Details coming….
Delta NLC chair leads protest, says 70 percent of salary is now spent on transportation
By Austin Ogwuda
Delta State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku said the increase in the price of fuel to over N600, occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government is totally beyond the reach of the average workers.
He said the situation had left workers spending over 70 per cent of their salaries on transportation leaving them with nothing to pay the school fees of their children.
The Labour boss stated this when he led protesters to Government House, Asaba where he appealed to Governor Oborevwori to consider providing palliatives for the people just as some other States had done.
His words, “as workers and indigenes of Delta State, we have been managing to survive because for those of us who work, our salaries are fixed and small.
“We can no longer breath because the policies of the Federal government are choking us and poverty has increased astronomically and that is why we have come here today to cry to our Governor who is the father of this State to take our message to the President of this Country, that they should stop all these anti-people and anti-workers policies that they are churning out everyday.
“Let them bring policies that would make the people live and be happy”.Senior Policy Adviser, Rt. Hon.
Funkekeme Solomon who received them on behalf of the governor said “the Governor is happy with the way you have presented the concerns and issues affecting workers this morning.
“Governor Oborevwori is a man of the people and he is very conscious of the need to be people-oriented in his government.
“As a member of the National Economic Council, he is fully aware of his responsibility to Deltans and the message you have brought will be dispatched and forwarded to the President.
“The concerns you have raised are not peculiar to the workers, it is a matter for all Deltans and all Nigerians.
No party is spared of the consequences of the policies the Federal Government has rolled out.
“As a Government”, he went on, “we are with you and we have noted what you have said about Delta and as soon as we have the State Executive Council in place, Labour will be invited for talks because he needs your input.
“There is no way the Government will go ahead without considering your input. So be rest assured that Labour is an integral part, a stakeholder in this Government.
“Ours is a grassroot Government, one that knows the pains of the people and every policy will be geared towards ensuring that the people’s interest comes first before any other interest.
“Not only will we take your message to the President, your concern would be examined and Labour will be part and parcel of the negotiation for a robust people-oriented and people-friendly palliative”, he further stated.
Support Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration, Delta IPAC chair urges opposition parties
By Austin Ogwuda
Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, Delta State Chapter, Comrade Emeka Bidokwu had called on the opposition parties in the State to join hands together by rallying round Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration for the overall interest and development of the State.
He stated this when he led the leadership of the Council on a courtesy visit to the governor at Government House Asaba.
He explained that the aim of the visit was to pledge loyalty to the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration, noting that after election it was expedient that all candidates, their supporters and different political parties rally round the winner for the growth and development of the State.
The IPAC chairman congratulated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on his victory at the polls, successful inauguration and steps taken to achieve his M.O.R.E agenda.
Responding, Governor Oborevwori said that Inter-Party Advisory Council has contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s democracy through its advocacy and public policy analysis.
Said he, “as the umbrella body of all registered political parties in Nigeria, the Inter-Party Advisory Council has a critical role to play in strengthening democracy through advocacy and public policy analysis.
“It is my honest opinion that IPAC has contributed to the growth of our democracy and deserves to be appreciated for their honest and selfless effort to build a better Nigeria.
“It always makes its voice heard on issues of national importance and we appreciate the role they are playing to ensure peace and stability in our polity.
“I am particularly impressed with the Delta State chapter of the body. I know that your interventions in matters regarding politics and governance in the state have been guided by maturity, objectivity, fairness and transparency.
“It has been firm but not unfriendly, for that we are grateful and hope that you will continue to follow the path of wisdom and moderation in your public statements and actions”.
Continuing, the governor said “we have commenced the process of putting together a winning team that will deliver on this agenda and in the next few weeks and months, the pace of work will be accelerated.
“Meanwhile, as you may be aware, the issue of pension of local government workers and promotion arrears of state workers have been addressed.
“As a government, we will continue to cooperate with IPAC to build Delta State that we can always be proud of.
“This government is open to all Deltans and I will be transparent and everybody will work together to advance our dear state.
“What is more important is to deliver the dividends of democracy to all Deltans, so I assure you that we will continue to partner together to move the state forward,” he further stated.
Delta leads other States in Mandatory Health Insurance Scheme implementation – OBOREVWORI
By Austin Ogwuda
“We are the first State to implement the Mandatory Health Insurance Scheme, with over 1.2 million enrollees.
That makes us the only State that has achieved over 20 per cent coverage of its citizens in the health scheme”, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
He stated this Tuesday while receiving the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), led by its National Chairman, Pharm. Wale Oladigbolu and National President of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Professor Cyril Osifo on courtesy visit.
The governor made it clear that accessible and affordable health care is non negotiable for a healthy, vibrant and productive population.
He said that the State Government would continue to accord priority attention to the health of Deltans.
Said he: “It is gratifying to know that this conference is focusing on Universal Health Coverage. Accessible and affordable healthcare is a non-negotiable for a healthy, vibrant and productive population.
“Health is life; hence the implementation of the mandatory health insurance scheme must be pursued with vigour. I am happy to let you know that Delta
“This administration will continue to expand the capacity of the Delta State Contributory Health Commission to maintain its leadership position in the country”, he added
Governor Oborevwori assured that the State Government would continue to partner with the Community Pharmacists to improve healthcare delivery in the State.
“Obviously, Community Pharmacists have an important role to play if the nation is to achieve its goal of universal health coverage.
“As a Government, we shall continue to leverage on the knowledge, skill and expertise of the Community Pharmacists to deliver quality health care to our people because they are the bridge between patients and medical practitioners.
“They offer vital services, from dispensing medications to counselling patients on proper usage, contributing significantly to disease prevention and health promotion.
“We see you as partners in the healthcare delivery chain and we will continue to provide the enabling environment for you to discharge your services,” Oborevwori added.
The Governor further remarked that Delta is a peaceful State that would continue to welcome visitors from all walks of life.
“It is always our pleasure to host National bodies in Delta State for their conferences.
“In the last eight years, Asaba is gradually acquiring the reputation of the ‘conference capital’ of Nigeria. Last month, we played host to the Optometrist Association of Nigeria for their 46th annual conference.
“This goes to show that Delta State is very peaceful and welcoming and I am confident that you will have a very fruitful conference here,” he stated.
Earlier, Pharm. Oladigbolu said they were in the State for the National Scientific Conference of the Association, tagged: “Asaba 2023” with the theme: “Building Effective Community Pharmacy Services For Universal Health Coverage”.
Oladigbolu said the Asaba Conference is being attended by over 8,000 Pharmacists and 132 pharmaceutical companies operating in the Country, adding that no fewer than 107 Pharmacists in Delta State have been trained on vaccine administration.
Mopping up of firearms and flushing out criminals from Ekpan yielding result says PPRO
By Austin Ogwuda
Move by the the Delta State Police command to mop up arms and flush out criminal elements in Ekpan and environs has started yielding fruits.
The State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Bright Edafe, DSP told journalists at a press briefing in Asaba yesterday that the success being recorded was as a result of new strategy adopted by the command.
According to him, “following the deployment of a new DPO to Ekpan Division with a firm directive from the CP Delta State, CP Wale Abass to flush out criminals in Ekpan and environs, the DPO held stakeholders’ meetings with residents where he warned that crime will not be tolerated in the area and advised those in possession of firearm to respects themselves and surrender their weapons.
“Some residents in Ekpan yielded to this advise and dropped their arms at a conspicuous place in the community, and the DPO alerted. The DPO swiftly mobilized his men and recovered them in turn”.
Edafe listed the various arms as follows: ” RECOVERY OF A G-3 RIFLE, ONE SMG RIFLE, FOUR ENGLISH PUMP ACTION GUNS, TWO LOCALLY MADE GUNS AND TWO LOCALLY FABRICATED PISTOLS”.
He added that”efforts are on to sanitize the community and environs”.
He also told the press how a stolen car belonging to Ondo State government was recovered here in Delta, noting that the arrested suspects and the exhibit have been transferred to the Ondo State Police command.
Revisiting Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s magic wand for crisis management
By Austin Ogwuda
BARELY a week ago, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State let the cat out of the bag by sharing the secret behind breaking record as the longest serving Speaker in Delta State.
Actually, it was in the public domain that there were attempts to impeach him while he was Speaker in the Delta State House of Assembly but he survived like the proverbial cat with nine lives.
The Town Hall Media reliably gathered that the last attempt almost succeeded but he still survived.
Even nosey reporters had concluded that the last attempt before his gubernatorial race began was a done deal having privy to the number of members who had purportedly signed the Impeachment Notice.
But at the end of the day, there was no dice.
What happened was the question asked within the political arena.
Some political pundits postulated that it was his former ‘oga’ ex Governor Ifeanyi Okowa who saved him from the clutches of all the undercover impeachment plots by some of his aggrieved colleagues as he (Oborevwori) usually ran to him for protection.
