union was represented by, Gen. Mike Ndubisi (Rtd) President General, Dr. Chukwumeke Ojieh, Sec.Gen, Prof. Julie Umukoro, Woman Leader, Engr. Eugene Agadaga- P.R.O, Mr. Ifeanyi Odachi-Youth Leader. Other dignitaries are, Maj. Agali (Rtd), Chief V.O.T Abanum, Engr. Meshach Ochonogor, Chief Enejide, Mr. Timothy Umukoro, Ogbuefi Efe, Hon. Oji, Chief Mrs Rita Enu, Barr. Mrs Omude,b Hon. (Mrs) Egbune-j Vice Chairman Ukwani L.G. A, Chief Prince Obi Nzekwu President of Ndokwa Clans among others.

Just-ln: Obazuwa Community attacks lkoro, as lYC vows to retaliate if Obaseki fails to address situation

Just-ln: Obazuwa Community attacks lkoro, as lYC vows to retaliate if Obaseki fails to address situation

-Francis Tayor-

Benin____ Prior to the latest Obazuwa Bini Community unwarranted attack on Tough Engineering Properties & Construction Company Limited, a tenant to lkoro ljaw Community in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State, the ljaw Youth Council (IYC) Olodi-ama Kingdom has vowed to retaliate Obazuwa Bini community over the repeated intimidation of the ljaws if Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State fails to address the situation immediately between the two communities.

The statement was issued on Friday 16th July, 2021 at Ikoro, the traditional headquarters of Olodi-ama Kingdom  by the duo, the Chairman lYC Olodi-ama Clan, Comrade Ebiwana Sam and the lnterim Chairman of lkoro Community, Hon. Ayebi Dengiri, warns that Obazuwa community should not take the quietness of lkoro ljaw people for granted because of their obedience to law and order in the state.

They stressed that it would no longer be usual for Obazuwa community henceforth, because the ljaws are equal to the task of carrying arms to strike when pushed to the wall. If His Excellency, Godwin Obaseki can not do the needful as the Chief Security Officer of the state, to protect the lives and properties of lkoro ljaw people of Edo, he should prepare to withstand the looming ethnic crisis between Obazuwa and lkoro community soon.

It would be recalled that, Obazuwa Bini community on Wednesday 14th July, 2021, attacked a Construction company in lkoro land, thereby destroying properties of the company worths millions of naira. 

According to the duo, Comrade Ebiwana Sam and Hon. Ayebi Dengiri said: " The Obazuwa youths launched the attack while the lkoro people and her sister communities where marking their mid year annual festival. They took advantage of our festive season to perpetrate their barbaric act against our law abiding tenants. As a law abiding citizens of the state, we have maintained peace and orderliness over the nonsense of Obazuwa people against us in the past years. Since the Executive Governor of the state has decided to keep mute and refused to take drastic action on the matter, we as a people have no other choice than to retaliate henceforth if there is further attack. We observing the law doesn't means we are Cowards. Enough is Enough, we shall defend ourselves henceforth, the duo stated."

However, the ljaw Youth Council of Olodi-ama Clan and the lkoro community has called on Governor Godwin Obaseki, the police and other security agencies to quickly intervene on the matter before things get out of hand, the statement added.

Open Grazing Ban: Delta working towards Sept. deadline - Okowa

Open Grazing Ban: Delta working towards Sept. deadline - Okowa

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Delta, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, on Tuesday said that the state government had begun work toward enacting a law to prohibit open grazing in the state.

According to Ifeajika, who was on a Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) live television programme monitored in Asaba, Delta State Livestock Breeding, Rearing and Marketing Regulation Bill, 2021 is already before the House of Assembly.

He said the Bill had scaled first reading at the parliament, and expressed optimism that the Bill would be passed and made ready for the governor’s assent before the September deadline set by the Southern Governors' Forum in their recent meeting in Lagos.

He commended the Speaker and members of the Assembly for their commitment towards ensuring that the Bill was passed on time.

"It is true that the Southern Governors' Forum had set September deadline for states to pass their anti-open grazing laws.

