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Asaba Communities Protest Against Dennis Osadebe University

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Hill Nigeria
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Youths of Asaba, Delta State capital, yesterday, protested over alleged exclusion in the employment process at the Dennis Osadebey University.

Situated in the Anwai area of Asaba, the university was established by the state government in 2021.

In a peaceful demonstration, the youths accused the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ben Oghojafor, of playing ethnic card by allegedly favouring his Urhobo kinsmen in the employment process.

The placard-bearing protesters alleged that the principle of local content has been disregarded by the management of the institution, threatening to shut down the university if the situation was not addressed.

Speaking during the protest, president of Asaba Youths, Obodo Okediachi, said as the host community, Asaba sons and daughters were being denied their privileges.

“The university is in our home and anything that is in your home, you are supposed to benefit from it. We, the Asaba community, are not benefitting from Osadebey University.

“There is no local content in the employment procedure, people that are living around here should be engaged, our younger ones not are not employed,” he said.

Also, Chairman of Asaba Community Employment Committee, Ndubuisi Biose, said the action of the university management was unacceptable.

“Initially, they told us that they would co-opt members of staff from the civil service but we came to find out that he has been employing fresh academic and non-academic staff into the university.

“In all fairness, one or two of our people are here but there is what we call local content, we are the host community, this is Asaba in Oshimili land.
“It might interest you to know that there are six faculties here plus the Dean of Students Affairs making it seven. No dean is of Oshimili extraction, not even one. No Oshimili person is heading any department.

“It may also interest you to know that Oshimili as a whole has no single professor in this school. Our sons and daughters who are professors submitted their CVs, and you told them keep in view yet you are busy bringing in your own people, playing the ethnic card,” he alleged.

But the VC has dismissed the allegations, saying employment in the university was based on merit and area of need.

“This is a university, and you look for the best grade to operate. Two, the figures of people employed will bear testimony to that fact. We employed people across Nigeria not only the people of the state because we are looking for the best to come.

“I had gone to the Asagba of Asaba to get me people of Asaba extraction that can be employed in the university in relevant areas.

“How do you have people who just read one thing or the other and are not prepared for post university employment? We take people as we have the need for them.

“If I am looking for accountants, I have to headhunt for accountants to come into the bursary and audit. The fact would speak for itself,” he said.

Oghojafor described as fallacy claims by the protesters that professors of Asaba extraction were not employed, challenging them to bring forward those who applied and were denied employment.

Promote Grassroots Journalism, Ifeajika Charges Newsmen

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Hill Nigeria
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The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, has called on journalists to carve a niche for themselves by giving attention to issues in the grassroots in their reportage.

He particularly challenged members of Indigenous Correspondents Chapel (ICC) of the Nigeria Union Journalists (NUJ) in the state to, as local reporters, mirror the rural communities to the government and public and vice versa.

Ifeajika made the call when he received the new Executive Committee members of ICC who visited him at his office at Government House, Asaba.

He urged them to redirect their reportorial skills and energy to the coverage of activities and events within local milieu, adding that as their name implies, they should be grassroots-based and oriented.

According to him, there is so much to be done in the remote areas, and those that are indigenous should always be local and be there with the local people.

The CPS maintained that a situation where those that were indigenous, going by their nomenclature, always report in the cities, did not appropriately give them the identity that corresponded with their name.

“The Indigenous Correspondents, like the name implies, is a grassroots-focused group. I tell journalists that it is not enough for everybody to be in the cities and report what happens in the cities.

“There is so much to be done in the mundane areas. Those that are indigenous should always be local and be there with the people. But I see a situation where even those that are indigenous always report in the cities.

“And, I want to appeal that as indigenous correspondents, you should truly to be indigenous and grassroots people; go and find out what is happening in the rural areas instead of competing with major media outlets in the cities.

“We should take time to look at what happens to our people in the rural areas and you will be surprised that you cannot quantify the mileage you will get in reporting if you do so,” he said.

Ifeajika noted that government was doing so much in the rural areas which should be reported, stressing that reporting areas where government had not been able to reach, will always help government to do what it ought to do.