Yes, Okowa, undeniably, the political ‘god father’ of Oborevwori must have shielded him to some extent, the real secret behind his survival as a Speaker for that length of period has been revealed.
This reporter chooses to term it as ‘Oborevwori School of Conflict Resolution’.
Why?
Because he, too, has passed through that school, which he openly confessed was the magic wand that saved him from the political tsunami that usually sweeps away former occupants of the enviable post of Speaker in the State House of Assembly.
Then came Wednesday last week the governor disclosed the real secret unknown to the public before.
That was the day he played host to the leadership of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators of Nigeria (ICMC), led by the Vice President of the Institute, Ambassador Victor Ojaide during a courtesy visit to Government House, Asaba.
He noted that the programmes of the Institute were very vital as they helped in building the human capacity needed to entrench a sound culture of peace that would ultimately engender societal growth and development, pointing out that the ICMC programmes, which he undertook, actually helped him to successfully pilot the affairs of the State House of Assembly for a period of six years.
His words, “I am very happy to welcome you to Delta State Government House. I am very proud to be a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators of Nigeria.
“There is no way I can easily forget what happened when I was doing my assignments. It was tough but at the end of the day, it came out well. I want to sincerely thank you for the encouragement.
“The lnstitute was the first lnstitute to award me a Fellow. The ICMC is a programme that will humble you and change your life style. The Sheriff of 10 years ago is not the same as today.
“The programme helped me to manage the State House of Assembly, where you hardly see a Speaker that survives three years. But I survived six years.
“Delta State will collaborate with you in alternative dispute resolutions because we are a peace loving State. We will continue to encourage you in our own little way”, he further added.
The Governor further disclosed that he encouraged some members of the State legislature to become Fellows of the Institute when he was the Speaker of the House, adding that he would also encourage members of the State Exco to join the Institute now that he is a Governor.
According to him, most of the things that one learns from the Institute are things that would obviously sharpen and refine you as a public servant and as an individual.
On the Institute’s proposal to establish Conflict Resolution Centres in the 25 Local Government areas of the State, Oborevwori said, “I feel that a major center should be built in the State capital where people can converge for training instead of trying to build centres of the Institute in all the Local Government Areas.
“You can also go to the Local Government Councils occasionally, to train people as a one-off thing and come back. So, concentrating on the major center here will be best and more effective.”
Earlier, the Vice President of the Institute, Ambassador Victor Ojaide, who applauded the Governor for accepting to receive them on courtesy visit, described the Governor as a consensus builder who made history by becoming the longest serving Speaker in the history of the State.
Ambassador Ojaide, who represented the President of the Institute, Dr. Agada John Elachi during the visit, said the lnstitute wants to create in every Local Government Area in the State, a Conflict Resolution Centre where people would be trained on conflict resolution.
It is now clear that it is important to enroll into this school for clearer perspective and ingenuity towards handling crisis.
Even in the advanced countries certain trainings, acquisition of relevant skills and knowledge for instance para military background are part of requisite qualifications for occupying sensitive and certain offices.
Therefore, ours can’t be different as this school definitely baked Sheriff Oborevwori to navigate through as had told the story himself.
Oborevwori story above aptly says it all.
Political sagacity, not earned on a platter of gold, acumen, doggedness, formal and informal schooling and most importantly ability to thrive in crisis must come into play.
Operation demolish all illegal structures in Delta begins Monday next week
By Austin Ogwuda
DELTA State Government says it is commencing the pulling down of all llegal structures obstructing or blocking natural water channels in major cities, especially Warri, Asaba and other parts of Delta State.
This was contained in a statement by the Director-General, Special Duties, Chief Frank Omare and made available to The Town Hall Media on Monday.
According to the statement, “the rains are here with us. With blocked natural waterways and drainages our people suffer from flooding leading to the destruction of their hard-earned property as well as disruption of social and economic activities.
“It is for these reasons that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State through the Office of the Director-General Special Duties will from Monday, August 7th, 2023, commence the opening up and demolition of illegal structures erected on natural water channels thereby obstructing the free flow of water to existing rivers in Warri, Uvwie, Udu, Sapele, Ughelli and other parts of the state.
“The time has come for us to get it right. Enough of the sufferings of our people whenever it rains because some people deliberately built on natural water channels,” the statement added.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had recently warned that his administration would demolish all structures built along waterways, frowning against dumping of refuse on drainages to give way for free flow of flood water.
“A few days ago I was sent a viral video on the flooded Airport road in Warri, which of course, was caused by our people because they built structures along waterways”, said the governor.
Police in Delta gun down kidnap suspect, rescue victim
By Austin Ogwuda
A kidnap victim has been rescued unhurt while one member of the kidnap gang that seized him was gunned down.
Delta State Public Relations Officer PPRO, Bright Edafe, DSP confirmed the incident in a press statement on Sunday.
According to him “on 29th July 2023, at about 2300hours, Police patrol team attached to Ebrumede Police station while on stop and search duty flagged down a Lexus saloon car (reg. number withheld) but the occupants on noticing the police, jumped down from the vehicle with a double barrel gun and took to their heels.
“Some of the police operatives gave them a hot chase during which one of them bearing the firearm was neutralized (gunned down) while others escaped.
“On a closer look at the abandoned vehicle”, the PPRO continued, “a kidnapped victim was seen blindfolded, he was immediately rescued by the operatives and taken to the police station where he stated that he was kidnapped along Jakpa Road, Warri on same date at about 2100hours.
“The victim further narrated that when the suspected kidnappers using a tricycle hit his vehicle from behind, and in an attempt to confront them, they brought out the double barrel gun and forced him into his own vehicle.
“Before he was rescued, he had already paid sum of seven hundred thousand naira ransom to their account through bank transfer. Victim has been reunited with his family while manhunt for the other fleeing suspects is ongoing.
“CP Wale Abass while applauding the gallantry of the policemen, urged other officers of the command to follow suit and exhibit courage in line of their respective duties.
“He also urged members of the public to continue to trust, and partner with the police especially in the area of information noting that the Police cannot do it alone without the support of the community”, the statement added.
My name must have been taken to different altars praying for favour over appointments, says Gov Oborevwori
By Austin Ogwuda
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has revealed that some people who are desirous of securing political appointments in his administration may have taken his name to many altars for prayers but was praying to God too for divine direction in the distribution of appointments.
The governor also disclosed that his becoming a governor had earlier been predicted over ten years ago.
He stated this at the thanksgiving service in honour of his Senior Political Adviser, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo at All Saints’ Cathedral, Ughelli on Sunday.
The Governor frowned at the protest by Ewu Community over appointments to the kingdom, noting that appointments were at the discretion of the governor and appealed to Deltans to join hands with his administration in order to consolidate on the tempo of sustainable development in the State.
Said he, “Ughelli South has gotten Senior Political Adviser, Executive Director DESOPADEC and Commissioner. After giving you a project of over N20bn, you are still coming to protest?
“As Governor, my local government has gotten just one appointment which is the Commissioner designate because I have promised Deltans I want to be Governor for all,” he stated.
Continuing, he said, “Senator Aguariavwodo is someone I knew many years ago, and sometimes there are things you say and it will come to pass.
“When I was burying my mother at Osubi Trade Fair complex some years ago, he came and saw the crowd and he said with this crowd you are qualified to contest for Governor.
“He said it over ten years ago in 2013 and that prophesy has come to pass. So when he decided to support me, it is because God wants to fulfil what he has said.
“Not many politicians”, he went on, ” have the privilege of serving in the Red Chamber and also in the Green Chamber and decided to come down to his State to serve.
“Senator Aguariavwodo belongs to that rare elite group. I congratulate you on this appointment because you are a very humble and respected man and it is my prayer that God will grant you the wisdom to succeed in your new role”.
Earlier in his sermon, Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Bendel and Bishop of Ughelli Diocese (Anglican Communion), The Most Rev’d Cyril Odutemu in his sermon titled “Be strong in the Lord”, said Christians were confronted with several spiritual warfare and charged leaders to be strong “as leadership is a constant struggle to get things right in the interest of the people”.
The Cleric said leaders must demonstrate strength and uncommon courage in the face of daunting challenges.
“Whatever you do in offering advice to the Governor, you should be adequately guided by truth; don’t allow your garment of righteousness to be stained”, and urged the Governor to keep to his promises and to always stick to the truth.
The thanksgiving service was attended by the immediate past Deputy Governor, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; his Deputy, Rt Hon. Arthur Akpowowo and the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Kingsley Esiso among others.
Delta State League kicks off Wednesday this week at three centres.
