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Court Strikes Out Suit Challenging Delta State Government’s 150 Billion Loan Facility

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Hill Nigeria
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By Onoriode Etatsemi.

A Federal High Court sitting at Asaba, on Friday 24th June 2022, struck out the suit filed by one Prince Efe Henry Duku, challenging the State Government’s 150 billion Loan Facility as approved by the Delta State House of Assembly.

The Claimant had sued the Governor of Delta State, Delta State House of Assembly, Attorney-General of Delta State, Zenith Bank PLC, the Minister of Finance, Debt Management Bureau and the Attorney-General of the Federation over the Loan facility.

In response to the suit, the Delta State Attorney-General, Isaiah Bozimo Esq. led a legal team which included, Omamuzo Erebe Esq, Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, S.O Monye, Director of Civil Litigations , J. A Otite, Deputy Director, and Ogochukwu Okolotu a Senior State Counsel, to oppose the suit.

Both the Attorney-General and the Counsel to the Delta State House of Assembly, Ekeme Ohwovoriole SAN, filed respective Preliminary Objections challenging the competence of the suit on grounds that the Claimant lacked the requisite Locus standi to institute the suit and that there was no reasonable cause of action disclosed in the matter.

The Learned trial Judge, Honourable Justice Folashade Olubanjo, in her ruling upheld the Preliminary Objections.

The Court held that the Claimant in his statement of claim did not disclose any wrongful act done by the State Government and any damage suffered by him to warrant the filing of the suit.

The court stated that Claimant lacked the locus standing to institute the suit before the Court.

The Court also held that no reasonable cause of action was disclosed in the Claimant’s statement of claim.

The suit was accordingly struck out and cost of N500,000 each was awarded to the Governor of Delta State and the Delta State House of Assembly respectively.

Speaking to newsmen after the ruling was delivered, the Delta State Attorney-General stated that he was pleased with the ruling which upheld the objections raised by the State Government to the suit.

He stated that the court’s decision clears the way for the State Government to get on with the important business of governance for the betterment of its citizens.

He stated that the State’s Legal team was ready in the event that the Claimant decides to appeal the ruling of the Court.

Also reacting to the ruling, Counsel to Zenith Bank PLC , Felix Eseni, stated that it was not enough for a Claimant to just file a case without indicating his interest in the matter. He also expressed satisfaction with the ruling.

Abanum Advises Artisans To Obtain Their PVCs

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Hill Nigeria
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By Christy Aboghe

Chairman, Artisan Association of Nigeria, Delta State Chapter, Comr. Ifeanyi Abanum, has called on all members of the Association to get their Permanent Voter’s Card ready for the 2023 general election.

 

Abanum gave the call during the state Council meeting with executive members from the State, Local Government and representatives of executive members of the Association, in Asaba, Delta State.

 

He said ownership of their PVC would enable them exercise their franchise and vote in their choice leaders.

 

While expressing readiness to, give all aspirants of the ruling party in the state a befitting vote, he said the Association was prepared to strategize members ahead of the coming election.

On his part, the Director of Planning, Research and ICT in the state Contributory Health Commission, Mr Emmanuel Akpofure while commending the artisans for their support towards the development of the state, harped on the need for them to stay healthy.

 

Akpofure said it was only when they are healthy that they can work effectively, which is the reason the state government had brought health insurance scheme advocacy to them, so they could key into.

According to him the health insurance scheme was one of governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s  bill which he headed the setting up of and has been beneficial to Deltans as upon registration, they can access   health facility without looking for money to pay their medical bills.

 

Highlight of the meeting was presentation  of certificates in recognition of their positions as leaders in the various trades which makes up the Association  by the Chairman and the state government.

He said ownership of their PVC would enable them exercise their franchise and vote in their choice leaders.

 

While expressing readiness to, give all aspirants of the ruling party in the state a befitting vote, he said the Association was prepared to strategize members ahead of the coming election.

 

On his part, the Director of Planning, Research and ICT in the state Contributory Health Commission, Mr Emmanuel Akpofure while commending the artisans for their support towards the development of the state, harped on the need for them to stay healthy.

 

Akpofure said it was only when they are healthy that they can work effectively, which is the reason the state government had brought health insurance scheme advocacy to them, so they could key into.

 

According to him the health insurance scheme was one of governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s  bill which he headed the setting up of and has been beneficial to Deltans as upon registration, they can access   health facility without looking for money to pay their medical bills.

