Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike says his team is more interested in a better Nigeria, and they are consulting widely with those who mean well for the country.
Governor Wike spoke when he interacted with journalists at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa in Ikwerre Local Government Area, shortly on arrival from London on Friday.
In the company of the Rivers State governor were the governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom and Abia State governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu.
Governor Wike, who confirmed their meetings with Peoples Democratic Party, presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar; All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi and former president of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo in London, explained that topmost on the agenda is how to make Nigeria better than what is it currently.
The Rivers State governor noted that all is not well with Nigeria and they are seeking remedies that will restore enduring hope in Nigeria.
“I can confirm that this is the first time as a team that we are meeting with presidential candidates. We met with the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC and we met with our leader, former president of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo.
“We met the presidential candidate of Labour Party. We also met with our presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar. For whatever it’s worth, consultation is ongoing.
“Whatever we are talking about, is for the interest of Nigeria and Nigerians. It is not parochial and tied to one person or group of persons. We believe that with what is going on, it will be for the interest of Nigerians at the end of the day.”
Governor Wike decried the situation where standard, training and competence have always been traded for mediocrity.
The governor said leadership should not be about one individual and the interest of his family, but about the collective interest of everybody.
“Consultation is still ongoing. Never mind some people who do not believe in the existence of this country.
“Leadership is not about you and your family. Leadership is about everybody.
It’s unfortunate that we are in a country now where a man finishes eight years as a governor and brings his own son as a governor too and as member of National Assembly.
“It’s only in this part of the world that you can see that, when we are talking about poverty everywhere. These are people who do not mean well for this Nigeria.”
Governor Wike also wondered why religion and ethnicity are used as the tenable identity to describe Nigerians when competence is required.
“The only identity they have in this country is religion and ethnicity, nothing more. It’s either, I’m a Christian or I’m a Moslem, I’m a Fulani or I’m an Igbo. Nigeria cannot move forward except they think it will be them. That’s where we are.
“We are in a country where someone with primary school certificate can be appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs. That tells you how bad this country has become.
“But with our consultation, all these will be a thing of the past. No amount of intimidation or blackmail will deter us. We are determined to right the wrong.”
In his response, the leader of the team and Benue State governor, Samuel Ortom noted that they have met with renown persons in the last few days because of their belief that Nigeria is in distress and required concerted effort to rescue it.
He stated that they had fruitful talks with those they had met and it was beyond partisan politics, because we’ll meaning Nigerians need to work together in ensuring that Nigeria survives.
“For us, we are looking at the larger picture. Nigeria today is in distress. It is about what can we do. No man or woman alone can get it right for our country.
“We are looking at how we can harness ideas and put ourselves together to ensure that we get out of the present challenge we are in Nigeria today.
“From top to bottom, consider what has happened from 2015 and where we are today. So, what we are doing is a concern that we have for our country, Nigeria.
“This is beyond partisan politics. We are looking on how we can come together and find a way of ensuring that Nigeria survives. Nigeria is on drip, Nigeria is on oxygen and it is about how can we get out of this.”
Governor Ortom stated that the three separate meetings they had within the week were worthwhile session for them.
According to him, they have individually also had earlier commitments in Europe even if consultations are still going on because nothing concrete has been decided.
“The consultation is going on and will continue to go on. We are still going to meet here. We are still going to meet some persons some other time and see how we can work to ensure that the project Nigeria works.”
On his part, Abia State governor, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, emphasised that they are on a mission and are determined to find a way of rescuing Nigeria.
He noted that they are mindful of what society to bequeath to the present generation, their children and grand children alike.
“And this is a country with great potential and we have to protect it well. We think that we need to engage across board.
“We are also looking at speaking with civil society organisations and those who have ideas, with Nigerians in the diaspora. All the resources available in this country has to come together at this time to see how best we can move Nigeria forward.”
PRESS RELEASE
IRELE OBASHIP: GOV AKEREDOLU CALLS FOR ARREST OF ADEMOLA IDOWU OLOWORIYIBI OVER IMPERSONATION
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has called for the arrest and prosecution of one Mr. Ademola Idowu Oloworiyibi for parading himself as the Olofun of Irele, in Irele Local Government Area Of the State.
In a letter addressed to the Commissioner of Police in the State and signed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Olugbenga Ale, the State Government noted that no person has been approved or appointed as the Olofun of Irele kingdom.