By Austin Ogwuda
The 2023 Delta State League is billed to kickoff on August 2nd (Wednesday) at three centers, namely Asaba, Oleh and Sapele.
Chairman of the Delta State League Management Committee, Mr. Lucky Sunday said that two matches will be played daily starting from 2 and 4pm simultaneously in each zone.
According to him, Asaba group will have Ihu-Iyase FC to take on Rising Stars FC in the opening game by 2pm before P. Football Academy game by 4 pm while
in Oleh center, Osevan FC will trade tackles with Flourish FC by 2pm and Ogume FC versus Delta Marines will commence by 4pm.
In the Sapele center, Ovian United will battle Ogumbor United by 2pm before Igho FC and Itamah FC game will take center stage by 4pm.
The Chairman of the Delta State Football Association, DFA, Hon. Ken Nwoamucha said that the winning prize will not change.
He said the first prize is 1 million, Runners up, 500 thousand and 3rd prize 300 hundred thousand naira respectively.
Aladja/Ogbe-Ijoh crisis: Sheathe your sword, Oborevwori cautions …. promises to revisit the White Paper
By Austin Ogwuda
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has called on the warring Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh communities in Udu and Warri South-West Local Government Areas, respectively to cease fire and eschew all forms of fighting over the intractable land dispute between both communities.
The governor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon in Asaba on Friday, said that security agencies have been deployed to the area to bring normalcy to the warring communities.
He warned that the government would no longer tolerate further breach of peace in the two communities and urged leaders and youths of the communities to preach peaceful co-existence rather than taking up arms against themselves over land dispute.
He said the government would revisit the White Paper on the crisis with a view to taking necessary measures to bring a lasting solution to the crisis.
The statement further reads, “let me appeal to the youths and leaders of both Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh communities to cease fire and stop further hostilities on the disputed land.
“No amount of land is worth dying for because when you fight and kill yourselves, the land will still remain.
“I have directed security agencies to move to the disputed area to forestall further breakdown of law and order while we revisit the White Paper on the crisis.
“The Government will not hesitate to bring the full weight of the law on anyone found to be instigating crises between both communities,” the statement added.
You are one of the most respected Monarchs in Nigeria, Gbagi salutes Asagba at 99
By Austin Ogwuda
Governorship candidate on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and former Minister of State for Education, Olorogun Barr. Kenneth Gbagi FNIM, OON has felicitated with the indigenes of Asaba and His Royal Highness, Obi (Prof) Chike Edozien, the Asagba of Asaba on the occasion of his 99th birthday anniversary.
Gbagi in a press statement by his Spokesman, Kenneth Orusi, said, “I rejoice with the people of Asaba, who must be very proud to have one of the most respected traditional rulers in the State and country.
“Your passion for the well-being of your subjects, the State and the Nation at large is legendary.
“Your devotion to development and peace in all facets is quite commendable and worthy of emulation.
“As God Almighty blesses you with long life, my prayer is that the state and country will continue to benefit from the wisdom and generous thoughts emanating from the throne.
“I wish the Asagba, who retired as a Professor Emeritus of the University of North Carolina, appointed a Professor in 1961 and became Dean of the college of Medicine in 1962, good health, prosperity and long life”, the statement added.
You are a bridge builder, made Asaba hospitable, Gov Oborevwori hails Asagba of Asaba as he clocks 99 years
By Austin Ogwuda
GOVERNOR Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has congratulated the Asagba of Asaba, Obi (Prof) Chike Edozien on his 99th birth anniversary, describing him as “an iconic scholar per excellence, bridge builder and oldest living Professor in any
discipline”.
The governor in a congratulatory message signed on his behalf by the Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba on Friday, said that Obi Chike Edozien is a distinguished medical scholar and Nigeria’s first Professor of Physiology.
He remarked that since his ascension to the throne in 1991 as the 13th Asagba of Asaba, Obi Edozien had continued to provide purposeful leadership for his people and residents of Asaba, the State capital.
“Under the monarch’s reign, Asaba has since become one of the fastest growing cities in the Country in terms of population and development in infrastructure.
“I laud the respected monarch for his astute contributions to making Asaba comfortable and hospitable for Nigerians, who troop into the Delta State capital for one business or the other.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Delta, I joyfully celebrate with His Royal Majesty, Obi Professor Joseph Chike Edozien, CFR, the Asagba of Asaba on the occasion of his 99th birth anniversary.
“As we look forward to the centenary celebration, we pray that the Almighty God will continue to grant you more wisdom and divine health to continue serving mankind,” Oborevwori stated.
Why I survived in office as Speaker for 6 years – Gov Oborevwori …… impeachment swept others after 3 years
By Austin Ogwuda
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has disclosed the reason behind his survival as Speaker during the six years he held that position at the Delta State House of Assembly.
He noted that he was the first to achieve that feat by occupying that enviable position as Speaker for clear six years without ousting as other Speakers barely survived more three years.
This is the second time Governor Oborevwori was reflecting on his sojourn at the House of Assembly as a Speaker.
He had during the thanksgiving service of the present Speaker, the Rt Hon. Emomotimi Guwor held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God at Uvwie, Sunday, said that “for you to survive as Speaker, as a leader, you must be humble, transparent and accountable and it is on record that I paid N530 million into the treasury and I also left money in the coffers of the State House of Assembly.
“There is no House of Assembly in the Country that has done what I did and it is my prayer that you succeed and perform better than I did.
“I survived six years as Speaker because I had a good Governor who listens and I urge you to always do the right thing despite pressures.
Then came on Wednesday, he took to the memory lane again while receiving the leadership of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators of Nigeria (ICMC) led by the Vice President of the Institute, Ambassador Victor Ojaide on a courtesy visit to him at the Government House, Asaba.
He noted that the programmes of the Institute were very vital, recalling that the ICMC programmes, which he undertook, actually helped him to successfully pilot the affairs of the State House of Assembly for a period of six years.
Said he, “I am very happy to welcome you to Delta State Government House. I am very proud to be a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators of Nigeria.
“There is no way I can easily forget what happened when I was doing my assignments. It was tough but at the end of the day, it came out well. I want to sincerely thank you for the encouragement.
“The lnstitute was the first lnstitute to award me a Fellow. The ICMC is a programme that will humble you and change your life style. The Sheriff of 10 years ago is not the same as today.
“The programme helped me to manage the State House of Assembly, where you hardly see a Speaker that survives three years. But I survived six years”, he reflected with nostalgia.
Governor Oborevwori assured them that “Delta State will collaborate with you in alternative dispute resolutions because we are a peace loving State. We will continue to encourage you in our own little way”.
Earlier, the Vice President of the Institute, Ambassador Victor Ojaide, who applauded the Governor for accepting to receive them on courtesy visit, described the Governor as a consensus builder who made history by becoming the longest serving Speaker in the history of the State.
Ambassador Ojaide, who represented the President of the Institute, Dr. Agada John Elachi during the visit, said the lnstitute wants to create in every Local Government Area in the State, a Conflict Resolution Centre where people would be trained on conflict resolution.
How my polling agents were chased away with guns, Gbagi testifies at Election Tribunal
By Austin Ogwuda
Governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi has testified before the Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Asaba that his party agents were chased away with guns from the polling centers during the last governorship election in Delta State.
He told the tribunal that one of those chased away from the collation center had his accreditation card stolen and a foreign name superimposed under his name and photograph.
Gbagi, a renowned Criminologist told the tribunal, under cross examination that those polling agents refused to sign because of the irregularities, electoral malpractices and non-compliance to the electoral Act 2023.
He stated thus, “because of the massive fraud and what went wrong, our polling agents did not sign.
“Our polling agents were chased away by guns and they did not sign.
“For emphasis purposes my noble Lords, one of the collating officers at the State collating office, was actually removed and his photograph changed depriving him from participating.
“One of them is here, his photograph was stolen and a foreign name was superimposed with his name on that day he was chased away from the collation center”, he further stated.
Demand for Local Govt Identification/ State of Origin Letter very worrisome, Delta Deputy Gov laments
By Austin Ogwuda
DEPUTY Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme has expressed worry over the emphasis attached to the issue Local Govt Identification and State of Origin across the country as capable of promoting tribalism.
Onyeme made this known when HRM Barr. Oghenejabor Augustine, the Odiologbo of Ibrede Kingdom in Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State paid him a courtesy call at Government House Asaba.
According to hm, “as a people, we should all see ourselves as Nigerians and we should relegate tribalism to the background.
“If we shun tribalism and treat Nigerians based on merit rather than tribe, we will make more progress in the country.
“This local government and state of origin identification letter is not helping us as Nigerians.
If you are looking for an Accountant, what has the state of origin got to do with his professionalism?” the Deputy Governor asked.
He assured the people of Ibrede that though, they speak Isoko language, the Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration will not discriminate against anybody based on language, tribe or for whatever reason.
