Ekpemupolo to Lay Grandmother ln-law to Rest on Friday 7, at Aleibiri in Bayelsa State

Ekpemupolo to Lay Grandmother ln-law to Rest on Friday 7, at Aleibiri in Bayelsa State 

........ Invite friends, business associates, well wishers to join him for the burial rites

Francis Tayor

Warri ____ Former two time Executive Chairman of Warri South-West Local Government Council of Delta State, Hon. George Ekpemupolo is set to lay to eternal rest the remains of his late Grandmother in-law, Mama Teiyenbebebo Dumbo, aged 92 at her home Town Aleibiri Community, Ekeremor LGA, Bayelsa State.

In a statement released on Thursday and signed by himself in Warri, the Okerenkoko born simple, humble and highly respected successful business tycoon, philanthropist cum politician, Hon. George Ekpemupolo specially requests family, friends, business associates and well wishers to join him in giving his late Grandmother in-law a befitting final burial rites tomorrow Friday 7, at Aleibiri Community.

According to the burial invitation:

Friday 7th July, 2023: Social Wake-keep till dawn starting by 8:00PM.

Saturday 8th July, 2023:  lnternment/In-laws greeting at her residence in Peretugbene Aleibiri by 9:00AM Prompt.

She was survived by children, many grand children, Greatgrand children, Great Great grandchildren, Daughter in-laws, Son in-laws and many other relatives too numerous to mention.

Read below the statement in brief:

" Please be my esteemed guest as I lay my late grandmother inlaw to rest. 

Date: Friday, 7th July 2023.

Venue: Aliebiri Community, Ekeremor LGA, Bayelsa State.

Time: 8pm till dawn. 

God bless you as you honour me with your presence".

Hon. George Ekpemupolo.

Collins, Success Set to Fulfill Marital Rites on 8 July, 2023 in Udu Delta State

Collins, Success Set to Fulfill Marital Rites on 8 July, 2023 in Udu Delta State 

..... Invite friends, colleagues and well wishers 

Francis Tayor

Warri ______ Preparation is on top gear as the duo, Chef Collins Eniyekebi Biayeibo of Ayakoromo Town in Burutu LGA, and Miss Success Erhomarho Oghorudu of Ubogo Town in Udu LGA, both of Delta State get set to fulfill marital rites  according to the Urhobo tradition on Saturday this weekend in Udu.

According to the marriage programme signed by the duo stated that the traditional marriage rites/payment of dowry would take place on Saturday 8th July, 2023 at No, 18 Agomate Lane, Opp Eshegbe Filling Station, along Udu Express Way, Ovwian Delta State, starting by 11:00AM Prompt.

Reception follows immediately at De Ellis Event Center, along DSC Express Way, Udu by 1:00PM.

Live ljaw music to be supplied by Ebis and his young talented band of Niger Delta.

Meanwhile, it will interest you to note that the Groom, Chef Collins Eniyekebi Zikurogha hailed from the popular late. Pa Biayeibo family of Ayakoromo Federated Community in Burutu LGA, while his amazing Bride Miss Success Erhomarho Oghorudu hailed from the family of Samuel Efefovwe Oghorudu of Ubogo town in Udu LGA both of Delta State.

The dou however, use this medium to respectively invite their friends, colleagues, well wishers and the general public to join them celebrate on their moment of joy, the statement added.

Uduaghan, Okowa must appear in court over 13% Oil Funds_Mulade

Uduaghan, Okowa must appear in court over 13% Oil Funds_Mulade

......Says We Are Prepared To Fight For A Better Deal for Host communities.

Warri______ The long awaited court case between Oil and Gas Producing Communities of Delta State led by renowned human and development advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff has began today, he again reiterated the reason he and his people are dragging the two former Governors, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, DESOPADEC and Attorney General of the State to High Court, Warri for the interpretation of Section 162 (2)  of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Section 13 (1) of the DESOPADEC Law 2006 (as amended) 2007, 2015 and 2018 respectively, and to account for over N1.8 trillion Naira of 13% oil derivation funds to oil producing communities of Delta State.

The peace ambassador disclosed this during the court section today 4th July, 2023 at High Court, Warri when representatives of Itsekiri, Ndokwa and Isoko Ethnic Nationalities filed to join the suit seeking interpretation and accountability of 50% of 13% oil derivation fund to Delta State under former Governors,  Dr Emmanuel Ewetan Uduaghan and Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa.

It would be recalled that the Delta State-born Environmentalist, Comrade Mulade Sheriff recently mobilized oil and gas producing communities in the State to Headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja, imploring the commission to investigate and recover their missing and misappropriated funds back to DESOPADEC to enable the state commission carry out developmental projects in the host communities. 

He stated that the immediate past commissioner for information, Mr Charles Aniagwu confirmed to Arise TV that former Governor Okowa remitted only N208billion against 538,725,142,776.085," which means that over 330bn Naira oil and gas producing Communities of Delta State is missing, therefore we demand accountability". 