While congratulating executive members of ICC on their successful election, Ifeajika urged them and other media practitioners in the state to sustain their partnership with the government by always reporting the policies and programmes of the state government.

He also charged journalists in the state to take their practice to a top-notch by reporting constructively and objectively, adding that as journalists, they should be abreast with issues in the society and dress decently so as to earn the people’s respect.

Earlier in his speech, the Chairman of the chapel, Comrade Kenneth Orusi, had told the CPS that they were in his office on a courtesy visit and to formally introduce the new executive committee members of ICC to him.

Orusi ĺlauded the CPS for the great role that he has been playing since he assumed duties as the spokesman of the governor, pointing out that they were very glad that he had carried them along in the scheme of things.

While commending Mĺ Ifeajika for graciously making it possible for the Indigenous Correspondents Chapel to benefit from the stipends paid to NUJ Chapels in the state, he however, appealed for an upward review of the stipends paid to his members.

Group Commends NNPC, Tompolo and Tantita Security Service Over Security of oil facilities

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Hill Nigeria
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The leadership of Southern Nigeria Youth Congress, (SYNC) has commended the Federal Government, NNPC Ltd. and non-state actors for ensuring security of oil facilities in our oil producing stateas.

The acting National President, SNYC, Emordi Ugochukwu Caleb (Odogwu) made this known is a statement signed by him at the recent inauguration of SYNC on Saturday May 20, 2023.

He did mentioned that the security of oil facilities at the region had resulted to increase in the volume of crude oil production.

While commending the Federal Government, the Navy and Tantita Security Service Nigeria Limited for their success so far, he stressed on the need for government to look into offshore oil theft.

Furthermore, He acknowledged the successes recorded in the crude oil production as a result of signing of the pipeline surveillance contract with Tantita Security Services Ltd., owned by Government Tompolo.

Speaking, Emordi assured that Tompolo, who was the former leader of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), was in the best position to execute the surveillance contract, having carried out similar exercise successfully, and that they are convinced he would secure the pipelines across the region for the benefit of the country.

The group leader, Comr. Emordi  noted that Tompolo halted bunkering activities in the Niger Delta, Southern Nigeria region due to the destruction of aquatic life and its health drifts and cause-effects.

“It is on record that Tompolo has worked tirelessly for symmetry and advancement in Southern Nigeria and would continue to sustain and protect the wealth of the nation in collaboration with other stakeholders”, he added.

“On this premise, the Southern Nigeria Youth Congress is solemnly proud of the decision of the Federal Government for awarding such an enormous and tasking contract to a pathfinder like Government Tompolo”, he said.

Honestly, “we must commend the Buhari-led administration and the Government of the day for doing the right thing by consenting to the conservation of a vital nation’s wealth to our leader, Tompolo”.

“In fact, the contract with Tompolo is another source of empowerment for the people of the Southern region, particularly the Niger Delta”.

“Again, We are ready to support the Federal Government’s efforts to curb crude oil theft and illegal oil bunkering in the Southern region and the development of the region as well as to boost the economy of the country”.

He also declared the support of the group for the Federal Government’s action, assuring of Tompolo’s capacity to help save the country billions of naira being lost through oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

Rita Daniels Conferred With Dame Title

By
Hill Nigeria
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Nollywood Icon,  Chief (Hon) Dr Rita Daniels Chukwuji, has been honoured as a Dame by the Order of the Black African Knights of Rasta Fari Haile Selassie.

Rita Daniel was given the title by a delegation of the Africa Region Headquarters of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Nairobi, Kenya. recently in Asaba, Delta State capital.

Dame Rita, promised to institute an award for interfaith unity for peace revival and reconciliation in Africa, adding that though global challenges appeared threatening, optimism was powerful, progress possible and perseverance critical towards achieving a brighter future for Africa.

According to her, the realities on ground across the globe were indicative of a world in crisis, with the forces of division and hate finding fertile ground in a landscape marred by injustices and conflicts, adding that divisions were widening between the rich and poor, North and South, developed and emerging economies, just as political, social and economic tension was rising.

