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Tompolo Felicitates With New NNPCL Board, Reaffirms Support For Oil Sector Reforms

Chairman, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo has congratulated the newly appointed management and board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

In a statement signed by him, he described their selection as a testament to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to excellence in the oil and gas sector.

He extended his heartfelt felicitations to the 11-member mu6board and management led by the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, and the Chairman, Ahmadu Musa Kida.

He noted that their appointments mark a pivotal moment in the restructuring and repositioning of the NNPCL to meet the nation’s energy demands.

Tompolo commended President Tinubu for his visionary leadership, stressing that the selection of seasoned professionals to lead the national oil company underscores the administration’s resolve to optimize the vast potential of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

“The challenges and opportunities before this new management and board are immense, but we are confident in their capacity to drive the ongoing transformation of the NNPCL. Under their stewardship, the President’s mandate to ramp up local refining capacity and increase Nigeria’s crude oil production to two million barrels per day in record time will be realized and even surpassed”.

Reaffirming Tantita Security Services’ commitment to securing Nigeria’s oil assets, Tompolo assured the new leadership of his company’s unwavering support in ensuring the protection and efficiency of the nation’s petroleum resources.

Tompolo stated that TSSNL, with its deep-rooted presence in the Niger Delta, remains a critical partner in safeguarding oil infrastructure and combating crude oil theft.

“As always, TSSNL stands ready to collaborate in securing and enhancing Nigeria’s oil production capabilities. We will continue to play our part in ensuring that the sector thrives for the collective benefit of all stakeholders,” he added.

While congratulating the entire leadership team, Tompolo expressed optimism that their stewardship would drive significant transformation in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

He urged them to remain focused, innovative and diligent in executing their mandate, stressing that with their expertise and the backing of key industry players, NNPCL was poised for an era of unprecedented progress.

Fubara’s chief of staff protected from arrest by court order

A significant legal intervention has occurred in Rivers State, as the High Court in Port Harcourt issued an interim injunction protecting Edison Ehie, the Chief of Staff to the suspended state governor, from potential legal action by the Nigerian Police and the Department of State Services (DSS). This ruling comes in response to allegations made by Dr. George Nwaeke, the former Head of Service, which prompted concerns that Ehie could be subjected to unwarranted arrest or interrogation. The court’s decision underscores the delicate political climate in the state and the judiciary’s role in safeguarding individuals from potential abuse of power by security agencies.

The core of Justice I.P.C. Igwe’s ruling, as detailed in Suit No: PHC/1113/CS/2025, centers around preventing the police and DSS from inviting, demanding the appearance of, harassing, intimidating, arresting, or detaining Edison Ehie. The injunction specifically addresses allegations related to the alleged arson that occurred at the Rivers State House of Assembly on October 29, 2023. The court’s order explicitly prohibits any actions by the security agencies based on statements made by Dr. George Nwaeke on or around March 27, 2025, or any subsequent related statements. This directive ensures that Ehie is protected from any potential repercussions stemming from these specific accusations.

Furthermore, the court granted Ehie permission to serve legal documents to the respective police and DSS offices in Abuja. This authorization allows Ehie to formally initiate legal proceedings against the Inspector-General of Police, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, the Nigeria Police Force, the Police Service Commission, the Director-General of the DSS, and the Rivers State DSS Director. The ruling outlines the specific addresses for these agencies, facilitating the service of the Writ of Summons and other relevant legal processes. This procedural step is crucial for Ehie to pursue his legal rights and seek redress against the actions of these security agencies. In essence, the court has established a temporary shield for Ehie, pending a full hearing on the matter, ensuring that his legal rights are protected during this period of heightened political tension.

In ensuring the efficient and legally sound delivery of crucial legal documents to the relevant authorities located outside the court’s immediate jurisdiction, the judge issued a specific directive regarding the service of the Writ of Summons and accompanying processes. Recognizing that the police and DSS headquarters are situated in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, which falls beyond the Rivers State High Court’s usual territorial reach, the court mandated that these documents be served using a “concurrent writ.” This procedural mechanism, explicitly sanctioned by Section 98 of the Sheriffs and Civil Procedures Act, allows for the service of legal documents across different jurisdictions, ensuring that all parties involved are duly notified of the proceedings. This step is vital for upholding the principles of fairness and due process, guaranteeing that the defendants are properly informed and have the opportunity to respond to the legal challenge.

Furthermore, acknowledging the need for a reliable and verifiable method of document delivery, the court granted Edison Ehie permission to serve the Writ of Summons and other relevant processes through a “substituted means,” specifically by utilizing the services of Red Star Express Courier Service. This decision reflects the court’s pragmatic approach to ensuring that the documents reach their intended recipients promptly and securely. Ehie was instructed to provide the court with evidence of both the posting and delivery of these processes, which serves as crucial documentation for the record. This ensures transparency and accountability in the delivery process, preventing any disputes regarding the service of the legal documents.