Rather, Onyeme asserted that “we will not discriminate against any tribe or group.
“Rt. Hon. Oborevwori will be fair to all Deltans as there will be even spread of infrastructure by this administration”.
Earlier, the Odiologbo. had told the Deputy Governor that they were in his office to rejoice with him for his successful assumption of duty and also, intimate him of the needs of his kingdom of the needs of his kingdom.
He said, “We are majorly, members of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP; we are the Isoko speaking people of Ndokwa East and want to appeal for political patronage of our people in the area of appointments and provision of infrastructure”.
Delta loses former governorship aspirant, Gov Oborevwori mourns
By Austin Ogwuda
Renowned philanthropist and a one -time governorship aspirant in Delta State, Chief Charles Obule is dead.
Obule, who held the traditional title of “Erhi of Okpe Kingdom”, reportedly died on Tuesday after a protracted illness at the age of 65.
Until his death, the late Obule was a chieftain and leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the State and was a one time Governorship and Senatorial aspirant of the party.
Delta State governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori in a condolence message through his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, on Wednesday in Asaba, commiserated with the people of Sapele, Okpe Kingdom and Urhobo nation over the demise of the grassroots politician and community leader.
According to the Governor, the deceased was an astute politician, successful businessman and affable philanthropist, who was very popular among his people.
The statement reads: “on behalf of the Government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of a gentleman and grassroots politician, Chief Charles Ufuoma Obule, who died on Tuesday evening.
“The news of his passing was a terrible shock to me. He was a gentleman-politician, and he distinguished himself in the service of his people as a great philanthropist.
“Chief Obule was a versatile lawyer, prominent businessman and astute politician who excelled in all that he did. He was a humanist par excellence. Obule Group of Schools and Medical Centre, which he founded, are renowned for quality education and healthcare delivery to the people of Sapele and the Urhobo nation at a hugely subsidised cost.
“As a grassroots politician and party financier, Chief Obule contributed greatly to the growth of the PDP in Sapele Local Government Area and Delta State. His death is a big loss not just to the PDP and Urhobo nation, but also to the entire Delta State.
“I pray for God’s comfort and strength for the bereaved family and all those whose lives he touched. And may his soul rest in peace”, the statement added.
See retirement from service as important milestone in life – Delta Perm Sec
By ONORIODE ETATSEMI
THE Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary in the Delta Ministry of Justice, Mr. Omamuzo Erebe has described retirement from the civil service as an important milestone in the life of any civil servant in the public service.
Erebe stated this in Asaba at a send forth party organised in honour of a retiring staff of the Ministry, Mrs. Victoria Emephia, who attained the mandatory retirement age of 60 years.
He stated that civil servants should look forward to retirement with joy, as it was a culmination of the hard work put in by them in service to their State.
Erebe stated that Mrs. Emephia, who was bowing out as a Deputy Director in the State Civil Service, was a committed legal officer who would be remembered for her diligence, humility, love, and respect for all.
Staff of the Ministry also poured encomiums on Mrs Emephia, describing her as a very humble and dedicated officer.
In her response, Mrs. Emephia said that she was overwhelmed with joy by the honour done her and commended her colleagues for their support during her service years.
Mrs. Emephia paid glowing tributes to the immediate past Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Isaiah Bozimo, for his outstanding efforts and innovations in repositioning the Ministry. She said she benefitted immensely from his transformation initiatives.
She also commended the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for how he has effectively run the affairs of the Ministry.
The high point of the ceremony was the presentation of a letter of commendation by the Ministry of Justice to the retiring staff. The celebrant later cut her 60th year birthday cake and was presented with gifts by different departments of the Ministry.
Legal Options available to Chief James IBORI on the Confiscation of His Properties By Crown Court in London
BY HON. DR. TONYE TIMI
One read with utter trepidation and displeasure the order made by British Judge David Tomlison of the London Southwark Crown Court in the case between the British Government and former governor of Delta State, Nigeria, Chief James Ibori.
The ruling by Judge Tomlinson, ordering the forfeiture and sale of Chief Ibori’s property which value as stated by the court is put at £101.5 million ($130m) is to be disposed of as proceeds of corruption.
We know that this is a continuation of a case that has lingered since 2011 and for which Chief Ibori was previously sentenced to a thirteen (13) year term in British jail, which he has duly served.
Chief Ibori has served his punishment and so enough should be enough in the hounding and torture of the man by British Courts and by extension, the British government.
It appears now that the British court system is persecuting and badgering a man rendered hostage by the failure of its investigative institutions and punished more for hate than for the legal infractions committed by him. We are informed that many of the properties under the custody of the British government do not all belong to Chief Ibori but also to friends and business partners.
It is disappointing that the British court continues to beat on a man who has been brought down by its high handedness and even now continues to badger him even after he has served his punishment.
While expressing support for Chief James Ibori in his commitment to appeal this noxious and vexatious judgement by the British Southwark Crown Court, one is quite aware that there are other options available to pursue.
In principle a confiscation order is made after conviction to deprive the defendant of the benefit derivable from his crime. The prosecutor is able to take steps to preserve assets so that they are available to pay the order.
If the order is not paid voluntarily then either the magistrates’ court enforces the order as if it were a fine or the prosecutor may apply to the High Court to appoint a receiver.
Under what powers can a court make confiscation order?
In the United Kingdom, the Proceeds of Crime Act (2002) introduced something known as a ‘confiscation order’.
A confiscation order is awarded to a person deemed to have significantly benefited from crime, with the intention of making those issued with the order to pay back any such gains, or face further sanction from the court.
It can only be given in the event of somebody being convicted of, or pleaded guilty to, a crime from which they have derived financial benefit and are set to be sentenced in the crown court.
The amount a person needs to pay under a confiscation order will be decided based on how much it is deemed that the defendant has earned from their crimes. Traditionally this is calculated by subtracting any priority payments from the value of the defendant’s realizable assets.
It has been argued that paying back a confiscation order can require the defendant to sell off their assets, even those considered to have been purchased legitimately.
The Drug Trafficking Act 1994 (DTA) and Part VI of the Criminal Justice Act 1988 as amended by the Powers of Criminal Courts Act 1995 (CJA) gives the Crown Court powers to make confiscation orders.
The CJA also gives the magistrates’ courts a limited power to make confiscation orders.
The following are some of the listed legal options that the ex- governor can explore:
(I) Appeal the confiscation and compensation orders. If that happens, on appeal, the compensation order may be reduced or revoked. (He can obtain the reduction of a confiscation order made under sections Section 17 of the DTA and Section 83 of the CJA.
The procedure commences with first, applying to the High Court for a “certificate of inadequacy”.
If a certificate is issued, he may apply to the Crown Court for the balance remaining under the order to be reduced.
That court may then substitute such lesser amount as it deems just and reduce the period of imprisonment in default;
(2) Apply to the court for extension of time to pay to obey the confiscation order. Section 5 of the Serious Crime Act of 2015 makes provision for extension of time window for between three to six months.
Conclusively for the ex- governor to adequately explore the options listed above among others, he must engage the services of the following professionals:
(1) Asides from a litigation legal practitioner, he should engage the services of CONFISCATION SOLICITORS
(ll) Also he has to engage the services of FORENSIC ACCOUNTANTS. It has been argued that the initial figure in a confiscation can often be overly harsh when compared to the actual crime committed.
Lowering the amount in a confiscation order can be a difficult and lengthy process.
However, a dedicated, expert forensic accountant will possess all of the skills and knowledge required to prove that the amount should be lowered on his behalf.
A forensic accountant possesses the required expertise to analyse relevant data and documents in order to uncover new evidence regarding things such as legitimate income, in order to separate it from the amount deemed to have been gained through crime, they can also accurately trace payments between multiple parties to attempt to prove legitimacy, and lower the amount owed.
We hope that the once revered British sense of Justice and fairness will be upheld in this long drawn case at the appellate Court.
Hon. Dr. ‘Tonye Timi, a Lecturer was a former Member, Delta State House of Assembly
Delta workers jubilate as Gov Oborevwori approves payment of N5 billion promotion arrears
By Austin Ogwuda,
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Tuesday, announced the approval of payment of N5 billion promotion arrears to workers in the State.
The payment he said would be effected in three tranches, commencing in August and end in October 2023.
He disclosed this while addressing workers during an unscheduled visit to the Professor Chike Edozien Secretariat in Asaba, the State capital.
Oborevwori said the approval was sequel to a demand by the workers prior to the Governorship election in the State, which he promised to pay when he comes into office.
The Governor said he has fulfilled his promise to the workers by approving payment of the promotion arrears and urged workers in the State to remain committed to their duties.