While thanking the African Indigenous Religions Committee and the Africa Region Headquarters of the IHRC for the recognition accorded her, she said was a call to focus on the dreams and vision of the UN interfaith and harmony.

She also appreciated the Chairman of the IHRC Africa Indigenous Religions Committee, Dr (Sir) Valentine Akpati, for his commitment to the defence of interreligious and intercultural dialogue, tolerance and diversity, which were necessary for societal and global peace and harmony.

Speaking, the Director of the Africa Region Headquarters, Geneva, Dr. (Sir) Tivlumun Innocent Ahure, said the investiture of the popular Nollywood Actress and politician was in appreciation for her interest in promoting the priorities and agenda of the Committee on African Indigenous religions.

He said as a Special Representative Envoy to the African Union on Community Development Service, Rita Daniels would handle matters relating to Africa renaissance and serve as the Chief Diplomat of the Black Africa Knights of the Order Rasta Fari Emperor Haile Selassie.

According to him, Dame Rita Daniels had been a long-standing African woman leader committed to promoting interfaith understanding and defending freedom of religion, which the African Indigenous Religions Committee of the IHRC was set to achieve.

He said the Order was a knighthood promoted by the Africa Indigenous Religions Committee of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC).

Highlight of the investiture of Dame Rita Daniels, which was graced by Monarchs and other dignitaries, was also her appointment as the IHRC Special Representative Envoy to the African Union on Community Development Service.

New  Varsities My Enduring Legacies For Deltans – Okowa

By
Hill Nigeria
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Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta says the establishment of three new universities remains the highest of his administration’s legacies for the state.

He said he was happy that the new universities had justified their establishment by bridging the gaps in university admission and making it cheaper and closer to Deltans.

Okowa stated this on Saturday at the Founders’ Day Celebration of University of Delta, Agbor, and said that the
university had justified its establishment by admitting no fewer than 5,219 students since it began academic activities in the 2022/2023 academic session.

He said that founders’ day meant a lot to a school as it allowed members of the university community to meet friends and associates to thank those who founded the school and others who had contributed to its growth.

“Today’s event is about the success of a purposeful idea aimed at expanding the frontiers of knowledge and institutionalizing the deepening of higher education for the advancement of society through research, teaching and learning; the tripod on which tertiary education stands.

“Today, the three new universities we established are in session and have helped in narrowing the gap while at the same time, bringing higher education nearer and cheaper to our people,” he said.

The governor appealed to the university’s Governing Council and Management to continue on the trajectory of raising the stakes in its determination to grow it to enviable heights.

“For the students, I implore you to exhibit the highest sense of responsibility and patriotism. This university should be known for academic excellence, because that way, you can attract goodwill and resources to your university.

“This will attract endowments, scholarship schemes and other benefits from stakeholders and well-meaning members of society eager to leave landmarks and legacies here.

“Please be proud of the opportunity you have been offered to do the right things and carry out the intention, purpose and vision of the founders – real education for the advancement of society while preparing for a successful and purposeful future.”

He charged the university’s authorities to ensure that students were trained in entrepreneurship studies and engaged in research and consultancy services as a means of generating funding for the university.

On the criticisms trailing the school fees charged in the universities, Okowa appealed to parents and guardians to show understanding, saying that the naira had depreciated over time.

“I have heard people complain that the fees are too much, but I know that the total fees paid in this institution and the other two institutions is less than N200,000 per annum.

“I am also aware of private universities that charge fees running up to millions per annum. Imagine the plight of an average family with three wards who are qualified for admission to universities.

“People must understand that the naira has depreciated a lot and the universities must run their affairs. We pay the salaries of all the staff and the infrastructure as much as we can but it’s important that the universities are financially strong to enable then run the day-to-day activities of the institution.

“We believe that we don’t want to have universities that cannot keep the students in a functional state of learning so I appeal to parents to please bear with us as the naira has since depreciated,” he said.