To maintain the integrity of the legal proceedings and prevent any actions that could potentially prejudice the outcome of the case, the court issued a clear directive to all parties involved. This directive mandated that all parties maintain the “status quo ante litem,” meaning the existing state of affairs as it existed on March 30, 2025, pending the hearing of the Motion on Notice for Interlocutory Injunction. This order effectively freezes the situation, preventing any unilateral actions by any party that could alter the circumstances or influence the court’s eventual decision. By preserving the status quo, the court aims to ensure that the legal proceedings are conducted on a level playing field, without any undue advantage or disadvantage to any party.

As a condition for granting the interim injunction, the court imposed a financial requirement on Edison Ehie, demanding that he provide a financial guarantee in the form of a N2 million undertaking. This financial bond serves as a form of security for the defendants, protecting them from potential financial losses or damages that could arise if Ehie’s substantive motion is ultimately deemed to be frivolous or lacking in legal merit. Essentially, this requirement acts as a safeguard, ensuring that the defendants are not unduly burdened by a baseless legal challenge. It also serves as a deterrent against frivolous litigation, promoting responsible and well-founded legal actions.

The court rescheduled the case to April 30, 2025, to address the request for an interim injunction.

President Trump asserts TikTok sale nearing completion.

Facing a looming deadline that would see TikTok banned in the United States, President Donald Trump announced that his administration was in the advanced stages of negotiating a deal to transfer ownership of the popular video-sharing app. He conveyed to reporters aboard Air Force One that they were “very close” to an agreement with a “very good group of people,” suggesting a consortium of investors was involved. While he refrained from disclosing specific names or financial details, the president emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting the need to finalize the sale before the weekend deadline to avert the imposed ban stemming from concerns over the app’s Chinese ownership and potential national security risks.

Tribunal Dismisses Accord Party’s Petition Against Edo State Governor, APC

The Edo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja, yesterday dismissed the petition filed by Accord Party against the declaration of Gov. Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as winner of the Sept. 21, 2024 governorship election.

Delivering judgment, the Justice Wilfred Kpochi-led three-member tribunal held that Accord Party and its governorship candidate, Mr Bright Enabulele made weighty allegations but failed to defend them.

The tribunal said that the petitioners failed to name a single perpetrator to substantiate their allegations of thuggery, stuffing of ballots, harassing and molesting voters.

According to the tribunal, the two petitioners were so inconsistent in their claims with allegations of non compliance with the Electoral Act 2002 and calling for nullification of the election on one hand while seeking to be declared winners on the other hand.

“On the other hand, they are seeking to be declared winners of the election they claimed to have been conducted without compliance with the Electoral Act.”

The tribunal held that there was no meaningful evidence for it to act upon to nullify the election of Okpebholo and APC and subsequently dismissed the petition in its entirety.

The tribunal thereafter affirmed the election of Okpebholo as being valid and conducted in compliance with the law.

The tribunal had earlier dismissed the petition filed by Action Alliance (AA)also challenging the declaration of Okpebholo and the APC as winners of the Edo governorship election.

The petition of AA was dismissed for being frivolous and lacking in merit.

The tribunal is currently delivering judgment in the petition filed by the Peoples Democratic Party and its governorship candidate Mr Asue Ighodalo also challenging the declaration of the APC and Okpebholo in the last Edo governorship election

Tinubu Jets Out To Paris 

President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 departed for Paris, France on a short working visit.

The President will return to Nigeria in about a fortnight, according to the Presidency.

In a video shared by the Presidency, Tinubu was seen greeting top government officials before boarding the Presidential aircraft.

Those at the airport greeting the President before his departure were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Budget and Economic Planning Minister, Atiku Bagudu, National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, among others.

An earlier statement signed by Tinubu’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, said that during the visit, the President will appraise his administration’s mid-term performance and assess key milestones.

According to him, Tinubu will also use the retreat to review the progress of ongoing reforms and engage in strategic planning ahead of his administration’s second anniversary.

President Tinubu waves as he departs for Paris for a working visit on Wednesday, April 2, 2025.

“This period of reflection will inform plans to deepen ongoing reforms and accelerate national development priorities in the coming year.

“Recent economic strides reinforce the President’s commitment to these efforts, as evidenced by the Central Bank of Nigeria reporting a significant increase in net foreign exchange reserves to $23.11 billion—a testament to the administration’s fiscal reforms since 2023 when net reserves were $3.99 billion,” Onanuga said.

He added that while away, President Tinubu will remain fully engaged with his team and continue to oversee governance activities.

Two Passengers Die in Boat Mishap

The lives of two persons have been lost in a boat mishap at Akede community in Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa.