"For us in Delta, we would have had ours passed and ready long ago if not for the strike embarked upon by the parliamentary workers.

"However, the Bill is already before the House and it has passed through first reading while the second reading has been slated for Wednesday.

"I am very optimistic that the Law will be ready in Delta before the September deadline set by the Southern Governors’ Forum.

"I must commend the Speaker and members of the House for their commitment in ensuring that the Bill gets the urgent attention it deserves," Ifeajika stated.

We must do everything within our powers to end insecurity, says President Buhari

We must do everything within our powers to end insecurity, says President Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari says his administration is ready to use everything within its powers to end insecurity in the country and bring perpetrators of criminal activities to book.

 

The President, who spoke on Tuesday at a dinner with members of the National Assembly, held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, said ‘‘insecurity, manifesting as insurgencies, banditry, kidnapping and urban crime of all sorts is the single most difficult challenge we face today.’’

 

He expressed concern that insecurity had inhibited government’s ability to build infrastructure, provide the much needed social services to the people, and to attract investments that drive innovation, create industries, and provide jobs and create wealth.

 

‘‘Some of the people who perpetuate these various manifestations of insecurity do so for profit, others, in the name of discredited ideologies.

 

‘‘Whatever their motivations may be, their actions are an existential threat to our country.

 

‘‘In the circumstances, we must do everything within our power, without consideration of distractions, to put an end to their activities and bring them to book.

 

‘‘We cannot allow ourselves to be distracted from this objective, or waver in our commitment, and I am confident that together we will triumph in our present efforts,’’ he said.

 

President Buhari also used the occasion to hail the ninth National Assembly for discharging their legislative duties with maturity and competence, describing the legislature as ‘‘full partners in national development.’’

 

He particularly commended the minority parties in the legislature for their cooperation and support for Government programmes.

 

‘‘Our ability to govern in the best interests of the Nigerian people depends to a great deal on effective collaboration and partnership between the Legislature and the Executive.

 

‘‘The obligation to check and balance each other is not an invitation to conflict, and it should not be characterised by quarrelsome disagreement when consultation, engagements and compromise have proven time and again to be a more effective approach.

 

‘‘In the 9th Assembly, you have distinguished yourselves by your conduct in office, by the scale and quality of your legislative interventions, and by your capacity for engaging with the difficult questions facing the country with maturity and competence,’’ he said.

 

The President listed some legislative accomplishments of the ninth assembly ranging from returning of our budget cycle to January to December, the amendment of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), the Nigeria Police Act, the Finance Act, the Deep Offshore Production Sharing Contract Act, amongst others.

 

Commending the leadership of the National Assembly under Senate President Ahmad Lawan and Speaker of the House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila for their dedication through challenging times, the President told the legislators:

 

‘‘You have also succeeded in overcoming the political and other obstacles that have, for two decades, inhibited the much-needed reforms of our Oil and Gas industry, resulting now in the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

 

‘‘I congratulate you all, and thank you for your contributions to the difficult, yet necessary task of nation building.’’

 

The President noted that the executive and legislature came into office at a time of significant challenges for the country.

 

‘‘Overcoming these challenges require that we finally confront long ignored questions of economics, politics, law and history that are often at the root of our national problems.

 

‘‘This moment in history requires us to make hard choices, take difficult decisions and act with diligence and patriotism to ensure that our country can survive and thrive long after we have all left.

 

‘‘What this means in effect is that our jobs will not get any easier. However, the objectives we seek, and will work together to achieve, deserve our best efforts regardless the sacrifice,’’ he said.

 

As the second legislative year of the 9th Assembly has just come to an end, the President noted that it was appropriate to jointly review shared commitments, to identify what has been achieved, and what is still left undone.

 

‘‘This way, we can prioritise activities and allocate the resources necessary to ensure that in the lifetime of this Assembly, and of the administration, we can complete the work we have started, and leave behind a record of achievement that will stand all of us in good stead in the assessment of history,’’ he said.

 

The President said he looked forward to continued collaboration and partnership between the Executive and Legislative arms of government, working together to achieve a shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous country.

 

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

July 13, 2021