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Pressure Group Calls On Benin – Owena River Basins Development Authority To Expedite Work In Asaba

Delta North Initiative For Equity, Justice And Good Governance has watched with dismay, disbelief, and consantination the unacceptable barricade of the premises of the Benin Owena River Basin Development Authority in Benin by a gang of protesters claiming to represent the Bini ethnic nationality in Edo State and equally claiming to be acting with the permission of the Oba of Benin.

In a press release made available to journalists and was signed by Mathias Aghalor , Barrister Anthony Ossai,Secretary ,Chief Kenechukwu Monyei,

Publicity Secretary .

This madness has been on for about a week now, and neither the Nigeria Police nor other relevant authorities have called the protesters to order.

The protesters bearing all manners of placards are erroneously demanding as Host Community to the Agency Head Office, that the appointment of the Managing Director of the Agency be made to their son who from our checks is a staff of the Agency.

This demand is even without recourse to the fact that the immediate past Managing Director of this same Agency, who has just finished his two term tenure of Eight (8) years is from the same Edo State.

Moreover, Edo State has equally occupied the office of Managing Director of the Agency for FIVE (5) TIMES since the formation of the Agency. This is far more than any of the other member states of the Agency.

For the benefit of doubt, it is pertinent to inform the Bini protesters and the general public that the Benin Owena River Basin Development Authority BORBDA is composed of the following Four States – Edo, Ondo, Ekiti and Delta respectively.

Any attempt, therefore, to covet the fortunes of the Agency by this Bini ethnic protesters of Edo State will be vehemently resisted by this body as representing the Agency catchment area in Delta State.

We call on the Hon. Dr. Femi Adekanbi led newly Appointed Management of this Agency to resume duties, without let or hindrance at the Agency’s Asaba, Delta State office if this mortely crowd of Bini ethnic protesters remain adamant to reasons of equity, good conscience and peaceful neighbourliness,

The Delta North Initiative For Equity, Justice And Good Governance, call on the Ministry of Water Resources as the Coordinating Ministry of the nation’s River Basins Development Authorities, the Security Agencies to immediately restore order and conducive working environment in the Benin BORBDA office or in the alternative direct all Staff of the Agency to resume work at the Agency’s nearby Delta State Office in Asaba, Delta State.

 

FOR THE RECORDS, the Managing Directors that have served the BORBDA are as follows :

1) Prince I. A. Eweka( Edo State) 1977-1982

2) Mr Tukur Ahmed (Kaduna State) 1982-1984

(3)Chief J. F. O. Jegede (Ekiti State) 1985-1986

4) Chief E. C. Olumese (Edo State) 1986-1989

5) Engr C. O. Adegbilero (Ondo State) 1989-1990

6) Dr . G. E. Oteze (Edo State) 1990-1999

7) Mr I. R. Emefiene (Delta State) 1999-2005

8) Engr A. C. Ijasan (Ekiti State) 2005-2009

(9)Mr C.I. Okpaleke (Imo State) 2009-2011

10) Mr A. A. Osula (Edo State) January 2011

11) Engr A. L. Ijasan (Ekiti State) 2011-2013

12) Mr E. O. Mafayeyomi (Ondo State) 2013-2016

13) Engr S. O. Ahmed (Edo State) 2016-2024

The above record shows that Edo State has occupied the position of Managing Director 5 times, Ekiti State, 3 times

Ondo State, 2 times

Delta State once (1 time )

If there is any group from the BORBDA catchment areas to protest, it is obviously NOT THE BINI OR EDO STATE. This madness must stop or be stopped.

2027: Shun APC e-Registration, NYA Tells Nigerian Youth

…Says APC has nothing to offer apart from hunger, hardship

….NYA targets registering 50m members nationwide

Ahead of its planned e-Registration of members nationwide targeted at the 2027 general elections, the National Youth Alliance (NYA) has advised Nigerian youth to shun joining the All Progressives Congress (APC), following what it described as its abysmal performance in its almost 10 years in power.

