I'LL USE MY INT'L CONNECTIONS & ATTRACT DEV'T TO ATAI UYO - YPP Reps Candidate, Ekemini Ukim

 

The Candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) for Uyo/Ibesikpo Asutan/Uruan/Nsit Atai Federal Constituency in the 2023 general elections, Obong Ekemini Ukim, has pledged to leverage on his contacts, connections and exposure to offer better representation to his people, especially in lifting them out of poverty, when given the mandate.

Ukim, who described the current poverty rate in Akwa Ibom as scary, said he would tackle the scourge head-on in his constituency, when elected as a member of the green chambers of the National Assembly, next year.

The philanthropist spoke penultimate week, after receiving his party's flag at a massive event held in the oil rich city of Eket.

Addressing newsmen at the sidelines of the event, Obong Ukim, who was flanked by his wife, Pharmacist Uduak, vowed to go extra mile, including reaching out to his friends in the North, East and West as well as international organizations, when elected, because he is desirous to offer better representation to his people.

He said: “I believe that, with my exposure and connections as a Special Envoy, International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), African Region HQ (Lesotho); Country Rep. International Model United Nations Africa (IMUNA); Country Rep., Youth Development Committee, West African (ECOWAS) Youth Council; to mention but a few, and my vast knowledge about the workings of the National Assembly, I will do more in the area of attracting different empowerment and development to my people because I sincerely love them.

"Again, I’m also looking at the international community, I’m sure that if we talk to them very well, a lot of them are willing to look at our case in every situation and see how they can come in.

Asked if his party had all it takes to upstage the two major dominant political parties in the State, the ruling Peoples Democratic Party and All Progressives Congress, Obong Ekemini Ukim said, his party, the YPP was the fastest growing political party in the State and has since established structures in all the 329 INEC recognized wards and polling units in the State, hinting that, Akwa Ibom people who are fed up with the PDP and APC are defecting in large number to the YPP and are ready to vote for YPP governorship candidate, Obong Bassey Albert and other candidates of the party for the National and State Assemblies elections.

His words: "Akwa Ibom people are fed up with the promise and fail leadership, so this time around, they are looking at antecedents, what you have done for them so far, with or without having an office. They will be assessing you based on: if this person is given the mandate, what can he do for us?

"In all the people jostling for governorship, for instance, who amongst them has done half of what OBA has done for Akwa Ibom people; the students, youths, women, elders, our royal fathers and so on? OBA's love for Akwa Ibom, evidenced by his antecedents stands him out as the next Governor of this State because our people know the truth. Also, in my little capacity, I know what I have done for my people by way of scholarships, payment of hospital bills, capital for our mothers in various communities to start businesses and help themselves and for the youth. So, do you think these people would abandon those who will solve myriads of their problems and go for the party that will still keep them in abject poverty? God forbid" 

The Utuenikang Ibesikpo Asutan, revealed that, when elected as the member of the 10th National Assembly, he will focus on massive poverty alleviation, education, agriculture and health.

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Buhari Sacks A'Ibom Born NDDC Sole Administrator Akwa.

 

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the disengagement of the Interim Administrator of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Effiong Okon Akwa.

In a memo signed by the Director of press, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Patricia Deworitshe, Buhari stated that the directive takes effect from today, 20th October 2022.

Akwa was appointed interim administrator of the Commission for the duration of the Forensic Audit into the operations of the

NDDC, which has now been concluded.

According to Deworitshe, Buhari has approved the constitution of a new Management Team and Governing Board of the NDDC in line with section 5(2) of the NDDC Act, 2000.

“The names of the nominees for the new management team and Governing Board are to be transmitted to the National Assembly for approval,” She added.

Meanwhile, Afe Mbono can authoritatively report that, Akwa, a Barrister, hails from Okobo local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

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UNIUYO Resumes Lectures Oct 24

 

Management of the University of Uyo, Uyo, has approved Monday, October 24, 2022, as the resumption date for the commencement of lectures and other academic activities, Afe Mbono can authoritatively report.

The date was approved by the Senate of the federal university, according to one of its top echelons who pleaded anonymity because he is not the spokesperson of the University.

By this information, all students are to return to the two campuses of the University before Monday for academic activities.

Afe Mbono had last week reported the suspension of the eight-month strike embarked upon on February 14, by the Academic Staff Union of Universities.

Our Education Correspondent gathered that, apart from the University of Uyo, other institutions who have announced their resumption dates following the suspension of the strike by ASUU include: Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Bayero University, Kano, Alex Ekweme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Federal University Owerri, among others.

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Nnamdi Kanu: FG has no reason to detain him further – Victor Umeh

 

FORMER national chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and senatorial candidate of the Labour Party (LP) for Anambra Central for the 2023 election, Chief Victor Umeh has called on the federal government to release the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu since the Court of Appeal had freed him.

The Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja had on Friday discharged Kanu, but the attorney general of the federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami said the judgement of the court did not quash other charges against him before he left Nigeria in 2017.

As a result, Kanu is still being detained by the federal government.

Speaking with reporters in Awka, Umeh said the continued detention of the IPOB leader amounted to a violation of the judgment of the Court of Appeal.

He said: “In  a sense the federal government has been given a golden opportunity to bring to an end the problem between IPOB and the federal government of Nigeria.

“When Nnamdi Kanu was brought home from Kenya last year, I was one of those who asked that the matter be given fair judicial adjudication. Along the line, through a suit instituted by Kanu, a court in Umuahia, Abia State quashed the charges against him and ordered that he should be released unconditionally.

“At that time, I suggested that government should use political solution to resolve the matter and end the security tension, but they did not heed the advice.

“Now that the Court of Appeal has dismissed the charges against him, it is trite for government to let him go because I don’t think the federal government has any further reason to continue to keep him.