 

Highlight of the meeting was presentation  of certificates in recognition of their positions as leaders in the various trades which makes up the Association  by the Chairman and the state government

Okowa Never Betrayed Igbos- Abanum

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Hill Nigeria
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Chairman, Artisan Association of Nigerian, Delta State Chapter, Comr. Ifeanyi Abanum has refuted the speculations that the state governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa betrayed the Southerners.

 

Abanum made this known while speaking with Pressmenin Asaba, the state capital.

 

He said Okowa did not betray the Igbos in any way, adding that as an Igbo man had worked for the Party and had always work for the good of kkis people.

 

He said whatever the Igbo needed, Okowa had settled it and he is a figure to be reckoned with in the country and also in the state.

 

He advised that instead of them bickering over his emergence as Vice President, they should work  with Abubakar Atiku to make a change in the country.

 

While describing the governor Okowa as a blessing to the country, he said he deserves the office of Vice President under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

 

He said he and his members were optimistic that with  Okowa in the Presidency,  Nigeria would turn out to be a peaceful nation which it used to be.

 

While thanking the Almighty God for making it possible for a competent man, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa, to emerge as the Vice President of this country he prayed that it comes to pass in the coming general election.

 

The Chairman promised, with the support of his members, to give the incoming Vice President their massive votes, as they had tested him and earlier endorsed him as the country’s Vice President.

 

 

 

Vote Outstanding Candidates Nwaobia Charges Christians

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Hill Nigeria
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National Chairman, Southern Nigeria Christian Vanguard, Most Rev. Dr. Isaac Nwaobia (JP) has charged Christians to  vote the only one outstanding who have decided to partner with the citizens of Nigeria

Nwaobia gave the charge during the Southern Nigeria Christian Vanguard South South zonal prayer summit, with the theme ‘ God’s majestic power’, in Asaba, Delta State.

He said the masses needed a leader who is constantly telling them how he would provide solutions to numerous challenges of the country.

He  advised them to get their PVC, to enable them vote candidate of their choice, he also warned them to condemn the attitude of vote buying and thuggery during voting.

He added that it would enable them to vote out all those that have been in the corridor of power for years who also see themselves as demigods.

Nwaobia admonished them to be part of this movement which must be accomplished by voting  out all these men that has been in the corridor of power for years now, who also see themselves as demigods.

While congratulating the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) for been focused during the conventions of all the political parties, he insisted that additional time frame be given and that the electoral body be focused and avoid distractions as to gain the people’s confidence.

He said Southern Nigeria must have a voice, manifest to the glory of God and must be liberated.

While delivering  his speech, Bishop of Asaba Diocese of the Anglican Communion, Bishop Kingsley Obuh said it was time for Christians to pray for the Church so as not deviate from their focus or allow distraction from Politicians.

Obuh said when they pray God would arise bring judgement on the enemies of the Church.

On his part the state CAN Chairman, Sen. Apostle Sylvanus Okorote, who was represented by Pastor Greg Nwokobia, said only God’s counsel would stand in the state and country.

Nwokobia said with the fervent prayers of Christians, chains of captivity holding the country bound would be broken.

Party Structure Not Barrier To My Victory- Gbagi

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Hill Nigeria
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By Christy Aboghe

The gubernatorial flag bearer of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi has said, Party structure is not a criteria to his victory in the 2023 general election .

Gbagi made this known while briefing Journalists at his country home in Oginibo, Delta State.

He said structure has nothing to do with people voting their conscience, adding that the election was one in which every trader, teachers, pensioners, artisans would pick someone who can guarantee the future of their children.

He said he was prepared to prove his competence as it would prevail with the ballot papers at the 2023 polls.

He said it was left for the electorate to determine the fate of their unborn children and the state, from the choice of leader the vote.

“If you want your industries to revive I am the man to vote for”, he said.

He urged electorates not to sell their birthright for a package of Maggi, rice or any form of bribe, adding that the decision they make at the poll would make or mar their children’s future, hence they should be wise in their choices.

Olorogun Gbagi promised to work with youths and all well meaning Deltans in bringing about development to the state.

According the him, the 2023 general election, is an election where the electorate would have to pick somebody that they believe can guarantee the revival of their industries, future of their children and the fate of children yet unborn.

He said it was up to them to decide if they want the State to develop to a point when their salaries would be paid without delay, pensioners get their dues, and not lament if they make the wrong choice.

Ofoeyeno To Be Conferred EAU Award Of Excellence

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Hill Nigeria
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Chief Inspector, COREN and Engineering Regulation Monitoring (ERM), in Delta State, Engr. Bemigho Ofoeyeno would today be honoured with the European American University Award of Excellence.