NYA President, Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas expressed this in a statement, signed by his SA Media and Publicity, Okpani Jacob Onjewu Dickson, made available to newsmen in Kaduna on Thursday February 13, 2025.

“Nigerians have strongly criticized the APC’s decision to sign an agreement for a nationwide membership e-registration exercise, with many expressing negative reactions on social media.

“Given the damage caused by the APC in areas such as security and the economy, particularly during the current administration, many Nigerians believe that such a registration should be boycotted, as the APC has nothing more to offer apart from hunger, hardship, insecurity, and the untimely death of Nigerian citizens,” the statement said.

Consequently, the National Youth Alliance (NYA) urged its members, who have been advocating for an e-registration platform, to exercise patience.

“The NYA is currently working hard to develop a more advanced digital solution aimed at registering between 20 to 50 million active voters, the majority of whom will be youth and women.

“These individuals will form a powerful opposition ahead of the 2027 elections. This will be the strongest support base for the imminent opposition coalition that will remove the APC from power.

“NYA’s vision is to empower the Nigeria youth to take an active role in the political landscape, ensuring that their voices are heard and their votes are not only counted but respected. For far too long, Nigerians have been shortchanged.

“The NYA envisions a future where the youth and women are no longer sidelined in national decision-making. Our organization seeks to bridge the gap between young Nigerians and governance, creating avenues for them to participate fully in shaping the direction of the country. By mobilizing millions of young Nigerians, NYA aims to create a force that cannot be ignored in the 2027 elections,” the statement said.

Ambassador Aliyu Bin Abbas who is the National Chairman and Youth President of NYA, explained that this movement is not just about voting; “it’s about creating a sustainable platform that enables young people to demand accountability, transparency, and good governance from elected officials and government institutions in general. Let the right thing be done.

“That’s all we’re advocating for. Let the candidates the people voted for be declared winners, irrespective of their political parties. The subversion of people’s mandates by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in itself is treasonable. Nigerian youths cannot take it anymore. 2027 will mark the end of this treasonable felony against the Nigerian people.

“The NYA is mobilizing dedicated supporters who will not only vote to remove the Tinubu-led government but will also defend their votes under any circumstance, ensuring that their voices are heard and their votes count. INEC should be cautious moving forward, as Nigerians have endured enough suffering under the current administration. Any attempt to undermine the will of the people in 2027 will meet strong resistance, potentially leading to widespread unrest and a total breakdown of law and order. INEC, be warned! Don’t burn down this country to ashes because of financial inducement by corrupt politicians. Take a cue from your counterparts in other countries and save yourselves the shame.

“However, NYA’s vision includes the creation of an environment where young Nigerians are equipped with the tools and knowledge to engage in politics and governance effectively. Through educational programs, digital campaigns, and grassroots mobilization, NYA is working to ensure that the next generation of leaders is well-prepared to take on leadership roles, not just as passive participants but as active agents of change. We will soon be launching our zonal town-hall meetings, our “Nigeria First” political education programs and “Clean-up Nigeria Exercise” grassroots mobilization programs across the nation.

“In addition, NYA will soon inaugurate our Legal Advisers from the National to state levels, to lead the legal battles, challenging the status quo and ensuring the collective interest of Nigerian citizens are protected ahead of 2027. This current administration is notorious for human rights abuses and clamping down on dissenting voices. Nigerian youths refuse to be intimidated. We must keep speaking up for the oppressed. If Nigerians resisted the military and sent them packing in 1999, sacking APC oppressive regime in 2027 is 100% achievable.

“Nigerians have reached their limit. While we are a peace-loving people, all we ask for is fairness. We seek peace in the 2027 elections, but if the ruling party and INEC believe they can do whatever they like without consequences, they will have themselves to blame. We demand a free and fair election with an equal playing field for all candidates and political parties. Nigerian youths are determined that their votes must count this time. The NYA stands firm in its commitment to building a better future, where young people are at the forefront of change, driving progress, and contributing to a brighter and more prosperous Nigeria.