“Someone who is looking for peace should know when God has given him an opening to embrace peace. This judgement by the Court of Appeal is sufficient to end all charges against Nnamdi Kanu and allow him to go. It will also help to solve the security problem in the South East.

“Every Monday there is sit at home in the South East, but if they release him now, that will disappear and we will have five working days in a week like others.

“The federal government has nothing to gain by continuing to detain Nnamdi Kanu. If you noticed, tension has already dropped following the court judgment and releasing him will not lead to any challenge any more. It is for the government to rely on this judgement to release him.

“I also remember that Igbo leaders went to solicit for the unconditional release and Prof Ben Nwabueze even went on a wheel chair with Chief Mbazulike Amaechi to ask for Kanu’s release and President Buhari said he did not want to interfere in judicial processes.

“But now that the Court of Appeal has set him free, I believe that this is a golden opportunity for Mr president to rely on this judgement to release Kanu.

“I believe that if this is done, the country will be better for it, instead of trying to increase the tension by keeping him. If they obey the judgement, everyone will be happy.”

“The recent judgement setting Kanu free was a window for the federal government to embrace peace”.

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Source: VANGUARD

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Floods: Panic as corpses float in Bayelsa, Delta cemeteries As floods continue to ravage most parts of the country, residents of Aeroplane Road in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State and Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta have raised the alarm over floating corpses from submerged cemeteries in their areas. This came as several communities in Bomadi, Patani and Burutu local government areas of Delta State were yesterday sacked by the ravaging flood, with indigenes sleeping on top of Bomadi Bridge. Our source, Vanguard reported yesterday that this year’s flood is perhaps the worst in Nigeria’s history, with over 603 dead, two million displaced and hundreds of hectares of farmlands destroyed. Raising alarm yesterday over the health implication of floating corpses in their community, residents of Yenagoa in Bayelsa called on the state government for immediate action to avoid a public health crisis. Confirming the incident, a resident, Mr Emmanuel Oden, lamented that the floating corpses had become a recurring development during floods, adding that relocation of the cemetery is long overdue. Oden further alleged that corpses at the cemetery were often buried in shallow graves of about 3 feet, rather than the recommended six feet prescribed by law. Another resident Mr Ebi Owoupele, pleaded with the Bayelsa State Government to understand the plight of the people and assure them that the cemetery will be relocated. Vanguard’s findings also revealed that the morgue at Bomadi General Hospital and Olodiama had been submerged, also with floating corpses as a result. Contacted, the state commissioner for environment and chairman of Bayelsa Flood Committee, Mr. Iselema Gbaranbiri, who confirmed that three floating corpses were recovered and reburied with the environment properly fumigated. His words, “the floating of corpses were actually reported. First, as commissioner for the environment, I got the report of a floating corpse and directed my head of health and sanitation to get the corpse reburied. Later two more corpses were recovered and reburied and the environment was properly fumigated.” Bomadi, Burutu, Patani LGAs sacked More disaster was recorded in parts of Delta State yesterday as many villages in riverine Bomadi, Patani and Burutu local government areas of the state were sacked by floods, with indigenes sleeping on Bomadi Bridge. They appealed to the state government and political leaders to come to their aid. Lamenting the situation in his community, the chairman, Bomadi federated community, Mr Seleyeibo Perekeme, said neither government nor political leaders from the area had responded to their call for help. He said: “The entire Bomadi Local Government area is submerged, with only the council secretariat still standing because of community efforts. “We’ve been able to dislodge the flood by blocking entry points with sand-filled sacks at the community waterfront through our earlier efforts. Now, the flood level has risen and we’ve been making similar efforts but we’ve run out of resources as a community. “So, we’ve been calling on our political leaders to help since Bomadi is the last community standing and victims are fleeing in from neighbouring communities, such as Kpakiama, Oboro, Esanma, Tuomo, Tubegbe, Koloware, Ogboin-ama and many others in both Burutu and Patani council areas. Many victims are fleeing from Yenagoa to Bomadi. We need N2m to save Bomadi town from submerging—Community chair “If we can get N2 million, we can buy sand and sacks and be able to block entry points along the length of the community shoreline because the youths are ready to work to save Bomadi. “But, until this moment, there’s no response from either the state government or our political leaders at a time of pains and distress as this. We are not happy because we seem to have been forgotten or abandoned,” he said. An activist and youth leader, Comrade Kenneth Mezeh, however, lauded the efforts of the community leader and appealed to both state government and political representatives to respond to the plight of victims in Bomadi local government area and environs. However, the chairman, the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Bomadi local government chapter, Apostle Liberty Usiayo, in his reaction, said: “We have been going round the council area to see the level of flood devastation on the people and property, and the situation is really pathetic. “No community is safe in the council area as all eleven communities have been ravaged, with women and children seriously affected. They need immediate food and medical attention. “It’s also appalling that until this moment, there’s no government response to the plight of victims in the council area and we, as a body, urge the state government, appropriate agencies and politicians from the area to respond to the plight of victims without further delay. Ibori seeks support for victims Reacting to the devastating effect of the flood in the state, former Delta State governor, Chief James Ibori, yesterday urged government agencies at the federal, state and local government levels to provide relief materials to flood victims across the country. While condoling with flood victims, Ibori, in a tweet on his official Twitter handle, said: “Government agencies at all levels must act promptly to provide relief to those affected by floods in our country. “The loss of lives and property caused by massive floods ravaging several states across the country as a result of the release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon must be dealt with decisively to ensure this never happens again.” Oborevwori, donates relief materials Moved by the sufferings of the people, PDP governorship candidate in Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, yesterday, donated bags of rice, yams, bags of garri, noodles, packs of bottled water, tissues, bags of salt, beans and other relief materials to victims of the ravaging flood in the state. Oborevwori, who is also speaker of the state House of Assembly, made the donations when he visited the victims at designated Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs. He was at the ICS Camp, Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area housing 1,016 IDPs and Alaka Grammar School, Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area with 1,180. Chatting with newsmen moments after the donations, Oborevwori said: “I have visited the ICS and Alaka camps and I am here at the Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro to ascertain the level of damage done by the flood. “We understand that the university has been closed for two weeks. We pray that the floods will recede soonest. There is nothing man can do because it’s a natural disaster. ‘’I will advise those who refused to come to the IDP camps to relocate to higher grounds. This is a natural disaster, so they have no choice than to relocate to higher ground. This also happened in 2012.” The All Progressives Congress, APC, candidate for the Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency in Bayelsa State, Michael Olomu, also donated items worth millions of naira to flood victims in the Sagbama Local Government Area of the state. In a statement, his media office explained that Olomu was touched by the pains of the vulnerable people, personally visited the area at weekend and donated relief materials to reduce the agony caused by the flood. Olomu also visited sick people in various hospitals in Sagbama, Bulou-Orua and the Adagbabiri communities, all in the Sagbama Local Government Area. Some of the items donated included foodstuffs such as garri, rice, noodles, salt and seasonings. Bayelsa senators, Reps call for emergency Also reacting to the situation, National Assembly members from Bayelsa State, comprising senators and members of the House of Representatives, yesterday raised alarm that the state had been completely severed from the rest of the country. The lawmakers at a briefing in Abuja yesterday, said floods had sacked many people from their homes and communities, prompting untold hardship. Speaking on behalf of the lawmakers who included Senators Henry Seriake Dickson, Biobarakumo Degi-Eremienyo, Moses Z. Cleopas, Preye Influence Goodluck Oseke, Frederick Azibapu Obua, Israel Sunny-Goli and Steve Azaiki, Frederick Yeitiemone Agbedi appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to declare Bayelsa a disaster emergency. Agbedi said: “Considering that Bayelsa State is not just the worse affected, but one that has been completely severed from the rest of the country as a result of the complete erosion across several sections of the East-West Road, it is our additional call, therefore, on Mr. President to declare a state of disaster emergency in Bayelsa State. “Similarly, we call on ministries, departments and agencies, such as the National Emergency Management Agency; National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons; and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, And Social Development for their considered, immediate intervention with medicines, foodstuffs and other relief materials.” 4,745 IDPs decline relocation from Delta communities About 4,745 displaced persons across 73 communities in Ndokwa East Local Government Area, Delta State, yesterday declined relocation from their flood-ravaged communities over the desire to secure their properties and prematurely harvested farm produce. This came as the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, assisted IDP Camp at Ashaka fully took off, with the camp registration hitting over 800 IDPs. Chairman of the local government area, Mr Juan Governor, who disclosed this, noted that from reports gathered during a zoom meeting of the NELGA 2022 Flood Management Committee, the flood had started receding in the NELGA communities, along the upper part of the River Niger and Ase Creek. He said: “Other IDPs still in all other NELGA flood-ridden communities are dwelling in clusters at the few-storey buildings in the various communities. “So far, the number of IDPs in these flooded communities who declined relocation is reportedly estimated to be 4,745 persons across 73 major communities visited by the NELGA 2022 Flood Management Committee. “We have some of our people at Ozoro and Oleh IDP camps but at present, we have not been able to ascertain the exact numbers of NELGA IDPs in these two camps due to the clustered registration which will require time to filter and establish the exact numbers of NELGA IDPs there.”