Said he, “as a promise keeper, I came here for two reasons; to see how you are doing in your work places and to bring the good news that the promotion arrears you have been demanding for all these years, have been approved.
“I have come here to notify you that I have approved it, because I am Governor for all of you and for all Deltans as I promised you with my M.O.R.E Agenda.
“We know the money is huge; its almost N5 billion, but I promised to pay you and I have signed the memo and approved it.
“You will be paid in three tranches from next month, August to October 2023. Continue to do more and work for the interest of this State. I thank you very much for your support and please don’t play with your work.
“I can come here anytime without informing the Head of Service. Today, I decided to inform him but the next time I am coming, I won’t notify you and I will just go into one of these offices to see what they are doing,” he said.
Earlier, the State Head of Service, Mr Reginald Bayoko, who conducted the Governor round the Secretariat, expressed appreciation to the Governor for approving the payment of the promotion arrears and for visiting the workers.
He pledged the unalloyed commitment of the State’s workforce to the actualisation of the Governor’s M.O.R.E Agenda.
The Governor’s visit threw the workers into frenzy mood, singing praises of the Governor for being the first Governor to visit workers in their Secretariat.
We are putting up measures to mitigate flooding, says Delta Govt
By Austin Ogwuda
Delta State Government says it is alread putting up measures to mitigate the effects of flooding in the State following the predictions of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet, and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency, NIHSA, warning that Nigeria will experience severe flood in 2023.
State deputy governor, Sir Monday Onyeme stated this while receiving the Ndokwa Neku Union, NNU led by General Mike Ndubisi rtd on a courtesy visit at Government House.
Responding to a request by the Union that government should act fast to check the effects of flood on the people living in coastal communities, Onyeme disclosed that government was already working on such.
His words, “on the flood situation in Ndokwa nation, I understand that the state government is already taking proactive measures to mitigate or reduce the negative effects of flood on our people.
“I can assure you that government is working on that because, it has become worrisome that every year, our people, Deltans who are living in coastal communities are affected by flood.
“I am also happy that the first motion that was moved by our son who we sent to the national assembly, that is, the member representing Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Nnamdi Ezechi was about the flooding in Ndokwa nation and Delta State in general.
“I was very happy to see him talk about flooding in Ndokwa nation and I am sure that he is going to get something out of it; so, let us keep hope alive.”
The Deputy Governor who expressed gratitude to the NNU and Ndokwa people in general for their overwhelming support, also, assured the people that the construction of multi-billion naira Beneku Bridge which was started by the immediate past administration would be completed.
He said, “you raised the issue of completion of ongoing projects, the Beneku bridge across the Ase Creek and the Obiaruku/Umuebu road, I want to assure that these two projects will be completed by this administration and more roads will be constructed in the state to open up our communities.”
Earlier, Gen. Ndubisi (rtd) had told the Deputy Governor that Ndokwa people were happy to see him emerge as the first person from the area to hold such an office and assured him of the continual support of the people.
Present during the courtesy visit include the members representing Ndokwa West, Ndokwa East and Ukwuani at the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Charles Emetulu, Hon. Emeka Osamuta and Hon. Chukwudi Daphey, Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Sir Christopher Osakwe, Chairmen of Ndokwa West and Ukwuani Local Government Councils, Hon. Obi Nzete and Hon. Possible Ajede, among others.
Help curb illegal activities on maritime domain, Oborevwori tells Navy
By Austin Ogwuda
GOVERNOR Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has called on the Nigerian Navy to work assiduously in curbing illegal activities on Nigeria’s maritime domain.
Receiving the Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Yenagoa, Rear Admiral U.S.A Chugali on courtesy at Government House the governor said “we know how critical our terrain is and that is why this visit is very important because Delta State is 40 percent coastal and we need all the support from the Navy.
“I know the Navy has done a lot in securing our waterways and that is why our oil production is going smoothly and as a State Government, we encourage you to do more.
“One of the representatives here is someone that I have worked with in 2009 when he was the military Amnesty Coordinator and I was the State Coordinator.
“We worked very well together and we covered a lot of riverine areas in the State and I know he understands our terrain very well. I am assured that with him present, our State will be more secure.
“I want to mention that a lot of illegal activities are still existing, but in time such activities will come to an end due to your commitment, as it is the duty of the Navy and Marine Police to look into activities happening in our seas.
“I want to thank you for your visit and as well congratulate the Chief of Naval Staff on his appointment. I know that you all will continue to do well to secure our maritime domain.
“I have promised Deltans that we will do more to improve peace and security with our M.O.R.E Agenda and I know that with the effort of the Navy and other security agencies, Delta State will continue to be peaceful, which will in turn attract more investments into our State,” Governor Oborevwori stated.
In a related development, the State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme has said that the issue of security is a top priority to this present administration.
He stated this when the Delta State Commandant and top personnel of the Nigerian Security And Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC came on a courtesy visit.
According to him, the Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration is aware that without security of life and property, no meaningful development will take place, asserting that, “security is a cardinal programme in the M.O.R.E. Agenda of our administration.
“We know the type of work you people do and nobody will want to joke with the issue of security; without security, no meaningful development will take place; no matter how wealthy, no matter how good that you are, if security breaks down, all that you will be concerned about is safety.
“With adequate security, of course success will be recorded in every sector of the economy, so, this administration is very keen in ensuring the safety of life and property of our people anywhere they are because, our mission is to ensure a stable and progressive polity.
“As it concerns your needs to enable you perform optimally, we are aware that though, you are an agency of the Federal Government, as a government, we know that this is where you operate and we are the people living here, so, we will encourage you to bring out your best.”
Earlier, the State Commandant of NSCDC, Corps Commandant Suleiman Jimoh appealed to the state government to support the Corps with operational vehicles and other logistics to enable it function optimally.
Ngozi Okolie was properly nominated, says National leadership of LP … Elumelu’s pyrrhic victory will fall at the appeal
By Austin Ogwuda
THE leadership of the Labour Party, LP says the Member representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Rt Hon Ngozi Okolie was a properly sponsored candidate of the Party in contesting the last governorship election in Delta State, which he won overwhelmingly, beating his closest rivalry, Ndudi Elumelu with landslide.
National Publicity Secretary of the Party, Obiora Ifoh in a press statement released in Abuja vowed that the Party stands solidly behind its member, Rt Hon Ngozi Okolie.
He said “we will appeal the judgment. The petitioner (Ndudi Elumelu) merely obtained a pyrrhic victory that will fall at the appeal”.
The Labour Party leadership also noted with disgust that the Asaba Tribunal judgment in the case between Ndudi Elumelu and Ngozi Okolie was inconsistent with the law and the plethora of Supreme Court judgments regarding the the issue of membership and primary elections which are purely internal matters of political parties not subject to contestation by another political party and beyond the jurisdiction of the court.
Below is the full text of the Press Statement
“The National leadership of the Labour Party is shocked over Monday’s judgment by the National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Asaba, Delta State, where it sacked Labour Party’s Ngozi Okolie who is representing Aniocha/Oshimili Constituency in the House of Representatives.
The court ruled that Hon. Okolie was not a member of the Labour Party by the date of the primary election, and thus, he was not properly sponsored by the party.
We note that the judgment is clearly inconsistent with the position of the law already settled even by superior courts including the Supreme Court. The issue of nomination of candidates as well as membership are internal affairs of the party beyond the jurisdiction of courts. It is only a political party that can determine who its members are and who their flag bearer for an election should be.
The courts have in a plethora of cases held that the court has no jurisdiction to intervene in the internal affairs of a political party.
In the case of ARDO & ANOR v. NYAKO & ORS (2013) LPELR-CA/YL/15/2012 (CONSOLIDATED), the court of appeal, per Per DENTON-WEST, J.C.A., held that; “However it is a notorious principle of law that courts have no right whatsoever to descend into the internal affairs of political parties as to choose their candidates for them” or decide the status of their membership.
This position is more vividly expounded in the case of AGI v. PDP & ORS (2016) LPELR-SC.256/2016, where the Supreme Court held that; “… a party is supreme over its own affairs……A party is like a club. A voluntary association. It has its rules, regulations, guidelines, and Constitution…”
Part of the rules and guidelines of the Labour Party is to accord membership to any Nigerian whoso desire, and including by way of a waiver. If you look at our guidelines, it is very clear, that we can grant a waiver to people who are joining us during the election, and Labour Party in observance of its own relevant rules and guidelines discharged its obligations by granting a waiver to Hon. Ngozi Okolie. So, It is our inalienable right under our own rules and we activated it to the fullest. The electoral law also gave us the power to field candidates and further gave us the power to equally substitute candidates.
The decision of the tribunal is against clearly established jurisprudence. Where the leadership (NWC/NEC) of a party regards a person as a member of the party eligible to contest the primaries, no member of the party can complain against such a decision. Such an issue is within the the domestic and internal affairs of the party over which the courts have no jurisdiction as such is not justiciable.