“NYA… Birthing A New Nigeria,” the statement said..

College of Executive Assistants Passes Vote Of Confidence of Oborevwori

In recognition of the excellent milestones recorded by the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori in the past two years, the College of Executive Assistants (EAS) has passed a vote of confidence on the governor and pledged overwhelming support towards his reelection in 2027.

This was made known to journalist during a meeting convened by the Chairman, Hon. Taju Isichei at government house in Asaba.

The appointees all commended the development of social infrastructure and human empowerment across the three senatorial districts,

They commended the governor for his efforts in the leadership of the state so far exemplified by the provision of gigantic projects across the three senatorial districts of the state, payment of pension arrears to Delta civil servants at the state and local government levels, prompt payment of worker’s salaries and entitlements, and human capital development resulting in the empowerment of thousands of Deltans.

Isichei thanked the governor, for his magnanimous discretion in the appointment of the Executive Assistants (EAs) who are strategic stakeholders in the implementation of his laudable M.O.R.E Agenda.

He urged all appointees to always provide useful insights that would help the government to initiate socially-beneficial projects for the people and appealed for oneness and harmony among all appointees at all times.

The Chairman charged all to be in the frontline of highlighting the goodwill of the Oborevwori administration while discouraging all malicious tendencies of opposition elements, through proactive engagements.

In a communique signed by the Chairman; his Secretary, Chief Duncan Ehwere; the Public Relation Officer, Pastor Powell Tos; Welfare officer, Hon. Nkechi Enumah-Chukura; and the Media officer Comrade Norbert Chiazor and issued to Journalists, it was resolved that every EA continues to stand as ambassador of the governor in his of her Local Government Area for resounding success of all government policies and programmes, designed for the betterment of Deltans and other residents.

It also stated that all Executive Assistants should work together to power the M.O.R.E Agenda development policy thrust as envisioned by their Principal Authority, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

It also congratulated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on his meritorious award of the prestigious and Influential THISDAY/ARISE TV awards as GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR AWARD

Be Good Ambassadors of NYSC, Kwaghe Tells Corp Members

The State Coordinator of NYSC, Delta State, Mr. John Vandi Kwaghe, has advised corps members in the state to translate their commitment during their orientation into remarkable achievements in their service.

Kwaghe gave the advise during the terminal parade/closing ceremony of the 2024 Batch “C” stream II orientation course at the NYSC permanent orientation camp in Issele-Uku, Aniocha North Local Government Area.

He urged them as ambassadors of the NYSC scheme and vanguards of patriotism, loyalty, and selfless service to remember the lessons they have learnt during their orientation.

While thanking God for the successful completion of this orientation course, he said the corps members had participated in rigorous mental and physical training, which he said will prepare them for the tasks of national service.

The State Coordinator said they have also been exposed to interventionist programmes such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) awareness campaign, and the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programmes.

He admonished them to apply the leadership skills they have acquired, tackle challenges with maturity and wisdom and strive to make a positive impact in their host communities.

Kwaghe urged them to be law- abiding citizens, uphold the values of unity, peace, and progress shun all forms of negative behaviour, including unauthorized journeys, which have unfortunately led to avoidable tragedies.

The State Cordinator while commending the Governor, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for his support towards the scheme assured him of the NYSC loyalty and commitment to supporting government policies and also thanked the camp officials; NYSC staff and our collaborating agencies for their tireless efforts.

He urged community leaders and corps employers to continue providing a peaceful and supportive environment for Corps Members to render meaningful service. Please treat them as your own children, offering protection, modest accommodation, and welfare incentives to enable them to perform their duties effectively, and make the service year worthwhile.

The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Barr. Harry Trakiriowei charged them to be an epitome of a true Nigerian, willing and able to show good conduct in everything they do by leaving an indelible records of inspiring others to be committed to national ethos.