While responding to questions from journalists, the former chairman of oil rich Kokodiagbene Community in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South West LGA of the State, Comrade Mulade Sheriff asserted that; "We are not going to be distracted by hired political sycophancy, who are trying to bring political coloration and other primordial sentiments to instigate the gullible public to undermine the genuine demands to know how our resources are being spent. We are for accountability and transparency and we are prepared to use our last drop of blood to fight for a better deal for our suffering people who are supposed to be enjoying the funds from their natural resources". 

"It is worthy of note that what we are fighting for is to recover our missing funds and equally free the state from the claws of the immediate past Governor Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa to enable our amiable Governor, His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori administration to be independent and deliver on his electoral mandate and promises to Deltans through his M.O.R.E Agenda", he added. 

He also said that; "It is unfortunate to state that based on available records, our dynamic Governor Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori met an empty treasury and some of the Delta State Accounts have less than a billion naira which has forced the state government to borrow huge sum of money inj less than one month in office under the guise of settling local government pensioners in the state".

However, the court as adjoined till 24th October, 2023.

How Tantita saves N'Deltans from untimely death, fire accidents due to Kpo-Fire

How Tantita saves N'Deltans from untimely death, fire accidents due to Kpo-Fire

Oyinbi Onduku

It is on record over the past twenty years in the Niger Delta region, South-South Nigeria where incessant fire disaster and untimely death was on the increase in weekly basis as result of the activities of illegal oil bunkering, especially the process of local refining popularly known as Kpo-Fire.

The menace also renders our young married ladies widows in the ljaw riverine communities because most of their life partners venture into the Kpo-Fire business due to its lucrative nature in making quick money.

To proof your doubt, take a tour to any of the ljaw riverine communities across Burutu, Warri South-West, Bomadi, Patani in Delta State, and Southern ljaw, Ekeremor, Nembe and Brass LGAs in Bayelsa State, you will discovered that most of our youths are facially disfigured in parts of their body as result of severe fire accident incurred during cooking and burning (refining) of crude oil to kerosene, fuel and desiel for commercialization.

Though Kpo-Fire business is very lucrative in terms of income generation but it is equally dangerous and more deadly than natural death.

In the process of locally refining the crude oil to fuel or kerosene, any slightest human error will cost one's life death otherwise permanent disability is the saving grace of God upon your life if you paradventure escapes death at the spot of the fire incident.

Since the Federal Government of Nigeria awarded the pipeline surveillance job to the foremost Niger Delta ljaw freedom fighter cum human rights activist, High Chief. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo aka Tompolo, the man behind Tantita Security Services Nig. Limited in August 2022 to check oil theft in the Niger Delta region, there was no single record of fire accident neither sudden death as regards to Kpo-Fire activities in the riverine communities.

Tompolo with the little surveillance contract, many stakeholders are meaningfully engaged with rewarding jobs of being part of the project, thereby diversifying their mindset from the life taken risk illegal Kpo-Fire activities to other legitimate businesses in their various communities.

Now that the people of Niger Delta have embraced a new live and appreciated the good work of Tantita Security Services in safeguarding the nation's critical national assets, gradually remediating the once battered Niger Delta Environment as result of Kpo-Fire activities, it is very important that the current administration led by His Excellency, Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu should take advantage of the successes achieved so far by Tantita within a year.

The current administration will continue to enjoy more revenue growth and uninterrupted flow of crude oil for commercialization if the contract status quo is sustained.

In addition, federal government should expand the contract scope of Tantita Security Services Nig. Limited in order to effect the safety of Nigeria's critical national assets as well as increase the daily barrels of oil production for both domestic consumption and export purpose.

Morris Appreciates Tompolo, appeals to carry along John Togo boys

Morris Appreciates Tompolo, appeals to carry along John Togo boys 

Francis Tayor

Warri _______ A former member of the defunct Niger Delta Liberation Force (NDLF) led by late John Togo, Commander Morris Ebi Musa, has commended the foremost Niger Delta ljaw freedom fighter, High Chief. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo for the good job he is doing for the Nigeria federal government by safeguarding the critical national assets, especially oil pipelines across the creeks of Niger Delta region.

Comm. Morris made the commendation in Warri on Sunday, during a press briefing noted that Tompolo is a God sent to liberate ljaw nation from the shadow of darkness to light.

According to the ex-agitator noted that Chief. Tompolo with the pipeline surveillance job has affected so many lives positively as well as  massively empowered over 60%  of Niger Delta youths across border, thereby restoring peace in the region to ensure free flow of oil in boosting the nation's revenue generation for the federal government.

While exenorating Tompolo's good deeds, Commander Morris however lamented that GOC had not given proper attention to the surviving field soldiers of his brother and friend in the ljaw liberation struggle, Gen. John Togo of blessed memory.

He said after the heroic death of their leader in 2013, Tompolo invited them first to meet with him at PK Hotels Warri, and thereafter Oproza and promised to carry them along in terms of meaningful engagement and otherwise.

But unfortunately, no slot was given to the surviving late John Togo boys in the current pipeline surveillance job he is handling.

However, Commander Morris use this medium to passionately appeal to their master Tompolo to please consider them in the pipeline job so as to make life sweet and easy for them and their families, the statement added.