An action based on determination of membership of a political party is not justiciable. Therefore the judgement by the tribunal is not acceptable to us and it is also not the final. The petitioner obtained a mere phyric victory that will fall flat on appeal. We are putting our documents together and we are going ahead to appeal the judgment immediately.
It is very clear that powerful people in Delta state are involved in the matter and obviously we expect some of these arm-twisting and political bravado, but ultimately, we believe that judgment will be served.
We have also noted the tension mounting in the camps of the Labour Party and Obidient families across the nation and beyond on the possible spill-over of the judgment in Delta state. We, therefore call on you to keep calm as we will ensure that none of our mandates is snatched away. Let me assure you that every case has its own circumstances and its own merit and all cases are treated on their merits and their special circumstances.
Obviously, this will not have any effect on any other election petition or the election generally. But we insist that the courts should be consistent in what they say because that will make the law to be very certain and decisive. I am very sure that the Delta state judgment against our representative in the National Assembly will be upturned at the end of the day.
SIGNED:
Obiora Ifoh
National Publicity Secretary
Labour Party
25-97-2023.
Onyeme breaks silence, says, I didn’t forge, seeks stiffer penalty against telling lies under Oath
By Austin Ogwuda
DEPUTY Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme has called for the strengthening of the law to enable prosecution of those who tell lies under oath in the law courts.
Onyeme was speaking for the first time since a former Minister, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi took him up alleging that he (Onyeme) was dismissed from the National Open University of Nigeria as a
Bursar because of purported forgery.
He spoke Tuesday, when the management of the Nigeria Television Authority, NTA Channel 11, Asaba, paid him a courtesy visit at Government House, Asaba.
His words: “recently, there is information that the Deputy governor was dismissed from the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN, for forgery; why some of us refused to comment on the issue is because, it is very laughable, forgery of what?
“Why would somebody like me forge? What am I forging? Is it the certificate or is it financial document? What did I forge? And this institutions are still there, functioning, all the principal officers are still there for ease of verification.
“How can a respected Nigerian come out and begin to say things that are not true? Is it because we don’t have solutions for people who go to the public to tell lies under oath?
” I don’t think our laws are strong enough against some of these things, if not people will not just come out and say things that are not true; such persons ought to be prosecuted.
“In your imagination, you raised allegation against a person, create a panel to try the person, sat as the Chairman of the panel – there was no witness; you found the person guilty, got the person dismissed from service; all in your imagination without any other person corroborating what you are saying and you come to the court of law and under oath, you say such things and claim that they are true.
“So, I am happy that the General Manager, NTA Channel 11, at least know a little bit about my background and I am very sure that when you get any story, you verify you facts, even without response from us, please tell the world the truth because, there is no element, no sense in some of these stories; it is only in politics that we see people coming out to say things that has never happened anywhere.
“The Nigerian Television Authority NTA, have been collaborating and partnering with the Delta State Government for a very long time; you are not new and strange to us; we know you to be very good partners of government; let me appreciate you for deeming it fit to come to congratulate us on our election victory and pledge to continue with the partnership.
“In the course of your address, you also talked a little bit about my humble self, my sojourn in the North and South East, Calabar and the rest, I want to thank you for doing a very good research on me”, the deputy governor stated.
The Deputy Governor, used the occasion to urge the media to always protect the truth, asserting, “it is very good to get the necessary facts before publishing or going on air, because, if you know so much about what you are giving to the public, then, I am sure you will be in a good position to respond when you get some information that are very untrue; so, thank you for doing what you do and you should continue to protect the innocent and do not allow bad elements of our society to create a picture to deceive the public.
“If you give the public wrong information as a media organization, before you know it, the general public will begin to accept it as truth, so, your organization and other media partners should always look at these stories and ensure that truth prevails.”
Earlier, the General Manager, NTA, Channel 11, Phil Obanor, had in her speech, observed that, “the Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration is loaded with brains, people who are determined to make the state better.”
While pledging the effective coverage of activities of the government of Delta State, Obanor heaped accolades on the Deputy Governor, reeling out his credentials, asserting, “Your Excellency, we have benefitted immensely from your media friendly disposition”.
Gbagi challenges Delta deputy governor, Onyeme to tell the world when, how, why he left Open University
By Austin Ogwuda
GOVERNORSHIP candidate of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi has challenged the Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme to prove his innocence that he was not dismissed from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) over alleged forgery offence.
He stated this while reacting to Mr. Fidelis Egugbo defence to the effect that Onyeme was not dismissed but disengaged from that employment on a clean slate.
Gbagi in a press statement through his Chief Press Secretary, Kenneth Orusi which was made a available to The Town Hall Media also faulted Egugbo as not a competent authority to dismiss such weighty allegations with a wave of hand.
The statement reads in part, “the report with the headline: “Delta Guber: Egugbo Punctures Lies Of Gbagi”, is very laughable, as it did not come to us by surprise.
“But what is amusing is that, Egugbo, who ordinarily is not an authority could claim to dismiss what lawyers to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), Monday Onyeme and Sheriff Oborevwori who are the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Respondents, fruitlessly tried to stop but failed woefully.
“Documents and other admissible evidence have been tendered and admitted at the tribunal by the three-man Justices, headed by Justice H.C Ahuchaogu.
“That Gbagi was the Minister of State for Education while Onyeme served as Bursar to NOUN at a point in his life as a civil servant.
“Gbagi, a renowned Criminologist, has records of integrity, impeccable character and unbeatable achievements with a midas touch, would not stoop so low to the likes of Onyeme, to cause disaffection and incite Deltans against anybody as the administration of Sheriff Oborevwori, was already built on faulty foundation of multiple forgeries which is before the tribunal.
“It should be noted that at the time Gbagi chaired the Panel of Enquiry, which dismissed Onyeme, Gbagi, has no plans of contesting the governorship election in the State at a time like this.
“Gbagi had told the tribunal that the election that produced Oborevwori and Onyeme was marred with irregularities, electoral malpractices and non-compliance to the electoral Act 202, for which he has approached the tribunal for justice, a move that falls within his fundamental rights.
“It is again, laughable that a man dismissed from the services of NOUN, for forgery, could be described to have “unblemished record”, it is laughable indeed.
“To put the records straight, within the nine years, 2006 and 2015, Onyeme, worked at NOUN, he was under Gbagi, at the time he was Minister of State for Education which made it possible for the Panel he chaired to investigate and found Onyeme, wanting of forgery which led to his dismissal.
“Egugbo’s writeup, shows that he didn’t do any fact-check to truly know the antecedents of the largest private investor in the State.
“Egugbo, a journalist who worked under the State owned print media, The Pointer and was subsequently appointed Special Adviser, was expected to have carried out a thorough investigation on the unbroken records of Gbagi but hurriedly went to press with wishy-washy report.
“At this juncture, may I bring my friend and colleague to speed, it is on record that during his time as education minister, Gbagi created 13 Universities, including Federal University of Lafia and Federal University of Petroleum (FUPRE) here in Delta State.
“Others include but not limited to eight Federal Government Colleges,16 Colleges of Education and 14 Polytechnic.
“Gbagi rebuilt and equipped the ICT center in Urhobo College, donated N10 million to Government College, Ughelli and as minister of state for Education, rebuilt Federal Government College, Warri.
“Though, these schools are not in Olorogun Gbagi’s schedule, he showed commitment aimed at ensuring that they exist and function.
“He fought against the relocation of PTI from Warri to Kaduna State.
“Recall that there is a gentle minister for Petroleum called Rilwanu Lukman, said the College that was related to petroleum should be relocated
“Thirty-two days after Gbagi became a minister, he founded FUPRE, Federal University of Petroleum Resources in Ugbomro.
“Obasanjo gave them N1 billion to them to go and setup a College because they have created the state but there were no document. That was why Rilwanu Lukman was making that statement to say they should relocate the school.
“But thank God, 32 days later Gbagi took a memo to council, where he got approval for the Petroleum University to be established.
“Speaking on how memos are tagged at the Federal Executive Council, Gbagi said: “If you check the record that created that university, you will not see Kenneth Gbagi, as the owner or person who founded the University including the other 12. In memo to council, you do not put your full names but what you will see there is KOG”, he explained.
“These records since he left office as Minister of State for Education, no minister appointed into the ministry have broken Gbagi’s records till date.
“It would be recall that Gbagi had told the tribunal that Onyeme, was dismissed after a Panel of Enquiry set up by him found Onyeme wanting of ‘forgery’.
“Gbagi, a sole witness and Governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the March 18th governorship election in the State told the tribunal during cross examination.
