Home Blog Page 19

How Boundary Disputes Negate Peace, Security, Progress in Nigeria – Oborevwori

By
Hill Nigeria
-

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, yesterday, said boundary disputes militates against peace, security and prosperity of communities across the country.

He said so many lives have been lost to boundary disputes and called on the National Boundary Commission and other stakeholders to work assiduously in resolving boundary disputes among border communities in the country.

Governor Oborevwori disclosed this at a one-day workshop for the creation of platform for Nigeria’s coastal states and local government areas with theme: Towards a secure, peaceful and prosperous borders held at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.

Governor Oborevwori who noted that the theme for the meeting, “Towards Secure, Peaceful and Prosperous Borders” is very apt and timely, said that boundary dispute is an ancient and modern disease of humanity.

He added that right from the colonial days, Nigeria has been plagued by boundary disputes, which has had disastrous and destabilizing consequences on the people.

He said: “There is scarcely any state in Nigeria that has not been involved in boundary disputes with its neigbhours, often resulting in displacement, death, and destruction.

“Reports indicate that between January 2018 and August 2022, 676 people were killed in various communal and boundary clashes in Nigeria.

“Often the causes of these disputes are traceable to land ownership, community pride, ancient or colonial boundaries, and socio-cultural factors.

“In Delta State, it is safe to say that at least 80% of boundary disputes revolve around land use either for farming, mining, and other purposes of economic significance.

“The resultant clashes often leave in their trail, a chunk of Internally Displaced Persons with the implication this has for their safety and wellbeing. As we all know, the living conditions in IDP camps are unsalutary and inevitably constitute environmental hazards.”

He charged National Boundary Commission, to work harder in resolving boundary disputes across the country.

“As the body responsible for resolving boundary disputes in Nigeria, the National Boundary Commission is critical to the peace, security, and prosperity of our communities.

“It is incumbent on it to embark on enlightenment and sensitization programmes to educate the people on the importance of respecting boundaries.

“It must also properly investigate cases of boundary disputes. In discharging this vital responsibility, officials of the Commission must demonstrate the highest levels of objectivity, neutrality, and integrity to instil confidence and elicit the goodwill of the people.

“Conversations break down fast once there is a perception of favouritism or nepotism on the part of those who are supposed to be impartial arbiters.

“It goes without saying that an effective conflict resolution mechanism is critical for maintaining national security. Hence, there is need for strong political will on the part of the government to implement recommendations that will resolve disputes amicably, and prevent future border disputes.

“With enhanced peace and security at the core of our MORE agenda, we are committed to partnering with the Commission to discharge its functions effectively for a secure, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria.”

In his welcome remarks, Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, expressed delight that the African Union Border Governance Strategy is looking into good border governance and the attainment of sustainable development.

He urged the African Union to sustain the tempo to ensure the harmonisation of all grey areas along the boundary communities.

Onyeme, who is the Chairman of Delta State Boundary Commission, observed that the European colonisers arbitrarily, without due regards to the ethnic homogeneity of many African groups, were forced to belong to different nations, while diverse heterogeneous communities were hurriedly bundled into a single nation with distinct boundaries.

Deputy Governors of Bayelsa and Rivers, Senator Lawrence Egwhrudjakpor and Professor Ngozi Odu who also spoke at the ceremony, called on relevant authorities to discuss boundary issues often in other to resolve these boundary disputes.

Director-General National Boundaries Commission, Surveyor Adamu Adaji, said the workshop was primarily designed to engage Nigeria’s coastal states and local government areas as well as the traditional rulers in effective border governance in Nigeria.

Traditional rulers from the South West and South South states among other stakeholders attended the one day workshop.

EFCC Grants Okowa Bail

By
Hill Nigeria
-

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has released the former governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa after he perfected his bail conditions.

The former governor was arrested last week by the anti-graft agency for alleged diversion of N1.3 trillion .

He was given administrative bail and was said to have been released on Sunday evening.

According to an impeccable source, Okowa’s passport was allegedly seized by EFCC as part of his bail condition.

Okowa was arrested last Monday in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital, when he reported to the EFCC office following an invitation over the matter.

It would be recall that operatives of EFCC arrested Okowa, over the said amount said to be part of 13 percent derivation fund earmarked for oil-producing states as the funds were allegedly diverted between 2015 and 2023, when he held sway as governor of the oil rich State.

Confirming the seizure of Okowa’s passport and other documents, the EFFC Spokesman, Mr. Dele Oyewale, said it is the normal practice in law enforcement.

Hear: “that is normal practice in law enforcement, when you grant somebody bail, you ask for the person’s international passport and some other conditions. It is normal”, Oyewale, said.