In her speech, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Stella Chiemeke, who lauded the vision behind the establishment of the university, said that at its inception in 2021, UNIDEL commenced academic activities with eight faculties approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

Chiemeke stated that four of the faculties were domiciled at the main campus in Agbor while two each were domiciled at Owa-Oyibu and Owa-Alero campuses in Ika North-East Local Government Area of the state.

According to her, the Faculty of Arts has eight programmes, Faculty of Computing offers four programmes, the Faculty of Education mounts 22 programmes, and the Faculties of Engineering, Environmental Sciences and Science have six, five and 12 programmes, respectively.

She pointed out that the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences had 12 programmes, and that the Faculty of Law had only one programme.

While paying tributes to Governor Okowa for  floating the three state-owned universities simultaneously, Chiemeke said that the institution offered admission to 5,219 students into various academic programmes for 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions.

Delivering a lecture titled “National Growth And Development: Building A Robust Partnership Between The Military And The Ivory Tower For A Better Nigeria, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor, said that national growth and development were the aspirations of every nation.

Irabor noted that most nations utilised the instruments of state such as the armed forces and educational sectors in achieving such objectives, pointing out that in Nigeria, the Armed Forces provided the enabling security environment in line with its role as stipulated in the 1999 constitution.

He disclosed that educational institutions across the country had also made remarkable contributions to national growth and development by empowering people with adequate knowledge, requisite skills and values.

According to the CDS, Nigeria could attain higher national growth and development if the military and the academia work more closely together in a collaborative partnership to harness the immense capacity of both institutions.

Governor Okowa also inaugurated the new Ika South Local Government Council Legislative Building and the LadyOak Cancer Care Centre built at the Central Hospital Agbor.

JAD Behind Crisis In Ugborodo -Oborogbeyi

By
Hill Nigeria
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The Chairman, Ugborodo Community Trust, Barrister Augustine Oborogbeyi has blamed JAD Group of Companies over the crisis in the oil-rich community in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.

He said on Sunday, May 21, 2023, in a press release that the JAD Group has been regularly awarded Contracts since 2008 but never carried out any development at all in the Community.

According to him, all Communities in Warri Kingdom are autonomous administratively under the overlordship of the Olu of Warri, adding that a Supreme Court consent judgment in 1972 put an end to some Ugborodo people assertion of autonomy from Warri Kingdom.

“Ugborodo Community as an integral part of Warri Kingdom anchored the Palace Watch, (Ghigho – Aghofen) between December 17, 2022 and  April 27, 2023 and His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse lll was in Ugborodo Community on 15th April 2023”., he said.

He stated that; “The PIA as stated by Perry Atete is Community based and after the Setlors series of meetings with the stakeholders from the oil bearing Communities, which these characters participated in, the sub Communities of Ode-Ugborodo, Ogidigben, Ajudaibo, Madangho and Ijaghala submitted nominees for the PIA Board of Trustees which has since been registered. Ugborodo Community is not the property of these agitators no matter how highly placed they think of themselves, including the persons in the positions of the Eghare-Aja and Olajori”.

“These same persons have been frustrating the Ugborodo Community Trust Executive under the Chairmanship of Barrister Augustine Oboroegbeyi for no other reason but for not being in charge of Ugborodo Community affairs, as they are used to. Their modus operandi is propagating violence and frustration of the development of the Community”, he added.

He disclosed that; “Since 2008 they recommended the Lebanese JAD Group of Companies as Ugborodo Community Contractors for Contracts in NNPC/ Chevron Joint Venture and SPDC to provide from the proceeds of Contracts funds for the development of Ugborodo Community. The JAD Group has been regularly awarded Contracts since 2008 but carries out no development at all in the Community. That is not of concern or interest of these characters but theirs is to fleece the Community and thus the frustration by all means, of the Barrister Augustine Oboroegbeyi Trust Executive championing the cause that the JAD Group should pay all entitlements
due Ugborodo Community from the proceeds of Contracts being awarded to the JAD Group on behalf of Ugborodo Community since 2009. Can these people show us the benefits to Ugborodo Community on the execution of the Chevron multi billion Dollars EGTL Project”.