 

As floods continue to ravage most parts of the country, residents of Aeroplane Road in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State and Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta have raised the alarm over floating corpses from submerged cemeteries in their areas.

This came as several communities in Bomadi, Patani and Burutu local government areas of Delta State were yesterday sacked by the ravaging flood, with indigenes sleeping on top of Bomadi Bridge.

Our source, Vanguard reported yesterday that this year’s flood is perhaps the worst in Nigeria’s history, with over 603 dead, two million displaced and hundreds of hectares of farmlands destroyed.

Raising alarm yesterday over the health implication of floating corpses in their community, residents of Yenagoa in Bayelsa called on the state government for immediate action to avoid a public health crisis.

Confirming the incident, a resident, Mr Emmanuel Oden, lamented that the floating corpses had become a recurring development during floods, adding that relocation of the cemetery is long overdue.

Oden further alleged that corpses at the cemetery were often buried in shallow graves of about 3 feet, rather than the recommended six feet prescribed by law.

Another resident Mr Ebi Owoupele, pleaded with the Bayelsa State Government to understand the plight of the people and assure them that the cemetery will be relocated.

Vanguard’s findings also revealed that the morgue at Bomadi General Hospital and Olodiama had been submerged, also with floating corpses as a result.

Contacted, the state commissioner for environment and chairman of Bayelsa Flood Committee, Mr. Iselema Gbaranbiri, who confirmed that three floating corpses were recovered and reburied with the environment properly fumigated.

His words, “the floating of corpses were actually reported. First, as commissioner for the environment, I got the report of a floating corpse and directed my head of health and sanitation to get the corpse reburied. Later two more corpses were recovered and reburied and the environment was properly fumigated.”

Bomadi, Burutu, Patani LGAs sacked

More disaster was recorded in parts of Delta State yesterday as many villages in riverine Bomadi, Patani and Burutu local government areas of the state were sacked by floods, with indigenes sleeping on Bomadi Bridge.

They appealed to the state government and political leaders to come to their aid.

Lamenting the situation in his community, the chairman, Bomadi federated community, Mr Seleyeibo Perekeme, said neither government nor political leaders from the area had responded to their call for help.