Jamani Inaugurates Climate Change Team

By
Hill Nigeria
-

By: Uche Anita Chukwuma

Following the approval of the Constitution of the technical working group/ Interministerial committee by His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Mr Jamani Tommy Ejiro has inaugurated a technical working group/ interministerial committee at the Professor Chike Edozien Secretariat complex, Asaba on the 13th of November,2024.

While inaugurating the Climate Change team, the Hon Commissioner said the establishment of the committee was a crucial step towards ensuring proper coordination of climate change activities in the State. Stating that Climate Change is a global crisis that requires urgent and coordinated actions from all sectors of the society as it poses a significant threat to the planet and its inhabitants.

Speaking on the goal of team he said they were to enable effective reporting of greenhouse gas emission reduction actions in all sectors of the State economy, adding that they are to make a real and lasting impact on reducing our carbon footprint and mitigating the effects of climate change.

Furthermore, the Hon Commissioner said that it is hoped that the team which comprises of experts from different Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) will be engaged in the Ministry’s quest to carry out a comprehensive greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory in the state and ultimately set up an emission reduction target for the State.

He said he was optimistic that the climate change team would play a crucial role in shaping the State’s response to climate change.

Jamani said the inauguration of the team was in line with the MORE agenda of the State Governor, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori in prioritizing environmental sustainability and awakening the consciousness of communities to the realities of Climate change.

In appreciation, the Chairman of the team, Mrs Briggs Vivian called for the cooperation of the team to achieve the purpose of reporting Green House Gas emission reduction efforts in the State to the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC).

She emphasized that the reporting must be transparent, accurate, complete, consistent and comparable (TACCC).

Highlight of the event was the inaugural lecture on the Importance of reducing carbon footprint emissions at the individual and sub national level, by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Mrs Mininim Oseji.

Present at the inauguration were the Directors in the Ministry.

Those inaugurated were, the Chairman, Mrs Briggs Vivian, Director of Climate Change Ministry of Environment; while members of the team were Ubogu Samson, Deputy Director ( Electrical) Ministry of Energy; Uyeh Judith E, Chief Fisheries Officer Ministry of Agriculture; Okonicha Tochukwu, Assistant Chief Scientific Officer, Ministry of Water Resources , Imoniero Goodluck, Assistant Chief Environmental Health Officer, Ministry of Health; Akpokere Isreal , Deputy Director Education, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education; Gagiyovwe Roli Deputy Director(Admin) Ministry of Oil and Gas; Edareno Tracy Mary, Administrative Officer 11, Ministry of Economic Planning; Godbless Edjereki, Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, Ministry of Women Affairs; TpI. Okore Godwin, Director Ministry of Urban Renewal; Mr Anthony Efianya, Principal Admin. Officer, SEMA; Okpubuluku E.O, Senior Admin. Officer Ministry of Transport; Maduemezia Chinedu, Chief Clerical Officer SDG Office; Ogirisen Felix , Deputy Director Climate Change, Ministry of Environment – Secretary

Celebrating Leadership and Legacy: Hon. Chief Ezenyili Kelvin Obi Celebrates HRM Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge

By
Hill Nigeria
-

The Executive Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Area Council, Hon. Chief Ezenyili Kelvin Obi (EKO) PhD, extends heartfelt congratulations to His Royal Majesty, the Asagba of Ahaba, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge SAN, OON, FNAILS, KSG, on the occasion of his birth anniversary. This celebration is not just a mark of another year in the life of a distinguished leader, but a tribute to a legacy of service, wisdom, and commitment to the development of the community.

HRM Prof. Azinge has been an exemplary figure in the region, known for his contributions to both academia and community leadership. His insights have played a crucial role in fostering peace, unity, and progress in Ahaba and beyond. As a SAN and a respected academic, his influence transcends traditional leadership boundaries, inspiring generations to strive for excellence and integrity.

In his message, Hon. Chief Ezenyili expresses gratitude for the guidance and support that HRM Azinge has extended to local government initiatives. He highlights the importance of celebrating leaders who dedicate their lives to the betterment of society. As the community gathers to honor the Asagba, it is a reminder of the impactful role that such leadership plays in our lives.

As we celebrate the remarkable journey of HRM Prof. Azinge, we reflect on his achievements and look forward to his continued guidance in the years to come.

~Odih Christian Udoka {OCU} For the Executive Chairman Oshimili South

Woman Bagged Five Years Jail Term In Delta For Attempted Murder

By
Hill Nigeria
-

By Onoriode Etatsemi.