The Government described the activities of Oloworiyibi as overreaching and illegal, adding that it is capable of causing disaffection amongst the peace-loving people of the ancient town which consequences can be better imagined.
The letter reads:”Government has noted with deep concern, the activities of one Mr. Ademola Idowu Oloworiyibi, who has been parading himself as the Olofun of Irele kingdom, in Irele Local Government Area of Ondo State. This impostor has not only impersonated the Olofun of Irele kingdom, he has also arrogated to himself the powers to confer chieftaincy titles on unsuspecting beneficiaries and his lackeys/cohorts.
“The position of the State Government is that no person has been approved or appointed as the Olofun of Irele kingdom, hence the activities of Mr. Ademola Idowu Oloworiyibi are not only overreaching but illegal and capable of causing disaffection amongst the peace-loving people of the ancient town which consequences can be better imagined. It is in the light of the foregoing, amongst others, that the Ondo State Government is ordering the arrest and prosecution of Mr. Ademola Idowu Oloworiyibl.
“It is a known fact that the Ondo State Government, since the inception of our administration has maintained dignified neutrality in the selection of traditional rulers for towns and villages in the State and this is unarguably responsible for the peace the State is enjoying on chieftaincy matters.
“Consequently, the State Government will not fold it hands and watch any individual or group of Individuals disturb the peace of the State through needless and avoidable chieftaincy tussles. I attach hereto some photographs of Mr. Ademola Idowu Oloworiyibi and his activities.”
WHO ACTUALLY NEEDS WEAPON?
The news concerning the purported award of pipeline contracts to some individuals and private organisations by the Federal Government has been unsettling. More disquieting is the barely disguised hostility displayed against either the idea or the actual establishment of security outfits by some State Governments to fill the widening gaps in the scope of security coverage noticeable nationally.
The Federal Government, through the Office of the National Security Adviser, has been consistent in its refusal to accede to the request by some States in the Federation to strengthen the complementary initiatives adopted to protect lives and property. This is done in spite of the knowledge that the very issues which necessitated the creation of these outfits support providing adequate weaponry. All attempts to persuade the Federal Government to look, critically, into the current security architecture have been rebuffed despite the manifest fundamental defects engendered by over-centralisation.
It is, therefore, shocking to read that the Federal Government has maintained the award of the contract to “protect” the country’s pipeline from vandals to private organisations. This story, if true, leaves a sour taste in the mouth. The NSA will, obviously, not advise the President to approve the award of a contract of such magnitude if the operators have not displayed sufficient capacity to checkmate the criminal activities of equally powerful groups. Consequently, it is safe to conclude that the Federal Government has, impliedly, permitted non state actors to bear heavy assault weapons while denying same privilege to the States, the federating units.
The award of contract to private organisations to protect vandalisation of pipelines raise fundamental questions on the sincerity of the advisers of the Government on security issues. The open and seeming enthusiastic embrace of this oddity, despite the constant and consistent avowal of the readiness by the Security Agencies in particular the Navy to contain the pervasive and deepening crises of breaches and threats to lives and property, attracts the charge of insincerity bordering, deplorably, on dubiety. If the State Governments, which are keenly desirous of protecting their citizens, establish ancillary security outfits and there has been pronounced reluctance, if not outright refusal, to consider permitting them to bear arms for the sole purpose of defence, granting private individuals and or Organisations unfettered access to assault weapons suggests, curiously, deep-seated suspicion and distrust between the Federal Government and the presumed federating units.
The engagement of private organisations to handle serious security challenges reinforces the belief that the whole defence architecture in the country needs an urgent overhaul. The Federal Government cannot be seen to be playing the Ostrich in this regard.
ARAKUNRIN OLUWAROTIMI O. AKEREDOLU, SAN
GOVERNOR, ONDO STATE
ASIWAJU BAT TO BISHOP KUKAH @ 70
My lord Bishop your life has been one of devotion and duty to God and humanity As such, your life speaks of humility and compassion.
The influence and respect that is yours goes beyond the Catholic Church and even your position as the Bishop of Sokoto Diocese. You are a voice of conscience in and for all Nigeria.
For over four decades, your homilies as a cleric as well as your contributions as a public intellectual have enriched the national discourse and highlighted the role of morality in the public space. Seminal articles you have authored demonstrate your abiding concern for the poor and vulnerable. It is this concern that has led you to take national assignments such as being a member of the Human Rights Violation Investigation Commission (Oputa Panel), Chief Mediator, Shell-Ogoni Peace Initiative and currently as the Secretary of National Peace Committee.