He said: “The entire Bomadi Local Government area is submerged, with only the council secretariat still standing because of community efforts.

“We’ve been able to dislodge the flood by blocking entry points with sand-filled sacks at the community waterfront through our earlier efforts. Now, the flood level has risen and we’ve been making similar efforts but we’ve run out of resources as a community.

“So, we’ve been calling on our political leaders to help since Bomadi is the last community standing and victims are fleeing in from neighbouring communities, such as Kpakiama, Oboro, Esanma, Tuomo, Tubegbe, Koloware, Ogboin-ama and many others in both Burutu and Patani council areas. Many victims are fleeing from Yenagoa to Bomadi.

We need N2m to save Bomadi town from submerging—Community chair

“If we can get N2 million, we can buy sand and sacks and be able to block entry points along the length of the community shoreline because the youths are ready to work to save Bomadi.

“But, until this moment, there’s no response from either the state government or our political leaders at a time of pains and distress as this. We are not happy because we seem to have been forgotten or abandoned,” he said.

An activist and youth leader, Comrade Kenneth Mezeh, however, lauded the efforts of the community leader and appealed to both state government and political representatives to respond to the plight of victims in Bomadi local government area and environs.

However, the chairman, the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Bomadi local government chapter, Apostle Liberty Usiayo, in his reaction, said: “We have been going round the council area to see the level of flood devastation on the people and property, and the situation is really pathetic.

“No community is safe in the council area as all eleven communities have been ravaged, with women and children seriously affected. They need immediate food and medical attention.

“It’s also appalling that until this moment, there’s no government response to the plight of victims in the council area and we, as a body, urge the state government, appropriate agencies and politicians from the area to respond to the plight of victims without further delay.

Ibori seeks support for victims

Reacting to the devastating effect of the flood in the state, former Delta State governor, Chief James Ibori, yesterday urged government agencies at the federal, state and local government levels to provide relief materials to flood victims across the country.

While condoling with flood victims, Ibori, in a tweet on his official Twitter handle, said: “Government agencies at all levels must act promptly to provide relief to those affected by floods in our country.

“The loss of lives and property caused by massive floods ravaging several states across the country as a result of the release of water from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon must be dealt with decisively to ensure this never happens again.”

Oborevwori, donates relief materials

Moved by the sufferings of the people, PDP governorship candidate in Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, yesterday, donated bags of rice, yams, bags of garri, noodles, packs of bottled water, tissues, bags of salt, beans and other relief materials to victims of the ravaging flood in the state.

Oborevwori, who is also speaker of the state House of Assembly, made the donations when he visited the victims at designated Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs.

He was at the ICS Camp, Oleh, Isoko South Local Government Area housing 1,016 IDPs and Alaka Grammar School, Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area with 1,180.

Chatting with newsmen moments after the donations, Oborevwori said: “I have visited the ICS and Alaka camps and I am here at the Delta State University of Science and Technology, Ozoro to ascertain the level of damage done by the flood.

“We understand that the university has been closed for two weeks. We pray that the floods will recede soonest. There is nothing man can do because it’s a natural disaster.

‘’I will advise those who refused to come to the IDP camps to relocate to higher grounds. This is a natural disaster, so they have no choice than to relocate to higher ground. This also happened in 2012.”

The All Progressives Congress, APC, candidate for the Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency in Bayelsa State, Michael Olomu, also donated items worth millions of naira to flood victims in the Sagbama Local Government Area of the state.

In a statement, his media office explained that Olomu was touched by the pains of the vulnerable people, personally visited the area at weekend and donated relief materials to reduce the agony caused by the flood.

Olomu also visited sick people in various hospitals in Sagbama, Bulou-Orua and the Adagbabiri communities, all in the Sagbama Local Government Area. Some of the items donated included foodstuffs such as garri, rice, noodles, salt and seasonings.

Bayelsa senators, Reps call for emergency

Also reacting to the situation, National Assembly members from Bayelsa State, comprising senators and members of the House of Representatives, yesterday raised alarm that the state had been completely severed from the rest of the country.

The lawmakers at a briefing in Abuja yesterday, said floods had sacked many people from their homes and communities, prompting untold hardship.

Speaking on behalf of the lawmakers who included Senators Henry Seriake Dickson, Biobarakumo Degi-Eremienyo, Moses Z. Cleopas, Preye Influence Goodluck Oseke, Frederick Azibapu Obua, Israel Sunny-Goli and Steve Azaiki, Frederick Yeitiemone Agbedi appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari to declare Bayelsa a disaster emergency.

Agbedi said: “Considering that Bayelsa State is not just the worse affected, but one that has been completely severed from the rest of the country as a result of the complete erosion across several sections of the East-West Road, it is our additional call, therefore, on Mr. President to declare a state of disaster emergency in Bayelsa State.

“Similarly, we call on ministries, departments and agencies, such as the National Emergency Management Agency; National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons; and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, And Social Development for their considered, immediate intervention with medicines, foodstuffs and other relief materials.”

4,745 IDPs decline relocation from Delta communities

About  4,745  displaced persons across 73 communities in Ndokwa East Local Government Area, Delta State, yesterday declined relocation from their flood-ravaged communities over the desire to secure their properties and prematurely harvested farm produce.

This came as the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, assisted IDP Camp at Ashaka fully took off, with the camp registration hitting over 800 IDPs.

Chairman of the local government area, Mr Juan Governor, who disclosed this, noted that from reports gathered during a zoom meeting of the NELGA 2022 Flood Management Committee,  the flood had started receding in the NELGA communities, along the upper part of the River Niger and Ase Creek.

He said: “Other IDPs still in all other NELGA flood-ridden communities are dwelling in clusters at the few-storey buildings in the various communities.