High Court of Justice in Delta State presided over by Hon. Justice Diai Christopher Dumebi has convicted and sentenced one Ifeoma Nlemuba to five years terms of imprisonment in a charge No DTHC/ASB/(CR) 2024. Delta State versus Ifeoma Nlemuba for attempted murder.

The defendant Ifeoma Nlemuba was arraigned before High Court 6, in the Asaba Judicial Division on a one count charge of attempted murder where she had earlier pleaded not guilty to the charge preferred against her.

On the 23rd day of July 2024, the defense counsel wrote a (plea Bargain ) application letter to the Honourable Attorney–General and Commissioner for Justice in order to enter into a plea Bargain negotiations with the prosecution in line with the guide line 15(1) (2) of the Plea Bargain Guidelines for prosecution in Delta State 2024 which was approved by the Honourable Attorney–General and Commissioner for Justice.

The defendant Ifeoma Nlemuba in accordance with Guideline 20 (3) (a) of the Plea Bargain Guidelines for prosecutors in Delta State,2024, the defendant, later pleaded guilty to the one count charge of attempt to murder on the 5th day of November, 2024.

Pursuant to Guidelines 23(a) of the Plea Bargain Guidelines for Prosecutors in Delta State 2024, the prosecution led by A.P. Popo Esq. Deputy Director in the Ministry of Justice Asaba, filed the signed Plea Bargain Agreement which proposed five years sentence inclusive of the period already spent in custody by the defendant.

Honourable Justice Diai Christopher Dumebi upheld the proposed Plea Bargain Agreement and consequently convicted and sentenced the defendant Ifeoma Nlemuba to five years imprisonment inclusive of the period already spent in custody.

The Court also ordered that the defendant be given necessary medical attention while in custody.

The Prosecution counsel A.P. Popo applauded the judgement of the Honourable Justice Diai, affirming that this development will lead to speedy dispensation of Justice in the state as it will reduce the work load, and save time of all those involved in litigation.

She encourages lawyers in the state to key into the Plea Bargain Agreement in line with section 21 of the Administration of the criminal justice Law in the State.

By this Judgement, the Ministry of Justice Delta State reached a significant milestone in the timely administration of justice by concluding a criminal case within 6 months of it’s filing.

It could be noted that this plea bargain judgement was the first in Delta State which according to section 219 of the administration of criminal justice law will reduce the number of cases and time spent in prosecution.

Environmental Safety, Oborevwori’s Priority-Asiuwhu

By
Hill Nigeria
-

… As Environmental Task Force Discovers Danger Zone At Koka

The Chairman of Environmental Taskforce Committee, Chief Godspower Asiuwhu has reiterated the state governor, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment towards a safe and clean environment for all Deltans.

Asiuwhu made this known while speaking with Journalists shortly after the raid of illegal roadside traders and destitute residing under the Koka flyover bridge in Asaba, Delta State capital.

He said the state government will not rest on its oars in combating any illegality on environmental laws, adding that the state environmental task force will not leave any stone unturned in achieving a clean Delta State.

He disclosed to the Press that his team was able to discover some hard drugs, abandoned by the miscreants and some drug dealers at a hideout around Koka axis.

Responding to questions on government plans towards ensuring that Koka interchange is used to generate funds for the state government, Asiuwhu said plans were ongoing to ensure that the environment has a facelift, adding that in no distant time Deltans will see experience the new changes in the environment.

Speaking, the Executive Assistant on Beautification, Chief Emmanuel Erezi said the exercise would be consistent, as they will continue to raid the environment until they achieve their result.

Erezi urged Deltans not to use take advantage of the hard economy to create problems for the government, as the taxpayers’ money cannot be used to take care of other people’s foolishness.

The Supervisory Council of the Oshimili South Local Government, Hon. Dim Sylvester Dikedi, called on all Deltans to see a clean environment as their responsibility.

Hon. Dikedi said the Local government and the environment taskforce committee will not relent until the state gets cleaner.

Some of the places raided were the Iyanga market, Kwale park, the Koka Interchange and its environs and also the Cenotaph.

The exercise witnessed the presence of trucks used in lifting of illegal waste and the massive presence of security agency who assisted the marshals in apprehending violators of the environmental law.

NCPC Boss Declares Nigeria Is Undergoing Restoration

By
Hill Nigeria
-

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has declared that Nigeria is passing through a period of restoration. He made this statement while hosting the Executive members of the Women Wing of Christian Council of Nigeria FCT Chapter in Abuja.

“We are passing through a restoration period in Nigeria, we are going to be restored… Very soon you will see the true dividend of democracy,” Bishop Adegbite said, urging the Christian women to continue praying for President Bola Tinubu, who he believes is determined to lift the country to a higher pedestal.