The accident occurred on Tuesday evening when a speedboat collided with a fishing boat leading to the death of two women on board.

Confirming the incident, the spokesman for the Police in the state, DSP Musa Muhammad, said that the speedboat driver was in the police custody for questioning.

It was gathered that all the 13 passengers on board of the ill-fated speedboat were still missing.

It was learnt that the speedboat, plying Anyama-Ijaw Lobia-Foropa route in Southern Ijaw, collided with a fishing boat.

A source said that some divers were already on the water to rescue the missing passengers.

The source said the speedboat named Meeting Marine, powered by a 115 Horse Power engine, was traveling from Anyama Ijaw to Lobia and Foropa communities when it collided with a fishing boat at the Akede community waterfront.

It was also gathered that a woman and a young girl on board of the fishing boat drowned.

The Chairman of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria in Bayelsa State, Mr Ogoniba Ipigansi also confirmed the incident, saying that the union and divers were in Akede community waterfront for rescue mission.

Ipigansi confirmed the death of a woman and a young girl on board of the wooden fishing boat, saying that the 13 passengers on board of the speedboat were yet to be accounted for.

He said all the passengers of the speedboat wore life jackets, expressing hope that they may be rescued.

FELD: Empowering Small and Medium Businesses at the Grassroots

“All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.”_ – Walt Disney

Walt Disney, the legendary American filmmaker and creator of Mickey Mouse and Disney World, won an astonishing 26 Academy Awards. A visionary and relentless innovator, Disney believed that nothing was impossible. He poured his passion, skills, and energy into his dreams, achieving phenomenal success. Yet, beyond his personal accomplishments, he also helped many others succeed, driven by his generosity and love for humanity.

Today in Nigeria, that same spirit of courage and service thrives through the Foundation for Effective Leadership and Development (FELD) —an initiative by Hon. Paul Adingwupu. A politician and IT expert with a notable presence in Delta State politics, Adingwupu is changing lives through technical expertise, charitable donations, teamwork, volunteerism, and mentorship. FELD’s impact is felt across Aniocha South, Aniocha North, Oshimili South, and Oshimili North, touching people from all walks of life—young and old, rich and poor alike.

A Purpose-Driven Mission

What sets FELD apart is its intentionality. Every initiative aligns with its core values, mission, and vision. The foundation is dedicated to identifying and supporting those who genuinely need assistance, whether through educational empowerment or by fostering small and medium-sized enterprises.

A key pillar of FELD’s educational efforts is *My Education Quiz Play,* an initiative open to students across Nigeria, regardless of region, religion, or ethnicity. Since its launch in 2012, the program has awarded cash prizes and scholarships, making education more accessible while fostering healthy intellectual engagement. The competition’s Project Director, *Godfrey Osakwe* , describes it as an exciting yet rigorous platform rooted in Nigeria’s curriculum. The televised weekly game show provides students—both in secondary schools and higher institutions—with the opportunity to showcase their intellect and quick thinking.

“The foundation seeks to drive societal growth, knowing that education remains the bedrock of any nation,” Osakwe emphasizes. “This game helps participants secure their education through prize money in the form of scholarships.”

FELD’s Key Objectives

As an NGO, FELD, alongside My Education Quiz Play, is committed to:

Harnessing grassroots potential by providing opportunities for development.

Reorienting mindsets to drive national progress.

Supporting small and medium enterprises across different trades while engaging unemployed youth in productive ventures.

Inspiring Nigerians to become active change-makers in their communities.

Recognizing a Legacy of Impact

Hon. Adingwupu’s dedication has earned widespread recognition. In 2017, he received the *NTA Asaba Meritorious Service Award for Excellence,* acknowledging his invaluable contributions to humanity.

During his acceptance speech, he paid a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, who single-handedly supported his education after his father’s passing when he was just nine years old. Understanding firsthand the struggles many families face, he remains committed to ensuring others have access to the opportunities he once lacked.

Through FELD, *he is not just making a difference—he is building a legacy.* His story serves as an inspiring example of resilience, service, and impact, proving that true leadership is about uplifting others.

Tompolo Hails Tinubu On 73rd Birthday, Pledges Support For 2027 Re-Election

The Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his 73rd birthday, commending his leadership and pledging unwavering support for his re-election in 2027.

In a heartfelt message, Tompolo, who also holds the traditional title of Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation, described Tinubu as a unique leader whose political journey and governance have been a source of inspiration.

“Every generation creates for itself a special breed of personalities. For such enigmas, they thrive under unusual circumstances and succeed where others fail. Mr. President, you undoubtedly fit into this special breed of men with great placement,” Tompolo stated.

Reflecting on Tinubu’s decades of political contributions, Tompolo noted, “You dedicated a greater part of your youthful life to building bridges of friendship and laying foundations for national development. Your sacrifices, resilience, and determination for a just and better society have been unwavering.”