PAP uncovers 1,370 BVN-linked bank accounts belonging to ex-agitators

PAP uncovers 1,370 BVN-linked bank accounts belonging to ex-agitators 

Abuja_____ The Presidential Amnesty Programme is sponsoring 75 pilots and aircraft engineers to South Africa and France for type-rating as part of its aviation training scheme, the Interim Administrator of the PAP, Major General Barry Ndiomu (retd.), said on Friday.

He also said that sanitary measures carried out on the PAP database revealed that certain beneficiaries and ex-agitators had multiple accounts linked to their BVNs.

“Further verification of the payment list revealed that certain beneficiaries had multiple accounts linked to their BVNs. In total, 513 beneficiaries had 1370 accounts on the payment list linked to their BVNs. Other anomalies were that of certain accounts not linked to their BVNs; this group had a total of 2601 accounts.

“To rectify those irregularities, a portal was created by PAP (_stver.osapnd.gov.ng) for the affected beneficiaries to log in, and those with multiple accounts linked to their BVNs were to choose just one account in order to have their payments regularised. A total of 1,561 accounts have been cleared and paid in full to date and presently, multiple account fraud has been eradicated from the payment list”, he said.

According to him, a total of 847 delegates are currently undergoing training at the National Information Technology Development Agency in various ICT-specialised fields.

The delegates would be certified in digital marketing, email marketing, social media marketing, computer appreciation, search engine optimization, as well as technical and computer writing.

In a statement, the Special Assistant (Media) to the PAP CEO, Freston Akpor, said that from vocational training centres to opportunities in Federal Government agencies, and incentives for viable SMEs, the innovative ideas initiated by Ndiomu would guarantee the socio-economic sustainability of ex-agitators and young people in the Niger Delta.

He said enormous windows of employment opportunities have been provided for ex-agitators in the oil-rich Niger Delta region to thrive.

Akpor said, “Under General Ndiomu, a total of 847 delegates are undergoing training in the National Information Technology Development Agency in various ICT specialised fields with certification in digital marketing, email marketing, social media marketing, computer appreciation, search engine optimisation, as well as technical and computer writing.

“Similarly, the PAP is sponsoring 75 pilots and aircraft engineers to South Africa and France for type-rating as part of the programme’s aviation training scheme, which General Ndiomu is very passionate about. A breakdown of the figure indicates that 35 delegates are pilots, while 40 are billed for aircraft engineering.

“A major boost to that initiative was the launching of the PAP Cooperative Scheme with an initial sum of N1.5 billion as seed money in the account with an additional N100 million operational fund to be solely managed by the ex-agitators. The cooperative scheme has an eminent jurist, Justice Francis Tabai, a retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria as chair of the board with a team of experienced consultants to assist in nurturing the cooperative into fruition. This will create a conducive environment for small businesses to grow to become the catalyst for economic development in the Niger Delta.”

Speaking on the vocational training centres designed to provide skills for the teeming youths in the region when completed, he emphasised that the PAP has cleared monies owed to contractors to facilitate the completion of five vocational centres across the region.

“Relevant higher institutions of learning, training institutes and development partners have undertaken spot assessments to re-evaluate existing infrastructure, update software and service equipment, including those left at Boro Town after it was burgled, to bring the centres, including an additional one to be sited in Bayelsa, up to speed and eminent take-off. The management under General Ndiomu has also cleared all debts related to ongoing training schemes,” he maintained.

He added that under General Ndiomu’s watch, the PAP has provided employment for a critical number of young graduates from the Niger Delta in line with the vision of the PAP, thereby reducing the culture and cycle of dependency and indolence.

Late King Robert Ebizimo 9th Anniversary to hold 31 July, 2023 at Angalabiri

Late King Robert Ebizimo 9th Anniversary to hold 31 July, 2023 at Angalabiri 

Oyinbi Onduku

Yenagoa_____ This year's edition of the remembrance Anniversary of the fallen ljaw Owigiri Highlife Music King, the Numu- Pere 1 of lzon-lbe, late (Dr). King Robert Ebizimo, has been announced to the notice of the general public.

According to the convener, King Pereama Freetown JP, Numupere ll of lzon-lbe noted that this year's edition is scheduled to hold on Monday 31st July, 2023 at Angalabiri Community in Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

In a statement released on sunday at Yenagoa, King Pereama expressed that late King Ebizimo was a mentor to all ljaw performing owigiri highlife musicians across the Niger Delta. He said King Robert contributions to protect and project the ljaw culture, language and heritage cannot be easily forgotten.

He reiterated that King Robert Ebizimo worths this annual celebration because he had created an indelible impact in the lives of every average ljaw man through the lyrics of his philosophical songs.

Pereama emphasized that the late ljaw music taliban was a man who literally transformed ljaw owigiri highlife music to the present appreciable standard in ljaw land and beyond, adding that there is more to be done by the Bayelsa State Government and other well meaning illustrious ljaw sons and daughters to imotalize the fallen ljaw music lcon.

He stressed that late king Robert Ebizimo is a role model and inspiration to many ljaw sons and daughters, especially we under the tetulage of his mentorship as well as the new generation upcoming ljaw owigiri highlife musicians across the Niger Delta region.

By this information, the ljaw Dumatun-Ogbo, lovers of ljaw music, illustrious sons and daughters of ljaw nation and the general public is hereby humbly and respectfully invited to grace the occasion at month end.