Bishop Adegbite also enjoined the Christian women to always uphold the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, in prayer, describing her as “The Esther of our time, virtuous woman, very dogged servant of God”.

Bishop Adegbite thanked the Christian women for their visit, acknowledging the significant role women play in all aspects of life, including the ministry of Jesus Christ. He assured them of his commitment to serving the church and facilitating cleansing and restoration.

The Chairperson of the Women Wing of Christian Council of Nigeria, FCT Chapter, Lady Adesola Omoware, thanked Bishop Adegbite for his warm reception and pledged the group’s unwavering support for his vision and mission. She acknowledged Bishop Adegbite’s close relationship with the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as a testament to his love and respect for women.

Delta EXCO Approves N936 Billion Proposed Budget For 2025

By
Hill Nigeria
-

Delta State Executive Council, (EXCO), has approved a proposed budget of N936 billion for the 2025 fiscal year.

Briefing newsmen after the Exco meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr Sonny Ekedayen, said the proposed budget comprised N587.4 billion, representing 62.75 percent for Capital Expenditure, while N348.7 billion, representing 37.25 percent, is for recurrent expenditure.

Ekadeyan, who was flanked by Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza, and his counterparts in Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), Mr Charles Aniagwu and Riverine Infrastructure, Hon. Ebikeme Clark, said the 2025 proposed budget was premised on an exchange rate of N1,300 per dollar.

He said: “The budget size is N936,078,818,719 billion, broken down into capital and recurrent components of N587,361,060,084 billion capital, representing 62.75 per cent, while the recurrent component is N348,717,758,635 billion, representing 37.25 per cent.

“This budget reflects our commitment to key sectors with a balanced approach between recurrent and capital expenditures.

“This 2025 proposal is 29.12% larger than the current year’s budget, demonstrating our dedication to advancing the state’s development.

“Our focus areas remain clear: agriculture; support for micro, small, and medium enterprises; youth empowerment; tourism; entertainment; social safety nets through poverty alleviation; physical infrastructure; healthcare; and education.

“While this provides an overview of the proposed budget, it is still subject to review and will be officially transmitted to the State House of Assembly for further deliberation.”

Ekedayen who remarked that the Oborevwori’s administration is anchored on transparency and accountability, added that the 2025 budget will be 100% organically funded without any borrowing.

“A significant portion of the funding will come from the Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) allocations, with our internally generated revenue serving as the secondary source.

“To give a clearer perspective, we anticipate that our Internally Generated Revenue will reach at least N140 billion.

“For the 2025 project proposals, this combination of Federal allocation and internally generated revenue will be the primary sources of funding.”

Also speaking, Commissioner for Information, Dr Ifeanyi Osuoza, said “Exco approved a range of impactful projects that aim to benefit communities across the State.

“With the two-year anniversary on the horizon, the Council emphasized the importance of future-oriented planning.

“Accordingly, all heads of Ministries, Commissioners, and Permanent Secretaries have been directed to ensure rigorous oversight of their respective projects, with a strict mandate for high standards. There is absolutely no tolerance for substandard or incomplete work.

“The Council also confirmed key appointments, including the appointment of HRM, Dr. Greg N. Oputa, as the Obi of Aboh in Ndokwa East, and Professor Epiphany Azinge, SAN, as the Asagba of Asaba Kingdom in Oshimili South Local government area.”

He added that several infrastructure projects were also approved, covering critical areas including Rehabilitation of Ugwhrughelli/Ehidi road and construction of chief Lyn Ivie Akporiche street, Ughelli North LGA and Amechi Aguisi street in Asaba.

“We also approved the construction of oil road/ old Okpe road in Jeddo Okpe Local Government. Exco also approved the construction of Ejeba road extention/Jelink road and the extention/Olomoro road in Isoko South Local Government.”

Commissioner for Works, Rural and Riverine Roads, Mr Charles Aniagwu, disclosed that Exco directed that contractors whose projects had lasted for more than one year without mobilising to site, would be determined.

He said Exco approved several new roads including the reconstruction of Uzere Asaba-Ase Bridge and adjoining Road in Ndokwa East and Isoko South Local Government Areas of the state.

“Exco also approved six internal roads in Isoko South as well, as Alisimie-Owa-Nta road in Ika North East, while internal roads and drainage were also approved at NYSC Orientation Camp at Issele-Uku in Aniocha North Local Government Area.

“We also approved the construction of access road to Airforce base at Osubi Airport, Opete Road by Plantation City to Opete Waterside in Udu Local Government Area among others, Aniagwu said”.

He said the approvals were in line with Governor Oborevwori’s desire to open up the communities for businesses.