The award which is in recognition of his sterling contributions and achievement in his field of endeavour.

According to the International partner and member of the University Council of the University, Dr Luke Okojie, the conferment on Engr. Bemigho would take place at the Auditorium of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industries, in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State.

Okowa: Your Candidature Was Never A Surprise To Us- Otirhue

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Hill Nigeria
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Chairman, Delta State Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Dcn. Joseph Otirhue has felicitated with the state governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa on his emergence as the Vice Presidential Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, (PDP).

Otirhue while congratulating his boss and the good people of the State on behalf of the members and management staff of the Commission, he said, governor Okowa’s track success records have fished him out, hence your candidature did not come to us as a surprise.

 

Undoubtedly, you will deliver on the mandate of the Party come 2023 general elections to rescue Nigeria.

VP: THOSE OPPOSED TO OKOWA ARE SELFISH – NED NWOKO.

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Hill Nigeria
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Frontline Philanthropist and politician, Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko has taken a swipe at those antagonising Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for his vice presidency bid, dismissing them as mischievous and selfish detractors.

Reacting to the opposition elements against Okowa, Hon.Nwoko in a press statement in Abuja said the hostility was grossly irresponsible and unreasonable.

Nwoko who is the Delta North Peoples Democratic Party senatorial candidate for the 2023 elections said Okowa’s traducers were insignificant political interests, in the affairs of the party and the nation.

He stated that some few persons who relied solely on political patronage for survival, had in frustration unsuccessfully formed themselves into voices of dissent, as the governor deployed his disciplined administrative footing to serve and develop Delta, In unprecedented commitment to duty.

The former member of House of Representatives for Aniocha /Oshimili federal constituency between 1999-2003, said no vile propaganda can lower Okowa’s antecedents heightened by good education, integrity, service and glory.

According to Nwoko:

“ Governor Ifeanyi Okowa leads among his peers, with the best qualifications to serve as Vice President of Nigeria. He is respected across the nation. He is a competent leader.Those criticizing him over the VP slot are selfish and criminally minded individuals.They don’t have the interest, well-being of Nigeria at heart. Okowa has all the rare credentials to help build a new Nigeria of our dream.

“ The few attacks against him are feeble and inconsequential with his huge contributions as governor and PDP leader, having deepened democracy and good governance. It is unfortunate that one of the persons quoted to have mouthed reckless words against Okowa had been a beneficiary who got political office. The governor deserves honour,not ingratitude and little mischief” Nwoko stated”

While expressing optimism that governor Okowa would remain relevant in Nigeria’s political developments, Prince Nwoko urged Deltans to continue to support him for the good of all.

Anioma People Rejoice As Illustrious Son, Dumebi Kachikwu Emerges ADC Presidential Flagbearer

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Hill Nigeria
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By Patrick Ochei

There is palpable joy across Anioma Nation as a result of the emergence of one of her illustrious sons and business mogul, Mr. Dumebi Kachikwu who is the Presidential flagbearer for African Democratic Congress, ADC.

Mr. Dumebi, the son of Late Justice Kachikwu from Onicha-Ugbo Town in Aniocha North LGA of Delta State, a business mogul and CEO of Roots TV, a social activist and politician of note, defeated the likes of the former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Prof. Kingsley Moghalu and a corporate czar, Mr. Chuka Monye with wide margin to emerge the candidate.

Right from Abeokuta where the primary was held to Abuja and Delta, it has been huge jubilations and celebrations as political analysts believed that the young intelligentsia has all it takes to govern Nigeria if given the opportunity.

Mr. Kachikwu had been in the forefront of crusades to end insecurity in Nigeria, revitalise the nation’s economy and develop infrastructures that can stand the test of time.

As a social crusader, he started the Roots TV and Roots Newspapers to educate and enlighten the mass of Nigerian youths to get productively engaged in ventures that drive advancement like ICT and Agriculture.

As a test case himself, he is a big time farmer in the North where he is engaging majority of youths on the need to stay in Agriculture and become who they want to be in life.

Based on this belief that the future of Nigeria lies with the youths to engage their spirit, energy and intellect, Kachikwu years back started an annual empowerment of youths who want to venture into Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Agriculture and others.

To have garnered the popularity to defeat the likes of Kingsley Moghalu and Chuka Monye in a Presidential primary contest speaks volume of his political pedigree and credentials which had spanned years even though behind the scene.

This immense political achievement greatly excites the people of Delta North Senatorial District (Anioma) where Dumebi Kachikwu hails from, as there has been jubilations and celebrations at various quarters of Anioma, Delta, Nigeria and even beyond.