Meanwhile, King Pereama Freetown JP use this medium to thank and appreciate all those who had contributed financially and otherwise to ensure a memorable annual remembrance celebration of our departed ljaw music Hero over the past eight years, praying God to protect and bless them financially and materially in order to sustain the annual epoch making event that is billed for once in a year, the statement added.

However, it will interest the general public to note that, late Dr. King Robert Ebizimo died in a ghastly motor accident on the 31 July, 2014, near Effurun Roundabout Warri, Delta State, on his way from Abuja to Bayelsa in order to celebrate his survival party, after battling a serious illness that led to the amputation of one of his legs.

Unfortunately, he could not celebrate his survival party initially scheduled on the 1st of August, 2014 owing to his tragic death. May his gentle soul continue to rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Lord, Amen..

Another Titanic world’s biggest cruise ship to sail 2024, after 111 yrs misfortune

Another Titanic world’s biggest cruise ship to sail 2024, after 111 yrs misfortune 

The World’s biggest cruise ship is ready to sail on the Caribbean waters in January 2024, CNN has exclusively reported.

This is happening 111 years after the British passenger liner Titanic, the world’s largest ocean liner in service at the time, sank on its inaugural voyage, in the early morning hours of 15th April, 1912 in the North Atlantic Ocean, four days into its maiden voyage from Southampton to New York City.

According to CNN exclusive reports the world’s biggest cruise ship has completed construction at a shipyard in Finland and has made its first foray into open water for sea trials ahead of likely delivery in October this year and would sail on Caribbean waters in January 2024.

CNN reports that the Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas is a mammoth 365 meters long (nearly 1,200 feet) and will weigh a projected 250,800 tonnes. 

The vessel has the capacity of comfortably accommodating 5,610 passengers and 2,350 crew. 

Recall that the British Titanic Ocean liner 

had an estimated 2,224 people on board when it sank.

Prapra congratulates Boro, salutes Sheriff on his Appointment as Chairman Waterways

Prapra congratulates Boro, salutes Sheriff on his Appointment as Chairman Waterways 

Warri------- A Niger Delta ex-agitator and youth leader of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in Ward 7 Ayakoromo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, Sunday Ayakeme alias Commander Prapra has send a powerful congratulatory message to Alaowei Chief.Boro Opudu, on his reappointment as Chairman Delta State Waterways/Land Security Committee by the Executive Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori.

In a congratulatory message released on Friday at Ayakoromo community, Commander Prapra, who is a former member of Niger Delta Liberation Force, NDLF under the leadership of late. Gen. John Togo, stated that the appointment of Boro Opudu is a well deserved one as well as testament of his hard work and commitment to restore peace and orderliness in the riverine areas over the past decade, especially in the fight against sea pirates and illegal oil bunkering.

Prapra said Boro is tested and trusted security expert who has contributed immensely to the peace we enjoyed in Delta State, especially the riverine communities.

Hence, his reappointment by His Excellency is a welcome development and a step in the right direction.

However, Prapra appreciated Governor Oborevwori for believing in Boro's capacity to broker peace and security in the state. He assured the governor that Delta State waterways and land security is in a safe hand, and that Alaowei Boro Opudu will continue to deliver his primary assignment diligently as regards to security of lives and critical government assets in the state, the statement added.

Morris rejoices with Oborevwori at 60, makes case for John Togo boys over Neglect

Morris rejoices with Oborevwori at 60, makes case for John Togo boys over Neglect 

Francis Tayor

Warri ______ Former member of the defunct Niger Delta Liberation Force, NDLF led by late. Gen. John Togo, Commander Morris Ebi Musa, has congratulated and rejoiced with the executive governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori as he clocks 60.

Commander Morris in a congratulatory message released on Saturday morning at Warri, appreciated God in the life of His Excellency for adding another glorious year to his age, praying God to give him wisdom, knowledge and understanding to pilot the affairs of the state.

He further draw the attention of the governor to the promise made to late John Togo boys by Delta State government in 2013 under His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan to carry them along through waterways security job, empowerment as well as to acquire skill acquisition training as their camp layed down their arms to government to embrace peace. 

Morris reiterated that it was the former Secretary to the Delta state government, Hon. Ovuzorie Macaulay that represented the governor at then to receive them at Governor's Office Annex, Edjeba, Warri where they handover their arms and ammunition to the government.

Since after dropping their arms, the Uduaghan led government neglected them including the just passed Okowa led administration, leaving them to their fate and their families to suffer in the street without any attention from the Delta state government.

He however, appealed to His Excellency, Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori, who is from the street that knows their plight to engage them in this administration for waterways security job, stressing that they will work to make sure there is peace in the riverine areas for his administration to succeed, Commander Morris Musa asserted.

Nigeria now enjoy robust Revenue growth with Tantita, Kagbala tells FG

Nigeria now enjoy robust Revenue growth with Tantita, Kagbala tells FG

      

Tantita Will Sustain Nigeria's Revenue Growth Under Tinubu, Makes Positive Environmental Impact in Niger Delta,

Online news Publisher of FocalPoint Reports in Delta state, Comrade Ezekiel Kagbala has scored Tantita Security Services Limited High, stating that President Tinubu's administration will enjoy more revenue growth as they continue to beefs up surveillance to combat  oil theft.