“So far, the number of IDPs in these flooded communities who declined relocation is reportedly estimated to be 4,745 persons across  73 major communities visited by the NELGA 2022 Flood Management Committee.

“We have some of our people at Ozoro and Oleh IDP camps but at present, we have not been able to ascertain the exact numbers of NELGA IDPs in these two camps due to the clustered registration which will require time to filter and establish the exact numbers of NELGA IDPs there.”

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Source: VANGUARD

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7 killed in Kogi church attack, road mishap

 

TWO persons have been killed, while three others were injured as yet-to-be-ascertained gunmen attacked a Celestial Church in Felele, Lokoja, Kogi State. This came as auto crash claimed five lives in the same state.

The attack occurred late Sunday at the church premises located behind NNPC Mega station in Felele. An eyewitness said the gunmen stormed the church and started shooting sporadically.

It was further learnt that two persons died instantly, while others were wounded as several others scampered for safety.

The injured victims are currently receiving treatment at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Lokoja.

An eyewitness said: “When they entered, they started shooting at everyone outside the church. I went and hid inside a cassava farm. What I saw yesterday was like an action film. Kogi is no longer safe.”

The Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, William Aya confirmed the incident to newsmen, yesterday, saying the hoodlums invaded the church and shot at worshippers.

He said: “Two people were confirmed dead in the hospital, while three are receiving treatment.

“The Commissioner of Police has deployed our operatives and ordered the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of investigation to commence an investigation to unravel the cause of the attack to arrest the perpetrators.”

Auto crash claims 5 lives, injures 3 — FRSC

Also, no fewer than five persons died and three others were injured in an auto-crash that occurred in Kogi on Sunday, according to Mr Stephen Dawulung, Kogi Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

Dawulung, who described the incident as “very unfortunate,” told newsmen in Lokoja that the auto crash occurred at Ogbagbo junction along the Ejule-Ochadamu road at about 12.47 p.m. when a Nissan car collided with a Mazda car.

The sector commander explained that the Nissan car had lost control while trying to avoid a pothole as it veered off its lane and collided with the on-coming Mazda 323 car.

“Unfortunately, out of eight persons involved in the accident, four died instantly while four sustained serious injuries.

“Our personnel, who rushed to the scene after a distress call, rescued the four injured and rushed them to Enemona Hospital, Ejule in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi, where the fifth person died while receiving medical treatment.

“The corpses of the five dead passengers have been deposited at the morgue of the same hospital. The obstructions resulting from the crash were immediately cleared from the road by our officers to allow free flow of traffic.”

The FRSC Commander said the cause of the crash was over-speeding and bad road.

He advised motorists to maintain strict adherence to stipulated speed limits and the use of common sense speed limits by slowing down in built up areas and bad portions of the road.

While condoling families of the victims, Dawulung called on the Federal Government to look into means of repairing the highways most of which he said were riddled with potholes.

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Source: VANGUARD

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Obi mourns as Labour Party’s Zonal Chairman dies in auto crash

 

The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, is in mourning following the death of one of the party’s Zonal Chairmen in Kaduna State, Mallam Lawal Garba, Afe Mbono, reports.

Garba lost his life in a fatal road car crash along the Kaduna-Zaria road on his way back home from the party’s engagement with Northern stakeholders in Arewa House, Kaduna, on Monday.

In a statement signed by the Chief Spokesman of the Labour Party Presidential Campaign, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, in Abuja, on Tuesday, and made available to our source Vanguard, Obi said,  he was saddened by the news of the sudden death of Mallam Lawal Garba.

Obi was quoted as describing the news of Mallam  Garba’s death, ” just an hour after left us as devastating and shocking .

“He was a great party leader, a great guide and adviser to the Labour Party in the planning and prosecution of the Presidential Campaigns

“My heart goes to the family, the teeming Labour Party members, the Obidients family, the entire people of Tudun Wada and the Kaduna State in general.”

The Elder Stateman had joined other party faithfuls to see off the presidential candidate and his vice, Datti Baba Ahmed, who were returning to Abuja after the engagement at the Arewa House to the Kaduna Airport and was going back home when the accident occurred.

Obi noted that the late party chieftain died a matyr because he lost his life fighting to rescue the Nigerian State from total collapse.

The LP Presidential Candidate prayed for God to grant the late patriarch’s soul eternal rest even as he urged members of the party and the Obidients family to work harder to ensure victory for Labour candidates in the forthcoming general elections so that his death will not be in vain.

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Monday sit-at-home persists in Onitsha as calls for Kanu’s release heighten

 

The weekly Mondays sit-at-home persisted yesterday in the commercial city of Onitsha, Anambra state and its environs as commercial activities remained grounded, despite last Thursday’s discharge of the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra, IPoB, Nnamdi Kanu, by the Court of Appeal.

As usual, offices, businesses, markets and banks were shut, just as vehicular movements were restricted in major highways, streets and urban areas from morning till evening.

The questions on the lips of the residents were whether the federal government not want to obey the court order in releasing Kanu and for what?

Reacting to the development, a private medical practitioner in Onitsha, Dr Boniface Agbala expressed concern that President Muhammadu Buhari who told Igbo leaders point blank shortly after Kanu’s rendition to Nigeria that Kanu should go through court trials, has now chosen to disobey court verdict.

According to Dr Agbala who is also the medical director of Model Hospital and Maternity, Onitsha, the federal government should understand that Kanu’s case has come to a dead end.

“At least, for now, there is no more any charge hanging on Kanu’s neck and as such, the federal government has no option than to release him based on the Appeal Court verdict”.