Tompolo expressed gratitude for the president’s support in the fight against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, highlighting the role of Tantita Security Services in increasing the nation’s crude oil production from 600,000 barrels per day to approximately 1.8 million barrels per day.

“To us in Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, you stand out as the most innovative figure in our nation’s political evolution. Your intervention in the oil and gas sector has significantly boosted national revenue and economic stability,” he added.

Enumerating Tinubu’s achievements, Tompolo acknowledged key initiatives such as the creation of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative, the establishment of the Students Loan Fund, and the transformation of the solid minerals sector. He also praised the administration’s infrastructural projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Highway, as well as policy reforms in tax administration and minimum wage.

“On this special day, we salute your efforts and unfading commitment to nation-building. As you continue to deploy your God-given talents in human capital development, we pray that Almighty God grants you long life, strength, and wisdom to steer this nation to greater heights,” Tompolo stated.

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, he reaffirmed his support for Tinubu’s second-term bid, declaring, “We will join other progressive-minded leaders and the good people of the Niger Delta and beyond to preach your gospel of continuity. Nothing can change our support, Sir!”

He concluded with prayers for the president’s continued success and good health, saying, “Truly, Eyin L’okan L’eekan si (It’s your turn again), Sir. Once again, Happy Birthday, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Nigeria’s beacon of hope.”

Ekpemupolo, Dangote Amongst 100 Brand Personalities For Year 2025 Peace Legend Award 

The founder of PEACE AWARDS INTERNATIONAL, Mr Jesse Osero Amiri together with a body of distinguished researchers, committed to Peace in Nigeria and Africa at large will on April 17, 2025 be celebrating the 14th edition of 100 brands and personalities who are transforming Nigeria and Africa at large

This edition will features award recognition of personalities who have distinguished themselves in different fields such as politics, business, science, arts, activism and sports.

Among those personalities to be honoured are High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo will be honoured with AFRICA LEGEND OF PEACE 2025 while a business mogul, Alhaji ALIKO DANGOTE is to receive life time ACHIEVEMENT AWARD.

Amiri in a press statement said; “Africa is the source of life, a continent rich in diversity, culture people and natural resources. It is a continent that has contributed blood, sweat and resources for the development of the world. As the cradle of civilization it supplies the rest of the world with its vast natural resources needed for industrialization.”

He noted that Africa is a continent of great minds-leaders, entrepreneurs, entertainers, activists and visionaries who have shaped history and continue to shape the future pointing out that the struggle for independence to technological innovations and economic transformation were testament to these great personalities who have left indelible marks in the continent.

According to him, Nigeria as Africa’s giant has produced some of the most influential figures in governance, business and culture and such personalities who have shaped the continent in one discipline or the other.

“Africa has produced notable names like Nelson Mandela, an Anti -apartheid revolutionary, former President and global icon of peace and reconciliation. Others are Kwame Nkrumah, a leading figure in Ghana’s independence and the African unity movement, Obafemi Awolowo, advocate of free education and one of Nigeria’s foremost thinkers, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria’s first President and key Nationalist leader. We must also mention Julius Nyerere, father of Tanzanian Independence, Paul Kagame who led Rwanda’s transformation after the 1994 genocide and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female head of state and symbol of female empowerment.”

The 14th edition of Peace Legend Award, according Amiri is not about Africa’s pioneering leaders but about the current leaders who have excelled in their different areas of human endeavors saying that the selection process has been very transparent, tasking but thorough, ensuring that the very best are selected.This award ceremony, Amiri pointed promises to be very exciting as it will bring together the crème de la crème of Africa in a setting that is not only unique but also very captivating.

He said the grand ceremony will be holding at the prestigious TRANSCORP HILTON hotel, Abuja, Nigeria, beginning by 6pm and will be hosted by ace comedian, Gordon’s D Beliconi.

Desert Warrior, Newton Jibunoh Endorses FHF Hope Unites – Walkathon/Event 2025

The renowned Desert Warrior and founder of the Fight Against Desert Encroachment (FADE), Chief (Dr) Newton Jibunoh has endorsed the Hope Unites – Walkathon and Event 2025 by Fostering Hopes Foundation.

The 87 year old international adventurist endorsed the project which is billed for April 5, 2025, with a walk from Agbor, to terminate at the Stephen Keshi Stadium Asaba, with a fundraising and entertainment event at the Main Bowl of the stadium.

On Monday the 24th of March, 2025, the Desert Warrior met with the FHF Team at his Nelson Mandela Garden and Resort Asaba, where he applauded the work done so far and assured the Team of his full participation in joining the Walkathon.

Dr. Newton Jibunoh has also accepted to chair the evening event, where he would make some speeches to counsel young people on the need to dare beyond the ordinary as well as to key into supporting family preservation and child protection.

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