While rating the security service more on its giant strides to ensure the environment is free from degradation, the Publisher noted that, there is a convincing proof that Nigeria's oil production will enjoy unhampered interference if the Tantita security outfit is motivated to consolidate further on the fight against oil theft in the oil rich Niger Delta region.

Makes Positive Environmental Impact in Niger Delta  

"It could be remembered that, before Tantita came on board, Nigeria's oil production slumped by 28million barrels between January and July 2022 which was a threat to the federal Government as against the N9.37tn oil and gas revenue and this severe shortfall was however appropriated to pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft and high petrol subsidy by the then Minister of Finance, Budget and National planning, Dr Zainab Ahmed.

He commended the Managing Director of Tantita Security, High Chief(Engr) Kestin Pondi and his team for the positive results achieved so far through the multi-dimensional measures geared towards ensuring that Nigeria's pipelines are protected from any form of sabotage or theft.

He explained further that since the FG awarded the pipeline surveillance to High Chief Ekpemupolo, the man behind Tantita Security Services in August 2022 to check oil theft in the Niger Delta, Stakeholders have been well engaged with rewarding jobs of being part of the project, the surveillance the much needed solution to boost the country's revenue within a short time.

It is also a win-win situation for Niger Delta to secure the nation's critical asset.

However this, did not undermine the importance or crucial role of the Military, Police, DSS including other government security apparatus.

Tantita is complimented the efforts of the federal government to stop the act that has dwindled the stability of the country's economic and maintained that, the present administration will enjoy more revenue growth as stated earlier by institutionalizing and expanding the contract scope of Tantita Security Services Limited in order to effect the safety of the nation's oil production, transportation and storage.

He alleged that, Asari Dokubo's indictment of the military involvement in oil theft was political and a means to project personal interest or it could possibly be an act of envy arising from the security contract that is being perfectly handled by Tantita.

"It is worthy to note that, Asari Dokubo's accusation of the military came at a time when there had been no recent record of theft or sabotage that Tantita Security Services could not neutralize and so it has no right standing".

Mulade Sue Uduaghan, Okowa to Court over DESOPADEC N1.8Trillion

Mulade Sue Uduaghan, Okowa to Court over DESOPADEC N1.8Trillion 

Warri_____ A Delta state born renowned human, environmental and development rights advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff has dragged the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, former Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) and the Attorney-General of Delta State to High Court, Warri. 

The claimant who is an indigene and former chairman of oil rich Kokodiagbene Community in Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State said that he is dragging the two former Governors, DESOPADEC board and the Attorney General of the State to court for the interpretation of Section 162 (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and section 13 (1) of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) Law of 2006 (as amended), 2007, 2015 and 2018 established to cater for the wellbeing of the Oil and Gas Producing Communities in the State.

According to him, it was worthy of note that the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) Law 2006 (as amended), 2007, 2015 and 2018 respectively was established to expressly execute a clear mandate as stated in Section 13(1) of the DESOPADEC Law which provides thus:

"The commission shall receive and administer exclusively 50% of the Oil Derivation fund accruing to the Delta State Government for;

a) The rehabilitation of the oil producing communities/areas of the state;

b) Other development projects as may be determined from time to time by the communities".

The activist recently mobilized host communities under the auspices of Association of Oil and Gas Producing Communities of Delta State to the headquarters of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abuja, calling on the anti-graft agency to probe, investigate and recover the misappropriated fund back to DESOPADEC to enable them Development the oil producing communities in the State.

"It is unfortunate that previous administrations have starved the commission of its legal and lawful entitlement of 50% of the 13% Oil Derivation fund thereby making the commission moribund where projects are claimed to have been executed and commissioned only on papers and media documentary", the activist lamented. 

"I am equally dragging them to the court to account for the sum of N1.863,478,177,892.60 (ONE TRILLION, EIGHT HUNDRED AND SIXTY-THREE BILLION, FOUR HUNDRED SEVENTY-EIGHT MILLION, ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY-SEVEN THOUSAND, EIGHT HUNDRED NINETY TWO THOUSAND, SIXTY KOBO) that was received by both administrations in line with the records available to me upon an application to the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation for a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the 13% oil derivation fund from the Federation Account to the Delta State Government between 2007 – 2022, which clearly shows that, the sum of N1.863,478,177,892.60 has been disbursed to the Delta State Government from July 2007 to December 2022, for the Rehabilitation and Development of the oil Producing Communities/Areas in Delta State", he added. 

Comrade Mulade Sheriff said that; "It is very disheartening and callous to note that despite the copious and unambiguous provisions of Section 162 (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Section 13 (1) of the DESOPADEC Law of 2006 (as amended), 2007, 2015 and 2018 respectively, the former Governors of Delta State, their Excellencies, Dr Emmanuel Ewetan Uduaghan and Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa deliberately and flagrantly abused, violated and breached the above provisions of the Law and misappropriated the said funds for their personal use while at the helm of affairs of the state at the expense of the suffering people of the Oil and Gas Producing Communities in Delta State". 