Oborevwori urged them to contribute meaningfully to the development and transformation of the rural communities, embark on projects that address the immediate needs of the people and approach your service with zeal, commitment, patience love and empathy.

He said as a government their welfare needs will be continually met adding that there will be recognition and reward for outstanding corps members who distinguish themselves during the service year.

He urged them to emulate the exemplary and selfless conduct of their predecessors and remember that nation-building was not without its challenges as it requires sacrifices, honesty, dedication, faith and determination.

Delta Community Newspaper Publishers Pass Vote of Implicit Confidence In Gov. Oborevwori

Members of the body of community newspaper publishers in Delta State, have passed a vote of implicit confidence in the State Governor, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, commending him on his trajectory leadership that has continued to bring transformation across the State.

The motion which was moved by the publisher of Anioma Trust Newspapers, Comrade Patrick Ochei, highlighting the prudent management of the State’s resources, infrastructural transformation of Warri as a commercial hub of the State, consolidation of ongoing projects from the previous administration and most significantly, the equal budgetary allocation of #2 billion for special projects to all 25 local government areas in the State and more, was seconded by the publisher of National Trumpet Newspapers, Prince Charles Umejei.

Rising from the extra ordinary meeting called by the two existing Chairmen, Elder (Dr) Dike Awana, publisher of the Frontline Newspapers and Mr. Ike Abiagom, publisher of the Newsbreeze Newspapers, with the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Newspapers, Comrade Prince Joseph Orhomonokpaye as an invited guest, the forum also congratulated the Governor on his worthy and well deserved award of the Most Performing Governor of the Year by Thisday Newspapers and Arise TV.

In an unanimous agreement, the publishers as purveyors of information to the grassroots, affirmed their implicit confidence in the Governor to continue to show leadership that is beneficial to all Deltans, irrespective of their ethnic or political affiliations.

Ejinyere Reads Riot Act To WUEDA Staff On Hard Work, Competence, Professionalism , Dedication To Duty- towards achieving Governor Oborevwori’s More Agenda for Oil City

By WUEDA Media

The Director General of Warri, Uvwie and Environs Special Area Devt Agency, (WUEDA),  Hon. Prince Godwin Ejinyere has charged workers in the Agency to shun all forms of indiscipline in the workplace to avoid unpleasant consequences. The WUEDA DG gave the charge on Tuesday at an extraordinary general meeting with the Agency’s staff, where issues that affected productivity were raised and discussed.

While frowning at habitual lateness to work, absenteeism without permission, and other forms of gross indiscipline, the WUEDA DG charged the Director of Admin and Finance, Mr. Simon Esi, his Project and Works counterpart, Engr. Ofoeyenor Bemigho, and other principal officers of the Agency to up their games and discipline every un-serious staff in their departments to serve as a deterrent to others.

He said the charge was in line with the Governor’s desire for a productive and disciplined Civil Service in the State. The DG hinted that the Governor recently met with the heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, raising a red flag and urging them to be serious with their jobs and ensure discipline in their various offices.

Hon. Prince Ejinyere considered the claim by one engineer that he was allegedly sidelined by his head of department, as an unacceptable excuse for poor performance, warning him to sit up or risk demotion to the rank of a technical officer. The affected engineer and two other defaulters, pleaded for leniency, and promised to be dedicated to work going forward.

Citing an architect in the Agency as an example, Prince Ejinyere warned all WUEDA staff against working elsewhere while still working in the Agency, stressing that “the Civil Service forbids such a fraudulent act,” and that any offender in that regard would be sanctioned according to Civil Service rules.

While commending some WUEDA staff for their diligence and dedication to duty, the DG promised that such workers would be rewarded in due course. He said he would not allow lazy and lousy staff to draw the Agency backwards, as the Agency was already in the good books of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

He advised WUEDA staff to work together in love, unity, effective communication with their various heads of departments, as well as mutual respect for one another towards achieving sustainable productivity. He commended some workers for the spirit of friendship among them, advising others to emulate same.