“I learnt the government is contemplating an appeal at the Supreme Court against the Appeal court verdict but if they try it, the world will then know that they have a vested interest in Kanu’s continued detention and that will invoke United Nations sledgehammer against the Nigerian government. So, whichever way they go about it, the bottom line is to release him at last”.

In its own position, a Pan Igbo Sociocultural Organisation, Ime Obi Igbo enjoined President Muhammadu Buhari to quickly grab the opportunity offered to him by last Thursday’s judgement of the Court of Appeal which discharged Kanu and be Presidential enough by ensuring immediate compliance with the court verdict.

National Chairman of the group,  Dr Mike Ikegulu who stated this yesterday in a press statement via SMS, said Buhari should equally dissuade the Attorney-General of the Federation, AG, Shehu Malami who they described as an overzealous person, from further distortions of the law, thereby bringing Nigeria to international disrepute and public ridicule.

Ime Obi Igbo expressed gratitude to  God Almighty (Chukwu okike) for His Divine intervention in the suit against the IPOB leader, adding, “We felicitate with Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, people of good conscience and lovers of freedom on the appeal court judgement which has just discharged acquitted MNK”.

“The very basis of the appeal is the jurisdiction of Binta Nyako’s court to entertain the charges brought by the FGN”.

“This forum has always posited that MNK has no case to answer based on extant laws. The astute three-man panel of judges of the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal had to abide by the law and not to pander to the executive in a unanimous judgement”, the statement added.

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FG Shortlists 13,000 Civil Servants For 2022 confirmation exams

 

The Federal Government, FG, has disclosed that about 13,000 officers from the core Civil Service, the Nigeria Police; and other Para-military and specialized Agencies will take part in the 2022 confirmation examinations.

The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, OHCSF, also disclosed that it has concluded plans to conduct the 2022 Annual Public Service confirmation examination, nationwide, adding that the examination will be a Computer-Based Test, CBT.

A statement by the Deputy Director of Communications, Mr Mohammed Ahmed, on Monday, said this was part of the ongoing efforts to digitize activities and work processes in the Federal Civil Service.

Ahmed explained that the Combined Confirmation/Promotion Examination (COMPRO) for Junior Staff and the Compulsory Confirmation Examination for Senior Staff are the two Mandatory Confirmation Examinations in the Public Service, including the Police and Para-Military Agencies. “They are not an option but a mandatory requirement.”

The statement reads in part: “Since inception, the examinations have been conducted through manual processes across the 36 States of the Federation and the FCT. All newly recruited officers in the Federal Public Service are required to sit for and pass the examination as a pre-requisite for the confirmation of their appointments.

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TEARS, AS AKWA UBOK ABASI CAMPAIGN COUNCIL HOLDS SERVICE OF SONGS TO HONOUR DEPARTED MEMBERS

 

Tears flowed freely on Saturday, October 15, 2022, when Akwa Ubok Abasi Campaign Council  converged at the OBA Recreational Centre, Uyo,  for a service of songs in honour of its recently departed members. 

Within twenty-four hours, last week, the  group’s Chief of Protocol, Imo Isang and Escort Commander, Inspector Linus Odey were murdered in Imo state by suspected IPOB members; while Robert Albert, younger brother to Senator Bassey Albert, died of kidney complications. 

The service started smoothly as members, dressed in all black, sang with controlled emotion. However, they wept  freely when families of the deceased members were invited to speak. 

As the first son of Imo Isang rendered songs and spoke with surprising composure, the hall broke into tears, especially when he said the father’s death  would signpost victory for OBA in 2023.

Mr Atai Albert, who spoke on behalf of the Albert Akpan’s family, paid glowing tribute to the three departed souls, whom he said he had personal and close relationships.

He described them as “fantastic” persons and prayed God to grant their souls repose.

Apostle Nyeneime Andy, who read from 1 Thessalonians 4:13,15,18 urged all to have hope even in death, and prayed  God for comfort.

He offered special prayers to the Distinguished Senator Bassey Albert Akpan, leaders and members of the campaign council, the families of the deceased.

"When I heard of their departure, I said they have finished their works on earth. If it wasn't time,  God would not have allowed it to happen. But as we pray, we shall not have any experience of death among us", the cleric asserted.

Prophet David Udo Udo, General Overseer of the Apostolic Mount Olive Church, while praying, said that no temptation will stop God from fulfilling His purpose in the life of  Senator Bassey Albert.

"Pilate wrote on Jesus' cross that He was the King of the Jews, and though the enemies tried to  have the tag removed, what was written, was written. What ever they try to do, what was written about Senator Bassey Albert must stand. Nobody can delete what was written about him", he said.

Apostle OtoAbasi Effiong, General Overseer of FULGA, led in prayers against death of members of the campaign organization, while Rev. Felix Abia, General Overseer, Shelter of Grace Arena, led in prayer against violence and attacks during and after the campaigns. Pastor Nnamdi Ikemba and Prophet Eno Etido  prayed for God's sovereignty over campaign of the Akwa Ubok Abasi and all members.

In his condolence message, the chairman of the Akwa Ubok Abasi Campaign Council, Sir Emem Akpabio,  said the past one week was a traumatic one, especially in the life of Senator Bassey Albert who was deeply shocked by the death of the those departed, and assured all that there will be victory at last.

"I want to assure you that the struggles our heroes died for will not be in vain. We have overcome. Come May 29, 2023, the struggles of all of you will not be in vain. We will be victorious, and OBA will emerge the next Governor", he stated.

Sir Akpabio assured all that though faced with such tribulation, the victory of the YPP will heal the wounds of losing the "three departed heroes".

Similarly, the Director-General, Pastor Sunny Ibuot, admonished all to look up to God for help, since He remains the only one to help in times of distress.

He then prayed God to bless those who found time to be at the assembly to honour the departed.