He pointed out that Section 13 (1) of the DESOPADEC Law 2006 (as amended) 2007, 2015 and 2018, the commission is legally and lawfully entitled to 50% from the 13% oil derivation fund from the Federation Account which is calculated at N931,739,088,946.3k (Nine hundred and Thirty-One Billion, Seven Hundred and Thirty-Nine Million, Eighty-Eight Thousand, Nine Hundred and Forty-Six Naira, Three Kobo) from the Delta State Government for both administrations but the reverse was the case.

"It is imperative to state that from the information obtained and records available, it is obvious that the Delta Government grossly underfunded the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission particularly under Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa who received whooping sum of N1.077,450,285,552,17 but consistently and deliberately disbursed less than the sum of N20,000,000,000 (Twenty Billion Naira) only annually for the past Eight Years. This was confirmed by the immediate-past State commissioner for information, under former governor Okowa, Mr Charles Aniagwu, that the state remitted N208 billion from 2015-2023 to DESOPADEC against N538,725,142.776,085k (FIVE HUNDRED THIRTY EIGHT BILLION, SEVEN HUNDRED AND TWENTY-FIVE MILLION, ONE HUNDRED FORTY-TWO THOUSAND, SEVEN HUNDRED SEVENTY-SIX THOUSAND, EIGHTY-FIVE KOBO). We have a missing N330,725,142.776,085k (Three Hundred and thirty billion,  Seven Hundred twenty five million, one hundred and Forty-Two Thousand, Seven Hundred Seventy-Six thousand, fifteen kobo)", excluding January 2023 -- May 2023, those missing funds must be recovered by every means legally possible for the development of Oil and Gas Producing Communities of Delta State, he stated.

Delta Oil/Gas producing community's petition Okowa at EFCC over 1Trillion fraud

Delta Oil/Gas producing community's petition Okowa at EFCC over 1Trillion fraud 

Abuja_____ Members of oil and gas producing Communities of Delta State has stormed the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC to demand for the probe and investigate the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa for illegally and unlawfully diversion of host communities 13% oil derivation funds.

The protester led by Delta born human and environmental rights advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff stormed EFCC demanding the commission to invite the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa to account for the 50% exclusively enmark for oil and gas producing communities through DESOPADEC to develop our communities as being diverted for his personal interest.

Read the fully text of the petition 

22nd May, 2023

The Chairman,

Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)

301/302 Institutions and Research Cadastral District,

Jabi,

Abuja.

 All Protocol observed,

ILLEGAL AND UNLAWFULL DIVERSION AND MISAPROPRIATION OF THE SUM OF N1,077,450,285,552.17 (ONE TRILLION, SEVENTY-SEVEN BILLLION, FOUR HUNDRED AND FIFTY MILLION, TWO HUNDRED AND EIGHTY-FIVE THOUSAND, FIVE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-TWO NAIRA, SEVENTEEN KOBO) BY THE IMMEDIATE-PAST GOVERNOR OF DELTA STATE, SENATOR (DR) IFEANYI OKOWA IN RESPECT OF THE 50% LEGALLY PRESCRIBED ALLOCATION TO DELTA STATE OIL PRODUCING AREAS DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (DESOPADEC) FROM THE 13% OIL DERIVATION FUND FOR REHABILLITATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE OIL PRODUCING AREAS IN DELTA STATE.

We are leaders and representatives of oil and gas producing Communities of Delta State. We wish to draw the attention of the general public, particularly, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to the illegal diversion of our entitlement from the 13% derivation funds.

We are indigenes and members of the Oil and Gas Producing Communities in Delta State and it’s on this strength we are drawing the attention of your office in respect of the flagrant and deliberate abuse of Section 162 (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and section 13 (1) of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) Law of 2006 (as amended), 2007, 2015 and 2018 established to cater for the wellbeing of the Oil and Gas Producing Communities in Delta State.

It is imperative to state that the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) Law 2006 (as amended), 2007, 2015 and 2018 respectively was established to expressly execute a clear mandate as stated in Section 13(1) of the DESOPADEC Law which provides thus:

"The commission shall receive and administer exclusively 50% of the Oil Derivation fund accruing to the Delta State Government for;

a) The rehabilitation of the oil producing communities/areas of the state.

  b) Other development projects as may be determined from time to time by the communities".

1. We have observed curiously in 2022/ 2023 that the DESOPADEC has become moribund, and the Oil Producing Areas/Communities are nose-diving into abject poverty, which is inciting and causing youths restiveness and agitation in their various Communities hence we have decided to take necessary steps to address this issue.