In a telephone interview with the Traditional Ruler of Onicha-Ugbo Kingdom, HRM Obi Victor Chukwumalieze, he was full of joy to hear the good news, saying he initially thought it was a rumour.

He congratulated Dumebi, an illustrious subject, wishing him God’s abundant blessings and protection ahead of the general elections.

He called on Nigerians, especially the youths to support him in order for the nation to tap from his wealth of knowledge.

Obi Chukwumalieze affirmed that he would intimate the General Assembly (Izuani) of Onicha-Ugbo to back him up with prayers, adding that he has made the community proud and can never be left alone.

The ADC Delta North Chairman, Comrade Uche Okonji was also enthusiastic about the victory of Dumebi Kachikwu, and he maintained that the Senatorial District under him had duly congratulated the new ADC Presidential candidate.

He said the 2023 general election is all about the youths and the future of Nigeria, insisting that Dumebi Kachikwu possesses the best credentials to satisfy the yearnings of the youths and at the same time meet the obligation of redirecting the leadership focus of the country, which the current old regime could not achieve.

He affirmed that ADC as a party in Delta State is united and would work in synergy with others across the federation to deliver the young, vibrant, dynamic, cerebral and highly achieved Dumebi Kachikwu as President to change the narratives of Nigeria.

DTSG, NBA Guarantees Free Legal Services For Detained Suspects

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Hill Nigeria
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… Domesticates Police Duty Solicitor Scheme To Curb Illegal Detention

Illegal detention of persons (suspects) by the police would no longer be condoned, following the domestication of the Police Duty Solicitor Scheme (PDSS) in Delta State.

To this end, free legal services to vulnerable and indigent persons detained in police stations pending the completion of investigations was, yesterday, guaranteed by the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Isaiah Bozimo.

According to Bozimo, the PDS scheme corroborated earlier efforts of the state government in the efficient and effective administration of criminal justice in the state, especially unlawful detentions.

‘’The PDSS is a scheme whereby a practicing lawyer is stationed at a police station to interface with the detainees. Their function is to ensure that at that earlier stateg there is access to justice (for the detainees) and by extension, make sure that there is appropriate application for bail where the constitutional provisions for custody has elapsed.

‘’This is important because you need an early contact between those who are incarcerated and the legal system to ensure that we do not have these anomalies where an individual will be in police custody for months without access to justice or a lawyer.

Meanwhile, the state Solicitor-General and functioning Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, Mr. Omamuzo Erebe, attributed the prolonged detention of detainees to the hostile attitude of the police towards lawyers, which, he said, would be addressed by the PDSS to ensure the constitutional rights of detainees.

‘’Lawyers will be deployed to police stations in an eight-hourly shift arrangement. This means that there must be a lawyer stationed at the police station whose duty it is to ensure that whenever a suspect comes in, there are provided with legal representation.

‘’The project is starting as a pilot scheme for the state Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and then reviewed over the years. The main source of lawyers will be members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) because we have a lot of them who are not fully engaged.

Addressing our correspondent, the NBA Asaba Branch Chairman, Augustine Eseagwu, said that the symposium sought to introduce the PDS scheme, which sought to cede lawyers to various police posts to advice detainees of their rights.

‘’This is a gradual realignment of how things were done before as against how things are supposed to be done now…. With the PDSS, the NBA is giving its mite to the enforcement of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL).

‘’This will take advantage of the numerous young lawyers and assign them to the different detention centers and police stations so that at every time when someone is arrested, there is a lawyer to advice the suspect free of charge. This is the first step in the administration of criminal justice.

Buttressing Eseagwu’s assertions, the Vice Chairman of NBA, Asaba Branch and the Chairman of the Human Rights Committee of the NBA Asaba Branch, Mrs. Juliet Ojefia, added that elements of the PDSS already featured at the magistrate level.

‘’After 24 hours, you are supposed to grant bail to a suspect. So, the duty of the magistrate is to ensure that suspects were not unduly held. The PDSS also helps to decongest correctional facilities, holding charge and awaiting-trial inmates.

‘’This scheme also helps the government to save a lot of money because if there are so many inmates in correctional facilities, so much money would be needed to feed them, care for them’’ Ojefia said, even as she stressed that the NBA would sufficiently educate the public on the existence of the PDSS.

The symposium, which was graced by stakeholders from the Law Officers Association of Nigeria (LOAN), International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) and other associated bodies, featured delivered by Adebayo Akinlade and Omamuzo Erebe.

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