The national financial secretary of the YPP, Ahmed Azeez, in his condolence message, said the news of the deaths was received with shock by all in the party.

He urged the families of the departed to take solace in the fact that there will be victory at the end.

Responding, the YPP governorship candidate in Akwa Ibom state, Obong Bassey Albert (OBA), said the three departed heroes were very close to him and it would be difficult to go on without them.

"Imo left behind four children, Robert left behind four children, and Odey left behind four children. I have now added twelve children to my family", he said, promising that he will not leave any of them behind.

He thanked God for his life as He made it possible for him to survive the shock. "That I am alive today in itself is a testimony. My blood pressure rose to 286 over 140  when I got the news. But now, I thank God, we are stronger than we were last week”, he said.

OBA thanked his party and the people for standing by him in his moment of trial, assuring that salvation will come to Akwa Ibom from May 29, 2023.

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Quality and Affordable Healthcare: Wellahealth launches operations in Akwa Ibom

Leading health-tech start-up, Wellahealth, has launched operations in Akwa Ibom.

This launch aligns with Wellahealth’s commitment to increasing and improving access to quality and affordable healthcare services for Nigerians.

Dignitaries at the event included, The Honourable Commissioner for Health, Represented by Dr Iboro Udoh – Director, Health Planning, Research and Statistics, Akwa Ibom state Ministry of Health, The Commissioner of Local Government and Chieftaincy affairs Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Elder Ini Ikie, The Chairman, Akwa Ibom state Primary Healthcare Development Agency – Dr Martins Akpan, The State Coordinator, National Health Insurance Authority, Akwa Ibom state, Hon. Prof. Elder Ini Udoka – Fmr. House of Representatives Member representing Ini/Ikono Federal Constituency, Pharm Dr Ekpema Abasiattai – The Vice Chairman, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) Akwa Ibom state, Councillors of Ini Local Government, Rev. Richard Edikpo – Member, Board of Directors, Ini Microfinance Bank, Mr Anthony Onuk – CEO, Roothub Ltd, as well as Pharmacists and Wellahealth clients in Uyo.

In his address, The Honorable Commissioner for Health, represented by Dr Iboro Udoh, applauded the startup, pointing out that in addition to providing quality and affordable healthcare service delivery, the venture would also be an avenue for job creation in the state. He also stated that the State Government is happy to partner with Wellahealth to scale the State’s health insurance following the signing of the Health Insurance Act by His Excellency, Gov Udom Emmanuel, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State. The act is intended to improve access to affordable health insurance for residents of the State.

In his speech, the Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Primary healthcare development board, Dr Martins Akpan, commended the Wellahealth team and described the services provided as an idea whose time has come. Describing Health insurance as “the fulcrum on which affordable healthcare can be built”, he explained that the endeavour was timely as it aligns with the State government’s vision. He urged stakeholders to work hand-in-hand with Wellahealth to drive the vision while also assuring the firm support of the State Government.

In her speech, Pharm Dr Ekpema Abasiattai, The Vice Chairman, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) Akwa Ibom Chapter, stated the association’s readiness to partner with Wellahealth to deliver safe and effective medicines that would ensure proper therapeutic outcomes. She also drew attention to the importance of leveraging technology to provide healthcare, pointing out that it would allow for a one-stop location for medicare access.

While addressing the guests, The CEO of Wellahealth, Dr Ikpeme Neto, expressed his joy over the strides to ensure quality and affordable healthcare is readily available to Nigerians. He also appreciated the efforts and partnership of the State Government in ensuring technology is leveraged for massive enrollment, claims management and improvement of access to quality healthcare services for residents.

He stated, “Our goal is to improve access to healthcare services, and we are happy to work with the government in achieving its goal for the state’s health insurance. We are also committed to ensuring that we take every needed step to ensure that these goals are achieved excellently”.

WellaHealth was nominated amongst the 100 most impactful companies in the world in 2022 for its role in providing quality healthcare that starts at less than 700 Naira per month, alongside companies like Elon Musk’s SpaceX. Citizens of Akwa Ibom at the event shared their happiness that WellaHealth has chosen the “Land of Promise” for its operations.

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Mason Greenwood arrested for breaching bail conditions

 

Manchester United and England striker Mason Greenwood has been arrested by police after allegedly breaching his bail conditions.

Greenwood, 21, has not played for United since January after being bailed following his arrest on suspicion of rape, assault and making threats to kill.

Sources at the club confirmed his arrest on Saturday morning after allegations that he has breached the conditions of his bail by contacting the alleged victim.

United will, however, not making any comment on the matter while the police continue with their investigation.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said in a statement to The Sun : “Greater Manchester Police are aware of an allegation regarding a 21-year-old man breaching his bail conditions and an arrest has been made on Saturday 15 October 2022. Enquiries are ongoing at this time.”

Greenwood, who was capped by England in August 2020, is now being held for questioning after being arrested at his Cheshire home.

The 21-year-old was suspended by United after cops launched their investigation into the initial complaint, which was sparked by a social media post making serious allegations.

Greenwood was released on bail on February 2 and has been awaiting his fate ever since.

The Bradford-born forward joined the club’s youth academy at the age of six and was just 17 when he made his first-team debut.

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Just in: BBNaija star, Rico Swavey is dead

 

The duo of BBNaija stars, Alex and Tobi Bakare have confirmed the death of their colleague, Rico Swavey, born Patrick Fakoya, who has been on a life support machines after a motor accident.

In separate tweets, Both Alex and Tobi Bakare confirmed the death. “This is not what we agreed Rico. Rest in peace, Alex tweeted.

Tobi shared a picture of himself and Rico, with the caption: “This is how I will remember you brother.”