This nation owes you more than a debt of gratitude. However, knowing the type of person you are, you will never ask for payment of that debt. You will simply continue to give more.
I join millions of Nigerians, family and friends to celebrate this milestone that is your 70th birthday.
I wish you well. May you continue to serve God and lead your flock to the best of your abilities. May you always be a voice of conscience and service in this land.
BOLA TINUBU
August 31, 2022
Press Statement
You Can’t Get 25% of Votes in Most States, PDP Mocks APC
…Says PDP’s Takeover of Buhari’s Campaign Office in Katsina Signals Collapse of APC.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) admonishes the failed All Progressives Congress (APC) not to bother to campaign in the 2023 general elections as the APC cannot secure the statutory 25% of votes in most States of the country.
The mammoth crowd that greets PDP’s rallies including the recent rallies in Kano and Katsina States are clear messages to the APC that they have been rejected by the people and have no foothold in the 2023 general elections.
The fact that Nigerians from all walks of life in Kano State, the political, commercial nerve center of the North and national melting point, defied the rain in massive show of solidarity to the PDP and our Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, underscores their determination to break through all barriers and return the PDP to power in 2023.
The current mass exodus from the APC into the PDP as being witnessed in most States including President Muhammadu Buhari’s home State of Katsina highpoints the consensus by Nigerians that the APC has irredeemably failed and that the PDP remains the only vehicle to rescue and rebuild the country from misrule of the APC.
The takeover of President Buhari’s campaign office by the PDP in his home Katsina State following the defection of critical APC stakeholders in the State, signals the surrender of the APC and its structure to the PDP in President Buhari’s supposed strongholds.
Nigerians have seen through the lies and falsehood of the incompetent, rudderless, insensitive, divisive, bloodthirsty and terrorism-enabling APC that has brought nothing but misery, economic hardship, hatred, unprecedented disunity and bloodletting to our nation in the last seven years.
Nigerians have seen the APC in its true identity; a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV); a pirate ship of inchoate sailors and strange bed fellows clobbered together for remote personal gains, not for governance and public good.
This is more so as the APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (BAT); the national leader of the failed APC government is no match to PDP Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, who has established his capacity to lead our nation out of the wood where Asiwaju and his failed APC plunged her.
From all indications, under a credible, free, fair and transparent electoral process, the APC cannot secure the statutory 25% of votes in most States across the country.
Our Party therefore admonishes the APC not to bother to campaign in Kano, Katsina, other States of the north and of course in other geo-political zones of the country as Nigerians have already aligned with the PDP to return our nation to the path of unity, national cohesion and economic prosperity.
The PDP commends the former Governor of Kano State, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau and millions of other well-meaning Nigerians for their patriotism in rallying on the platform of the PDP to rescue our nation from the stranglehold of the vicious APC.
The PDP urges all Nigerians of goodwill not to be deterred but remain hopeful and join forces on the platform of the PDP to resist the shenanigans and manipulations of the APC ahead of the 2023 general elections.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESIDENT BUHARI PAYS TRIBUTE TO GORBACHEV, SAYS ‘‘HE WAS A COURAGEOUS REFORMER”
President Muhammadu Buhari has described the last leader of the former Soviet Union, Mr. Mikhail Gorbachev, as “a courageous reformer who will be remembered for years to come because of his immeasurable contributions to world peace and openness in his own once rigidly closed society.”
Reacting to the death of Gorbachev at 91 on Tuesday, President Buhari said “the late Gorbachev was a remarkable gentleman whose reformist agenda had fundamentally changed the Soviet society through his policy of Perestroika and Glasnost, both of which set the stage for economic and political transformation of his own country and that of others in the defunct Soviet Union.”
President Buhari explained that, “although Gorbachev’s political career was consumed by those reforms, history and posterity will be kind to him for placing the interests of the Soviet people above his own ambition.”
According to the Nigerian leader, “the impact of Gorbachev’s legacy was not limited to the former Soviet Union, but it also affected the wider world, such as his voluntary dissolution of the Warsaw Pact military alliance in pursuit of permanent peace in the world.”
President Buhari said “we cannot forget in a hurry how Gorbachev advocated for the destruction of nuclear weapons by both the former Soviet Union and the United States during his meeting with Ronald Reagan.”