2. From the records available to us upon an application to the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation for a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the 13% oil derivation fund from the Federation Account to the Delta State Government between 2015 – 2022, the sum of N1,077,450,285,552.17 (ONE TRILLION, SEVENTY-SEVEN BILLLION, FOUR HUNDRED AND FIFTY MILLION, TWO HUNDRED AND EIGHTY-FIVE THOUSAND, FIVE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-TWO NAIRA, SEVENTEEN KOBO) has been disbursed to the Delta State Government from July 2015 to December 2022, for the Rehabilitation and Development of the oil Producing Communities/Areas in Delta State. In fact what Okowa received is far more than N1,077,450,285,552.17 if the 13% monthly allocations of January 2023 to May 2023 are added. See attached CTC

3. It is very disheartening and callous to note that despite the copious and unambiguous provisions of Section 162 (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Section 13 (1) of the DESOPADEC Law of 2006 (as amended), 2007, 2015 and 2018 respectively, the immediate past Governor of Delta State His Excellency Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa has deliberately and flagrantly abused, violated and breached the above provisions of the Law and had continued to misappropriate the said funds for his personal use at the expense of the suffering people of the Oil and Gas Producing Communities in Delta State.

4. By section 13(1) of the DESOPADEC Law 2006 (as amended) 2007, 2015 and 2018, the commission is legally and lawfully entitled to 50% from the 13% oil derivation fund from the Federation Account which is calculated at N538,725,142,776.85 (Five Hundred and Thirty-Eight Billion, Seven Hundred and Twenty-Five Million, One Hundred and Forty-Two Thousand, Seven Hundred and Seventy-Six Naira, Eighty-five Kobo) from the Delta State Government.

5. That from the information obtained, it is obvious that the Delta Government grossly underfunded the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission as it was in the habit of consistently and deliberately disbursing less than the sum of N20,000,000,000 (Twenty Billion Naira) only annually for the past Eight Years. This was confirmed by the immediate-past State commissioner for information to the former Governor, Mr Charles Aniagwu that the state remitted only 208bn against 538,725,142,776.085. See attached.

6. Sir, unfortunately all efforts by our  communities' leaders and other well-meaning personalities in Delta State to have the Delta State Government to obey, observe and comply with the DESOPADEC law and render account for the said  misappropriated fund have proved abortive hence this petition.

7. It is very nauseating that despite the stupendous Billions of Naira being paid to the Delta State Government from the 13% oil derivation fund from the Federation Account, The Oil Producing Areas/Communities continue to wallow in abject poverty with no commensurate social amenities and infrastructures in place. This gross and reckless misappropriation of the 13% oil derivation fund meant for the Oil Producing Communities largely account for the incessant restiveness and agitations in the Niger Delta Region.

8. We are strongly appealing to the Commission saddled with the responsibility to probe and Investigate the immediate-past Governor, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, to recover and return our money of the 50% of the 13% Oil derivation fund from the Federation Account to the State Government and render necessary Account for the said illegally and unlawfully misappropriated balance to DESOPADEC coffers, to enable them Development our communities.

9. It will interest the public to note that the immediate-past Governor of Delta State, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa used our 13% derivation funds to build and buy over 80% shares in Premium Trust Bank Plc and acquire numerous properties including Jace Darl Hotels in Asaba, the state capital, Abuja and Lagos etc for himself and his daughter, Mrs Mariyln Okowa-Daramola.

10. The Immediate-past Governor, Senator, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa went further to use our 13% derivation funds to develop his village which is not part of oil producing communities in Delta State, with proposed plans to Re-named state institution in his honour particularly (University of Delta, Agbor, Delta State)

11. There will be relative peace and development in the Niger Delta Region if the stupendous oil funds which accrue to the oil producing Areas/Communities from the 13% Oil derivation Fund are judiciously used for the rehabilitation and development of the Oil Producing Areas/Communities.

Conclusion: We want to strongly appeal to your indefatigable commission to kindly reject any offer from the immediate past Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa who has boosted to have made concrete arrangement with top officials of the EFCC for a plea bargain to the deterrent of the oil and gas producing Communities of the State.

Sir, it is in view of the above, we appeal to your good Office for your prompt intervention to diligently probe and investigate the allocations and the deployment of our 13% oil derivation funds accrued and disbursed to the Delta State Government from the Federation Account from 2015 – 2023 with paid attention to the 50% of the 13% oil derivation fund prescribed by the DESOPADEC law of 2006 (as amended), 2007, 2015 and 2018 respectively.

We offer our thanks in anticipation of your kind cooperation. Sir.

 

Signed:

Chief (Comrade) Mulade Sheriff                        

(Ijaw Ethnic Nationality)                                                   

The Ibe-sorimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom.

 

Sir Mathew Itsekure

(Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality)

 

Mrs Patience Ego Afujue                                            

(Ndokwa Ethnic Nationality)                                   

Hon Mark Ikpuri

(Urhobo Ethnic Nationality)

 

Chief John Etenero

(Isoko Ethnic Nationality).

Biography of Johann who Dethroned Dangote as Africa’s Richest Man

Biography of Johann who Dethroned Dangote as Africa’s Richest Man

South African Billionaire and businessman, Johann Rupert Is now   Africa’s richest man according to Forbes magazine. He dethroned Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote to regain the first position.

Rupert’s net worth is currently $12 billion according to Forbes Real-time Global Billionaires Ranking, while Dangote trails behind him with a net worth of $10.8 billion as of Friday.

Johann Peter Rupert is a South African billionaire businessman who is the chairman of the Swiss-based luxury-goods company Richemont and the South Africa-based company Remgro. He is the eldest son of business tycoon Anton Rupert and his wife Huberte. 