“The gain of a new Ugborodo Town during acquisition of the land for the EGTL Project was by the Sandys Omadeli Uvwoh led Trust in which Barrister Augustine Oboroegbeyi was Secretary. Furthermore, where are the hundreds of housing units for the Ugborodo new Town that Delta State Government contracted and budgeted Billions of Naira for. What of the Billion Naira shore protection Contract awarded to one of these agitators? As usual, the JAD Group is behind the current agitation which is a smoke screen to divert attention from several Investigations on its fraudulent activities”, he said.

Our Correspondent reports that there is an ongoing protest in which Ugborodo youths have occupied the Escravos Crude oil tank farm and loading terminal of Chevron. It started almost one week ago, with logistic supplies to the facility stalled.

Be Cautious Of Weather Climate So As Not To Be Affected By Flood, Omonizua Tells Farmers

By
Hill Nigeria
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…As FG Empowers Yam, Cassava farmers In Delta State

By Christy Aboghe

The Programme Manager, Delta  Agricultural  and Rural Development Agency (DARDA), Dr. Julius Omonizua has harped on the need for  farmers in the state to adapt to climate change before planting crops.

Omonizua gave the advise during the opening ceremony of the emergency training on cassava and yam production organised by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, (FMARD) at Ibusa.

He said, with the worsening effect of the last year’s flood on farmers  in the state, it was ideal for them to know the weather climate before and after planting crops in order not to be taken unaware.

The Programme Manager commended the Federal government for supporting farmers in the state through trainings and other benefits that would help mitigate the effects of the flood on farmers.

He also urged the Farmers to take farming profession as a business, so as make good earnings out of it.

The state Director, FMARD, Mr John Onowroke,  said the training was to give the farmers early warning as it relates to climate change in the country which should not be taken for granted and also stressed on the need to embark on the training.

Onowroke, pointed out that the training would help them improve their capacity in growing of cassava and yam.

The Programme coordinator and Senior Agric officer, FMARD,  Mr Chris Ovili called on the participants to take the training serious stressing that the knowledge gained would go a long way to improve on their farming business and also impact knowledge in the lives of the farmers.

Speaking, the senior Agric Officer, Mr David Melayekuku, said that the  Federal government dimmed it right to ensure that all the states affected by the flood benefits from the starter pack.

Melayekuku, pointed out that each farmer would get starter packs at the end of the training as a support from the federal government to help them in their farm business.

The beneficiaries thanked the federal government for the privilege and support given to them.

The resource persons, Mr.Denis Abuga and Mrs. Mamode Ogboru lectured on the importance of diversification of crops and monitoring of weather conditions before planting.

According to them, water management, land management, fertiliser and manure application were important when planting.

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa Bags Best Inspirational Governor Award

By
Hill Nigeria
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By Christy Aboghe

Chairman, Nigeria Automobile Technicians Association, Delta State chapter, Comrade Ifeanyi Abanum  has described the state governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa as a leader who has kept to all his promises and even beyond.

Abanum made this known during the commissioning of the Ultra- Modern Mechanic Village in Asaba, the state capital.

He said the governor has lived his dream of making the state stronger and well developed than he met it, through the infrastructural development and upgrading of the educational system in the state, amongst other developmental strides of his stronger Delta agenda.

While presenting the governor Okowa with an award as the best inspirational governor in Nigeria to all Automobile technicians, he said the governor has ensured that there was sanity and conducive work environment for them in Delta state.Abanum said the governor has been able to change the mentality the public had about the mechanics by improving the standard of their lives and business.

He said the honour which was well deserved by the governor was in appreciation of his love and many supports towards them.

The Governor in his remark, commended them for the automobile technicians for making life meaningful for Deltans whenever their vehicles had challenges

Sen Dr. Okowa urged them to endeavour to maintain the standard of their work environment.

SNYC Inaugurates New Executives

By
Hill Nigeria
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… As Chief Omenogor, Kachikwu, Ikem Charges Youths to Work As Team

By Christy Aboghe

The Southern Nigeria Youth Congress, (SNYC) has sworn in  new executive that will run the affairs of the group for the next two years.