He charged every staff to man his or her duty post effectively and efficiently, urging them to be ready for emergencies at all times. He advised all department heads to attend to official files promptly, describing delay as an enemy of organizational progress.

On the need for effective project supervision, Prince Ejinyere, an engineer, told WUEDA’s team of engineers to avoid assumptions when scoping a project to forestall costly errors. He said supervision of projects must be done diligently in line with specifications in the Bill of Quantity, so as to deliver quality projects. He warned that WUEDA would not compromise on standards, so he also would not tolerate or allow indiscriminate issue of certificates, by any engineer of the Agency to contractors for unfinished or shoddy jobs.”

He said “whistle blowers are now everywhere in Delta State, so I advise you to be cautious at all times to avoid being sanctioned.” Prince Ejinyere said in order to maximize the gains of organizational communication, he would henceforth hold unscheduled periodic operational meetings with heads of departments in the Agency with a view to identifying the needs of their various departments for prompt attention.

During the meeting, the Director of Admin and Finance, Mr. Simon Esi officially introduced officers newly posted to the Agency, and the DG warmly welcomed them with a charge on them to key into the More Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for WUEDA’s mandate area.

One Needs Property Limited Pays Common Entrance Exam Fees For All Primary Schools In Oshimili North LGA

By Ajuwa Victor

The true worth of a man is the way he treats people who are absolutely in need. If you care about people in need, you are actually making a contribution to the development of the nation. We need to give life back to the people. We need to see how we can use the available resources for everybody; create opportunities for all and care especially for those who are truly in need. The gap between the rich and the poor should be bridged. Those of us blessed with material resources need to share with others. We must strike a balance with our resources.” This is the Philosophy of Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma the CEO,One Needs Group of Companies.

Real Estate Company popularly known as One Needs Properties,has paid the 2025 Primary School Leaving Certificate Examination (Primary Six Exams) registration fees for all the primary school students in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.

One Needs Properties paid the fees for over 1,500 candidates for the forthcoming examination for the various schools.

The philanthropist and Chairman of One Needs Properties Limited,Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma who made the good gesture during a visit to the school, said the move is a personal commitment for him to empower the next generation as well as contribute to the educational development of Delta State.

Otoma expressed that he is passionate about creating opportunities for young people to excel academically and unlock their full potential.

“Education is the foundation for a brighter future, and I believe every child deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams, regardless of financial constraints.

“With this in mind, I paid the first School Leaving Certificate Examination fees for over 1,500 students for all the primary School in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.

“This is my heartfelt commitment to empowering the next generation and contributing to the educational development of our dear Oshimili North Local Government Area.

“I am passionate about creating opportunities for young people to excel academically and unlock their full potential.

“To me, these students represent the hope and future of Delta, and I am honoured to play a part in their journey toward success,” he stated.

He said his compassionate gesture aims to support underprivileged students, ensuring they have access to quality education and a brighter future and urged the beneficiaries to view the support as a motivation to excel in the examination, giving their utmost effort to achieve academic success.

Otoma urged well-meaning Deltans to “keep investing in our youth and help them achieve greatness and call on corporate organizations and individuals to give back to the society.

“I thank the schools’ management and staff for their hard work and urge the beneficiaries to study diligently, excel in their examinations, and inspire us to do more.

In their separate remarks, the Chairman of Association of Primary School Heads of Nigeria (AOPSHON),Comrade Chima Ugochukwu Anthony and Comrade Ogoh Augustine,National Deputy President(AOPSHON)applauded One Needs Properties for this generous acts of paying Millions of Naira for all the primary school pupils in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.

They expressed their heartfelt appreciation for his kindness, acknowledging the significant impact his gesture will have on students’ education and future prospects.

“Stanley Chukwudumebi Otoma the CEO,One Needs Group of Companies has responded to pupils call,“We are grateful to One Needs Group of Companies for this kind gesture. And we extend our prayers to Otoma on behalf of our students and parents for this kind gesture. And we know that providence will surely pay him back,” an elated Comrade Chima remarked.

Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission Celebrates One Year of Impactful Leadership

The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) celebrated the one-year anniversary of Bishop Stephen Adegbite’s leadership as Executive Secretary on February 5, 2025.

Bishop Adegbite was appointed as the fourth substantive Chief Executive of the Commission on January 4, 2024, and formally assumed office on February 5, 2024.

In his remarks during the celebration, Bishop Adegbite expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and Vice President Senator Kasim Shettima for the confidence reposed in him.

He commended the management and staff of the Commission for their unwavering support, emphasizing that teamwork is essential for progress. “A tree cannot make a forest,” he said.

Bishop Adegbite assured that the Commission will continue to prioritize Israel as the ultimate pilgrimage destination and maintain its stance on zero abscondment of pilgrims. He emphasized the importance of good conduct among pilgrims, stating that anyone traveling with the Commission must be a good ambassador of Nigeria.

The celebration featured the unveiling of a special edition of the Nigerian Pilgrim Magazine, goodwill messages from dignitaries, and the cutting of an anniversary cake.

Prominent guests, including Ambassador Dr. Simon Dolly, Senator Rev Amos Yohanna, and Pastor Timothy Ademola of the Renewed Hope Agenda, attended the event at the NCPC Corporate headquarters in Abuja.

The Observer: Edo State Governor takes Over Management Of Printing Press From Obaseki’s Consultant

Edo Government has taken over the management of the state-owned Printing Press, Nigerian Observer from the Consultant appointed by the immediate past administration, Chike Madueke-led Fountain Brook Publishing Limited.

This was to enable staff of the media house who had earlier been redeployed to the Ministry of Information to return back to their office.

The Governor, Monday Okpebholo has handed over the printing press to the management team of The Observer led by its General Manager, Sylvester Oboh.

While assuring the people of Edo State of quality news reportage, the governor who was represented by the State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Paul Ohonbam said he will ensure that the newspaper gets to the grassroots, keeping the people abreast of happenings.

“We are all excited to be here today to retrieve the printing press and strategize on training of staff on its operations. We assure Edo people of quality news,” he said

In his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of Fountain Brook Publishing Limited, Mr Chike Madueke-led, noted that the hand-over of the Observer Newspaper printing press to the Edo State Government was the right thing to do, because it is the property of the government.

“Our concern about the printing press is handling the press. It is divided into three, one is for printing flex banners; the second one is for printing calendars, and books; and the third is for printing newspapers.

Highlight of the event was the formal handover of the documents and keys to the three printing presses to the state government.

Highlighting the challenges of the printing press, the Acting General Manager of the Nigerian Observer Newspaper, Sylvester Oboh, said since November 2024, the organization had suffered many challenges, one of which was the absence of self-serving printing press.

Present at the handing over ceremony was the Chief Press Secretary to the state Governor, Mr Fred Itua, and Directors from the Ministry of Information and Communication and other top government officials.

LGSC To Train 175 Officers

The Delta State Local Government Service Commission is mounting a 3-day training workshop/seminar at the Wetland Hotel Ughelli, in Delta State.

In a circular letter signed for the Commission’s Chairman, Hon. Dcn Joseph Otirhue by the Director of the Training Department,Mrs Scholastica Bolum, says ,the Seminar shall be commencing at 9:00am on Tuesday 11th to end Thursday 13th February 2025, with the Seminar title”Place of Fiscal Responsibility In The Promotion of Fiscal Discipline For Efficient & Effective Service Delivery”.

According to the letter, 175 Personnel have been invited from the 25 Local Government Councils in the State to participate in the Seminar.
Furthermore, the letter specifies that, the 2nd in command to the Heads of Personnel Management, Heads of Works, Environment and Budget Planning Research and Statistics Departments as well as Apex Nurses, Internal Auditors with Officers in Charge of Salaries are the target audience.
The letter added that, attendance to the seminar is mandatory and participants are to be seated before 9:00am, as opening formalities shall commence immediately.

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