In 1979, Rupert founded Rand Merchant Bank, which later became one of South Africa’s largest investment banks. In 1984, he joined his father’s company Rembrandt Group, which was later renamed Richemont. Rupert has served as chairman of Richemont since 1998.   Richemont is a global luxury-goods company with a portfolio of brands that includes Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Montblanc, and Net-a-Porter. The company is one of the world’s leading luxury-goods companies, with annual sales of over €20 billion.  

Rupert is a controversial figure in South Africa. He has been criticized for his wealth and his close ties to the apartheid government. However, he is also respected for his business acumen and his commitment to philanthropy. 

Early life and education 

 Johann Rupert was born on June 1, 1950, in Stellenbosch, South Africa. He is the eldest son of Anton Rupert, a successful businessman and politician, and Huberte Rupert. Rupert’s father was the founder of the Rembrandt Group, a multinational conglomerate that later became Richemont. Rupert attended Paul Roos Gymnasium, a prestigious boarding school in Stellenbosch. He then went on to study economics and company law at the University of Stellenbosch. However, he dropped out of university after two years to pursue a career in business. 

Early career:

After dropping out of university, Rupert worked as a trainee at Chase Manhattan Bank in New York City. He then returned to South Africa and joined his father’s company, Rembrandt Group. Rupert quickly rose through the ranks of the company and was appointed chairman in 1984.

In 1989, Rembrandt Group was renamed Richemont. Rupert continued to lead the company and oversaw its expansion into the luxury goods market. Richemont acquired a number of well-known brands, including Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Montblanc. The company also expanded into new markets, such as China and India. 

In addition to Richemont, Rupert is also the chairman of Remgro, a South Africa-based investment holding company. Remgro has interests in a wide range of businesses, including financial services, healthcare, and mining.

Johann Rupert Philanthropy:

Rupert is a philanthropist and has donated millions of dollars to charitable causes. He is the founder of the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, which uses sport to help young people overcome social challenges. Rupert has also donated to a number of other charities, including the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the University of Stellenbosch.

Rupert has been a controversial figure in South Africa. He has been criticized for his wealth and his close ties to the apartheid government. However, he is also respected for his business acumen and his commitment to philanthropy.

Johann Rupert Personal life.

Rupert is married to Gaynor Rupert and they have three children. He is a keen golfer and a member of the Royal St. George’s Golf Club in England. 

Johann Rupert is one of the most successful businessmen in South Africa. He has built a global empire in the luxury goods market and is a major philanthropist. Rupert is a controversial figure, but there is no doubt that he is one of the most influential people in South Africa.   

 Total net worth of Johann Rupert was valued at $12 billion on Friday, June 16, while Aliko Dangote’s net worth stood at $10.8 billion.

HRH. Kenibara Vll Condoles with Smooth Over Death of Band Members

HRH. Kenibara Vll Condoles with Smooth over Death of Band Members 

Warri ____ Kenibara Vll, the Amadabo of Moko-Ama Sangana, HRH. Theophilus Moses of Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, has condoled and commiserated with the renowned ljaw born Niger Delta music maestro, Chief. Barrister S. Smooth aka. the Paddle of Niger Delta on the tragic death of five super star members of his music band.

The bizarred incident occurred on Sunday June 11, 2023, when the Smooth musical organization were on transit to Abuja to perform at the reception of the 10th National Assembly members elect inauguration when one of  their vehicles was involved in a fatal crash along Lokoja-Abuja road, leading to the death of five members of the musical band.

King Theophilus who is the Treasurer of ljaw National Congress, INC Central Zone, was accompanied by Double Chief. Ebi Wilson Pinapinawei, popularly known as Commander Biggy, Mrs. Laurenta Pinapinawei, Gen. Alamco of Amasuomo, Comrade Oyinbi Onduku, CEO/Publisher Niger Delta Mirror Ndm Newspaper Online and a veteran Bayelsa born broadcaster/Radio presenter, Mr. lzon-ebi Oyintunemibofa on Wednesday 21st June, 2023 during the Service of Songs/Night of Tribute in honour of the fallen ljaw music lcons at NPA Warri, condoled with Smooth and the families of the deceased, on the unfortunate incident, and prayed God to give them the strength to bear the irreplaceable colossal lost.

Kenibara Vll said the bizarred incident was a big blow to ljaw music entertainment industry, regrettable and had caused great pain to the bereaved families, loved ones and their fans all over the world. 

In his words, he said:

“It is with a deep sense of sorrow that I and the good people of Moko-Ama Sangana Brass commiserate with the families of those that lost their lives in the fatal motor accident of Sunday, June 11, 2023, along Lokoja Abuja road.

“Indeed, their deaths have caused a dark cloud and great sorrow for their families, loved ones, fans and the entire ljaw music entertainment industry.

“ I extend my heartfelt condolences to my dear brother and friend, Chief. Barrister Smooth, the bereaved families, loved ones and the entire ljaw nation on this sad incident.

“Their untimely deaths have undoubtedly caused great pain and sorrow to their families. I pray for quick healing to the injured ones and that such tragedy will never occur again in our lives.

“May God grant the families and loved ones the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and may the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Lord,” the statement added.