The event which took place during fourth Non-Elective Congress and Inauguration of the third National Executive Council, in Asaba, Delta State.

While inaugurating the new executive, the out-gone President-General of SNYC, Hon. Famuyibo Nathaniel Oluwasegun, advised the new executive to work assiduously to take the congress to enviable heights.

In his acceptance speech, the Acting President-General of SNYC, Comr Emordi Ugochukwu Caleb, promised to work closely with his executives in order justify the confidence reposed in him by the youths.

The grand patron of the organization and  General Manager of Aklen Oil and Gas, Chief (Sir) Dele Omenogor charged the newly inaugurated to work as a team so as to achieve set goals.

Earlier, Barr (Mrs.) Josephine Ada Kachikwu, called for more active participation of female youths in politics to enhance all round development.

The pioneer President-General of SNYC, Comrade Ogheneyole Ugagaoghene, advised the youths to consolidate on the exceptional performance of youths during the general elections, declaring that it was time for youths to take over the leadership of the country.

In his words, the Executive Secretary, Delta State Technical and Vocational Education Board, Engr. Ikem Smart, charged the new executive and members of the organisation to imbibe team spirit in the discharge of their duties, noting that it was sacrosanct to the success of the Congress.

The event which featured presentation of awards of excellence to deserving individuals from Southern Nigeria, had youths from across the 17 Southern states of the country dignitaries and observers, in attendance.

NADESSTU Dissolves Electoral Committee, Outgoing Executives

By
Hill Nigeria
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…Elects New Executives

…Lauds Okowa’s support, Bursary Payment To Students From Delta State.

The elected Chairman of the convention of the National Association of Delta State Students (NADESSTU), Comrade  Akpevwe Isaac has dissolved all standing, adhoc committee, outgoing executives and elected new executives for the association.

The desolation took place at the Nadesstu National convention held in NUT secretariat Asaba , Delta state before proceeding with the election of new executives in  line with the constitution of the Association and was disclosed to the Press in a communique signed by him and the Secretary of the Electoral committee,  Comrade Kesiena Samuel and the Chairman Comrade Akpevwe Otite Isaac.

He frowned at the irresponsible and illegitimate activities of the dissolved Electoral Committee to meet up with the constitutional requirements and for not adhering to due process used in clearing aspirants vying for elective offices.

He also called for strident measures to be put in place to immediately correct the error of the electoral committee.

 

The elected Chairman, commended the state governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa for supporting the association and payment of bursary to student of Delta State origin worldwide.

He appraised the Okowa led administration for creating a peaceful and enabling environment for students in the state by creating more institutions, while charging the government to improve on proper funding of the institutions.

He affirmed his commitment to protecting the interest of Delta State students worldwide and the interest of the Association as the body overseeing the welfare of the students of Delta State origin both in the state and in diaspora.

He also called on the federal government to take urgent steps towards fixing the deplorable federal roads in the state and her environs to avoid road accidents and loss of life.

The Chairman also applauded the outgoing executives led by Comrade Nwkor Gabriel for the efforts in moving the association forward.

Highlight of the convention was the electing of Comrade Wiska Monday of DELSU as the President elect; Comrade Ruth Obianuju Joga of Ambrose Alli University as Vice Chairman elect; Comrade Ikpidi John of FUPRE as Secretary General elect; Emojero Vivian of FUTA as Assistant Secretary general; Comrade Okechukwu Benedict Kingsley of DELSU  as Treasurer; Comrade Orji Precious of DSPG as Director of Welfare; Comrade Elvis Omonigho Emmanuel Okeoghene of UNICAL as Senate President elect; Comrade Oghenevowro Onogho Emmanuel of DSPG as Director of Mobilization; Comrade Ezekiel Ighodaro of UNIBEN as Deputy Senate President, Comr. Kevwe Idamararhe, South South zonal cordinator elect and Asieba Oghenekevwe Andrew of UNIJOS as Senate Clerk elect, by the elected Chairman of the convention.

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