The President added that, “although Gorbachev died without achieving his dream of a nuclear-free world, his genuine commitment to durable international peace and security would never be forgotten.”
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 31, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI EXTOLS VETERAN JOURNALIST, BISI AMAGADA AT 80
President Muhammadu Buhari celebrates with veteran journalist, Mrs Bisi Amagada, on her 80th birthday, August 31, 2022, rejoicing with the first female editor of The Observer newspaper, for a worthy and impactful life.
President Buhari joins family members, friends and relations to celebrate the journalist, who served as Board member of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) and New Nigeria Newspapers, bringing her wealth of experience in the newsroom to grow many media houses in the country.
The President notes the brilliance, clarity and accuracy that Amagada projects in her writings and administrative work, consistently placing interest of the country and citizens in right perspective, while drawing her inspiration from deep fear of God, and love for studying the Holy Bible.
As the veteran journalist, who is a Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, turns an octogenarian, President Buhari commends her courage in choosing a career in journalism, and following through the rigorous demands of travelling, thinking, writing and meeting deadlines.
The President prays for the wellbeing of Amagada and her family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 30, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES CATHOLIC BISHOP OF SOKOTO DIOCESE, REV. FATHER MATTHEW HASSAN KUKAH AT 70
President Muhammadu Buhari shares in the joy of the occasion with Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Rev. Father Matthew Hassan Kukah as he turns 70, August 31, 2022.
President Buhari joins the Catholic Church, friends and associates in celebrating with the priest on the milestone.
The President notes the contributions of the priest, teacher, scholar and writer to national discourse.
President Buhari prays that the Almighty God will grant Rev. Father Kukah longer life, good health and strength.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 30, 2022
WHY I BELIEVE IN NON-INTERFERENCE IN THE POLITICAL PROCESS, PRESIDENT BUHARI
President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja assured Nigerians that governing party, All Progressives Congress (APC), will continue to bequeath strong political institutions that reflect their choices, through non-interference in elections, citing outcome of polls in Ekiti, Anambra and Osun States as indicators.
The President, who received members of Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) led by Chairman and Governor of Kebbi State, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, at the State House, noted that non-interference in elections gives credence to the political process, ensures participation and inclusiveness, and shows that the governing party respects the electorate.
President Buhari said APC, under his leadership, will continue to respect Nigerians by ensuring that their votes count and the people’s voice matter in choosing political leaders at different levels.
“I want Nigerians to know that we respect them, and for us to show that we will allow them to vote who they want.
“We all witnessed what happened in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun States. What happened in those states gives me a lot of hope that we are succeeding.’’
For the 2023 elections, President Buhari said the government will also ensure that Nigerians don’t get intimidated, or humiliated by those in positions, or the more privileged.
“We will not allow anyone to use personal resources or their influence to intimidate other Nigerians. We will not allow intimidations materially, morally or physically. This is the kind of leadership that can emerge and consolidate our nation.
“In six months, Nigerians will appreciate the government of APC that we are sincere and we respect them,’’ he added.
President Buhari urged the party’s political leaders to intensity efforts in “thinking, meeting and strategizing for the 2023 elections.’’
In his remarks, the Chairman of the PGF thanked the President for his leadership, guided by wisdom and foresight, affirming that the Nigerian economy had been growing, in spite of challenges.
“We want to congratulate you on the positive trajectory of the economy, with the 3.5 per cent growth in the second quarter, up from 3.1 per cent of the first quarter of this year. Infrastructure projects are ongoing in parts of the country, and the social intervention programme is expanding,’’ Bagudu stated.
The governor said the growth trajectory had defied initial predictions of some multilateral institutions, affirming that the World Bank and others had acknowledged the resilience of the economy, and reviewed their positions.
“Your Excellency, as we speak, there is drought in Europe and China. The Ukraine-Russia war is taking a toll on economies. In the UK, there is rationing of electricity, and energy shortages in China.
“While other countries are banning food export, we are preparing for more production, in spite of floods in places like Jigawa State. We note your instruction for the release of 40,000 tonnes of grains.
“We also note efforts on improving security and measures to cut oil theft,’’ he said.
The PGF Chairman told the President that some APC governors were contesting elections for second term in 2023 with impressive records in their first term.
“We note the pronouncement of ASUU. We recall the appeal of the President to ASUU while we were visiting Daura that they should consider the future of students.
We will not dwell on that now. We are ready to accept any negotiations for resolution,’’ Bagudu added.