On his part, Commissioner for Riverine Infrastructure, Hon. Ebikeme Clark said Exco ratified Governor Oborevwori’s approval for the construction of Model Secondary School in Oporoza and Construction of access road to Nigeria Maritime University Okerenkoko both in Warri South-West Local Government Area of the state.

Clark said: “The Nigerian Maritime University is a Federal institution but the Governor deemed it fit to construct the road connecting the temporary site to the permanent site of the university.

“The people of riverine areas are happy with the Governor and they believe that with time he would do more for them.”

Prof. Utuama Was A Reliable, Dependable Political Figure – Oborevwori

By
Hill Nigeria
-

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Saturday, paid condolence visit to the family of the departed former Deputy Governor of the state, Professor Amos Agbe Utuama, SAN.

Speaking during the condolence visit to his Ikede Heights residence,  Udu Local Government Area of the state, Governor Oborevwori eulogised the late Professor of Law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria.

He said Prof. Utuama was a very reliable and dependable political figure whose selfless services to the state and country would be missed.

While commiserating with the family, Governor Oborevwori assured of the support of the state government towards the burial of the late elder statesman.

He said: “I received the sad news of the death of Professor Amos Agbe Utuama, SAN with a rude shock.

“When I came into office, I was aware of his health challenges and we all made efforts including the family but we cannot quest6971ion God. There is no particular time to die, death is death.

“We are here to commiserate with the people of Ughelli South and his family over his demise. My prayers and thoughts are with the family, the people of Ughelli South and Deltans.

“As a former Deputy Governor of our dear state, we have a role to play. So I am here in dual capacity as Governor of Delta State and also because we had a personal relationship.

“I want to assure you that we will stand by the family in this trying time. It is a critical time for all of us because we have lost a great political figure.

“He was very reliable and dependable, a good listener and those close to him can testify to these great traits.

“We will not leave you people alone at this time and once again we commiserate with the family and may God grant his soul eternal rest.”

Responding on behalf of the family, daughter of the deceased, Barr. Fejiro Smooth, thanked Governor Oborevwori for his support in ensuring that their late patriarch got good treatment before his demise.

“Your Excellency, we are deeply grateful for your support. As you mentioned, it has been a very challenging time for our family, especially following the loss of our mother.

“Despite all efforts, we lost my father last week. Your Excellency, we extend our heartfelt thanks for easing our burden. Your approval for him to seek medical care, along with your financial and emotional support, truly helped us during this difficult period.

“We find comfort in knowing we were not alone. Delta State Government’s support enabled us to do everything possible to keep him with us as long as we could.

“On behalf of our family, we thank you profoundly, Your Excellency. We are also grateful to all state officials here, and to everyone who prayed, supported, and stood by us. May God also meet you at your points of need.

“Your Excellency, your continued support, as you have assured, means everything to us. We appreciate your presence here today and everything you have done, and we trust in all that you will do as we prepare for the burial.”

PRESS UNIT,
GOVT.HOUSE, ASABA

Tompolo Condoles President Tinubu, Nigeria Army Over Demise Of Late Chief Of Army Staff

By
Hill Nigeria
-

The Chairman of TANTITA Security Nigeria Limited, High Chief Dr Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo The Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation has condoled with President Bola Tinubu as well as the Nigeria Army over the death of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.

Chief Ekpemupolo in his condolences to President Tinubu and the family of late Gen. Lagbaja, said they are indeed touched in the sad story of the demised beloved General, who contributed so much to the security of the country and external aggressions, adding that his support and corporation in the security of oil and gas assets in the Niger Delta region is known to industry players and so many persons.

The TANTITA Security Services Chairman, described Gen. Lagbaja as a well distinguished Army Officer who discharged his duties with courage and professional expertise in protecting the country from external aggressions as well as protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

It would be recalled that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, passed away on Tuesday November 5, in Lagos after a period of illness.

High Chief Dr Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo who is also The Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited a leading security firm securing the country’s critical oil and gas infrastructure facilities in his condolence terse realised stated thus:

“Condolence Message to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Nigerian Military, the Nigerian Army and the family of the Chief of Army Staff, late Lt.General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.

“We are indeed touched in this sad story of the demised of our beloved General, who contributed so much to the security of the country and external aggressions. His support and corporation in the security of oil and gas assets in the Niger Delta region is known to industry players and so many persons.

“We missed him. May the good Lord give President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Nigerian Military, the Nigerian Army and the family the strength and fortitude to bear the lost.He stated.

 

1...181920...141Page 19 of 141

MOST READ

LATEST STORIES

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

© 2022 - The Hill Nigeria