“Onyeme, is the 4th Respondent in Gbagi’s petition before the three-man Justices presided over by Justice H C. Ahuchaogu at the loo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Asaba, the State capital.
“Gbagi, a renowned Criminologist, who was cross examined by the counsels to the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Respondents, told the tribunal that as a former minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he presided over the Panel that dismissed Onyeme”, the statement added.
Egugbo had earlier while defending Onyeme said,
“I am confident that no Deltan will take the spurious, unfounded allegation of Mr Kenneth Gbagi serious, because, we are all aware about his antecedents. It is unfortunate that instead of accepting defeat as expected of a true democrat, he is in the tribunal trying to cause disaffection among the people.
“The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, has an unblemished record as a civil servant before he was called upon to take political appointment.
“Without going back memory lane to list places that Sir Onyeme has excellently rendered service to humanity, we are all aware that as at 2015, Mr Gbagi was not the Minister of State and it was the year, 2015 that Sir Onyeme, took leave of absence from the NOUN to enable him effectively take charge of the affairs of the Delta State Internal Revenue Service, DSIR, as its Executive Chairman.
“The immediate past Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, believes in excellence and his administration was able to woo Sir Onyeme, a tax expert from the NOUN to head the DSIRS.
”As the Deputy Governor of Delta State, members of the National Open University of Nigeria Alumni Association, NOUNAA, Delta State Chapter, few days ago, paid a congratulatory visit on Sir Onyeme at his office at Government House, Asaba.. That visit clearly attest to how the Deputy Governor is valued at the NOUN.
“Following his emergence as the running mate to Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori in 2022, it became clear, that his career at the NOUN had ended and as a man who believes in due process, Sir Onyeme who resigned his appointment at DSIR, also, resigned as the Bursar of the NOUN.
“His resignation put to an end, a robust nine years as Bursar of NOUN, a position that he put his expertise to use as he was never queried nor faced any panel whatsoever within the period. It was not surprising as Gbagi, was also, the only witness in his case before the tribunal.
“It is unfortunate that what Gbagi went to the tribunal with was a ‘trophy,’ that he personally raised criminal issues against the Deputy Governor, set up a panel which he was the Chairman, tried him, found him guilty and dismissed him, without having in mind that Nigerians are aware that he left office as a Minister for State years before Sir Onyeme voluntarily retired from NOUN.
3 Suspected Bandits involved in the killing of police officers meet Waterloo
By Austin Ogwuda
Spokesman of the Delta State Police command, Bright Edafe, DSP said that the armed gang which snuffed life out of
two police operatives attached to Dragon patrol team have met their Waterloo.
Bright in a press statement said that “in reponse to the attack on Police operatives attached to Dragon Patrol team on 23/7/2023, at about 1140hours while on stop and search duty at Oleh roundabout by suspected bandits, who shot and killed two operatives and set the patrol vehicle ablaze, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Wale Abass, detailed a combined team of Policemen attached to Ozoro Area command, Dragon patrol to go after the attackers.
“With the support of troops from the Nigerian Army, 63 Brigade and members of the local vigilante the men swung into action during the operation, the combined team engaged the hoodlums in a serious gun duel, subdued the hoodlums who fled into the bush having been inflicted gunshot injuries.
” The team”, the statement went on, “traced their blood to a river where one AK-47 rifle was recovered on the same date of the incident.
The response team sustained the tempo and continued the operation on 24/7/2023.
Acting on credible intelligence, they stormed Erewa community bush in Isoko North LGA, where they engaged the remnant of the bandits in serious gun duel, neutralized one of them, arrested two others, recovered two more AK-47 rifles, one Assault rifle, four magazines and twelve 7.62 AK-47 ammunition.
“Effort is still on to track down other members of the syndicate.
The Commissioner of Police Delta State, CP Wale Abass assures residents that the Command will not relent in the fight against crime and criminality while counting on the support from well-meaning Deltans in ensuring that the State is safe for all”, the statement added.
Nobody can steal the mandate of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal constituency from the back door, Ngozi Okolie vows
By Austin Ogwuda
MEMBER representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal constituency in the National Assembly, Rt. Hon Ngozi Okolie said “my lawyers have briefed me about the judgment of the Tribunal earlier today. I plead with all my supporters and sympathizers to remain calm and keep hope alive.
“Ngozi Okolie is not the person on trial, but our democracy and judiciary is on trial. Thank God there is an opening for appeal and afterwards God is the final Judge. I have briefed my Lawyers to do the needful.
NOBODY will take the mandate of the Aniocha/Oshimili people from the back door. We shall overcome” said Ngozi Okolie in a statement made available to newsmen yesterday.
The National Assembly Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Asaba, delivering judgment yesterday, nullified the election of Ngozi Okolie of the Labour Party as a member representing the Aniocha/Oshimili Constituency at the House of Representatives.
The tribunal held that the Labour Party did not duly sponsor Okolie as he was not a party member as of May 28, 2022, when the primary was held and went ahead to declare Ndudi Elumelu, who was the first runner up, as the winner of the election thus allowing Ndudi Elumelu’s petition challenging the victory of the Labour Party candidate to succeed.
Lead counsel to Ngozi Okolie, Chike Onyemenam (SAN) had in the final address to the tribunal submitted that the tribunal should dismiss the petition on the ground that “the petitioners ( Hon. Ndudi Elumelu and PDP) abandoned their claims that Honourable Ngozi Okolie of the Labour Party (LP) won the election into the Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency by a landslide victory by defeating Honourable Ndudi Elumelu with more than Twenty Thousand Votes.
“That petitioners also abandoned their claims that the election was rigged or was invalid and that the tribunal should declare the election null and void and order INEC to conduct a fresh Election for Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency.”
Onyemenam prayed the tribunal to also dismiss the petition because “the only ground remaining in the petition is the claim by the petitioners that Hon. Ngozi Okolie was not qualified to contest the election for several reasons”.
Onyemenam further submitted that since none of the three witnesses called by the petitioners adopted a deposition or gave any oral evidence to say that Hon. Ngozi Okolie was not qualified to contest the election for any reason, the petition is deemed in law to have been abandoned.
“As the Supreme Court has decided that where a Petitioner fails to field a witness to adopt his Deposition or fails to lead oral evidence in respect of the petitioner’s claims, the Petitioner is dead and cannot be revived by looking for evidence from the opponents(defendants) to revive a dead petition.
Also cited was the Supreme Court decisions which recently held that “the Tribunal is also not permitted by Law to start inspecting the INEC Documents and Reports tendered by the Petitioners’ Counsel from the Bar and by the INEC Witness on Subpoena without any evidence to support or link the Documents and Reports to any part of the Petition; so as to discover violations inside the Documents, because the Supreme Court has decided that such Documents dumped on a Tribunal without Oral evidence are worthless Documents.
Onyemenam, in addition cited “the Supreme Court Judgments which established that PDP and its Candidate do not have the Locus Standi or right to complain that Labour Party and its Candidate did not hold Primary Election for which the Petitioners equally did not lead any Oral evidence in respect of, save to tender Reports and Exhbits not linked to any Oral evidence or any part of the Petition and urged the Honourable Tribunal to dismiss the Petition for failure of the Petitioners to lead any evidence, let alone, credible evidence, to make out a prima facie case against Honourable Ngozi Okolie and Labour Party”.
Delta deputy governor Onyeme was dismissed for forgery, Gbagi tells Tribunal
By Austin Ogwuda
Delta deputy governor Onyeme was dismissed for forgery, Gbagi tells Tribunal
….. Is cock and bull story – Fidelis Egugbo
FORMER Minister of State for Education, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi who was a governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the March 18th governorship election in Delta State.
Gbagi told the Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Asaba that the State deputy governor Sir Monday Onyeme was not qualified to stand election because he was dismissed as a civil servant over alleged forgery.
But in a sharp reaction an Asaba-based journalist, rose to the defence of the embattled deputy governor, puncturing his claim at the Tribunal as mere “cock and bull” story that cannot be substantiated.
Gbagi in his petition before the three-man Tribunal presided over by Justice H C. Ahuchaogu claimed that Monday Onyeme who is the 4th Respondent was sacked by the National Open University as a Bursar.
Under cross examination, Gbagi stated: “I was a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the 4th Respondent, was my staff at best.
“I was never a staff of the registry, the 4th Respondent was a staff under me.
“I can tell that for forgery and records that are being kept, I presided over the Panel as the minister of the federal Republic of Nigeria, in his dismissal.
“I constituted the panel. The 4th Respondent appeared before my panel.
“The 4th Respondent has several incursions into our lives as a people.
“After he left the National Open University, he came here as a tax collector.
“Apart from the dismissal, there is an administrative Enquiry that enquired into his finances and the dismissal, is part of it.
“We terminated his engagement, the reason for him to have abruptly left the University services”.