The Kebbi State Governor commended Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha and Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, for their steadfastness and stewardship.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 30, 2022
EXPLAINING WHY, ‘OPERATION SHOW NO MERCY’ IS SUCCEEDING!
Some Nigerians are wondering why the tables have turned and why the Nigerian Military is recording its current victories against Bandits and Terrorists. To explain these victories one will have to go back to an important meeting that took place this month of August, when the plan and the strategy of, ‘OPERATION SHOW NO MERCY’ was hatched and coined.
On August the 4th 2022 the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) launched an all out military offensive codenamed ‘OPERATION SHOW NO MERCY’. This military operation was aimed at the mindless marauding bandits and terrorists who have been – kidnapping, robbing, raping and killing Nigerians.
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao, launched the operation with NAF operational commanders in the various theatres of operation. During the meeting he charged the senior air troops to ensure that they employ maximum firepower against the terrorists. He said launching an offensive operation against the adversaries would deny the terrorists freedom of movement, adding that it would also boost the confidence of the populace and ensure a peaceful country. He explained that the security environment remained fluid and uncertain with terrorists moving between the northeast, northwest and north central. He, therefore, noted the need to continually modify NAF’s air power strategies in order to stay ahead of the asymmetric and unconventional nature of terrorists’ activities.
His own words, “We have a responsibility to secure our nation and give our citizens a sense of hope, trust and belonging. Therefore, we must ensure that we stay ahead of the enemy and envisage his next line of action. I, therefore, charge you to SHOW NO MERCY against any terrorist and their accomplices while also denying them the freedom of movement and ease to cause mayhem against innocent Nigerians,”.
The Operation:
The current operation is intelligence driven and its primary focus is to go after Terrorists, Bandits and most importantly their Warlords through reconnaissance.
Reconnaissance is a mission to obtain information by visual observation or other detection methods, about the activities and resources of an enemy or potential enemy. Aerial reconnaissance which the Nigerian forces have successfully used in, ‘OPERATION SHOW NO MERCY, is reconnaissance carried out by aircraft and other aerial surveillance vehicles. The purpose is to survey and map out particular terrains, for offensive strikes such as observing tangible – structures, weapons, vehicular movements, human movements and enemy forces.
Through these surveillance vehicles the Nigerian military have been able to identify bandit warlords and their hideouts. The next stage is to send in the Tucano Super Fighter Jets to neutralise enemy forces. In just four (4) week, four notorious warlords have been neutralised.
However bombing the terrorists from the air is only half of the plan. The next plan of the strategy is to send in the infantry, the foot soldiers to neutralise the fleeing terrorists and secure the territory. And that is exactly what the military is doing in Yobe and Kaduna States in these photographs just posted. What you see is the mopping up exercise. The fleeing bandits are in complete disarray. Many are trying to cross the border into the Lake Chad Basin but fortunately there is no hiding place in that region because the Tucano Super Fighter Jets have been bombarding the Tunbun area of the Lake Chad Basin where ISWAP have tried to setup its permanent headquarters. Today that area is systematically being wiped out from the air. Please note, ‘OPERATION SHOW NO MERCY’ is the current Nigerian military airforce campaign in the North East, North West and North Central States of Nigeria.
Despite these series of recent successes this war is far from over and the Nigerian military is expecting reprisal and revenge attacks from the enemy. Our forces actually welcome such attacks because it will only expose the hideouts of a weakened enemy on its way out.
We understand that we are communicating with some incurable skeptics, those Nigerians especially on Social Media who have refused to acknowledge the tremendous effort this government has made and is making in combatting this insurgency. The current successes and victories of our military forces are undeniable. We therefore urge those skeptics not to play politics with our National Security because TERRORISM HAS NO POLITICAL PARTY. Security is the business of every Patriotic Nigerian.
In this Report we are presenting fresh photographic evidence of the ongoing military onslaught. This is the evidence some Nigerians have been demanding. Below are military updates.
- ••••••••••••••••••
ONYEMA NWACHUKWU
Brigadier General
Director Army Public Relations
30 August 2022
YOBE STATE SECURITY REPORT:
Troops Record Another Success –
The troops of Operation Desert Sanity on Monday 29 August 2022 neutralized several ISWAP/BokoHaram terrorists during a successful night ambush operation around Tamsun Ngamdu general area in Yobe State. Troops also recovered weapons, ammunition, mobile phones & a motorcycle.