After the accident Nigerian entertainers launched a fundraiser for the former housemate of Big Brother Naija, Patrick Fakoya, aka Rico Swavey.

His fellow BBNaija ex-housemate, Tobi Bakre, made the announcement on his Twitter page on Wednesday, as he asked the public for donations.

Sharing a picture of the hospitalised Rico Swavey on his Twitter page, Bakre also noted that the accident victim had been placed on life support.

Bakre tweeted, “Please help save Rico. He had a really bad car accident.

“We have to keep him on life support and continue to pay the rising medical bills while we pray for God’s miracle.

“(We) can’t do it alone. Please click on the link to donate at ricoswavey.com.”

Reality TV star, Alex Asogwa aka Alex Unusual, who had shared the news about the accident on her Twitter page on Tuesday, also called for donations.

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ACCORD Guber Candidate in Akwa Ibom, Engr. Coffie Commiserates OBA over Brother, Staff Death

 

The Governorship Candidate of ACCORD party in Akwa Ibom State, Engr. Emem Coffie, has expressed deep condolences to the Senator representing Uyo Senatorial District at the National Assembly and YPP’s governorship candidate, Obong Bassey Albert (OBA), on the death of his brother and two staff members.

The deceased include OBA’s brother, Robert Albert Akpan, his Personal Assistant, Imo Isang, and orderly, Inspector Odey.

In a condolence message signed by the highly revered and COREN certified Engineer turned politician, Coffie, regretted that he and the entire members of ACCORD received the news with shock and disillusionment.

Part of the message sent to Senator Albert read: "While we were yet to come to terms with the piercing news of the unfortunate passing of your younger brother Robert, the entire state is yet again confounded at the news of the gruesome murder of two of your aides by unknown gun men somewhere in Imo state.

"As humans we cannot help the bewilderment that comes with the phase, but we are also reminded the vanities of life that help draw us even closer to the creator.

"Our prayers are with you, their immediate families and the entire Akwa Ibom State community soaked in this trauma.

"Be strengthened in the hope that beyond here there is life eternal where we will have glorious moments with departed loved ones."

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Atai Uyo Will Never Regret Having Me As Their Representative - YPP Candidate, Obong Ekemini Ukim

 

"I can assure you that the good people of Atai Uyo which is made up of Uyo, Uruan, Ibesikpo Asutan and Nsit Atai Local Government Areas, will never regret choosing me to be their representative at the National Assembly because accountability, transparency and effective representation will be my watchword."

That was the promise made on Monday by the Young Progressives Party (YPP) House of Representatives candidate for Uyo/Uruan/Ibesikpo Asutan/Nsit Atai federal constituency in the 2023 general elections, Obong Ekemini Ukim, while responding to questions from newsmen on State and National issues.

Ukim, who holds the chieftaincy title of 'Utuenikang Ibesikpo Asutan' owing to his innumerable humanitarian services for his people in the areas of education, poverty reduction, healthcare and youth development, emphasized that, the intention to speak for Atai Uyo in the 360-member House of Representatives, is not moved by any egocentric reason, but to offer selfless service through effective and efficient representation and as well attract dividends of democracy to the 4 LGAs.

He said: "I'm going to unveil my blueprint later this month and the great people of Atai Uyo would be able to see what I have in store for the elders, youth, women, students, those learning various skills and of course, the teeming unemployed people.

“Going to the National Assembly is not only about making laws but also engaging in fruitful deliberations to represent the interests of one's constituents; I promise Atai Uyo that Ekemini Ukim will not disappoint them."

'The Street Governor' as he is popularly called by the youth because of his many philanthropic gestures, assured that, by God's grace, he will construct and furnish four constituency offices, one (1) in each Local Government Areas within his 100 days in office.

"I won't be a Representative that will live in Abuja. Abuja will only be where I work. I will make sure that I spend all the weekends with my constituents. By God's grace, I will simplify and demystify the exalted office. Atai Uyo will see the true meaning of people-centric representation in just 3 months," he stated.

Ekemini Ukim, a Petroleum Engineer by profession, used the occasion to advise Akwa Ibomites of voting age who registered for the Permanent Voter's Card (PVC) to visit the INEC headquarters in the State and collect theirs in order not to be disenfranchised.

He assured the people that his party, the YPP has the solution to myriads of problems confronting the State, expressing the hope that their Governorship candidate; Distinguished Senator Bassey Albert (OBA) is the only option if the people want hunger to end in Akwa Ibom.

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Nigeria @ 62: ACCORD Governorship Candidate in Akwa Ibom Assures of Better Future

 

 

Governorship candidate of ACCORD in Akwa Ibom State, Engr. Emem Coffie, has congratulated Nigeria and Nigerians on the occasion of the 62nd independence anniversary of the country.

The COREN certified Engineer in a press release made available to Journalists in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, expressed great hopes for a better future in the years ahead and called for support from Akwa Ibom people.

He said: "I wish to congratulate Nigeria and indeed every Nigerian on the victories of nationhood of the last 62 years.

"We could make the next decade more about human capital development, if we would commit to a popular will (people-oriented plan) incubated in each Local Development Area. 

"We have complained enough and blame all else but ourselves for where we are the whole time. It's time to take our destiny in our hands.

"Let me salute all patriots and our heroes past, whose confidence in a better Nigeria hasn't shrunk despite the debilitating challenges of nationhood.

"My confidence in the youths is unwavering as I look forward to a nation where the youths will commit their all to re-engineering a better governance structure, groom new economies that would birth global business brands in rewards, thereby becoming springs of wealth for us all.

"When the youths are fully involved we will achieve a better Nigeria, and in Akwa Ibom State we are ready to make GAIN - Greater Akwa Ibom Now.

"May the labours of our heroes past not be in vain amen. Yak Inam Utom idúñ."

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