“The 4th Respondent (Monday Onyeme) failed to disclose the fact of his dismissal in his Affidavit Form EC9 deposed to on 29th day of July 2022”.
…… Egugbo punctures Gbagi’s claim
However, an Asaba, Delta State-based Journalist, Comrade Fidelis Egugbo said he was dismissing the lies by the gubernatorial candidate of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, purporting that the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, was dismissed from the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN.
Egugbo stated that though, the case for the 2023 gubernatorial election was before the Tribunal, Gbagi could have made the allegation to cause disaffection and possibly, incite Deltans against the administration of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
His words, “I am confident that no Deltan will take the spurious, unfounded allegation of Mr Kenneth Gbagi serious, because, we are all aware about his antecedents.
It is unfortunate that instead of accepting defeat as expected of a true democrat, he is in the tribunal trying to cause disaffection among the people.
“The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, has an unblemished record as a civil servant before he was called upon to take political appointment.
“Without going back memory lane to list places that Sir Onyeme has excellently rendered service to humanity, we are all aware that as at 2015, Mr Gbagi was not the Minister of State and it was the year, 2015 that Sir Onyeme, took leave of absence from the NOUN to enable him effectively take charge of the affairs of the Delta State Internal Revenue Service, DSIR, as its Executive Chairman.
“The immediate past Governor of Delta State, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, believes in excellence and his administration was able to woo Sir Onyeme, a tax expert from the NOUN to head the DSIRS.
“Gbagi alleged that as a Minister of State for Education, he set up a panel to investigate Sir Onyeme and also, sat on the panel as its Chairman and went further to recommend the dismissal of Sir Onyeme as a Bursar; and failed to institute legal actions against Sir Onyeme for forgery. Such a situation can only be imagined as Sir Onyeme took leave of absence years after Gbagi was dropped as Minister of State for Education.
“Someone described his allegation as ‘cock and bull story’ as Nigerians are all aware that Sir Onyeme after his appointment, applied for and was granted leave of absence in 2015 when he answered the call to serve Deltans as the Chairman, DSIR, a position he again, relinquished voluntarily when he was chosen as the running mate to Rt. Hon. Oborevwori in 2022.
“As the Deputy Governor of Delta State”, the statement went on, “members of the National Open University of Nigeria Alumni Association, NOUNAA, Delta State Chapter, few days ago, paid a congratulatory visit on Sir Onyeme at his office at Government House, Asaba. That visit clearly attest to how the Deputy Governor is valued at the NOUN.
“Following his emergence as the running mate to Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori in 2022, it became clear, that his career at the NOUN had ended and as a man who believes in due process, Sir Onyeme who resigned his appointment at DSIR, also, resigned as the Bursar of the NOUN.
“His resignation put to an end, a robust nine years as Bursar of NOUN, a position that he put his expertise to use as he was never queried nor faced any panel whatsoever within the period. It was not surprising as Gbagi, was also, the only witness in his case before the tribunal.
“It is unfortunate that what Gbagi went to the tribunal with was a ‘trophy,’ that he personally raised criminal issues against the Deputy Governor, set up a panel which he was the Chairman, tried him, found him guilty and dismissed him, without having in mind that Nigerians are aware that he left office as a Minister for State years before Sir Onyeme voluntarily retired from NOUN.
“We can recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and his running mate, Sir Monday Onyeme as the winners of the 18 March governorship election in Delta State.
“The State INEC Collation Officer, Onuwari Georgewill, a Professor and Vice-Chancellor, University of Port Harcourt, said Oborevwori polled a total of 360,234 votes to defeat his closest opponent, Ovie Omo-Agege of the All Progressive Party (APC) who scored 240,229 votes.
“Georgewill said Kennedy Pela of the Labour Party came third with 48,027 votes, while Great Ogboru of the All Progressive Grand Alliance came fourth with 11,021 votes, so, discerning Deltans are wondering what Gbagi is doing in the tribunal but it is his constitutional right to do so”, Egugbo added.
Woman protests assault by Delta police officers over civil case
By our Reporter
Madam Martha Yaye Onokpasa has cried out over alleged invasion of her home by police officers at midnight, brandishing guns menacingly at her and the children as if they were criminals.
She is therefore demanding for justice following the violation of their human rights as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.
Narrating her ordeal with The Town Hall Media, madam Onokpasa who said she was yet to overcome the traumatic incident said, “we were assaulted by the police men who came for arrest.
They broke the back door at the wee hour of the day, my children and my younger brother were all molested and beaten with stick including my daughter.
“They tore her clothes while her 12 year old son was beaten with a stick and eventually exploited N260,000 from us.
“Sapele Area Command sent their men to invade our family house brutally and unprofessionally took us into custody without warrant. We were only released that day after coughing out N260,000.
“I am not a criminal and neither myself nor my family broke any law. We have been most heinously harassed by the police that is supposed to be our friend. I demand justice”, she lamented.
Continuing the embittered woman said “it was early in the morning on the 22nd day of July, we were still on bed when they heard loud noise of people forcefully breaking their doors to get into the house, some were at the frontage and some at the backyard threatening.
“We were so afraid thinking they were armed robbers or kidnappers. We saw that they were hefty police men armed with guns and sticks from the Sapele Area Command of the Nigerian Police. They claimed they are police from area command, that there is a petition.
“While I was being interrogated by one, my children and my younger brother were being molested and beaten with sticks. They assaulted my daughter and tore her clothes and my 12 year old son was beaten with a stick. They were all frightened with the state of terror unleashed on them.
” l told the police that it would have been better that they introduced themselves as the police instead of spoiling our properties, breaking our doors and molesting my family, mostly my young children, I pleaded with them to allow me dress properly cause I was still on my nightwear and I followed them.
“As I came out after dressing up properly, my brothers were handcuffed and being beaten with heavy sticks. They forced us inside a car and drove us to Area Command in Sapele. On getting there, they said one Mrs Marian Eke Shaibu wrote petition against one Kingsley and his group that they broke her blocks”.
She stated that the basis upon the petition can’t hold water given the fact there is already a case in court over a land dispute which she complained about and there is a subsisting court injunction to that effect.
In addition she said that “the case was also reported to the police at Zone 5 Headquarters, Benin City due to the Amua-Idiemo people that encroached on the said land, who also fought us, broke our beacons, injured us an the land is a disputed land already in court, that both injunction and restriction has been put on the land that no agent or worker should be seen on the land”.
Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, (PPRO), Bright Edafe, a Deputy Superintendent of Police DSP was not readily available with his reaction as at the time of this report.
My record as Speaker remains unbroken in the entire country, says Governor Oborovwori
By Austin Ogwuda,
….. tips his successor how to survive
GOVERNOR Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State says his record during his tenure as a Speaker at the Delta State House of Assembly remains to be broken by any House of Assembly in the country.
He stated this, Sunday, while speaking at a Thanksgiving service in honour of the current Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor held at The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Effurun, Uvwie local government area of the State.
The Governor used the opportunity to offer useful tips to Guwor, who succeeded him on how to survive despite pressures
According to him, “for you to survive as Speaker, as a leader, you must be humble, transparent and accountable and it is on record that I paid N530 million into the treasury and I also left money in the coffers of the State House of Assembly.
“There is no House of Assembly in the Country that has done what I did and it is my prayer that you succeed and perform better than I did.
“I survived six years as Speaker because I had a good Governor who listens and I urge you to always do the right thing despite pressures”.
“As Governor”, he went on, “I am committed to the welfare of the legislature and we will work together to make life more meaningful for our people”.
The Governor said he was delighted to join the Speaker and his family in thanking God for his elevation as number one lawmaker in the State.
He said God is always pleased when men gave thanks to Him and admonished the Speaker to hold on to God in his private and public life.
Speaking on flooding in Warri and environs, Governor Oborevwori said his administration would demolish all structures built along waterways and warned against dumping of refuse on drainages to give way for free flow of flood water in the area.
His words: ” few days ago, I was sent a viral video on the flooded Airport Road in Warri which of course was caused by our people because they have built structures along waterways.
“They have also blocked drainage channels with refuse but I can assure you that drainages in Warri will be taken care of and flood will no longer disturb our people when we are through.
“We will rebuild infrastructures in Warri with good roads, flyovers, drainages and street lights and we shall restore the lost glory of the oil city”.
Earlier in his remark, Speaker Guwor thanked his guests for honouring his invitation and expressed gratitude to God for elevating him to number one lawmaker in the State.
In his message, Pastor in charge of RCCG, Region 23, Pastor Charles Obasa said leaders must endeavour to live a life of purpose, motive and vision to make impact in the lives of the people they are leading. He prayed for the wisdom, knowledge and understanding of God upon leaders in Delta and the Country.