KADUNA STATE SECURITY REPORT:
Army Fighting Patrol Neutralise Bandit In Kaduna –
A fighting patrol led by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja accompanied by a team of Operational commanders and operatives have cleared bandits in Buruku, Udawa, Manini, Birnin Gwari, Doka, Maganda, Kuyello and Dogon Dawa communities in Kaduna state, while on a fighting patrol on Monday 29 August 2022. In the fire fight that ensued during the engagements, the patrol team overpowered the bandits with superior fire power neutralizing, one of them, while three others were captured alive, as some of the criminal elements escaped with gunshot wounds. The Patrol team also recovered one AK 47 rifle, 27 rounds of 7.62 mm Special ammunition and 18 Motorcycles.
Members of the public, particularly health facilities and paramedics are please urged to watch out for persons who may be seeking medical attention for gunshot wounds and please report to relevant security agencies.
Patriot Ata Ikiddeh
Consultant & Coordinator
President Buhari Legacy Projects
The Presidency
PRESS STATEMENT
29th August, 2022
DELTA PDP CONGRATULATES SHERIFF OBOREVWORI, OVER APPEAL COURT VICTORY
The Delta State Peoples Democratic Party PDP, has congratulated its Governorship Candidate for the 2023 general elections, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on his victory at the Court of Appeal.
The congratulatory message was contained in a statement by Delta State PDP Publicity Secretary Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, which reads: “Delta State Peoples Democratic Party PDP, heartily congratulates our Gubernatorial candidate for the 2023 elections and the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, on his well deserved victory at the Court of Appeal.
It will be recalled that a Federal High Court had earlier given judgement, disqualifying Rt. Hon. Oborevwori from contesting the 2023 Delta Governorship election on account of the alleged discrepancies in his documents, but the matter was successfully appealed, and Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has been reconfirmed as the substantive Delta PDP Gubernatorial candidate for the 2023 election.
This defining victory at the Court of Appeal is not just a triumph for Rt. Hon. Oborevwori and his teeming supporters, but indeed a welcome victory for our great party, as it has revalidated and endorsed our stand that our party primaries were free, fair, transparent, and very credible.
We, therefore, use this medium to call and appeal to all loyal party members, especially our distinguished Olorogun David Edevbie, to see this victory as a solid and unshakable platform to come together as one united family and join hands with his brother Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori in the formidable PDP campaign train that will be put in place now that the issue of our Governorship candidate has been resolved.
We have consistently maintained that our party primaries were a family affair and that we will remain one united family irrespective of whatever the judicial result had been. The opposition is already devastated by this victory at the Court of Appeal and together we shall march with full confidence into the 2023 elections and triumph with an overwhelming landslide in all positions.
I call on all our Party Faithful to NOTE that there is; NO WINNER, NO VANQUISHED in the present circumstance.
Congratulations Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori!
Congratulations Delta PDP family!!
Congratulations Deltans.!!!
Delta is PDP and PDP is Delta.
PDP! Power to the People!!!
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
DELTA APC WELCOMES OBOREVWORI TO GUBER RACE
….. SAYS HE’S THE WEAKEST LINK IN THE CONTEST AHEAD
The Delta APC Gubernatorial Campaign Organisation has said the embattled Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, is the weakest link in the 2023 governorship election in the state, and welcomed his Monday afternoon “victory” at the Court of Appeal.
Specifically, the court had set aside the judgment of the Federal High Court which on July 7, 2022, nullified his nomination on grounds of certificate forgery and perjury preferred against him by his main opponent in PDP, David Edevbie.
Welcoming Oborevwori’s victory, the Director, Communications and Media Strategy of the Campaign Organisation, Ima Niboro, described it as good news for APC.
The former Presidential Spokesman described Oborevwori as a weak and compromised candidate who will find it impossible to explain why Deltans should give him and his fellow travellers another opportunity to mortgage the future of the state with more humongous loans with nothing to show.
He called on Deltans to resist Oborevwori, PDP and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa with their ballots, insisting that the PDP Governorship candidate who could not run a House of Assembly, definitely cannot govern a complex state like Delta.
His words: “Oborevwori’s victory at the Appeal court in the certificate fraud case against him by David Edevbie is good news. Oborevwori is the obvious weak link in the 2023 guber race.
“What more can you ask for when you have a Sheriff whose only claim to fame is a specious “street credibility,“ in a state gripped by a selfsame street anomie, a soaring crime wave, unemployment, greed and wickedness.
“What more can you ask for when Delta youths, already seething with anger, have been presented Okowa, the loan master’s main acolyte; his partner in mindless borrowing; his cheerleader in general misplacement of priorities, ineptitude, cluelessness and brinkmanship?
“Deltans do not want the continuation of a government that has pauperized and inflicted untold hardship on them; neither do they want a Sheriff coming to town just to ride roughshod over them: a Sherrif who foreshadows a coming lawlessness, dictatorship and lack of accountability.
Niboro enjoined Deltans to join hands with Delta APC to rescue the state from stranglehold of PDP, stressing that “APC’s Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, is leading the charge to chase out the locusts and cankerworm in human form feasting on our commonwealth at the expense of millions of our dehumanized and dispossessed people”.
Rume Ima Niboro,
Director, Communications and Media Strategy,
Delta APC Gubernatorial Campaign Organisation.
30th August, 2022
Okowa lauds FG over oil facilities surveillance contract
Delta Governor and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has commended the Federal Government for awarding oil facilities surveillance contract to a firm owned by Chief Government Ekpemupolo, an indigene of Niger Delta.
He said that the award indicated that the government heeded his advice for a review of oil facilities surveillance contracts to involve oil-bearing communities to check rising cases of oil theft, which he gave when a Federal Government delegation on oil-theft issues visited him recently in Asaba.
The delegation, which included the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Mallam Mele Kyari was led by Minister of State for Petroleum, Chief Timipre Sylva.
The governor pointed out that giving the job to people from Niger Delta would give them a sense of belonging and help to curtail the rising incidence of oil theft with its attendant effect on the nation’s economy.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, gave the commendation at a news conference, on Tuesday, in Asaba, and said that it was high time host communities, which suffer severe impacts of oil exploration and exploitation in the region were partners in the process and benefited from the proceeds.
According to him, giving surveillance contracts to indigenes was the way to go since they know the terrain very well and would put in their best to guard the facilities.
“A few weeks ago, the Federal Government delegation was here in Delta led by Minister of State for Petroleum, Chief Timipre Sylva; Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor and the Managing Director/CEO of the NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari and other stakeholders visited Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
“Their mission was to ask the that governor as a stakeholder in the Niger Delta, to assist in whatever way to curb, if not end, oil theft that according to them was sabotaging our economic re-engineering.
“Our Governor’s admonition was that to check the rising oil theft cases, the Federal Government should involve the oil-bearing communities, where the oil is produced.
“And, to involve them, the surveillance contracts for oil facilities surveillance in the area should be reviewed.
“In otherwords, make them to own it, let them be partners because if you make them part of it, they will guard, police and protect it.
“They will do anything to make sure that they protect it, but if you alienate them from it, they will leave it and allow anything to happen to it,” he said.
He said the state was happy to hear that just a few days after visit, the Federal Government listened to Governor Okowa’s advice and awarded the surveillance contract to Chief Government Ekpemupolo popularly known as Tompolo.
“The thrust here is that a few days after, that injunction by Governor Okowa was adopted by the Federal Government. I am sure that it was through the instrumentality of the delegation that came to Delta.
“We will like to commend them for that because involving host communities is kernel to policing oil facilities and checking oil theft and other vices that occur in the process.
“Across Niger Delta, the government ‘s step was applauded and commended because it is not just for Tompolo but to the host communities.
“The good thing here is that Federal Government heeded good counsel by accepting the advice of our Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, by giving the surveillance contract to Tompolo.
“So, we are commending the government for listening to the cries of host communities, because if they cannot own the oil blocks, let them, at the least, participate in the ones they can,” he said.
On striking university lecturers in the country, Okowa’s spokesman described the situation as deplorable and called on the Federal Government to come and understudy how Delta Government was managing four universities and enjoying industrial harmony.
He said that the same way Okowa advised Federal Government on oil theft, they should listen to him on education to understand how he and his team were managing four universities, running without strike.
“They should come and learn how Delta is keeping lecturers on campus while lecturers in federal universities have been on strike acrossthecountry since February.
“There is industrial harmony in our universities in Delta and all higher institutions in the state are in session.
“If you will recall that after we concessioned the Asaba Airport, the Federal Government sent an aviation team to Delta to find out how the concession was done,” he stated.
On Sheriff Oborevwori’s Appeal Court victory, Ifeajika described it as a family affair and a call for all party members to close ranks and come together and build the party to face the major opposition.
UPHOLDING CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS IS THE BEDROCK OF THE RULE OF LAW AND CIVILITY; OKPE UNION CANNOT BE DIFFERENT.*
When government officers are sworn in, their oaths of office entail an affirmation that they would abide by the Constitution and laws of the state. Similarly, when elected officers of organisations whether social groups, ethnic unions and others, are sworn into office, they take oath or swear to abide by the respective constitutions of the associations.
Any deviation from those oaths of offices is condemnable and even impeachable in many instances. We therefore call on all Okpe people to support and defend members of the elected National Executive Council of the Okpe Union for standing firm in the face of the autocratic, and unwarranted attempt to forcefully take over the administration of the Okpe Union by imposing non members of the Okpe Union to take over the administration of the over ninety two years old organisation which has had a history of peaceful democratic transfer of its leadership. Succeeding in undemocratically taking over the administration of the Okpe Union would result in the enslavement of the Okpe masses.
We therefore call on Okpe people and lovers of democracy and justice to support the legal actions embarked upon by the elected National Executive Council of the Okpe Union led by Prof Igho Natufe to stop the impostors from parading themselves as the leadership of the Okpe Union.
Allowing traditional and political leaders to hijack the Okpe Union as against the constitutional and historical position that only members of the union through delegates from branches in a General Assembly Meeting choose its leadership, would amount to the Okpe people allowing themselves into slavery. The Okpe Union is historically funded by membership dues to avoid control by politicians and self serving personalities.
May God save the Okpe Nation. Amen!
Akpederin K.E. Esq.,
*General Secretary, the Okpe Union.*
Issues-based campaigns guarantee peaceful elections – Kingsley Wali
A good governance crusader and social justice promoter, Kingsley Wenenda Wali, has emphasized the need for political parties, their candidates and supporters to adopt issue-based campaigns, as the country prepares for the official commencement of electioneering activities for the 2023 general election from the 28th of September.
Wali is the Convener of the Unity House Foundation (UHF), an advocacy group that promotes civil conversations, progressive and development-based politics, election of credible candidates into public offices, and engages in leadership training, human capacity building, skill acquisition and entrepreneurial development for youths and women.
The UHF leader maintained that it is only through issue-based electioneering process that peaceful polls leading to the election of the right candidates for the various political offices can be guaranteed.
Noting that elections should not be seen as a do-or-die affair, he wondered “Why some politicians find it so convenient to believe that it’s either they are in power, or no one else. They engage in rhetorics that intimidate the fickle minded and recruit the gullible. In the end, the people are less informed about what the issues really are. They end up making wrong decisions.
“Well, we must all come to terms with the fact that if this is about public service, then we must return to talking about the issues that will bring hope and development. Every nation or community, must be told why tomorrow is going to be better. Creating a state of national despondency or despair, only helps to create a society of the desperate or desperadoes. No society ever grows when desperadoes are captains.”
“When certain politicians demand that we engage in issues based campaigns and national debates, we must take up the challenge, so we can give our community, state and nation a fighting chance. Let’s learn to bring out the best and not the beast in us. We must celebrate the beautiful and competent ones in our midst, and not promote the garrulous brigands who threaten our peace and civil coexistence. Let’s begin to say the right things about who we are and how we used to engage in civil debates.”
He pleaded that “We must start talking about issues such as free or qualitative education, housing and urban renewal, health insurance schemes and how to revamp our health facilities, decentralization of development, agricultural and industrial revolutions and how we want to achieve those, so as to create jobs and guarantee safe and secure community.
“We must start identifying aspirants/candidates and parties with certain expectations. We can’t build our tomorrow on the abilities of people who accessed party tickets because they have boys – another way of gratifying criminality. Or electing people because they are cultists, bunkerers, kidnappers or even known murderers. These are the competences they are coming with, and why their parties nominated them in the first place.
“We must promote quality service delivery by insisting on civil conversations. We must encourage a process where those who have something to offer, can feel it’s safe to bring themselves forward to serve the public. Let’s insist on issues based campaign. This will help us assess the candidates and be well informed about the choices we want to make.
“As a community, we must condemn violent rhetorics, libelous and slanderous comments, campaigns or statements that promote hate and fear. One way of guaranteeing peaceful elections is peaceful campaigns. WE CAN DO IT.”